A travel destination is especially rewarding when it becomes your home away from home, and Airbnb offers a variety of residences that have the personal touches to make you feel at home. The San Francisco-based company runs a marketplace with listings in 191 countries around the world.
Airbnb has more listings than the top five major hotel companies combined, making it the largest hotel chain the world; except that it's not a hotel chain but a marketplace where hosts list properties for nightly, weekly, or monthly rentals. Every property has its own features and rules. Some are rooms within family homes, while others are cottages, castles, tree houses, or even shipping containers. Budgets range from $10 per night to $11,658 a night for a luxurious villa in Tuscany. You'll also find every price in between, and in most cases, you can rent a private room or residence for less than the cost of a decent hotel in the same city.
But what we really love about Airbnb is the unique variety of choices. Want to sleep in a bubble? How about a train carriage or a house shaped like a beagle? We found all three. And you won't believe the surprise that tops our list.
30 A Pyramid Summer House In Iceland - $350/night
These pyramids aren't in Egypt. They're near Laugarvatn, Iceland. The huge glass windows provide picturesque views of the Icelandic landscape. Staying in this luxury summer house is also a win for the environment since the house is heated with geothermal water and the electricity is generated by geothermal energy. It has two bedrooms with queen-size beds perfect for couples and a third smaller room. Nearby, you'll find a grocery store, pool, restaurant, golf course, and even horseback riding. At $350 per night, this summer house certainly provides a unique luxury vacation for visitors.
29 An Earthship In New Mexico - $125/night
Another eco-friendly gem, this Earthship catches its own rain water and generates its own electricity while staying at a consistent 72 degrees year-round. While the location is totally off the grid in Taos, New Mexico, it includes tons of modern amenities, from Netflix on a flat screen to a luxurious soaking tub to a high-efficiency washing machine. This exceptional house was built by the host over the last three years, and the interior decor is simple yet elegant. This is the perfect spot for the traveler who wants to get away and unplug without losing the comforts of home. And at only $125/night, it's totally affordable.
28 A Converted Shipping Container In The Netherlands - $58/night
This converted shipping container is also the Inkijkmuseum, a contemporary art museum filled with tiny works of art. Located in Eindhoven, Netherlands, this private room is in a great location close to transportation, restaurants, bars, shopping, and a music center. The host insists that the museum "is a phenomenal small place focused on unexpected meetings. Feel welcome." This friendly residence has a shared bathroom and kitchen, but at only $58 per night, it makes for a budget vacation.
27 A Fisherman’s Cave In Greece - $342/night
This restored fisherman's cave is located on the Caldera cliff in Oia Village, Greece. This home isn't just comfortable; it's downright luxurious. It accommodates up to five guests with 2 separate bedrooms and a couch bed and features a private outdoor jacuzzi with sunset views. Many restaurants, bars, and taverns are located within walking distance, but the lake views in this residence are so breathtaking that you may never want to leave your private patio. The interior is cozy as well, with neutral-colored linens and decorative touches. At $342 per night, this is the luxury vacation you've been waiting for.
26 A Windmill In England - $232/night
Located in rural Kent, England, this converted windmill provides a romantic setting surrounded by the countryside. It stands out with its 18-inch brick walls and oak-exterior staircase. The lovely outdoor space is perfect for sunbathing, while the king-sized bed with crisp white linens offers a comfortable place to unwind. When you visit this unique rental in England, you'll be greeted with a welcome basket, which will include organic eggs from the owners' chickens. The host says of this treasure: "Guests have said how hard it is to tear themselves away." At $232 per night, this windmill provides the perfect romantic getaway for a couple looking for an out-of-the-ordinary vacation.
25 A Glass Treehouse In Florence - $290/night
Immerse yourself in the Tuscan landscape dotted with olive trees when you stay in this glass tree house. This romantic residence features a fireplace, a queen-sized bed, a kitchenette, and a private outdoor terrace with jaw-dropping views. You'll find a chalkboard wall in the bedroom in addition to unique light fixtures and floor-to-ceiling windows. CasaBARTHEL also has tennis court and small swimming pool on the property. This might be the perfect place for an artist residency, but at $290 per night, it's also an ideal luxury vacation spot.
24 An Indoor Forest In Australia - $144/night
This flat in Melbourne, Australia is designed to look like an indoor forest in the middle of a bustling city. It's decorated with climbing vines, shaggy green carpeting, and numerous plants. You can watch TV from the hanging egg chair and sleep in a bedroom with cloud-painted walls and fairy lights. The bathroom even has a wall covered in lush greenery. This apartment was also inspected and verified for quality and comfort as part of the new Airbnb Plus program. At around $144 per night, it's also reasonably priced for the budget traveler.
23 A Glass House In India - $59/night
This beautiful lake view room in New Delhi, India is filled with photo opportunities. You'll be able to take in gorgeous views of the wilderness while residing at the heart of the city. Explore historical architecture, busy markets, temples, museums, and more in surrounding New Delhi. Previous guests rave about the location, check-in process, and cleanliness of the residence. The friendly host lives in the same apartment and is available to assist you with your travel needs. The rate is only $59 per night and includes the private room and a basic breakfast.
22 A Trullo In Italy - $209/night
Relax in the hammock outside this ancient trullo in Ostuni, Italy and take in the views of the countryside. Or maybe take a dip in the crystalline sea or barbeque under the gazebo. This beautiful property is also environment-friendly, as solar power is used for hot water and waste water is reused. Outside, you'll find 110 olive trees among walnuts, figs, cherries, applies, pears, and mulberry trees. Produce from the land is available for you to enjoy while staying at the property. This ancient abode has all the comforts of home, including free WiFi, and is close to a whitewashed old town that is definitely worth exploring. You can enjoy this private residence for $209 per night.
21 A Rainbow Art Project In Brazil - $43/night
Cabana Floripa offers 360-degree views of the mountain territory through its artfully-designed glass walls. Although this residence is part of a condominium, it has its own private entrance, kitchen, and bathroom and has the capacity for 5 guests. The colorful stained glass and recycled glass bottles make this cabana look like a rainbow sculpture. The host notes, "This place is full of magic. If you are interested in recycling, nature, and art, this is the right house for you." Located in Santa Catarina, Brazil, you'll be in the center of three beaches, with countless outdoor activities nearby. And at $43 per night, this is one of the most affordable rentals on our list.
20 A Restored Palazzo In Italy - $504/night
This restored 14th-century palazzo is connected to underground caves and a Roman water cistern. You can dine al fresco underneath the gazebo while enjoying the views of the cliff garden or take a dip in the heated pool and jacuzzi inside an ancient cave. This Italian gem is located in Civita, a hill town that appears to be made of gold and silver. This residence can be rented for $504 per night, but includes three suites with private baths, making it the perfect choice for a group of singles or couples. It also has a private wine cellar, modern appliances, a formal garden, and maid service to provide you with a comfortable stay.
19 A Wild West Nest In California - $130/night
This love nest is a private room above a barn with a private deck. It has an outside shower overlooking Mt. Sanjacinto and a claw foot tub inside. This serene desert getaway is located in Morongo Valley, California, where you can see a million stars at night and take in nature views during the day. You can grab a complimentary drink in the Saloon, relax on the outdoor swing, or play pool or horse shoes. The variety of wildlife provides plenty of photo opportunities, and Joshua Tree National Park is just a short drive away. You can even enjoy massages or facials during your stay. At $130 per night, this is the most luxurious western-themed abode we've seen.
18 A House of Mirrors In Pittsburgh - $165/night
This artist's house and studio in the Pittsburgh area has an exterior that is entirely covered with mirrors, reflecting the surrounding nature. The mirror theme continues into the house's interior, along with many original works of art and unique furnishings. The space will make you feel like you're inside a fun house that has been totally decked out. The guest bedroom has a private entrance, a plasma TV, free WiFi, a sunken tub, and a walk-in shower. We love the fish tanks and unique dining room table that sits underneath decorative chandeliers. This unique mirrored house can be rented for just $165 per night.
17 A Cocoon In France - $116/night
You can live like a butterfly in one of these cocoon-like nests perched in the treetops. Access your cozy bed by climbing up the climbing nets and then use the net as a hammock to rest among nature. Two cabins in the same forest have bathrooms, living rooms, and books and board games for borrowing. There is even a collective kitchen for preparing meals, as well as a swimming pool. This unique residence is located just an hour away from Paris and 20 minutes from the castles of the Loire. So if you decide to leave this forest paradise, there's plenty to see and do. And at $116 per night, it's more affordable than a hotel.
16 A Dome In Joshua Tree - $140/night
This geodesic dome house is as adorable on the inside as it is stunning from afar. Located in Joshua Tree, California, it's nearby Joshua Tree National Park, where you can explore wildlife and nature on the hiking trails. This residence was designed to be an escape from the city, making it the perfect secluded getaway. Inside, you'll find modern bohemian decor with many handcrafted personal touches. The dome has a full kitchen, a natural wood-burning stove, and a memory foam king-size bed you can relax in at the end of a long hike. This unique home has received a ton of press and will undoubtedly provide a magical vacation at just $140 per night.
15 An Outdoor Paradise In Costa Rica - $125/night
This tropical wooden house sits on four acres of private land in Atenas, Costa Rica. It features a unique bathroom with walls made from black lava rock, a stone shower stall, and a large wooden bathtub. The property is filled with fruit trees and is perfect for bird watching. This house sits above a man-made lake with plenty of outdoor areas to enjoy the views of the gardens. The ideal place to decompress, this tropical paradise goes for just $125 per night.
14 A Frank Lloyd Wright House In Wisconsin - $450/night
You may have toured a Frank Lloyd Wright building in the past, but actually staying inside one of the famous architects' designs is another story entirely. The 4-bedroom Bernard Schwartz House boasts a 63-foot living room with a library and magnificent design features throughout. You can watch birds land on the dock on the river in this historic fishing town, get a fire going in one of the residence's two fireplaces, or play yard games on the large lawn. This historic property can be rented for $450 per night but has a six-person occupancy, making it the perfect getaway for a group of architecture enthusiasts.
13 A Bamboo Cottage In Indonesia - $65/night
Located in Ubud, Bali, this bamboo cottage is tucked away in the rice fields but only a short walk away central Ubud. Breathe fresh air in the open-air basket weave bedroom or lounge around in the outdoor living area. It's practically like sleeping outdoors, but with modern amenities to sweeten the deal. The best part is that this guest cottage offers a complete menu of traditional Balinese meals prepared from fresh organic ingredients. Breakfast is served on the patio with a view of the lush greenery. And, if you can believe it, this house rents for only $65 per night.
12 A Houseboat In Copenhagen - $151/night
Ever wanted to sleep on a boat without losing the comforts of home? This modern houseboat overlooks a small harbor in Copenhagen, Denmark. We love the modern furniture and decor, the floor-to-ceiling windows, and the two verandas where you can catch plenty of rays. The location is just 15 minutes from downtown via water bus, and a five-minute commute gets you to magnificent nature areas. You can even go for a swim directly from the boat. The water is clean, pristine, and perfect for jumping in straight off the deck. You can stay in this dream houseboat for $151 per night.
11 A Container Home In Spain - $133/night
Located in Palma de Mallorca, this unique house is constructed of container modules and is just a 15-minute walk away from the historic center of Palma. It's also conveniently located near public transportation yet provides plenty of peace and quiet. You can even rent bicycles or motorcycles to get around town, and you'll find a convenient spot to keep them outside the residence. A gorgeous terrace features a small swimming pool and barbecue, and the interior is decked out in modern decor with bright pops of color and wall art. This Spanish paradise goes for only $133 per night.