15 best Airbnbs in Italy – from Puglia to the Dolomites
Thanks to elaborate, star-studded weddings (ahem) – and no shortage of big screen moments giving the country the limelight it deserves – the number of travellers searching for Airbnbs in Italy this summer is burgeoning. In fact, half of Airbnb's top ten most-searched-for destinations for summer trips this year have been in the Bel Paese… just not in the areas you may have first imagined.
The tourist trail is shifting – and new Airbnb data shows that the sun-seekers among us are moving away from tourist failsafes; instead seeking out the peace and tranquility served by Italy's undiscovered, hidden gems.
I'm on board: there's no better way to root yourself in the soul and charm of your chosen Italian destination – really feeling as though you live there – than to ditch a predictable hotel in favour of a characterful home. And Italy boasts no shortage of splendid holiday rentals to help you soak up La Dolce Vita just as the locals do.
From waterfront apartments with undisturbed sunset views, to 17th-century barns 1500 meters above sea level, unfussy cottages and spectacular estates sat in the heart of fragrant olive groves, the best Airbnbs in Italy are spaces from which you can make yourself at home, spend hours at breakfast and sip wine under the stars. And yes, there is still time to jet away this summer.
Ahead, our round-up of the very best Airbnbs in Italy for your upcoming visit.
The Casina
- Location: Sovicille.
- Sleeps: 4 guests.
Why we love it: This one bedroom, one bathroom villa is the perfect luxury retreat for couples in Tuscany – where the star of the show is a modern glass pavilion which looks out onto unspoiled Tuscan countryside. Explore Siena – which is less than 15 minutes away by car – before taking a dip in the oxygen-cleaned infinity pool nestled among an olive grove. Evenings will be spent toasting to pastures new in the hot tub, before cooking alfresco under the pergola. Sore head in the morning? The property even boasts a steam room to sweat out the remnants of Italian wine.
Villa dei Barili
- Location: Forio, Campania, Italy.
- Sleeps: 2.
Why we love it: Another perfect retreat for couples, this sweet apartment is part of Borgo Corbaro – a farm where tradition meets wellbeing and tranquility. The outdoor space is spectacular here, where luscious gardens overlook Forio, and outdoor pools boast spectacular ocean views. What's more, the hosts can organise outdoor massages, wine tastings, private chefs and countless other experiences during your stay.
Che Bello Trullo
- Location: Puglia.
- Sleeps: 8.
Why we love it: An estate made for your girly Euro Summer, this villa in Ceglie Messapica is contemporary and thoughtfully-designed. The outdoor space is plentiful, with a saltwater pool, patio and separate back garden strung with hammocks and dotted with a ping-pong table. The modern extension flows seamlessly into the photogenic, restored trulli – and inside, floor-to-ceiling windows flood the complex with light. It’s only a short drive to dining in the town of Ceglie Messapica, too.
Casa M 101
- Location: Fantese.
- Sleeps: 6.
Why we love it: There are two modern bedrooms in this peaceful property, which is set in the Ostuni countryside and set among olive groves and rolling fields. The terrace is wrapped in trees, and fine interiors have been artfully-chosen to marry old with new. The beautiful towns or Cisternino and Martina Franca are each just short drives away, and the floor-to-ceiling glass windows on the living spaces ensure the transition from inside to outdoors is seamless.
Tabià Dora Chalet
- Location: Rocca Pietore.
- Sleeps: 6.
Why we love it: After something a little more rustic? This barn dates back to the early 20th century – where half has preserved its original structure and been transformed into a charming, homely place to stay. The chalet is spread across four floors: an attic, living room and kitchen area, panoramic terrace and first floor with rooms – and the large windows serve far-reaching views of the surrounding mountains. Outside, there is a private lawn with terrace for al fresco breakfasts and lunches – as well as a gas BBQ.
Luxury Diamond in the Hills-Private Pool & Jacuzzi
- Location: Serravalle Pistoiese.
- Sleeps: 14.
Why we love it: Italy's answer to the Love Island villa, Villa La Fonte is an exclusive retreat hidden in the heart of the Tuscan hills – where rustic charm meets contemporary luxury. It's the perfect place from which to switch off and regenerate, while connecting with nature and the local way of life.
It's sizeable – the property spans over 500 square meters and is surrounded by 18,000 square meters of land. You're only a few kilometres away from the historical centres of Florence, Pisa and Lucca – but if you don't want to venture far at all, the seven double suites, outdoor living area, hot tub, fire pit and swimming pool will keep you well-entertained.
Cesa del Panigas The Nest
- Location: Rocca Pietore.
- Sleeps: 4.
Why we love it: There are few Airbnbs in Italy more unique than this one: an attic hidden inside a 17th-century barn at 1,500 meters above sea level. Overlooking the mountains, it was recently renovated (in 2023) with ancient woods and local stones; it now boasts a fully-equipped kitchen, fireplace-clad living room and beautiful bathroom. It's perfect for couples, or two adults and two children. Note: it's too small to house four adults.
Casa A Corte
- Location: Nardò.
- Sleeps: 10 guests.
Why we love it: The region of Puglia has been burgeoning in popularity for the past few years, with the historical center of Nardò, Puglia one of our favourite spots. This charming and built-for-friends Airbnb is located in said historical centre, and only 10 minutes away from Santa Maria al Bagno and Santa Caterina. Book for turquoise seas, wonderful food, charming people, serenity and sandy beaches.
Casa Giada - The Ultimate Escape into Quiet Luxury
- Location: Spongano.
- Sleeps: 8.
Why we love it: With farmhouse-inspired interiors – where playful artwork, colourful tapestries and rustic original features bring the space to life – and modern comforts, this stunning rural home is the perfect spot for a getaway in Puglia. It's set amidst two hectares of olive-tree-dotted land, with three en-suits bedrooms, a separate master suite overlooking a spacious pool, and a terrace complete with BBQ and pizza oven. For groups of friends looking for a relaxing and stylish holiday home, this is everything.
Cilento Paestum
- Location: Giungano.
- Sleeps: 28.
Why we love it: Hang on, perhaps this is Italy's answer to the Love Island villa: a spectacular property housing up to 28 people across 10 bedrooms. It's located in the Cilento National Park, an UNESCO heritage site, in a small town called Giungano in the province of Salerno. Beaches are just a few miles away, and south-facing gardens serve views towards Capri and the Amalfi Coast.
Apartment with Terrace & Spectacular Sea Views
- Location: Conca dei Marini.
- Sleeps: 2.
Why we love it: Views of the Amalfi Coast don't get much more impressive than this. This traditional, well-furnished apartment might not be the most modern place you've ever stayed – but the spectacular views across the coast (from the private terrace, decked out with armchairs, barbecue and outdoor shower) make it more than worth your while.
Sea View Design Charming Salerno Space
- Location: Salerno.
- Sleeps: 3.
Why we love it: An incredibly-stylish loft space in Salerno's Old Town – between the ancient Duomo and the Garden of Minerva – this open-plan property has been restored to protect and enhance all original features. It is set within an ancient Convent, boasting stone walls which date back to the 17th century, spectacularly-high ceilings, and views across the roofs of the Old Town towards the sea of the Amalfi Coast.
Villa Bellavista in Teverina With Pool
- Location: Castiglione, Teverina.
- Sleeps: 4.
Why we love it: A stylish space for family holidays, Villa Bellavista is set 10 miles from Duomo Orvieto and five miles from Cività di Bagnoregio. It boasts a private pool and modern luxuries including free Wifi and a full-equipped kitchen. There is parking, an open-plan kitchen-dining space which opens up onto the property's terrace, and a shaded patio for al fresco dinners, breakfasts and lunches.
Tellaro, La Torre By The Sea
- Location: Tellaro.
- Sleeps: 2 guests.
Why we love it: I stopped scrolling immediately when I came across this Italian Airbnb. It's not easy to find a property so romantic and full of history – but this loft, build into a cliff – serves surprises at every corner. Your approach will have you mesmerised: the yellow and burnt-orange tower house, approached from the corner of a historical square, is mesmerising – and inside, the home has been recently renovated with countless modern comforts. There's an ancient fireplace in the property's entrance, a modern kitchen, and beautiful bathroom which has been artfully decorated with small beach stones. The bedrooms are cosy, and the ocean views provide respite from an otherwise busy life.
Beach House With Private Condominium Beach
- Location: Faro.
- Sleeps: 2 guests.
Why we love it: This gorgeous beach house is located inside the Circeo National Park, where the pièce de résistance is a small, private beach located just 70 steps from the front door of the house. The sunsets here are epic, and there's nothing more peaceful than setting yourself up on a sun bed for the day – nothing to do except admire views of the Pontine Islands.
Suite Santa Maria - L'Opera Dell 'Architetto
- Location: Matera.
- Sleeps: 4.
Why we love it: If your Airbnb must be modern, your bathroom candle-lit and spa-like, your terrace big enough for just two, and your views of an impressive canyon rather than the sea, we've found you the perfect Italian Airbnb from which to escape. This property, a wonderful suite, is located in the heart of the Sassi of Matera, just a few steps from the striking 13th-century Romanesque-Pugliese-style Cathedral.
Discover more in Italy
- Discover the best hotels in Puglia
- The best hotels on the Amalfi Coast for a taste of La Dolce Vita
- 17 best hotels in Rome for a European city break
- Best hotels in Sicily, according to a travel editor
