25 Dazzling holiday cottages in Europe that make your jaw drop

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What we talk about in this article

You want a holiday and you want it now!

But where are you going and where will you stay? Europe has tons of cool cities and quirky little towns waiting to be discovered by you. And Europe has some pretty cool natural gems to check out too.

This time, you don’t stay in another “it was a nice” hotel or  “at least it was a clean” apartment. No! This time, you treat yourself to something special!

Take a look at this awesome selection of 25 of the best holiday cottages in Europe that will blow your mind!

Are you new on Airbnb? Don’t forget to get your Airbnb discount!

Crno - Croatia

Discover the epitome of luxury at Villa Evoque, nestled in the serene town of Crno, a stone’s throw away from Zadar. This haven for those who seek opulence caters to 6 guests, offering a modernly designed living space with three elegantly air-conditioned bedrooms, each boasting direct access to the terrace.

The villa features a sophisticated open-plan living area, a kitchen equipped with the latest amenities, a dining area, an inviting outdoor terrace, and a private pool for an exclusive retreat. Situated just a short drive from the pristine beaches and historical marvels of Zadar, including the famed Sea Organ, and with local shops within a 500-meter radius, Villa Evoque is the perfect fusion of luxury and convenience, promising an unforgettable vacation experience for those looking to indulge in luxury or explore the rich tapestry of Zadar.

Peneda-Geres National Park - Portugal

Nestled in Vilarinho do Souto, Ermelo, within Arcos de Valdevez, Casas das Olas is a gateway to the Peneda-Geres National Park (Minho, Portugal). These homes, restored from early 19th-century ruins of ancient dwellings and wineries, offer stunning views over the reservoir dam on the Lima River and access to two swimming pools for ultimate relaxation.

Casas das Olas invites guests to enjoy the pools, wander the lush gardens, explore paths to the waterfront, or discover the local village and its surroundings. Each house also offers board games and plenty of reading space, making it a perfect spot for leisure.

Located at the entrance to Peneda-Geres National Park, it’s an ideal spot for nature activities like trail riding, hiking, boating, and fishing. In the heart of Alto Minho, it’s a great base to explore Portuguese towns, villages, historical sites, and enjoy traditional cuisine and the region’s unique “green” wine.

Panaramic views in Kvam - Norway

Experience luxury at this exclusive Kvamskogen vacation home with an outdoor pool, whirlpool, and sauna for a deluxe retreat. Its design combines elegance with rustic charm for serene relaxation.

This wonderful holiday cottage in Norway features warm interiors, a stunning kitchen, and plush terrace furniture perfect for tranquil evenings. Explore nearby hiking trails, go fishing in mountain lakes, or enjoy skiing in winter. Located near Norheimsund and Øystese on Hardangerfjord, it’s perfect for both peace-seekers and adventurers, offering fjord cruises and easy access to amenities for an unforgettable escape.

Infinity pool near Valencia - Spain

This 3-room apartment near Valencia in Spain is the perfect place to enjoy the sun during your holiday in Europe.

Located just a few kilometers from the beach, this places offers everything you might need. Especially the infinity pool, overlooking the ocean, is a feature most guest are raving about. Keep in mind that access to the infinity pool is shared with other guests in the building. That’s how the price for this holiday unit is still very reasonable for everything else you get with this holiday rental. Furthermore, you can also enjoy the ocean view from the large private terrace.

Private villa in Spain

In this house, nestled at the base of the Tramuntana mountains, you’ll enjoy a truly peaceful and calm vacation. Outside, revel in the beautiful surroundings and stunning views, especially after a refreshing swim in the lovely saltwater pool, which measures 8×4 meters with a depth of 0.8 to 1.8 meters. It’s the perfect spot for sunbathing on sunbeds, listening to birds, or enjoying a drink outdoors. This relaxing setting offers a break from daily life in an extraordinary environment, complete with a barbecue for grilling and a play area for kids to enjoy. There’s also an outdoor bathroom with a bathtub. The property is private and fully fenced.

The rustic-style house spans 100 m² on one floor, featuring wooden beams and traditional, yet comfortable furniture. Inside, there’s a spacious living-dining room with a sofa, satellite TV (German channels only), and a dining table for four by the fireplace. The separate kitchen includes a gas stove, oven, microwave, and electric coffee machine. Amenities like a washing machine, iron, and ironing board are also provided. There are two bedrooms and the house has a bathroom with a bathtub.

Holiday villa in Nice - France

This South facing private villa in Gattières, near Nice, offers everything you and your family might need during a relaxing holiday in Southern France. It has 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and all the amenities one needs in a kitchen. The bathroom is spacious and luxurious.

But what’s even more amazing about this villa, is the outdoor area. There’s a large terrace with seating area overlooking the Mediterranean sea. And of course, there’s a beautiful swimming pool, also overlooking the sea and the lush surroundings of the villa. This is one of these special holiday cottages in Europe where you can find peace and tranquility in the private surroundings of your own holiday home.

Beach house in Denmark

Enjoy the pure stillness of the Danish dunes and beaches in this beach house in Denmark. This wooden holiday house is located on the West coast of Denmark, where you can find kilometres of deserted beaches and dunes. This beautiful house is located in the dunes, just a few metres from the beach and shore.

The house has 3 bedrooms and offers all the amenities you need to have a relaxing holiday and get away from the rat race for a while.

Wellness in Denmark

Want some extra pampering during your holiday to Denmark? Then have a look at this wellness holiday home at the beach in Denmark. This holiday cottage offers the remote beach access, and also a wellness experience included in the privacy of your own house.
This holiday house has 3 bedrooms and all the amenities you might need during your beach holiday. It’s located just a few metres from the ocean. You can actually see the sea from your private terrace. On top those features, you also get a jacuzzi and a sauna.

Drimnin - Scotland

A unique airship with amazing views over the highlands

Stay in this secluded and sustainable airship and reconnect with your loved one while witnessing some of the best sunsets you have ever seen.

This is a place designed to get away from everything and just be.

From the deck, you have amazing views across the Sound of Mull.

A peaceful getaway surrounded by nature might just be what you need.

Locorotondo, Puglia - Italy

Traditional Trullo with modern conveniences

Outside the beautiful town Locorotondo in Puglia you can find this traditional trullo amidst the olive trees.

Sip some wine while overlooking the valley and breath in the fresh air. Explore the surrounding Puglia towns by car or drive to the coast for a day of beach fun.

The trullo is newly renovated and looks absolutely gorgeous.

Santorini - Greece

Stunning cave house carved into the Caldera cliff

This unbelievably marvellous cave house was originally a wine cellar. It is transformed into a  luxurious and cozy home away from home.

On the private terrace, you can sunbathe, dine, or refresh yourself in the plunge pool while you overlook the Aegean Sea.

This dreamy location and the uniqueness of the property makes it very popular so you have to book way ahead.

Ulcinj - Montenegro

River house with large deck to enjoy the sunrise

This fully equipped cabin’s best feature is its large deck at the river.

Ideal for sunbathing, swimming, or savor an aperitif before your dinner.

The Adriatic Sea is very close by so you can enjoy some days at the beach too.

Fantastic restaurants just across the river serve delicious platters at very reasonable prices.

Nättraby - Sweden

Luxurious and romantic stay at a modern Orangery

This little gem in the South of Sweden is located in the midst of nature at a minutes walk to a sandy beach.

It is a unique place in a stunning environment. On the inside of this very comfy and unique home you’ll find all the luxury you need for a pleasant stay. On the outside you can enjoy the surrounding nature straight from your terrace. Take a swim in the natural swimming pond or take outthe aluminium motorboat to go fishing. 

Galway - Ireland

Beautifully renovated 200-year-old church

This 200-year-old renovated church in Ireland is something spectacular.

This place breathes history and has left many guests in awe. It is located 20 minutes from Galway city.

A Day trip to the cliffs of Moher is a must and National Park The Burren is located nearby if you like to go hiking.

Certainly, take a trip to Connemara to explore its breathtaking coastal landscapes

Riva di Solto, Lombardy - Italy

Fabulous lake view from a very comfy apartment

If you’re looking for a room with a view, you just found it!

This Airbnb listing in Lombardy, Italy has an amazing view over the lake.

Located close to one of the picturesque mountain villages in the north of Italy, this is a perfect hub for day trips in the region.

The apartment accommodates up to six people and has multiple bathrooms, a kitchen, and living area. In summer, you can even take a swim in the pool.

Golejow - Poland

Fairytale castle with a sauna

Why not rent an entire fairytale castle in Poland for the price of two potatoes, cause this is one of the best cheap Airbnb rentals in Europe.

This castle can house up to 30 guests and is surrounded by nature.

It is an excellent location for a holiday with a couple of friends or with a family.

You come here to enjoy the romantic atmosphere of the castle and to be outside. Canoes are provided and kayaking trips can be arranged on the nearby river.

After a busy day, you can relax in the sauna.

Cardiff, Wales - UK

Loft apartment in the heart of Cardiff

Explore Cardiff and it surroundings while staying in a chic Loft in the middle of town.

This apartment is modern with a very homely feel and a luxourious touch.

The location couldn’t be better, close to the castle, pubs, restaurants and stores. 

Mosfellsbaer - Iceland

Quiet and secluded lake house with stunning views

 A 40-minute drive from Reykjavik you will find this comfortable home with a lot of wooden accents.

From the deck, you can watch the sunsets or maybe even the Northern Lights if you are that lucky.

The hot tub outside makes this retreat feel more like a spa.

Super location to go hiking to the highest waterfall in Iceland, go horseback riding and swimming in hot water pools.

Zürich - Switzerland

Bubble in Nature

Unique forest getaway nearby the center of Zürich. Stay in a see-through bubble right in the midst of nature on your private domain. 

Get away from the city and enjoy the fresh forest air. Sit outside by the campfire and sleep in a comfortable bed while the stars keep you company. 

Breakfast is included. Great options like massages and yoga lessons available on site. 

 

Vienna - Austria

Modern house with infinity pool overlooking the valley

 This gorgeous and beautifully decorated house is located out of the city center and has everything you could want to make your holiday perfect.

Everything looks really good but the best feature is the heated infinity pool and deck where you overlook the valley.

Public transportation opportunities are close by and well organized so you can easily access tourist attractions in the city center if you like to go sightseeing.

Want to get away from the city? Check out these cozy chalets in the Austrian mountains!

Muonio - Lapland

Lakeside cabin with amazing views

 This log cabin is perfect for a Lapland holiday. It’s cozy, comfortable and well designed.

The lake and forest surrounding the cabin are great for outdoor activities.

You come here to unwind, enjoy nature and maybe even see the Aurora Borealis. There even is a next door old cabin that houses a sauna.

During winter it feels like you are in a magical landscape very close to Santa.

Pesteana, Transylvania - Romania

Back to basic and to nature in a cozy, eco-friendly tree house

 Get back to basics and experience a stay in this cozy tree house in the woods of Transylvania.

Nestled up in a tree surrounded by squirrels you can appreciate the simple things in life while enjoying some amazing panoramic views across the mountains.

With limited amenities for a true back-to-nature experience, this is a perfect choice. Cook your meal outside over a self-made fire and relax in the hammock.

Budapest - Hungary

Modern and stylish downtown studio

Explore the capital of Hungary from this top location. 

This bright, modern and comfortable studio is located in the heart of Budapest. You can find a lot of top attractions at minutes from your doorstep. Public transportation options also close by if you want to explore some more in other districts. 

The studio is modern, Scandi-chique and has a little balcony as well. 

Don’t forget to check out the ruin pubs when you’re there!

 

Tallinn - Estonia

Unique gnome house smack in the middle of the city center

Stay in the smallest house in the old town of Tallinn, built in 1675.

It is very small but the inside will surprise you with its modern and beautiful design.

The living room is quite spacious and the house has 4 floors connected with spiral stairs.

You can explore Tallinn on foot as soon as you step outside you are in the middle of everything.

Berlin - Germany

Cozy and stylish sea lodge near the center of Berlin

This stylishly decorated lodge near the lake is very luxurious and comfortable.

The deck is ideal to catch the last rays of sunlight after a day of sightseeing in Berlin.

A wood stove in the house and on the deck make for long and warm evenings of relaxation.

Perfect place to stay if you want to be close to the center but enjoy the peace and quiet of natural surroundings.

Soca - Slovenia

House surrounded by pure nature

The Julian Alps in Slovenia is a top location for nature lovers.

The surroundings are absolutely stunning and you want to spend all day outside hiking, taking in the breathtaking views of the valley, discovering lakes and following rivers.

Top of your amazing day outside with a bbq on the terrace.

Modra - Slovakia

Quirky, cozy and adorable house up in the trees

Settle in this little gem tucked away up high in the trees.

Get back to nature and leave the wifi behind.

This tree house is elevated almost 6 metres of the ground and has a beautiful terrace where you can enjoy your breakfast.

The area of the Little Carpathians is excellent to do hikes. Perfect and gorgeous place to get that well deserved rest.

What is Airbnb?

Read this article about Airbnb and how to get a discount on your first stay there.

In short:

Airbnb is an online platform which allows people to rent their spare room, apartment, lodge or any other accommodation to travelers for a price they can determine by themselves.

This means hotel regulations don’t really apply and any place can become a part-time hotel.

We are big fans of staying with local families and we use the platform a lot.

We haven’t had any bad experiences so far and have enjoyed the local knowledge of families who live in the destination we visit.

This gives us access to great information about non-touristy sights, transportation and much more.

Before you start traveling Europe

There are a few important things you have to think about when planning your trip

It’s not all fun and games! Take a look at the following points.

Travel insurance

Everyone hopes they never have to use it but you can’t take the risk to start traveling without a good insurance. You never now what can happen. When you are in a foreign country and you get injured or ill, it is best to have all your bases covered. Check out this overview of the best travel insurance for Europeans. See what works best for your specific needs or way of traveling. 

Paying abroad

Getting your money out of an ATM in a foreign country is always a bit exciting. Will it work? But aside from that, it can cost you a lot extra! We were so sick of paying more than 5 Euro’s just to get some cash out of the machine! That’s why we start using travel cards to pay for everything when we are abroad. No more extra charge and good access of money everywhere we go!

What to pack for your trip?

Packing can be a bit of a hassle. What are you going to take with you and how are you going to carry it around? If you love backpacking then we can help you out! Check out this list of things to pack to go backpacking. There is also a printable checklist available in that post.

Good reads for along the way

If you have to spend some time in the airport or bus station (or anywhere else where you need some distraction) a good book can be your perfect companion. Take a look at this extensive list of books to read while traveling.  

 

Conclusion: 25 Dazzling AirBnb Europe listings

Spice up your trip to Europe by staying in one of these cool Airbnb listings.

The setting of these accommodation options will add a little extra flavor to your trip.

Airbnb is bulking with opportunities like these and we can’t deny being big fans of the concept! We never travel without first checking Airbnb.

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Airbnb listings in Europe
Airbnb listings in Europe
Airbnb listings in Europe
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