14 Amazing Destinations Where Airbnb Beats Hotel Prices
Guests would surely appreciate upgrading from a confined hotel room to a chic apartment or villa while saving money. Airbnb offers budget travelers and adventure seekers new ways to experience the world while saving money. AirDNA reveals that major city Airbnb listings provide up to 40% savings compared to hotel prices, particularly for extended stays or group travel arrangements.
The number of Airbnb listings worldwide stands at 6.6 million and shows no signs of declining growth anytime soon. Millennials who travel and nomadic individuals who prioritize comfort without compromising affordability will find this development particularly beneficial.
Find 14 amazing locations where Airbnb bookings provide extra space, authentic local experiences, and substantial savings. We’ll explain the financial details, provide real-world stories, and offer actionable strategies for unforgettable, affordable travel experiences.
Istanbul, Turkey
Istanbul is a dynamic meeting point between Eastern and Western cultures, providing outstanding value for Airbnb users. When travelers choose Airbnb in Istanbul, they experience a 61.77% cost reduction per night, from $118.69 in hotel rates to $45.37 in Airbnb expenses.
More money remains available for extravagant morning meals (honeycomb and olives) or buying sprees in the Grand Bazaar. Airbnbs in historic areas provide distinctive accommodations with rooftop views of the Bosphorus and proximity to lively night markets. Local hosts frequently offer apartments featuring a distinct character and contemporary amenities, complete with hotel-quality WiFi.
Istanbul’s Airbnb options provide the perfect travel solution for travelers who prefer unique architectural styles and convenient locations. Reserve accommodations early to take advantage of lower prices during spring and fall, as demand typically peaks.
Athens, Greece
Athens is where ancient meets affordable! An Airbnb stay in this area will cost you approximately $69.67 per night, a 50% discount compared to the average hotel pricing of $138.05. Athens appeals to people who enjoy vibrant street scenes, as Airbnb positions guests in popular locations, such as Plaka’s narrow passages and the modern Koukaki district.
Kitchens here allow you to prepare meals seasoned with olive oil, while balconies offer breathtaking views of the Acropolis sunset. Hosts provide insider information about local culture and food, which appeals to travelers who want to maximize their budgets through authentic Greek experiences. By stretching your euros, you could extend your stay and fully understand the distinction between ouzo and tsipouro.
Lisbon, Portugal
Travelers with additional funds will find Lisbon’s hills, trams, and Pastel de Nata even more enjoyable. The typical Airbnb costs $107.51 per night, significantly lower than the average hotel price of $210.30. A 49% price difference exists between Airbnb and hotel stays, providing extra funds for a night in Bairro Alto or a spontaneous day trip to Sintra.
Lisbon’s Airbnb options include quirky attic studios and elegant apartments with azulejo tiles. Most of them have kitchenettes suitable for making midnight snacks or cooking fresh fish purchased from Mercado da Ribeira. Securing a reservation for several nights can help you obtain additional discounts from your hosts, further enhancing your savings.
Berlin, Germany
Berlin is Europe’s coolest playground and one of the best places in the world for Airbnb deals. The cost savings on nightly stays surpass $100 when booking a fashionable flat in Kreuzberg or Prenzlauer Berg, which is cheaper than budget hotels. Short-term rentals in Berlin often feature unique amenities, such as bike rentals and record players, which appeal to artistic individuals.
Spend your days browsing flea markets and nights at underground clubs before returning to a rented space that resembles a friend’s temporary lodging better than a hotel room. Look for properties with the “Superhost” status to receive superior hospitality and a unique welcome experience.
Paris, France
Paris stands as the city of lights but suffers from exorbitant hotel prices. Airbnb offers typical nightly rates at $126, which significantly differs from the $268 hotels charge. By staying at Airbnb, you save around $111 per night, which enables you to enjoy a wine-and-cheese dinner by the Seine.
Every arrondissement offers beautifully decorated spaces for art lovers and romantics, from Montmartre’s quaint attic studios to airy lofts near the Marais. Airbnb hosts in Paris offer guests local bakery recommendations, maps, and complimentary wine bottles. Look for rental options that feature balconies or direct garden entry because they provide ideal spots for scenic picnics.
Boston, Massachusetts, USA
Boston combines historic landmarks with modern developments, offering substantial savings for Airbnb travelers. The nightly cost for hotel accommodations averages $397 compared to $172 for Airbnb stays, making hotels 131% more expensive. Beacon Hill and Back Bay provide walkable areas with beautiful brownstone homes and vibrant apartment options.
This home offers a complete kitchen and ample living room space, ideal for escaping Boston’s harsh winters and preparing clam chowder after attending a Red Sox game. Always ask about parking, as Boston hotel garages typically have high fees.
Kruger National Park, South Africa
Visiting Kruger National Park for safari adventures is an affordable option. An average Airbnb costs $149 per night compared to $814 at a hotel, which means you save almost 450%. Guests at unique lodges, bush chalets, and modern safari tents find kitchens, wildlife-viewing decks, and private plunge pools.
Local guides partner with many hosts to provide straightforward and budget-friendly morning game drive bookings. Tip: Secure your travel arrangements in advance during the dry season and inquire about package deals from your host that include guided tours.
Bora Bora, French Polynesia
Luxury seekers, rejoice! While staying at a Bora Bora hotel will cost you around $904 each night, you can find Airbnb prices at a more budget-friendly $269. The 237% price gap between Airbnb and hotel rates allows travelers to afford additional snorkeling excursions or a romantic meal with lagoon views.
Guests at Bora Bora can enjoy private overwater bungalows and beachfront cottages, often receiving complimentary kayaks or paddleboards from their hosts. Opt for accommodations from a “Superhost” and review airport transfer services to ensure a seamless island arrival.
Paro, Bhutan
Airbnb lets travelers experience Bhutan’s beauty at a fraction of the cost. A room costs just $50 per night, while hotels charge $158, making it 213% cheaper. When locals manage most of the listings, guests receive genuine hospitality alongside recommendations for temples, dzongs, and hiking trails.
Guests enjoy home-cooked meals from the hosts alongside traditional Bhutanese elements such as hand-painted decorations and balconies adorned with prayer flags. Hosts who provide guided tours should be considered since they can significantly enhance your cultural experience.
Zion National Park, Utah, USA
For outdoor enthusiasts, Zion is paradise. Airbnb accommodations near the park remain affordable compared to soaring hotel prices, allowing travelers to allocate more funds to gear rentals and stargazing expeditions. A short drive from trailheads reveals comfortable cabins, vintage Airstreams, and environmentally friendly lodges.
Airbnb listings near the park feature fire pits for outdoor cooking and s’mores kits. They also accommodate late arrivals from Vegas with special check-in times. Book your spring or fall travel early to access the best locations and prevent peak-season price increases.
Leipzig, Germany
Leipzig is Germany’s top Airbnb destination, providing accommodations starting at only £31.40 per night. This deal offers one of the most affordable alternatives to traditional hotels across Western Europe. Budget travelers seeking authentic German experiences outside Berlin should consider visiting the city due to its vibrant art and music scene.
Many Airbnb accommodations are in central locations, featuring unique elements such as exposed brick walls and industrial loft spaces. Extended stays bring special discounts and local advice for budget-friendly dining and nightlife options.
Kraków, Poland
The Polish city of Kraków offers budget travelers affordable accommodations through Airbnb, which costs an average of £30.65 per night. Hostels in some Western cities provide accommodation for a night in the Old Town center or near the Kazimierz district. Numerous listings feature long-term discounts that reduce costs for extended Eurail journeys.
You can look forward to receiving complimentary bikes and daily market suggestions while also enjoying the well-known Polish breakfasts that your host may recommend.
Tbilisi, Georgia
European travelers increasingly discover Tbilisi as a rising star destination, and its average Airbnb rate is an astonishing £23.60 per night. The low prices of accommodations make it impossible to justify leaving without enjoying additional sultry nights. Instead of staying at a generic hotel, choose between historic old-town houses and chic studios by the city’s famous sulfur baths.
Hosts often provide airport transfers and complimentary breakfast options. This location offers ideal conditions for digital nomads seeking fast Wi-Fi, a unique character, and great value.
Gran Canaria, Spain
Gran Canaria attracts visitors to its southern location with beautiful sunshine and beaches, while offering some of Spain’s most affordable Airbnb options at £45.60 per night. Guests will find canary-yellow cottages, seaside apartments, and modern complexes with pool access.
Numerous rental properties near beaches and national parks offer an ideal blend of natural surroundings and vibrant nightlife. Find hosts with outstanding reviews to get local suggestions on the best tapas, restaurants, and secret hiking paths. Book a week-long stay to enjoy lower nightly rates.
Disclaimer – This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information. It is not intended to be professional advice.
You Might Also Like:
10 Greatest Travel Apps To Help You Save Money: Travel apps are essential for travelers who want to maximize their experiences while saving money. These innovative travel applications have revolutionized how we plan, book, and experience travel. Here are ten such travel apps.