Checking-in: 10 jaw-dropping & iconic Airbnbs in Europe

Planning on visiting the Old Continent this autumn? Good. I’ve got a few suggestions for you! Holiday apartments are a great way to save money on accommodation and to experience cities like a local – this curated, handpicked selection of dreamy airbnbs in Europe will help you do just that.

Happy travels!

* All images courtesy of Airbnb
** All prices in $CAD

Paris, France

$150 per night

Imagine waking up to this view every morning! Of course, such a privilege comes at a premium; with rates going as high as $650 per night, not just anyone can afford to marvel at the Paris skyline while sipping on their morning café au lait. But it sure is an unforgettable experience!

Wigtown, Scotland

$55 per night

Bookworms of the world, rejoice: this amazing Airbnb features not only a flat but most importantly the first ever bookshop holiday/residency experience at The Open Book, a charming bookshop in the heart of Scotland’s National Book Town, Wigtown. Meet fellow book lovers and learn everything there is to know about Scottish literature with the help of friendly locals.

Alps, France

$191 per night

Whether you’re in it for the ski or the après-ski, this beautiful luxury chalet in the French Alps (just a few kilometres from a ski resort) features an unusually high cathedral ceiling as well as a wood-burning fireplace – the perfect backdrop for a well-deserved cheese fondue. When in Rome, right?

Sognefjord, Norway

$150 per night

This old thing? Just a fabulous cabin by one of Norway’s most famous fjords. Perfect for hikers and boat enthusiasts – as for me, I will just enjoy a chilled glass of white wine on that lovely waterfront terrace, thank you very much.

Akureyri, Iceland

$149 per night

Experience this ultra-modern, bold villas in the tranquil village of Akureyri in Northern Iceland, with nature at your doorstep. This is an excellent option year round, as you can both enjoy the midnight sun in the summertime as well as the aurora borealis in the wintertime – as you know, Iceland is always a good idea.

Santorini, Greece

$195 per night

I’ve said it repeatedly: whatever you do in Santorini, spend the night. Even though the island is gorgeous at any time of the day, it can be hard to navigate its narrow cobblestone streets in the daytime with the thousands of tourists on a day cruise. The island is much quieter, and therefore much more enjoyable, in the evening. This traditional cave house, with unobstructed views of the caldera, is a great option.

Skye, Scotland

$118 per night

A luxury self-catering studio for two on the edge of a bird sanctuary with stunning views of Beinn na Caillich mountain, this bijou Airbnb is close to many Skye attractions as well as a number of shops. The power shower, the cosy fireplace as well as the downright idyllic setting make it a top accommodation of the Isle of Skye. I stayed there myself and had a wonderful time; Fiona is a lovely host.

Cinque Terre, Italy

$128 per night

Quite possibly the best balcony in Italy! The apartment is small but frankly this is not the main selling point here, as the romantic terrace overlooks the village of Corniglia in Italy’s legendary Cinque Terre.

Galway, Ireland

$150 per night

Experience life in a 200-year old restored church just a few minutes from lively Galway, on the scenic western coast of Ireland. Although the church is equipped with every modern amenity, it’s also kept many of its original features – definitely an unforgettable, unique adventure!

Lidingö, Sweden

$140 per night

The writer in me constantly fantasies about booking a self-imposed retreat at this idyllic and cozy little house in the Swedish countryside. It’s far enough to feel isolated and yet it’s a quick ferry ride to central Stockholm. Can I just move in already?