Why settle for an ordinary trip at a boring hotel when you could book one of the most unique Airbnbs in the world? These destinations deliver on comfort and design, with unusual touches that you won’t find anywhere else in the world.
1. Treehouse in Nago, Japan
Who hasn’t dreamt of staying in their childhood fantasy of the perfect treehouse? Located deep in the Japanese wilderness, this treehouse combines modern design with gorgeous nature views and can fit six people. There are ample windows, allowing the sunlight and view to come through, plus a nearby waterfall and plentiful foraging experiences. Glamping, but better!
2. Birdbox in Gaular, Norway
With a brutalist design that will take your breath away, this Airbnb is for adventurous people who don’t mind going off-grid and putting in a little work to get here. You’ll need to drive to a ski resort and then hike 45 minutes to get here. Aesthetically, it’s one of the coolest homes we’ve ever seen, with a lounge that lets you soak in the surrounding fjord.
3. Quetzalcoatl’s Nest in Naucalpan de Juárez, Mexico
Is it an Airbnb or a living piece of art? Created by famed architect Javier Senosiain, this apartment complex is part of a fascinating sculpture garden that looks like a slithering serpent. Located 14 miles outside Mexico City, it’s designed so that humanity yields to nature, and this is even reflected in the interiors with soft, organic shapes inspired by the natural world.
4. Adobe Dome in Terlingua, Texas
This solar-powered adobe dome is completely one-of-a-kind, remote, and off-grid, with shoutouts in shows like “Might Tiny Houses.” It’s about a half-hour drive to Big Bend National Park and is the perfect location for peaceful stargazing and those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.
5. Windmill in Abcoude, Netherlands
The Netherlands is famous for its windmills, but rather than sightseeing, why not take things up a notch and stay in an old windmill, located in sprawling green fields along a meandering river? Guests get the entire place, which houses six people, to themselves. One reviewer notes there are also sheep and goats on the other side of the fence, for a bucolic paradise.
6. Castle in Galway, Ireland
While you can’t rent this entire castle (the price tag would be exorbitant), for just a few hundred bucks a night, you can transport yourself back in time and book a room in this castle, which dates all the way back to the late 1400s. Guests note that the host has an eclectic personality, is happy to teach you how to shoot a bow, and has a magical energy you won’t find anywhere else.
7. Yellow Submarine in Marton, New Zealand
Whether you’re a fan of the Beatles, are fascinated by the Cold War, or just want something ticked off the bucket list that you won’t find elsewhere, this submarine stay is the perfect alternative to camping, letting you be immersed in a sea of green among the redwood trees of the New Zealand flora and fauna.
8. The WonderINN Mirrored Glass Cabin in Rælingen, Norway
This tiny home is unlike any other. It’s the first mirror cabin in Norway, located about 25 minutes away from Oslo in Norway’s largest bird sanctuary, with glass that reflects the impressive surrounding trees, sky, and water until it feels like it’s just you and nature. It even has a private jacuzzi on the terrace.
9. Island Blue in Santorini, Greece
This highly sought-after Airbnb is a cave house that comes with a perfect view of Santorini and its blue-domed churches. There’s a private outdoor pool where you can soak in the amazing view, and many renters call it the best Airbnb they’ve ever rented. With views like this, we’re not surprised.
10. The Blue Meridian in Positano, Italy
You’ll feel like you’re living in a fairytale when you stay in this hillside Airbnb with a private rooftop deck where you can watch the sun set over the twinkling town and the Mediterranean Sea. Though it’s far from many shops and beaches and requires a hike up a hill, it’s well worth it.