One of the most happening cities in the US, no trip to Texas is complete without visiting its buzzing capital, Austin. And it’s not just the Texan capital, it’s also the Live Music Capital of the World.
Though it hosts SXSW, there’s live music pretty much every night of the year! It’s also a haven for outdoor lovers, with kayaking, stand up paddle boarding, and walking and cycling through the parks, lakes, and rivers of the city.
When it comes to choosing a place to stay, you may want to consider vacation rentals in Austin. These charming properties often offer better value for money than hotels – and you won’t have to share rooms to get a good deal as you would in hostels. But with so many to choose from, it can be hard to know the right place for you.
Let us help you. I’ve put together this list of the 15 best Airbnbs in Austin. Not only that, I’ve thrown in some of the best Airbnb Experiences you can do when you arrive too. Let’s get planning your city break!
Quick Answer: These are the Top 5 Airbnbs in Austin
Vintage East Side Bungalow
- > $$
- > 6 guests
- > Fully equipped kitchen
- > Large private backyard
Chic Home near Downtown Austin
- > $
- > 2 guests
- > Air conditioning
- > Access to communal areas
Tiny House w/ Big Personality
- > $
- > 2 guests
- > Queen bed
- > Outdoor dining area
Vibrant Home in Downtown Austin
- > $$$
- > 10 guests
- > Backyard sports court
- > BBQ grill and fire pit
Artsy Home w/ Heated Saltwater Pool
- > $$
- > 2 guests
- > Outdoor Heated Saltwater Pool
- > Designer features
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What to Expect from Airbnbs in Austin
While Austin isn’t the most popular road trip destination in Texas (that honour goes to Houston), it’s still pretty big. And it attracts more than 30 million tourists a year! With such popularity, it’s no surprise that there’s a huge range of vacation rentals in Austin. You should have no trouble at all finding something that matches your budget and taste.
In Downtown and the surrounding areas, you can find all the usual Airbnbs such as entire flats and lofts, with more unusual properties thrown in too. Think tiny houses and Airstream caravans! If you’re looking to head out to somewhere like Lake Travis, you might bag yourself a cabin or a villa.
It’s a mix of whether you’ll have a local host or a business during your stay in Austin. In homestays and private rooms, you’ll be hosted by an Austinite, but in larger and more expensive properties, you’re more likely to be welcomed by a business.
Bungalow
Let’s start with a good option for groups of friends and families. Bungalows are single-story buildings that offer a home away from home. You can expect a fully equipped kitchen, living area, and bedrooms to suite the size of your party. You might also get a garden or porch too, not to mention free parking – which is great if you have your own transport.
Downtown is packed with high rises so you won’t find bungalows in Central Austin. However, in the surrounding districts such as the Rainey Street Historic District, East Austin, and Travis Heights, you are spoiled for choice.
When it comes to comfort and convenience, there’s not much that will beat a bungalow. Though I said they’re good for groups of friends and families, you can easily find smaller bungalows that suit solo travellers or couples too.
Airstream Caravan
Back in the 40s, airstream caravans were part of the American dream. You could pack your stuff and set off on a road trip without having to leave anything at home. Now that Americans can enjoy bigger cars and RVs, the purpose of the airstream caravan has changed a lot.
Now, you’ll mostly find this touring icon stationery. However, plenty of creatives have turned their airstream caravans into cute tiny homes and now rent them out via Airbnb. Space is limited so they’re best suited to solo travellers and couples, but if you’re looking for something quirky then you’ll have to try hard to find anything better!
Airstreams are usually on host’s properties or part of larger camping and caravanning sites. You’ll get features such as fire-pits and garden areas – and on campsites, use of the amenities.
There is no direct link for airstream caravans on Airbnb. However, search motorhomes and tinyhouses in Austin and you should find plenty there!
Tiny House
Similar to airstreams, tiny houses offer you a chance to stay in a unique small space which has been cleverly designed. Tiny houses offer more spaces than airstream caravans for the most part, though I’d still recommend them for couples or solo travellers. However, some can accommodate larger groups!
A tiny house will give you everything you’d expect from a regular home – such as a fully equipped kitchen, living area, and often a small outdoor space where you can relax.
Tiny houses are mostly found in the areas surrounding Downtown Austin. Their small size means they’re great for convenience – especially if you’re on a weekend trip or similar.
Why Stay in an Airbnbs in Austin?
So, still not sure a vacation rental is for you? Let’s take a look at five of the top reasons to stay in an Airbnb. Then I’ll get onto seeing some properties!
- Local Experience: Whether your host is an Austinite or a local business, you can get the low down on everything that’s off the beaten tourist track and find the best things to do in Austin.
- Unique Properties: As you’re about to see, there are loads of awesome unique properties in Austin – from tiny houses to Airstream caravans. Who needs hotels and hostels?!
- Privacy: Many Airbnbs have self check in and you can even filter for a completely private accommodation should you wish to.
- Affordability: Airbnbs regularly offer better value for money than hotels at an equivalent price. Especially if you don’t pick the busiest tourist areas! It’s a great way to explore Austin on a budget while still enjoying a quality home.
- Airbnb Experiences: It’s not all about where to stay, it’s about what to do when you there. I’ve got a whole section coming up on Airbnb Experiences, so don’t miss that!
The Top 15 Airbnbs in Austin
Now that you know what’s on offer and why you should stay in an Airbnb, let’s get to the fun part. You’re about to see the 15 coolest, most beautiful, and weirdest Airbnbs in Austin. All you have to do is decide your favourite place to stay!
Overall Best Value Airbnb in Austin | Vintage East Austin Bungalow
- $$
- Air conditioning
- 6 guests
- Large private backyard
Usually, the best value Airbnb in a city would be a private room in an apartment, or perhaps a studio. However, look outside of Downtown (not too far mind) and you may be surprised.
This vintage bungalow in Central East Austin offers a home away from home centred around a cosy living room with exposed brickwork. It will suit groups of family and friends and there’s a cool backyard where you can chill in summer.
Best Budget Airbnb in Austin | Chic Home near Downtown Austin
- $
- Air conditioning
- 2 guests
- Access to communal areas
Austin is a lot of things, but cheap isn’t one of them. However, you can still find an affordable property if you know where to look. In South Austin, below the river, the pace of life is a little less frenetic than Downtown, and this is the perfect base if you want to relax during your trip.
It’s still within walking distance of Austin’s attractions when you need it! The room can also be rented for long-term stays, good news for students and/or digital nomads. It might not be as cheap as Austin’s hostels, but it’s definitely the most affordable option!
Perfect Airbnb for Solo Travellers | Bright Room in Leafy Oasis
- $
- Huge outdoor deck
- 2 guests
- Near universities
If you’re travelling solo, most people will just tell you to head for the nearest hostel in Austin assuming you’ll love it. However, dorms and noise aren’t great when you want to get some actual sleep.
Thankfully, this homestay is a short walk to the university means it’ll be easy to meet people in the sociable bars and coffee shops nearby. If you prefer to keep yourself to yourself, there’s a lovely back deck where you can catch up on work or your latest holiday read.
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Learn More Now!Most Romantic Airbnb for Couples | Tiny House w/ Big Personality
- $
- Queen bed
- 2 guests
- Outdoor dining area
This tiny house is in such a convenient location in Central Austin. It may be tiny, but it sure is tall, and for the duration of your stay you’ll have lots of light flooding into this cute little Austin Airbnb.
The loft queen bed is an ideal place to come home to after a day of exploring Austin TX. Also, thanks to the privacy of the garden, the outdoor dining area is a wonderful place for a romantic and candlelit dinner!
Best Airbnb in Austin for Families | Vibrant Home in Downtown Austin
- $$$
- Backyard sports court
- 10 guests
- BBQ grill and fire pit
No matter the age of guests here, they’re sure to love the colourful and vibrant design. With room for up to ten people in this Downtown Craftsman home, there’s plenty to keep kids and teens alike entertained.
Teenagers will love grilling marshmallows over the fire pit, while the sports court out the back is perfect for bringing out the competitive side of your family!
Over the Top Luxury Airbnb in Austin | Artsy Home w/ Heated Saltwater Pool
- $$
- Outdoor Heated Saltwater Pool
- 2 guests
- Designer features
This stunning house in the Travis Heights neighborhood looks as if it has just jumped out of the pages of a design magazine. It’s small and elegantly designed, with artistic pieces and designer furniture throughout.
After a day of exploring the city, come back to swim in the heated saltwater swimming pool that you share with other apartments in the building, or curl up in front of the fireplace and smart TV.
Best Bungalow in Austin | Peaceful Poolside Bungalow
- $$
- Convenient Location
- 2 guests
- Outdoor swimming pool
Looking to have a local experience in Austin TX? A little further from Downtown, in the Bluff Springs neighborhood, you’ll find this historic bungalow that’s positively packed with character.
This poolside casa makes for a warm welcome, and you’ll feel as if you’re in a cabin in the Rocky Mountains! The cosy space offers air conditioning, a queen sized bed, smart TV and a fully equipped kitchen where you can cook up a storm after wandering through all of Austin’s top places to visit.
On warm summer days, head outside to the outdoor swimming pool and cool off under the hot Texan sun.
Best Airstream Caravan in Austin | Hip Remodeled Airstream Trailer
- $$
- Ideal location
- 2 guests
- Hot Tub/Cowboy Pool
The great thing about this Airstream Caravan is that it’s not just about being inside the caravan. The cute outdoor deck has a sun lounger and cowboy pool – ideal if you want a lazy day. Once you get in the caravan, it’s much bigger than it looks on the outside too. There’s a kitchen, queen bed, and workspace in there. Not to mention a whole lot of houseplants too!
Best Tiny House in Austin | Central East Austin Beehive
- $$$$
- Air conditioning
- 2 guests
- Cool and unique design
You might be thinking that this place looks a little unusual. Well, it is, but that’s no bad thing! Based on Japanese teahouses, there’s lots of wood, lots of light, and the chance to get zen and relax. Though there’s no TV, there is a record player for entertainment.
The Beehive will have you feeling miles away from the city, however, it’s just a short journey by bike or on nearby public transport!
Perfect Airbnb for Digital Nomads | Private Suite in East Austin
- $$
- Dedicated workspace
- 4 guests
- Private balcony
This self-contained suite is ideal for a digital nomad looking to work for a few weeks in Austin. Not only is there Wi-Fi and a dedicated workspace, but you have your own cooking equipment, including a fridge, microwave, and kettle.
If it’s a little warm inside, head out onto your private balcony and feel the breeze as you respond to your emails.
This suite sleeps up to four guests but would be perfect for a digital nomad since it only have one bedroom.
Best Airbnb with a Pool in Austin | Bright Downtown House
- $$$$$
- Heated swimming pool
- 12 guests
- Fully equipped kitchen
Sometimes you might look at a property’s swimming pool and think it looks more like a paddling pool. Not this one though. You could easily do lengths in here and get a workout in before breakfast! Speaking of, there’s a fully equipped kitchen where you can make that too. This Austin Airbnb has space for up to 12 guests, in four bedrooms with a king size bed in each, making it perfect for groups of family and/or friends.
Best Airbnb Plus in Austin | Light-Filled Loft near Lady Bird Lake
- $$
- Stylish Furniture
- 4 guests
- Fully equipped kitchen
Airbnb Plus properties are some of the best on the platform. They’ve been handpicked thanks to their excellent reviews, attentive hosts, and cool design. Though it says four guests, I’d recommend this one for a couple. The self-contained studio loft has a kitchen, living area, and queen bed. Catch a movie on Netflix there after a day out paddleboarding or sampling the local cuisine.
Best Airbnb Luxe in Austin | Blue Sky Estate
- $$$$$
- Gorgeous pool with a cascading rock waterfall
- 12 guests
- Walking distance to Downtown Austin
Airbnb Plus may be some of the best properties on the platform, but Airbnb Luxe take vacation rentals to another level. This exquisite estate close to Downtown Austin has everything you could possibly need from a vacation home and more. Plus, you’re near Lake Austin if you feel like quality time outdoors with the family.
Take a dip in the private outdoor swimming pool with a gorgeous waterfall, or whip up a BBQ and chill out in the huge private garden.
Inside, there are five bedrooms and 4.5 bathrooms, with a light and airy open plan design throughout. If you love cooking, you have the added luxury of a chef’s kitchen. Travelling with kids? They will love the trampoline and ping pong table!
Best Airbnb on Lake Travis | Private Staycation Lake Travis
- $$$$$
- Swimming pool and hot tub
- 9 guests
- Exquisite sunset views
If don’t want an Austin Airbnb in the heart of the hustle and bustle, then nearby Lake Travis is a good place to try instead.
This spectacular three bedroom home with waterfront access is the best place to soak that up for you and eight of your nearest and dearest.
The sunset views from the outdoor terrace are spectacular, while the hot tub will keep you warm once the temperature drops!
When it’s time to sleep, you and eight other guests can head to one of your three bedrooms, each featuring either a king size bed or queen size bed.
Best Airbnb in Austin for a Group of Friends | Modern East Austin Bungalow
- $$$$
- Awesome location
- 6 guests
- Remodeled by architects
This smart and stylish apartment is the perfect Austin Airbnb for a getaway with friends. There are lots of places where you can chill out together both indoors and outdoors.
It could be over a coffee at the breakfast bar, curled up on the sofa during a movie night, or having beers around the fire pit. If you’re the first one up, take a book from the shelves to enjoy!
Top 5 Airbnb Experiences in Austin
Now that you’ve seen the best Austin Airbnbs, let’s take a look at what you can do when you arrive. Austin has tons of things to do, whether it’s strolling through Zilker Park, paddle boarding on Lady Bird Lake, Lake Austin, or taking a day trip out to Texas Hill Country before dinner.
A great way to see the city like a local is by using Airbnb Experiences. The platform offers tours and day trips curated by locals, who want you to fall in love with their city and keep coming back. Airbnb Experiences can be anything from scavenger hunts to mountain biking.
These are my favourite Austin Airbnb Experiences. Whatever your travel style, you’re sure to love them!
Greenbelt Mountain Bike Adventure
- $74/person
- 3 hours
- Up to four guests
There’s lots of cycling to be had in Austin, but sometimes cycling on the flat alongside rivers just isn’t enough of a thrill. For those daredevils out there, take a mountain biking trip instead! You’ll be heading along trails through Barton Creek where you might even get the chance to spot local wildlife. You and up to four people can explore some of the best nature Austin has to offer.
Downtown Sunset Kayak with 1.5m bats
- $55/person
- 2.5 hours
- Up to 10 guests
At sunset, something strange happens in Austin. 1.5 million, that’s MILLION, bats come out from their home under the Congress Bridge. It makes for a pretty incredible sight to see from the bridge itself. However, what’s even more spectacular is seeing the swarm of bats from the river itself. Kayaking or paddleboarding is a popular way to do so – so check this tour out!
Keep Austin Weird Scavenger Hunt
- $18/person
- 2 hours
- Up to 10 guests
The city’s slogan is “Keep Austin Weird”. So, while you’d usually be learning about places from history museums or art galleries, this scavenger hunt will take you to some of the more curious attractions the city has to offer. It injects a bit of life into self-guided walking tours – which can sometimes be a bit dry!
Tacos Tasting Experience
- $89/person
- 90 minutes
- Up to 8 guests
One of the biggest attractions to Austin is food and Mezcal (tequila). Since it’s close to the Mexican border, it has adopted some of the country’s most staple foods. Including, TACOS!
In this 90 minute mezcal and taco tasting workshop, you’ll learn the art of choosing appropriate pairing of taco and mezcal, and learn all about the satisfying culinary history.
Come hungry!
Boozy lazy sunkissed tube ride
- $57/person
- 4 hours
- Up to 10 guests
The best way to see the San Marcos River is on the back of a tube… with a beer in your hand (or another drink of choice). Soak up the sun, have a swim, and just enjoy being a million miles from the stresses of everyday life. The lazy tube ride lasts for about 2 – 3 hours, so be sure to pace yourself when it comes to alcohol!
Don’t Forget Your Austin Travel Insurance
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Final Thoughts on Austin Airbnbs
Well, there you have it. Those are the 15 best Airbnbs in Austin – with some cool experiences too. No matter where you want to stay, there’s an Airbnb in Austin for you. It could be a quirky Airstream Caravan, a cool tiny house, or perhaps a spacious and comfortable bungalow.
If you still are struggling to decide where to stay, try not to worry. I’d just recommend that you go for my overall best value Airbnb in Austin. That’s the Vintage East Side Bungalow. It’s just about the right distance from Downtown for you to get a good night’s sleep without missing out on the area’s delights!
I hope that you have a fabulous vacation in Austin no matter where you stay. And to make sure it’s a safe one too, check out World Nomads’ travel insurance policies.
And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links. That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!
