If you need a crash course on what makes the Midwest so great, book an Airbnb in Columbus and have yourself an amazing vacation.
It’s hard to believe that Ohio’s capital has only been around for some 200-odd years, especially when you consider how incredible it is today. Featuring countless art museums, one of the States’ largest university campuses, and buildings that seem to extend beyond the clouds, Columbus truly is a microcosm of the American Dream.
You don’t have to take it from us, though… We’ve put together a list of the 15 best Columbus Vacation Homes, VRBOs, and Airbnbs so that you can experience this amazing city first-hand!
Editor’s Note: Please note that Airbnb recently made changes to their program so in this article, we are including links to other options like VRBO or Booking.com which have much lower booking fees.
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15 Best Airbnbs in Columbus
Quaint Townhome
Type: Entire Home (2BR, 1B)
Location: Merion Village
Superhost: Yes
Price: $
Kicking things off on a high note is this budget-friendly Columbus vacation rental, perfect for a group of four. Everything about this place screams family home, from the lovely kitchen and dining room to the cozy beds that’ll have you drifting off into dreamland in minutes flat.
The fireplace lends itself nicely to the airy living area, and the abundance of natural light is the perfect complement to the interior’s calming colors. In addition, the patio is great for taking in the beautiful Merion Village, where your neighbors are all as friendly as can be!
On that note, MV is ripe with historic constructions and interesting locales, and the beautiful German Village and downtown area are just up the road.
Why We Love It: Comfortable townhome that makes family vacationing in Columbus easy and accessible.
What Past Guests Have Said: “This rental was great. It was there for 5 days on my own and it is perfect for a solo person or couple. They do such a nice job of thinking of everything you might need during your stay. I felt very comfortable there. Beds are comfortable, wi-fi was reliable (I worked while there), had a smart TV, kitchen amenities and a cozy living room. No issues and check-in was easy. Great communication.”
“This Air BNB was clean, spacious, and perfect for a little staycation getaway for myself and two friends who were all working from home! Plenty of table space, very fast internet connection, and the best part–super responsive hosts!!! I usually got a response within an hour of sending a message. I also liked the location here, with great restaurants and coffee shops and a beautiful park within 0.5 miles.”
Private Backyard | 2-Car Garage | German Village
Type: Entire Home (2BR, 1B)
Location: German Village
Superhost: Yes
Price: $
This vacation rental in Columbus has it all – it’s located in German Village and features one of the most heavenly interiors we’ve come across in the area.
The homely kitchen and 2 dreamy queen-size beds in this home make this the perfect urban getaway for a couple or a small group of friends, and the airy living room has all the space you could possibly need. Not to mention, nothing soothes a wary eye like a mix of hardwood and white furniture!
German Village is home to some of the city’s most gorgeous architecture, and even if you choose to stay in for the day, the backyard is a great place to take in the neighborhood.
Why We Love It: Incredibly fashionable apartment (especially for the price) located in German Village.
Short North – Italianate Cottage
Type: Entire Home (3BR, 2B)
Location: Short North/Italian Village
Superhost: Yes
Price: $
Equipped with a large kitchen, three queen beds, and two bathrooms, this cottage makes for an unforgettable 6-person retreat.
White-and-blue walls and a combination of vintage and modern furniture are common among vacation rental in Columbus, but this Italian-style house pulls them off particularly well. Things get especially European once you step outside, where you’ll be greeted by a small, yet charming garden and great views of the quirky, captivating neighborhood.
Located right by High Street, the city’s very own Sunset Boulevard, the house is close to German Village, Brewery District, and everything else that’s likely to be on your “Columbus must-sees” checklist.
Why We Love It: Cozy rental that makes getting around Columbus incredibly easy.
What Past Guests Have Said: “Very cute house in a great spot easily accessible to plenty of great restaurants! Very clean & stylish home. Audra & Lacey were quick to respond, easy to work with and were very thoughtful! We appreciated the hospitality and would recommend their homes”
“Adorable house, quiet neighborhood, and a great location. The hosts were super communicative and helpful. Would definitely stay again.”
Newly Renovated German Village Home
Type: Entire Home (2BR, 1B)
Location: German Village
Superhost: No
Price: $
It’s hard to imagine anyone not falling in love with this amazing vacation rental in Columbus – boasting an incredibly stylish interior and every amenity you could possibly need, the house could easily pass for a high-end, luxurious property.
As a beautiful counterpoint to the top-of-the-line kitchen, the retro dining table is the ideal place for a candle-lit dinner. You’ll be able to enjoy beautiful sunsets from the patio, and there’s nothing more invigorating than waking up drenched in sunlight on a cushy bed.
Picking out the best neighborhood in Columbus is like picking a favorite child, but German Village is definitely up there – with Schiller Park and countless other places of interest in the immediate area, this is one of the city’s quintessential tourist districts.
Why We Love It: Extremely comfortable house in a historic area.
What Past Guests Have Said: “Great house with great amenities and very clean, will definitely stay again.”
“This place was so beautiful and clean! Shawyan was very accommodating and quick with responses! Look forward to booking with them again!”
Grab a Slice of History at a Characterful Industrial Studio
Type: Entire Home (1BR, 1B)
Location: Short North
Superhost: Yes
Price: $
Authenticity is in short supply these days, but nobody can accuse this Columbus vacation rental of being unoriginal.
This one-of-a-kind apartment is actually a repurposed factory room, and it shows. There’s something very refreshing about a black-white-and-gray interior that still feels so bright and inviting, and the granite kitchen and spotless bathroom are the envy of every run-of-the-mill couples getaway. We dare you to find a single surface that hasn’t been polished to perfection!
Beyond just style points, however, the apartment provides amazing inner-city connectivity. Besides being a beautiful area in its own right, Italian Village is near Downtown Columbus yet allows for a very quiet and serene stay.
Why We Love It: Truly unique apartment and arguably Columbus’ best rental for couples.
The Beautiful Garden Villa, A Splendid Hidden Gem
Type: Entire Home (1BR, 1B)
Location: Worthington
Superhost: Yes
Price: $$
A list of the greatest Columbus vacation rental would be incomplete without this fabulous guesthouse. Best of all, you wouldn’t believe how affordable it is, all things considered.
Featuring a sunny interior, a beautiful kitchenette, and one of the most tranquil bedrooms we’ve ever come across, this villa raises the bar for every rental in the city, irrespective of price ranges. Even so, the house’s defining feature is its incredible garden. With nearly a full acre of foliage surrounding the house, you’d be completely justified in never once leaving the property during your stay… that stunning outdoor seating area is also a big plus!
If you do decide to venture out, you won’t be disappointed, as Downtown Columbus and all its charms are only 20 minutes away.
Why We Love It: Breathtaking villa with one of the best gardens in Columbus and beyond.
Welcome to the Jungle
Type: Entire Home (2BR, 1.5B)
Location: Short North
Superhost: Yes
Price: $$
Vacationing in this Columbus vacation rental is like staying in an extremely luscious botanical garden that also happens to be livable.
Falling asleep in this house is made easy enough by the 3 comfortable beds (chief among them being the cloudy California king), but the abundance of tropical flora certainly helps. Prep yourself a delicious meal in the well-stocked kitchen, and enjoy a contemplative afternoon in the swinging chair, surrounded by exotic plants.
Short North is one of the best places to stay in Columbus, as it’s quite close to Downtown and the iconic Nationwide Arena. Also, be sure to check out North High Street’s impeccable food joints – your taste buds will certainly thank you!
Why We Love It: Decidedly different rental in terms of decor and presentation.
Dragon’s Lair
Type: Entire Home (4BR, 1B)
Location: Westerville
Superhost: Yes
Price: $$
Staying at a centrally located rental in a major city comes with certain tradeoffs, so for a more low-key vacation, consider booking this dragon-themed Columbus vacation home.
Located in Westerville, one of Columbus’ nicest suburbs, the house really delivers in the entertainment department. The garden features a badminton net and mini-golf courses, and you can find supplies for any major sport in the garage. Inside, you’re guaranteed to lose track of time thanks to the pool table and retro arcade machines.
The house is a knockout in every sense of the word – it has a spacious patio, an exquisite kitchen, and enough bedding for a family of 8. Your kids will definitely love it, so what more could you ask for?
Why We Love It: Comfy house that’s perfect for large families and groups of friends, especially sports lovers.
Insider Tip: Since things are pretty spread out in Columbus, having a car is essential to make the most of your trip. Click Here to check out rental car options and get ready to hit the road!
Short North/Italian Village Townhome
Type: Entire Home (3BR, 1B)
Location: Short North Arts District
Superhost: Yes
Price: $$
Simplicity and elegance don’t have to be mutually exclusive if this wonderful vacation rental in Columbus is any indication.
You can’t go wrong with a combination of exposed brick, hardwood floors, and fashionable living room decor throughout this house. The kitchen is nearly as spacious as the fireplace-equipped “coffee nook”, and the house can comfortably sleep 9 people. Add to that the large, sunny garden, and you have yourself one of the area’s homeliest rentals.
If you’re planning on seeing as much of the city as possible, Short North is among the best places to stay, especially for night owls. Topping everything off, Italian Village and Downtown Columbus are also within walking distance.
Why We Love It: Roomy house close to all the best spots in town.
What Past Guests Have Said: “It was a clean and spacious house. Very happy with our stay.”
“The property is absolutely clean and stylish. It is exactly the same as shown in the pictures and within walking distances to various attractions.”
“Great place! House is bigger than expected, comfy beds. We were 9 people and fit very comfortably around the house. If I ever need to stay again this will be my 1st choice. Thank Jim!”
Rustic/Modern Downtown Oasis
Type: Entire Home (3BR, 3.5B)
Location: 1 mile from Downtown
Superhost: Yes
Price: $$
The only thing that can make a trip to a historic metropolis even better is a superb rental, and this house is nothing short of spectacular.
Despite being almost entirely white, not a single room in this Columbus Airbnb looks grating – whether you’re gathered around the fireplace in the enchanting living area or practicing your cooking chops in the swanky kitchen, you can rest assured you’re doing so in one of the city’s best houses. In addition, you’ll have your pick of three ravishing queen beds, and not one, but three amazing bathrooms.
Downtown is positively brimming with action, so if you can part with this incredible house for a few hours, make like Christopher Columbus and go exploring!
Why We Love It: First-class rental with an unmistakable, heavenly vibe.
What Past Guests Have Said: “This space was so cute and spacious! Plenty of room for multiple guests and lots of great amenities!”
“This house is absolutely AMAZING. You can tell it’s beautiful but wow we were blown away from the second we opened the door. The master bed/bathroom was to die for and the entertainment room in the attic was perfect for downtime with a movie! Love love loved our stay!”
“Loved my stay, the home is beautiful and Ben was very accommodating”
Flowing King Lincoln Home close to Downtown
Type: Entire Home (4BR, 2.5B)
Location: Close to Downtown/ minutes from Franklin Park
Superhost: Yes
Price: $$$
Regardless of how you feel about industrial-style houses, this vacation home in Columbus is a delight for the senses. Flawlessly executing a mix of red bricks, leather, and marble, the Lincoln Home might be the most stylish rental in the city.
Whether you’re in the sunny living area, the sparkling kitchen, or any of the 4 bedrooms, something about this place makes you want to sit back and relax. The soothing ambiance seeps over into the backyard too – being surrounded by West European-looking houses will make you forget you’re in the States altogether!
Finally, a short walk is all that separates this house from the glory of Downtown Columbus, so if you’re looking for a group home, staying here is one of the best ways to experience the main attractions of the city.
Why We Love It: Arguably the best-looking property in Columbus, and extremely accommodating to boot.
What Past Guests Have Said: “Wow. I was amazed at the photos online, but the place looked even better in real life. We absolutely adored the kitchen and the back patio was the perfect place to gather with cocoa or coffee around the fire pit. The home was cleaned and COVID safe. The location was just a few minutes from everything we needed. It was great to have the tv/computer hookups for our conference calls. Ample seating allowed us all to prep for our presentation together while socially distancing when needed. I can’t say enough about this home. I highly recommend this home. You will not be disappointed.”
Gorgeous Victorian Spacious Home in German Village
Type: Entire Home (3BR, 2B)
Location: German Village
Superhost: No
Price: $$$
This Columbus vacation rental is like a fairytale house from a pop-up book, and it stands out among some stiff competition in the historic German Village.
The house is a blueprint for any and all family retreats – every corner of the interior is meaningfully decorated, there are enough beds for half a dozen guests, and the kitchen looks like it was ripped from a gourmet restaurant. Who could say no to two incredible bathrooms and some of the city’s nicest living and dining rooms?
This place is also infant-friendly, and there’s a crib mattress in the kiddie guest room. You can unwind like never before in the incredible backyard, or even get some work done since the laundry room also functions as an office space.
Why We Love It: Luxurious family house located in one of Columbus’ very best districts.
What Past Guests Have Said: “Wonderful space in a great location! Would absolutely return”
“This is such a great, walkable location for German Village. Ellie’s home was spotless and charming. There were 5 of us (two couples and a single) and the layout of the house worked very well. Ellie was very quick to reply to any questions we had and offered good suggestions for local eateries. An excellent choice for our visit to the area!”
“Amazing location, beautiful house , perfect for a family trip. There is a supermarket few steps from the house, and great restaurants.”
LUXURY BRAND NEW 3BR/3BA TOWNHOME W/ROOFTOP PATIO!
Type: Entire Home (3BR, 2.5B)
Location: Harrison West
Superhost: Yes
Price: $$$
If you’re looking to find a house in Ohio for a large group of people, this vacation rental in Columbus is here to make your choice really easy.
A luxurious townhouse in the very heart of the city, this rental can accommodate as many as 16 guests between its 12 beds. In fact, the entire house is planned around maximum-occupancy visits. The open-floor kitchen/living area is incredibly spacious, and there’s also a much-needed second bathroom.
For an unforgettable view of the Columbus skyline, you and your posse can spend your evenings out on the rooftop patio. In fact, this is also a great place to catch a scenic sunrise and start off your day on the right foot.
Why We Love It: High-end house with plenty of room and an incredible patio.
What Past Guests Have Said: “The property we stayed in was beautiful and perfect for us. We had a few minor kinks with the house, but Joel responded immediately and took care of business. He was a pleasure to speak with and I would stay in one of his properties again in a minute. This is a first rate accommodation, and I highly recommend it to anyone who is considering a great getaway.”
“This property is simply gorgeous! Clean and modern decor with plenty of room to spread out… This is a must stay for anyone going to Ohio state or downtown Columbus!”
Easton Waterfront: Boat, Fish, Theatre, Barcade
Type: Entire Home (5BR, 2.5B)
Location: Northeast Columbus
Superhost: Yes
Price: $$$
It would be easier to list the features this Northeast Columbus vacation rental doesn’t have. You name it, and it’s probably there!
As far as the essentials go, the kitchen is solid, and there are enough beds for 12 guests. The house starts picking up steam when you enter the game room, which features everything from foosball to a pool table. In the evenings, you can whip up a drink at the custom bar and enjoy it in the home cinema along with a good movie.
As if things weren’t lavish enough inside, you can step out onto the ginormous deck, which overlooks a beautiful pond. On top of being able to fish here, you can hop into a boat and paddle to your heart’s content!
Why We Love It: Huge property featuring every amenity under the sun.
Custom Home Near Short North, OSU & Downtown
Type: Entire Home (3BR, 1.5B)
Location: Short North
Superhost: No
Price: $$$
Another classic example of aesthetic choices that shouldn’t work together but do, this Airbnb in Columbus combines brick with retro furniture and still looks extremely contemporary.
The kitchen is equipped to handle all your culinary needs, and each of the three bedrooms is charming in its own little way. Watching TV in front of the fireplace is the perfect way to put yourself to sleep, as is stargazing in the backyard with some homemade barbecue.
Although the Short North is always bustling with activity, this particular neighborhood is nice and quiet. If things are getting a little too peaceful, you can always hit the neighboring downtown area and make a night of it.
Why We Love It: Inviting house in a peaceful, historic area.
What Past Guests Have Said: “The host was amazing at communication and there was plenty of comfy places around the house to lounge and relax. We would rent again for sure.”
“Such a lovely house! The owners have made this house warm and inviting. It’s a true Air BnB, so there are personal items throughout the house which was strange at first, but not a turn off. We felt right at home. The use of the garage is a plus, and there’s also plenty of street parking. It’s close to the Short North area bars and restaurants. There’s a park at the end of the private street in a very cute neighborhood. All in all, we enjoyed ourselves and would love to stay again! Thank you for opening your home to us!”
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Things to do in Columbus, Ohio
Once you’ve had your fill of exploration, consider checking out the following Airbnb activities in the Columbus area:
Luna Lumen Meditation – Many of us have tried (and spectacularly failed!) to sit still long enough to reap the undeniable benefits of meditation. If this sounds like you too, Leisa will help you align your chakras and rejuvenate yourself on a spiritual level.
Learn Horsemanship at Tenbrooks Farm – If you need a break from the big city, you can head to Frazeysburg and get acquainted with Tenbrook Farm’s horses . The hosts will teach you how to groom, tack up, and even ride their fabulous steed.
Packing for Your Trip
Before you take off for your trip, check out our travel gear page to make sure you don’t miss out on anything important!
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Check Out These Guides to Airbnbs in the US
If you’re planning to travel within the US, check out our Airbnb guides for more of our top Airbnb picks!
- Airbnb in Tulsa: 15 Stays for the Vacation of a Lifetime
- Airbnb in Knoxville: 15 Amazon Properties for an Unforgettable Vacation
- Airbnb in Branson, MO: 14 Stunning Options for the Perfect Getaway
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