Vacation Homes, VRBOs, and Airbnb in Knoxville: 15 Amazing Properties for an Unforgettable Vacation

written by local expert Andrej Paskalov

A soon-to-be psychology graduate with an interest in traveling, adventure gear, and cognitive science. Andrej is an avid fan of music, classic cinema, and all things Gothic. Whenever he's not testing out travel gear or adventuring in the outdoors you can find him playing the guitar at home.

If you’re in the market for the ultimate Tennessee experience, book an Airbnb in Knoxville, and enjoy your stay in the crowning jewel of the Tennessee Valley!

Home to an ever-expanding student community and sports enthusiasts that give Celtics fans a run for their money, Knoxville is the place to be if you want an exciting, fun-filled vacation in the Southeast.

With properties ranging from low-budget and quirky to outright extravagant, virtually anyone can find a place to call home for the weekend in this Tennessee metropolis. 

The Marble City truly is all that (and so much more), so we propose staying at one of these 15 Knoxville vacation homes, VRBOs, and Airbnbs for an adventure you won’t soon forget.

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.

15 Airbnbs in Knoxville, Tennessee 

Check out our 15 top picks for Airbnbs in Knoxville!

SoKno Getaway

SoKno Getaway
Images courtesy of Airbnb

Type: Entire Home (2BR, 1B)

Location: South Knoxville, 10 minutes from Downtown

Superhost: Yes

Price: $

There are enough vacation rental in Knoxville to scratch every itch, and if you’re looking for a quiet getaway that isn’t too far from the main draws of the city, this rental has your name on it. 

The predominance of white will have you feeling like you’re up in the clouds, especially while relaxing in one of the two queen beds. The serenity of the interior might even inspire workaholics to get some work done while on vacation.

The house also features a serviceable kitchen, as well as a plethora of details that are sure to make your stay more memorable. Bonus points for having one of the shiniest, cleanest bathrooms out there!

Located in a quiet neighborhood not too far from Downtown Knoxville, this is a great place to recharge your batteries while still being able to explore the city in your own time.

Why We Love It: Incredibly clean and comfortable house with an irresistible aesthetic.

What Past Guests Have Said: “Extremely clean sparkling home away from home! The office space was perfect and comfortable if you are traveling on business. The home is well equipped with everything to make full meals. Keurig for the coffee drinkers! Neighborhood is safe and very quiet as backs to a business warehouse. Close to everything & convenient.”

“The home is very clean and beautifully decorated. It was a great experience, I would stay here again!”

View on Airbnb

Knoxville Little House

Knoxville Little House
Images courtesy of Airbnb

Type: Entire house (1BR, 1B)

Location: Along the I-75, just north of Knoxville

Superhost: Yes

Price: $

Traveling on a budget doesn’t necessarily mean you have to settle for subpar accommodation, and this vacation home in Knoxville is living proof. 

Don’t let the name fool you – this rental features everything you need, and then some. The kitchen is exceptional, and in addition to the double bed, there’s a twin-sized sofa that can comfortably sleep a third guest.

What this house brings to the table is a respite from the bustle of the big city. With that said, being right next to the interstate means you can reach downtown Knoxville in no time at all. 

Finally, the front-door patio and spacious yard can’t go unmentioned! The best way to top off a day out in Knoxville is to enjoy a beautiful sunset and observe the local wildlife. 

Why We Love It: Cozy and affordable suite right by all the happenings in Knoxville.

What Past Guests Have Said: “The Little House was clean, cozy and comfortable and perfect for one person or a couple. The grounds have a beautiful bird feeder garden that was a delight. Carol and Dave answered all of my questions quickly. I would definitely stay here again.”

“The Little House is a perfect get away! Carol & Dave are the best hosts!!! I’ve stayed there twice and so love it for the convenience & price! Can’t go wrong with them!! It’s like a cozy cottage you would make for yourself!”

View on Airbnb

Cozy and Convenient Apartment in Old North Knox

Cozy and Convenient Apartment in Old North Knox
Images courtesy of Airbnb

Type: Entire house (1BR, 1B)

Location: Next to Downtown Knoxville and 4th and Gill

Superhost: Yes

Price: $

If you want all the perks of big city living while staying in a decidedly suburban-feeling rental, this Knoxville vacation rental is perfect for you.

Boasting a Victorian design and more history than you’ll know what to do with, this home is one of the definitive properties of its price in the Old North Knoxville area. 

You’ll need a hearty meal and a good night’s sleep after a long day of exploring Knoxville, and the well-stocked kitchen and king-size bed will see to that. In the morning, admire the bustling neighborhood from the porch while enjoying a cup of joe.

For an even better way to shake off that bed-head, walk to the nearby K-brew coffee shop, and end the day at one of the creatively named bars in the area. Also, being next to several major roads makes this house a great starting point for a hike through the Smokies.

Why We Love It: Inviting house with great connectivity to Downtown Knoxville and the southern Appalachians. 

What Past Guests Have Said: “Caleb & Emily were fantastic hosts. We felt comfortable and safe the entire stay. Great location to travel in and around Knoxville!”

“Excellent Airbnb — conveniently located and excellent communication with the hosts. Will definitely book here again.”

“We had a wonderful experience and the apartment was fantastic! Great location to explore Knoxville. The apartment was clean, cozy and updated.”

View on Airbnb

Convenient Convertible Cottage

Convenient Convertible Cottage
Images courtesy of Airbnb

Type: Entire house (1BR, 1B)

Location: Behind Sequoyah Hills, 7 minutes from Downtown Knoxville

Superhost: Yes

Price: $

This sun-showered cottage is everything a rental should be – comfortable, well-situated, and positively brimming with charm. 

Cozy and compact, the house manages to fit a king and queen-size bed, as well as a folding couch and a kitchenette in a relatively small space… All this without feeling the least bit cramped. 

The name of the game here is cleanliness, and every corner of the house, from the bathroom to the nicely decorated living/sleeping area, is absolutely spotless. 

If you’ve heard the hubbub surrounding the city’s impassioned sports community and are dying to see it first-hand, you’ll be delighted to know this Knoxville vacation rental is a quick cab ride away from Thompson Boling Arena and Neyland Stadium. 

Why We Love It: Well-maintained cottage that makes incredibly economic use of its limited space.

What Past Guests Have Said: “Awesome little place that worked out perfectly for my two-week stay! Clean, comfortable, and conveniently located!”

“Very cute and cozy! Perfect for an overnight getaway.”

“The cottage was very cozy and comfortable…and clean! A nice place to stay in Knoxville. Check-in and check-out was easy and convenient. I would recommend this place when staying in Knoxville!”

View on Airbnb

Studio with Fireplace Nestled in Woods

Studio with Fireplace Nestled in Woods
Images courtesy of Airbnb

Type: Entire Home (1BR, 1B)

Location: Forested area near the Tennessee River, 20 minutes from Downtown Knoxville

Superhost: Yes

Price: $

As exciting as staying in the eye of the storm can be, sometimes you want to kick back in a quiet area while still having the option to reach the city quickly. That’s where this Knoxville Airbnb comes in. 

Whether you’re resting on the queen-size bed or huddled up with your significant other on the loveseat, you’re guaranteed to have a comfortable stay at this charming home. If you happen to be visiting during a cold winter (not uncommon in the eastern, mountainous parts of Tennessee), the fireplace is bound to keep you nice and warm. 

To take full advantage of the wooded area, step out onto the patio and enjoy the view, and while you’re at it, fire up the barbecue grill and have an all-American cookout. Alternatively, you can relax in style in the lanai area. Either way, you’re in for a great vacation.

Why We Love It: Beautiful forest studio with plenty of amenities for its price range. 

What Past Guests Have Said: “Really great space a perfect distance from the city!”

“The fireplace is the best part of this cozy space. I would definitely recommend this spot.”

“It is a great place to stay! Jennifer was very responsive during my time there with any questions I had. Within a reasonable distance to downtown as well.”

View on Airbnb

Loft in Historical Red Brick Building

Loft in Historical Red Brick Building
Images courtesy of Airbnb

Type: Entire Home (1BR, 1B)

Location: Old City, right by Downtown Knoxville

Superhost: Yes

Price: $$

No amount of decor can come close to the aesthetic edge that red brick gives to houses, as demonstrated by this Knoxville vacation rental.

Spacious and stylish, the loft features a single couple’s bed, accentuated by the cool color scheme of the furniture and the property’s titular exposed brick design. All this, coupled with a full kitchen and a walk-in shower, makes the loft very easy on the eyes.

The attention to detail in terms of decorations at this home is painstaking, to say the least. The long list of complimentary amenities and even basic decorative features like the common household plant really tie this property together.

The cherry on top is the location, which is as central as central gets. With the entire downtown area in the palm of your hand, you won’t even have to leave the neighborhood to find something to see and do.

Why We Love It: Strong contender for the most eye-catching bedroom in a Knoxville vacation home.

What Past Guests Have Said: “Perfect beautiful little spot in a great location! Quaint and tastefully decorated. We so enjoyed staying here after a loving and exciting wedding day before leaving for our honeymoon. We will be back!”

“Really loved this spot. Perfect location and really easy to find free parking. The whole place was stylishly decorated and had everything you’d need for a short or longer stay! The exposed brick alone is just stunning. So cozy and made me feel right at home.”

View on Airbnb

Historic 4th & Gill House

Historic 4th & Gill House
Images courtesy of Airbnb

Type: Entire Home (2BR, 1B)

Location: 4th and Gill

Superhost: Yes

Price: $$

This vacation rental in Knoxville feels borderline atomic thanks to the gray walls and unique art, but what sets it apart is the abundance of open space.

If you’re visiting with children, the full kitchen and walk-in closet (a potential infant bedroom) are great additions to this family friendly home. The rest of you will have the choice of a king and queen bed, as well as a folding sofa in the main living area. 

The exterior features a deck with a view, and what a view it is. There’s nothing like enjoying a cup of tea in the morning as you watch your bundles of joy running around the spacious, lush-green yard. 

If all this wasn’t enough to pitch this property, the historic location certainly will. In addition, you can count on the thoughtful host to provide you with a map to get you started on your Knoxville adventure. 

Why We Love It: Gorgeous house in a historic region, perfect for family trips.

What Past Guests Have Said: “Joakim was an exceptional host. Responded right away to any of my questions. Joakim suggested places for my son to ride his dirt bike and restaurants close by. The house was very clean and everything seemed new. He paid attention to every detail and the house was fully stocked with anything you could think of that you might need in a home away from home. Very close to downtown Knoxville shops and restaurants, less than 5 minute drive. We rented and ride scooters through downtown, loads of fun. Thanks Joakim for everything.”

View on Airbnb

Exquisite Downtown Loft w/ King Bed

Exquisite Downtown Loft w/ King Bed
Images courtesy of Airbnb

Type: Entire Home (1BR, 2B)

Location: Old City, just north of Downtown

Superhost: Yes

Price: $$

Walking through the Old City is perhaps the best way to get a feel for what Knoxville’s all about, and your experience will be all the better if you book this loft.

There’s something magical about the mix of brick, hardwood, and white, a combo that makes this Knoxville vacation rental truly shine. Be it the fancy kitchen (look at those details!), the trance-inducing bedroom, or even the bathroom, you’ll find something you’d never noticed each time you enter a room. 

Although there’s a single bedroom with a king bed, the loft can comfortably sleep up to 6 people, courtesy of the futon and inflatable mattress. 

Both Gay Street and Market Square are a hop and a skip away, and if you decide to go off-road and do some exploring outside of town, the highway is only a minute from the loft. 

Why we love it: Homely loft with a gorgeous layout, on par with many high-end properties in the area.

What Past Guests Have Said: “If you are looking for a super cute place in walking distance to lots of great food and coffee then this is a great place. Just as pictured, and an amazingly comfortable bed as well.”

“This stylish space is the perfect location, close to the intestate and a short walk to all the fun!”

“Beautiful space and total ease throughout. Very happy.”

View on Airbnb

Insider Tip: Since things are pretty spread out in Knoxville, 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!

Sunny Sterchi Loft w/ view

Sunny Sterchi Loft w/ view
Images courtesy of Airbnb

Type: Entire Home (3BR, 2B)

Location: Old City 

Superhost: Yes

Price: $$

It’s rare to find a property that oozes personality from every corner, but this vacation rental in Knoxville stands out among the competition.

The blend of retro furniture and the modern beige-and-black color palette is positively stunning and creates a laid back aesthetic that flows through this bright apartment

What more can you ask from a property besides a good kitchen, three amazing bedrooms, and eye-catching art? To answer that question, guests will be given a complimentary parking pass, as well as access to a fitness area in the basement. 

Topping everything off, Old City is a great place to stay in Knoxville, as everything you could want to visit is right at your doorstep.

What Past Guests Have Said: “We loved our stay at Knox Station. Spacious, clean and great walking distance to everything Old City and Market Square have to offer. Highly recommend!”

‘This is a great spot, perfectly located between shopping and restaurants on Gay St and just around the corner from Knoxville’s “Old City”. Everywhere we wanted to go was within walking distance. The spot is clean and very roomy. Incredibly high ceilings give it a nice open feeling. Located on the 2nd floor with great view. Would definitely stay again.”

View on Airbnb

Luxury Living in Historic Downtown Knoxville

Luxury Living in Historic Downtown Knoxville
Images courtesy of VRBO

Type: Entire Home (2BR, 2B)

Location: 4th and Gill, minutes away from Downtown

Superhost: Yes

Price: $$

Whoever came up with the saying “two’s company, three’s a crowd” must not have had many group vacation experiences, as this Knoxville vacation rental clearly demonstrates.

Between the 3 queen beds and the cozy living room couch, this rental can provide a party of 7 or 8 people with an amazing Tennessee holiday without compromising quality in the slightest. 

The architectural flair of George Franklin Barber permeates this house (as is common in most constructions in the 4th and Gill area), and the white walls/ample sunlight double whammy will have you up early and ready to go. Also, two bathrooms!

The stainless steel kitchen appliances only add to the luxurious vibe of the house, as do the minor touches like stained-glass windows and chandeliers.  

Why We Love It: Extremely accommodating mid-ranger built for group vacations

View on VRBO

Williamswood Castle

Williamswood Castle
Images courtesy of Airbnb

Type: Entire Home (3BR, 2.5B)

Location: Quiet forest near the downtown area

Superhost: Yes

Price: $$$

The holiday season is fast approaching, and it’s bound to bring with it a wave of social media pictures of your friends sipping cocktails at swanky resorts. A great way to one-up them this year would be to book the most unique vacation rental in Knoxville.

This place definitely lives up to its name: an honest-to-God castle! Channel your inner medieval geek by exploring hallways decorated with swords and armor, then treat yourself to some brew at your very own bar.

Besides the 3 bedrooms and the ultimate kitchen/dining room (better known as the Great Hall), the features are too many to list. Williamswood Castle has everything from old-timey instruments to antiques and ceiling art above your bedhead.

Although Downtown is right around the corner, you might have a better time checking out the property and the 300 acres of forest that flank it.

Why We Love It: An extremely comfortable “resort” and a one-off in every way.

What Past Guests Have Said: “This house is so much fun! It was a great place just to hang out and relax – it has so many quirky details that we were still noticing new things three nights in.”

“Stayed because my friends love everything knights and castles, and this lived up to the already amazing reviews! 10/10 would stay again.”

“the space is fantastic. living like royalty for the weekend was amazing.”

View on Airbnb

Unique Mid-Century Modern Gem

Unique Mid-Century Modern Gem
Images courtesy of VRBO

Type: Entire Home (2BR, 3B)

Location: South of the Tennessee River, 10 minutes from downtown

Superhost: Yes

Price: $$$

Although they may fall into relative obscurity, certain design styles never truly fall out of fashion. Exhibit A – this incredible relic of the past is a standout Knoxville vacation rental.

Rocking a mid-century layout through and through, this house will woo you with its bright interior, immaculate choice of furniture, and breathtaking courtyard, smack dab in one of the most incredible wooded areas you’re likely to see. 

Whip up some breakfast in the top-of-the-line kitchen, and have your pick of several patios and bedroom balconies. Each is more beautiful than the last, but they all make for amazing places to enjoy your daily dose of caffeine, all while marveling at the beautiful nature that surrounds you. 

Finally, Downtown Knoxville is mere miles away, so what little time you’re not spending in complete awe of the property, you can hit the streets and familiarize yourself with the city. 

Why we love it: Incredible rental and possibly the most aesthetically pleasing property in the region.

View on VRBO

Las Campanas Retreat

Las Campanas Retreat
Images courtesy of Airbnb

Type: Entire Home (4BR, 2.5B)

Location: Sequoia Hills. 5 minutes from downtown

Superhost: Yes

Price: $$$

If you’re looking for something a little more conventional and have the budget to back it up, this Sequoia Hills rental might just be what you’re looking for.

This Knoxville vacation rental has a near-hundred-year history, and it shows, as the furniture and decorations somehow feel both vintage and brand new. With enough bedding for 10 people, a great kitchen, and that always-welcome second bathroom, taking your extended family on a fancy vacation has never been easier.

You won’t have to carpool to get everyone there, either – on top of the huge backyard, guests will have access to a full-blown parking lot. Once you’ve settled in, put on your best clothes and take a several-minute walk to Downtown Knoxville, or check out one of the various nearby hiking trails. 

Why we love it: Spectacular house that can fit you and your immediate & extended family.

What Past Guests Have Said: “Patricia’s place is beautiful and comfortable with tons of parking. You will love staying there!”

“House offers a great layout with kitchen and family room connected for group interactions. Very clean and located close to University. I would highly recommend Patricia’s place.”

View on Airbnb

Shamrock Suite

Shamrock Suite
Images courtesy of Airbnb

Type: Entire Home (3BR, 2.5B)

Location: One block from Market Square

Superhost: Yes

Price: $$$

Less of a family joint and more of a fancy get-together spot for buddies and groups of couples, this Knoxville Airbnb is all about making lasting memories with your friends.

Featuring sleek hardwood floors, a dartboard, and a professional pool table, the suite feels like an old-timey saloon with a modern twist. The window views of the downtown area are amazing, and with plenty of sunlight pouring in, you should have no trouble making your shots count!

Between the 2 queen beds and the king bed, the suite sleeps half a dozen people. Also included are 2 full bathrooms and a half-bathroom, a round table for dining or a game of cards, and an incredible kitchen with a tin ceiling (trust us, it works!)

Why We Love It: Beautiful suite that takes all the best features of a bar and makes them incredibly classy.

What Past Guests Have Said: “Probably the best Airbnb host that I have ever dealt with!!! The best!!!”

“We had a wonderful stay at the Shamrock Suite! The place was clean and well stocked with everything we needed. The beds were so comfy. My kids really enjoyed having the pool table to pass the time. Perfect location! Can’t wait to stay here again!”

“Loved this place. Very clean and beautiful. The host was great!”

View on Airbnb

Unique Loft Apt. With Rooftop Deck

Knoville Unique Loft Apt. With Rooftop Deck
Images courtesy of VRBO

Type: Entire Home (2BR, 2.5B)

Location: In the heart of Downtown Knoxville

Superhost: Yes

Price: $$$

If you can afford to aim for the city’s premier properties, you can live it up (literally) in this incredible Knoxville vacation home.

Among the stylish living area (complete with a fireplace), indoor balcony overlooking the suite, and the jacuzzi-equipped master bathroom, the private rooftop terrace stands out as the suite’s defining feature. This place offers the best view of urban Knoxville, high-rise buildings are damned!

The gourmet kitchen is like something out of Iron Chef, and the king bed, queen bed, and reclining sofa allow for up to 6 guests. With multiple windows on every outward-facing wall, you can expect the place to remain consistently bright.

As an added bonus, being located in the very center of Downtown Knoxville grants you quick and easy access to all the best spots in the area, so you have every reason in the world to get out there and go adventuring!

Why We Love It: Breathtaking suite that houses decently sized groups and offers a nigh-unmatched level of luxury for visitors of Knoxville. 

View on VRBO

✨The 1 Thing We Never Leave Home Without…

Travel Insurance

Coming from someone who has been traveling the world for the last 8 years AND has been in the hospital 2x, travel insurance is something everyone NEEDS to get. Get a quote below!

Things to do in Knoxville, Tennessee

There’s plenty to do in or around Knoxville to occupy yourself – we recommend the following Airbnb experiences:

Smokies Photo Class & Lunch with a Pro – If you’re tired of shaky hands and suboptimal lighting ruining your photo ops, take a trip to Pigeon Forge and learn the tricks of the trade from an expert photographer (barbecue lunch break included!) Become proficient by immersing yourself in a photographer’s natural environment – Mother Nature.

Mountain Biking Knoxville Trails – Feeling confident in your biking skills? Put the pedal to the metal and embark on a 4-hour bicycle ride through the area’s most scenic trails. If your legs give out on you midway through, no harm, no foul – at least you’ll get some amazing photos out of it!

Top Rated Wine and Shine Walking Tour – Any aficionado of good spirits should do themselves a favor and see first-hand how a distillery operates. Best of all, your reward for driving out to Gatlinburg is getting to taste-test some of the finest ciders, wine, and moonshine money can buy!

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!

Inspired? Pin It! Airbnbs in Knoxville | Looking for the best Airbnbs in Knoxville Click here to see our top picks. #usa #tennessee #knoxville #wheretostayinknoxville

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