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Charlottesville cabin with wooden beams and comfortable furniture.

Vacation Rentals and Airbnbs in Charlottesville, VA: A Curated Guide

Written by Jess McCurry - November 19, 2024

Charlottesville, Virginia, is a haven for travelers seeking a blend of history, natural beauty, and Southern charm. Whether you’re visiting to explore Monticello, sip your way through the local wineries, or immerse yourself in the Blue Ridge Mountains, finding the perfect place to stay is essential. From cozy cottages to luxurious estates, here’s a guide to the best Airbnb Charlottesville, and other vacation rental options to make your trip unforgettable.

Historic Downtown Charm

Stay in the heart of Charlottesville with easy access to the Downtown Mall. Many Charlottesville vacation rentals near the city center offer unique features like exposed brick walls, historic architecture, and modern amenities.

  • Locus Garden, A North Downtown Cville Guesthouse: 1 bedroom cottage ideal for exploring local shops, dining, historic sites & UVA sporting events.
  • The Posiden: Is a newly renovated studio apartment on the Water Street side of the Downtown Mall!

Luxury Retreats in Ivy

If you’re seeking upscale Charlottesville vacation homes, Ivy’s serene landscapes and sprawling properties are ideal. These rentals often come with premium amenities like pools, hot tubs, and gourmet kitchens. Homes in Ivy are great for large groups and families and are Quiet, private, and close to both Charlottesville and wineries.

Properties:

  • Ivy Rose Cottage: Designed and handbuilt by the hosts, is an enchanting mix of cypress, timber frame, copper trellis work, pergolas, and other architectural treasures.
  • HomeTract Cottage: Hometract is a quiet 3-acre property with terraced garden views. Visit the chicken coop, relax in the hammock, or walk to the garden shop or Duner's restaurant.
  • Lux Country Retreat: Private luxury retreat with a surrounding 2-acre fenced yard is one mile from Pippin Hill Farm & Vineyard and only 15 minutes from UVA/Charlottesville.

Wine Country Escapes in Afton

Just a short drive from Charlottesville, Afton offers picturesque short-term rentals that you’ll love. Perfect for wine and cider lovers, Afton is close to celebrated spots like King Family Vineyards, Blue Mountain Brewery, and Bold Rock Cidery. Our selected Airbnbs feature amenities like fire pits, spacious porches, hot tubs, and vineyard views.

Properties:

Insider Tip: Monticello Wine Tour & Co. will pick you up from your Airbnb for a custom beer and wine tour transportation.

Rustic Cabins Near Shenandoah National Park

For outdoor enthusiasts, nothing beats a rustic cabin near the park entrance. These cozy vacation homes often feature log cabin aesthetics with modern comforts. Our recommended cabins feature amenities like: pet-friendly, proximity to hiking trails, wood-burning stoves, and hot tubs.

Properties:

​​​Modern Farmhouses in Keswick

Located east of Charlottesville, Keswick is known for its sprawling estates and tranquil countryside. Many Charlottesville Airbnb options in this area feature farmhouse-style decor paired with high-end finishes.

Properties:

Quirky & Artistic Stays in Belmont

Belmont, a trendy neighborhood in Charlottesville, is packed with charm. These rentals often showcase unique designs and creative touches. Belmont offers a vibrant dining scene, a walkable neighborhood vibe, eclectic decor, outdoor patios, and proximity to Belmont Park, making it perfect for artists, creatives, and foodies.

Properties:

  • The Belmont Flat: Ideally located studio apartment in the heart of the trendy Belmont neighborhood and within easy reach of Charlottesville’s historic Downtown Mall.
  • Modern Belmont Townhouse: Walk to restaurants, read on the loggia with great views, or in the hot tub on the patio.

Tips for Booking Your Stay

  1. Book Early, Especially During Peak Seasons: Charlottesville is a popular destination year-round, with certain times of the year drawing larger crowds. Events like UVA graduation, Monticello’s Independence Day celebration, fall foliage season, and wine festivals see a surge in visitors.
  2. Match Your Rental to Your Itinerary: Look for rentals near the Downtown Mall to be within walking distance of restaurants, shops, and live music venues. Or opt for countryside properties in Afton, Keswick, or Crozet for easy access to wineries, breweries, and hiking.
  3. Use Trusted Booking Platforms: While platforms like Airbnb and VRBO are popular, Stay Charlottesville is a local gem worth exploring. This curated site specializes in upscale vacation rentals throughout Charlottesville and the surrounding areas. Stay Charlottesville offers high-quality homes with personalized service from modern downtown lofts to luxurious countryside estates. By booking through a local site, you often gain access to insider recommendations and a more tailored experience.

Plan your stay today and experience all that Charlottesville has to offer. Whether it’s a cozy cottage or a grand estate, the perfect vacation rental awaits!