The 24 Dreamiest Island Airbnbs in the Mediterranean

The Mediterranean coast is peppered with thousands of islands. Greece alone has 6,000 islands and islets. Granted, many are inhabited, and without a private vessel, they remain a closely guarded local secret, but you might be surprised to learn of some postcard-perfect islands that European vacationers have relied on for a fix of island life for decades. Greece’s car-free haven of Hydra, where donkeys still rule the roads, and Italy’s volcanic Ischia remain uncharted — at least for many travelers from the US.

The Mediterranean islands offer the laid-back lifestyle synonymous with what we expect from Europe but on a grander scale. Whether you’re looking for world-class partying or a remote romantic small town surrounded by olive trees and vineyards, chic beach bars, or unsung secluded coves with turquoise waters, you’ll find it on one of the Med’s many islands.

Despite the popularity of Spain’s Balearic Islands, Sicily, and Sardinia, you can still find pockets of tranquility away from the main drag. One of the easiest ways to do this is by renting an Airbnb either outside the most popular island towns or by opting for a property that is an island sanctuary in itself. From pretty stone homes clinging to hillsides, renovated historic villas, and ocean-view luxury properties with infinity pools, these Airbnbs are breathtakingly beautiful. Here are some of the dreamiest properties for an unforgettable stay in the Med.

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Emerging from the cerulean Adriatic Sea, Krk, Croatia’s largest island, is one of the most popular spots in the country. Because of this, I highly recommend visiting in the fall when the sea is still warm and the crowds have thinned out. Due to Croatia’s recent boom in tourism, that logic can be applied to the entire country. Unlike many of its 1,243 sister islands, under 50 of which have permanent communities, Krk is lively — to say the least. Accessible via a bridge from the mainland, Krk town is pretty, but its souvenir-laden streets aren’t for all. There are quieter spots like Punat’s tranquil bay, which shelters the islet of Košljun. To the south, Baška’s sandy beach caters to sun-seekers, and the village of Vrbnik, perched on cliffs, is a haven for those who prefer a more low-key local experience. Each locale, shaped by centuries of cultural exchange, contributes to Krk’s character, a mix-match of heritage and modern tourism.

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Stick to small villages and away from the main town of Krk for a low-key island getaway. This luxury villa is in the village of Žestilac, under two miles from the beautiful pebble-stone Petrina beach. The four-bedroom is good value for money, considering it has a pool, sauna, and wine cellar. The family villa is divided into three floors, so there’s plenty of space indoors (and out) for a group of eight. Another luxe option is this four-bedroom home in the hamlet Bajčići or this stunning modern sea view villa within walking distance of the charming village of Klimno. For something smaller, couples or small families should check out this pretty stone home with a pool in the tiny town of Sveti Ivan Dobrinjski. All of these rentals are within driving distance of the town of Krk, meaning you can pop in for dinner and retreat to the countryside for a peaceful night’s sleep.

Eight guests, four bedrooms
Price: $489 per night

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Hvar draws a sophisticated crowd with its refined coastal lodging, dining establishments, and stylish waterfront bars, where arrival by boat is the norm. The island caters to those who appreciate luxury in a relaxed setting. The southeast’s Hvar Town is the island’s hub for upscale dining and evening entertainment, where lodging options reach capacity during peak season. But just outside town, you’ll stumble across beautiful historic villages with stone houses, wineries, and jaw-dropping sea views. Staying on the outskirts means you can dip in and out of the “scene” and return to your vacation rental surrounded by lavender fields and olive groves. The island is accessible via ferry from Split or Drvenik on the mainland, offering daily connections that vary seasonally.

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Accommodations in Hvar can be pricey compared to other places in the country. But your dollar will go further in the Croatian islands than in other European isles such as Sardinia or the Balearics. For a rustic yet chic stay, have a look at this family-owned villa in Malo Grablje. The village has a fascinating history. It was deserted in the 1960s when a vine disease wiped out the grape crops. The residents, who relied on the industry, relocated to the coastal settlement of Milna, but today, you can wander through the village’s hauntingly beautiful ruins or, indeed, stay in one of the restored homes. The historical old stone house is around a mile from the beaches of Milna Bay and has an outdoor heated pool, Jacuzzi, sauna, small gym, BBQs, and three bedrooms. Another equally beautiful rental is this four-bedroom on one of Hvar’s most spectacular stretches of coastline. With its elegant interiors, breathtaking views, direct sea access from the tired garden, and walking distance to the village of Ivan Dolac, this is one of my favorite Airbnbs on the island. Many of the Airbnbs in Hvar are on the larger side. You can find compact modern apartments, but the decor can often be a little dated. For couples, you might find a suite like this a better option. It has everything you need in a rental: a kitchen and a pool, and the interior is as chic as a high-end hotel.

Eight guests, three bedrooms
Price: $623 per night

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Known as the Ile de Beauté (the Island of Beauty), Corsica is far from a secret for Europeans. Yet, despite being accessible via a relatively short flight from mainland France, it remains less frequented by travelers than islands such as Sicily or neighboring Sardinia. Corsica is a one-stop shop catering to families, outdoor enthusiasts, and couples looking for a romantic hideaway. The stunning coastline is complemented by charming hilltop villages, UNESCO World Heritage sites, a thriving local wine industry, pristine white sand beaches, and the opportunity to discover secluded coves and hiking trails away from the crowds.

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

You can have a lot of fun and while away an afternoon looking at Airbnbs in Corsica. Corsican homes are traditionally built from the island’s bedrock from locally quarried stone like granite and schist. This keeps homes warm in winter and cool in summer and integrates beautifully with the surrounding environment. This typical Corsican stone home is on a wooded property between the villages of Pigna and Corbara. The one-bedroom seamlessly blends into the hillside of rock and is a top-five percent rental on Airbnb. For more space, this sprawling modern villa (with five bedrooms) overlooking the bay of Valinco and the marina of Propriano will do nicely. It’s a few minutes from the most beautiful beaches and coves of southern Corsica and has panoramic sea and mountain views.

Two guests, one bedroom
Price: $347 per night

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Some say Crete is still off the radar. Those like myself who traveled there in the 90s might disagree, but Greece’s largest island remains my “go-to” for a vacation beyond the typical beach package the country does so well. Often referred to as the “Zeus” of the Greek Isles (it was the island of Zeus and Zorba, after all), many come to Crete for the history and to eat. The island’s Cretan olive oil, honey, and produce are among the nation’s best, and the winemaking is also experiencing a revival. The northern coast beaches have perfected the backdrop for luxury resorts, while the mountainous interior feels more authentic with traditional villages and archaeological sites. Reaching Crete from the US will likely involve flying to Athens and connecting to Heraklion or Chania. Ferries from Piraeus are also an option, though they involve longer travel times.

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Again, Crete is an island where you’ll have a more authentic experience if you skip the resorts and rent a home away from the main tourist areas. For a private haven with out-of-this-world views, this award-winning smart villa overlooks the crystal clear, turquoise waters of south Crete. It’s minimalist in design. The interiors (and pool overlooking the water) will make your Instagram followers green with envy, and guests have access to a private small cove, so there’s no fighting for beach space. Another secluded luxe option with an extra two bedrooms is this villa with a heated infinity pool and equally impressive views in Agios Onoufrios. Couples and solo travelers should check out this top one percent one-bedroom villa in Agia Pelagia. The modern, stylish home has views of Lygaria Bay and is a quick 25-minute drive from Heraklion Airport.

Five guests, two bedrooms
Price: $452 per night

Photo: Georgios Tsichlis/Shutterstock

The island of Hydra had a reputation for being chic way before Mykonos came on the scene. This is in part due to its proximity to Athens (you can get here in two hours via a short ferry ride) and the car-free haven being featured in Sophia Loren’s 1956 film, Boy on a Dolphin, which attracted celebrities, artists (Leonard Cohen composed Bird on the Wire here), and writers seeking inspiration in its tranquil setting. Hydra is characterized by its single town, which lacks paved roads and even bicycles, relying instead on donkeys for transport and water taxis for coastal travel. While day-trippers from Athens frequent the waterfront, the island’s inland is where local life plays out, and you can still find pockets of arty, laid-back communities of blow-in expats.

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Chuck a stone in any direction on Hydra, and you’ll hit a romantic home that would make the perfect hideaway for writing a novel. You really are spoilt for choice on the island, but keep in mind that vacation rentals book up quickly, especially in the summer months, so plan ahead to snag your dream home. This top ten percent Airbnb called “Villa Francesca” sleeps eight and is a short walk from Hydra harbor. The sea-facing home was built in the 1950s and was recently fully restored. Set in a beautiful Mediterranean garden of citrus, olive, cypress, and bougainvillea trees, the three-bedroom has three separate terraces that complement the living spaces indoors. If you’re considering penning a melodrama, this restored ruin brings all the drama. The beautifully renovated three-bedroom has a huge garden overlooking the island and a swimming pool. Just promise me you’ll have a fabulous ice-cold martini at sunset if you book a stay.

Eight guests, four bedrooms
Price: $842 per night

Photo: Karel Funda/Shutterstock

The romantic sibling of Capri, Ischia’s reputation as a wellness retreat rooted in its ancient Roman thermal spas continues to draw visitors seeking rejuvenation. The volcanic island shares the Bay of Naples with the glamorous sister island of Capri, but it only has a fraction of footfall. If you’re looking for something beyond a conventional beach vacation, you’ll find hard not to fall in love with Ischia’s landscape of lemon groves, vineyards, and olive trees is a rugged beauty. It has long been favored as a retreat for Neapolitans as it’s situated a short distance from Naples. Ferry trips to the island take just over an hour, making it a relatively accessible yet distinctly different experience than the mainland.

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

This two-bedroom villa has an infinity pool that hangs over the Bay of San Francesco on the western coast of Ischia. It has panoramic terraces overlooking the ocean, and a family-friendly beach is within five minutes walking distance. For an extra bedroom, this dreamy three-bedroom villa has a beautiful garden with a pizza oven and grill. It’s minutes from one of the major attractions, Castello Aragonese d’Ischia, where you can dine from the castle terrace with a view over the island.

Four guests, two bedrooms
Price: $322 per night

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Sardinia, the Mediterranean’s second-largest island and an autonomous Italian region, is world-famous for its stretches of fine sand reminiscent the Caribbean. The northern Costa Smeralda, well-known for its clear waters and luxury marinas (and celebrity visitors), contrasts with the southern coasts around Costa Rei and Costa del Sud, which are less glitzy and more accessible from Cagliari, the island’s capital. Getting here will involve flying into mainland Italy, followed by connections to Sardinian airports in Cagliari, Alghero, or Olbia. Or, if you have the means, you can rent a megayacht and cruise on into the millionaire’s playground of Smeralda.

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

You’ll want to be close to the Emerald Coast on Sardinia, and luckily, many of the Guest Favorite Airbnbs tick that box. This three-bedroom cottage is named “S’ispantu,” which means “wonder” in Sardinian. It’s within a nature refuge and is surrounded by breathtaking views of the sea and mountains. The rural property is only ten minutes from the amenities of Arzachena, but it feels like a world away. The interior is light and airy with olive wood furnishings, and there are three panoramic terraces, two pools surrounded by rocks, and a Jacuzzi. Or, if you’d rather be on the waterfront, check out this three-bedroom seaside home in one of the most beautiful spots of Santa Teresa Gallura, overlooking the Strait of Bonifacio.

Six guests, three bedrooms
Price: $746 per night

Photo: DaLiu/Shutterstock

Off the toe of Italy’s boot, Sicily is one of the most naturally beautiful regions of the country and one of the most culturally diverse places in Europe. The island’s architecture, language, cuisine, and cultural traditions have been influenced by many civilizations over the centuries, including the Phoenicians, Greeks, Arabs, Normans, Romans, and British. Sicily is — to put it simply — a very special place. From world-class vineyards built on volcanic soil and pretty fishing villages, which are still traditionally operated, to seasonal farm-to-table restaurants, there’s a lot to enjoy on vacation here.

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

For Sicily, you might think you must choose between the city, the countryside, or the beach. But in my experience, you should do them all. Especially if you’ve flown from the US and are unlikely to return to the island, you need to experience everything. Remember, Sicily is not huge; you can easily do a week-long road trip. The coast will blow your mind, but so will the capital of Palermo (especially if you’re a foodie).

So consider starting in the city, and for that, please, for the love of arancini, choose an Airbnb with character. This particularly special rental is situated in the Politeama Libertà district of Palermo. Close to many of Palermo’s most popular attractions, such as the Teatro Massimo and the Palazzo dei Normanni, this area of the city is also home to some of the best shopping, dining, and entertainment options. The sensational Airbnb is located on the second floor of an Art Nouveau building. The entire apartment has been renovated, maintaining the Art-Nouveau style of the exterior. No detail has been overlooked here, and it’s clear this space has been curated with love by an artist and book lover. Iconic Sicilian tiled floors can be found throughout, and design-focused furniture, stacks of books, and pretty terraces make this one of the most impressive Airbnbs in Palermo.

For a coastal stay, this boutique villa (pictured above) is one to bookmark. The six-bedroom top five-percent Airbnb offers 360-degree views over the countryside, mountains, and ocean. It’s a prime spot for taking in the dramatic pink Sicilian sunsets and is surrounded by meadows of native flowers and ancient olive trees.

12 guests, six bedrooms
Price: $947 per night

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Spain’s Balearic Islands have been tarnished with the reputation of being the most sought-after party capitals in the world. It’s an undeniable part of the culture. But if that is not your scene, then don’t let it put you off. Like any destination, you can dip into cultural activities, and if you want to avoid the sunburned day drinking Brits you can. And it’s really not that difficult. On Mallorca, just steer clear of Magaluf. There are many ways to enjoy the island responsibly. Mallorca’s many quiet corners offer a far more authentic taste of the lifestyle. If you are willing to scratch beneath the surface, you will enjoy not only the sun, sea, and sand but also one of the region’s most beautiful and culturally rich islands.

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Throughout my suggestions on where to stay, I’ve harped on about why you should opt for a rental away from tourist areas, and I’m repeating myself because, for the Balearic Islands, this will make or break your vacation. Having a baller pad where you can retreat away and lounge by a pool in privacy, cook feasts from local produce, and take in the sunsets with a cold beer that doesn’t cost over ten euros is heaven on earth. For groups, check out this top one percent four-bedroom property in the heart of Deià, one of Mallorca’s most picturesque and charming villages. This prime location allows a leisurely two-minute walk to the town center and nearly all of Deià’s restaurants. The manor house was built in 1618 and features Late Renaissance and Italian Mannerist architecture. It overlooks the oldest part of the village, with the Mediterranean Sea as its stunning backdrop. Another group option is this renovated early-1900s farm-style three-bedroom house in the Sóller Valley. Traditional accents have been retained, but the conversion is outstanding, with top-notch appliances and a pool surrounded by a gorgeous garden.

Eight guests, four bedrooms
Price: $898 per night

Photo: Balate.Dorin/Shutterstock

Much like Mallorca, Ibiza has hedonism, laid-back pretty villages, and hidden coves in equal measure. You can dance until the sun comes up (or mid-day) at beach clubs, or hide away in the White Isle’s hippy retreats, simply relax on out-of-the-way dream beaches, or in the island’s interior of fragrant pines, ancient olive trees, and sleepy whitewashed towns.

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

Photo: Airbnb

It’s equally important to have a grand abode in Ibiza. If you’re going to “do” Ibiza, you should do so in style. This bohemian-chic four-bedroom villa is in Sant Josep de sa Talaia, a beautiful village in the west of Ibiza, in the foothills of Sa Talaia. It’s part of a gated community with a gym and spa for guest use. Within a ten-minute stroll, you’ll reach Cala Conta beach with its crystal clear azure blue water, where you can dine at the famous restaurant Sunset Ashram. For couples or solo travelers, this one-bedroom casita in Cala de Sant Vicent in the northeast of Ibiza is a great find. With its sweeping bay, golden sands, and crystal-clear waters, Cala de Sant Vicent is ideal for families, couples, and anyone looking for a more serene Ibiza experience. The casita has its own entrance and terrace, and there’s a communal pool, outdoor bar, BBQ, and dining pergola for socializing.

Eight guests, four bedrooms
Price: $894 per night