Homes & Villas

Elevate Your Next Getaway in These 9 Vacation Home Stunners

by Karen Gardiner

Photograph by Karen Gardiner

costa del sol spain villa with water views

Let the sun shine in at your Costa del Sol, Spain villa. (Photo: Marriott International)

On your next trip, elevate your travel style by booking a vacation rental that deepens your experience of a destination — whether that’s because its location puts a city’s top diversions at your fingertips or its architecture and design immerse you in a region’s distinctive aesthetic.

These 9 home rentals are the perfect getaways for those who want to dive into local culture while relaxing in a beautiful home.

As always, check for travel restrictions and closures before planning your trip.

Enjoy Some of the Best Views in Costa del Sol, Spain

This bright and breezy one-bedroom Andalusian nest is an ideal couples retreat or solo hideaway. Costa del Sol views don’t get much better than the view from the terrace overlooking the sparkling water, and the property has a shared pool for when you’re ready to emerge.

Soak Up Sun, Surf and Beach Vibes in Costa Rica

The easygoing spirit of “pura vida” is synonymous with Costa Rica. This beach home brings that spirit to life. Bounce between the pool and the Pacific Ocean in Costa Rica at Casa Cocobolo, set on a Tamarindo hillside and surrounded by wildlife-filled tropical dry forest.

Check the surf conditions from your window and watch the sunset from your own infinity pool.

Immerse Yourself in a Modern Desert Aesthetic Near Joshua Tree, California

living and dining room near joshua tree
Enjoy clean, modern lines in this vacation home rental. (Photo: Marriott International)

Sandwiched between Palm Springs and Joshua Tree National Park, this modern, three-bedroom home boasts the clean lines and ample light for which the city’s architecture is known, as well as easy access to desert adventures.

Reconnect with Nature in Prince Edward County, Canada

There’s room for the whole family in this spacious, four-bedroom, pet-friendly home.

Leave city stresses behind and fall in love with the county’s beaches, parks, vineyards, organic farms, rural roads and rolling hills by going hiking, cycling, canoeing and fishing.

Catch the Sunrise Over the Beach in Huatulco, Mexico

beachfront villa at dusk with pool
Enjoy the sunset from your beachfront villa. (Photo: Marriott International)

This luxe beachfront home in Huatulco, Mexico, blends seclusion with easy access to recreation.

Watch the sun rise from your oceanfront infinity pool, stroll to the Copalita Archeological Park, and then take a short drive to La Crucecita for the art galleries and mezcalerias.

Celebrate Good Times in the Heart of the Big Easy

Let the good times roll in this five-bedroom home with private courtyard and saltwater pool that is perfect for parties, gatherings and reunions.

The home is located in downtown New Orleans, so all the Big Easy’s best food, music, architecture and festivals are exceedingly get-at-able.

Filled with historic character, this home’s architectural details include exposed brick, reclaimed beams and hardwood floors.

Live Like a Parisian in the Palais Royal

apartment in paris near louvre
Live like a local in the City of Light. (Photo: Marriott International)

This chic two-bedroom apartment in the heart of Paris lies opposite the Louvre and a few steps from the Opera district.

Housed in a former royal palace whose occupants have included Louis XIV and the Bonaparte family, this rental immerses you in the art, architecture and culture of the historic City of Light.

Revel in the Renaissance in the Heart of Florence, Italy

You couldn’t ask for a more appealing location than that of this three-bedroom apartment situated across from the Palazzo Pitti and a stone’s throw from Ponte Vecchio and the lively Santo Spirito district.

The property exudes the ambience of a traditional Florentine house with such architectural details as antique Tuscan furniture, terra cotta floors and a large fireplace.

Soak Up the Scene in Camps Bay, South Africa

cape town villa with water view
Soak up the best views in Cape Town. (Photo: Marriott International)

One of Cape Town’s buzziest beaches, Camps Bay is known for its white sand, natural rock pool and promenade of restaurants, clubs and cocktail bars.

This four-bedroom villa puts you in the heart of it all and has a Jacuzzi, infinity pool and plenty of space for the whole crew to gather after the sun goes down.