Last Updated on: Apr 15, 2025
Finding the right vacation home can completely transform your next getaway — giving you more space, more privacy, and a more personal experience than a typical hotel.
But with so many websites out there, where should you start?
Here’s a list of the 8 best platforms to find vacation rentals online — whether you’re planning a beach getaway, a city adventure, or a cozy mountain retreat.
What We'll Cover
VRBO
VRBO (Vacation Rentals By Owner) is one of the original and most trusted platforms for booking vacation homes.
It offers a massive selection of properties worldwide — from cozy cabins to luxury beachfront villas.
You can easily filter by amenities like pools, pet-friendly homes, beachfront access, and more, with detailed guest reviews to guide your choice.
One of the best parts about VRBO is that it focuses exclusively on whole-home rentals — meaning you won’t accidentally book just a room in someone’s house when you’re hoping for complete privacy.
If you’re serious about finding a real "home away from home," VRBO should be your first stop.
Travelocity
While primarily known for flights and hotels, Travelocity also offers a wide range of vacation rentals.
It’s a solid platform to compare different accommodation types and often features competitive pricing and package deals. If you’re looking for convenience and potential savings, checking Travelocity is a smart move.
Airbnb
Airbnb is another popular choice, offering everything from tiny homes and treehouses to luxurious apartments.
It’s great for travelers looking for something unique or offbeat.
However, be sure to filter for "entire place" listings if you want full privacy, as Airbnb also features private rooms and shared accommodations.
Booking.com (Vacation Rentals Section)
While Booking.com is best known for hotels, they also have a massive and growing inventory of vacation homes, villas, and apartments.
It’s a great place to find deals if you’re booking last-minute, and many properties offer free cancellation for extra flexibility.
If you’re open to either a home rental or a hotel stay depending on pricing, Hotels.com is also worth checking out.
It features a range of vacation homes and condos alongside traditional hotels, letting you compare all your options in one place.
Vacasa
Vacasa specializes in professionally managed vacation homes, combining the convenience of hotel-style service with the comfort of private properties.
They offer dedicated local support teams and professional cleaning between guests, which can make a big difference if you want peace of mind during your trip.
Plum Guide
Plum Guide curates vacation homes with one of the most rigorous vetting processes in the industry \u2014 selecting only about 3% of properties that apply to list.
If you want a highly luxurious, designer-vetted home for a special occasion or extended stay, Plum Guide is an excellent (albeit premium-priced) option.
Bonus Options
Marriott Homes & Villas
If you prefer the brand trust and consistency of a major hotel chain but want the experience of a full private home, Marriott’s Homes & Villas platform is worth exploring.
They offer a curated collection of luxury vacation rentals, all managed to Marriott’s hospitality standards — perfect for travelers who want the best of both worlds.
Hotels.com
Hotels.com isn’t just for hotels — they also list a variety of vacation homes and apartments. You’ll find everything from cozy apartments and family-friendly homes to luxurious villas, often available at competitive rates.
It’s a convenient way to compare hotels and vacation rentals side-by-side, especially if you’re flexible with your lodging preferences and want the best deal.
With an easy-to-use interface, loyalty rewards through their Hotels.com Rewards program, and frequent promotions, it’s a smart choice for travelers who like to keep all their options open in one place.
Final Thoughts
When it comes to booking your perfect vacation home, it pays to explore a few different platforms — but starting with VRBO gives you access to one of the widest and most trusted selections around.
If you’re open to blending your stay between homes and hotels, platforms like Hotels.com and Marriott Homes & Villas offer additional options to tailor your trip exactly the way you want it.
Whether you’re searching for a beachfront escape, a remote mountain cabin, or a luxury villa, your dream vacation home is only a few clicks away.
The responses below are not provided, commissioned, reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by any financial entity or advertiser. It is not the advertiser’s responsibility to ensure all posts and/or questions are answered.
Honestly, I’ve had way too many issues with Airbnb lately, hidden fees, last-minute cancellations, and some places looking nothing like the pictures. I'm starting to avoid it
I’ve booked through VRBO a few times and it’s always been super easy and reliable...Love that they focus on entire homes, no surprises like when you accidentally book just a room
