The Best Luxury Vacation Rentals In Europe

Hi, my dear wanderlust friend! If unpathed waters and undreamed shores get your adrenaline rushing then keep on reading. So, just like you, I enjoy traveling and one common thing we share when it comes to travel check-lists is a trip to Europe. Blessed be my luck because I had the opportunity to visit Europe twice, covering different countries and cities. My experience both times were so different and exhilarating, that even for a writer, I’m at a loss of words. What made the difference? The place we decided to stay.

In my first Euro trip, we were filled with excitement and wanted to explore and visit every place possible in the short span of 15 days- whether Paris or Belgium. We had booked various hotels and would reach the hotel only to crash into our beds after a whole day of sight-seeing. But on our second trip, we were looking at a more relaxed trip and for a summer mixed with rest and good times. Our travel agent suggested we look into the options of a rental. With a massive, close-knit group of 20, rentals came as the best option. You feel right at home but with a touch of luxury.

Why Vacation Rentals?

Vacation rentals helped us in not only saving money but also allow you to truly enjoy the place as a local would. They give you your privacy and also allow you to spend your time leisurely at your place with sometimes cooking your own home-made food and enjoy your happy meal with your loved ones. Being in a foreign country and to enjoy a home cooked meal is a pleasure in its own! Besides, even if you’re going for a celebration like a wedding or a party, rentals offer you so much more for your money which otherwise in hotels would cost you probably a double.

Europe, especially, is famous for its rental options. Whether you’re looking for a loft by the riverside or a historic castle atop a hill overlooking the massive blue ocean body of Dubrovnik or 18th-Century villa basking under the Tuscan sun or even a chateau overlooking the vineyards of Bordeaux even a beachside house at Ibiza, the rental agencies in Europe can get you covered for all. If you’re concerned about the housekeeping or chef services then you needn’t be. Many rentals come with various options and amenities like Chef services, maid service, concierge service, airport pick up and drops and  more. The culture of rentals in Europe is definitely worth a try because I promise, once you go for it, you’ll return to it.

Here we have made a list of the best luxury vacation rentals in Europe, covering few of the best cities worth visiting and also the decorated rental companies and the properties offered by them which you have to check out before you plan your next trip to the luxurious and leisure land of Europe.

1. Villa Kaktus

Bodrum, Turkey

Home to an array of spectacular marvels, Turkey is a Mediterranean gem. Between its mountainous regions and crystal clear Mediterranean coastlines, you will discover a gem of a villa- Villa Kaktus. Placed in one of the most popular regions to visit, Bodrum. Villa Kaktus offers spectacular panoramic views of the mountains, coastline and town below. It is also situated at a fantastic location- quiet spot yet just a walk away from the hub of Kalkan town.

The four-bedroom villa checks all the tick boxes for a luxurious getaway in the beautiful city- whether ‘luxe’ facilities or serene ambiences. It has so much to offer for kids too, no matter what their age is. Fenced grounds, private outdoor and heated indoor pool by the games room, kids play area with a treehouse, swings and waterslides into the pool, make it a perfect villa for families and their children. The state-of-art is complete with lush interiors, modern and light furnishings. You’ll also find gardens and the beautiful kosk too- a seating shaded area that’s complete with a hammock, cushions and a classic Turkish Kilim (rug).

Amenities: All Bedrooms en-suite, Cinema room, Sauna, Gym, Hot Tub, Two BBQ’s for dining Al-fresco, Satellite TV, Working Fireplace, WiFi/Internet and many more.

Services Offered: Catering Available, Chef/Cook Available, Maid Service Available, Babysitting Available, Meal delivery service.

Occupancy: 10 people

Price: £2,369 - £6,211 per week

Book through: Oliver’s Travel

2. Cala d'Istria

Corsica, France

French coastlines are overflowing with beaches and turquoise water- offering the best climate and surroundings for water activities like snorkeling, sailing or swimming. Mountains, forests, ocean views, vineyards- you name it and you’ll find it in France. Corsica is one of the most popular tourist destinations in France and truth be told, why not. Mesmerizing and beguiling views which are calm and cosmopolitan all at once.

Whether you desire the comfort of your Japanese style garden overlooking the sea or the three-tiered heatable infinity pool or an al fresco dining, you’ll be making the most of these spectacular picturesque views from Cala d'Istria. The villa is an elegant, spacious and beautifully finished property in the Pianottoli region of Corsica. Cala d'Istria is complete with five bedrooms overviewing the blue waters and ceiling-to-floor glass sliding doors that open up to the magnificent deck area. The two-floored villa has a well-equipped kitchen and a designer fireplace. Moreover, it is just a walk away from a stretch of sandy beach and nearby to other attractions like the city of Bonifacio and Sartène.

Amenities: All Bedrooms en-suite, Library, Outdoor Kitchen, Barbeque, Private Parking, DVD/CD Player, Bluetooth Speakers, Piano, Trampoline, Kayaks, Bicycles, WiFi/Internet and many more.

Services Offered: Daily maid service, breakfast preparation, mid-week linen change, Chef, They Thinking Traveller Local

Occupancy: 10 people

Price: € 5,750 - € 17,820 per week

Book through: The Thinking Traveller

3. Villa Manda

Discover awe-inspiring national parks and medieval walls of Croatia. Croatia is truly a dream destination on the coast of the Adriatic Sea and it offers so much for your vacation soul. Whether you want to go island hopping while sipping your martinis or snorkel in the crystal clear waters or even party till the sun rises, Croatia is the place to go. One of its most popular destinations is Split- the place offers a stunning blend of ancient history and seaside promenades. One of  the most-sought-after villas in Split is Villa Manda which has played a host to many guests seeking a good sneak-peek into the Dalmatian lifestyle.

This villa was once a residence of noble political luminaries but today has been restored sensitively so as to preserve its natural classic aura and also give the contemporary vibe. The villa's grand marble entrance hall will leave you awe-struck and definitely give you an immutable sense of class. Luxury hasn’t come at a cost of comfort though. It offers plush, lounge sofas where you can spend your afternoon away before  hitting the sauna maybe. Villa Manda has for individually styled bedrooms- two with en suite and terrace. The nearest beach and stretch of bars and restaurants are just a stroll away where you can spend your lazy evenings.

Amenities: Private pool, Jacuzzi, Sauna, Safe, Security(CCTV), Gym, Barbeque, WiFi/Internet and many more.

Services Offered: Daily maid service, Daily grocery shopping service, thrice- a week linen change, daily towel change, final cleaning and laundry facilities.

Occupancy: 10 people

Price: From €7,780 per week.

Book through:  Abercrombie & Kent

4. Montana Del Aguila

Menorca, Spain

Endless sunshine, gastronomical food and glistening beaches, I present to you Spain. A country that boasts of architecture as diverse as the Sagrada Familia and the magnificent Alhambra, here you can forget the basic two room, kitchen, living room villas. This country is a treasure trove of luxury villas. One of such, situated in the wondrous town of Menorca, is Montana Del Aguila.

This magnificent property offers sublime views of the beautiful countryside and has various terraces and decks that offer space for lounging, al fresco dining and sundowners. The first floor has a striking feature- the Gran Salòn. This Salòn is a showcase of the owner's talent for combining vintage and pieces bought at auction with new bespoke and designer pieces. The villa is a 12 bedroom and 12 bathroom villa. Plush facilities like a heatable pool, games room, boules court, yoga room and others are the highlight of this villa. The villa is just 2 km from amenities at Es Migjorn and 3km from long sandy beaches and facilities at Santo Tomàs.

Amenities: Private pool, Barbecue, Plancha grill, Apple TV, Smart TV, Yoga Studio, Gym, Fully equipped kitchen, Pottery workshop with wheel, WiFi/Internet and many more.

Services Offered: Daily maid service, Chef Service, Pre-arrival grocery shopping service, Wine delivery, A range of wellness and beauty treatments can be arranged at the property or at a local, Personal laundry service, linen & towel change.

Occupancy: 28 people

Price: On request

Book through:  CV Villas

5. Podere Celli

Chianti, Tuscany- Italy

Soak in the delightful and rural beauty of this dreamy Italian escape- Tuscany. Known for its picturesque rolling hills,  world-class art from the Renaissance and medieval periods, flavoursome seasonal food and endearing hilltop villages, Tuscany is one of the most favorite holiday destinations of Italy.

A picture perfect luxury Tuscan villa, fully air-conditioned with private pools and chef service and also an authentic Italian culinary cooking experience for its guests is just the base of what Podere Celli has to offer. Hand-painted murals adorn the walls of the large air-conditioned en suite bedrooms. The courtyard is the crown jewel of the villa - with its elegant and spacious dining loggia and shaded living space. You will get to bask in the spectacular panoramas of the Chianti countryside. An enormous 52ft swimming pool is built in travertine stone and is set on the immaculately maintained lawn to the rear of the house. It also has a shallow pool for children or to savour the view. A pergola faces the pool and is well equipped with sofas and sun loungers, the idyllic spot from where to take in an unforgettable experience - Tuscan sunset. Podere Celli is within an hour’s drive to cities like Florence, Sienna, San Gimignano. You can also have your dream castle wedding at Podere Celli.

Amenities: Dining loggia, Transferable barbecue, Two fireplaces, Sauna, Ping-pong table. Central heating, WiFi/Internet and many more.

Services Offered: Daily maid 3 hour service, Chef Service, Babysitting, Shopping list,  Linen & towel change.

Occupancy: 22 people ( Various options are available)

Price: € 22,022 per week (Based on the no. of occupants)

Book through:  Tuscany Now & More

6. Crossing Together

Sicily, Italy

Sicily is one such place that'll never stop dazzling you. Besides good food, this place offers a little of everything- from historical wanderings to hikes. Sicily is truly timeless. It serves as a melting pot of cultural architecture - ruins of Arabian castles, baroque buildings, and Byzantine mosaic-covered archways, along with landscape of mountains, and some of the best UNESCO World Heritage, Sicily is your go-to holiday destination.

Crossing Together (Crossing the Rock and Casa alla Scala taken together) is one luxury villa indeed. It offers the best and spacious accommodation for large families or friends with whom you can intake the sensational views, panoramic terraces and a large pool. All of this amidst the authentic and beautiful fishing village, Santa Maria La Scala. Hence, it comes as no surprise that the place is walking distance from a range of seafood restaurants and rocky pebbled beaches. The 8 bedroom villa is exquisitely finished and furnished with direct sea access. There's even a golf course within striking distance if you fancy a round!

Amenities: 3 en suite bedrooms, Open Fireplace, Running Machine, Outdoor kitchen, Lift, Safe, Pool, Stereo facility, Laptop/Computer, WiFi/Internet and many more.

Services Offered: Daily maid service, Cook Service, Shopping facility, The Thinking Traveller local, Linen & Towel change.

Occupancy: 16 people

Price: € 11,610 to € 23,690

Book through: The Thinking Traveller

7. Ataraxia

*Sighs in despair* Aaah, villa holidays in Greece. Gets me daydreaming at just the mention of it. Cobalt blue waters, olive groves and a pace of life that goes against the lifestyle of the 21st Century. Corfu is one of the Greek islands and a leafy oasis just waiting to be explored. If you’re into historical monuments and buildings, be sure to pay a visit to the magnificent old town.

Ataraxia is a name derived from the Greek language which means a state of serene calmness. And if you ever thought, what’s in a name? Then I’m here to defy you, because Ataraxia is everything that it stands for. You’re greeted by wide open vistas as soon as you step into the property. Both the interior and the spacious terrace exteriors are imbibed with an atmosphere of tranquility. This 5 bedrooms beautifully stone crafted villa with its panoramic pool overlooks the bewitching Kassiopi town and Avlaki Bay

Amenities: Infinity pool, En suite bedrooms, Wood burning pizza oven, Barbecue, Outdoor kitchen, Private Parking, Exercise bike, Yoga mats, Running machine, Sony PlayStation, Internet TV, Stereo facility, Laptop/Computer, WiFi/Internet and many more.

Services Offered: Daily maid service, Cook Service, The Thinking Traveller local, Linen & Towel change.

Occupancy: 10 people

Price:€ 4,500 to € 13,950

Book through: The Thinking Traveller

8. Quinta Nautica

Algarve, Portugal

Boasting of a 2,000 km coastline, Portugal manages to bring together a huge spectrum of landscape within its slim frame. From charming coastal towns to sparkling blue oceans, Portugal is the perfect summer retreat. To add on it imagine, friendly locals, delicious Mediterranean cuisine,  welcoming culture and beaches at every corner! Algarve is one such place in Portugal.

Quinta Nautica, as the name goes, is a villa completely following the nautical vibe, right from the themes to the color scheme of blue and white. To complete the look, it is fringed by tall green palm trees. The villa is complete with its 5 bedrooms, a large pool, an additional children’s pool, a terrace, a games room for your entertainment and a lawn. This fully air-conditioned property has a warm and contemporary style and provides you with a panoramic view of the Atlantic in the distance. The villa is located five minutes from the local beach, restaurants and local amenities. With its modern furnishing and nautical theme, Quinta Nautica provides you with a distinctive sense of calm, light and space for you to enjoy.

Amenities: Outdoor dining area, Safe, Heatable swimming pool, Barbecue Facilities, Children's Play Area, Children's Toys, Computer Games Console, WiFi/Internet and many more.

Services Offered: Maid service 3 times a week, Cook service, Arrival set of bath and pool towels and bed linen (towel change mid weekly), Final Cleaning.

Occupancy: 10 people

Price: From €3,057 per week.

Book through: Abercrombie & Kent

9. Farleigh Wallop