Named after King Louis XVI of France, Louisville was founded in 1778 and is the biggest city in Kentucky today. With vibrant neighborhoods, delicious cuisine, and warm southern hospitality, Louisville makes a great vacation destination for all types of travelers.
Louisville is most famous for the Kentucky Derby hosted at Churchill Downs each May, but there are plenty of other things to do even if you’re not interested in horse racing. History buffs can enjoy the many museums while foodies can eat their way through top restaurants. It was the only city in the United States to make Zagat’s list of “8 Awesome Foodie Getaways Around The World,” and it produces one-third of all the Bourbon in Kentucky!
Plus, there are loads of fantastic Airbnbs in Louisville. Finding your dream vacation home might seem overwhelming, so we have compiled a list of the 12 best Airbnbs in Louisville to make your decision just a little bit easier!
Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through one of our links we may earn a small commission (don’t worry, it’s at no extra cost to you).
Top 10 Things To Do in Louisville
- Watch the races at Churchill Downs, the facility that hosts the annual Kentucky Derby.
- Sample Kentucky Bourbon at one of the Lousiville many bourbon whiskey distilleries. We especially love the Stitzel-Weller Distillery and the Woodford Reserve Distillery.
- Visit the Muhammed Ali Center to learn about the legendary athlete and activist who called Louisville his hometown.
- Take a stroll through Cave Hill Cemetery to see Victorian-era monuments and mausoleums.
- Tour 17 miles of man-made passages via tram at the Louisville Mega Cavern.
- Visit the Conrad-Caldwell House Museum to see one of the best examples of Richardsonian Romanesque Architecture.
- See a Louisville Bats baseball game on their home turf at the Louisville Slugger Field.
- Visit the Louisville Slugger Museum and Factory to see how baseball bats are made.
- Check out the Kentucky Derby Museum to learn about the history and major figures of this important race.
- Take a stroll or rent bikes and go along the Big Four Bridge, Louisville’s iconic bridge over the Ohio River.
Why Stay in an Airbnb in Louisville
Staying in an Airbnb in Louisville comes with a lot of benefits. First of all, you’ll have the ability to connect with a local before you even set foot in the city. Locals in Kentucky are known for their kind Southern hospitality so your host will likely give you tips on the best attractions, tastiest restaurants, and hidden local gems that you wouldn’t find on your own.
Plus, there are so many fun and unique Airbnbs to choose from in Louisville! You can opt for a historic downtown loft, a quaint carriage house, or a Victorian townhouse. You can pick a vacation home that perfectly fits your vibe.
The economic value of an Airbnb can’t be beaten either. It’s much more cost-effective to split the price of a single large vacation rental if you’re traveling as a large group. Plus, most of Louisville’s vacation rentals are much nicer and more spacious than your average hotel room!
Search Louisville Hotels and Vacation Rentals
The 12 Best Airbnbs in Louisville
Best Louisville Airbnbs for Couples and Solo Travelers
1. Fashionable Flat in Downtown Louisville
With a fashionable design and ideal location in the heart of downtown, this modern one-bedroom apartment is one of the best Louisville Airbnbs for couples and solo travelers.
It features an open floor plan with exposed brick walls and large windows that let in lots of natural light. In the main space you’ll find a living room with a smart TV equipped with Netflix for catching up on your favorite shows. The kitchen comes stocked with cookware, stainless steel appliances, and a Keurig coffee maker, and there’s a homey dining table for enjoying group meals or simply relaxing.
When you’re ready to sleep, you’ll love the cozy queen-sized bed in your private bedroom. The bathroom is sparkling clean with a bathtub/shower combo. There’s also a washer and dryer inside the apartment for your convenience.
The location of this Airbnb can’t be beat if you want to experience Louisville’s nightlife. There are bars, restaurants, nightlife, and live music venues right outside your front door!
2. Germantown Home with Hot Tub
Enjoy a relaxing getaway in this newly remodeled Germantown home, complete with all the amenities you need for a fantastic stay. Your group will love spending evenings relaxing in the hot tub or roasting marshmallows around the fire pit.
There’s a large common area inside for entertaining family and friends with a cozy fireplace, beautiful art pieces, and an oversized sectional leather couch. Put on your favorite movie on the flat-screen TV or grab a new book to read from the shelf.
The kitchen is fully-equipped, with a custom-made bourbon barrel light, a dual fuel range, and a Keurig coffee maker. There’s a large glass door that lets in plenty of natural light and opens up to a side deck where you’ll find a grill. This outdoor patio is the perfect space for entertaining as it features a fire pit, a ping pong table, and a hot tub. It’s the perfect place to unwind with a glass of wine!
This Airbnb is in Germantown, a tiny hamlet built in the early 1900s. Many of the old buildings remain, but there’s been a rebirth and revitalization in the area so there are lots of local restaurants and pubs within walking distance. It’s an excellent location for exploring other neighborhoods as well, as it’s nestled between the Highlands, Nulu, and historic Old Louisville.
3. Derby City Loft
Originally built in the 1890s, the Derby City Loft has a modern yet historic feel with original wood floors and exposed brick walls. The building was once home to Byck’s Department Store which was a popular place for women to shop in the early to mid 20th century. It has since been updated with all the amenities you’d expect while still retaining its original character..
This 900-square-foot loft has an inviting ambiance. Cook up a meal in the newly remodeled kitchen and enjoy it on the dining room table or kitchen bar. The living room is the ideal place to relax as there are plenty of couches and a collection of books to choose from. With 1 bedroom and 1 bath, this Airbnb would be perfect for a couple or a solo traveler.
This Airbnb is in the heart of downtown Louisville and within walking distance to shops, restaurants, bars, and 4th Street Live. You’ll be right near the YUM! Center and the Kentucky International Convention Center, and less than 10 minutes from Churchill Downs.
4. The Waverly: Modern Clifton Carriage House
Full of natural light and a variety of artwork, this brand new carriage house is a perfect Louisville Airbnb for those looking for a convenient and comfortable stay.
Inside you’ll find all of the comforts of home in this artistic, modern space. There’s a full-sized kitchen with stainless-steel appliances and all the cookware you’ll need to prepare nice meals. It opens up into the cozy living room, furnished with a comfortable couch and a flat-screen TV. There’s even a desk if you’re working remotely!
You’ll have no problem getting a good night’s rest on the comfortable queen-sized bed in the private bedroom. Plus there’s a full bathroom with a spacious, luxury shower.
This Airbnb is in an eclectic neighborhood filled with musicians and artists. You’ll be within walking distance to coffee shops, restaurants, bars, and boutiques and the hosts are happy to provide a list of their favorites!
Best Louisville Airbnbs for Small Groups and Families
5. Renovated Pre-Civil War Home in NuLu
Designed by one of Louisville’s top interior designers, this pre-Civil War home is one of Louisville’s most unique Airbnbs. Every bit of this home was thoughtfully executed, with original lime-washed brick, refinished original floors, updated fixtures, and lots of modern amenities.
The main level of this home features a spacious open floor plan. It has a newly remodeled kitchen, a dining room table for 6, and a beautiful family room equipped with a foosball table and smart TV. Unique furnishings bring this space together, including custom white cabinetry, a brick fireplace, designer light-fixtures, and art pieces from a local gallery.
A spiral staircase leads you upstairs where you’ll find the two bedrooms and a bathroom. Both bedrooms are furnished with comfortable king-sized beds and TVs. And there’s also a great outdoor space in the private backyard! You’ll love spending warm evenings outside, drinking at the tiki bar and relaxing in the comfortable lounge chairs.
This Airbnb is in NuLu (New Louisville), an up-and-coming downtown neighborhood that’s often cited as the city’s hottest. You’ll be within walking distance of ample entertainment and restaurant options!
6. The Urban Craftsman
This stunning three-bedroom Airbnb in Louisville is a work of art. It’s full of unique touches that will make you feel right at home here. And the cute design may even inspire you to remodel your own home!
Relax in the stylish living room and choose an album to play from the vintage collection of vinyl records. Enjoy group dinners on the hand-crafted kitchen table made from salvaged bowling lanes from Louisville’s famous Vernon Lanes.
A salvaged spiral staircase from the Heaven Hill Distillery fire leads to a plush and private lofted suite with a king-sized bed and sitting area. There are two more bedrooms and a loft over the kitchen so this home has space to sleep up to 8 guests! The bathroom has hand-poured concrete countertops and terra-cotta bathroom floors designed by a local artist.
The outdoor deck is the perfect place to relax with friends and family at night. It’s a thoughtfully designed space with ample seating.
This Airbnb is just a stone’s throw to the famous Highlands Neighborhood, the festivities of NuLu, and the hip eateries of Germantown. It’s a perfect home base to explore Louisville’s vibrant neighborhoods!
7. Casa Omara: Designer Condo in Historic Building
If you’re looking for a unique Airbnb in Louisville, look no further than Casa Omara. This gorgeous property resides in a historic building that has been converted to condos. It has historic architectural features effortlessly blended with modern touches, Cuban influences, and all things Louisville!
It’s clear that the homeowners were exceptionally thoughtful in the design and execution in this Airbnb. It’s full of one-of-a-kind artwork, brilliant craftsmanship, hand-selected light fixtures, and so much more!
The kitchen has been newly updated with new appliances and wood countertops so preparing meals will be a breeze. The living room features ample natural light and a stunning brick wall backdrop. Enjoy movie night around the large smart TV or simply relax with a glass of wine and good conversation. This home also features an outdoor patio with seating for four.
Last but not least, this Louisville Airbnb is in a perfect location. You can walk to downtown, Nulu, or Butchertown in minutes. Restaurants, bars, distilleries, and nightlife are steps away but you’ll have plenty of privacy in your own hidden courtyard.
8. The Retreat in Germantown
Located in the heart of Germantown, this 3-bedroom townhouse is a perfect home base for your vacation in Louisville. It’s just blocks from downtown Louisville where you can find loads of restaurants and shops. You’ll also have quick highway access to get anywhere in the city. Plus it’s been completely renovated with no detail overlooked.
With a cute picket fence, you’ll fall in love with this home from the moment you arrive. The gourmet kitchen boasts marble countertops, stainless steel appliances, and handsome stained cabinetry. The living room has a hip, contemporary design and a foosball table to keep your group entertained.
Each of the 3 bedrooms are furnished with plush queen-sized beds. The bathroom has been beautifully updated with marble counters, new flooring, and a shower fit for a queen with independent controls for two shower heads!
Best Louisville Airbnbs for Large Groups and Events
9. High Above the Highlands: Funky Designer Home
With a 1500 square-foot rooftop garden overlooking restaurant row in the desirable Highlands neighborhood, this newly renovated home is easily one of the best Airbnbs in Louisville. You’ll be in the center of all the action right on Bardstown Road and within walking distance to dozens of restaurants, bars, and shops.
This stylish 5-bedroom home has been completely redone by the owners with thoughtful details throughout. It has everything you need for a memorable vacation including two fully equipped kitchens with full-sized refrigerators and granite countertops.
The kitchen opens up into the living room, where you’ll find sliding doors that lead to an incredible rooftop garden. As a guest, you are free to pick from the fresh herb garden that’s great for cooking or making cocktails.
The best part about this Airbnb is the outdoor space. The rooftop deck is a dream space for entertaining with two outdoor sectionals, a wicker outdoor dining table that seats eight, and a gas grill. Plus there’s another 1,000 square-foot rear rooftop deck with a couch and table. Hosting will be so easy here!
With 5 bedrooms and 3.5 baths, this home was designed so that everyone can have their own personal space while still having plenty of places to entertain. You’ll probably spend most of your time on the amazing outdoor patios, but the living room is also a great place to congregate. It features a large flat-screen TV and full-sized original Pac-Man machine just for fun!
10. Southern Gentleman: Luxury Home with Hot Tub
Located in the popular Highlands neighborhood with every amenity you could ever want, this luxury 5-bedroom vacation home is one of the best Airbnbs for large groups and families. Highlands is one of Louisville’s most sought-after neighborhoods and the best place to be for arts and entertainment. You’ll be within walking distance to restaurants, shops, and bars!
The stunning family parlor was built for relaxation and comfort, with a large sectional sofa, a 65″ 4k TV, and all new fixtures and finishes. The kitchen has been newly remodeled to be a chef’s dream with a gas range pot filler and high-end appliances. Enjoy group dinner in the stunning dining room that features seating for 10, a fireplace, and built-in cabinets.
The master bedroom is an oasis with a luxurious king-sized mattress, an original fireplace, and an ensuite bath with a deep soaker tub. The other 3 bedrooms are furnished with king or queen-sized beds and smart TVs. But you’ll most likely be spending your time in the 6-person hot tub, complete with high-power jets, mood lights, and a waterfall!
11. Renovated 4,000-Square-Foot Historic Home
This gorgeous 3-story historical home was originally built in 1905 and was completely redone in 2018. It now features modern decor that fits well with the original period details.
With over 4000-square-feet of space, this Airbnb is perfect for entertaining large groups. On the first floor is a fully enclosed front porch with a dining table, a large entry hall, a living room with a 70″ smart TV, a spacious dining room, and a well-equipped kitchen with state-of-the-art appliances.
The second floor is where you’ll find the master bedroom with ensuite, as well as 2 more bedrooms, a half bath, and a nook with a twin daybed. The third floor has 2 more bedrooms and another bath, so this home has enough space to sleep 14 comfortably. There is plenty of space for everyone to have their own privacy while still having shared spaces to gather.
This Airbnb is in a great location to explore Louisville. It’s in a walkable neighborhood with dozens of restaurants, pubs, cafes, shops, parks, and activities nearby. It’s just 1 mile to the heart of downtown and NuLu, Cherokee Triangle and Restaurant Row are all within a 10-minute walk.
12. Stunning Victorian Home in Historic Old Louisville
Step back in time while staying at this stunning Victorian home in historic Old Louisville! It’s one of the largest Victorian communities in the United States.
As you walk into the house from the beautifully landscaped front porch, you will enter a foyer with gorgeous wooden details. Here’s you’ll find built-in seating for relaxing and 1 of the 8 decorative fireplaces. Next to it is the living room which features a large sectional and a smart TV.
From there, you’ll enter the spacious dining room with an antique dining table with seating for 8 and a posh china cabinet. There’s also a built-in nook for sitting next to the large windows – a perfect space to enjoy your morning coffee!
The kitchen features whitewashed cabinetry and a stainless steel stove. Right outside is a large screened-in porch and fenced-in backyard area where you can enjoy a foosball game or relax with your favorite book.
A wooden staircase leads you to the second floor where you’ll find 3 large bedrooms and 2 bathrooms. The master bedroom features its own bathroom with a two-person Jacuzzi tub. With 2 more bedrooms on the third floor, this vacation home can sleep up to 11 guests comfortably.
That’s it – 12 of the best Airbnbs in Louisville! Do you have a favorite vacation rental in Louisville? Let us know in the comments below.
Didn’t find the perfect Lousiville Airbnb? Try searching here:
Planning a trip to Kentucky? Check out our favorite books and travel guides.