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There’s a lot to like about Tampa, a city on the Gulf of Mexico very close to some of the U.S.’s highest rated beaches.
Home to famous tourist attractions, an incredible beach scene, and pleasant weather year-round, Tampa is an excellent destination for all types of travelers.
Whether traveling with family or friends, Tampa offers a wide variety of travel experiences. Hit up family-friendly attractions like Busch Gardens Theme Park and the Florida Aquarium, or venture out to the downtown streets for a bit of shopping and a stroll along the Riverwalk. If trendy nightlife and a stellar food scene are what you’re after, the Ybor City and Seminole Heights neighborhoods should definitely be on your radar.
Located on an ocean bay, locals and visitors alike love spending time on Tampa’s sandy beaches and enjoying the fantastic seafood. Tampa is true cultural melting pot, and thanks in part to a large Cuban ex-pat community, the city with incredible cuisine, music, and more.
As lovely and vibrant as Tampa is, it’s no surprise that the home rental scene is equally impressive. For a trip you won’t soon forget, make sure to book one of the best airbnbs in Tampa for home-away-from-home lodging.
Related Read: 9 Incredible Treehouse Rentals in Florida
1. The RiverShed
Why you should stay: Watch the gators go by from the comfort of your screened-in riverside patio.
- Sleeps: 2
- Minimum stay: 2 nights
- Rates start from: $96/night
In Tampa’s Seminole Heights, The RiverShed is an Airbnb Plus listing with a minimalistic and cozy interior. The natural sliding farm door, pops of pattern, and natural light add to this property’s charm. The home’s standout features include a screened porch with a hammock that offers fantastic wildlife watching opportunities; guests have spotted the occasional gator floating by in the neighboring river.
Wooden steps shrouded in Spanish moss take you down to a little riverside deck, and a flowering garden walkway leads the way to the house’s entrance.
Check AvailabilityRelated Read: These Scenic Train Rides in Arizona Will Blow Your Mind
2. Two-Story Cottage
Why you should stay: A quaint cottage with mossy oaks with access to the host’s swimming pool.
- Sleeps: 5
- Minimum stay: 1 night
- Rates start from: $85/night
This private two-story cottage in Seminole Heights sits behind the hosts’ primary residence. It features a yard complete with an in-ground swimming pool, secret garden, and patio seating area. From the home’s single bedroom, a balcony overlooks the surrounding palms and swimming pool.
There’s also a full kitchen, one queen bed, two sofa beds, and a living room to comfortably ensure everyone has room to spread out.
Check Availability“Michelle is quick to answer questions, and she provided us with freshly-baked cookies. She also had bagels, juice, and milk in the refrigerator!”
Related Read: 10 Best Cabin Rentals in Florida for a Relaxing Vacay
3. Artist Carriage House
Why you should stay: A cheery carriage house full of original art.
- Sleeps: 4
- Minimum stay: 1 night
- Rates start from: $51/night
This artist carriage house is a modernized, second-story suite decked out with pattern mixing, original works of art, and colorful decor sure to put a smile on your face. While this 1925 home is outfitted with modern conveniences, like a brand-new kitchen and high-end appliances, it still maintains its historical charm.
You’ll find original and restored hardwood floors throughout the home, and there’s a trendy antique clawfoot tub in the bathroom, too. And can you believe that price?
Check Availability4. Piccola Casa
Why you should stay: Romantic bungalow with an in-ground swimming in a peaceful neighborhood.
- Sleeps: 2
- Minimum stay: 2 nights
- Rates start from: $96/night
Piccola Casa is one of the best little airbnbs in Tampa if you feel like being transported to Italy’s rolling hillsides. Inspired by the traditional style of Italian villas, this little poolhouse turned guesthouse features a stone facade, baby blue stucco, and a beautiful stone patio.
During your stay, you’ll have access to the hosts’ private in-ground swimming pool, and there’s also patio seating and a grill for your use. This villa is located in Riverside Heights, a neighborhood about a ten-minute drive from the airport and centrally located to downtown.
Check Availability5. The Boathouse
Why you should stay: A rustic boathouse turned modern guesthouse with stunning skyline and water views.
- Sleeps: 4
- Minimum stay: 3 nights
- Rates start from: $99/night
The Boathouse is one of the more unique airbnbs in Tampa, stationed at the end of a private dock on the Hillsborough River with incredible views of downtown Tampa. While the home’s exterior imparts a rustic first impression, one step inside and you’re immediately greeted with a modern (and sparkling clean) interior.
The hosts equipped the house with a well-stocked kitchen, furnished front porch, and fishing pole for those who enjoy angling. Tampa’s main attractions like Ybor City and the downtown streets are only a five- or ten-minute drive away.
Check AvailabilityRelated Read: 9 Gorgeous Beachfront Airbnbs in Florida
6. River Haven
Why you should stay: Review views in trendy Seminole Heights starting at under a hundo a night.
- Sleeps: 2
- Minimum stay: 3 nights
- Rates start from: $98/night
The river haven is a small but mighty guest suite tucked away in a green part of Seminole Heights along the Hillsborough River. The interior is best described as Bohemian chic and features white shiplap walls, vaulted ceilings, and expertly curated finishes. The home has a well-appointed kitchenette and a screened-in porch with river views.
Check Availability“This place really catches you by surprise. As you walk the shell path around a garage you’re led to this “tiny home,” [surrounded] by lattice, ferns and little globe lights and then boom! You’re on a waterway and entering a tiny bungalow that’s so adorable and thoughtfully designed.”
7. Treetop Oasis
Why you should stay: A small but comfortable guest house with access to a pool and hot tub.
- Sleeps: 4
- Minimum stay: 3 nights
- Rates start from: $115/night
The Treetop Oasis is a luxurious getaway in the Tampa Heights neighborhood within walking distance to the Riverwalk. Outside, a beautiful in-ground swimming pool and connected hot tub welcome you to take it easy under a canopy of tropical plants and trees.
The hosts go above and beyond to provide guests with the comforts of home, including toiletries and welcome refreshments. The kitchen is small but very well-stocked with an oven, garbage disposal, and a dishwasher. The bathroom features a full tub with a rain shower head, and there’s a comfortable king bed and pull-out sofa.
Check Availability8. Big Tiny House
Why you should stay: Take in the sights and sounds of the vibrant Ybor City district in a stunning tiny(ish) home.
- Sleeps: 2
- Minimum stay: 2 nights
- Rates start from: $101/night
The Big Tiny House is one of the more picturesque airbnbs in Tampa, on a well-manicured front lawn complete with white tongue and groove walls, neutral tones, and classic design. Out front, a patio with seating for two offers a cozy place for people watching.
The property is in Ybor City, a National Historic Landmark District and one of the city’s most diverse, artistic, and lively parts of town – it’s a very popular neighborhood and you can walk to many major landmarks from the home. That said, the hosts are understanding of the home’s busy location and provide guests with new earplugs and a noise machine to block out any street noise from outside.
Check Availability9. Mediterranean Getaway
Why you should stay: A roomy home with a lush yard, bright interior, and great outdoor living space.
- Sleeps: 6
- Minimum stay: 4 nights
- Rates start from: $146/night
Escape to this wonderful Mediterranean getaway if everyone in your group wants plenty of space to spread out. This three-bedroom home is in a prime location between downtown and Ybor City and is within walking distance to fantastic local restaurants.
It features bright warm tones inside as well as a gourmet kitchen with stainless steel appliances and a massive fridge. There’s also an indoor fireplace in the largest bedroom and a balcony and ground floor covered patio.
Check Availability10. Ybor Roost
Why you should stay: An urban farmhouse with thoughtful touches and roaming chickens.
- Sleeps: 4 nights
- Minimum stay: 7 nights
- Rates start from: $116/night
The Ybor Roost is a unique Tampa airbnb in the heart of the city, but you’ll feel like you’re in the countryside. The interior has in warm colors and feature a sliding farm door and an eclectic collection of art. In the yard, there’s a fire circle and free-range chickens guests can feed at their leisure.
Check Availability“It was clean, stylish, comfortable, and peaceful! The location is incredible. Short walk to the coolest restaurants and bars in Ybor Street. Yet far enough where you can find that peace and quiet that allows you to rest and recharge for the next day or your next adventure!”
Plan Your Trip to Tampa, Florida
With your reservation at one oof the best airbnbs in Tampa in hand, it’s time to get to travel planning. Here’s a starter guide to the best things to do in Tampa
- Plan a trip to famous attractions like Busch Gardens, the Tampa Aquarium, Hyde Park, the Tampa Riverwalk, and Heights Public Market.
- Museum hop and visit the Tampa Museum of Art, the Glazer Children’s Museum, and the Henry B. Plant Museum.
- Hit the beach and work on your tan at Ben T. Davis Beach, Sand Key Park, and Clearwater Beach.
- Check out nearby natural attractions like Hillsborough River State Park, Lettuce Lake Park, and Lower Hillsborough Wilderness Preserve.
- Rent a boat to take out on the water or hit up one of the local golf courses.
- Wander the city’s different neighborhoods to experience Cuban and Latin culture in Ybor City, eat at incredible joints in the hip hood of Seminole Heights, and stroll the charming streets of SoHo and Hyde Park.
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Seen in: Florida, Southeast, Where to Stay
