How to Master Finding your Perfect European Villa
Crete, Greece
A European summer can be oh so dreamy: long golden days, late-night dinners under the stars, and slow mornings in a sunlit piazza. But to truly soak it all in, for longer stays skip the hotel and opt for a summer rental. Whether it’s a villa on the Amalfi Coast, a farmhouse in Provence, or a chic Lisbon apartment, renting a home gives you the chance to live like a local. We have set aside the month of August to explore new destinations and immerse ourselves in new cultures. We most recently returned from spending our month in Crete, Greece. The weather, gorgeous. The people, beyond friendly. The sea, spectacular. And the food, nothing short of incredible. With each destination, we learn more and more how to perfect our stay.
Here’s your complete guide to mastering a European summer rental.
Start your search early - even earlier than you might think.
The best villas and apartments in Europe get booked fast—often 6–12 months in advance. If you’re eyeing hotspots like the Amalfi Coast, Greek islands, or Côte d’Azur in July or August, plan ahead. For last-minute trips, look at under-the-radar destinations: Puglia instead of Positano, Crete instead of Mykonos, or Spain’s Basque Country instead of Ibiza. These hidden gems offer better value and fewer crowds without losing any charm. The best summer rental destinations in Europe include Italy, Greece, Portugal, Spain, and France.
Define your non-negotiables.
Before falling for those Instagram-worthy photos, decide what you must have:
Air conditioning (not standard in Europe)
A pool or terrace
Walkability to restaurants, shops, or beaches
Reliable Wi-Fi (vital for if you are going to work part-time)
Many European villas and apartments are full of charm but come with quirks—steep stairs, tiny kitchens, ski slope drveways and often no dryer. Knowing your priorities will save you a bit of frustration later.
Ensure you have a trusted rental agency or platform.
While Airbnb and Vrbo are a great resource to start your search, consider curated platforms for luxury European rentals:
Plum Guide – rigorously vetted homes
OneFineStay – upscale villas and apartments
The Thinking Traveller – specialists in Italy and Greece
While curated luxury platforms can wow you with amazing images and often have access to hidden gems you won’t find on big platforms, be sure they actually have a local presence on-site. This is a non-negotiable we learned the hard way. For instance, we were on Crete and our “concierge” was in the South of France - this made everything take longer when and if an issue came up. Also, always ask for pictures of certain amenties if not featured in their photo gallery - for instance, we were assured there was a separate washer and dryer only to find ourselves at a villa that had a “2-in-1” washer-dryer. The last thing you want is your laundry to take 6 hours, or worse not even really dry properly. You may also want to confirm if there are any additional expenses beyond the rental cost; extra charges for heating the pool is common, confirm if cleaning fees are included, account for local taxes (very nominal, but good to know before you go) and understand the best way to get around (rental car, taxis, public transport, etc..)
Live like a local.
The real magic of a summer rental in Europe is slipping into the local rhythm. Shop at Provençal farmers’ markets, pick up fresh pastries each morning in Tuscany, or have a late nite dinner next to the sea. Unlike a hotel stay, a rental allows you to embrace small daily rituals that make travel unforgettable.
Be sure to Slow Down.
A common mistake? Over-scheduling. Renting a villa or apartment isn’t just about sightseeing—it’s about living. Block off days to enjoy your home: morning swims, long lunches on the terrace, lazy afternoons with a book, and early evenings in the pool watching the sunset. These quiet moments often become the highlights of a European summer rental.
___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Mastering a European summer rental comes down to three things: plan ahead, know your essentials, and embrace the local pace of life. Whether you’re in a chic Lisbon apartment, a Tuscan villa surrounded by vineyards, or a seaside cottage in Greece, the joy is in the details—fresh bread from the local bakery, laundry drying in the sun, or sipping wine as church bells ring in the distance.
This summer, if you have the time, don’t just travel to Europe. Live it.