The 24 Dreamiest Island Airbnbs in the Mediterranean

The Mediterranean coast is peppered with thousands of islands. Greece alone has 6,000 islands and islets. Granted, many are inhabited, and without a private vessel, they remain a closely guarded local secret, but you might be surprised to learn of some postcard-perfect islands that European vacationers have relied on for a fix of island life for decades. Greece’s car-free haven of Hydra, where donkeys still rule the roads, and Italy’s volcanic Ischia remain uncharted — at least for many travelers from the US.

The Mediterranean islands offer the laid-back lifestyle synonymous with what we expect from Europe but on a grander scale. Whether you’re looking for world-class partying or a remote romantic small town surrounded by olive trees and vineyards, chic beach bars, or unsung secluded coves with turquoise waters, you’ll find it on one of the Med’s many islands.

Despite the popularity of Spain’s Balearic Islands, Sicily, and Sardinia, you can still find pockets of tranquility away from the main drag. One of the easiest ways to do this is by renting an Airbnb either outside the most popular island towns or by opting for a property that is an island sanctuary in itself. From pretty stone homes clinging to hillsides, renovated historic villas, and ocean-view luxury properties with infinity pools, these Airbnbs are breathtakingly beautiful. Here are some of the dreamiest properties for an unforgettable stay in the Med.

Croatia | France | Greece | Italy | Spain

KrK

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Emerging from the cerulean Adriatic Sea, Krk, Croatia’s largest island, is one of the most popular spots in the country. Because of this, I highly recommend visiting in the fall when the sea is still warm and the crowds have thinned out. Due to Croatia’s recent boom in tourism, that logic can be applied to the entire country. Unlike many of its 1,243 sister islands, under 50 of which have permanent communities, Krk is lively — to say the least. Accessible via a bridge from the mainland, Krk town is pretty, but its souvenir-laden streets aren’t for all. There are quieter spots like Punat’s tranquil bay, which shelters the islet of Košljun. To the south, Baška’s sandy beach caters to sun-seekers, and the village of Vrbnik, perched on cliffs, is a haven for those who prefer a more low-key local experience. Each locale, shaped by centuries of cultural exchange, contributes to Krk’s character, a mix-match of heritage and modern tourism.

Luxury villa in the village of Žestilac

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Stick to small villages and away from the main town of Krk for a low-key island getaway. This luxury villa is in the village of Žestilac, under two miles from the beautiful pebble-stone Petrina beach. The four-bedroom is good value for money, considering it has a pool, sauna, and wine cellar. The family villa is divided into three floors, so there’s plenty of space indoors (and out) for a group of eight. Another luxe option is this four-bedroom home in the hamlet Bajčići or this stunning modern sea view villa within walking distance of the charming village of Klimno. For something smaller, couples or small families should check out this pretty stone home with a pool in the tiny town of Sveti Ivan Dobrinjski. All of these rentals are within driving distance of the town of Krk, meaning you can pop in for dinner and retreat to the countryside for a peaceful night’s sleep.

Eight guests, four bedrooms
Price: $489 per night

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For a city stay, check out Airbnbs in Dubrovnik

Hvar

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Hvar draws a sophisticated crowd with its refined coastal lodging, dining establishments, and stylish waterfront bars, where arrival by boat is the norm. The island caters to those who appreciate luxury in a relaxed setting. The southeast’s Hvar Town is the island’s hub for upscale dining and evening entertainment, where lodging options reach capacity during peak season. But just outside town, you’ll stumble across beautiful historic villages with stone houses, wineries, and jaw-dropping sea views. Staying on the outskirts means you can dip in and out of the “scene” and return to your vacation rental surrounded by lavender fields and olive groves. The island is accessible via ferry from Split or Drvenik on the mainland, offering daily connections that vary seasonally.

Rustic villa in the historic ghost town of Malo Grablje

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Accommodations in Hvar can be pricey compared to other places in the country. But your dollar will go further in the Croatian islands than in other European isles such as Sardinia or the Balearics. For a rustic yet chic stay, have a look at this family-owned villa in Malo Grablje. The village has a fascinating history. It was deserted in the 1960s when a vine disease wiped out the grape crops. The residents, who relied on the industry, relocated to the coastal settlement of Milna, but today, you can wander through the village’s hauntingly beautiful ruins or, indeed, stay in one of the restored homes. The historical old stone house is around a mile from the beaches of Milna Bay and has an outdoor heated pool, Jacuzzi, sauna, small gym, BBQs, and three bedrooms. Another equally beautiful rental is this four-bedroom on one of Hvar’s most spectacular stretches of coastline. With its elegant interiors, breathtaking views, direct sea access from the tired garden, and walking distance to the village of Ivan Dolac, this is one of my favorite Airbnbs on the island. Many of the Airbnbs in Hvar are on the larger side. You can find compact modern apartments, but the decor can often be a little dated. For couples, you might find a suite like this a better option. It has everything you need in a rental: a kitchen and a pool, and the interior is as chic as a high-end hotel.

Eight guests, three bedrooms
Price: $623 per night

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Corsica

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Known as the Ile de Beauté (the Island of Beauty), Corsica is far from a secret for Europeans. Yet, despite being accessible via a relatively short flight from mainland France, it remains less frequented by travelers than islands such as Sicily or neighboring Sardinia. Corsica is a one-stop shop catering to families, outdoor enthusiasts, and couples looking for a romantic hideaway. The stunning coastline is complemented by charming hilltop villages, UNESCO World Heritage sites, a thriving local wine industry, pristine white sand beaches, and the opportunity to discover secluded coves and hiking trails away from the crowds.

Traditional Corsican stone one-bedroom home

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You can have a lot of fun and while away an afternoon looking at Airbnbs in Corsica. Corsican homes are traditionally built from the island’s bedrock from locally quarried stone like granite and schist. This keeps homes warm in winter and cool in summer and integrates beautifully with the surrounding environment. This typical Corsican stone home is on a wooded property between the villages of Pigna and Corbara. The one-bedroom seamlessly blends into the hillside of rock and is a top-five percent rental on Airbnb. For more space, this sprawling modern villa (with five bedrooms) overlooking the bay of Valinco and the marina of Propriano will do nicely. It’s a few minutes from the most beautiful beaches and coves of southern Corsica and has panoramic sea and mountain views.

Two guests, one bedroom
Price: $347 per night

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Check out more dreamy Airbnbs in France

Crete

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Some say Crete is still off the radar. Those like myself who traveled there in the 90s might disagree, but Greece’s largest island remains my “go-to” for a vacation beyond the typical beach package the country does so well. Often referred to as the “Zeus” of the Greek Isles (it was the island of Zeus and Zorba, after all), many come to Crete for the history and to eat. The island’s Cretan olive oil, honey, and produce are among the nation’s best, and the winemaking is also experiencing a revival. The northern coast beaches have perfected the backdrop for luxury resorts, while the mountainous interior feels more authentic with traditional villages and archaeological sites. Reaching Crete from the US will likely involve flying to Athens and connecting to Hera

Katie Gavinمصدر