Repeatedly ranked as one of the top places to live and work in the UK, York is pretty good for a holiday, too. Home to the largest medieval cathedral in Northern Europe, quaint shopping alleys, and the stunning county of Yorkshire right on its doorstep, it really is a no-brainer to visit. But where are you going to stay?
If you want to stay somewhere with the character and personality that matches the city, you should look at vacation rentals in York. Vacation rentals also offer excellent value for money and more features than you’d get in the average hotel or hostel.
With that in mind, we’ve put together a list of the best Airbnbs in York. Not only will you find the perfect place for your vacation, but we’ve also compiled the top Airbnb Experiences. Let’s take a closer look!
Photo: Nic Hilditch-Short
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Quick Answer: These are the Top 5 Airbnbs in York
Modern Two Bed Duplex
- > $$
- > 4 Guests
- > Central location
- > Self check in
Love York Vincent Room
- > $
- > 2 Guests
- > Safe and quiet neighbourhood
- > Colourful private room
Unique Luxury Apartment – Coffee Yard
- > $$$$$
- > 2 Guests
- > Private courtyard with seating
- > Exposed wooden beams
Room @ the Top with Great View
- > $
- > 2 Guests
- > Private en-suite bathroom
- > Beautiful views
Cool Contemporary Room Central York
- > $
- > 2 Guests
- > Dedicated workspace
- > Unlimited Wi-Fi
What to Expect from Airbnbs in York
York is quite a small city in Northern England. However, it has a lot of choices when it comes to accommodation. In the city itself, you’re most likely to be looking at serviced apartments and bed and breakfasts, though there are a few townhouses.
Cottages tend to be a little further out of the most central neighbourhoods. You’ll find that the cost of travel in York is cheaper than other famous British travel destinations like London and Edinburgh, so your money could go further when it comes to your accommodation.
If you’re looking at serviced apartments, or larger/more expensive properties, you’re likely to be dealing with a business rather than a local host.
Photo: Nic Hilditch-Short
A country cottage is the dream for many Brits. Whether you’re on a staycation or you’ve travelled far and wide to get here, you should definitely consider staying in one!
If you can’t justify the price of a townhouse on your own or you don’t want to take up a massive property as a solo traveller, happily, there’s an alternative. You can instead search for a private room in a townhouse. That way you get the best of both worlds – a local host and a big saving budget-wise! It might not be as cheap as hostel in York, but it’s definitely affordable.
Budget wise, bed and breakfasts usually sit between a hostel and a budget hotel. However, some of the more boutique-style options can set you back a bit more. No matter how much you pay, these are often passion projects for their owners and boast lots of character and personality.
Photo: Nic Hilditch-Short
The Top 15 Airbnbs in York
We’re sure by this point you’ve been convinced that an Airbnb in York is a good idea. But which is the right one for you? Check out this list of the 15 best Airbnbs in York, and we’re sure your question will be answered!
Modern Two Bed Duplex | Overall Best Value Airbnb in York
Right in the heart of York, this apartment is perfect for a short break for up to four guests. You’ve got York Minster, the Shambles, and Betty’s Tea Room all within a stone’s throw. After a day of exploring, come back to a meal cooked in the fully equipped kitchen, or cosy up on the sofa and have a movie night. While this apartment can sleep up to four, it’s a really nice option for a couple.
Love York Vincent Room | Best Budget Airbnb in York
This colourful attic room is just ten minutes’ walk from central York. You’ll have your own set of keys, so there’s no need to disturb your host when you come home. As well as your room, you have access to the living room and fully equipped kitchen, as well as the garden when the weather’s good. From your room in this quiet neighbourhood, you’ve also got views over the city walls. All of this, and you’ll barely make a dent in your budget!
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View on Osprey View on REIUnique Luxury Apartment – Coffee Yard | Over the Top Luxury Airbnb in York
This stunning and unique apartment is one of the most beautiful Airbnbs in York. Just off York’s main shopping street, there’s no better location! Set over two floors, you have a huge lounge area for winter nights and a private courtyard when the sun’s out! The fully equipped kitchen and main bedroom are punctuated by exposed wooden beams, making for a truly stunning place to stay.
Room @ the Top with Great View | Perfect Airbnb for Solo Travellers
When people hear you’re a solo traveller, they’ll often recommend you stay in a hostel. However, we understand that’s not for everyone. A homestay is a great compromise as you can keep your costs low while having an authentic experience and meeting local people. The private room at the top of this townhouse gives excellent views across the city, and there’s tea and coffee in your room – ideal for chilling at the end of a busy day of exploring.
Cool Contemporary Room Central York | Perfect Airbnb for Digital Nomads
York is packed with cafes, so it’s perfect for a digital nomad. However, if you need your own space to work, you’ll be happy to know that this apartment offers unlimited Wi-Fi and a dedicated workspace for your laptop. Not only that, you have your own private en-suite bathroom, too. A fun fact about the building is that it used to be an ice-cream factory!
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Hide Yo’ Money!More Epic Airbnbs in York
Here are a few more of my favorite Airbnbs in York!
The Granary Cottage | Best Short Term Rental for Couples
Boasting a king bed, this cute York cabin-style cottage is perfect for couples on a romantic trip to York. It’s in a quiet location just five minutes from York city centre, and there are scores of restaurants and cafes that you can head to for a date nearby. The cosy interior has its own private courtyard, so you can chill out there together if the weather is good and admire the views of the nearby church!
The Old Schoolhouse | Best Airbnb in York for Families
A classic British home, this is perfect for families of any age visiting York. With space for up to six guests in this historic grade II listed building, there are plenty of mod cons to make your stay comfortable. The fully equipped kitchen is perfect for whipping up a family favourite, while the living room is a lovely place to enjoy a movie night after a busy day of exploring York. There’s parking on-site, too!
Cosy Cottage, Riverside Walk to York | Best Cottage in York
Here’s one of the prettiest and closest cottages to York city centre. Not only is it a short walk from the city’s attractions, but Rowntree Park and the hustle and bustle of Bishy Road, too. Space for up to three guests means that it’s the perfect romantic escape! There’s free parking on the street outside, and the outdoor space is south-facing. Meaning you get all the sun!
Luxury Period Townhouse in Central York | Best Townhouse in York
This beautiful Victorian townhouse is right in the heart of York. If you want to imagine you’re a star of Downtown Abbey, this is right up your street! It can accommodate groups of friends or family, with space for eight across four rooms. The historic home was built around 1850 and still retains period features like fireplaces and wooden flooring. However, the most up to date modern conveniences have been added since, and you’re assured of a contemporarily classic home away from home!
Versailles Gold King Room | Best Bed and Breakfast in York
While some bed and breakfasts are good for budgets, at the other end of the scale, you have decadent rooms like this. Inspired by the Royal Palace of Versailles in France, this is one of many themed rooms in a B and B just outside of York’s city centre. You can see the other rooms in this listing, should you prefer something different. In all rooms, breakfast is included, and it’s just just ten minutes walk from the centre.
Converted Rowntree House in the Shambles | Best Airbnb for a Weekend in York
Spending a weekend in York? Location is the most important thing, if that’s the case. From this apartment just off the main Shambles shopping street, you have all the city’s landmark attractions just a hop, skip, and a jump away. It also helps that this is a lovely place to come home to, with an open plan kitchen, living, and dining area. The house has a rich history, with one of York’s most famous residents living here in the 19th century.
Superb Location Next to York Minster | Best Airbnb Plus in York
Airbnb Plus properties are the best accommodations you can find on the platform. That purple seal of approval comes from consistently high reviews, hosts’ attention to detail, and even an inspection from Airbnb itself. This townhouse is right by the York Minster, and though it’s one of the most expensive Airbnbs on this list, it’s worth every penny. The 18th-century townhouse has a small courtyard garden and lots of period features. Perfect for families and groups of friends.
Romantic Artist-Designed Airbnb | Stunning Airbnb for Honeymooners in York
Another Airbnb Plus property, this is one of the most romantic Airbnbs in York. The restored townhouse has original artwork throughout and designer furniture – no less than you’d expect from a home that was styled by artists! The retro apartment is in the heart of York’s cultural quarter, so there are several restaurants and bars on your doorstep.
River View Studio in Heart of York | Best Short-Term Rental Airbnb
Looking for somewhere to stay in York for a month or longer? This serviced studio apartment overlooking the river might just be for you. Travelling for work? There’s Wi-Fi and a dedicated workspace, as well as a full kitchenette. You also have access to the building’s gym, so you can keep up your workout routine during your trip.
Stylish Townhouse Sleeps Ten | Best Airbnb in York for a Group of Friends
Travelling with friends? It’s important to have places where you can spend quality time together. This house has an outdoor seating area and cosy living area – so it suits all weathers! There’s even a fully equipped kitchen should you want to whip up a meal rather than heading to a restaurant or ordering in. There’s a mix of singles and airbeds, so no need for uncomfortable topping and tailing.
Photo: Nic Hilditch-Short
What To Pack For York
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for an Airbnb stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Don’t Forget Your York Travel Insurance
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
Final Thoughts on York Airbnbs
So, there you have it. Not only have you seen 15 of the best Airbnbs in York, but the most fun experiences, too. Whether you want to stay in a cosy bed and breakfast, a Georgian townhouse, or a country cottage, there’s a B&B in York for you.
Still finding it hard to make your mind up? If that’s the case, just go for our overall best value Airbnb in York. That’s the modern two bed duplex apartment. From its location in the heart of York, it’s easy to access all of the city’s coolest neighbourhoods and attractions.
We hope whichever Airbnb in York you choose, you have a fantastic vacation. To make sure you (and your belongings) are safe, check out World Nomads to get a fair quote on your travel insurance.
Photo: Nic Hilditch-Short
- Check out our Backpacking UK guide for in-depth info for your trip.
- Use our Where to Stay in York guide to plan your adventure.
- Backpackers and frugal travellers can use our budget travel guide.
- Plan your trip with our guide to the best things to do in York.
- That will of course include many of the stunning National Parks of UK.
