Planning a trip to Michigan and searching for the coolest and BEST Airbnb Traverse City rentals? Well, you’ve come to the right place. I’ve compiled this ultimate list of vacation rentals, cabins, cottages, and unique stays that will take your trip to the next level.
Traverse City is located in Northern Michigan on the beautiful shores of Lake Michigan. It’s known as the “Cherry Capital of the World”, but grapes are also grown here, which yields some pretty incredible wine.
It has a small-town beach vibe, a buzzing downtown area, and a nice selection of wineries to visit. The city also offers some of the best Airbnbs in Michigan. They showcase the local charm of “Up-North” and are the perfect place to make memories. It’s the total package for holiday goers and is an ideal destination for a weekend getaway year-round.
The Best of Airbnb Traverse City, Michigan
Let’s kick off this guide with a quick look at the top five properties in Traverse City. Of course, all of the options included are quite spectacular, but these Airbnbs especially stand out!
- Best Traverse City Airbnb For Families – Wren House—Historic Farm Surrounded by Countryside
- Best Located Airbnb in Traverse City – TC Capri 316 in New Development Near Front Street
- Coolest Airbnb Traverse City Cabin – Hygge Up North Cabin STR20-00053
- Best Airbnb in Traverse City Rental For Friends – Chic Midtown Traverse City Getaway
- Most Unique Airbnb in Traverse City – Country-Style Loft in Revamped Cigar Box Factory
Also, be sure to read my guides on the Best Music Festivals in Michigan, Best Glamping in Michigan, and Best Secluded Cabins in Michigan for more future trip inspiration!
Top Neighborhoods for Traverse City Airbnb Rentals
Traverse City is a fairly small city. Although, you might think differently if you visit during the summer months when tourism is at its peak. There aren’t many different districts; most Airbnbs are located in the two listed below.
Grand Traverse County: This is where Downtown Traverse City is located. It’s easily the most happening area of the city and features countless shops, restaurants, bars, and other tourist attractions. Most Airbnbs are concentrated around the downtown area, or just a short drive away.
Leelanau County: If you’re looking for a quiet area to base your trip, Leelanau Country is for you. It’s well suited for nature lovers and wine drinkers. The popular Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is located in Leelanau County, as are other scenic lakefront locations and wineries.
Top 15 Airbnbs in Traverse City, Michigan
Let’s dive into the best Traverse City vacation rentals. By the time you’re done reading this, you’ll definitely have found the perfect base for your Northern Michigan adventure.
Light-Filled South-Facing Downtown Traverse City Condo
Location: Downtown Traverse City
Airbnb Plus: Yes
Superhost: Yes
Price: $141+ USD per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/plus/28611908
This might just be the very best Airbnb rental in all of Traverse City! It’s affordable yet luxurious, centrally located, and backed with stellar reviews from guests who absolutely rave about their stay!
“Conjure up gourmet meals in a full kitchen with stainless steel appliances, tiled backsplash, and granite countertops. This 1st-floor residence also has immaculate vinyl floors throughout. While in the living room, sliding doors herald a Juliet balcony.”
This one-bedroom/ one-bathroom condominium can comfortably accommodate up to 4 guests, and would provide a home-away-from-home feeling while you explore everything Traverse City has to oferr!
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Credit: Airbnb
Newly Restored Cottage Airbnb in Traverse City with Hot Tub
Location: Grand Traverse Bay
Airbnb Plus: No
Superhost: Yes
Price: $186+ USD per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/47818374
This two-bedroom / one-bathroom Airbnb can accommodate up to eight guests, so would be ideal for large groups of friends or a family retreat! It’s also one of the only Traverse City Airbnb rentals with a Hot Tub!
It’s walking distance to many nearby attractions like the Apache Trout Grill, has a well-equipped kitchen, and a SMART TV with Netflix. While the host states no big parties with loud music are allowed – they’ve included that they do welcome Bachelorette/Bachelor parties!
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Credit: Airbnb
Wren House—Historic Farm Surrounded by Countryside
Location: Leelanau County
Airbnb Plus: Yes
Superhost: Yes
Price: $400+ USD per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/plus/18197105
This charming Traverse City Airbnb provides the perfect home away from home environment, making it an ideal choice for families. The house sits on two acres of woodland, so the kids will have plenty of space to run around. When you’re ready to head into the city, you’ll be just a short drive away.
Between the three bedrooms and two full bathrooms, it can sleep six guests. The living room provides a nice social space and has a flat-screen TV for movie night. The spacious kitchen has all of the amenities needed for family meals.
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TC Capri 316 in New Development Near Front Street
Location: Grand Traverse County
Airbnb Plus: Yes
Superhost: Yes
Price: $100+ USD per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/plus/33289387
You can’t beat the location of this Airbnb. You’ll be just a short walk from all the excitement of downtown as well as the beach. The modern condominium has everything you need for a relaxing vacation. The living room is the perfect place to chill out after a busy day exploring the area. Rest your feet on the comfy sofa while watching a movie on the Smart TV.
If you feel like cooking, the kitchen has everything you need to prepare a feast, including an Amazon Echo to play your favorite songs with. The bedroom features a queen-sized bed and a TV. If you’re traveling as a group of four, the living room sofa folds out to sleep two more guests.
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Hygge Up North Cabin STR20-00053
Location: Grand Traverse County
Airbnb Plus: No
Superhost: Yes
Price: $250+ USD per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/24140893
As far as cabins in Traverse City, MI go, this one is hard to beat. It’s situated on two acres of forest property, making it perfect for a nature-themed retreat. Watch the wildlife from one of the two private decks while sipping your morning cup of coffee, tea, or hot cocoa (stocked in the full kitchen by your host).
Have a bonfire under the stars snuggled up around the firepit. Or, relax indoors around the fireplace. If you’re keen on a fun night in, you’ll find board games, puzzles, and a TV with Netflix in the living room. This cabin is perfect for a slightly more high-end Michigan glamping experience.
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Chic Midtown Traverse City Getaway
Location: Grand Traverse County
Airbnb Plus: Yes
Superhost: Yes
Price: $230+ USD per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/plus/29392201
This townhouse has everything you need for a fun retreat with friends. Between the three bedrooms and the sofa bed in the living room, it can accommodate eight guests. Have a game night in the living room with a bottle of wine. Or, switch the fireplace on and watch a movie using the Amazon Fire Stick. If you’re planning a beach day, the host provides beach towels, chairs, and an umbrella you can take with you.
The kitchen has all of your necessary appliances for whipping up something delicious, which you can enjoy around the dining room table or outside on the covered patio. If you’d prefer to eat out, the Airbnb is within walking distance of several restaurants and two local breweries.
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Country-Style Loft in Revamped Cigar Box Factory
Location: Grand Traverse County
Airbnb Plus: Yes
Superhost: Yes
Price: $475+ USD per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/plus/17826031
This loft apartment will add an extra special element to your trip. It’s tastefully decorated and features a spacious open layout. There are two bedrooms, both with a king-sized bed, and one with an ensuite bathroom. The large kitchen is well appointed with cooking equipment that makes mealtime fun.
The living space is saturated in natural light from the large windows. Relax on one of the blue sofas with a good book, or switch on the TV and watch your favorite show. On the patio, you’ll find a fire pit, a grill, and comfortable seating. It’s a very inviting space to enjoy a cool beverage after a day of sightseeing.
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Bluewater Bliss – Your Private Lakefront Retreat
Location: Leelanau County
Airbnb Plus: No
Superhost: Yes
Price: $100+ USD per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/31225234
This Traverse City cottage is as charming as they come. It’s located on Cedar Lake, just a few miles from Downtown, so you can enjoy the best of both worlds. Between the three bedrooms and the sleeper sofa in the living room, it can sleep eight guests, making it perfect for groups. There’s plenty of communal space.
The living room has two couches and large windows that look out onto the gorgeous lakefront. It connects with the full kitchen, so the chef in your group can cook and socialize at the same time The cottage has two private decks where you can grill out, watch the sunset, and enjoy some icy drinks. If you’re a fan of water sports, take out the kayak or canoe and explore the stunning lake scenery.
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Historic Suite
Location: Grand Traverse County
Airbnb Plus: No
Superhost: Yes
Price: $100+ USD per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/24039178
This luxurious loft apartment is located in the Village at Grand Traverse Commons, a historic 19th-century hospital turned sprawling shopping and dining hotspot. You’ll enjoy a one-of-a-kind stay in this well-appointed Airbnb.
It’s filled with modern charm, from the stylish and fully equipped kitchen to the lavish bathroom with a walk-in shower. The bedroom is upstairs in the loft, which you access via the stationary library ladder. It looks over the cozy living room, which features a TV and L-shaped couch where you can wind down watching TV.
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High-End Downtown TC Condo on Quiet Street
Location: Grand Traverse County
Airbnb Plus: No
Superhost: Yes
Price: $100+ USD per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/9138579
This spacious apartment will put you in vacation mode right away. It’s located on a quiet street, less than a five-minute walk from downtown and the beach. Both of the bedrooms feature flat-screen TVs, and the modern living room has a sleeper sofa and another TV.
The kitchen features all new appliances, and between the dining room table and kitchen bar stools, there’s plenty of room to enjoy your meals. This is the kind of place you’ll enjoy coming back to after a fun day exploring the city.
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Cozy Cottage. Quiet Whole House on Bike Trail
Location: Leelanau County
Airbnb Plus: No
Superhost: Yes
Price: $200+ USD per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/32792142
This modern cottage is located on the popular Traverse Area Recreational Trail (TART Trail). This scenic route leads right into downtown and also passes several picturesque areas on Lake Michigan. It’s the perfect base for walkers, joggers, and cyclists. When you’re not out exploring, you can rest your legs in the living room watching TV on the comfy blue couches. Otherwise, take in the natural surroundings outside around the firepit. The kitchen offers all your basic cooking supplies and there’s a table inside and outside for you to eat at.
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Peaceful Retreat Open Loft – Perfect For Couples
Location: Grand Traverse County
Airbnb Plus: No
Superhost: Yes
Price: $100+ USD per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/27137244
Enjoy a private, peaceful getaway in this spacious loft surrounded by the trees. You’ll stay in a residential neighborhood, just 1.5 miles from downtown Traverse City. The quiet setting makes it perfect for a couple planning a romantic getaway. But four guests can also fit comfortably thanks to the full-size futon in the living room. The bedroom is connected to the spacious living area, so you can watch TV from the comfort of the couch or the king-sized bed. Lastly, the kitchen has everything needed for fixing a local feast.
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Relaxing Lake Retreat
Location: Grand Traverse County
Airbnb Plus: No
Superhost: No
Price: $150+ USD per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/20407210
This is hands-down one of the best cabins in Traverse City for the outdoorsy type. It’s located on Huellmantel Lake, a popular spot for fishing, and guests have access to fishing boats during their stay. The secluded location will provide you with plenty of peace and quiet. And when you’re ready to head into the city, downtown is just a short drive away.
The two-bedroom cabin offers all of your typical homey amenities, like a spacious living room with a TV and a full kitchen. Enjoy a home-cooked meal outside on the covered patio and end your night watching the sunset over the lake.
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Chic Downtown Traverse — Hygge on Front
Location: Grand Traverse County
Airbnb Plus: No
Superhost: Yes
Price: $140+ USD per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/41025515
This sleek and modern condo has a great location. It’s just across the street from Grand Traverse Bay and a five-minute walk from downtown. The design evokes the Hygge lifestyle, which channels comfort and coziness into every aspect. The living room features soft colors, modern furnishings, and a Smart TV with Netflix and Amazon. The full kitchen is great for preparing meals and has a coffee machine for making your morning cup of java. Between the two bedrooms and two full bathrooms, the Airbnb can comfortably fit four guests.
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Modern Hilltop Retreat. Cozy Fireplace. Golf Course Views!
Location: Williamsburg, Michigan
Airbnb Plus: Yes
Superhost: Yes
Price: $131+ USD per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/plus/20661249
Alright, so this is located in a neighboring city, but it’s absolutely beautiful and well worth the mention!
This gorgeous condo offers a charming pastel-colored aesthetic where graphic artwork captures the mood of each unique room. Relax in the open living area where wood textures combine with contemporary fixtures and sit out on the private patio while you soak up the serene setting!
This is a two-bedroom vacation rental that can accommodate up to six guests, so if you’re traveling with a larger group of friends or family, definitely look into this pad!
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Credit: Airbnb
Am I Missing Any Traverse City Vacation Rentals?
Traverse City is the perfect place to soak in the beauty of Northern Michigan. It offers activities for all types of travelers. Go shopping and dining in the lively downtown district, visit a few scenic wineries for a tasting, and sunbathe on the quiet shores of Lake Michigan.
When you’re done enjoying a fun day out, these Airbnbs will be the perfect place to return to. They’ll keep the vacation vibe going strong during your whole trip.
By now, you’ve probably noticed that Traverse City has some pretty incredible Airbnb options. I included only the best of the best on this list. However, if you’ve stayed in one that you think deserves a mention, send me a message and I’ll see what I can do about adding it in.
Other Recommended Reading Beyond Airbnb Traverse City
To keep your travel bug alive, check out these other posts for awesome Airbnbs in and around Michigan.
- The 15 Coolest & Best Airbnbs in Detroit for a “Motor City” Getaway
- The 18 Coolest & Best Airbnbs in Cincinnati for a Queen City Getaway
- The 19 Coolest & Best Airbnbs in Toronto, Canada | Toronto Airbnb Guide
- The 17 Coolest & Best Airbnbs in Columbus, Ohio
- The 15 Best Airbnbs in Minneapolis for Sports, Food, Shopping, and Fun
- The 16 Coolest & Best Airbnbs in Indianapolis for an Epic “Indy” Getaway
- The 20 Coolest & Best Airbnbs in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Top 12 Airbnb Alternatives to Try For Your Next Vacation Booking
- The 16 Coolest & Best Airbnb Memphis Vacation Rentals For a Tennessee Getaway
- 15 Best Airbnbs in Pittsburgh For a Superb “Steel City” Getaway
