Planning a trip down to Tennessee? You’ll want to swing by Knoxville, and I’ve got the Vrbo & Airbnb Knoxville list for you to have a five-star stay…
Located in the east of the southern U.S state of Tennessee, Knoxville is a surprising city with a whole lot of heart.
Knowing for being home to the University of Tennessee and subsequently being a top college football destination, Knoxville is a historically-significant city that has moved with the times while still retaining much of its early nostalgia.
The original capital of Tennessee is now a humming urban destination, and a gateway to so much that makes Tennessee great. Gatlinburg, The Great Smoky Mountains and Dollywood are the perfect day trip away, or stick around and explore this historic city and its many attractions.
If you’re heading down to Knoxville for work or play, the first thing you’ll need is an exceptional Knoxville Airbnb or Vrbo to call home.
From downtown Knoxville luxury lofts to tiny house farm stays, my list of the best Knoxville Airbnb experiences guarantees a five-star stay to write home about.
Quick Breakdown of Knoxville Airbnb & Vrbo Rentals
I’ve broken down the five best Knoxville vacation rental offerings below, chosen to suit a range of budgets, group sizes and stay styles. Be sure to check these out, or keep scrolling to browse the rest of my picks.
- The Best Overall Knoxville Airbnb – Downtown 210 on Market Square w/Rooftop Access
- The Best Luxury Knoxville Airbnb – Cook Loft , 2200 Sq. Ft. Luxury Downtown Condo
- The Best Unique Knoxville Airbnb – HISTORIC & MODERN LOG CABIN at The Stables at Strawberry Creek
- The Best Cheap Knoxville Airbnb – Couple’s Retreat * Spa Shower * Private & Clean
- The Best Knoxville Family Airbnb – Home away from Home
I have also included in this list a range of video guides to Knoxville for you to watch for ideas on what to see and do in the Tennessee city. If you’re already down in the great state of Tennessee, I’ve also linked my other Tennessee content at the end. There’s so many great cities and towns to explore, but don’t miss its famous capital THE 15 COOLEST & BEST AIRBNBS IN NASHVILLE FOR A “MUSIC CITY” GETAWAY.
The 14 Best Airbnb Knoxville Vacation Rentals
Alright, now let’s dive into our selection! No matter what your budget or travel style, I’m sure you’ll find something here on this list that’ll perfect for your upcoming trip to Knoxville! It’s got a whole lot to offer visitors, and I’m sure you’ll love staying at one of these incredible Airbnb Knoxville rentals!
1) Downtown 210 on Market Square w/Rooftop Access
“The Best Overall Knoxville Vacation Rental”
Location: Downtown Knoxville
Price: $209 avg. per night
Sleeps: 4 (2 BR/1 BA)
With its prime ratings and central location, this listing is my pick for best overall Knoxville vacation rental! Clean, spacious and five-star rated, this two bedroom downtown Knoxville loft is one of the city’s most popular and in-demand properties. The modern and artistic space is located within a complex with a rooftop area with great views across the city. And its location seriously couldn’t be better, with the bright lights of Knoxville on your doorstep. Have a top meal at any one of the endless restaurants in the area, enjoy the many hip wine bars and breweries the area is famous for, or jump on the downtown trolley which picks up a block away and head over to the University of Tennessee during football season for a game. It’s right nearby.
Guest review: “You can’t beat this location when coming to K’ville. The availability of the roof top deck was terrific. The loft was clean & well equipped. I would stay here again and would recommend this place to others.”
Views Photos, Read Reviews & Check Availability
Credit: VRBO
2) Cook Loft , 2200 Sq. Ft. Luxury Downtown Condo
“The Best Luxury Knoxville Vacation Rental”
Location: Downtown Knoxville
Price: $550 avg. per night
Sleeps: 6 (2 BR/2 BA)
The Cook Loft is my pick for best luxury Knoxville vacation rental! This spacious stay is located right in the heart of downtown, and with its two cushy king sized beds and ample space for surplus sleepers you can rest assured that your group will be glad you picked this place. The loft’s layout spans some 2200 sq. ft. and is accented with chic interior design to compliment a long list of modern and luxurious amenities from the kitchen to the common areas. Originally built by the host’s grandfather in 1924, the entire property was remodeled in 2005 to add marvelous modern touches to a beautiful and historic home.
Guest review: “We rented the Cook Loft for a long weekend with visiting girlfriends. The location was perfect allowing us to walk to shops and restaurants. The living area was beautiful and bright—perfect for long conversations in the sitting area. We were tickled to see the history behind the dining room table that formerly belonged to the Secretary of the Interior under President Truman. We slept well, too, as the two king-sized beds were super-comfortable. Thank you Tom for a wonderful stay!”
Views Photos, Read Reviews & Check Availability
Credit: VRBO
3) HISTORIC & MODERN LOG CABIN at The Stables at Strawberry Creek
“The Best Unique Knoxville Vacation Rental”
Location: Wooddale
Price: $249 avg. per night
Sleeps: 8 (3 BR/1.5 BA)
Whether you’re wanting a wedding venue, or a secluded and special getaway for family or friends, I recommend this countrified contemporary cabin as my pick for best overall unique stay in Knoxville. The interior is fashionably furnished, marrying modern comforts and amenities with an ultimately remarkable rustic decor throughout. The home features flat screen TVs, a fire pit, and even a copper tub for soaking and deep relaxation! The surrounding property provides phenomenal hiking trails, stables for the equine enthusiasts in the group, and if you’re lucky, rex foxes, geese, and other wildlife. Enjoy nature and be near to Knoxville all at the same time!
Guest review: “We enjoyed our stay at the cabin. It was so wonderful to have a much needed vacation. We loved watching the geese and ducks in the pond out back. Our kids loved going to see the horses. It’s such a peaceful place to stay. It feels secluded but you are still close to so much. My kids are already asking when we can go again!”
Views Photos, Read Reviews & Check Availability
Credit: VRBO
4) South Waterfront Light & Open Urban Apartment #201
Location: South Waterfront
AirBNB Plus: No
Superhost: Yes
Price: $100+ USD per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/41351859
You’ve gotta check this condo out! This five-star rated one bedroom loft apartment is open, bright and modern, with interiors that have been completely remodeled this year. The loft is located in the hip South Waterfront neighborhood, opposite downtown Knoxville on the other side of the Tennessee River. This lively locale is brimming with restaurants, breweries and waterfront walks, and is just a short stroll across the river into the streets of downtown.
Guest review: “If you are traveling to Knoxville this is the perfect place to stay! Close to downtown and also close to all of the outdoor opportunities that make the Urban Wilderness so amazing! This place will amaze you with it’s cleanliness and amenities and the hosts are some of the most hospitable people we have ever met.” – Gary
Views Photos, Read Reviews & Check Availability
5) Elegant 7,000 sqft. Lodge, VIEWS & Pool Access
Location: Sevierville
AirBNB Plus: No
Superhost: Yes
Price: $500+ USD per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/23204386
One of the best things about visiting Knoxville is the serious value for money you will get, and staying in a luxury Knoxville Airbnb is totally possible on any budget. Just 30 minutes from downtown Knoxville, this luxury lodge in the mountain locale of Sevierville is rustic, charming and elegant. The seven bedroom home spans 7000 square foot and features country lodge luxury interiors, a pool, a seven person hot tub, indoor games, a theatre room, multiple outdoor decks with amazing views and so much more.
Guest review: “It is a little drive up the mountain but oh-so worth it! Plus it snowed a little the night be arrived.. the view could NOT be beat…hands down! You will absolutely LOVE this cabin!!!” – Marty
Views Photos, Read Reviews & Check Availability
6) Couple’s Retreat * Spa Shower * Private & Clean
“The Best Cheap Knoxville Airbnb”
Location: Holston Hills
AirBNB Plus: No
Superhost: Yes
Price: $50+ USD per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/32720691
You can still have an epic stay in Knoxville on a budget, and this pretty one-bedroom apartment is my pick for the best cheap Knoxville Airbnb. The cozy abode is equipped with modern appliances, comfy beddings, heating and AC. This neat and friendly apartment is located in Holston Hills, a residential neighborhood of West Knoxville. From here it’s just 15 minutes to downtown Knoxville, 45 minutes from Pigeon Forge and Dollywood and less than an hour from Gatlinburg.
Guest review: “I frequently stay in Air BNBs when I travel for work. EVERY Air BNB owner should visit Tim & Candy’s place and model their units after them. It is TOP NOTCH! IMMACULATELY clean- I couldn’t believe how clean it was. They thought of everything!! Its so spacious and so peaceful! Tons of closet space, washer/dryer, snacks waiting for you by the door when you arrive, Brita water filter container full in the fridge, shampoo/conditioner/soap dispenser in the awesome shower. You have a full kitchen, dining area, living room to relax in, large bedroom… I could go on and on. In the last few years I’ve been staying in Air BNBs this is, hands down, the best. I will be comparing all stays to this experience and it will be hard, if not impossible, to top. I am looking forward to having a go-to place to stay the next time I return to Knoxville and will be telling everyone I know about this place. Thank you Tim & Candy for all the thought and care you put into your Air BNB! It is amazing!!!” – April
Views Photos, Read Reviews & Check Availability
7) Williamswood Castle; near downtown!
Location: Island Home Park
AirBNB Plus: No
Superhost: Yes
Price: $400+ USD per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/5151609
Every wanted to stay in a British-inspired castle deep in the south of the USA? This incredible castle is located just 10 minutes from downtown Knoxville, but it feels like a world away! The three bedroom stay is well and truly fit for royalty, set on its own 300 acre estate and boasting incredible towers, secret passages, armor and so much more. The hosts used medieval Scotland as the inspiration for this unique Knoxville Airbnb, and the stunning stay is sure to provide a magical stay for you and your family or group getaway.
Guest review: “We had such a great time here. Took 5 kids, roamed the grounds when it didn’t rain, played ping pong and chess when it did. It’s has such a unique atmosphere and you feel like you are in Scotland! Especially with the rain! We will definitely be back!” – Larson
Views Photos, Read Reviews & Check Availability
8) Home away from Home
“The Best Knoxville Family Airbnb”
Location: West Emory
AirBNB Plus: No
Superhost: Yes
Price: $120+ USD per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/31582942
Knoxville is a family-friendly Tennessee city, and if you’re heading down here with your fam, this clean, modern and bright four bedroom home is perfect for you. Located in a family-friendly neighborhood 20 minutes from downtown Knoxville, this home is equipped with modern appliances and conveniences, a fully stocked kitchen, luxury bedding and heating and cooling. There’s also a great backyard for the kids. This neighborhood is home to quiet and safe, with many restaurants and parks within walking distance.
Guest review: “Blake’s place is in a very nice/ quiet neighborhood. My family had plenty of room and felt at home here. The backyard has plenty of room for kids to play and the rooms are a great size. Overall we would absolutely recommend Blake’s place and would definitely stay here again in the future!” – Devon
Views Photos, Read Reviews & Check Availability
9) Discover Knoxville From a Charming Old City Gem
Location: Old City
AirBNB Plus: Yes
Superhost: Yes
Price: $150+ USD per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/21098566
One of Knoxville’s few Airbnb Plus offerings, this two bedroom, centrally-located apartment comes with over 100 rave reviews behind it from very happy guests. The industrial-inspired abode features hardwood floors, on-trend decor and furnishings and open, bright interiors. Old City, just minutes from downtown Knoxville, is one of the hippest zip codes in the city and home to hip wine bars, boutique shopping, highly-rated restaurants and so much more.
Guest review: “The loft is very well presented with everything you need. Super clean and the beds are comfy. Location is great and walking distance to restaurants, bars etc. Reagan is a great communicator and everything is exactly as described. We had a great time and would definitely stay there again.” – Ros
Views Photos, Read Reviews & Check Availability
10) Real Yoga Estate’s Teeny Tiny Getaway
Location: West Haven
AirBNB Plus: No
Superhost: Yes
Price: $70+ USD per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/32762216
This incredible tiny house is a little haven in the heart of Knoxville. The one bedroom space is perfect for a couple who are looking for a unique stay in the Tennessee city, and comes with a super affordable price tag as well. It has a kitchen, hot water, heating and AC and a patio. You’ll also have access to the gym/yoga room in the main home as well as the spacious backyard. This farmhouse stay is located less than five miles from downtown Knoxville in a quiet, rural locale.
Guest review: “What an adorable little oasis in Knoxville! I really enjoyed my stay in this tiny house, with finishing touches that shows the care that goes into it. Not only is it very cute & sweet, it is extremely practical and I had a wonderful nights sleep after a long trip. Their friendly dog is a very nice bonus too! If I ever find myself back in Knoxville I’ll definitely be back in this Airbnb!” – Julian
Views Photos, Read Reviews & Check Availability
11) Unique Loft Apt. With Rooftop Deck #401
Location: Downtown Knoxville
AirBNB Plus: No
Superhost: Yes
Price: $400+ USD per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/6410268
This luxury two bedroom downtown Knoxville loft is something else, and there’s a reason that it has the high overall rating it does. The modern loft apartment is nestled within a historic building, and is spacious, stylish and oh so cool. The apartment features high-end furnishings, a designer kitchen and generous bedrooms. There’s even a rooftop terrace offering incredible views across downtown Knoxville. At your fingertips you’ll have the best restaurants, bars, shops and experiences.
Guest review: “We loved our stay at the loft! It is a beautiful space in a perfect Knoxville location. Our only regret is that we wished we would have stayed two nights instead of just one! Pictures and descriptions in the listing are 100% accurate and checking-in and out was a breeze. We would definitely stay again!” – Katy
Views Photos, Read Reviews & Check Availability
12) Couple’s Getaway, Ten Minutes to Downtown. Relax and Unwind!
Location: East Knoxville
AirBNB Plus: Yes
Superhost: Yes
Price: $80+ USD per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/28470425
Just 10 minutes from downtown Knoxville, this five-star guest suite is sure to impress. One of the city’s few Airbnb Plus offerings and one of the most in-demand stays, the one bedroom suite is bright, modern and super stylish. It has a full kitchen, luxury linens and a backyard, and is located within a chilled-out neighborhood right near the city. Not only is downtown Knoxville just a few minutes away, but Dollywood is a great day trip and just 40 minutes away.
Guest review: “This is the second time we have stayed with Katie and Kyle and will be back as we visit our student at UTK. Their place is wonderful!!! — perfectly clean, thoughtful and homey touches in each room, great and helpful communication, and everything exactly as pictures on Airbnb. Thank you especially for the coffee, water bottles, and snacks.” – Leslie
Views Photos, Read Reviews & Check Availability
13) Historic Craftsman Retreat 5 Min to Downtown & UT
Location: Parkridge
AirBNB Plus: No
Superhost: Yes
Price: $70+ USD per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/27814064
With one of the highest average ratings over almost 400 Airbnb guests and counting, this one bedroom guest suite is located just five minutes from downtown Knoxville and guaranteed to impress! The budget-friendly urban oasis is pretty, well-equipped and charming with private entry, spacious living room and tons of friendly additions from the hosts to ensure you have a five-star stay. This historic, central neighborhood is a joy to stroll around, and Knoxville Zoo is just a few minutes drive away.
Guest review: “Would absolutely stay again! Emily goes above and beyond for this place with amazing amenities and a great location. We even loved the dinner restaurant she suggested!” – Hayley
Views Photos, Read Reviews & Check Availability
14) Spacious Loft in Heart of the Old City
Location: Old City
AirBNB Plus: No
Superhost: Yes
Price: $125+ USD per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/21118143
This exciting one bedroom Knoxville loft condo is located within the historic Old City neighborhood of downtown Knoxville. It features space for up to four guests, a fully-equipped kitchen, laundry facilities and modern appliances. The pet-friendly haven is located within walking distance to some of the best dining and drinking experiences in Knoxville, and the University of Tennessee and its famous football team is just a few minutes drive away.
Guest review: “I loved every single thing about this loft!! The location is perfect…walking distance to so many things. It was absolutely beautiful as well! The bed was extremely comfortable. We were just thrilled and would stay again in a heart beat! Thank you so much!” – Brenda
Views Photos, Read Reviews & Check Availability
15) Historic District Apt 5min->Downtown
Location: Parkridge
AirBNB Plus: No
Superhost: Yes
Price: $70+ USD per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/10253311
This centrally-located Knoxville Airbnb has the most bookings of any stay in the Tennessee city, with happy guests eager to return! The one bedroom guesthouse is just five minutes from the heart of downtown Knoxville, and is bursting with features. The private loft apartment is light and breezy, with space to sleep up to six. This historic Knoxville neighborhood is full of eye-catching craftsman homes, and is a quiet oasis just minutes from the busy streets of downtown. This is the perfect budget-friendly Airbnb in Knoxville.
Guest review: “Andrew and Lynne’s place was the perfect base for a few days’ exploring in Knoxville. Everything was seamless, and they were the consummate hosts—they kindly contacted me to let me know the space was ready earlier than the advised time, and check-in was super easy. The apartment is perfectly appointed, especially the kitchen, with coffee/tea, cereal, snacks, and utensils. The location is quiet and residential—an easy 30- or 40-minute walk to the downtown area via parks and some industrial scenery, or 5 minutes’ drive. I appreciated the suggested eateries, bars and hiking spots. Thanks for your hospitality, Lynne and Andrew—If I’m ever in the area again, I hope to be able to come back.” – Jennifer r
Views Photos, Read Reviews & Check Availability
16) Gallery 25 and Special Event Venue
Location: Downtown Knoxville
AirBNB Plus: No
Superhost: Yes
Price: $200+ USD per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/39410271
Need space to hold a standout event in Knoxville? Or just keen to stay in a stunning space in the heart of downtown? This decadent four bedroom condo is glamorous, luxurious and stylish, with incredible decor and furnishings that include glittering stairs, a pool table, leather sofas, a bar and 2.5 bathrooms. With space for up to 16 guests, this epic city loft is located right on buzzing Market Street, just steps from premier dining and drinking venues of this exciting city.
Guest review: “Outstanding space and an excellent location! Large bedrooms, great decor, plenty of bathrooms! We loved our stay here! Would definitely recommend to others!!” – Penny
Views Photos, Read Reviews & Check Availability
Top Airbnb Experiences in Knoxville
Knoxville is a gateway to some of Tennessee’s most visitor-friendly locations, including Gatlinburg, Dollywood and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Make the most of your visit to this southern city, and book your place on one of these bestselling tours and experiences near Knoxville.
Canoe the river to local craft breweries
“Recipe for a perfect day: Floating down an ancient river, cooling your toes in the water, laughing with good friends… all within reach of award-winning breweries serving up fresh craft beverages and tasty treats.”
https://www.airbnb.com/experiences/284592
Price: From $70 per person (4 hours)
Review: “If you enjoy the outdoors, being on the water, and hanging with really cool people while drinking some great brews then this experience is an absolute must. With all of the wonderful things Ashville had to offer my wife and I on our honeymoon, this experience blew it all out of the water (pun intended)!!!” – Chris
Views Photos, Read Reviews & Check Availability
Top Rated Moonshine/Whiskey Walking Tour
“For our Gatlinburg tour we will meet you at the beginning of Gatlinburg under a covered pavilion. After we give an informative overview and history of “Appalachia” and moonshining we will begin our tour. I will be showing you real life working stills. You will have the opportunity to go behind the scenes and see exactly how their process works. After that we will jump right into our first round of tastings!. As a guest of my tour not only is your tastings included, you will enjoy a nice discount on all purchases.”
https://www.airbnb.com/experiences/407552
Price: From $50 per person (3.5 hours)
Review: “This tour is amazing! You will never get to experience moonshine on your own like you would on this tour! Mike and Jen were great making sure everyone felt included and keeping everyone together! They went the extra mile to make sure everyone felt “pandemic safe” by providing hand wipes and sanitizer if you wanted that sort of thing too. They thought of everything! They have a great relationship with the distilleries (you can tell!) so you never know what little something extra you might get to experience! I highly recommend this tour!” – Jessica
Views Photos, Read Reviews & Check Availability
Explore the Smokies-Sights n’ Photo Tour
“Join the husband and wife team of the #1 ranked Airbnb experience in the Smokies. You will quickly find out why their tours sell out constantly. People come from miles around to see the “Awe of the Smokies”. Come explore them with Mike and Jenn! Mike and Jenn take these local Experiences to a whole new informative and fun level!”
https://www.airbnb.com/experiences/521357
Price: From $60 per person (4 hours
Review: “Michael’s tour was amazing! Him and his wife were super friendly and fun! We visited some of the most picturesque spots in the Smokies. He was very knowledgeable and made us all feel very comfortable on the tour. Would definitely recommend this tour!!” – Neelesh
Views Photos, Read Reviews & Check Availability
Did I miss out on any Airbnb Knoxville standouts?
Knoxville is brimming with outstanding Airbnb’s, so I couldn’t include them all on my list unfortunately! However, if you have recently stayed at a five-star Knoxville Airbnb that you think definitely deserves to be added to the list, reach out with its details! I’ll check it out and see if I can add it to the list.
Heading down to Tennessee?
From Nashville to Gatlinburg, Memphis to Knoxville, Tennessee has so many destinations that draw in visitors year-round. Because I think you should definitely be heading down to Tennessee for a southern road trip. I have a range of Tennessee blogs, guides and lists on my website that are full of recommendations on how to spend your time in the state.
- THE 15 COOLEST & BEST AIRBNBS IN NASHVILLE FOR A “MUSIC CITY” GETAWAY
- 120+ NASHVILLE QUOTES & CAPTIONS FOR SOME “MUSIC CITY” INSPIRATION
- THE 16 COOLEST & BEST AIRBNB MEMPHIS VACATION RENTALS FOR A TENNESSEE GETAWAY
- THE 17 BEST AIRBNB CHATTANOOGA VACATION RENTALS & CABINS
- THE 16 BEST AIRBNBS IN GATLINBURG FOR A GREAT SMOKY MOUNTAINS GETAWAY
- THE 25 BEST COUNTRY MUSIC FESTIVALS IN THE U.S.A
Final thoughts on Airbnb Knoxville…
I’ve loved compiling my other Tennessee lists and was always astounded by the quality of the stays on offer, so I knew I’d love Knoxville too – and I wasn’t disappointed! Knoxville is a brilliant base to explore some of the other parts of Tennessee that make the state great. While you’re here, I highly recommend heading out to Gatlinburg for a visit to the epic Great Smoky Mountains and over to Nashville and Memphis to experience the cities that gave us country music. Have a fantastic time!
