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The 13 best Airbnbs in Louisville, Kentucky for a stay in Bourbon City

Cottagecore coziness or ranch-style living – these Airbnbs in Louisville have got southern hospitality covered

Written by
Rosemary Waugh
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Nestled along the scenic Ohio River, Louisville, Kentucky, is more than just the Kentucky Derby's hometown. It's a city bursting with history, culture, and an amazing food scene. Whether you're into horse races, the famous Bourbon Trail, or Louisville's unique arts and music scene, there's something here for everyone.

And guess what? Louisville's Airbnb game is just as strong. From cool downtown pads to cozy family homes, you're sure to find the perfect place to crash. You may be wondering, "Why opt for an Airbnb when there are hotels right around the corner?" Well, choosing an Airbnb offers a unique glimpse into local life, allowing you to soak up everything Louisville has to offer. If you’re looking to live like a local during your trip, this is your ticket.

To help you get started, we've rounded up the best Airbnbs in Louisville. Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or an extended stay, these accommodations are guaranteed to take your trip to this lively Southern city to the next level. So, grab a drink, snuggle up on the sofa, and get ready to find the perfect spot for your upcoming adventure.

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Who makes the cut? While we might not stay in every Airbnb featured, we've based our list on top reviews, hosts and amenities to find you the best stays. This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines.

The best Airbnbs in Louisville

A dog-friendly cottage nestled in a peaceful neighborhood
Courtesy: Airbnb

1. A dog-friendly cottage nestled in a peaceful neighborhood

We’re getting cozy autumnal vibes just thinking about a stay in this snuggly 1930s cottage. For downtime you'll find an abundance of armchairs, sofas, tables, and little nooks and crannies if privacy if what you're looking for. The hosts have embraced and celebrated the vintage past of the property while also bringing in some more modern additions. The outdoor grill, dining area, and firepit are all real highlights (we also like those wicker egg chairs). But if the weather’s against you, there’s also a multipurpose games table (foosball, pool, air hockey, etc) and two sizeable TVs for film-watching. Pets are welcome and little ones are well catered for with a fairytale-like two-bed attic room.

Rooms? Two bedrooms. Sleeps six guests.
The Space: Pack your best knitwear for time well spent in an authentic cottage.
Location perks: Quiet Audubon neighborhood with easy access to downtown, NULU, and the rest.
Budget range: For a large group, this is a winner.
Time Out Tip: Choose the perfect evening for outdoor grilling and fireside bourbon.

A photoworthy home near Frankfort Avenue
Courtesy: Airbnb

2. A photoworthy home near Frankfort Avenue

Just two minutes’ walk away from Frankford Avenue, this house will act as the perfect base for exploring Louisville’s treasures and treats (restaurants, bars, antique shops, and art galleries), while also getting in some R&R. We love how the hosts have allowed themselves to add some bold flourishes to the rooms – in particular some spectacular pink maximalist wallpaper in the bathrooms. Large living spaces and an expansive kitchen act as the heart of the home, giving guests plenty of opportunities to catch up over brunch. Recharge after a day’s exploring with a snooze in one of the sweet-looking bedrooms and you’ll be buzzing with energy in the morning.

Rooms? Three bedrooms. Sleeps six guests.
The Space: Light-filled home with pretty flourishes and thoughtful extras.
Location perks: Get the best of both worlds by being bang in between Highlands and NULU.
Budget range: Leaves plenty in your pocket to spend in town.
Time Out tip: Get Instagramming that bathroom wallpaper, quickly.

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A four-bedroom home in the Highlands neighborhood
Courtesy: Airbnb

3. A four-bedroom home in the Highlands neighborhood

Unlike some cities, Louisville Airbnb’s have some great options for larger groups – and this is one of them. An original Victorian property that’s been carefully restored and updated, it will give a large group all the space they need to play or relax, either as a whole or individually. Inside, you’ll find stately double beds, private reading corners, and desks, inviting armchairs, and a proper family kitchen. Outside, it’s all about the huge patio area and fire pit which have 'stargazing drinks' written all over them. Its superb Highlands location also means you can grab all the sushi, coffee, and craft beer you desire without having to plan an epic journey home afterward.

Roooms? Four bedrooms. Sleeps eight guests.
The Space: A big ol’ Victorian home in a top Louisville location.
Location perks: A Highlands address for all your restaurant row needs.
Budget range: More expensive than some, but it does sleep eight.
Time Out tip: Hone your fire-building skills and just add bourbon for al fresco fun.

An old Kentucky home in the heart of Louisville
Courtesy: Airbnb

4. An old Kentucky home in the heart of Louisville

Here’s how to embrace local quirks without resorting to cliché. Little hints of Kentucky charm reverberate throughout this adorable house with lots of little nods to derby day, bourbon, and a very specific kind of low-key, authentic Americana. But they’ve done so in a way that avoids becoming kitsch or cloying. Stripy eiderdowns, wood-brown cushions, and a nice selection of house plants introduce a masculine aesthetic that’s softened by equestrian artworks and whitewashed furniture. There’s a massive fridge and fully operational kitchen BUT, you’re basically on the doorstep of foodie heaven Village Market, so make sure you’ve got time to sample the best indie delicacies.

Rooms? Three bedrooms. Sleeps six guests. 
The Space: Kentucky charm runs throughout this fantastically-located three-bed home.
Location perks: So much to choose from when you’re sandwiched between Highlands and NULU.
Budget range: Super price for a six-person stay.
Time Out tip: Make the most of being just steps away from the Village Market in Paristown with lots of foodie trips out.

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A pet-friendly home in the Nulu neighborhood
Courtesy: Airbnb

5. A pet-friendly home in the Nulu neighborhood

This quaint home is slightly smaller than other Louisville Airbnb properties that sleep six guests. But what it lacks in size – and let’s be clear here, it’s not too small by any stretch – it more than makes up for in, firstly, its homely charms and, secondly, its brilliant location. An ice cube’s throw from all of NULU’s famous bars, restaurants, and shops, you probably won’t have long to spend at home. But when you do, you can enjoy kicking back in the relaxed living area, sharing nibbles over the elevated breakfast table, and catching some shut-eye in a queen-size bed.

Extra points: this property prides itself on being pet-friendly and will allow up to three cats or dogs (and potentially make exceptions for other animals too if you ask the hosts first). They’ve even got a large kennel and a pet bed for a furry friend to sleep in.

Rooms? Three bedrooms. Sleeps six guests. 
The Space: Sweet urban pad promising plenty of NULU adventures.
Location perks: All the bars, breweries, shops, and sweet spots of NULU and Phoenix Hill.
Budget range: Excellent price!
Time Out tip: Pay a visit to Falls City Brewery, your neighborhood brewery.

A beautifully decorated ranch home in East Louisville
Courtesy: Airbnb

6. A beautifully decorated ranch home in East Louisville

The centerpiece of this expansive, ranch-style family home is, as you’d expect, the dining area. Gaze admiringly on the eight-seater wooden table and wall-sized world map, before filling the seats up with all your favorite people for the kind of huge brunch that will keep you full until 3pm and beyond. The whole place has been tastefully decorated in a never-too-much contemporary style which blends home comforts with millennial minimalism. Perfect for large groups, especially if you’re looking to spend quality time at home along with exploring the wider area.

It's worth noting that this house is genuinely family-friendly in a way most aren’t. Along with a lovely little playroom downstairs, complete with a mini trampoline and assorted toys, the hosts are also happy to provide a crib and booster seat on request. There’s also loads of space outside for small people to run around and play games. 

Rooms? Three bedrooms. Sleeps eight guests. 
The Space: A gorgeously decorated ranch-style home perfect for multi-generational groups.
Location perks: Lovely, family-centric neighborhood in East Louisville, only a one-mile drive from the interstate.
Budget range: A thumbs-up price for so many guests.
Time Out tip: Schedule movie night and make use of the HD projector and surround sound.

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A luxurious blue house with room for four guests
Courtesy: Airbnb

7. A luxurious blue house with room for four guests

There’s lots to love about this bright blue house in Tyler Park. The downstairs open space is a real selling point, feeling shiny, modern, and generously sized. We also like the black-and-white bathroom design and the bold use of black in one of the bedrooms. There’s also a nice private patio area that would make a nice morning coffee spot on a sunny day and space to set up a comfy workstation.  This is a great choice for people who like to combine the best of a city stay (meals out, shopping sprees, and gallery crawls) with time spent in greener spaces.

Rooms? Two bedrooms. Sleeps four guests. 
The Space: A sky-blue home for blue-sky thinking.
Location perks: The best of Louisville’s parks are on your doorstep.
Budget range: You’ll be paying a little bit more for a higher level of quality.

A unique property with a mix of new and vintage amenities
Courtesy: Airbnb

8. A unique property with a mix of new and vintage amenities

If you’re looking for an Airbnb the hosts have really put their stamp on, look no further than this three-bedroom home just outside the main hullabaloo of Louisville (but only an 18-minute drive to all the attractions of town). Vintage knickknacks, cozy throws, and a flair for bright colors make everything feel warm and welcoming. It would make a nice home-from-home for a holidaying family, with a nice twin bedroom/office space that would work well for younger travelers. There’s lots of space outside for a proper evening around the grill and firepit under those pretty hanging lightbulbs. Added perk: when the season’s right, the hosts will provide you with fresh eggs. Brunch, anyone?

Rooms? Three bedrooms. Sleeps six guests. 
The Space: A much-loved, colorful family home made to have fun in.
Location perks: Escape the hustle and bustle with a stay in a friendly residential neighborhood.
Budget range: Bit of a bargain, this one!
Time Out tip: Well there’s a hammock in the garden so…

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A spacious downtown apartment with access to a communal pool
Courtesy: Airbnb

9. A spacious downtown apartment with access to a communal pool

We’d love this brightly decorated flat even if it didn’t come with access to a pool and gym. But it does! This means you can combine sampling the best bourbon with some more wholesome wellness activities. Enjoy a leisurely morning coffee at home on the sofa before heading out and really learning why this is a great location from which to explore Louisville. Bright pops of orange and yellow in all the rooms give an easy, breezy vibe perfect for helping you to wake up feeling uplifted and energised. Stay here and you’ll also have access to a games room and golf simulator. Other Airbnbs in Louisville with a pool will find this place hard to beat. 

Rooms? One bedroom. Sleeps four guests. 
The Space: Let the sunshine into this cheerful downtown flat with a swimming pool and gym perks.
Location perks: Feel the love of everything downtown Louisville has to offer.
Budget range: Real bargain, especially given the location.
Time Out tip: Pack your cossie for a few early morning swims.

A one bedroom suite with room for up to four people
Courtesy: Airbnb

10. A one bedroom suite with room for up to four people

The building’s exterior blends perfectly with the suite’s interiors thanks to the host’s neat predilection for all things black and white. Head downstairs to the self-contained space and you’ll be greeted by a cleverly laid-out living room, dining area, and kitchen. Despite how contemporary the whole place is, you’ll also discover a range of vintage items carefully integrated into the rooms – perfect for giving you inspiration before hitting the antique stores of Louisville. Added bonuses include a huge bathtub, plus an outdoor firepit and grill. Pour a bourbon and relax.

Rooms? One bedroom. Sleeps four guests. 
The Space: A one-bed suite that’s a winner with Frankfort fans.
Location perks: A Saint Matthews address providing great access to Frankfort Ave.
Budget range: Very reasonable for a well-done place.
Time Out tip: Wallow away your worries in that supersized bathtub.

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A luxury two-bedroom apartment in Clifton
Courtesy: Airbnb

11. A luxury two-bedroom apartment in Clifton

Everything about this neatly put-together apartment is contemporary, and yet the choice of furnishings and colorways all suggest the hosts have a little bit of a ‘thing’ for old-school glamour. Sage green velvet faded Persian-style rugs, and pine-colored leather all add a little bit of decadence. We also like how they’ve used slightly darker-than-average shades on the walls, making the apartment a little bit cozier than it otherwise would be. You’ll be right in the middle of Clifton, making NULU, Frankfort Ave, and all the rest of it a really easy stroll away.

Rooms? Two bedrooms. Sleeps six guests. 
The Space: A stylish, new-inspired-by-old apartment in Clifton.
Location perks: Clifton heartland with access to more restaurants and bars than you can shake a stick at.
Budget range: A sound price to pay.
Time Out tip: Shop for vinyl in Guestroom Records.

A highlands cottage in the Irish Hills neighborhood
Courtesy: Airbnb

12. A highlands cottage in the Irish Hills neighborhood

This is cute. Really cute. Floral tapestry cushions, floral wallpaper, floral table decorations, a floral armchair, and the world’s most adorable shower curtain set the tone in this lovingly-put-together cottage. Yes, it’s girly as hell and we’re totally here for that. Favorite part? Probably the pink velvet bed and those wicker flower baskets that look oddly like pineapples hanging on the wall. There’s also a turquoise desk that’ll make any work you need to do while on vacation a little bit easier to swallow. It’s just a short walk to Highlands restaurants, bars, and breweries, and from the end of the street, you’ll get good views of the bridge crossing the Ohio River.

Rooms? Two bedrooms. Sleeps four guests. 
The Space: A rose-tinted vintage-inspired cottage that’s simply delightful.
Location perks: Irish Hills will place you super close to all the best Highlands day- and night-time locales.
Budget range: This will keep you in budget, leaving more cash to splash out on fancy dinners.
Time Out tip: Spend some time just chilling out in that super cute living room.

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An old Kentucky home in downtown Louisville
Courtesy: Airbnb

13. An old Kentucky home in downtown Louisville

Pop culture and Kentucky reference points heavily inform the décor in this six-person flat. Floor-to-ceiling glass doors out to a balcony double as a great light source for the living and dining area which is warmed by gold, terracotta, and rich green tones. This would be a fun flat to stay in with a group of good friends, not least because of the location. Don’t be put off by being ‘on the other side of the river’, it’s super quick to get to downtown and NULU, plus you’ve got Clarksville to explore as well. There’s a decent-sized kitchen if you do want to dine in and plenty of WFH space.

Rooms? Two bedrooms. Sleeps six guests. 
The Space: A fresh and fun riverside flat.
Location perks: You’ll be just across the Ohio River from downtown Louisville giving you great views of this iconic waterway.
Budget range: Leaving you with lots of beer-spending money to spare.
Time Out tip: Pour a cocktail and catch up with a friend while sitting on the balcony.

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