The Best Airbnbs in Connecticut (Chosen by a local)
Looking for the best Airbnb in Connecticut? Whether you’re planning a weekend in Mystic, a fall getaway in Litchfield County, or a beach vacation along the Connecticut shoreline, choosing the right Airbnb can make your trip even better.
I’ve lived in Connecticut for more than 25 years, and one thing I’ve learned is that while the state isn’t very large, where you stay makes a big difference. Staying close to the attractions you want to visit means you’ll spend less time in the car and more time enjoying your vacation.
I’ve explored every corner of Connecticut—from the charming waterfront streets of Mystic to the rolling hills of Litchfield County—and these are the Airbnbs I would recommend to family and friends. Whether you’re traveling with kids, planning a romantic weekend, or gathering a group of friends, you’ll find a vacation rental that’s the perfect home base for exploring the Constitution State.
Before you book, here’s a quick guide to choosing the best area of Connecticut for your trip.
Where Should You Stay in Connecticut?

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The best place to stay in Connecticut depends on what kind of vacation you’re planning. While you can drive across the state in just a few hours, staying close to the attractions you want to visit will give you much more time to enjoy your trip.
Stay in Mystic if it’s your first visit
If you’ve never been to Connecticut before, I’d recommend staying in Mystic. Between Mystic Seaport Museum, Mystic Aquarium, Olde Mistick Village, waterfront restaurants, and nearby beaches, there’s enough to keep you busy for an entire weekend. It’s also a great base for exploring Stonington Borough, Watch Hill, and the Rhode Island coastline.
Stay in Litchfield County for a relaxing getaway
If your idea of a perfect vacation includes scenic drives, hiking, covered bridges, charming small towns, and incredible fall foliage, Litchfield County is hard to beat. This part of Connecticut feels much quieter than the shoreline and is one of my favorite places to escape for a peaceful weekend.
Stay near Fairfield County for easy access to New York City
Planning to split your vacation between Connecticut and New York City? Staying in Fairfield County puts you close to Metro-North trains, beautiful shoreline communities, excellent restaurants, and some of Connecticut’s nicest beaches while still making day trips into Manhattan easy.
Stay near Hartford for museums and central Connecticut
Hartford makes a convenient home base if you’re planning to explore central Connecticut. You’ll be close to museums, historic sites, family attractions, and you’ll have easy access to both eastern and western parts of the state for day trips.
Stay along the Connecticut shoreline for beaches and coastal towns
If you’re visiting during the summer, I’d choose an Airbnb along the Connecticut shoreline. You’ll have easy access to beaches, seafood restaurants, charming coastal towns, and beautiful views of Long Island Sound. It’s a wonderful choice for families looking for a classic New England beach vacation.
The perfect New England home
23 minute drive to Hartford
32 minute drive to Springfield, Mass.
Best for: Multi-generational family vacations and classic New England charm.
Quick Take: If you’re picturing a white farmhouse with a front porch, plenty of room for everyone, and space for kids to play, this is exactly the kind of Connecticut getaway I’d recommend.
Why You’ll Love It
- Sleeps up to 10 guests in five bedrooms.
- Private pool, pool table, and foosball table keep everyone entertained.
- Large yard with plenty of room for kids to run around.
- Family-friendly extras including a Pack ‘n Play, high chair, and toys.
- Fully equipped kitchen for easy family meals.
Nearby Attractions
Located within easy driving distance of Hartford and Springfield, this makes a great home base for exploring central Connecticut while still enjoying a peaceful country setting.
Things to Know
The base price includes four guests, so larger groups should check the total cost before booking.
My Take: If you’re traveling with grandparents, cousins, or another family, this would be one of my top choices because there’s enough space for everyone to spread out without feeling crowded.
New York City Getaway
46 minutes from Hartford
1 hour 19 minutes from New York City
Best for: Couples, girls’ weekends, and anyone looking for a peaceful escape that’s still close to New York City.
Quick Take: If you love historic homes, quiet country roads, and charming New England towns, this beautifully restored 1790s home is one of my favorite picks on the list.
Why You’ll Love It
This historic home has been thoughtfully restored, combining original character with modern comforts. The flagstone walkways and beautiful gardens make it feel like a true retreat, while the location in southern Litchfield County gives you easy access to some of Connecticut’s prettiest scenery.
One of the things I love most about this area is how peaceful it feels. You’re surrounded by small towns, great local restaurants, antique shops, and scenic back roads, but you’re still close enough to New York City for an easy day trip if you want one.
If you’re visiting in the summer, there are several nearby lakes for swimming. In the winter, Mohawk Mountain is only about 35 minutes away, making this a great choice for a cozy ski weekend. Fall is especially beautiful, with incredible foliage, apple orchards, and scenic drives throughout the region.
And don’t leave without grabbing ice cream at one of my favorite local spots—it’s only a few miles away!
Things to Know
The home sleeps six guests in three bedrooms, making it a great size for families or a weekend away with friends. If you’re looking for nightlife or lots of attractions within walking distance, this probably isn’t the right fit. But if your goal is slowing down and enjoying one of Connecticut’s most beautiful regions, I think you’ll love it.
My Take: This is the Airbnb I’d choose if I wanted a relaxing New England weekend with great food, beautiful scenery, and plenty of time to unwind.
Plus the best ice cream in Connecticut is just a few miles away.
Modern Charm in the Woods
1 hour from Hartford
Best for: Couples, small families, and anyone looking to explore the beauty of Litchfield County.
Quick Take: Don’t let the rustic exterior fool you. Inside, this home is bright, modern, and beautifully designed, making it a relaxing base for exploring one of Connecticut’s prettiest regions.
Why You’ll Love It
Located in Washington, Connecticut, this Airbnb puts you in the heart of Litchfield County, an area known for its scenic hiking trails, charming small towns, and beautiful countryside. Mount Tom State Park is nearby, and you’ll also be a short drive from New Preston, Bantam, and other towns filled with great restaurants, boutiques, and antique shops.
The home comfortably sleeps eight guests in three bedrooms and features a fully equipped kitchen, making it easy to prepare meals after a day of sightseeing. In the evening, gather around the outdoor fire pit—it’s the perfect place to relax, roast marshmallows, and enjoy a quiet Connecticut night.
Things to Know
This home sits on a main road, so if you’re traveling with very young children who love to run outside, that’s something to keep in mind. Otherwise, it’s a wonderful choice for anyone who wants modern amenities while still feeling surrounded by nature.
My Take: I’d recommend this Airbnb for travelers who want to spend their days hiking, exploring Litchfield County’s small towns, and enjoying some of the best scenery Connecticut has to offer.
This is off a main road, so if you have young kids you might want to pass on this one.
Farmhouse in Connecticut
1 hour 22 minutes to Hartford
38 minutes to Stockbridge,Massachusetts
Best for: Couples, families, and anyone looking for a quiet escape near the Berkshires.
Quick Take: If your idea of a perfect vacation is slowing down, reading on the porch, and spending your days exploring scenic back roads and hiking trails, this charming farmhouse is hard to beat.
Why You’ll Love It
Located in Salisbury, this Airbnb sits in one of the most peaceful corners of Connecticut. You’ll have plenty of privacy while still being just a short drive from the Berkshires, making it easy to explore charming New England towns, scenic hiking trails, local farms, and cultural attractions in both Connecticut and western Massachusetts.
The home sits on three beautiful acres, giving everyone plenty of room to spread out and enjoy the outdoors. Whether you’re sipping your morning coffee outside or relaxing after a day of exploring, it’s the kind of place that encourages you to slow down and enjoy the scenery.
Things to Know
The farmhouse sleeps five guests in three bedrooms, making it a great choice for a family or a small group of friends. If you’re looking for nightlife or lots of nearby attractions, this probably isn’t the best fit. But if you’re hoping for peace, quiet, and beautiful New England scenery, you’ll feel right at home here.
My Take: I’d book this one for a fall foliage trip. Between the quiet setting, nearby hiking, and easy access to the Berkshires, it’s exactly the kind of place I’d want to come back to after a day of exploring.
Historic Home Airbnb in Mystic Connecticut
1 hour from New Haven
50 minutes from Providence, RI
Best for: Families, couples, and anyone who wants to explore Mystic without constantly getting in the car.
Quick Take: One of the best things about this Airbnb is the location. You can easily walk to downtown Mystic’s restaurants, shops, and waterfront, making it a fantastic home base for a Connecticut getaway.
Why You’ll Love It
This beautifully restored historic home combines New England charm with an unbeatable location. Spend the morning wandering through downtown Mystic, browse the local boutiques, enjoy fresh seafood on the waterfront, and then stroll back to your Airbnb whenever you need a break.
It’s also just a short drive from Mystic Seaport Museum, Mystic Aquarium, Olde Mistick Village, and the beautiful beaches along the Connecticut and Rhode Island shoreline. If you’re planning to explore Watch Hill or spend a day at the beach, you’re in a great location for that too.
Things to Know
The home sleeps six guests in two bedrooms, making it a great option for families or two couples traveling together. Because you’re staying right in town, parking the car and exploring on foot is part of the experience.
My Take: If you’re visiting Mystic for the first time, this is one of the Airbnbs I’d recommend first. Being able to walk to restaurants, shops, and the waterfront makes the whole trip feel much more relaxing.
Water Views in an Historic Home
1 hour from New Haven
50 minutes from Providence, RI
Best for: Families, couples, and anyone who wants to stay within walking distance of downtown Mystic.
Quick Take: If waking up to water views sounds like your perfect vacation, this charming home combines a beautiful setting with one of the best locations in Mystic.
Why You’ll Love It
Located in the heart of downtown Mystic, this spacious four-bedroom home makes it easy to enjoy everything the area has to offer. Start your morning with coffee overlooking the water, then spend the day exploring the shops, restaurants, and attractions that make Mystic one of my favorite towns in Connecticut.
The updated kitchen and open living spaces make it a comfortable choice for families or groups traveling together, while the outdoor shower is a classic New England bonus after a day at the beach.
Nearby Attractions
One of the biggest advantages of this Airbnb is its location. You’re just minutes from downtown Mystic, Mystic Seaport Museum, Mystic Aquarium, Olde Mistick Village, and some of the best seafood restaurants in the state. You’re also close enough for easy day trips to Stonington Borough, Watch Hill, and the Rhode Island beaches.
Things to Know
With four bedrooms and room for up to eight guests, this is an excellent choice for larger families or two families traveling together. The walkable location means you can spend less time driving and more time enjoying Mystic.
My Take: If your goal is to experience everything Mystic has to offer, I’d choose this Airbnb over one farther outside of town. The location alone makes it worth considering.
Lake Front Cottage
4o minutes to New Haven
1 hour to Providence, RI
Best for: Families, couples, and anyone looking for a peaceful waterfront getaway.
Quick Take: If relaxing by the water is your idea of the perfect vacation, this beautifully updated lakefront cottage is hard to beat. The views alone are enough to make you want to stay an extra day.
Why You’ll Love It
This completely remodeled home was designed to take advantage of its incredible lake views. The open floor plan makes it easy for everyone to spend time together, while the large deck is the perfect place to enjoy your morning coffee or unwind after a day of exploring.
With three bedrooms, two full bathrooms, and a fully equipped kitchen, there’s plenty of room for families or friends traveling together. Whether you’re grilling outside in the summer or curling up inside with a view of the lake, this is the kind of place that’s just as enjoyable to stay in as it is to use as a home base.
Nearby Attractions
Located within an easy drive of New Haven and the Connecticut shoreline, this Airbnb makes a great base for exploring local hiking trails, beaches, restaurants, and small towns before returning to a quiet lakeside retreat.
Things to Know
The cottage sleeps six guests in three bedrooms and includes high-speed Wi-Fi, laundry facilities, and plenty of outdoor seating. If you’re looking for a peaceful getaway where you can spend as much time enjoying the property as exploring Connecticut, this is an excellent choice.
My Take: I’d book this one if my goal was simply to relax. Some Airbnbs are all about the destination—this one is a destination all by itself.
Roomy House- Close to Beach
1 hour to New Haven
45 minutes to Providence, Rhode Island.
Best for: Large families, multi-family vacations, and beach weekends along the Connecticut shoreline.
Quick Take: If you’re traveling with a big group, this spacious home gives everyone room to spread out while keeping you close to some of the best beaches and coastal towns in Connecticut and Rhode Island.
Why You’ll Love It
With four bedrooms and space for up to 10 guests, this home was made for family vacations. Whether you’re planning a summer beach trip, a long holiday weekend, or a reunion with friends, there’s plenty of room for everyone to relax both inside and out.
One of the biggest advantages is the location. You’re just a short drive from Mystic, Stonington Borough, Westerly, and Watch Hill, making it easy to spend your days exploring charming coastal towns before returning to a comfortable home for the evening.
Traveling with a dog? This Airbnb is pet friendly, so your four-legged family member can come along too.
Nearby Attractions
Use this Airbnb as your home base for exploring Mystic, Stonington Borough, Watch Hill, and the beautiful beaches along the Connecticut and Rhode Island shoreline. It’s an excellent location if you want to combine beach time with shopping, seafood restaurants, and sightseeing.
Things to Know
The home comfortably sleeps up to 10 guests, making it one of the best choices on this list for larger groups. If you’re planning a vacation with grandparents, cousins, or another family, you’ll appreciate having plenty of space without feeling crowded.
My Take: This would be one of my top picks for a summer family vacation. The combination of space, beach access, and nearby coastal towns makes it easy to keep everyone happy, no matter what they enjoy doing.
Light Filled Barn Stay
30 minutes to New Haven
1 hour 30 minutes from NYC
Best for: Couples, small groups, and anyone looking for a unique Connecticut getaway near the coast.
Quick Take: If you’re tired of staying in ordinary vacation rentals, this beautifully renovated barn offers something completely different. The soaring ceilings, open spaces, and unique design make it one of the most memorable Airbnbs on this list.
Why You’ll Love It
This restored barn blends rustic character with modern comfort. The 30-foot ceilings and bright, open living spaces make the home feel much larger than it is, while the eclectic décor gives it plenty of personality.
It’s a wonderful place to gather with family or friends after a day of exploring. Whether you’re cooking dinner together, relaxing with a glass of wine, or simply enjoying the peaceful setting, this Airbnb feels like a destination in itself.
Nearby Attractions
Located just outside Fairfield, you’ll be close to excellent shopping, beaches, and some of my favorite restaurants in Connecticut. Be sure to stop by Mecha Noodle Bar for dinner and finish the evening with dessert from Milkcraft—it’s one of my favorite combinations after a day of sightseeing.
You’ll also be within easy driving distance of New Haven, making it easy to spend a day exploring Yale University, museums, and the city’s fantastic food scene.
Things to Know
The home sleeps eight guests in four bedrooms, making it a great choice for families or small groups traveling together. While it has plenty of character, it also includes all the modern amenities you’ll need for a comfortable stay.
My Take: If I wanted a unique Airbnb that people would still be talking about after the trip, this is the one I’d book. It has much more personality than a typical vacation rental while still being close to everything Fairfield County has to offer.
Waterfront Property Close to NYC
1 hour to NYC
45 minutes to New Haven
Best for: Families, couples, and anyone who wants a waterfront escape with easy access to New York City.
Quick Take: It’s hard to beat this location. You can spend the morning watching the waves over Long Island Sound and still be in New York City by train later that day. You know the old phrase….”location, location, location?” This has the location!
Why You’ll Love It
This stunning waterfront home sits directly on Long Island Sound, offering incredible ocean views from almost every room. Step outside and you’re just a few steps from the beach, making it easy to spend your days swimming, walking along the shoreline, or simply relaxing with a good book.
Inside, the home has plenty of space for families or groups traveling together, while the outdoor living areas make the most of the spectacular setting. If waking up to the sound of the water is on your vacation wish list, this Airbnb delivers.
Nearby Attractions
Located in Stamford’s desirable Shippan neighborhood, you’ll be just minutes from downtown Stamford’s restaurants, shops, and waterfront parks. One of the biggest advantages of staying here is the easy access to the Metro-North train, making a day trip into New York City simple without having to deal with driving or parking.
Things to Know
The home sleeps up to eight guests in three bedrooms and is best suited for travelers who want to combine a relaxing beach vacation with sightseeing. Having both the waterfront and New York City within easy reach makes this one of the most unique rentals on the list.
My Take: If I wanted to enjoy the Connecticut shoreline but still have the option of spending a day in New York City, this is the Airbnb I’d book. The location really is the biggest selling point.
This Ultimate Luxurious direct oceanfront property in Shippan Area is a once-in-a lifetime experience to enjoy.
Breathtaking 180 degree unobstructed beach and blue water views of Long Island Sound will greet you every morning! Plus you can literally walk out the back door and be at the beach!
You’re minutes away from downtown Stamford (with its many restaurants), and very close to Metro North Train to get in and out of New York City easily and quickly.
Which Connecticut Airbnb Should You Choose?
The best Airbnb in Connecticut really depends on the kind of vacation you’re planning.
If you’re visiting Mystic, I’d choose one of the historic homes within walking distance of downtown so you can spend more time exploring and less time driving.
If you’re hoping for a quiet weekend surrounded by nature, you can’t go wrong with one of the beautiful homes in Litchfield County, especially during the fall when the leaves are changing.
Traveling with a large family? The spacious New England farmhouse and beach houses offer plenty of room for everyone to spread out while still being close to some of Connecticut’s best attractions.
One of the things I love most about Connecticut is that you can completely change the feel of your vacation just by staying in a different part of the state. Whether you’re looking for beaches, charming small towns, hiking trails, great restaurants, or historic villages, there’s an Airbnb that puts you right in the middle of it all.
No matter which one you choose, you’ll have the perfect home base for exploring one of New England’s most underrated destinations.
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