The 14 best Airbnbs in Cincinnati for the perfect Queen City stay

Step inside the Instagram apartment of your dreams and feel like you’re (temporarily) living a picture-perfect existence. The main attraction of The Swing House is, yes, a fully operational, adult-friendly swing. But there’s plenty else going on here too. Baby blue walls, exposed brickwork, and artfully deshabille cracked paint adorn an environment that’s been curated down to its last inch. There’s a lot of concept going on here, but it’s all practical and workable. Catch some shuteye in the cooly minimalistic queen-sized bed and sip a simple morning coffee on the smooth camel-coloured sofa. This one is for the aesthetes, and if you love it then you’ll really love it.

Beds? One bed; two guests.
The Space: Superhost Mark describes this home as, literally, ‘art’. An interior created with the care of a sculptor chipping into marble.
Location perks: Thriving residential area pretty close to downtown/OTR.
Budget range: More than your average Airbnb, but this ain’t your average Airbnb.
Time Out tip: It has a swing, that’s the tip.

Did someone say ‘cosy’? This little lakeside cabin is cute and then some. Located in Ross, Ohio, it’s just half-an-hour from downtown Cincinnati, while also feeling like a world away. Enjoy the resident animal life of this 50-acre family farm, including wild turkeys and whitetail deer or while away the hours peacefully fishing in the lake. The home itself is a wood-on-wood cabin finished with soft furnishings designed to sink into and forget your worries. Enjoy summer evenings on the veranda or watch the snow fall outside the window with a hot choc in front of the fireplace.

Beds? One bedroom; two beds (sleeps up to three guests, but best for one or two)
The Space: Good things come in small, wood-lined packages.
Location perks: An escape-the-city dream while also being, ahem, just thirty-mins drive from the city.
Budget range: Great price for somewhere so unique.
Time Out tip: We can’t get enough of that super soft hammock swing.

Want a piece of Cincinnati history? This gorgeous loft space is located in a characterful 1890s building with reclaimed fixtures and fittings, plus a whole lot made of the original details. The winding wooden staircase is a particularly attractive aspect, as is the exposed brickwork in the bedroom. This is a great place to book if you’re looking to stay somewhere you’ll want to hangout in a fair amount. In fact, this apartment is so attractive, the urge to kick back with a few craft beers in the living space could prove too tantalising. But luckily, its proximity to all the OTR bars and restaurants will also have you exploring the city in no time.

Beds? 1 bed; two guests.
The Space: Historic hipster dream abode in an ace location.
Location perks: Excellent views of FC Soccer stadium and then some.
Budget range: A nice price for a nice place.
Time Out tip: Very carefully take some artful photos of that amazing staircase.

This white-on-black-on-white flat is firmly located in Over-the-Rhine, or OTR as the locals call it. If you’ve even casually started thinking about staying in Cincinnati then you’ve probably already heard about the legendary charms of the city’s coolest and best-loved neighborhood. Along with gorgeous historic architecture, you’ll discover a brilliant array of restaurants, bars, and artsy venues to frequent while you’re in town. And, if you need any additional pointers, the host of this loft flat has provided a little list of their own local faves. Exposed beams, whitewashed brickwork, and black metal keep things fresh and stylish, while a sizeable bed and lived-in rugs add a nice bit of home comfort. If you feel like a lazy morning, rest assured the kitchen is fully stocked with all the appliances and equipment you need to rustle up a quiet, in-house brunch with your own ingredients.

Beds? 1 bedroom with a king-size bed, sofa, and airbed – max guests four.
The Space: A split-floor loft apartment dipped in monochrome hues.
Location perks: It’s OTR – need we say more?
Budget range: Mid-range price for a very stylish pad.
Time Out tip: Before you rush out and about, enjoy a moment’s calm cuddled up on that comfy sofa.

Another OTR gem, this bright and light loft space has been effortlessly converted into an urban daydream. Blue and white tones throughout keep things feeling relaxed and a tiny bit nautical, while the open-concept kitchen and dedicated workspace make this a very versatile and easy space to feel at home in. Skylight windows provide even more luminosity in this uplifting space. And if you’re staying in town on business, this flat promises excellent wifi that will cope with all your work demands.

Beds? 1 bed; two guests max.
The Space: Uncluttered contemporary living in a converted loft space.
Location perks: Right in the beating, artsy, brewery-loving heart of OTR.
Budget range: Comfortably mid-range for a quality stay.  
Time Out tip: When it’s cocktail o’clock, you’re just a stroll away from that perfect mojito.

Even the newest newbie to Cincinnati will soon get the memo that this city is all about blending the historic with the contemporary – and producing some lovely results. We’re big fans of the way this apartment has been seamlessly updated so that mid-century modern furnishings sit happily alongside many of the original features of the building. Its lavishly decorated bathroom is a particular highlight and then there’s the… drum roll… hidden rooftop garden. A massively fun space primed for sunny afternoon beers and city-exploring debriefs. Enjoy.

Beds? 1 bedroom; two beds (inc. sofa bed); four guests.
The space: A sexily renovated penthouse with acres of space.
Location perks: Sink into the warm embrace of Downtown and have a whole lot of fun.
Budget range: With that rooftop? And the staircase? A steal.
Time Out tip: You’re super close to the city’s highest concentration of arts venues. Why not book a theatre trip while you’re in town?

The Urban Farmhouse is a great example of the kind of personal feel you only get with an Airbnb home, rather than a hotel. Animal print, snuggly blankets, and blue-and-white china all contribute to the overall ‘artsy’ aesthetic of this place which makes the most of its original features – especially those huge double doors – without going anywhere close to ‘farmyard kitsch’. A lot of the rentals in the city (see: umm… a lot of this list) are for couples or single travelers, but this generously proportioned first-floor apartment would be lovely for a small family or a dual couple weekend. At a pinch, the hosts also suggest you could utilize one of the sofas as an extra sleeping space.

Beds? Two bedrooms; four guests max.
The Space: A roomy apartment that would be great for two couples or a family on a city spree.
Location perks: Enjoy the peace and quiet of a residential neighborhood while still being able to walk to the best of the city.
Budget range: Great price for four guests.
Time Out tip: Jump out of bed and head straight out to the nearby waffle house.

The cottagecore vibes are real when you spot this little greenhouse near Findlay Market. Inside, you’ll discover a sweetly made-up space that is part urban chic, part cabin-in-the-woods. We’re especially here for the big wooden terrace that was fairly recently added to the house. Recharge amongst the leaves with a cup of tea first thing and then plan your day exploring OTR, Washington Park, and Findlay Market. You’re particularly spoilt for choice when it comes to local breweries and wineries, so if you know your hops and malts, here’s where to stay.

Beds? 1 bedroom; three guests max.
The Space: This adorable greenhouse that truly feels like a ‘home’ is all yours to enjoy.
Location perks: The ideal spot for those who love their breweries and their wineries.
Budget range: Nice value, especially for three guests.
Time Out tip: chill out on the private terrace before heading out for dinner.

One of the many beautiful things about Cincinnati is the amount of historic buildings you’ll find adorning its streets. Residents are, rightly, proud of these architectural treasures and, even better, they’ve done an excellent job of keeping many of them functioning and alive. This is true of a carriage house, originally built in 1880. Tastefully transformed into a multi-level living space, it now has a comforting homely feel. Stay here and you’ll be ideally placed to live it up in the evenings without anticipating a long journey home at the end of the night, but you’ll also get some much-needed R&R in between jaunts out thanks to the laidback, restorative atmosphere of this place.

Beds? 1 bedroom; two beds; four guests.
The Space: A renovated carriage house of an 1880s home that’ll make an excellent base for your busy itinerary.
Location perks: Prospect Hill gives great access to all the bars and nightlife of OTR.
Budget range: Fab price when split between four guests.
Time Out tip: Kick back and catch up in those twin rocking chairs.

It’s kind of like everything the hosts touched in this downtown apartment turned to silver. Dove grey paintwork, soft stone-colored fabrics, and storm cloud velvet sofas all find their place in this matchy-matchy home where everything has its place. Extra points for all that translucently painted brick and the emerald accessories. The apartment does come with the option of extras, like a concierge service or pre-selected wines, but even if you don’t opt for these, the whole place has a nice feeling of luxury threaded throughout it. Hosts are open to bookings from those in town on business as well as holidaymakers.

Beds? 1 bedroom; two beds; sleeps four.
The Space: A sleeker-than-sleek apartment that will have you feeling calm and centered almost immediately.
Location perks: The Design District of downtown Cincinnati is great for exploring on foot.
Budget range: Nice price for a beautifully cared-for home.
Time Out tip: Get to grips with such a great location by reading the host’s guidebook to the area.

The hosts haven’t shied away from giving this flat a sharp and striking look – the liberal use of black and white might remind guests of Coco Chanel’s style rules. But guests will still feel like they’re staying in an actual ‘home’ when they book here. That floating birdcage chair in the living room is one of the many highlights, along with the geometric tiling in the bathroom and a velvet sofa. Another nice addition is a decent-sized writing desk, which is ideal if you’re in town for work-related reasons or if you just want somewhere to put your laptop. The kitchen’s a generous size too and you can wash and dry your clothes without leaving home – a real bonus for a longer trip.

Beds? 1 bedroom; 2 beds; 4 guests max.
The Space: A lovingly curated apartment with a genuinely personal feel.
Location perks: Bang in the middle of downtown with all the city’s highlights at your beck and call.
Budget range: A bargain for how nice it is.
Time Out tip: Float away in the floating chair.

You’d never quite suspect this quirky blue house contains this thoroughly modern condo, which is what gives it a nice Pandora’s box quality. Split over two floors, the apartment is decorated in blue and white, plus exposed brick walls and wooden floors. It’s a nice mix of old and new, with an eclectic mix of patterns and soft furnishings. Little extras include a table that’s genuinely big enough to eat dinner with friends at, plus a nice desk area. And if you’re in the mood, you can catch some rays on the private balcony area at the back of the property.

Beds? 1 bedroom; two beds; four guests max.
The Space: A city slick condo in a top-notch location.
Location perks: Right in the middle of OTR.
Budget range: At the time of writing, a discounted steal.
Time Out tip: Don’t forget to browse the neighborhood’s art galleries when you have the chance.

This lovely loft apartment is a great example of a renovated flat that truly embraces its history and uniqueness. The whole place emits a ‘just got in from a blustery autumnal walk’ vibe and makes you want to throw on your best knitwear while snuggling down on the plush sofa. But don’t get too comfy as you’re actually in prime OTR territory. Get to know the area’s cocktail bars and indie shops all within very easy walking distance. With its red velvet curtains and varnished wood, we reckon this would make the perfect backdrop for a Christmas weekend away.

Beds? 1 bedroom; two beds; four guests max.

The space: A boutique-feel apartment which makes the most of its historic character.
Location perks: Shops, cocktails, breweries, and all that OTR fun.
Budget range: A tiny bit pricier than others, but also a tiny bit nicer so…
Time Out tip: Pack a Henry James novel and go back in time while seated on the burgundy sofa.

The name ‘Sunshine in Cinci’ kind of says it all. This downtown studio apartment has been kitted out with the kind of nice, pretty touches that immediately bring a smile to your face – kind of like how waking up to a sunny weather forecast does. We’re particularly fond of those vintage-looking chairs in the living/dining area and the snuggly-looking bed. But there’s also the outside seating area which provides striking views of the Cincinnati skyline and roads. Its downtown location makes this a suitable option to stay at, whether you’re planning on heading to a stadium, browsing some boutiques, or just hopping from brewery to brewery.  

Beds? One bed studio sleeps two.
The Space: A studio apartment downtown that’ll please vintage fashion fans.
Location perks: A great downtown location for foodies, sports fans, and shopaholics.
Budget range: Affordable without being budgeted.
Time Out tip: Have a late-night drink with city views out on the balcony area.