Taking an urban vacation is often a nice change of pace from the typical beach or resort backdrop of tourism. An inner-city setting allows for countless activities, and gives you a chance to live like the locals. From your urban vacation home, you’ll find a wide range of restaurants within walking distance, and live theaters, bars, and parks that can all be easily accessed and enjoyed. The question remains, however, which big cities have the best vacation rentals? Here’s a list of the top world’s 10 urban rental areas to help you decide where to visit!
San Francisco is a great place not only to enjoy some valued vacation time, but also to take part in the local culture. Head to the famous Golden Gate Bridge, check out the local entertainment, or sample the freshest catch from the fish market at the pier. You’re sure to have an urban retreat to remember in this lively corner of California.
The center of Germany’s culture since the fall of the Berlin Wall, this former Soviet stronghold offers no shortage of historical landmarks, activities, and tourist attractions. For those who aren’t history buffs, there is plenty of German culture to take in as well. Try a local bakery’s fresh baked breads, cakes, and other unique concoctions and confections for a taste you won’t soon forget.
As Brazil’s country’s second-largest city, you’ll find yourself in the heart of the country’s culture, with a skyline that offers countless picturesque photo opportunities. The city is composed of five separate districts, all of which can be explored on your exciting urban getaway.
Only in the city of stars can you experience the glitz and glam that Hollywood has to offer. Whether you’re stolling down the Walk of Fame, taking a guided tour, or snapping photos of the notable landmarks (and celebrities), L.A. will provide a destination experience like no other urban spot can.
When it comes to urban cityscapes, Sin City has virtually every skyline beat. Casinos, hotels, and all types of businesses spread out as far as your camera lens can see. And with activities from gambling and shopping to hanging out by the pool and relaxing, every visitor is sure to find their pastime of choice in America’s playground.
Who says the nation’s capital is just for politics? Washington, D.C. has plenty of museums, monuments, and educational stops that all add up to create a distinctly unique urban vacation experience. Not to mention, many of these historical monuments and activities are offered free of charge.
Take a tour of the Coliseum and other Roman ruins in this historic ancient city, or visit the Vatican City and the famous Sistine Chapel to see historical landmarks in action. Once you’ve finished touring the sites, take in the flavors of Roma. No matter your cup of tea (or plate of pasta), the Italian Capital provides its guests with an incredible selections of food and wine, not to mention seemingly endless gelato flavors.
Expand your urban horizons by traveling to Barcelona, Spain’s center of art and culture. The locals speak Catalan, a romance language that is a mixture between Spanish and French. Decipher a local map and visit Gaudi’s famous “Sagrada Familia” cathedral and take a stroll by the Nou Camp – the largest soccer stadium in the world.
No urban vacation list would be complete without one of the world’s most beloved cities: Paris. This heavily-populated town is home to some of the most famous markets in the world, ranging from high-end couture to mom-and-pop shops. Take advantage of the city of lights by living like a local and enjoying more off-the-beaten-path parts of town. You may find a hidden gem among the city’s many jewels.
Finally, we reach our number one urban rental destination: NYC. Not only is New York the biggest city in the U.S., but the Big Apple is also home to five separate boroughs … meaning five distinct downtown cultures. Catch an acclaimed Broadway play and walk to Central Park when you visit Manhattan, or explore the city’s subway to head out to Queens or Brooklyn. You can spend a lifetime of vacations in New York without seeing it all. Next time, try renting a vacation home in a new boroughs and exploring your surroundings. You’ll be surprised at how much there is to discover!