Long an eponym for all short-term rentals, Airbnb is one of the most popular vacation rental platforms in the world. In recent years it expanded to include Airbnb Experiences and Airbnb Services, combining access to activities and experts with places to stay—for example, you can book a food tour or art workshop in the city you’re visiting, or schedule a massage therapist, private trainer, or chef to your rental directly through the site. The brand’s dominance has been contentious in some cities; places like New York have banned or restricted home rentals under 30 days to curb overtourism and preserve housing for locals. But you can still book hotels on Airbnb — including in NYC — and there are benefits and potential savings to doing so.
What are Airbnb hotels?
Hotels have been on Airbnb for years, but a site redesign has made them easier to find. Use the “type of place” filter to select hotels, then apply standard filters (self-check-in, free cancellation, accessibility) to narrow results. In New York City you’ll also see a button at the top of the results letting you toggle between homes, hotels, or “any.”
Airbnb’s hotel listings tend to be boutique or independently owned properties rather than big chains. That means you’ll often get services like a front desk, fresh towels, or room service while still enjoying the local, design-forward feel of a hidden gem. Examples in New York include The Hoxton, Williamsburg and The William Vale.
What are the benefits of booking a hotel on Airbnb?
– Airbnb credit: You can earn up to 10% back in Airbnb credit when you book eligible hotels; the credit posts to your account after your stay and can be used for rentals, hotels, services, or experiences on the platform.
– Consolidated info: Hotel listings show the same helpful details as Airbnb rentals — guest reviews, amenities (luggage drop-off, pet policies, elevator), location, proximity to attractions, and ratings.
– Direct booking: Choose from various room types on Airbnb without being redirected to another site. Some properties may offer an “Airbnb guest discount” at booking.
– Local boutique options: Because listings skew toward independent hotels, you can find design-focused, locally minded stays that feel distinct from chain hotels.
Where else are Airbnb hotels available?
While NYC has one of the largest selections (100+ depending on filters), Airbnb also lists hotels in other major cities that often restrict short-term home rentals, such as Singapore, Paris, Barcelona, and Berlin.
In short, Airbnb’s hotel listings let you combine the platform’s review system, filters, and credits with boutique hotel stays — a useful option whether you prefer a local-feeling property or need alternatives where home rentals are limited.
