Places to stay near Harvard University

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Top-rated vacation rentals near Harvard University

Guests agree: these stays are highly rated for location, cleanliness, and more.

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Top guest favorite
A living room corner features a modern television on a wooden stand near a traditional fireplace, which includes a sleek black mantel. Art adorns the wall above the fireplace, while natural wood flooring creates a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Home in Somerville
4.97 out of 5 average rating, 324 reviews

Best House Cambridge/Somerville

spacious 1900's mansard Victorian. Bright cheerie & centrally located if you're looking for a pad in Cambridge/Somerville. A 10-12minute walk to Harvard Square & close to the Red Line. Great kitchen, living room & /cablewifi. Three bedrooms--one with a European Queen Bed, one double bed & one single. There is one full bathroom w/a large glass shower & a claw foot tub. There is a half bath on the first floor. There is a front porch to sit & sip wine on & a back deck where you can grill & eat out on. I've been living here 12 years--Its tastefully appointed, eclectic finds & a mid century modern touch--absolutely the best equipted kitchen. I've been a chef in Boston & Cambridge for quite some time!

Guest favorite
A spacious living area is highlighted by a bright blue sectional sofa and a circular coffee table. Natural light streams through the window, illuminating the light brown hardwood floor and soft area rug. A decorative plant sits on the coffee table, adding a touch of greenery.
Condo in Cambridge
4.92 out of 5 average rating, 107 reviews

#4B, Walk to Harvard, MIT, Redline! Prime Location

Amazing large, spotless top floor furnished flat in our boutique building on historic Bigelow Street. Amazing location! spotless one bedroom. Walk to Harvard, HKS, MIT, HBS, Lesley, Whole Foods, contactless restaurants. Bus and Blue bike station at bottom of street. Subway Redline Central 2 blocks. All utilities included. Shared common Laundry room in the basement. Pets OK (with approval only). We own/love & live here too! HKS, HGS, MIT Fellows and visiting nurses all welcome! 30 day min.

Top guest favorite
A bright living space features large windows allowing natural light to fill the room. Two distinct seating areas are present: a cozy armchair with a patterned throw, and a sofa with decorative pillows. A wooden coffee table sits centrally, complemented by a small dining area in the background.
Apartment in Cambridge
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 163 reviews

Cambridge Retreat - Sunny 2BR - Close to Harvard

Beautiful two bedroom apartment on the first floor of a classic two-family home in West Cambridge. A corner lot in a quiet neighborhood, with a grassy yard on three sides and small city garden across the street. A block from Danehy Park, a five minute walk to Huron Village and Fresh Pond Reservation, a twenty minute walk to Porter Square, and a quick bus ride to Harvard Square. A perfect home base for college tours and working vacations. The owners, long time Airbnb travelers, live upstairs.

Guest favorite
A cozy bedroom features a spacious bed with decorative pillows and a textured blanket. A bedside lamp sits on a dark nightstand, while framed artwork adorns the walls. A shelf holds various DVDs and decorative items, with light filtering through a curtained window.
Condo in Cambridge
4.82 out of 5 average rating, 273 reviews

Stay Across from Harvard's Campus!

You can see the back of Widener Library in Harvard's Old Yard from the front door. Minutes away from the Harvard T-station with lots of shops, restaurants, and cafes, the apartment is a perfectly situated amongst the best of the in the Boston/Cambridge area. PLEASE take the time to read the entire description before proceeding with an inquiry or a booking request. Most of your questions will be answered below and you will need to RESPOND WITH THE CODE WORD in order to book. Thanks ;-)

Top guest favorite
Apartment in Cambridge
4.94 out of 5 average rating, 100 reviews

Elegant 2-Bed Oasis in Cambridge Near Harvard/MIT

Welcome to your Cambridge retreat! This spacious, newly remodeled 2-bedroom home offers 1,250 sq ft of stylish, light-filled space just steps from the Charles River and minutes from Harvard Square. With two and a half baths, it's perfect for families, business travelers, and friends. Enjoy nearby scenic paths, easy access to cafes, shops, and transit to Boston. High-speed Wi-Fi, smart TVs, and a fully equipped kitchen ensure comfort. Book now to experience the best of Cambridge and Boston!

Top guest favorite
An airy living area showcases a pullout couch adorned in vibrant orange, adjacent to a wooden dining table with multiple chairs. A television is mounted on the wall, and bookshelves filled with various books are visible to the side. Natural light enters through a ceiling skylight.
Apartment in Cambridge
4.93 out of 5 average rating, 334 reviews

Bright Convenient Apt Harvard / MIT

This 600 sf apt with roof deck on the third floor of an old Victorian home is bright and airy. Surrounded trees it does become a sanctuary, a place to call "home". Centrally located and within walking distance to MIT, Novartis, Harvard. It is within minutes walk to the Central Sq subway, station. The apartment is efficiently laid out with a loft feel. It has a bedroom with king size bed, bath, kitchen, and living area with a ligne roset pullout couch/bed, plus a 230 feet deck.

Top guest favorite
A spacious bedroom is illuminated by natural light from large windows, featuring a comfortable bed with soft linens. Two plush armchairs are positioned across from a cozy sofa. A modern glass coffee table holds a magazine, while decorative elements add charm to the setting.
Home in Cambridge
4.94 out of 5 average rating, 320 reviews

Stunning urban hideaway nearby Harvard Square

Charming apartment in a 19th century Victorian house conserves its period architectural details in recently renovated comfort. Light streams into this en-suite guest residence through gracious windows. Beautiful cabinetry and bookcases offer some evening reading. Enjoy the marble bathroom and hardware floors and well-appointed kitchenette. A stone's throw from Porter Square, where bars, cafes, boutiques, and transportation options abound. Minutes to Harvard, MIT and Boston.

Guest favorite
A wooden deck surrounded by vibrant red foliage and lush greenery creates a serene outdoor space. The deck is framed by wooden posts, with chairs visible on one side, inviting relaxation among the seasonal colors.
Apartment in Cambridge
4.89 out of 5 average rating, 382 reviews

Harvard/MIT/BU Riverside Studio w/parking

Discover historic charm in our 1880s studio that opens up to a beautiful backyard and patio. Right in the heart of Harvard University, just steps from student dorms Mather house & Dunster House, and key attractions like the Charles River and eclectic shops. Walking distance to HBS, HLS, MIT, Harvard Sq, Central Sq. Easy access to the rest of Boston via Red Line, car, or bike - this is the perfect place to immerse yourself in the essence of Harvard, Cambridge, and Boston.

Top guest favorite
A modern living area features a black leather sofa paired with decorative pillows. A white area rug lies beneath a coffee table, complemented by an accent chair with a geometric pattern. Natural light filters through the two windows, creating a bright and inviting space.
Condo in Cambridge
4.93 out of 5 average rating, 875 reviews

Spacious 2 bedrooms Apt -Roof deck NO Cleaning fee

A brand new spacious 3rd floor apartment over 1,000 sq ft centrally locate, near 2 subway stations/bus line, 4 grocery stores within 10 mins walk. The apt has a big kitchen, roof top deck and a huge yard. All brand new furnitures from Crate & Barrel, Pottery Barn and West Elm. Bed sheet sets from Crate & Barrel. NO Cleaning fee. We offer a great atmosphere, high quality amenities and cleanliness are utmost importance. Please read the reviews from prior guests.

Superhost
Apartment in Cambridge
4.89 out of 5 average rating, 103 reviews

Harvard Square Home in Heart of Cambridge!

Harvard Square apartment with treetop views. Come visit the heart of Cambridge in this quiet, bright unit with a mix of modern and period pieces. Harvard campus and libraries, restaurants, shops, public transportation all minutes away. 3 Day visitor Parking pass available for surrounding streets. We continuously strive to create an eco-friendly environment by using products that are biodegradable. Relax in this peaceful apartment. Your yoga mat awaits.

Top guest favorite
Guest suite in Cambridge
4.93 out of 5 average rating, 164 reviews

Private Studio in Top Location: Steps to Harvard

Charming studio on the garden level of a classic brick townhouse in Cambridge. Practically on campus: walk to Harvard yard (5 min) or MIT (15 min). Has a back porch for reading or enjoying fresh air. Well appointed with its own private bathroom w/tub, smart TV, and areas for seating, dining/studying, and a kitchenette with mini fridge, oven, microwave, toaster, espresso machine, and everything you might need for an enjoyable stay.

Guest favorite
Condo in Cambridge
4.97 out of 5 average rating, 184 reviews

Phil's Harvard Home - Harvard Set

Right at the heart of Harvard University, we are seconds away from university facilities and key attractions, making it a perfect place to stay if you are interested in exploring Harvard. This room will have a private bathroom. The house is in traditional Victorian style with a lot of history while the interior was renovated in 2016.

Popular amenities for vacation rentals near Harvard University

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Where is Harvard University located?

    Harvard University is located in Cambridge, Massachusetts, near the Charles River and just outside Boston. The campus sits among historic neighborhoods, lively shopping areas, and several museums.

  • When is the best time to visit Harvard University?

    Late spring and early fall are frequently suggested for visiting Harvard University, with comfortable temperatures and leafy campus scenery. Winters can be quite cold and snowy, while summers bring warmer days and more outdoor activities around campus.

  • How old is Harvard University?

    Harvard University was founded in the 1600s, making it over 380 years old. Its longstanding history is visible in the campus’s architecture and traditions.

  • Why was Harvard University built?

    Harvard University was established in the 1600s to train clergy and civic leaders for the early colonial community. Over time, it grew into a broader institution supporting research and education in many fields.

  • What are some things to do near Harvard University?

    You can explore the Harvard Art Museums, browse shops and cafés in Harvard Square, or stroll the university’s historic campus. The area also has live performances, public lectures, and parks for relaxing or people-watching.

  • How is the weather near Harvard University?

    Expect cold winters near 23–37°F (-5–3°C), with snowfall possible, and warm summers around 66–82°F (19–28°C). Spring and fall bring milder temperatures and frequent rainfall, so packing layers and a rain jacket is helpful.

  • How was Harvard University built?

    Early buildings at Harvard University were constructed using regional materials like wood and brick, reflecting colonial architecture. Over the years, the campus evolved with a mix of historic and modern facilities, often designed by noted architects.

  • What is the history of Harvard University?

    Harvard University has roots as one of the oldest institutions of higher learning in the United States, founded in the 1600s. Its campus has witnessed significant academic, scientific, and social developments over the centuries, reflecting broader changes in American society.