Vacation rentals in Palo Alto

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Top-rated vacation rentals in Palo Alto

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

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Top guest favorite
A charming cottage entrance is framed by natural wood shingles and surrounded by lush greenery. A small porch is adorned with a wicker chair and colorful cushion, inviting guests to enjoy the serene outdoor space. Sunlight filters through the trees, illuminating the pathway.
Guesthouse in Redwood City
4.93 out of 5 average rating, 343 reviews

Soak up the Serenity on the Patio of a Charming Cottage

Light the fire pit and dress for dinner in the vine-covered garden at a peaceful retreat with a soothing waterfall. Zen beachy decor and coastal paintings set the scene indoors, with abundant natural light enhancing easy open-plan living. Pets are welcome with a small cleaning fee of a $50 (one time fee) and additional pets $25 (one time fee). The main room is 12'x17'. Closet is 6 1/2' long. Bathroom 4'x5 1/2' + shower 3'3" x 3'3". kitchen 4 1/2' x 8". Simple breakfast served. Your own private entrance, plenty of parking on the street, nice neighborhood. We are available if you have any questions or need information on the area. 2 night minimum please. The cottage is tucked away off the street in a quiet, safe neighborhood where residents walk their dogs in pleasant weather. Nearby downtown Redwood City is home to shops and groceries and freeways and public transportation are within easy reach. There is a bus that runs at the corner of our block, it would take you to downtown Redwood City or travel down the El Camino Real. There is a train depot downtown as well. Pets - 2 small dogs in the main house, 2 outdoor cats.

Top guest favorite
A bright yellow bench is positioned beside an entrance, providing a welcoming outdoor seating area. Potted plants frame the bench, with one featuring leafy green foliage and the other in a blue container. Light reflects off the white siding of the house, enhancing the inviting ambiance.
Guest suite in Palo Alto
4.9 out of 5 average rating, 172 reviews

Lux Studio near Stanford | GOOG | Meta | Tesla

Part of a beautiful newly custom built craftsman architectural style house with a private entrance. The suite is completely separated, with a secure smart-lock, nicely appointed with modern chic furnishings throughout in a sought-after neighborhood in Midtown Palo Alto - one of the best places to live in Silicon Valley. 3-5 minutes WALK to grocery store, pharmacy, coffee/tea shop, and restaurants. Within 1 or 2 miles, you can ride your BIKE or CAR to Stanford, Tesla, GOOG, Meta/FB and Amazon.

Guest favorite
An outdoor pool area features a long, picturesque pool bordered by vibrant greenery. Large green pool floats rest on the water, complemented by a shaded lounge area under a white umbrella. The space showcases brick pathways and stone details of the home’s exterior.
Home in Los Altos
4.94 out of 5 average rating, 400 reviews

Silicon Valley Work Retreat | Wellness Oasis

Upscale Los Altos Hills. Peaceful and spacious 1,500 sq. ft. retreat. Ideal for business travelers, couples, nature lovers. Adjacent to 3,988-acre Rancho San Antonio Preserve with direct trail access, wildlife, serenity. Inside: workspace with fiber-optic Wi-Fi, fireplace, sauna, pool table, fully equipped kitchen and plush queen bed with guest praised mattress. Outside: exclusive access to saline heated pool and hot tub, patio with BBQ. Minutes from Stanford, Palo Alto, and top tech campuses.

Top guest favorite
An open plan living area features a large, sectional sofa adorned with decorative pillows, set against a rich red accent wall. Natural light enters through sliding glass doors that lead to the private entrance. A wooden table and chairs are visible in the adjacent kitchenette.
Guest suite in Community Center
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 156 reviews

⭐Spacious and quiet, near downtown PA and Stanford

In a quiet area of town, our house is a short 15 minute walk to downtown Palo Alto and 1 mile from Stanford University. This spacious, well-appointed and renovated basement unit is bright with 10' high ceilings, large windows and its own entrance and patio. A/C. The bedrooms have king and queen beds, and the living room has a 65” TV, large sectional sofa and a desk area. The kitchenette has a large refrigerator, DW, Nespresso, cooktop and microwave. Great for families and business travelers.

Top guest favorite
The exterior of a cozy cottage is visible, surrounded by a lush garden filled with various plants and flowers. A stone path leads to the entrance, framed by vibrant greenery. Large windows allow glimpses of the inviting interior, enhanced by a seasonal wreath on the door.
Guesthouse in San Carlos
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 776 reviews

Private Garden Cottage

Relax in our cozy cottage nestled in a serene garden setting, the perfect get-away after a day of business meetings or sightseeing. We are close to major Silicon Valley destinations; 30 minutes from San Francisco, San Jose and the beach in Half Moon Bay —with easy access to Highways 101 and 280, as well as public transportation (SamTrans, Caltrain and BART via Caltrain). Our quiet street is an easy 5-minute walk (0.2 mi) from downtown San Carlos with shops and literally dozens of restaurants.

Guest favorite
A spacious studio is displayed, featuring a light-filled sleeping area with a cozy bed, adorned with crisp white linens and decorative pillows. A small dining table with two chairs is positioned nearby, along with a stylish desk and chair. Soft lighting enhances the overall warmth of the space.
Guesthouse in Palo Alto
4.89 out of 5 average rating, 143 reviews

Palo Alto Cottage: Privacy, Comfort & Convenience

Plenty of privacy, comfort, and easy access to all things Palo Alto. Walk or bike to cafes, restaurants, groceries, parks, the library, and more or cozy up in our spacious, light-filled in-law studio w/ private patio. Separate entry and w/ easy street parking in Midtown that's also conveniently close to California Ave, Downtown Palo Alto, Stanford Campus, Medical Foundation, PAMF, The Foothills, Meta HQ, Amazon, Shoreline, & Headquarters for all other major Silicon Valley companies.

Guest favorite
An open kitchen area features modern appliances, including a gas stove and refrigerator. A breakfast bar with seating for four is situated adjacent to a dining table. Natural light enters through multiple windows, while the wood flooring adds warmth to the space.
Apartment in Community Center
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 161 reviews

Light-filled apartment in heart of Palo Alto

This completely private 1-bedroom apartment is furnished exclusively for Airbnb guests. After years of staying in Airbnb rentals ourselves, we set out to furnish this space to have everything we love in a short-term rental: nice sheets, fluffy pillows, plenty of light (but also black-out curtains), an easy-to-use TV, and cooking supplies. Right in the heart of Palo Alto, it is near Stanford University, Stanford hospital, and the bustling restaurants and shops of University Avenue.

Top guest favorite
Tall redwood trees rise from the forest floor, creating a serene canopy. A distant view of the bay is visible through the trees, with a blanket of clouds resting over the landscape. The sky is clear, contrasting with the lush greenery of the forest.
Guesthouse in Woodside
4.96 out of 5 average rating, 313 reviews

SkyHigh Redwoods Retreat with Bay Views

Inhale. Exhale. Relax in this cozy, romantic guesthouse retreat nestled in the redwoods of the Santa Cruz Mountains, overlooking the bay and conveniently located near the famous Alice’s Restaurant on Skyline Blvd in Woodside. The 1 acre gated property has ample parking and privacy. Snuggle in with the wood burning fireplace, prepare meals in the full size kitchen and take in the views of the majestic redwoods right outside the windows with bay views peeking through the trees.

Top guest favorite
A private patio is surrounded by lush black bamboo, providing privacy and tranquility. Two chairs are positioned around a small round table, complemented by decorative cushions. The ground is lined with brick, enhancing the inviting outdoor atmosphere.
Guest suite in Barron Park
4.97 out of 5 average rating, 148 reviews

Studio 875, beautiful design, private & serene

Conveniently nestled in the quiet neighborhood of Barron Park in Palo Alto, in Silicon Valley. Perfect for work trips, visiting family/friends, or proximity to Stanford. 12 min bike to Stanford campus. 5 min drive to California Avenue shops & restaurants. 3 min stroll to Bol Park & the famous Barron Park donkeys. Please note, this unit is unable to host assistance animals due to resident’s dog phobia and a sensitive elderly cat. Thank you for understanding.

Top guest favorite
A modern living area is furnished with a light grey sectional sofa and a single armchair. A marble coffee table is centered on a textured area rug. Large windows allow natural light and provide a view of a private garden, complemented by a dining table in the corner.
Condo in Downtown North
4.92 out of 5 average rating, 259 reviews

Perfect Location, walk to all Palo Alto venues

Very nice, remodeled 700 Sq. ft. Mid-Century Modern condominium in the heart of Palo Alto. One large bedroom, one bathroom, well stocked kitchen with all new appliances, lovely private back patio area...all this and only a 3 block walk to University Ave (fabulous restaurants & shopping), 3 minute walk to CalTrain, 10 minute walk to the Stanford Campus (or take Stanford Shuttle just 2 blocks away)! No need to drive although space for 2 cars, one undercover.

Top guest favorite
A private patio area is featured, furnished with two seating areas and a central table. An umbrella provides shade, while potted plants add greenery to the space. The wooden fence offers privacy, and the stone floor is complemented by a textured outdoor rug.
Guesthouse in The Willows
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 149 reviews

Quaint Cottage Near Downtown Palo Alto

This charming, quiet 2-story cottage includes a bedroom, bathroom, kitchen and spacious common room with a couch, working desk, fast wifi and a large flat-screen TV. Located in a family-friendly neighborhood in Menlo Park, you'll enjoy your own private space with a separate entrance and tranquil, sunny patio area. The cottage is nestled in the rear of our backyard, detached from the main house.

Top guest favorite
A well-equipped kitchen area features wooden cabinetry and modern appliances, including a gas stove, microwave, and refrigerator. A glass dining table with two woven chairs creates a cozy space for meals, while natural light fills the room through a nearby window.
Guest suite in Palo Alto
4.92 out of 5 average rating, 217 reviews

Cozy Cottage Escape in the Heart of Palo Alto

Perfectly located spacious designer home in the heart of Palo Alto. We are 2-5 blocks from major investors, Stanford, Cal Train, Whole Foods, restaurants, and downtown University Ave. Enjoy space to relax/eat/work inside and outdoors in our garden! Rest well on a full size bed with a private bath! Please note, the backyard is shared with other airBnB guests staying in the main house.

Popular amenities for Palo Alto places to stay

When is the best time to visit Palo Alto?

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Avg. priceG$30,331 GYDG$30,122 GYDG$30,331 GYDG$30,331 GYDG$31,377 GYDG$33,469 GYDG$32,005 GYDG$32,423 GYDG$30,959 GYDG$31,377 GYDG$29,704 GYDG$29,285 GYD
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Frequently Asked Questions

  • How is the weather in Palo Alto?

    Palo Alto enjoys a Mediterranean climate, with warm, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Summer temperatures often reach 80°F (27°C), while winter months can dip to 45°F (7°C). Occasional rainfall occurs from November to April. It's advisable to pack layers as evenings can get cool, even in summer.

  • What are some of the best things to do in Palo Alto?

    In Palo Alto, you can explore the Stanford University campus, enjoy nature in the Stanford Dish or Palo Alto Baylands Nature Preserve, or engage in a bit of retail therapy at the Stanford Shopping Center. The city's vibrant Downtown and California Avenue areas are also great to explore, with a variety of shops, restaurants, and art galleries.

  • What is the best time of year to visit Palo Alto?

    The most popular time to visit Palo Alto is from June to October, when the weather is pleasantly warm. The Palo Alto Festival of the Arts in August and Stanford Homecoming Weekend in October are two popular local events that attract many visitors.

  • What are the best places to stay in Palo Alto?

    Downtown Palo Alto is a popular area to stay, with its variety of eateries and close proximity to Stanford University. The California Avenue area is another great option, known for its lively farmer's market and boutique shops. The Stanford area is often recommended for its proximity to the university and shopping center.

  • What are the best places to visit in Palo Alto?

    Palo Alto has several noteworthy places to visit. The Stanford University campus, including the Stanford Art Museum and Hoover Tower, is frequently suggested. Nature lovers may enjoy visiting the Palo Alto Baylands Nature Preserve or the Stanford Dish. For shopping enthusiasts, the Stanford Shopping Center and University Avenue are popular.

  • What are some hiking trails in Palo Alto?

    Several scenic hiking trails can be found in and around Palo Alto. The Stanford Dish trail and Baylands Nature Preserve offer trails with beautiful views and wildlife sightings. For a more challenging hike, the Windy Hill Open Space Preserve, located a short drive away, is often recommended.

  • What are some family activities to do in Palo Alto?

    Palo Alto has several family-friendly activities. The Junior Museum and Zoo is often recommended for kids, as is the Magical Bridge Playground. Families can also explore the Palo Alto Baylands Nature Preserve, enjoy picnics at local parks like the Elizabeth F. Gamble Garden, or rent bikes for a ride around Stanford University.

  • What are some of the best day trip ideas in Palo Alto?

    For a day trip from Palo Alto, San Francisco, about 35 miles (56 km) north, is often recommended for its iconic landmarks and diverse neighborhoods. The coastal town of Half Moon Bay, located 28 miles (45 km) west, is another popular option for its beaches and seafood restaurants. The vineyards of Napa Valley, approximately 80 miles (129 km) away, also make for a great day out.

  • Are there vacation rentals with a dedicated workspace in Palo Alto?

    Yes! Work meets play with ease at over 1,040 vacation rentals in Palo Alto featuring dedicated workspaces. Stay connected and productive in your home away from home.

  • Are there pet-friendly vacation rentals in Palo Alto?

    Four-legged friends are welcome in Palo Alto. Choose from more than 400 vacation rentals for guests traveling with pets.

  • Are there Palo Alto vacation rentals on Airbnb with pools?

    Yes! Dive into the perfect getaway at one of over 330 vacation homes with pools in Palo Alto, available on Airbnb. Make a splash and soak up the sun in style!

  • How much does it cost to stay in apartment rentals in Palo Alto?

    Experience the best of Palo Alto with our apartment rentals, starting at about $10 per day, before taxes and fees. Embrace comfort and style while staying within your budget in your home away from home.

  • Are there family-friendly vacation rentals in Palo Alto?

    Palo Alto has more than 690 family-friendly stays. Amenities on the property may include high chairs, travel cribs, or strollers.

  • Do hotel rentals in Palo Alto have a gym?

    Absolutely! We offer over 20 hotel rentals with a gym in Palo Alto. Enjoy a tailored experience with all the comforts you desire.

  • Do condo rentals in Palo Alto have wifi?

    Absolutely! We offer over 60 condo rentals with wifi in Palo Alto. Enjoy a tailored experience with all the comforts you desire.

  • Do house rentals in Palo Alto have a bbq area?

    Absolutely! We offer over 120 house rentals with a bbq area in Palo Alto. Enjoy a tailored experience with all the comforts you desire.

Quick stats about vacation rentals in Palo Alto

  • Total vacation rentals

    Explore 1,930 vacation rentals in Palo Alto

  • Verified guest reviews

    Over 69,800 verified reviews to help you choose

  • Family-friendly vacation rentals

    690 properties offer extra space & kid-friendly amenities

  • Pet-friendly vacation rentals

    Find 400 rentals that welcome pets

  • Vacation rentals with a pool

    330 properties feature pools

  • Rentals with dedicated workspaces

    1,040 properties have a dedicated workspace

  • Wi-Fi availability

    1,880 of Palo Alto vacation rentals include wi-fi access

  • Popular amenities for guests

    Guests love Gym, BBQ grill, and Laptop-friendly workspace across Palo Alto rentals

  • 4.8 Average rating

    Palo Alto stays are highly rated by guests—averaging 4.8 out of 5!

  • Nearby attractions

    Palo Alto's top spots, include Stanford University, Googleplex, and Computer History Museum

Destinations to explore