Every traveler is on the lookout for epic views, but the value of finding them out the window of your Airbnb skyrockets when you’re traveling with kids.

It means nap time can become happy hour on the balcony. 🥂 And that slow morning coffee can take on new meaning while the rest of the family wakes up (or snores away jet lag).

Because we found particularly impressive success with stunning—and sometimes surprising!—views across Europe, I’ve rounded up my absolute favorites here, with links for you to save and book when the croissants call!

7 Stunning European Vacation Rental Views

My personal checklist for Airbnbs and VRBOs isn’t crazy, but the ONE thing that never fails to sell me immediately on a stay is a stellar view. I booked our entire stay in Montenegro based off of the balcony shots I saw in the listing (it was as dreamy as it looked!), and some, I never even expected.

In no particular order, here are seven that took my breath away, while also feeling well equipped for our family of four, including a toddler and baby.

1. Chamonix, France

The sweeping French Alp views in this backyard were better than I could have imagined. Framed with native flowers and located alongside a grazing field, al fresco dining became the norm during our two-week stay in this three-bedroom chalet. It’s located a five-minute drive or 25-minute walk along the river to town.

2. Venice, Italy

This cozy, ground-floor apartment is tucked into a quiet corner of the city, but still easily accessible to everything—a dream come true. The original listing photos didn’t actually show the bedroom canal views that were mentioned, so we were blown away (the kiddos, in particular), when we found these perfectly perchable windowsills on which they spent hours watching gondolas float by.

3. Seville, Spain

A private penthouse terrace (the highest downtown!) overlooking the Seville Cathedral would be enough, but a cold dipping pool, outdoor kitchen and massive lounge area knocked this place out of the park. We scored a great rate booking it for just one night, last minute, but it turned out to be one of our most memorable stays yet.

4. Kotor, Montenegro

It’s true. I booked this Airbnb because I needed to drink wine on its balcony—and the best part is that it’s the only reason we found our way to Montenegro. With two small bedrooms, this seaside renovated home made up for its tri-level awkwardness with the prettiest views I’ve ever seen. Out the window, you can see the historic Old Town and the rugged wall that stretches to a fortress above, twinkling with lights at night.

5. Lauterbrunnen, Switzerland

From the kitchen window, you could gaze at the steady rush of water falling from one of the valley’s 72 waterfalls. But the views off the back patio, which look out into the valley and the magnificent peaks above, are better yet, and only heightened when a paraglider gently lands within eyeshot. Sleeping five, this comfortable condo is an easy walk to and from town and the train, and worked perfectly to home both our family and a guest.

6. Pienza, Italy

A watchtower-turned-farmhouse-turned-Airbnb, this gorgeous escape is as historic as it is perfectly placed. The patio overlooks an olive grove and Tuscany’s rolling hills, resident cats curl up in the sun near the front door, and the living room boasts a massive, roaring fireplace. Plus, it’s a short hike to Old Town where a playground, shops and cafes are available.

7. Orta San Guilio, Italy

Positioned just above the town square and overlooking the lake and legendary island, this modern, two-bedroom retreat in a pedestrian-only downtown offers the sweetest views, with water taxis just a few, short steps away. An added bonus was that for a reasonable fee, the owners offer up their grassy lakefront lot for private day use, too!

Can you resist a mini highland cow?

LOCATION: Logan, Ohio, United States
GUESTS: Up to 6
BEDROOMS: 3+ Bedrooms
PRICE: $$$ (Rates generally start between $300-$700)

Close to the geological gem, Hocking Hills, guests can cozy up inside this three-bedroom cottage, one of a handful on the Creative Cabins property. Tastefully decorated, a double-bed bunk and children’s books and games make rainy days easier, as do the six rocking chairs you’ll find on the covered porch.

Nearby, guests can also visit the property’s mainstays at “The Barn,” which include two miniature highland cows, a miniature donkey, goats and a great Pyraneese pup, Bo.

See more photos of this cottage and others by the same company on Instagram: @CreativeCommonsLLC

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