Like Aspen and Breckenridge, Vail is one of Colorado’s most well-known ski resort towns.
Videos by TravelAwaits
It’s also one of the priciest places to hit the slopes in the country. Due to its limited space and high demand, lift and hotel prices can skyrocket when the powder falls. Toss in the fact that Vail’s terrain is the stuff of skier and snowboarder dreams, and it’s not hard to see why Vail is consistently expensive in winter.
That being said, it’s really Vail’s resorts that are exorbitantly priced. Assuming you’re okay managing transportation to and from popular ski spots, you don’t need to pay an arm and a leg for room rates.
Even better, private rentals like VRBOs and Airbnbs in Vail are perfect for warm-weather adventures. When the allure of the fresh snow fades, those mountain views and extensive hiking trails still have their luster. Plus, Vail’s downtown drag is walkable, quaint, and dotted with condo and home rentals.
Here’s where to go if you want to save a bit on lodging in Vail, whether during high season or the quieter summer months. Just a heads up: I’m only listing rentals that have a license or rental number clearly listed.
Airbnbs & VRBOs in Vail that won’t break the bank
Spacious West Vail condo
Stay right in the heart of Vail without spending an arm and a leg. Located on the third floor, you’re a bit removed from the noise. In addition to the single bedroom, there’s a cool loft where you can sleep two more. I’m also a big fan of the spiral staircase that wraps around a large trunk.
Bedroom in a shared property with private bathroom
This lovely home has a bedroom for rent on Airbnb. It’s billed as a wellness retreat stay, which fits the bill. The host is even willing to take you to the grocery store upon arrival. The space is airy and light, while the bedroom has everything you could need for a comfortable stay—including an ensuite bathroom. Just know that this is only open to solo travelers.
Entire condo in downtown Vail
This studio sleeps up to four. It’s also located right in Vail’s Lionshead Village, meaning you can be on the slopes in just a few minutes. There’s also a shared outdoor hot tub on the roof, a gas fireplace in-unit, and a private in-unit balcony overlooking Lionshead.
Downtown Vail condo with hot tub
This condo is also located smack in the middle of Lionshead. It’s a one-bedroom that has a pullout couch in the living room, along with a shared hot tub on the roof. Just know that this unit doesn’t have air conditioning. If you’re warm, open the balcony doors—it’ll cool up quickly.
Studio close to the slopes
Speaking of slope access, if you’re all-in for skiing or snowboarding, this West Vail studio is perfect. The Cascade Lift is only three minutes away, while Vail Village is accessible via the free bus that stops across the street from the studio. There’s also ski storage below the deck.
Large condo that sleeps six
It’s hard to find VRBOs in Vail that won’t break the bank for larger groups. This two-bedroom unit that sleeps six breaks the mold. It’s located right in the heart of Vail Village and is decked out in classic mountain chalet-style décor. The real coup is the private balcony with mountain views and a grill.
Charming A-Frame near Vail
This A-Frame-style cabin is a bit more remote than the others—but you’re still within Vail’s limits. You can take the free shuttle to the heart of Vail Village in less than fifteen minutes. I like the remote nature of this historic cabin, which was one of the first ski cabins built in Vail. The back patio overlooks Bighorn Creek, too, which is one of the area’s most popular waterfalls.
Beaver Creek condo with free bus to Vail
Stay just outside Vail at this lovely two-bedroom condo that has chalet vibes. One queen bed has a trundle, so you can sleep up to six. You’ve got mountain views from the balcony, along with a seasonal swimming pool on the grounds. The free shuttle is available to either Vail Village or the pedestrian bridge to Lionshead.
[Just a heads-up: We may earn an affiliate commission when you make a purchase from a link in our articles.]
