Choosing the right theme for your Airbnb can significantly enhance the guest experience and set your rental apart in a competitive market. By aligning your theme with your target audience and location, and effectively showcasing it through descriptive listings, you can attract more bookings and justify a higher price point.

Get Inspired: Popular Themes for Airbnb Rentals

Tailor your Airbnb theme to match your typical guests and reflect the ambiance and/or attractions of your location.

Based on AirDNA’s analysis of property descriptions, popular short-term rental themes include beach, Disney, sports, gaming and Barbie, among others.

Use vivid, narrative descriptions in your listing to bring your theme to life and make your property more appealing to potential guests.

Looking to make your Airbnb listing stand out? Themes are a great way to impress your guests and provide a memorable experience. However, choosing the right theme for your short-term rental can be challenging. 

That's why AirDNA analyzed thousands of guest reviews to find the best Airbnb theme ideas for short-term rentals. This list can provide you with some inspiration and help you choose a theme to fit your location and your typical guest demographic.

Use Dynamic Pricing to optimize your pricing strategy.

How to Choose the Perfect Theme for Your Airbnb

Themed rentals are about more than aesthetics. You’re creating an experience that resonates with your guests and sets your property apart in a competitive market. Choosing a theme for your Airbnb can transform a simple vacation rental into a memorable retreat, leading to increased bookings and glowing reviews. 

Here are some key considerations for choosing your Airbnb theme:  

Different themes appeal to different types of people, so aligning your theme with your target audience is important. 

For instance, if your Airbnb primarily attracts families, consider themes that are fun, safe, and engaging for all ages. Themes like "Adventure Safari" or "Enchanted Forest" can captivate children's imaginations while still appealing to adults. 

If your property is a favorite among couples seeking romantic getaways, themes such as "Rustic Romance" can set the perfect mood for a love-filled vacation. Notice how even the name of your themed vacation rental can impact guests' perceptions and attract a specific audience.

In addition to considering who your guests are, ask yourself why they are coming to your area. Does your rental location have a main attraction? What type of vacation are most travelers seeking in your area? The best airbnb theme ideas align with the tourism in your area.

Your location often serves as a great backdrop for a themed vacation rental. A coastal property located in a summer destination, for instance, is the perfect candidate for a nautical or beach house theme. A "Winter Wonderland" themed rental makes sense for properties in colder climates that see their highest occupancy during ski season.

If your rental is near a national park, a nature-inspired retreat with natural materials and earthy colors can complement the outdoor experience. Urban properties can lean towards modern or culturally inspired themes that reflect the city's vibe.

Consider seasonality, too. Updating short-term rentals with decorations for various holidays, for example, offers an excellent opportunity for you to refresh your decor style from time to time. Changing your interior design on a regular basis keeps your listing interesting and updated for repeat guests.

Don't shy away from bold or unconventional themes, especially if they tell a story or offer an unusual experience.

Unique themes, like "70s Disco" or "Under the Sea" makes your property memorable. Striking themes often motivate guests to share their experiences and, in turn, market your rental.

AirDNA has created a list of the top Airbnb themes using our algorithm-based analysis of guest reviews. From classic favorites to trending themes, this list provides data-driven insights to help you make an informed decision about your own unique Airbnb theme. 

Ideal for properties near the shore, beach or coastal themes utilize visual elements like sandy tones, seashell or nautical decor, and ocean-inspired artwork to extend the joy of seaside adventures right into the living space. 

These themes are particularly appealing for properties near theme parks, fantasy landmarks, or in regions known for their magical folklore. They attract a wide range of guests, from families with children to adults who are part of franchise fandoms. This Ghibli Studio Howl's Moving Castle Airbnb, inspired by the cherished fantasy/adventure film, is a great example!

Ghibli Studio Howl's Moving Castle Airbnb

<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/reel/C4EVg04OXEG/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);"><div style="padding:16px;"> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/C4EVg04OXEG/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank"> <div style=" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div></div></div><div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display:block; height:50px; margin:0 auto 12px; width:50px;"><svg width="50px" height="50px" viewBox="0 0 60 60" version="1.1" xmlns="https://www.w3.org/2000/svg" xmlns:xlink="https://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"><g stroke="none" stroke-width="1" fill="none" fill-rule="evenodd"><g transform="translate(-511.000000, -20.000000)" fill="#000000"><g><path d="M556.869,30.41 C554.814,30.41 553.148,32.076 553.148,34.131 C553.148,36.186 554.814,37.852 556.869,37.852 C558.924,37.852 560.59,36.186 560.59,34.131 C560.59,32.076 558.924,30.41 556.869,30.41 M541,60.657 C535.114,60.657 530.342,55.887 530.342,50 C530.342,44.114 535.114,39.342 541,39.342 C546.887,39.342 551.658,44.114 551.658,50 C551.658,55.887 546.887,60.657 541,60.657 M541,33.886 C532.1,33.886 524.886,41.1 524.886,50 C524.886,58.899 532.1,66.113 541,66.113 C549.9,66.113 557.115,58.899 557.115,50 C557.115,41.1 549.9,33.886 541,33.886 M565.378,62.101 C565.244,65.022 564.756,66.606 564.346,67.663 C563.803,69.06 563.154,70.057 562.106,71.106 C561.058,72.155 560.06,72.803 558.662,73.347 C557.607,73.757 556.021,74.244 553.102,74.378 C549.944,74.521 548.997,74.552 541,74.552 C533.003,74.552 532.056,74.521 528.898,74.378 C525.979,74.244 524.393,73.757 523.338,73.347 C521.94,72.803 520.942,72.155 519.894,71.106 C518.846,70.057 518.197,69.06 517.654,67.663 C517.244,66.606 516.755,65.022 516.623,62.101 C516.479,58.943 516.448,57.996 516.448,50 C516.448,42.003 516.479,41.056 516.623,37.899 C516.755,34.978 517.244,33.391 517.654,32.338 C518.197,30.938 518.846,29.942 519.894,28.894 C520.942,27.846 521.94,27.196 523.338,26.654 C524.393,26.244 525.979,25.756 528.898,25.623 C532.057,25.479 533.004,25.448 541,25.448 C548.997,25.448 549.943,25.479 553.102,25.623 C556.021,25.756 557.607,26.244 558.662,26.654 C560.06,27.196 561.058,27.846 562.106,28.894 C563.154,29.942 563.803,30.938 564.346,32.338 C564.756,33.391 565.244,34.978 565.378,37.899 C565.522,41.056 565.552,42.003 565.552,50 C565.552,57.996 565.522,58.943 565.378,62.101 M570.82,37.631 C570.674,34.438 570.167,32.258 569.425,30.349 C568.659,28.377 567.633,26.702 565.965,25.035 C564.297,23.368 562.623,22.342 560.652,21.575 C558.743,20.834 556.562,20.326 553.369,20.18 C550.169,20.033 549.148,20 541,20 C532.853,20 531.831,20.033 528.631,20.18 C525.438,20.326 523.257,20.834 521.349,21.575 C519.376,22.342 517.703,23.368 516.035,25.035 C514.368,26.702 513.342,28.377 512.574,30.349 C511.834,32.258 511.326,34.438 511.181,37.631 C511.035,40.831 511,41.851 511,50 C511,58.147 511.035,59.17 511.181,62.369 C511.326,65.562 511.834,67.743 512.574,69.651 C513.342,71.625 514.368,73.296 516.035,74.965 C517.703,76.634 519.376,77.658 521.349,78.425 C523.257,79.167 525.438,79.673 528.631,79.82 C531.831,79.965 532.853,80.001 541,80.001 C549.148,80.001 550.169,79.965 553.369,79.82 C556.562,79.673 558.743,79.167 560.652,78.425 C562.623,77.658 564.297,76.634 565.965,74.965 C567.633,73.296 568.659,71.625 569.425,69.651 C570.167,67.743 570.674,65.562 570.82,62.369 C570.966,59.17 571,58.147 571,50 C571,41.851 570.966,40.831 570.82,37.631"></path></g></g></g></svg></div><div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style=" color:#3897f0; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:550; line-height:18px;">View this post on Instagram</div></div><div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"><div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"></div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"></div></div><div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"></div> <div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg)"></div></div><div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style=" width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"></div> <div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"></div></div></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"></div></div></a><p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/C4EVg04OXEG/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Kelly Ann (@anntheadventurer)</a></p></div></blockquote> <script async src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script>

A Pirates of the Caribbean theme is an exciting way to immerse your guests in a swashbuckling adventure. Deck out your Airbnb with elements like weathered treasure maps, antique ship wheels, and rustic wooden furniture to evoke the charm of a pirate ship. 

This theme works exceptionally well for family-friendly rentals or properties that want to:

Reflect pirate or nautical related history or lore in their area

In Orlando, Florida, which is located in close proximity to Walt Disney World Resort and the Pirates of the Caribbean theme park, there are over 170 active Airbnb listings with reviews that mention the word, “pirate.”

Keep in mind that you’ll need to navigate intellectual property considerations carefully. Instead of directly referencing the "Pirates of the Caribbean" franchise, focus on using more generic pirate-themed decor. This approach allows you to capture the spirit of a pirate adventure without infringing on trademarks.

AirDNA data shows a Disney-themed Airbnb can be a magical attraction, especially in areas close to Disney parks. In Orlando, Florida, for instance, there are 600+ active properties mentioning 'Mickey' and Minnie’ in their listings, 150+ with the word ‘princess,’ and another 60 that showcase Toy Story.

Think about incorporating whimsical decor, fairy-tale motifs, and color palettes that reflect the joy and wonder of Disney movies. However, it's crucial to avoid using official Disney trademarks or imagery directly. Instead, use generic fairy-tale elements that evoke the Disney spirit without infringing on Disney's intellectual property.

Envision a galaxy far, far away right in your rental space. In Orlando alone, there are 350+ listings that mention Star Wars in their descriptions. 

This themed experience can include elements like space-inspired decor, futuristic furniture, and artwork depicting iconic Star Wars scenes. It's a hit among fans of the franchise and can be particularly successful in areas with a strong sci-fi or pop culture following. 

A wizard-themed Airbnb, inspired by the world of Harry Potter, can offer a magical and immersive guest experience. Incorporate elements like potion bottles, spell books, and a cozy, Hogwarts-like ambiance. To navigate intellectual property concerns, avoid direct references to Harry Potter characters or specific items from the books and movies in your themed vacation rental. Instead, create a generic wizarding world that hints at the magical universe without directly replicating it. Check out this Harry Potter Quidditch tent Airbnb property! 

Harry Potter Quidditch tent Airbnb property

<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/reel/C4tB4YwOzDE/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);"><div style="padding:16px;"> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/C4tB4YwOzDE/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank"> <div style=" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div></div></div><div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display:block; height:50px; margin:0 auto 12px; width:50px;"><svg width="50px" height="50px" viewBox="0 0 60 60" version="1.1" xmlns="https://www.w3.org/2000/svg" xmlns:xlink="https://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"><g stroke="none" stroke-width="1" fill="none" fill-rule="evenodd"><g transform="translate(-511.000000, -20.000000)" fill="#000000"><g><path d="M556.869,30.41 C554.814,30.41 553.148,32.076 553.148,34.131 C553.148,36.186 554.814,37.852 556.869,37.852 C558.924,37.852 560.59,36.186 560.59,34.131 C560.59,32.076 558.924,30.41 556.869,30.41 M541,60.657 C535.114,60.657 530.342,55.887 530.342,50 C530.342,44.114 535.114,39.342 541,39.342 C546.887,39.342 551.658,44.114 551.658,50 C551.658,55.887 546.887,60.657 541,60.657 M541,33.886 C532.1,33.886 524.886,41.1 524.886,50 C524.886,58.899 532.1,66.113 541,66.113 C549.9,66.113 557.115,58.899 557.115,50 C557.115,41.1 549.9,33.886 541,33.886 M565.378,62.101 C565.244,65.022 564.756,66.606 564.346,67.663 C563.803,69.06 563.154,70.057 562.106,71.106 C561.058,72.155 560.06,72.803 558.662,73.347 C557.607,73.757 556.021,74.244 553.102,74.378 C549.944,74.521 548.997,74.552 541,74.552 C533.003,74.552 532.056,74.521 528.898,74.378 C525.979,74.244 524.393,73.757 523.338,73.347 C521.94,72.803 520.942,72.155 519.894,71.106 C518.846,70.057 518.197,69.06 517.654,67.663 C517.244,66.606 516.755,65.022 516.623,62.101 C516.479,58.943 516.448,57.996 516.448,50 C516.448,42.003 516.479,41.056 516.623,37.899 C516.755,34.978 517.244,33.391 517.654,32.338 C518.197,30.938 518.846,29.942 519.894,28.894 C520.942,27.846 521.94,27.196 523.338,26.654 C524.393,26.244 525.979,25.756 528.898,25.623 C532.057,25.479 533.004,25.448 541,25.448 C548.997,25.448 549.943,25.479 553.102,25.623 C556.021,25.756 557.607,26.244 558.662,26.654 C560.06,27.196 561.058,27.846 562.106,28.894 C563.154,29.942 563.803,30.938 564.346,32.338 C564.756,33.391 565.244,34.978 565.378,37.899 C565.522,41.056 565.552,42.003 565.552,50 C565.552,57.996 565.522,58.943 565.378,62.101 M570.82,37.631 C570.674,34.438 570.167,32.258 569.425,30.349 C568.659,28.377 567.633,26.702 565.965,25.035 C564.297,23.368 562.623,22.342 560.652,21.575 C558.743,20.834 556.562,20.326 553.369,20.18 C550.169,20.033 549.148,20 541,20 C532.853,20 531.831,20.033 528.631,20.18 C525.438,20.326 523.257,20.834 521.349,21.575 C519.376,22.342 517.703,23.368 516.035,25.035 C514.368,26.702 513.342,28.377 512.574,30.349 C511.834,32.258 511.326,34.438 511.181,37.631 C511.035,40.831 511,41.851 511,50 C511,58.147 511.035,59.17 511.181,62.369 C511.326,65.562 511.834,67.743 512.574,69.651 C513.342,71.625 514.368,73.296 516.035,74.965 C517.703,76.634 519.376,77.658 521.349,78.425 C523.257,79.167 525.438,79.673 528.631,79.82 C531.831,79.965 532.853,80.001 541,80.001 C549.148,80.001 550.169,79.965 553.369,79.82 C556.562,79.673 558.743,79.167 560.652,78.425 C562.623,77.658 564.297,76.634 565.965,74.965 C567.633,73.296 568.659,71.625 569.425,69.651 C570.167,67.743 570.674,65.562 570.82,62.369 C570.966,59.17 571,58.147 571,50 C571,41.851 570.966,40.831 570.82,37.631"></path></g></g></g></svg></div><div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style=" color:#3897f0; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:550; line-height:18px;">View this post on Instagram</div></div><div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"><div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"></div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"></div></div><div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"></div> <div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg)"></div></div><div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style=" width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"></div> <div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"></div></div></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"></div></div></a><p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/C4tB4YwOzDE/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Kelly Ann (@anntheadventurer)</a></p></div></blockquote> <script async src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script>

Sports themes are a fantastic choice for Airbnb properties located near sports complexes, stadiums, or in cities renowned for their sports teams. 

Sports team-themed vacation rentals are a great way to celebrate the local culture, especially if your property is in a city with a passionate fan base for a particular team.

This theme could include decor in the team’s colors, artwork depicting the sport, and memorabilia that celebrates local sporting heroes. However, it's crucial to avoid using official logos or merchandise of the sports teams directly, as this could infringe on intellectual property rights. Focus on generic representations that capture the team spirit without using trademarked material.

For an F1 Racing-themed Airbnb, think high-speed and high-energy. This theme is perfect for properties near racing tracks or in cities that host Grand Prix events. 

Decor can include race car models, checkered patterns, and artwork that captures the thrill of racing. Given the niche audience, this theme can offer a unique experience for motorsport enthusiasts. Be mindful of using official F1 branding or team logos. 

Tailoring your Airbnb to a specific sport like baseball, basketball, or hockey can attract fans and players traveling for games or tournaments.

Airbnb owners can Incorporate elements like vintage sports equipment, framed photos of iconic moments in the sport’s history, and themed game rooms (like a mini basketball hoop or a small putting green). This approach allows guests to immerse themselves in their favorite sport during their stay. 

Know exactly how much to charge based on your vacation rental pricing strategy.

Nostalgic themes in Airbnb properties offer guests a unique opportunity to step back in time and relive cherished memories and iconic eras.

A Barbie Dream House rental is a popular theme for Airbnb hosts looking to create a fun, vibrant, and playful atmosphere. According to AirDNA research, there are currently 70+ active Airbnb properties in the United States with “Barbie” mentioned in the description. 

Include bright, pastel color palettes, chic and stylish decor, and whimsical furnishings that capture the essence of the iconic Barbie lifestyle. This theme is perfect for bachelorette parties, family stays, Barbie movie lovers, or anyone who wants a touch of glam and nostalgia. 

While embracing this theme, avoid directly using Barbie trademarks or dolls. Instead, focus on recreating the stylish, glamorous vibe associated with Barbie.

For gaming enthusiasts and lovers of nostalgia, a retro video game-themed Airbnb can be a big hit. Think classic arcade machines, decor inspired by popular video games from the 80s and 90s, and vibrant, pixel-art style decorations. Boost your rental’s appeal by offering unconventional entertainment options.

This theme is great for properties aiming to attract families, groups of friends, or guests who grew up in the golden era of arcade gaming. 

An Old Hollywood-themed rental offers classic glamor and elegance, perfect for properties that want to evoke the golden age of cinema. Decorate with black-and-white movie stills, vintage film equipment, and Art Deco-inspired furnishings. 

As you’ve likely figured out by now, furniture plays a big part in creating the right atmosphere for your theme. Be sure to check out AirDNA’s guide on how to choose the right furnishings for your Airbnb. 

Highlight Your Theme in The Property Description

The best airbnb theme ideas need to be paired with a well-executed description in the listing in order to drive up bookings. Showcases the specific aspects of your theme and set up the right expectations in your description:

Be Descriptive: Use vivid language to paint a picture of the experience. For example, instead of saying "pirate-themed room," describe it as "a swashbuckling pirate's den, complete with a treasure map and a ship's wheel."

Tell a Story: Create a narrative around your theme. If you have a beach-themed Airbnb, talk about the soothing sounds of waves and the serene beachside ambiance that awaits the guests.

Keep it Concise: While details are important, make it easy for potential guests to grasp the essence of your theme quickly by hitting the highlights in your description.

Need a little inspiration? Here are some examples of descriptions of themed Airbnb rentals that AirDNA found to have great ratings:

“Cool off in our magical ice castles bedroom, slide into the levels of your favorite video games, defeat your enemies in our superhero bedroom, bring your toys to life with your favorite cowboy and space captain or cast a spell in the world of wizardry bedroom. Whether you’re a princess, superhero, or gaming fan, we’ve got you covered.”

“Congratulations. You’ve discovered an airy and delightful five-bedroom property at the exclusive Encore Resort—just minutes from Disney’s iconic theme parks. In addition to upscale modern furnishings, it boasts a sparkling pool and spa, a game room, home theater, and bedrooms that can sleep up to 12 including galactic- and snow princess-themed rooms for your space hero and royal highness!”

“Ever wanted to stay at the Haunted Mansion? This centrally-located and newly renovated historical home offers the perfect setting to complete your Salem Witch experience”

Maximize Impact With Themed Airbnb Vacation Rentals

Choosing a theme for a short-term rental is not simply an artistic choice. Themes can play a role in your overall strategy by influencing your pricing strategy and market position. A well-executed theme can justify higher price points, as guests are often willing to pay more for a themed rental experience.

You don’t necessarily need to come up with over-the-top Airbnb ideas. Consider your location and what is drawing your guests to that area. Choose a theme that resonates with your target audience and enhances their overall experience. Then have fun with it! 

AirDNA’s vacation rental pricing tool uses data-driven recommendations to propose the best daily rates.

Choosing the right theme for your Airbnb can significantly enhance the guest experience and set your rental apart in a competitive market.

Key Takeaways
Tailor your Airbnb theme to match your typical guests and reflect the ambiance and/or attractions of your location.
Based on AirDNA’s analysis of property descriptions, popular short-term rental themes include beach, Disney, sports, gaming and Barbie, among others.
Use vivid, narrative descriptions in your listing to bring your theme to life and make your property more appealing to potential guests.

Looking to make your Airbnb listing stand out? Themes are a great way to impress your guests and provide a memorable experience. However, choosing the right theme for your short-term rental can be challenging. 

That's why AirDNA analyzed thousands of guest reviews to find the best Airbnb theme ideas for short-term rentals. This list can provide you with some inspiration and help you choose a theme to fit your location and your typical guest demographic.

Try Our Vacation Rental Pricing Tool

Use Smart Rates™ to optimize your pricing strategy.

Try here for free
How to Choose the Perfect Theme for Your Airbnb

Themed rentals are about more than aesthetics. You’re creating an experience that resonates with your guests and sets your property apart in a competitive market. Choosing a theme for your Airbnb can transform a simple vacation rental into a memorable retreat, leading to increased bookings and glowing reviews. 

Here are some key considerations for choosing your Airbnb theme:  

Understand Your Target Audience

Different themes appeal to different types of people, so aligning your theme with your target audience is important. 

For instance, if your Airbnb primarily attracts families, consider themes that are fun, safe, and engaging for all ages. Themes like "Adventure Safari" or "Enchanted Forest" can captivate children's imaginations while still appealing to adults. 

If your property is a favorite among couples seeking romantic getaways, themes such as "Rustic Romance" can set the perfect mood for a love-filled vacation. Notice how even the name of your themed vacation rental can impact guests' perceptions and attract a specific audience.

In addition to considering who your guests are, ask yourself why they are coming to your area. Does your rental location have a main attraction? What type of vacation are most travelers seeking in your area? The best airbnb theme ideas align with the tourism in your area.

Leverage Your Location

Your location often serves as a great backdrop for a themed vacation rental. A coastal property located in a summer destination, for instance, is the perfect candidate for a nautical or beach house theme. A "Winter Wonderland" themed rental makes sense for properties in colder climates that see their highest occupancy during ski season.

If your rental is near a national park, a nature-inspired retreat with natural materials and earthy colors can complement the outdoor experience. Urban properties can lean towards modern or culturally inspired themes that reflect the city's vibe.

Consider seasonality, too. Updating short-term rentals with decorations for various holidays, for example, offers an excellent opportunity for you to refresh your decor style from time to time. Changing your interior design on a regular basis keeps your listing interesting and updated for repeat guests.

Stand Out in the Market

Don't shy away from bold or unconventional themes, especially if they tell a story or offer an unusual experience.

Unique themes, like "70s Disco" or "Under the Sea" makes your property memorable. Striking themes often motivate guests to share their experiences and, in turn, market your rental.

Boost Your Rental Revenue

The Most Popular Airbnb Theme Ideas

AirDNA has created a list of the top Airbnb themes using our algorithm-based analysis of guest reviews. From classic favorites to trending themes, this list provides data-driven insights to help you make an informed decision about your own unique Airbnb theme. 

Tropical or Coastal Escape 

Ideal for properties near the shore, beach or coastal themes utilize visual elements like sandy tones, seashell or nautical decor, and ocean-inspired artwork to extend the joy of seaside adventures right into the living space. 

Fantasy and Adventure Themes

These themes are particularly appealing for properties near theme parks, fantasy landmarks, or in regions known for their magical folklore. They attract a wide range of guests, from families with children to adults who are part of franchise fandoms. This Ghibli Studio Howl's Moving Castle Airbnb, inspired by the cherished fantasy/adventure film, is a great example!

Ghibli Studio Howl's Moving Castle Airbnb
Pirates of the Caribbean

A Pirates of the Caribbean theme is an exciting way to immerse your guests in a swashbuckling adventure. Deck out your Airbnb with elements like weathered treasure maps, antique ship wheels, and rustic wooden furniture to evoke the charm of a pirate ship. 

This theme works exceptionally well for family-friendly rentals or properties that want to:

Provide a unique and playful experience
Reflect pirate or nautical related history or lore in their area
Showcase local pirate-themed attractions

In Orlando, Florida, which is located in close proximity to Walt Disney World Resort and the Pirates of the Caribbean theme park, there are over 170 active Airbnb listings with reviews that mention the word, “pirate.”

Keep in mind that you’ll need to navigate intellectual property considerations carefully. Instead of directly referencing the "Pirates of the Caribbean" franchise, focus on using more generic pirate-themed decor. This approach allows you to capture the spirit of a pirate adventure without infringing on trademarks.

Customize Your Pricing
Try AirDNA for free

Disney-Themed

AirDNA data shows a Disney-themed Airbnb can be a magical attraction, especially in areas close to Disney parks. In Orlando, Florida, for instance, there are 600+ active properties mentioning 'Mickey' and Minnie’ in their listings, 150+ with the word ‘princess,’ and another 60 that showcase Toy Story.

Think about incorporating whimsical decor, fairy-tale motifs, and color palettes that reflect the joy and wonder of Disney movies. However, it's crucial to avoid using official Disney trademarks or imagery directly. Instead, use generic fairy-tale elements that evoke the Disney spirit without infringing on Disney's intellectual property.

Star Wars 

Envision a galaxy far, far away right in your rental space. In Orlando alone, there are 350+ listings that mention Star Wars in their descriptions. 

This themed experience can include elements like space-inspired decor, futuristic furniture, and artwork depicting iconic Star Wars scenes. It's a hit among fans of the franchise and can be particularly successful in areas with a strong sci-fi or pop culture following. 

 Learn about Dynamic Pricing

Harry Potter (Wizard-Themed)

A wizard-themed Airbnb, inspired by the world of Harry Potter, can offer a magical and immersive guest experience. Incorporate elements like potion bottles, spell books, and a cozy, Hogwarts-like ambiance. To navigate intellectual property concerns, avoid direct references to Harry Potter characters or specific items from the books and movies in your themed vacation rental. Instead, create a generic wizarding world that hints at the magical universe without directly replicating it. Check out this Harry Potter Quidditch tent Airbnb property! 

Harry Potter Quidditch tent Airbnb property

Sports Themes

Sports themes are a fantastic choice for Airbnb properties located near sports complexes, stadiums, or in cities renowned for their sports teams. 

Area Sports Team

Sports team-themed vacation rentals are a great way to celebrate the local culture, especially if your property is in a city with a passionate fan base for a particular team.

This theme could include decor in the team’s colors, artwork depicting the sport, and memorabilia that celebrates local sporting heroes. However, it's crucial to avoid using official logos or merchandise of the sports teams directly, as this could infringe on intellectual property rights. Focus on generic representations that capture the team spirit without using trademarked material.

F1 Racing 

For an F1 Racing-themed Airbnb, think high-speed and high-energy. This theme is perfect for properties near racing tracks or in cities that host Grand Prix events. 

Decor can include race car models, checkered patterns, and artwork that captures the thrill of racing. Given the niche audience, this theme can offer a unique experience for motorsport enthusiasts. Be mindful of using official F1 branding or team logos. 

Specific Sport Highlight 

Tailoring your Airbnb to a specific sport like baseball, basketball, or hockey can attract fans and players traveling for games or tournaments.

Airbnb owners can Incorporate elements like vintage sports equipment, framed photos of iconic moments in the sport’s history, and themed game rooms (like a mini basketball hoop or a small putting green). This approach allows guests to immerse themselves in their favorite sport during their stay. 

Host Confidently

Know exactly how much to charge based on your vacation rental pricing strategy.

Learn more
Nostalgic Themes

Nostalgic themes in Airbnb properties offer guests a unique opportunity to step back in time and relive cherished memories and iconic eras.

Barbie Dream House

A Barbie Dream House rental is a popular theme for Airbnb hosts looking to create a fun, vibrant, and playful atmosphere. According to AirDNA research, there are currently 70+ active Airbnb properties in the United States with “Barbie” mentioned in the description. 

Include bright, pastel color palettes, chic and stylish decor, and whimsical furnishings that capture the essence of the iconic Barbie lifestyle. This theme is perfect for bachelorette parties, family stays, Barbie movie lovers, or anyone who wants a touch of glam and nostalgia. 

While embracing this theme, avoid directly using Barbie trademarks or dolls. Instead, focus on recreating the stylish, glamorous vibe associated with Barbie.

Retro Video Game Theme

For gaming enthusiasts and lovers of nostalgia, a retro video game-themed Airbnb can be a big hit. Think classic arcade machines, decor inspired by popular video games from the 80s and 90s, and vibrant, pixel-art style decorations. Boost your rental’s appeal by offering unconventional entertainment options.

This theme is great for properties aiming to attract families, groups of friends, or guests who grew up in the golden era of arcade gaming. 

Old Hollywood Theme

An Old Hollywood-themed rental offers classic glamor and elegance, perfect for properties that want to evoke the golden age of cinema. Decorate with black-and-white movie stills, vintage film equipment, and Art Deco-inspired furnishings. 

As you’ve likely figured out by now, furniture plays a big part in creating the right atmosphere for your theme. Be sure to check out AirDNA’s guide on how to choose the right furnishings for your Airbnb. 

Automate your pricing

Highlight Your Theme in The Property Description

The best airbnb theme ideas need to be paired with a well-executed description in the listing in order to drive up bookings. Showcases the specific aspects of your theme and set up the right expectations in your description:

Be Descriptive: Use vivid language to paint a picture of the experience. For example, instead of saying "pirate-themed room," describe it as "a swashbuckling pirate's den, complete with a treasure map and a ship's wheel."
Tell a Story: Create a narrative around your theme. If you have a beach-themed Airbnb, talk about the soothing sounds of waves and the serene beachside ambiance that awaits the guests.
Keep it Concise: While details are important, make it easy for potential guests to grasp the essence of your theme quickly by hitting the highlights in your description.
Get nightly rate recommendations
Connect your Airbnb

Need a little inspiration? Here are some examples of descriptions of themed Airbnb rentals that AirDNA found to have great ratings:

Orlando, Florida:

“Cool off in our magical ice castles bedroom, slide into the levels of your favorite video games, defeat your enemies in our superhero bedroom, bring your toys to life with your favorite cowboy and space captain or cast a spell in the world of wizardry bedroom. Whether you’re a princess, superhero, or gaming fan, we’ve got you covered.”

“Congratulations. You’ve discovered an airy and delightful five-bedroom property at the exclusive Encore Resort—just minutes from Disney’s iconic theme parks. In addition to upscale modern furnishings, it boasts a sparkling pool and spa, a game room, home theater, and bedrooms that can sleep up to 12 including galactic- and snow princess-themed rooms for your space hero and royal highness!”

Salem, Massachusetts

“Ever wanted to stay at the Haunted Mansion? This centrally-located and newly renovated historical home offers the perfect setting to complete your Salem Witch experience”

Maximize Impact With Themed Airbnb Vacation Rentals

Choosing a theme for a short-term rental is not simply an artistic choice. Themes can play a role in your overall strategy by influencing your pricing strategy and market position. A well-executed theme can justify higher price points, as guests are often willing to pay more for a themed rental experience.

You don’t necessarily need to come up with over-the-top Airbnb ideas. Consider your location and what is drawing your guests to that area. Choose a theme that resonates with your target audience and enhances their overall experience. Then have fun with it! 

Get Inspired: Popular Themes for Airbnb Rentals

ARTICLE SUMMARY

QUICK NAVIGATION