Industry

What is Airbnb Luxe?

Updated 2026-05-28

Airbnb Luxe is an elite category of listings on Airbnb that provides access to extraordinary homes with dedicated, five-star service. To qualify, properties must pass a rigorous 300+ point in-person inspection covering everything from design standards and architectural significance to the quality of appliances and linens.

A key differentiator of the Luxe experience is the inclusion of a personal trip designer who assists with booking bespoke arrangements like private chefs, in-house spa treatments, or local excursions.

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How it works

Property owners must apply or be invited to have their homes considered for the Luxe collection. If the initial criteria are met, a third-party inspector conducts a thorough on-site evaluation.

Once a property passes this inspection, it is featured in the exclusive Airbnb Luxe section. For guests, the booking process begins like a standard Airbnb search but concludes with the assignment of a trip designer.

This specialist then works with the guest to coordinate all aspects of their stay, from arrival logistics and pre-stocking the pantry to arranging complex itineraries and experiences.

Why it matters

For Airbnb, the Luxe tier represents a strategic expansion into the high-end hospitality sector, directly competing with luxury hotels and exclusive villa rental agencies. For property managers of elite homes, inclusion in the Luxe program offers significant prestige, access to an affluent international clientele, and the ability to command premium nightly rates.

This elevates the perception of vacation rentals within the broader travel industry, solidifying them as a top choice for even the most discerning travelers. See the official website for current details.

Examples

  • A family books a 10-bedroom private island estate in French Polynesia through Airbnb Luxe for a multi-generational reunion. Their trip designer arranges for a private chef, a yacht charter for the week, and daily scuba diving excursions.
  • A corporation reserves a sprawling Tuscan villa via Airbnb Luxe for an executive retreat. The trip designer coordinates airport transfers, meeting room setup within the villa, and a local wine-tasting tour as a team-building activity.
  • A celebrity couple books a fully-staffed modern chalet in Aspen through Airbnb Luxe for a private getaway. Their trip designer ensures the pantry is stocked with specific requested items, arranges for in-house ski fittings, and books a private mountain guide.
  • An art collector rents a historic penthouse in Paris from the Airbnb Luxe collection. The trip designer secures private, after-hours tours of nearby museums and arranges for a dinner party catered by a Michelin-starred chef.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between Airbnb Plus and Airbnb Luxe?+
Airbnb Plus features well-designed, highly-rated homes verified in person for quality, comfort, and standard amenities. Airbnb Luxe is a significant step above, offering the most extraordinary properties with premium features, and most importantly, it includes an exclusive trip designer to provide 24/7 concierge services and create custom experiences. The inspection for Luxe is far more extensive, and the properties represent the top tier of the market.
How can a property be listed on Airbnb Luxe?+
Listing is by invitation or through a rigorous application process. The property must meet exceptional standards in design, location, amenities, and service. If it qualifies for consideration, it must then pass a comprehensive, 300+ point in-person inspection to be accepted into the exclusive collection.
Is a trip designer included with every Airbnb Luxe booking?+
Yes, complimentary access to a dedicated trip designer is a core, non-optional feature of the Airbnb Luxe service. This specialist is available with every booking to help guests meticulously plan and coordinate all aspects of their trip, from basic logistics to elaborate, one-of-a-kind activities.
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