How to Rent a Family-Friendly Villa (For Less Than the Cost of a Resort)

When planning a family vacation, many travelers default to resorts for convenience. However, renting a private villa can be a more affordable and comfortable option, especially for larger families or multi-generational trips. Villas offer privacy, extra space, and home-like amenities, often at a lower price per night than a resort room—without sacrificing luxury.

In this guide, we’ll cover:

✔️ Where to find the best family-friendly villas

✔️ How to save money when booking

✔️ What to look for to ensure a stress-free stay

---

Why a Villa Can Be Cheaper Than a Resort

While resorts offer all-inclusive meals, pools, and entertainment, they also charge per room—which adds up quickly for larger families. Villas, on the other hand, often charge per night, not per person, and include full kitchens, multiple bedrooms, and private pools, eliminating extra costs.

Cost Comparison: Villa vs. Resort

For a family of 4 staying in a Caribbean resort, the price can easily exceed $500 per night, plus expensive restaurant meals. A private beachfront villa in the same location might cost $350 per night and have a kitchen, saving hundreds on food.

---

Best Destinations for Affordable Family Villas

Looking for affordable villa destinations? These spots offer amazing family-friendly villas for less than a resort stay:

1. Bali, Indonesia

🌴 Why it’s great: Villas with private pools start at just $50 per night.

📍 Best family areas: Ubud (for jungle adventures), Canggu (for beach vibes).

2. Portugal’s Algarve Coast

🏖 Why it’s great: Affordable oceanfront villas in a safe, kid-friendly environment.

📍 Best family areas: Lagos (for beach days), Albufeira (for water parks).

3. Mexico’s Riviera Maya

🌊 Why it’s great: Spacious beachfront villas for half the cost of a Cancun resort.

📍 Best family areas: Playa del Carmen, Tulum.

4. Tuscany, Italy

🍇 Why it’s great: Gorgeous countryside farmhouse villas with family activities like pasta-making and vineyard tours.

📍 Best family areas: Chianti, Lucca.

5. Costa Rica

🌿 Why it’s great: Eco-friendly jungle lodges and beach villas at great rates.

📍 Best family areas: Manuel Antonio, Tamarindo.

---

Where to Find the Best Family-Friendly Villas

If you want the best selection of villas at the lowest prices, check out these reputable platforms:

1. Vrbo – Best for Large Family Villas

Unlike Airbnb, which focuses on apartments and shared spaces, Vrbo specializes in entire home rentals, making it perfect for families who want privacy and space.

🔹 Best For: Large villas in Europe, the Caribbean, and the U.S.

🔹 Bonus: Vrbo’s filter system makes it easy to find kid-friendly properties with cribs, fenced yards, and game rooms.

2. Plum Guide – Best for Luxury Villas Without the Price Tag

If you love high-end resorts but want more space, Plum Guide curates only the top-rated villas, ensuring luxury stays for less.

🔹 Best For: High-end family villas in Italy, Spain, and Greece

🔹 Bonus: Properties are vetted for quality and comfort, so no surprises.

3. Marriott Homes & Villas – Best for Resort-Like Amenities

This is Marriott’s version of Airbnb, offering professionally managed homes that still feel like a luxury resort stay.

🔹 Best For: Families who love resorts but want a private villa experience

🔹 Bonus: Earn Marriott Bonvoy points when booking!

4. Airbnb – Best for Unique Family Stays

From treehouses to farm stays, Airbnb is perfect for families seeking a unique experience.

🔹 Best For: Families looking for affordable rentals with character

🔹 Bonus: Airbnb’s Superhost program highlights trusted, family-friendly properties.

---

How to Save Money When Booking a Villa

Book Directly With Villa Owners

Websites like The Thinking Traveller and Oliver’s Travels allow you to book luxury villas directly from owners, cutting out platform fees and saving 10-20%.

Travel Off-Peak for Lower Prices

Just like resorts, villas cost more during peak seasons. Consider traveling during the shoulder season (April-May, September-October) for better deals.

Stay Longer for Discounts

Many villa owners offer discounts for stays of a week or more—sometimes up to 25% off the nightly rate.

Use Credit Card Points for Free Nights

If you book through platforms like Marriott Homes & Villas, you can use points to cover part of your stay, reducing costs dramatically.

Compare Prices on Multiple Platforms

A villa listed on Airbnb may be cheaper on Vrbo, so always check multiple booking sites before finalizing your reservation.

---

What to Look for in a Family-Friendly Villa

✅ A Safe, Enclosed Outdoor Space

If you’re traveling with younger kids, check for fenced yards, pool gates, and secure balconies.

✅ Kid-Friendly Amenities

Look for villas with cribs, high chairs, play areas, and board games to make your stay easier.

✅ Proximity to Grocery Stores & Attractions

A villa 30 minutes from the nearest restaurant might not be convenient—choose locations with nearby supermarkets, restaurants, and activities.

✅ A Well-Equipped Kitchen

One of the biggest advantages of a villa over a resort is being able to cook meals. Look for a kitchen with a stove, microwave, and basic cooking essentials.

✅ Fast & Reliable Wi-Fi

If you or your kids need to stream movies, play games, or do remote schoolwork, check guest reviews for Wi-Fi speed before booking.

---

Final Thoughts: Villas Offer More for Less

For families looking for a budget-friendly, comfortable, and private vacation, renting a villa is often cheaper than a resort—without sacrificing luxury.

Key Takeaways:

✔️ Villas cost less per person than resort rooms

✔️ You save money on food with a kitchen

✔️ Many villas include private pools and kid-friendly spaces

✔️ Booking directly or off-peak can save 20% or more

Would you try a villa for your next family vacation?