12 Best Countries in Europe for High Airbnb Yields in 2026
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These are the 12 best countries in Europe for high Airbnb yields in 2026. They offer excellent occupancy and solid ADR, leading to strong revenue.
- Last updated February 12, 2026
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By
Jae Seok An
Europe remains one of the most competitive and rewarding global regions for short-term rental investing, and in 2026 the opportunity is stronger than ever. With year-round tourism, world-class cities, high-demand coastal destinations, and premium bucket list travel experiences, many European markets deliver the rare combination investors look for: Strong occupancy, high nightly rates, and consistent booking momentum. But not every market performs the same, and local regulations, property prices, and demand seasonality can impact profitability.
In this article, we’ll rank the 12 best countries in Europe for high Airbnb yields in 2026, using Airbtics market data to spotlight where hosts generate the highest average earnings. With their diverse locations, various attractions, and strong performance metrics, these markets can suit the requirements of different investors.
Key Takeaways:
- In 2026, European countries continue to offer strong potential for Airbnb investments, driven by tourist activities and reasonable property prices, but not all markets are created equal, so you have to focus on those that provide the right conditions.
- Some of the best real estate markets to invest in Airbnb in Europe in 2026 include Iceland, Switzerland, the UK, Ireland, and the Netherlands.
- The inclusive Airbtics Global Airbnb Investment Dataset supports data-backed short-term rental investment decisions via access to crucial data and analytics.
Why Should You Buy an Airbnb Property in Europe in 2026?
Europe remains one of the most attractive global regions for Airbnb investing in 2026 due to the strong tourism demand, premium average daily rates (ADR), and multiple profitable strategies across countries and property types.
With its long tourism history and rich diversity, Europe offers the following benefits to new and established Airbnb hosts:
- Year-round travel demand: Europe performs well across seasons, offering summer beach travel in Spain, Portugal, Greece, Italy, and Malta, winter tourism opportunities in Switzerland, Austria, and Iceland, and steady city breaks in the UK, Netherlands, and Ireland.
- High revenue potential from strong nightly prices: Many European markets support high daily rates, helping hosts earn strong income even without extreme occupancy.
- Resilient tourism across regions: With travelers coming from within Europe and internationally from the US, the Middle East, and Asia, demand for short-term accommodations tends to stay strong even when economic conditions shift.
- Multiple profitable property strategies: Investors can generate high revenue beyond city apartments, including beachfront Airbnb investments, rural getaways, ski properties, and unique stays.
- Second home combined with rental flexibility: Europe is ideal for buyers who want a lifestyle property that they can also monetize during peak seasons.
- Diversification opportunities: Europe offers a wide mix of markets featuring high ADR, strong occupancy, and growing urban demand, making it easier to spread risk across locations.
- Affordable property prices: Many European markets offer lower real estate prices than top US and Asian investment destinations, accounting for some of the best countries to invest in Airbnb on a budget for high returns.
With these advantages in mind, let’s move on to the best places to start an Airbnb in Europe in 2026.
12 Most Profitable Airbnb Markets in Europe in 2026: Strongest Revenue
The 12 best Airbnb markets in Europe with the highest short-term rental income in 2026 include:
Country | Average Airbnb Revenue | Average Airbnb Occupancy Rate | Airbnb Average Daily Rate (ADR) | Active Airbnb Listings | Property Prices | Foreign Land Ownership |
Iceland | $39,580 | 73% | $284 | 8,829 | Mid | Allowed, with additional taxes or light restrictions |
Switzerland | $36,093 | 63% | $265 | 45,919 | High | Allowed, with significant restrictions |
UK | $31,647 | 63% | $237 | 353,797 | High | Unrestricted |
Ireland | $29,545 | 65% | $218 | 27,427 | High | Unrestricted |
Netherlands | $29,198 | 71% | $217 | 44,687 | High | Unrestricted |
Austria | $28,476 | 63% | $203 | 45,081 | High | Allowed, with significant restrictions |
Belgium | $27,774 | 64% | $192 | 36,593 | High | Unrestricted |
Spain | $26,558 | 66% | $206 | 398,820 | High | Unrestricted, with exceptions |
Portugal | $25,816 | 67% | $180 | 103,816 | Mid | Unrestricted |
Italy | $23,441 | 62% | $189 | 476,411 | High | Unrestricted |
Malta | $23,035 | 74% | $146 | 12,306 | Mid | Allowed, with significant restrictions |
Greece | $21,148 | 65% | $185 | 141,905 | Mid | Allowed, with additional taxes or light restrictions |
Data Sources: Airbtics, The World Bank, Government Websites & More
Next, let’s find out what makes each of these countries one of the best short-term rental markets in Europe from an investor’s point of view:
1. Iceland
Iceland is one of Europe’s strongest Airbnb markets for revenue, combining high pricing power with consistently strong Airbnb demand. With an average annual revenue of $39,580, an excellent occupancy rate of 73%, and a top-notch ADR of $284, it stands out as a global-quality short-term rental destination. Tourism remains strong year-round owing to nature-based travel, the Northern Lights, and Reykjavik’s growing city-break appeal. While foreign ownership is allowed, investors should plan for additional taxes or light restrictions depending on the property type and location.
2. Switzerland
Switzerland is a premium short-term rental market where high ADRs translate into strong yields, especially in alpine and luxury destinations. Airbtics data shows average annual revenue of $36,093, with a 63% occupancy and a strong ADR of $265, reflecting travelers’ willingness to pay for quality stays. Demand is supported by skiing, mountain tourism, business travel, and high-income visitors throughout the year. Property prices are high, and foreign buyers face significant restrictions, so it’s best suited for experienced investors with a clear acquisition strategy.
3. United Kingdom
United Kingdom remains one of Europe’s most attractive Airbnb markets due to its large domestic travel demand and constant international tourism flows. With $31,647 in average Airbnb revenue, a 63% occupancy, and an average nightly rate of $237, it offers a strong balance between pricing and year-round Airbnb bookings. Investors can target diverse demand segments – from London’s global tourism and business travel to coastal weekend markets and countryside getaways. Foreign land ownership is unrestricted, which adds flexibility for international investors exploring European STR opportunities.
4. Ireland
Ireland offers high-performing Airbnb potential supported by both tourism and limited accommodation supply in key locations. The market generates an average annual Airbnb revenue of $29,545 with an Airbnb occupancy rate of 65% and a solid ADR of $218, making it a strong yield candidate. Dublin, Galway, Cork, and scenic regions like Kerry attract international and regional travelers throughout most of the year. With unrestricted foreign ownership, Ireland can be an accessible entry point for beginner vacation rental investors seeking stable demand and premium pricing.
5. Netherlands
The Netherlands combines consistently high occupancy with strong ADR levels, making it one of Europe’s most attractive high-yield vacation rental markets. Airbtics data shows $29,198 in average annual revenue, driven by a 71% occupancy – one of the highest in this list – and an average daily rate of $217. Amsterdam’s global travel appeal, plus strong regional demand in cities like Rotterdam and Utrecht, supports steady bookings across seasons. Foreign ownership is unrestricted, though city-level Airbnb regulations in the Netherlands may impact short-term rental licensing and maximum nights.
6. Austria
Austria is a top European choice for investors seeking stable tourism activities and strong performance across summer and winter seasons. The country generates an average of $28,476 in Airbnb revenue, supported by a 63% occupancy rate and daily rates averaging $203. Ski tourism, alpine retreats, and cultural hubs like Vienna help create multi-season booking potential. However, property prices are high, and foreign ownership is allowed with significant restrictions, so due diligence is essential before purchasing.
7. Belgium
Belgium offers a strong mix of business travel, city tourism, and easy regional connectivity that supports year-round Airbnb demand. With average annual revenue of $27,774, driven by a 64% occupancy rate and a $192 ADR, it performs well for a relatively compact country. Brussels brings international business travelers, while Bruges, Ghent, and Antwerp attract steady leisure visitors. Foreign ownership is unrestricted, making Belgium a straightforward European market for international STR investors.
8. Spain
Spain remains one of Europe’s biggest Airbnb economies, with huge tourism demand across beaches, islands, and major cities. Airbtics data shows an average annual revenue of $26,558, with an average Airbnb occupancy rate of 66% and ADR of $206, reflecting strong pricing potential in high-demand areas. Investors benefit from diverse options, including Barcelona and Madrid for urban demand, and Costa del Sol, Balearics, and the Canary Islands for leisure-driven occupancy. Foreign ownership is largely unrestricted, though some areas have exceptions and licensing controls that investors must consider carefully.
9. Portugal
Portugal is widely seen as one of Europe’s most STR-friendly markets thanks to strong tourism growth and relatively accessible property options. It generates $25,816 in average annual Airbnb revenue with a 67% occupancy and a $180 ADR, showing a healthy balance between bookings and nightly pricing. Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve remain top areas for international travelers, while smaller coastal towns are gaining momentum. With unrestricted foreign ownership and mid-level property prices, Portugal is a strong candidate for investors optimizing for yield and long-term demand.
10. Italy
Italy is one of the most globally recognizable travel destinations, supporting massive short-term rental demand across all seasons. Airbtics shows $23,441 in average annual Airbnb revenue, with an average occupancy of 62% and a $189 ADR, driven by strong leisure travel demand. Major cities like Rome, Florence, Milan, and Venice deliver consistent bookings, while coastal and countryside regions perform strongly during peak seasons. Foreign ownership is unrestricted, although competition is high, so property uniqueness and location selection matter. All in all, Italy has established its position as one of the best places for Airbnb investment in Europe and globally.
11. Malta
Malta is a compact, high-demand island market with excellent Airbnb performance metrics, particularly occupancy. It generates $23,035 in average annual revenue with a standout occupancy of 74% – the highest on this list – despite a lower nightly rate of $146. The island’s year-round tourism, English-speaking environment, and strong short-break travel demand help drive consistent bookings. Foreign ownership is allowed but comes with significant restrictions, so international investors should review purchase conditions carefully.
12. Greece
Greece continues to attract strong global tourism demand, making it a compelling European destination for short-term rental income. Airbtics data shows an average annual revenue of $21,148, with 65% occupancy and a solid ADR of $185, especially in top islands and tourist hotspots. Beyond Athens, markets like Santorini, Mykonos, Crete, and Rhodes can deliver strong seasonal returns and premium ADR potential. Foreign ownership is allowed with additional taxes or light restrictions, which can vary depending on location and property classification.
Wondering how to find the best place to buy an Airbnb property in Europe aligned with your investment criteria?
Check out the Airbtics Market Explorer, which allows you to search cities across different countries and compare their vacation rental yield, revenue, nightly rate, occupancy, property price, number of listings, and STR regulations.
With a few clicks of a button, you can find the destination that aligns with your budget and aspirations for profitable Airbnb investments.
How We Selected the Best Countries to Invest in Europe in 2026: Key Factors
To identify the top STR markets in Europe in 2026, we evaluated each country using a mix of Airbnb performance indicators and investor-focused considerations, balancing income potential with risk, accessibility, and long-term demand.
In specific, we focused on the following factors:
- Average Airbnb rental income: First and foremost, we ranked countries based on average vacation rental income as higher annual revenue signals stronger earning potential and better yield prospects.
- Occupancy rate: We prioritized markets with consistently high occupancy throughout the year as they typically offer more stable cash flow and lower income volatility.
- Average daily rate (ADR): We focused on countries with higher ADR as this indicator reflects pricing power and often increases profitability even with moderate occupancy.
- Tourism demand and seasonality: We favored destinations with either year-round demand or multiple peak seasons (for instance, summer and winter).
- Market saturation (active listings): We included countries with lower supply relative to demand as they can support better occupancy and pricing, while highly saturated markets require stronger differentiation.
- Property prices and affordability: We concentrated on more affordable markets since they have the power to deliver better returns, faster break-even, and stronger performance in terms of cash on cash return and cap rate.
- Short-term rental regulations: We took into account local Airbnb rules including licensing laws, occupancy caps, zoning restrictions, and enforcement levels as they can directly affect feasibility and future returns.
- Foreign land and property ownership rules: We considered whether international investors can buy property easily or face limitations and added compliance steps.
- Real estate residency incentives: We prioritized countries with Golden Visa programs for Airbnb properties for investors who might be looking for the benefits that come with this option.
- Tax environment (property and rental income): We looked at local tax burdens, including registration fees, VAT rules, and income tax on STR revenue, as they impact net income and profitability.
- Infrastructure and accessibility: We looked for European countries with strong airport connectivity, transport networks, and digital infrastructure to help support consistent bookings.
- Long-term growth potential: We prioritized markets with strong travel momentum, improving infrastructure, rising international interest, and above-average real estate appreciation.
As these are the main factors that drive strong STR yields, you can use the same criteria to pinpoint the best local markets for vacation rentals in Europe to match your investor expectations.
How to Find the Best Places to Invest in Vacation Rentals in Europe
Identifying the best ROI Airbnb markets in Europe or anywhere else requires access to accurate, reliable, and up-to-date short-term rental data. However, first-time investors find it hard to locate trustworthy sources for much-needed Airbnb data and analytics, especially in markets away from home.
The good news is that the Airbtics Global Airbnb Investment Dataset pulls together all the quantitative data and qualitative information you need for profitable short-term rental investments. You get immediate access to all the must-have data points for 100 countries (those with 3,000+ active STR listings), including:
- Average Airbnb revenue
- Average Airbnb occupancy rate
- Average Airbnb daily rate (ADR)
- Number of active Airbnb listings
- Number of markets with 500+ active Airbnb listings
- Property prices
- GDP growth
- Population growth
- Foreign land ownership
- Residency by real estate investment program
Check out the exact format in which the data comes for each included country:
With this level of detail, you can quickly and easily make confident, data-backed Airbnb investment decisions that boost your ROI. Whether you’re aiming for one of the best European destinations for Airbnb investment or any other global location, you can save months worth of research while enhancing the profitability of your move.
Once you’ve decided on the best country in Europe for Airbnb investing according to your personal preferences and criteria, you can use the Airbtics Market Explorer to find the top-performing local cities.
Final Words
Investing in Airbnb markets with fast-growing economies can offer strong revenue growth, low competition, and early entry into destinations that are still developing their global tourism footprint. Many countries with rising GDP combine improving infrastructure, expanding travel demand, and favorable real estate prices, creating attractive conditions for short-term rental investors in 2026.
To move from opportunity to action, investors need reliable, comparable data across markets. The Airbtics Global Airbnb Investment Dataset helps identify where economic growth aligns with real Airbnb performance by providing country-level insights on revenue, occupancy, pricing, and demand trends. This allows investors to evaluate risk, compare markets, and make smarter, data-backed Airbnb investment decisions worldwide.
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