15 Harry Potter-Inspired Airbnbs You’ll Want to Apparate to, Stat

• Sleeps: 7
• Rate: from $315/night
• Why We Love It: easy access to London and the Warner Brothers lot, custom themed furniture and decor

Lucky muggles can head to this Hogwarts oasis in Hertfordshire, a county just north of London, for a magical stay. “We were blown away by this house,” writes guest Catherine. “Unassuming on the outside (not unlike Uncle Vernon's) but fabulous on the inside. A lot of time and thought have gone into decorating, selecting furniture and collecting Harry Potter items, including a wardrobe of costumes.” The home is a ten minute drive from the Warner Brothers lot where the films were shot. Alternatively, you can take the train (a two minute walk away) and transfer to a free shuttle. You also have easy access to London, should you also be a Taylor Swift fan looking to roam Camden Market, the West End and Bond Street. Not to mention Borough Market and Leadenhall Market, which served as Diagon Alley. Inside the home, you’ll find bedrooms into which you can sort yourselves by Gryffindor, Slytherin, Hufflepuff and Ravenclaw. You can hang out in the Gryffindor Common Room, preside over your unruly traveling companions from Dumbledore’s office and cause mischief in the Chamber of Secrets bathroom. And, of course, hide away in the cupboard under the stairs.

• Sleeps: 4
• Rate: from $450/night
• Why We Love It: miniature castle, Blue Ridge mountain views, close to Asheville

Welcome to your own miniature Hogwarts, tucked in the woody oasis of Woodfin, North Carolina, ten minutes north of downtown Asheville. “We stayed at Wizards Hollow to take some Harry Potter themed engagement photos for my daughter and her fiancé, and it was PERFECT!” reports guest Tjuana. “We loved all the nods to Harry Potter with the magical atmosphere and elements of the house.” Wizards Hollow is 600 square feet of magic, with sprawling Blue Ridge mountain views, a fully equipped kitchen and pile of family-friendly games. When you’re not cozied up in the reading nook (with a Harry Potter tome, naturally), taking in views from the wraparound deck or lounging in the turret-turned loft (your own version of a cupboard up the stairs), you’ll want to explore Asheville, which is a true literature lover’s paradise. Pick up some books at the Battery Park Book Exchange or Malaprop’s Bookstore/Cafe and then head to The Omni Grove Park Inn for a meal at Edison. (You’ll be living the high life just like F. Scott Fitzgerald.) But whatever you do, I’m sure the thing Potterheads would most approve of is the Biltmore Estate library, which looks like the perfect place for wizards-in-training to study up. Accio adventure!

• Sleeps: 4
• Rate: from $183/night
• Why We Love It: caters to two fandoms, large private property, quick getaway from Manhattan

Those who are both Harry Potter and Lord of the Rings fans will find a perfect compromise in The Sorcerer’s Shire. This upstate getaway will have you wishing you could actually travel by floo powder just to get there faster. “The Sorcerer's Shire was a fun little spot in the Catskill Mountains. We enjoyed seeing the bedrooms for the first time. And the Room of Requirement was an extra laugh,” guest Sadie writes. “Thank you for adding a little bit more magic to our weekend.” When you arrive, it’ll be hard to believe the property is anything but magical, with 18 serene acres of private trails and a private lake, the nearby creek and outdoor fire pits. Inside, you’ll find two bedrooms, each dedicated to their respective fandoms with a handcrafted Deathly Hallows symbol and hand-carved Doors of Durin.

• Sleeps: 4
• Rate: from $144/night
• Why We Love It: medieval charm, located in a famous wine-making region

It’s Harry Potter en Français at this charming little medieval property in Colmar, France. Think exposed stone walls, four-poster mahogany beds, rich red drapes, leather couches, tapestries and plenty of antique gold picture frames. Basically Harry’s dorm room, if I’m not mistaken. “The place was just magical! [The host] has a great talent to create an authentic Hogwarts environment with lots of high quality details!” writes guest Vera. “You feel enchanted right away! The location so close to the old town of picturesque Colmar also helps to reinforce this impression. It was all sparkling clean and very cozy.” If you want to venture outside, I can attest that Colmar is a storybook town—in fact, it’s famed for its annual Christmas markets. But year-round, you can visit the winemaking region of Alsace-Lorraine—the town is on the Alsace Wine Route, where the local specialties are Riesling and Gewürztraminer. If you stroll the cobbled streets lined with half-timbered medieval and Renaissance buildings, I’m pretty sure you’ll find the famous Eglise Saint Martin just as imposing as Hogwarts itself. 

• Sleeps: 12
• Rate: from $154/night
• Why We Love It: close to Harry Potter World, ornate on-theme decor

Should you have a crew of Potterheads eyeing a trip to Harry Potter World in Orlando, book this Harry Potter-inspired Airbnb, stat. “Amazing decorations and very responsive and helpful hosts!” writes recent guests Stephanie. “A lot of heart and soul went into the details, making it a truly unique place to stay. Our 6-year-old was in Hogwarts heaven and the house was close to the parks, lots of restaurants, and the airport. Definitely recommend staying here if you are a Harry potter fan!” The home is ten miles away from the theme park, but walking inside, you might have the impression that you’re already there. The house has four themed bedrooms (one for each house), in addition to a dining room that’s reminiscent of the Great Hall with its imposing chandelier and floating candles. Beware lest the many portraits lining the dining and living room walls begin to move—or you disturb the suit of armor in the corner.

• Sleeps: 20
• Rate: from $219/night
• Why We Love It: community amenities, custom decor, 45 minutes from Harry Potter World

Wizards Way is ready to host up to 20 wizards-in-training on route to Hogwarts (AKA Harry Potter World). Each of the eight bedrooms is equipped with custom carved beds, special effects, ambient sounds and mood lighting that cast a spell on every guest. The home has a custom kitchen and open-concept living and dining room inspired by the Great Hall at Hogwarts. Relax in the private heated pool or challenge a fellow wizard to a game of ping pong in the astro-turfed garage. (It’s the closest you’ll come to playing quidditch…the ping pong ball is roughly the same size as the snitch, right?) Within the Champions Gate community, you’ll have access to a water park, lazy river, water slide and two golf courses. “Wonderful place to stay,” writes Gabrielle, who stayed there with her family. “Our kids really enjoyed the theme! It was very spacious with a lot of room to spread out! Good driving distance to all main attractions, grocery stores, and food!”

• Sleeps: 5
• Rate: from $130/night
• Why We Love It: cozy, fun decor, local activities, peaceful scenery

Maybe you’re searching for a Harry Potter inspired Airbnb, but don’t have your sights set on going to the theme park. Far from the eyes of curious Muggles is The Dorm Room, a tiny home filled with magical relics, books, games and movies that promise a holiday full of sorcery. “The perfect escape for any Harry Potter fan!” raved Erica, a guest from Nashville. “So cozy. So thoughtfully decorated.” The home is 30 minutes south of Chattanooga should you feel like venturing out, and you’ll find a nod to the Hogwarts Express at the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum.

• Sleeps: 3
• Rate: from $174/night
• Why We Love It: convenient location in city center, near locations that inspired the book, decor isn’t too over-the-top

In the films, Diagon Alley was shot at Borough Market in London. But, it was actually The West Bow in Edinburgh, Scotland that inspired J.K. Rowling to dream up the location in the first place. From this apartment, you can easily walk to local attractions such as Edinburgh Castle, Princes Street and The Royal Mile, among other things. You’re also located right in Old Town and the city center. The location itself has a wizarding history, with the supposed Wizard of West Bow living on this very street in the 1600s. (He was eventually accused of witchcraft.) The interior decoration of the apartment draws inspiration from the Great Hall, Hagrid’s hut, Gringotts and the Hogwarts Express, though, as many reviewers note, is not too on the nose. “Location is more than ideal. You’re right in the center of Old Town and can walk pretty much anywhere,” writes guest Amy from Indianapolis. “Overall, definitely worth the stay due to the convenient location!

• Sleeps: 2
• Rate: from $345/night
• Why We Love It: amazing host, rich local history, breakfast and light snacks provided

In the U.S., it doesn’t get witchier than Salem, Massachusetts, home of the infamous trials in the 1690s. However, the Witches Dorm is anything but scary, and rather conjures up homely scenes from the Gryffindor dorms, fire roaring in the chimney. The Alchemist’s Library is the common area where you and your traveling companions can gather for breakfast from the bar—cereal, oatmeal, coffee, snacks and tea always available and supplied by the host, whom guests rave about. “My daughter and I came to Salem for her senior fall break as a mother-daughter trip. Hope made everything so amazing!” writes guest Cora from Indiana. “We felt like we were in the Gryffindor dorms. My daughter absolutely LOVED our room! Hope was the kindest host we have ever had. If I ever come back to Salem, I will stay again!!!” The property is one mile from downtown Salem, where you can explore the Witch Museum, The House of the Seven Gables (made famous by Nathaniel Hawthorne), the Witch House and the Witch Trials Museum. 

• Sleeps: 4
• Rate: from $198/night
• Why We Love It: peaceful and scenic, easy access to town and local attractions

This castle isn’t overtly Harry Potter-themed, but the exterior and grounds make you feel transported to something out of the wizarding universe. Perfect if your traveling companions aren’t Potterheads (or vice versa). You can pretend you’re in a sorcerer’s castle; they can fantasize that they’re the queen of a manor with beautiful gardens and fishing. The castle is inhabited by the owners, with the Garden Apartment reserved for guests. In the area you’ll find miles of scenic walks and local restaurants, with Balmoral and St. Andrews a stone’s throw away. “A very nice place to stay that is something a little different,” notes guest Alexander. “The castle is not easy to get to, but it is worth it when you are there: Quiet, relaxed, with lots of trees. The rooms are super clean and well furnished. The host is very helpful and friendly. This is highly recommended for anyone looking for an adventure in a castle.”

• Sleeps: 4
• Rate: from $192/night
• Why We Love It: fun and surprising decor, close to beaches and local attractions, peaceful location in a hamlet

In Cornwall (yes, as in the Duchy of Cornwall), you’ll find The Wizards’ Cauldron, whose structure nods to Hagrid’s hut. It sits in the peaceful Cornish countryside on farmland in a hamlet still accessible to major roads. Inside, the living room replicates Hagrid’s, with other Harry Potter decor throughout—including several recognizable portraits from the films, dragon’s egg nested in a cauldron and clippings from The Daily Prophet. “From the moment you arrive at the location you are absolutely captivated by your surroundings; no piece of detail is left untouched and truly is a Harry Potter themed stay throughout!” writes guest Tyler. “The bedroom is comfortable and cozy with little Easter eggs hidden everywhere…make sure you find the wands for the ‘magical’ candles! So many magical moments, can’t wait to share our experiences with loved ones.” Cornwall is one of the United Kingdom’s westernmost points, with access to many beaches and attractions, including The Lost Gardens of Heligan, Tintagel Castle and Saint Michael’s Mount.

• Sleeps: 5
• Rate: from $254/night
• Why We Love It: perfect five-star rating, recently renovated, close to Harry Potter theme park

This stunning converted chapel in Hertfordshire has a perfect star rating, making it, possibly the ultimate Harry Potter inspired Airbnb. “This is an ABSOLUTE stay whether you are into Harry Potter or just looking for a cool place to stay! First class all the way!,” raved Danielle from Las Vegas. “The best Airbnb we have ever done. Access to the city center on foot is very easy,” adds fellow traveler Robin. “Access to the train station in less than ten minutes on foot. The Harry Potter studio park is very close either by shuttle or by car.” The newly renovated property retains its charm and character, with plenty of stained glass, exposed wood and brick, plus comfortable furnishings and a contemporary kitchen.

• Sleeps: 2
• Rate: from $217/night
• Why We Love It: portrayed Harry’s house in the movies, stellar host

If the De Vere House looks familiar, that’s because it served as James and Lily Potter’s house in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, while neighboring streets in Lavenham were used as backdrop for Godric’s Hollow. But aside from the movie tie-in, the decor is tame, evoking only cozy English countryside vibes. The host, Jane, provides dressing gowns and toiletries on arrival and serves breakfast (vegetarian and traditional English) until 11 a.m. Relax in the pretty courtyard garden or head into the village to see the other timbered cottages and 15th-century church of St. Peter and St. Paul. “We will never forget our stay at the De Vere House, a must for any history buffs or Harry Potter fans, or for people who want to visit beautiful Lavenham,” writes guest Christopher. “De Vere House itself is an outstanding architectural gem; staying in it is like stepping back in time, with all the modern comforts and facilities. The highlight of our stay has to be meeting the owner Jane, such a lovely lady and an incredible cook; her breakfast was delicious.”

• Sleeps: 10
• Rate: from $167/night
• Why We Love It: great host, excellent themed decor, fun activities on-site

The Harry Potter House at Regal Palms won’t disappoint. Take it from recent guests Sarah of Florida: “From the moment we booked to the moment we walked in, we knew we made the right decision to stay here. The host was proactive and had a lot of add-ons to make the trip easier and more relaxing. The [house] is located in a great community. Most importantly, the decor was spot on. The attention to detail was amazing and elevated our trip to Universal. We could not be happier with the house or the host.” Inside, you’ll discover four themed bedrooms, each with their own fireplace, TV, bathrobes and decor. The common areas and kitchen are designed to pay homage to The Leaky Cauldron, while the staircase features Dumbledore’s paintings and cameos from the likes of Dobby, the Sorting Hat and Tri-Wizard Tournament egg. Within the resort community, guests have access to a pool, lazy river, water slide, playgrounds, hot tub, restaurant and tiki bar—if spending the whole day at Harry Potter World doesn’t wipe you out.

• Sleeps: 7
• Rate: from $209/night
• Why We Love It: immersive decor, retro arcade, close to Harry Potter World

Looking for a truly immersive Harry Potter-inspired Airbnb? Look no further. “This place is absolutely magical! Every inch of this place screams Harry Potter!” writes guest L.J. from Tampa. “We were so impressed by the attention to detail here! This is not just an apartment with a few Harry Potter items. As soon as you walk in you feel like you are immersed in the book. On top of the awesome decor/atmosphere it was also super clean! I am VERY picky about places being clean and I have nothing but good things to say about our stay here. If you are a Harry Potter fan (and even if you aren't) this place is such a cool experience!!!!” When you walk through the door, you’re immediately greeted by moving portraits and the Gryffindor common room which is, naturally, stocked with the entire film series. There’s also a fully-equipped kitchen and a “house elf” apron, which you can delegate to the most curmudgeonly of your party. And the cherry on top is the Forbidden Forest, otherwise known as the arcade, where you’ll find retro arcade machines.