Vacation rentals in Palo Alto

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Top-rated vacation rentals in Palo Alto

Guests agree: these stays are highly rated for location, cleanliness, and more.

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Top guest favorite
A charming guest house entrance is framed by lush greenery and paths made of red bricks. The door, adorned with a decorative pergola, features a sleek black finish. The surrounding plants create a serene environment, inviting guests to enjoy the natural beauty.
Guesthouse in Palo Alto
4.93 out of 5 average rating, 237 reviews

Downtown Palo Alto Gem! Cute, Spotless Guest House

We invite you to stay in our private, remodeled guest house. It's an easy walk to the restaurants and shops on University Avenue, in a safe and sought-after neighborhood in Downtown Palo Alto. The guest house was recently renovated and has a gorgeous bay window, air conditioning, two skylights, and a spa-like bathroom. We pride ourselves in keeping it absolutely spotless. The studio cottage is 200 square feet. It’s perfect for a single person but has a queen bed, so can accommodate a couple

Top guest favorite
A neatly designed guesthouse exterior is presented, featuring a light gray façade and a welcoming white door. The pathway is paved with stone, bordered by fresh greenery and landscaping, under a clear blue sky. A sense of tranquility is underscored by the surrounding trees.
Guesthouse in Palo Alto
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 124 reviews

Steps from Stanford - Charming Guest House

Discover your perfect retreat a block from Stanford University, tucked away on a tranquil, tree-lined street in Palo Alto. Newly constructed, single-level guesthouse offers privacy, set discreetly at the rear of our property. You'll find yourself within a leisurely stroll minutes from restaurants, grocery stores, and shops. Easy access to 101 and 280 fwys. This haven is within walking distance to Caltrain CA Ave station, as well as stops for Stanford's complimentary Marguerite Shuttle service.

Top guest favorite
Home in Palo Alto
4.89 out of 5 average rating, 532 reviews

Elite Designer Modern Suite Private Entrance/Patio

Designed by an elite interior designer, this newly renovated guest suite is equipped with modern furnishing, a 40" cable TV, wireless internet, a private entrance, and a 150 square feet private side yard only for guests' use. Included is a kitchenette with a microwave, coffee machine and fridge. Located in a prime, secure and charming North Palo Alto neighborhood; 5 min away from downtown Palo Alto, 6 mins to Four Seasons, 12 mins to Stanford, and walking distance to Starbucks and restaurants.

Top guest favorite
A charming outdoor space features a decorative stone fountain with three tiers, surrounded by lush greenery and colorful flower beds. The mansion's stucco facade and tile roof are visible in the background, complemented by a well-maintained pathway leading to the entrance.
Guest suite in Atherton
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 112 reviews

ADU studio unit in a 2/3 acre Spanish mansion

Kick back and relax in this calm, stylish beautiful mansion. An independent front ADU studio in a brand new modern Spanish style mansion in a 2/3 acre lot in Atherton with completely separate entrance and huge front yard with oak trees and fountain. Only 0.5 mile to 101 freeway and 1 mile to train station, near many high tech companies. A stylish welcoming king bed full Kitchenette large fridge large stove oven range microwave and in the unit washer dryer. Central AC and heat, internet & TV.

Top guest favorite
An outdoor pool area features a long, picturesque pool bordered by vibrant greenery. Large green pool floats rest on the water, complemented by a shaded lounge area under a white umbrella. The space showcases brick pathways and stone details of the home’s exterior.
Home in Los Altos
4.94 out of 5 average rating, 438 reviews

Luxury Silicon Valley Wellness and Work Oasis

Ideal for guests attending matches at Levi’s Stadium, business travelers, couples, and nature lovers, while staying in a quiet residential setting. Peaceful upscale exclusive use 1,500 sq ft Los Altos Hills retreat beside Rancho San Antonio Preserve. Private trail access. Fast fiber Wi-Fi, workspace, fireplace, sauna, pool table, full kitchen, plush queen bed. Year-round hot tub, BBQ patio, saline pool. Minutes to Stanford, Los Altos, Palo Alto, and major tech campuses, dining and shops.

Top guest favorite
Guest suite in Palo Alto
4.97 out of 5 average rating, 155 reviews

Studio 875, beautiful design, private & serene

Conveniently nestled in the quiet neighborhood of Barron Park in Palo Alto, in Silicon Valley. Perfect for work trips, visiting family, internships, proximity to Stanford, Rivian, xAI, Tesla. 12 min bike to Stanford campus. 5 min drive to California Avenue shops & restaurants. 3 min stroll to Bol Park & the famous Barron Park donkeys. Please note, this unit is unable to host assistance animals due to resident’s dog phobia and a sensitive elderly cat. Thank you for understanding.

Guest favorite
Home in San Mateo
4.92 out of 5 average rating, 106 reviews

SFO 10 min, Stylish Suite, Walk to Grocery

Ten minutes to SFO, a short walk to Caltrain, and one block from cafés and restaurants— this private San Mateo suite is the ideal Bay Area base for business travelers, airport transits and couples exploring the peninsula. Settle into a comfortable queen bed with room-darkening shades, pull up a dedicated workspace with 789 Mbps WiFi, and unwind with Netflix, HBO Max, Disney+, Hulu, or Amazon Prime on the smart TV. Everything is taken care of so you can focus on why you're here.

Top guest favorite
A minimalistic bedroom features a spacious bed and a desk with a lamp. Natural light floods the room through a wide window, illuminating the light wood flooring. A round mirror hangs above the desk, and a soft area rug adds warmth to the space.
Apartment in Stanford
4.92 out of 5 average rating, 197 reviews

Stanford Campus Gem

Perfect for visiting scholars, business professionals and visitors for Stanford events on campus. Features a gourmet kitchen looking out to private European garden. Easy walk to campus plus restaurants, grocery stores, cafes, farmer's market, Caltrain, etc. Public Bus and Stanford Marguerite shuttle stops are across the street. Guests find it to be an ideal location for Stanford events. Families with children over age 10 are age appropriate for hosting.

Guest favorite
Townhouse in Palo Alto
4.93 out of 5 average rating, 169 reviews

Cozy Room with "Private" Entrance, quiet neighbhd

Our charming private guest room (suite) is located on the first floor of a townhouse if you want a private, comfortable, and centrally-located place. The room has a queen-sized bed, a huge closet, and a stocked bathroom. Our self-check-in system allows for flexible check-in times anytime after 3 pm. Ideal for Stanford or downtown Palo Alto visitors, nearby grocery and convenience stores. An excellent choice for a comfortable and private stay in Palo Alto.

Guest favorite
Condo in Stanford
4.91 out of 5 average rating, 270 reviews

Perfect Location, walk to all Palo Alto venues

Very nice, remodeled 700 Sq. ft. Mid-Century Modern condominium in the heart of Palo Alto. One large bedroom, one bathroom, well stocked kitchen with all new appliances, lovely private back patio area...all this and only a 3 block walk to University Ave (fabulous restaurants & shopping), 3 minute walk to CalTrain, 10 minute walk to the Stanford Campus (or take Stanford Shuttle just 2 blocks away)! No need to drive although space for 2 cars, one undercover.

Top guest favorite
Guesthouse in Portola Valley
4.94 out of 5 average rating, 221 reviews

Woodsy Silicon Valley Cottage

Discover a laid-back side of Silicon Valley in a cozy, cedar-shake guesthouse surrounded by mature trees. Walking distance from a great network of destination hiking and biking trails. 15-30 minutes from Stanford, Sand Hill Road, and major tech companies. This 400 square foot space is on top of our garage and next to our home. There is no public transportation nearby and ride share services are available but not always reliable so you'll need a car.

Top guest favorite
Guesthouse in Woodside
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 586 reviews

Guest House in the Woods

Our guest house is located close to La Honda and Woodside in the North Santa Cruz Mountains. Located in the Redwood forest and looks down onto a beautiful creek from a lovely deck. There are many open space hiking and biking trails within a short drive, and the beach. 5 miles from Alice's Resturant. San Francisco and Santa Cruz are easily accessible. The house has vaulted ceilings and a full kitchen, and laundry.

Popular amenities for Palo Alto vacation rentals

When is the best time to visit Palo Alto?

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Frequently Asked Questions

  • What are the best places to stay in Palo Alto?

    Palo Alto has a mix of charming neighborhoods, including the tree-lined streets around Downtown and the peaceful residential areas near Stanford University. Staying near California Avenue or Professorville places you close to popular shops, restaurants, and local parks.

  • What are the best things to do in Palo Alto with kids?

    Families frequently explore the interactive exhibits at the Palo Alto Junior Museum and Zoo, play at local parks, or wander through the natural spaces of the Baylands Nature Preserve. Seasonal community events and farmers markets are also popular outings.

  • What are some of the best things to do in Palo Alto?

    Explore the lush Stanford University campus, breathe in fresh air at the Baylands Nature Preserve, or discover contemporary art at the Cantor Arts Center. Downtown Palo Alto has dining, local shops, and galleries for a relaxed outing.

  • How is the weather in Palo Alto?

    Palo Alto experiences mild, wet winters around 42–59°F (6–15°C) and dry, warm summers peaking near 77–78°F (25–26°C). Light layers work well year-round, and rain is more likely from November through March.

  • When is the best time to visit Palo Alto?

    Late spring through early fall is often recommended for comfortable temperatures and mostly dry days. Spring typically features blooming gardens, while summer has popular local events and a lively outdoor dining scene.

  • What are the best places to visit in Palo Alto?

    Stanford University, the Cantor Arts Center, and the Computer History Museum are frequently suggested stops. Nature lovers may enjoy the trails and birdwatching at Baylands Nature Preserve or the native trees at Stanford Dish.

  • What are some hiking trails in Palo Alto?

    Palo Alto has a variety of trails for different interests. You can explore Baylands Nature Preserve for wetland habitats and birdwatching, walk the Stanford Dish loop for open views and seasonal wildflowers, or head to Foothills Nature Preserve for forested paths and rolling hills.

  • What are some family activities we can do in Palo Alto?

    Families can visit local playgrounds and the Palo Alto Junior Museum and Zoo, participate in hands-on programs at the Children's Library, or enjoy nature walks at Baylands Nature Preserve. Community art workshops and outdoor movie nights are often found seasonally.

  • What are some of the best day trip ideas from Palo Alto?

    Explore the redwoods at nearby open space preserves, stroll sandy beaches along the coast, or visit neighboring cities known for museums and vibrant food scenes. Wineries and local farms in surrounding regions are often suggested for adult outings.

  • Are there any pet friendly accommodations available in Palo Alto?

    Many hosts in areas like Professorville, Midtown, and near California Avenue welcome pets. Palo Alto has several parks and walking paths where travelers and their pets can enjoy the outdoors together.

  • What are some local tips for visiting Palo Alto?

    Palo Alto has a relaxed, bike-friendly culture, so renting a bicycle can help you explore local cafes and tree-lined neighborhoods. Early mornings are quieter at open spaces like Baylands, and farmers markets are lively gathering spots for local produce and crafts.

  • What is Palo Alto known for?

    Palo Alto is known as a center of innovation and technology, with deep connections to Silicon Valley and Stanford University. The city also has green spaces, historic architecture, and a welcoming blend of independent shops and global cuisine.

  • What are the best hidden gems to explore in Palo Alto?

    Walking paths through the Arizona Garden, sometimes called the Stanford Cactus Garden, offer a quiet place to discover unique plants. The historic Gamble Garden is another inviting spot for a peaceful stroll among seasonal flowers.

  • What are the best foods to try in Palo Alto?

    Palo Alto’s food scene features California cuisine using local produce, along with a variety of Asian, Mediterranean, and Latin American flavors. Farmers markets are good places to sample fresh baked goods, seasonal fruits, and artisanal snacks.

  • What should I bring for a trip to Palo Alto?

    Light layers and comfortable walking shoes are helpful year-round, as weather can shift from cool mornings to warm afternoons. Bring a reusable water bottle, sun protection, and a light jacket for evening breezes.

  • What is the nightlife in Palo Alto like?

    Palo Alto’s nightlife has relaxed wine bars, craft cocktail lounges, and live music in intimate venues, especially around Downtown and California Avenue. Some spaces feature late-night bites or outdoor patios for casual gatherings.

  • What are the most popular events or festivals in Palo Alto?

    The Palo Alto Festival of the Arts is often recommended in late summer, bringing together artists, live music, and food vendors downtown. Local farmers markets are ongoing throughout the year, and summer months feature community celebrations and outdoor concerts.

  • Are there family friendly vacation rentals in Palo Alto?

    Many vacation rentals in Palo Alto are located in quiet, residential neighborhoods with easy access to parks and playgrounds. Hosts often provide amenities such as kitchens, laundry, and backyard spaces for families.

Quick stats about vacation rentals in Palo Alto

  • Total vacation rentals

    Explore 1,900 vacation rentals in Palo Alto

  • Verified guest reviews

    Over 72,360 verified reviews to help you choose

  • Family-friendly vacation rentals

    730 properties offer extra space & kid-friendly amenities

  • Pet-friendly vacation rentals

    Find 400 rentals that welcome pets

  • Vacation rentals with a pool

    310 properties feature pools

  • Rentals with dedicated workspaces

    1,030 properties have a dedicated workspace

  • Wi-Fi availability

    1,890 of Palo Alto vacation rentals include wi-fi access

  • Popular amenities for guests

    Guests love Gym, BBQ grill, and Laptop-friendly workspace across Palo Alto rentals

  • 4.8 Average rating

    Palo Alto stays are highly rated by guests—averaging 4.8 out of 5!

  • Nearby attractions

    Palo Alto's top spots, include Googleplex, Stanford University, and Computer History Museum

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