Think of Davao City as Manila’s cleaner and more orderly sibling. Need proof? It has the second-lowest crime rate in Southeast Asia and is a ‘Clean Air City’. On top of this, Davao City is a coastal metropolis surrounded by gorgeous hilly mountains, just a boat trip from Samal Island. What’s not to love?
I clearly remember my first day here – the colourful Kadayawan Festival, the exquisite beaches, and, don’t get me started on the value for money… You could live large here for a quarter of the price you could elsewhere, and renting an Airbnb in Davao City is the best way to do so.
From local homestays and hostels to the types of resorts where walking around in a robe and slippers is acceptable – there are loads of places to stay. While these are all great options, if you’re after a more private experience, finding one of the best rentals in Davao City is the way to go.
The convenience of having your own kitchen, living space, and home-like amenities is unmatched. If this sparks your interest, you’re in the right place.
Follow on for fifteen of the top Airbnbs in this Filipino city…
Photo: @danielle_wyatt
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Quick Answer: These Are the Top 5 Airbnbs in Davao City
Stylish One Bed Apartment with Gym Access
- > $$$
- > 2 Guests
- > Free on-site parking
- > Scandinavian wooden interiors
Digital Nomads Room
- > $
- > 2 Guests
- > Shared dorms and private suites available
- > Walking distance from Abreeza Mall
Contemporary Six-Bedroom Home with High Ceilings
- > $$$$
- > 15 Guests
- > Two balconies with city views
- > Double-height ceilings
Minimalist Tiny Home with Outdoor Bath Tub
- > $$
- > 2 Guests
- > Outdoor bathtub and backyard
- > Minimalist eco-container home
Mesatierra Condo
- > $$
- > 2 Guests
- > Access to a shared kitchen
- > Office desk
What to Expect from Airbnbs in Davao City
Backpacking in the Philippines is a traveller’s DREAM – the beaches are lush, the mountains are majestic and the cities are thriving! Finding an Airbnb can be easier in more built-up areas such as Davao City.
The first thing you should know about Airbnbs in Davao City is that there isn’t too much variety between them. Most of the properties on this list are condos, studios, or apartments, with the odd townhouse thrown in the mix. They are typically located in central parts of the city and offer similar amenities. In fact, many are even located within the same building and decorated with a similar aesthetic.
Doppelganger interiors aside, there are still ways to find unique properties in Davao City. Most of these apartments have been recently refurnished with modern interiors, usually inspired by Scandinavian minimalism or French-Parisien style. Neutral colour palettes, sleek furniture, and functional layouts are to be expected.
Photo: Bernadetth
Most Airbnbs are found in high-rise buildings. And you know what that means – epic views of the cityscape and surrounding mountains. When it comes to amenities, most of these places to stay in the Philippines include free Wi-Fi, air-conditioning (which is an absolute MUST in this neck of the woods), and fully equipped kitchens.
Some apartments even include amenities you might otherwise only find in a hotel, from rooftop pool decks to gyms and parking garages. On that note, the bulk of these apartments do charge a nominal fee to use a pool or gym, while some include free access as part of the package.
Budget backpackers, rejoice! Budget-friendly options are also available and will typically be just as luxurious, only without certain indulgent amenities like laundry facilities and daily housekeeping.
Despite the limited variety of Airbnbs in Davao City, these self-catering accommodations provide a great base for exploring the city, all while offering the comforts of home at a more affordable rate than a hotel room.
Whilst the city itself isn’t a scuba paradise, it’s a short ferry ride away from the diving spot of Camiguin.
The 15 Top Airbnbs in Davao City
With all this in mind, why don’t you take a look through this extensive list of the best Davao City rentals and pick the property that most suits your budget, travel plans, and style…
Stylish One Bed Apartment with Gym Access | Overall Best Value Airbnb in Davao City
Once you scroll through this listing, I’m sure you’ll agree that this is a rare Airbnb find. It’s been beautifully refurbished with wooden floors, ambient lighting, and stylish built-in cabinetry and is on the market for a reasonable price for what you get in return.
After a sweet night’s rest in the comfy queen bed, prepare yourself a gourmet homecooked meal before hitting the gym and pool… and you can do all of this without even leaving the building. The location couldn’t be better. It’s close to the city centre yet far enough out not to have that claustrophobic city vibe.
Digital Nomads Room | Best Budget Airbnb in Davao City
Davao City is a conveniently affordable place to visit, with plenty of budget accommodation options on the market. If you’re looking for one of the cheapest places to stay in Davao City, you can rent a room in a shared space alongside Kerstin and her lovely cat.
Unlike hostels in the Philippines, staying in a private room where you get space to yourself whilst being able to use the fully equipped kitchen and outdoor spaces and interact with a local.
This room also offers a great space to work from if you’re a digital nomad and all at a great price that will make it easy to stay within budget.
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View on Osprey View on REIContemporary Six-Bedroom Home with High Ceilings | Over-The-Top Luxury Airbnb in Davao City
Within minutes of arriving in this modern family home, I knew it would be a luxurious experience. It’s large, with six bedrooms across three stories and feels super spacious because of the double-height ceilings and glass walls. Natural light streams into the central living area, with a fully equipped kitchen and a dining table suitable for eight guests.
It is worth noting that this home is a bit out of the centre, in a residential neighbourhood north of the city. It’s close to the airport but not within the jet zone, which means no loud noises. Oh, and the owners even offer a FREE airport pick-up and drop-off service. Score!
Minimalist Tiny Home with Outdoor Bath Tub | Perfect Davao City Airbnb for Solo Travellers
If you’re a solo traveller looking for the best Davao City Airbnb to unwind and recharge without spending too much, this tiny home might be your perfect match. It’s small and affordable, yet has all the necessities for a short stay.
The interior is decorated with a wooden aesthetic and moody, warm lighting. But you’ll want to spend most of your time on the outdoor patio, which is landscaped with zen-inspired stones and wooden walls around a freestanding tub. If you’re solo travelling in the Philippines, you’ll love this pad!
Mesatierra Condo | Perfect Short-Term Airbnb in Davao City for Digital Nomads
Good Wi-Fi connection, a well-lit and quiet office desk, and a kitchen with everything you might need to prepare a homecooked meal— rocking the digital nomad lifestyle in Davao City has never looked so good.
This private suite is set within a well-equipped apartment block. The space allows for a peaceful environment for working as well as a pool and gym for relaxing and recuperating the mind and body once your work day has finished.
Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.
It looks exactly like a normal belt except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)
Hide Yo’ Money!More Epic Airbnbs in Davao City
Five options not enough? I hear ya – here are a few more of my favourite Airbnbs in Davao City!
Modern Dual-Story Apartment with Glitzy Lighting
Some Airbnbs are so beautiful that it’s difficult to get out of bed in the morning. Well, this is one of them. But it’s not even the comfortable bedroom that grabs my attention. Instead, it’s the glitzy living space, featuring geometric wallpaper, glass, and golden accents to give it a glamorous look.
Aesthetics aside, this one-bed condo has fast Wi-Fi, a Smart TV, and complimentary coffee and tea. After a day exploring the restaurants, bars, and shops within walking distance of the apartment, feel free to cool off in the shared pool for a small fee.
Private Two-Bed Home with Front Yard and Garage
You know what they say about easy living—it’s all about finding the perfect place to rest your head. To me, this means booking an Airbnb that feels like home, and this two-bedroom townhouse is one of those spots.
Full disclosure: this spot is very close to the airport. This means that it’s both convenient for travellers in transit and that you can expect some jet noise. But for the low price per night and amenities on offer, you really can’t complain about this great value Davao City Airbnb!
Minimalistic Studio in the Heart of Davao City
This Scandinavian-inspired apartment is located in a new block that quite literally brushes shoulders with the most famous mall in Davao City. It’s also close to the main highway, so you won’t be far from any main attractions.
The wooden panelled walls, stunning lighting, and stylish decorations drew me to this property, which is one of the best for those travelling as a couple or solo travellers. You can even access the rooftop pool for a one-time fee, as well as the on-site gym (depending on how long you stay).
Bright and Spacious Two-Bedroom Condo in the City Centre
This two-bedroom condo reminds me a lot of a luxury hotel. It has a shared swimming pool, professionally designed interiors, and is gated within a security complex. On the topic of safety, the full-time security presence is a godsend for those with kids or travelling with expensive equipment.
The room is small yet has everything you could need for a quick stay. Craving a cup of coffee? You’ve got it. Looking to cool off from the humidity? The pool should do the trick. Kids got the zoomies? The children’s playroom might be a quick fix at this family-friendly Airbnb in Davao City.
Long-Term Friendly One-Bed Apartment
If you’re considering spending an extended period of time in Davao City, you’re going to want to check out this long-term-friendly Airbnb. The one-bedroom apartment has been built with high-end materials and is designed for convenient living. There are always plug points where you need them, the minimalistic interiors make it easy to keep clean, and there is plenty of storage space to stash your belongings.
It’s located in the iconic Inspiria Condo block, which is within walking distance of the Abreeza Mall and all the restaurants and shops you might have on your hit list.
Elegant Corner Apartment with 180 Degree City Views
You know those places that make you feel right at home from the moment you check in? This is one of those Airbnbs. Towering over the city on the 17th floor, this corner apartment has floor-to-ceiling windows that offer 180-degree views of the city skyline.
While the apartment technically has one bedroom, the hosts have put a full queen-sized bed in the living room, so it feels like it has two bedrooms. I’m a big fan of the lighting in this spot, which, when dark, perfectly illuminates the space without hindering views of the sparkling city lights beyond the window.
Glamourous Parisien-Inspired Studio with City Views
If you’re looking for a combination of style, value, location, and amenities, you’ve come to the right place. Designed with a Parisien palace bedroom in mind, this luxurious Airbnb in Davao features marble floors, renaissance art, gold mirrors, and crystal chandeliers for a little bit of added glam.
The bed is as comfortable as beds get, with opulent linen and moody lighting that will put even the lightest sleepers into a deep slumber. It’s optimal for two guests, but if you’re travelling as a family – kids can be accommodated on the sleeper couch if need be.
Inviting One-Bed Condo with Balcony and Sofa Bed
This Airbnb might not be right in the city’s centre, but I highly recommend it as an affordable option close to the airport. It’s ideal for two guests but is actually designed to accommodate up to five people with a pull-out bed, foam mattress, and sofa bed (heads up: it’s not huge. I advise fitting in no more than three for a comfortable experience).
My favourite part of this apartment is the narrow balcony. Sure, it might be small, but it’s an epic place to enjoy your morning coffee as you listen to the tropical birds start their day.
Homey Three-Bed Duplex with Welcome-Box
I can’t speak for everyone (or maybe I can), but there are few things better than finding an affordable private house rental in the heart of a city. As one of the best Airbnbs in Davao City, the duplex sleeps six guests across three bedrooms and is one of the few properties in the area with a kitchen big enough for family-style cooking.
The living area is just as impressive, with comfortable couches, a separate workspace, and even a small garden with a water feature. If you’re lucky, you might even be provided with a generous welcome pack, including toiletries, snacks, and other travel essentials!
Four-Bed Townhouse with Children’s Play Area
Travelling with children can be a hack, to say the least. So, why not book this Airbnb with an enclosed jungle gym and play area? Coral Park is one of the few places in this city that offer affordable townhouses within a gated complex.
This particular rental is very simple, with just the basics and minimal decorations. It has an off-street parking space and options for between four and fourteen guests. Since it is just a five-minute drive from the airport, I rate it as a great option for groups transiting through the city.
FAQs About Airbnbs in Davao City
Yo, I know you got questions ready to fire right at me, well, hold those horses there partner because I’ve already got you covered.
What to Pack for Davao City
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for an Airbnb stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Don’t Forget Your Davao City Travel Insurance
Unfortunately, things can go wrong when you least expect it. This is why good travel insurance is essential before you head on your trip to Davao City.
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
Final Thoughts on the Best Airbnbs in Davao City
And that concludes our list of the best Airbnbs in Davao City. This coastal urban city might not have the widest variety of Airbnbs, but it sure does offer high-quality stays. From modern city-centre apartments to some family-friendly townhouses, every Airbnb on this list is conveniently configured to maximize space and designed with professional interiors.
Welcoming hosts are often armed with insider tips and recommendations about the city, giving you the chance to explore the vibrant night markets and coastal seaside before returning to your comfortable Airbnb at the end of the day.
So, if you’re on your way to the stunning region, be sure to check out all the options for homey and affordable Airbnbs in Davao City.
Photo: Bernadetth
- Check out our Backpacking Philippines guide for in-depth info for your trip.
- Use our Where to Stay in Philippines guide to plan your adventure.
- That will of course include many of the stunning National Parks of Philippines.
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