Picking a place to stay in a new destination can be one of the trickiest (but most fun) parts of travel planning. You’ll likely want to stay somewhere near points of interest—or at least close to public transportation. But the Airbnb map view makes this easy.
You might even already have a neighborhood in mind. If you don’t, using Airbnb’s map view will let you see what’s in the area. You definitely don’t want to end up too far out of the way.
Here’s how to use the Airbnb map search on both your computer and your smartphone.
Airbnb Map Search (Computer)
The Airbnb map view on your personal computer makes it easy to compare Airbnb listings alongside their map location.
Step 1: Navigate to the Map View
First, enter your destination and trip details in the box below:
Alternatively, just go to Airbnb.com and click on the “Location” search bar at the top of the page and type in the destination you’re headed. Let’s say you’re going to Los Angeles. (If you’re already on the road, you can also look for options nearby).
Step 2: Enter Your Travel Details
You’ll be prompted to enter the details of your trip, including your check-in and check-out dates, as well as your number of guests. These options will pop up automatically on the menu.
Hit the “Search” icon.
Step 3: Search the Map
Your search results will pop up with each listing, including its price per night. On the right side of the screen, you’ll see the map view. You can move around the map to focus on certain parts of the city, like Hollywood.
Use the + icon or the – icon to zoom around on the map, and by doing so you’ll hone in on those Airbnb listings best suited to your needs. You can also click and drag to see different properties on the list.
As you can see, on the map view you can find a number of properties for rent on or nearby Santa Monica Boulevard, or wherever else you’d like to stay in the selected map area. If you zoom out, you’ll get to view the price of any individual type of listing in the area.
Step 4: Filter the Listings
You can filter the search listings shown on the page by selecting what type of property you’re looking for, prices, cancellation flexibility, and more. These filters are located near the top of the page, and the drop-down menu automatically pops up when you click on any filter.
Step 5: View the Results
Move around the map view to see your filtered listings. As you do so, each listing will appear with photos and other details. On the bottom right of each listing, you’ll see the price.
Tip: If you’re flexible with your travel, open Airbnb in a new browser tab and search for other accommodations. It’s easier to compare across the board with more than one tab open.
Airbnb Search by Map (Smartphone)
Airbnb has an app that makes searching by map just as easy as using your PC…if not easier. It has all the same features, including the all-important list of reviews. Make sure you have the application downloaded and that you can find the icon on your home screen.
Step 1: Search For Your Destination
When you open the Airbnb application from your iPhone or Android, you’ll be able to look for your destination right at the top of the screen in the search bar.
Step 2: Search For Stays
For the sake of this exercise, let’s look for accommodations in New Orleans. Click “Find a place to stay” to look for stays in entire homes, rooms, and other accommodations. (As you can see, you can even look for month-long stays.)
Step 3: Navigate the Map View
The map view comes up automatically on the Airbnb listing page. You can use your click and drag function to view what’s in the area.
(Note: These screenshots are taken from an iPhone. This view may be different on an Android.)
Step 4: Search the Map View
Just as you’d zoom in on your phone, you can navigate the map by clicking and dragging around the map until you hit the right location. For example, if you want to be near Bourbon Street or the French Quarter, you can move around the city to find the best site close to there.
Step 5: Check Out the Listings
If you want to get a closer look at one of the accommodations on the list, simply click on its pop-up and you’ll view all the details you need.
Step 6: Change the Filters
If you want to narrow down the list of places to stay, navigate to the icon at the top right side of the screen. You can use this menu function to peruse each option and find the property of your dreams!
Final Tips
If this is your first time using Airbnb, here are some suggestions for having the best experience:
Have clear communication and interaction with your host – Message your host to discuss the details of your trip. Be clear in what time you expect to arrive and be sure to ask for information like how to check-in.
Know your rights – Read up on your rights in Airbnb’s Help Center. Although it’s rare for things to go wrong, you never know when you might find yourself in a sticky situation. It’s good to know those things beforehand.
Now, that you’ve pored over maps and drooled over your preferred types of accommodation, where in the world do you want to go? What’s on your bucket list? Let us know in the comments below!
Airbnb Map View FAQs
How do I get map view on Airbnb?
After you search for an Airbnb location and dates, the map view will appear on the right side of your screen.
Does Airbnb show exact location on map?
Hosts can choose whether Airbnb shows their exact location or an approximate location.
Does Airbnb use Google Maps?
Yes, Airbnb is integrated with Google Maps.
What map provider does Airbnb use?
Airbnb relies on Google Maps for location and mapping services.
How do I filter Airbnb by location?
When you navigate to Airbnb, search by location to filter for listings in that area.
Candice Walsh is a travel writer, blogger, and destination marketing specialist living on the North Atlantic in Newfoundland & Labrador, Canada. She has spent over 10 years traveling the world and is happiest when she's on the Mediterranean with a glass of wine in hand.
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