Trending Destinations in Europe for Home Swapping in 2025
Home swapping isn’t just a smart way to save on travel costs; it’s an experience that connects you with the true soul of a destination. As 2025 approaches, European travelers are not just looking for popular tourist traps – they crave authenticity, local charm, and experiences that leave a mark. Based on booking trends and community favorites, here are the ten trending destinations in Europe for home exchanging this year – and why they should be on your list.
1. Porto, Portugal Once overshadowed by Lisbon, Porto has emerged as a top pick for savvy travelers. The city is known for its striking architecture, rich wine heritage, and a riverside vibe that is hard to beat. Porto’s warm hospitality and scenic Douro Valley nearby make it ideal for longer stays. Home swappers love the abundance of stylish apartments in central neighborhoods like Cedofeita and Foz do Douro.
2. Ljubljana, Slovenia This Slovenian gem is charming, eco-friendly, and culturally rich. Ljubljana’s pedestrian-only center, baroque facades, and buzzing café culture are just the beginning. The city also offers easy access to Lake Bled, Triglav National Park, and the Adriatic coast. Home swappers appreciate the safe, walkable neighborhoods and family-friendly vibe.
3. Valencia, Spain Valencia combines history, beach, and bold futuristic architecture – all with a Mediterranean flair. Unlike Barcelona, Valencia feels more spacious and relaxed, yet equally stimulating. The Turia Gardens, City of Arts and Sciences, and a vibrant street food scene attract many, but it’s the community-oriented neighborhoods like Ruzafa that home swappers truly adore.
4. Ghent, Belgium Not as crowded as Brussels or Bruges, Ghent offers an authentic Flemish experience. Its blend of medieval charm and modern sustainability initiatives appeals to both history buffs and eco-conscious travelers. Locals are welcoming, and there’s a healthy selection of renovated townhouses perfect for families looking to stay longer.
5. Tbilisi, Georgia Technically bridging Europe and Asia, Tbilisi offers an eclectic, artsy vibe that’s gaining traction in the home-swapping world. With a low cost of living, a growing digital nomad community, and warm Georgian hospitality, Tbilisi is ideal for adventurous swappers looking for something different. The city’s old town, sulfur baths, and nearby mountain getaways add to its allure.
6. Lecce, Italy The “Florence of the South”, Lecce dazzles with its baroque beauty, artisan workshops, and southern Italian warmth. It’s still relatively undiscovered compared to Rome or Florence, making it a dream for home swappers looking for authenticity and slower-paced living. Its proximity to beaches and charming countryside villages adds extra appeal.
7. Tallinn, Estonia A digital nomad hotspot, Tallinn has maintained its medieval magic while embracing modern tech. Its compact size, fast internet, and cultural depth attract those looking to blend work and leisure. Swappers love staying in the Kalamaja district, known for its wooden houses and creative energy.
8. Split, Croatia With its mix of Roman history, Adriatic charm, and vibrant nightlife, Split continues to climb the popularity ladder. It offers great value and stunning views, especially from Marjan Hill. Home exchangers enjoy the chance to explore the Dalmatian coast while living like a local in the Diocletian Palace area.
9. Dresden, Germany Rising from its wartime past, Dresden is now a beacon of culture and resilience. Baroque architecture, green spaces, and a thriving arts scene define this Saxon city. With excellent public transport and family-friendly districts, it’s an ideal base for exploring eastern Germany.
10. Bergen, Norway The gateway to the fjords, Bergen is visually stunning and culturally rich. Its colorful wooden houses, mountainous backdrop, and proximity to nature trails make it perfect for slow, intentional travel. Home swappers looking to unplug and reconnect with nature will find Bergen irresistible – especially during the spring and summer months.
Why These Places Matter for Home Swappers What makes these destinations stand out isn’t just affordability or availability – it’s the quality of life, the ease of blending in, and the stories that wait to be discovered beyond tourist brochures. Each offers a unique lifestyle perspective, whether you’re after cobblestone strolls, mountain adventures, or café conversations that stretch into the night.
In 2025, home swapping is about more than saving money – it’s about gaining a second home wherever you go. These trending European spots promise not only a place to stay, but a place to belong.
