I took my adult children to Italy this year to celebrate my 80th birthday. We rented Villa Francesca in Monterchi a tiny walled village close to Cortona,of "Tuscan Sun" fame. Upon arriving at the Villa, the beautiful and energetic owner, Donatella, rushed out to greet us; we hugged; and I knew we were home. The beautiful 16th century "pallazzo" stood at the top of a tree lined street, complete with the ubiquitous restaurant nearby. We entered by the outsized arched front door and stepped back several centuries into an amply furnished entrance room, followed by a pretty sitting room that serviced the 2 large suites on the ground floor. Walking up the regal red carpeted staircase to the main floor, we encountered the comfortable living/dining area with 16ft.'cielings, a huge oval table, and cozy furniture around a fireplace a person could stand in. Three bedrooms are on that floor, 2 of them w/bathrooms ensuite. The large kitchen w/the white marble topped table., huge stove and all amenities led to a breakfast patio and to the piece de resistance: the walled park like garden. The LARGE garden, featured running fountains, blooming roses, a chiming bell tower, dining area and pool over looked the Tuscan hills. The view is enhanced by the vine covered wall which might have been part of the original fortress on the site. Donatella was available to cook an exquisite birthday dinner for me, as well as to help us with any travel plans or translations. Having an on site proprietor is a distinct advantage. We took daily excursions, as far north east as Gimingiano and west as Arezzo. In truth, it was hard to leave the villa and the garden with panoramic views of the famous Tuscan countryside.. Rentvillas was wonderful to work with. Aside from having a huge inventory of attractive properties, they are flexible and work with you to get the property you want., which, in my case, meant changing dates and my mind. In summary, if you want old world charm and access to the marvels of Italy at a price that is remarkably reasonable, consider Villa Francesca. PS.Did I tell you that Piero della Francesca's Madonna del Parto is within walking distance of the villa? Lynne Rohrer, happy traveler read more

I'd give Rentvillas.com minus 5 stars if I could. This California-based company is a total rip-off. In December 2019, we booked a villa in Tuscany for a week for this past September of 2020. When Covid hit we were hopeful that by September things would pass and it would be okay to travel to Italy, but of course that didn't happen. The E.U., and Italy as a part of it, prohibited travel from the U.S. in late June. We asked for a full refund as we couldn't travel. RentVillas first said that "our money was already spent" -- one of the most ridiculous comments I've ever heard in such a situation. Then they tried to offer us a voucher, which we refused, and then tried offering us just 40% of our rental fee as a refund, saying this was their cancellation policy. However, WE didn't cancel, we were prohibited from traveling to Italy. This was totally outrageous and unacceptable and contrary to their refund policy, which states: "RENTVILLAS.COM is unable to honor your booking, for reasons outside of its control, including without limitation as a result of weather or other acts of god, labor disputes, or other force majeure events, or as a result of actions taken by the owner of the property, RENTVILLAS.COM will use its best commercial efforts to locate a like property at a similar price. If we are unable to locate a substitute property acceptable to you, RENTVILLAS.COM will refund any amounts actually paid by you to RENTVILLAS.COM." Their policy says they'll refund "ANY AMOUNTS ACTUALLY PAID" not 40%. Basically, RentVillas.com was trying to perpetrate a fraud, and contrary to their own policies by keeping 60% of our money paid to them. RentVillas.com is one of the worst travel companies I've ever dealt with. I would NEVER consider using them again. They require you pay upfront and then won't even honor their own policies. We eventually got our money back after disputing the charge on our credit card, but it wasn't an easy process. Again, NEVER consider using this company. They are a total rip-off. read more

As a family we were celebrating several events in our lives: 50th anniversary, 25th anniversary and a graduation. In other words, this trip to Italy was a big deal for us. I went to the RentVillas' website (very user friendly) and browsed through the different villas ultimately choosing one. From that moment on, the RentVillas staff went to work and were extremely helpful by facilitating the rental, patiently answering my questions and putting all my anxieties to rest. They also included fantastic information about traveling abroad. Once we arrived in Italy, we followed the procedures given to us by RentVillas for our rental and it all went very smoothly. The pictures on the website were almost accurate because in person the villa was even more breathtaking. There were no surprises as far as location, amenities and the surrounding areas since everything had been described in detail on the RentVillas' website. The reviews by other guests proved to be true and helpful. The only drawback was that we had to leave the beautiful villa and come back to reality, but not before creating new wonderful family memories. Our time in Italy was a total success surpassing all our expectations. Therefore, RentVillas can give themselves a well deserved pat on the back. read more

I had a wonderful experience with Rentvillas, staying recently in a hilltop villa near Siena, Italy. The property was magnificent and the only glitch that happened during my visit--an uncooperative entry gate--was fixed immediately. Rentvillas provided a handy guide for enjoying the country, with everything from coffee etiquette (cappuccinos are for the morning only), to simple Italian phrases and how to negotiate necessities such as nearby shopping, banking and transportation. Rentvillas suggested and I took advantage of a self guided itinerary of nearby towns and villages, that contained interesting facts, touching on the major sites, but also containing hidden gems. I had a different destination each day, and enjoyed the flexibility of going at my own pace. The suggested routes were off of the main highways and I felt immersed in the Tuscan landscape. My impression from talking to the very attentive person who cared for the property, is that Rentvillas maintains a close relationship with their property owners. My villa stay was next to perfect, and I will definitely use Rentvillas again in helping me plan future adventures. read more

We were looking for a "once in a lifetime" vacation for our family, nine of us ranging from age 2 to 66. Our requirements were specific and we did a lot of searching on the web. In that activity, we found Rentvillas and contacted them among others for suggestions. They could not have been more attentive! With the help of Nicole, we started narrowing down properties until we found one that was ideal. Even after we paid the deposit, the service continued with hints and suggestions. My two adult daughters are somewhat direct in their questions and all of their queries were answered promptly and courteously. I'd like to think it doesn't matter who you talk to at Rentvillas. Right before we left the United States for Italy I thought that we had not received the rental voucher. Nicole was on holiday but I spoke with another employee and my problem was solved on the spot. The only embarrassment was that they had sent the voucher to me four months earlier and I had misplaced it. Not only would we definitely use them again, they would be the first, and hopefully only, firm we talk with. read more

Working with Rentvillas was easy and made my planning the Tuscany part of our Italy vacation very smooth. My contact in California was responsive and helpful. I had a few questions that she could easily answer about the property which I had found online. I had other questions that she said she would have to check and get back to me. She did get back immediately and was very helpful. She followed up and volunteered her services if I had any other needs or questions as the departure time approached. We received the necessary documents within a few days, which allowed me to relax and feel confident that we were in good hands. I would highly recommend Rentvillas to anyone traveling and I look forward to using their services again. I was confident that I had all the information I needed to find the villa. There were no unexpected surprises, paying via Visa was quick and easy also. All in all, Rentvillas is a great site to support any vacation destination. Rosemary read more

I took my extended family on vacation in Italy and as part of the trip rented Villa Dante( also called villa Ravello) just outside of Ravello. The Villa exceeded our expectations which were pretty high. I've been all over the world and the views from the villa were as good as any i have experienced, mountains to the left and a village and the mediteranean straight ahead. The villa had 5 bedrooms and 5 baths all kept in first class condition, decks and views off each bedroom, a large living area, eating areas both inside and out and a fully stocked kitchen. The villa was cleaned 4 hours each day as part of the rental agreement. The deposit at 1500 euros was high but it was returned to us before we departed. The location of the villa was also perfect for us. It allowed us to walk to Ravello ( town center under a mile away ) as well as other nearby towns. Ravello is a wonderful town with many good restaurants, great views and friendly people. read more

Rentvillas was wonderful! We saw an overwhelmingly beautiful picture of a villa in Positano first, then saw the Rentvillas page with all the info on it. Took about 3 days before we booked it (and that was 9 months before we went). I emailed and talked to them oh so many times before time for the trip arrived. Rentvillas was quick to respond and definitely the most pleasant and helpful people I've dealt with. Rentvillas answered all my questions no matter how weird they seemed to be. Weather, currency, best values for meals, markets for groceries, extras we should bring - they gave us good info on all of it. The only problems that occurred were small. The bus drivers weren't so friendly, the taxi's were unbelievably expensive. Small things that Rentvillas couldn't know. We were 3 newbies in Italy but with info from Rentvillas we were fearless! So much so that I've just booked 2 weeks for next spring in the same villa. read more

We have rented the same villa in Tuscany that was recommended by a friend 5 times. This year, we wanted to do something different - the Amalfi Coast. With no personal referrals, I went online and found Rentvillas.com. What an amazing find. We rented a spectacular place through the web site and the service was fantastic. Right from the start, the staff at Rentvillas answered all our questions and researched them if they didn't know the answers. Their follow up was great. They reminded me when I needed to make my payment and gave me a list of tips for the trip. I have to say, when I go to Italy, I EXPECT something to go wrong. This time, with the help of Rentvillas - nothing did. Everything was exactly as shown, every appointment was kept and every expectation met. It was great. I would absolutely use them again. I could not have been more pleased. Really. read more

I had the pleasure of renting an exquisite villa on Lago Maggiore - Villa Verbena - in July with my family. I have to say that I've rented in Italy from several agencies & this was by far my best experience. The house exceeded my expectations and the space, inside and out, worked perfectly for our group of 6 adults and 2 3-yr. olds. It was attractive, comfortable and child-friendly. The location, above the town, afforded us wonderful lake views and a pleasant temperature, since we were there during a very hot spell. The pool was a great end-of-the-day activity for both adults & children. The owners were gracious and very helpful in guiding us to child-friendly sites and the best gelateria! The whole process through RentVillas was painless and flawless - they will be my go-to agency from now on. read more

A group of 19 friends and relatives stayed at Villa Asteria 1 and 2 on the Peloponnese in Greece for two weeks. The experience was wonderful. The two houses were side by side, each with a pool and identical lay out. The houses and grounds were well maintained and the property was even lovelier than the pictures. Our property manager was extremely helpful and gave us great tips on visiting the nearby ancient sites and dramatic beaches. We made day trips to Epidaurus, Mycenae, Nauplio, and Monemvasia as well as the islands of Poros, Hydra and Spetses. Local restaurants were easy to reach and had wonderful food and wine. Our Rentvillas representative answered all our questions in advance and there were no unpleasant surprises, just delight with Greece and the friendly people of Porto Heli. read more

I can't say enough good things about RentVillas. My wife and I had traveled to Italy several times doing the planning on our own. This trip 12 of our friends were going with us and I was in charge of the planning. I found RentVillas on line and I gave them a list requirements for a villa. They found choices for us that were superb. We split our time between two villas. Both were above and beyond what we asked for. in addition to matching us to the villas, they provided additional information such as car rental, travel insurance, day trips in the area, and cell phone usage to name a few. They definitely provide one-stop shopping. The staff is excellent and continuously follow up on every question you ask. We are now planning a trip to Spain and will definitely use RentVillas. read more

We stayed at Villa Certaldo in Tuscany and booked through Rentvillas.. Sometimes selecting a place to stay this far from home, it's like blindly throwing a dart at a map and hoping you don't hit swamp. This was the jackpot. Our hostess, Elizabeth, was the nicest woman on the planet and the villa was spectacular. Decorated like something out of 'Better Homes and Gardens', this home has beautiful and convenient accommodations and ones of the most breathtaking views in all of Tuscany. Because of it's central location, we were able to travel to all our favorite destinations from there or stay and enjoy the pool and atmosphere. If your staying in Tuscany, this beautiful 3 bedroom/3bath villa is the place to be. We absolutely loved it and would return in a heartbeat! read more

A multigenerational group rented Villa Barberino, a 16th century villa near Certaldo. We loved the countryside location (surrounded by olive groves), the swimming pool, and eating dinners outside on the patio. Our best days were those spent relaxing by the pool, taking dips with the kids and gazing out at San Gimignano, whose towers are visible in the distance. We made day trips to Florence, Siena, and Lucca, as well as many quick jaunts into nearby Certaldo and Barberino val d'Elsa for groceries, gelato, and pizza, or to hit the park when the kids got antsy. There's a restaurants within walking distance called "Wilma's" that is frequented by locals--you'll quickly understand why. It's a no-nonsense affair but delivers on authentic local cuisine. Highly recommend! read more

We were very pleased with Rent Villas.com in Ventura California. Their service was very good. They had a good knowledge of the properties they were offering, they were prompt in returning phone calls & e-mails. They provided us with all of the necessary documents & information we needed upon our arrival. The property itself was as good or better than they described in the sales brochures. & more than met our expectation. I would recommend Rent Villas anytime. They have a very professional organization & the properties are really first class. We had a group of six people and everyone was happy with our villa. My wife will use them again. -- Chris Hughes New York City read more

We booked a villa in Tuscany between Florence and Siena in June, 2013 from Rentvillas.com. From beginning to end our experience was wonderful! Our agent, Sarah, could not have been more helpful answering all our questions. Rentvillas gave us terrific advise on how to "live like an Italian in Italy" with their online guide and recommendations for things to see, places to go and great restaurants. Plus many tips on travel, currency, safety and comfort. We were four, senior adults living the dream on vacation in Italy in a property that was every bit the way it was pictured and described by Rentvillas. We would and have recommended them to our friends! Sue W. read more

I recently used rentvillas.com to schedule a villa in Tuscany, Italy and was extremely happy with their professionalism, level of service and with the villa we rented. The villa, Vecchio Borga-Mensola was absolutely wonderful; excellent hosts, beautiful villa and impeccable service. Rentvillas.com was great to deal with; timely, personal communications, lots of great tips about making the most of our trip to Italy, absolutely no glitches; I couldn't have been happier with my rentvillas.com experience. They took the worry out of renting in a foreign country; I recommend them without reservation! read more

We stayed in an Italian villa, Podere della Fraternita, having booked it through Rentvillas - the first time we had used this agency. The property was exactly as advertised, the owners were wonderful, the villa was spotless and had every amenity necessary to full enjoyment. We had originally booked for seven people but two had to cancel because of health issues. Even with the weekly rent now split amongst only five people, it was still a good deal. Our Rentvillas agent, Jannah, was very helpful with the arrangements and the experience for all five of us was 100% great! read more

We used RentVillas to rent a large villa in Tuscany near Certaldo for our family. We really appreciated working with Barbara - our Travel Advisor - during the trip planning. She was patient with our questions, and offered great advice. Best of all, she helped us choose a property that would meet the needs of our large group. The experience was incredible, and one none of us will soon forget! Best of all were the days spent at home lounging by the pool enjoying the stunning views of San Gimignano in the distance. I recommend this company without reservation. read more