Photo by Prins Ramosa

Santa Cruz holiday lettings

We found 158 holiday rentals — enter your dates for availability
Discover a selection of 22 apartments and other holiday rentals in Santa Cruz that are perfect for your trip. Holiday rentals offer the amenities that you expect for your stay with friends, family or just your pet, such as air conditioning and cable TV. You'll be sure to find a property to rent for everyone's needs, including places that are non-smoking or accessible.

  • Peace of mind

    Our Book with Confidence Guarantee gives you 24/7 support

  • More quality time

    From booking to staying, the whole process is simple and enjoyable

  • All the privacy of home

    Enjoy full kitchens, pools, gardens and more

  • More for less

    More space, more privacy, more amenities — more value

Find the perfect holiday rental for your Santa Cruz getaway

Learn about the unique charm of Santa Cruz with a stay in a holiday home rental. This city has something for everyone. Many rental homes come with outdoor spaces, separate dining areas and full kitchens, perfect if you want to enjoy some home-cooked meals.

Activities and attractions in Santa Cruz

Do you want to find attractions to visit in the city? Venture out of your holiday home and experience everything that Santa Cruz has to offer. Here are some of the major attractions to see, all within 30 miles (48.2 km) of the city centre:

  • Portugal dos Pequenitos (1 mi / 1.6 km)
  • Biological Park of Serra da Lousa (10.6 mi / 17.1 km)
  • Termas de Luso (12.1 mi / 19.5 km)
  • O Pioneiro do Mondego (8.5 mi / 13.7 km)
  • Caves Messias Winery (11.1 mi / 17.9 km)
  • Buracas do Casmilo (12.1 mi / 19.5 km)

Exploring the natural landscape of Santa Cruz

Whether you're an adventurous traveller or just want to spend some time taking in the scenery, Santa Cruz is a great place to spend some time outside. These are a few of the area's most eye-catching natural features, all within 30 miles (48.2 km) of the city centre:

  • Jardim da Manga (0.4 mi / 0.7 km)
  • National Forest of Bussaco (11.7 mi / 18.9 km)
  • Mealhada City Park (11.7 mi / 18.8 km)
  • Serpin River Beach Park (13.1 mi / 21.1 km)
  • Senhora da Piedade River Beach (13.2 mi / 21.2 km)
  • Jardim Botanico (0.9 mi / 1.5 km)

Frequently asked questions

What is the best area to stay in Santa Cruz when booking a holiday rental?
When considering a holiday rental in Santa Cruz, Coimbra District, a fantastic area to stay is the beachfront locality itself, which offers a charming blend of coastal beauty and local culture. The neighbourhood is well-known for its stunning sandy beaches, superb for sunbathing and water sports. One of the top attractions in the area is the picturesque Santa Cruz Beach, which draws visitors with its clean sands and inviting waves, ideal for families and surfers alike.In addition to the beach, you can explore the nearby historical sites, such as the old church that provides a glimpse into the region's rich heritage. The area boasts a variety of properties, suiting different tastes and budgets, ensuring that you can find something that suits your needs.
How much does it cost to rent a holiday home in Santa Cruz?
Prices for holiday rentals in Santa Cruz vary based on factors like travel dates, length of stay, accommodation type, and location. Simply enter your trip details to explore a wide range of options—whether you're traveling solo, as a couple, with family, or in a group. Vrbo offers something for every taste and budget, from affordable rentals in Santa Cruz to more spacious homes. To get the best value, book early and take advantage of Vrbo's free rewards program.
Are there any discounts for Santa Cruz holiday house rentals?
You can find great discounts on house rentals in Santa Cruz on Vrbo, including special rates on new listings and savings for weekly or monthly stays with top amenities such as a pool or parking. There are several discounts for Last minute bookings, and Early bird bookings too. The best part is, there's no need for a discount code—just enter your travel dates and apply the discount filters to view the top rates.
Can I find long-stay holiday rentals in Santa Cruz?
A long-stay holiday rental in Santa Cruz is the best way to experience local living. Plus, you can make the most of long-stay discounts. Long-stay discounts are applied automatically when you enter your travel dates into the search tool, or you can use the "Weekly stay" and "Monthly stay" filters in your search.
Are there any Santa Cruz holiday rentals with parking?
Vrbo offers a wide selection of holiday rentals in Santa Cruz with parking available—perfect for families or travellers who value the convenience of having a car during their stay. To easily find these properties, simply enter your travel details on Vrbo and use the "Parking available" filter under the amenities section. This makes it quick and easy to browse listings that suit your needs, whether you're planning a short city break or a longer stay.
When is the best time to visit Santa Cruz for a holiday rental?
September is the most popular time to visit Santa Cruz, making it an ideal choice for holiday rentals. During this month, the summer crowds begin to thin, yet the weather remains beautifully warm, typically ranging from 15 to 28 degrees Celsius. This offers a great blend of comfortable temperatures for outdoor activities, such as sunbathing on the picturesque beaches or exploring the stunning coastal scenery that the Coimbra District has to offer.The peak season in Santa Cruz runs from July through September, when families and tourists flock to enjoy the vibrant setting and various local festivities. Visitors can indulge in a variety of water sports, relax in charming cafés, or take leisurely strolls along the waterfront promenade, all while soaking up the welcoming vibe of this coastal gem.For those seeking a more budget-friendly option, consider visiting in December. While this is considered the low season, it presents a unique opportunity to experience the tranquillity of the area, enjoy the local cuisine, and perhaps even witness the festive spirit of the holiday season without the hustle and bustle of peak tourist activities.Ultimately, the best time for your holiday rental in Santa Cruz depends on your preferences—whether you're drawn to the lively summer atmosphere or the peaceful charm of the quieter months.
How early should I book a Santa Cruz holiday rental?
Book your Santa Cruz holiday rental at least two months before you travel for the best selection of properties.* Plus, you'll typically find that the earlier you book your holiday rental, the better the price. *Based on analysis of Vrbo booking and occupancy data for 2024 stays.
What are the top attractions in Santa Cruz?
In Santa Cruz, visitors can enjoy a blend of natural beauty and historical charm. The stunning coastline features beautiful beaches, such as Praia de Santa Cruz, which is superb for sunbathing and water sports. The nearby cliffs offer breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and are ideal for scenic walks.The town's historical centre is home to quaint streets and traditional architecture, providing a lovely atmosphere for leisurely strolls. The Church of Santa Cruz, with its intricate architecture, is a great site worth visiting.For those interested in outdoor activities, the surrounding region offers various hiking trails that showcase the lush landscape of the Coimbra District, providing ample opportunities to explore the local flora and fauna.
Can I change or cancel my Santa Cruz home rental booking on Vrbo?
To find Santa Cruz holiday rentals with free cancellation, just use Vrbo's handy "Free cancellation" search filter. We get that plans can change, so it's easy to filter properties that give you flexibility. If you need to make changes to an existing booking, drop your host a message. Go to "My Trips" in your account, click "Change or Cancel" and then "Message Host". Vrbo makes it easy to book with confidence.
Why should I join Vrbo as a host?
Joining Vrbo as a host opens the door to a global community of travellers seeking unique stays, giving you the opportunity to earn income from your property on your terms. With user-friendly tools, dedicated support, and exposure on major travel sites, Vrbo makes it easy to list, manage, and succeed. Whether it's a cosy cabin or a beach house, you can turn your space into a standout destination, become a host and let Vrbo handle the heavy lifting to help you thrive. Earn a Premier Host badge by providing quick, reliable communication and consistently delivering outstanding guest experiences.
Are all fees included in the Santa Cruz holiday rental prices shown on Vrbo?
Vrbo provides upfront pricing from the moment you start your search. There are no hidden fees added during the check-out process. This allows you to compare properties with ease and plan your trip with confidence.
What is VrboCare™ and how does it work?
Vrbo's mission is to help guests relax, reconnect, and enjoy precious time together. With VrboCare™, you can have peace of mind knowing you're protected and that if something goes wrong, we will do our best to make it right as applicable. If a significant issue arises that your host can't resolve, we'll help you address it, find a similar property, or get your reservation refunded if applicable. That's our promise. If a home is significantly different than listed, we'll get you into a new space that meets your needs and makes it right, or if a host cancels before your stay, you have a dedicated support team to get you into a similar home as applicable.
What can I expect from Vrbo customer service and VrboCare™ support?
Your peace of mind is our priority. Whether you're planning your trip or have already finished your stay, VrboCare™ is here to support you every step of the way. For urgent situations, such as last-minute cancellations, booking issues, or potential fraud, Vrbo customer service is available 24/7 to support you every step of the way. Vrbo also offers support via live chat through our Help Centre, where you can find helpful resources on bookings, payments, property management, and safety, making it easy to get instant answers to many common questions.
Can I plan a group trip on Vrbo?
Vrbo's Trip Planner makes organising group trips easy and stress-free. Whether you're planning with friends or coordinating a large group, you can collaborate in one place, save and share properties, vote on favorites, and build the perfect itinerary together.

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