Italy: Restriction of Airbnb in historic centres

Italy is the latest European country also taking steps to limit Airbnb-style short-term rentals in popular areas.

A new law aims to limit the number of short-term rentals to 30% of the total housing stock in some areas that show signs of overtourism. As a result, hosts will be required to register their properties with local authorities so that comprehensive data is available for each area.

In addition, a minimum stay of two nights has been introduced to encourage longer visits. This will bring significant benefits to local businesses as well as to local communities.

The creation of a dedicated agency, the Foundation for the Management of the Community Housing Stock, underlines the Italian government’s commitment to actively monitor and address the challenges posed by the growth of short-term rentals in the country.

Some Italian cities, such as Florence, have taken independent action by banning new Airbnb listings in historic city centers. The aim is to decentralize short-term rentals and manage the problem of overtourism. A number of measures are being considered to combat overtourism.

Airbnb is the second most popular booking platform in Italy

According to Statista’s Consumer Insights Global survey, Airbnb is the second most popular brand for online hotel and private accommodation bookings in Italy in 2024, with around a quarter of respondents having booked accommodation through the site.

Booking.com was at the top of the ranking, with around three quarters of the sample reporting using the OTA.

The Italian cities with the most Airbnbs in June

According to Statista’s June 2024 data, Rome had the most Airbnb accommodation listings in Italy. The Italian capital had 32,243 listings, followed by Milan with 24,346 listings, Florence with 12,246, Naples with 10,760, Venice with 8,110 and Bologna with 4,785.

The highest Airbnb prices in Italy

According to the same June 2024 analysis, Florence, at €218 average price per night, ranked highest in Airbnb listings amongst the selected Italian cities.

Airbnb listings in Venice and Rome averaged €204 and €185 per night, respectively. In Milan the cost per night was €169 euros and in Naples €115.