Short-term rentals in Sanremo: tourism boom, high returns, and infrastructure challenges
Sanremo is no longer just synonymous with the Italian Song Festival: today, the city has become one of Italy’s most sought-after short-term rental destinations. With an average stay of 3.2 days, nightly rates around €106, and an average annual occupancy of 178 days, the local real estate market is experiencing remarkable growth.
Short-term rentals: Higher returns compared to traditional leases
Short-term rentals have significantly reshaped Sanremo’s real estate sector. In addition to the surge in demand during the Festival period, Sanremo now attracts visitors year-round thanks to its mild climate and diverse cultural, sporting, and culinary events. This has led to considerably higher real estate returns compared to traditional long-term rentals, with prices during major events increasing up to 200%.
Social and economic transformation in Sanremo
The tourism boom has profoundly altered the city’s socio-economic fabric. There’s a notable rise in accommodations such as bed & breakfasts and guesthouses, as well as restaurants, bars, and specialty shops. The result is a livelier city offering increased entrepreneurial opportunities.
Contrary to common perception, most properties entering the short-term rental market were previously vacant or inherited rather than taken from traditional rental markets. This shift has allowed the revitalization of numerous unused properties, enhancing the city’s urban quality.
Growing tourism and infrastructure challenges
However, increasing tourist arrivals highlight the urgent need for infrastructure improvements. Sanremo faces challenges such as insufficient parking spaces and traffic congestion, potentially affecting residents’ quality of life. Enhancing parking facilities and transportation networks is essential to sustain tourism growth without negatively impacting the community.
Investment in infrastructure is crucial not only for Sanremo but also for creating broader economic benefits across the entire Riviera dei Fiori.
Towards sustainable development
Short-term rentals present significant opportunities for Sanremo, stimulating real estate quality upgrades and local economic investment through renovations and maintenance. To transform this growth into a lasting benefit, the city must strategically balance tourism with residents’ needs, positioning Sanremo as a model of inclusive and sustainable growth.
