Where to buy property in Italy? The best coastal regions for investment

Are you planning to open an agritourism business in Puglia, manage a vineyard in Tuscany, a seaside shop in Sardinia or simply spend happy days in a lovely house by the sea in Italy?

With its sunny climate, generous cuisine and picturesque villages, Italy has long been a favourite among those who love the Mediterranean lifestyle. But beyond its charm, the Italian peninsula offers real opportunities for real estate investment, especially along the coast. Whether for a second home, seasonal rental, professional or long-term investment, many regions combine quality of life with strong profitability potential.

So, which are the most promising regions to invest in seaside real estate in Italy?

1. Puglia: an authentic region with strong potential

Located in the southeast of Italy, the region of Puglia is increasingly attracting international buyers. With emblematic towns such as Polignano a Mare, Monopoli, Ostuni, Lecce or Gallipoli, it offers an authentic setting between crystal-clear sea and whitewashed villages.

Whether you choose the coasts of Gargano or the inland areas of Salento, the beach is always nearby (no more than 90 km away) and rarely more than an hour's drive.

With high summer rental demand, traditional architecture ideal for renovation (trulli, masserie), and an environment still largely untouched by mass tourism, this region is an excellent choice for a first investment with strong potential.

Property here remains largely affordable, with an average price of around €1,500/m² and expected seasonal rental returns ranging from 8% to 10%.

Homes and apartments in Puglia
 

2. Sicily: the right balance between charm and profitability

The largest island in the Mediterranean is captivating with its spectacular volcanic landscapes, millennia-old heritage, and unmatched quality of life.

Towns such as Taormina, Cefalù, Syracuse or Trapani combine historic charm and seaside appeal, all at still accessible prices — between €1,000 and €3,000/m². The short-term rental market is booming, particularly in tourist areas, with yields ranging from 7% to 10%.

Some municipalities even offer renovation grants through programs such as the “1-euro homes”. With a mild climate year-round and attractive investment opportunities, Sicily is a perfect destination to combine lifestyle with rental income.

Homes and apartments in Sicily
 

3. Tuscany: heritage, prestige and lifestyle

Known for its lifestyle, Tuscany attracts heritage and architecture lovers as well as demanding investors.

Along the coast, from the Maremma to the Etruscan Coast and the island of Elba, the region offers a refined living environment and draws a high-end international clientele. The average price per square metre is around €2,600, with top properties reaching up to €6,000/m² depending on the area.

Tuscany offers a wide range of real estate: apartments in historic centres like Florence, villas with panoramic views of the sea or countryside, vineyards or historic estates. Depending on the area, tourist rental yields range from 7% to 8%.

Homes and apartments in Tuscany


 

4. Liguria: property between sea and mountains

Between sea and mountains, Liguria boasts spectacular scenery, dotted with colourful villages and hidden coves.

From Portofino to the Cinque Terre, including Sanremo and Imperia, the region attracts an international clientele in search of charm and elegance. Property prices are high: €2,700/m² on average, with upper values around €7,000/m².

Tourist areas offer good rental yields (6% to 8%), and the region benefits from quick access from France and Switzerland.

Homes and apartments in Liguria


 

5. Sardinia: discreet luxury and unspoilt nature

With wild nature, turquoise waters and picturesque villages, Sardinia perfectly blends the authentic charm of its inland areas with the vibrant seaside lifestyle of its coast.

Famous for its exclusive locations such as the Costa Smeralda, the island attracts both Italian and international clients in search of peace and refinement. Prices vary significantly by location — from €1,000 to over €6,000/m² — with an average of around €2,500/m², and a particularly active luxury market.

Seasonal rental potential is high, especially in the summer peak season, with expected returns between 7% and 9%.

Homes and apartments in Sardinia

 

6. Calabria: the hidden gem of the South

Still off the main tourist circuits, Calabria is gradually emerging as one of southern Italy’s best-kept secrets.

Bordered by Caribbean-like beaches, notably in Tropea, Scilla or Soverato, this region offers spectacular landscapes. With some of the lowest prices in Italy (between €800 and €2,000/m²), the market remains accessible, even for smaller budgets.

Low tourist density currently suggests strong development potential, both for rentals and long-term value appreciation. The region is a promising bet for investors seeking a heart-stealing property at an affordable price.

 

7. How to make a good investment in Italy?

To succeed in your purchase, it remains essential to visit the places, surround yourself with trusted professionals, understand the local market's specifics and take several factors into account.

First, assess the purchase price of properties of interest. Some regions are affordable, others show clearly rising prices, and tourist areas sometimes fall into the prestige real estate market. Consider market evolution: some highly touristic regions still have more preserved and affordable areas.

Next, examine rental yield according to local tourist demand. It is also important to consider proximity to airports, highways, transportation, local attractions such as beach quality, cultural life, infrastructure presence…

Whether for a tourism project or a personal residence, it’s better to choose a location close to amenities, well-served and with health services.

From confidential Calabria to prestigious Tuscany, Italy caters to all seaside investment desires. Whether you are aiming for an affordable, high-rental potential property in Sicily, Puglia or Calabria, or an exceptional estate on the Tuscan coast, in Liguria or Sardinia, the country offers a wide range of opportunities.

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