A Practical Guide for Property Owners: Which Option Is Right for You
Monday, August 4, 2025,
A guide to understanding the differences in the vacation rentals market
Vacation rental or tourist lease – a guide to understanding the differencesFrom the traveler’s perspective, there is almost no difference: both a vacation home and a tourist rental can be booked online, paid for in advance, and offer a self-contained stay in a private property.However, for property owners who want to rent out a house in Italy, it is essential to understand the distinction between a simple tourist lease, a business-type tourist lease, and a holiday home (Casa Vacanza, or CAV). Each of these options involves different tax and legal obligations that affect the owner's responsibilities and the services that can be offered.What is a tourist leaseA tourist lease, or short term rental for tourism purposes, is a contract under 30 days made between two individuals. It does not require registration and is not considered a business activity.Tax RegimeEarnings fall under property income. The owner can apply the flat rate tax (cedolare secca) at 21 percent or 26 percent in specific cases.It is not possible to deduct any expenses related to the activity, such as utilities, maintenance, or platform fees.What is a Business Tourist LeaseWhen the tourist lease is carried out regularly and with an organized approach, even without additional services, it becomes a business activity.There is no strict rule, but common factors include:managing more than four propertieshigh frequency and duration of staysusing staff or intermediariesIn this case, the owner must:open a VAT numberregister with the Business Registerissue invoices to guestsmeet all business and tax requirementsThe flat tax (cedolare secca) cannot be applied. Business income taxation is required.Requirements and Obligations
For the above cases the requirements and obligations are:notify the local government office (SUAP) of opening, suspension or closure register the property in the regional register (CIR)register the property in the national register (CIN)register the property in the town hall register for the city taxregister and report guest details to the police (Alloggiati Web)
submit tourism data to the regional ISTAT system
What is a Holiday Home (CAV)A holiday home (Casa Vacanza, CAV) is a non-hotel accommodation option regulated by regional laws. It is similar to a bed and breakfast or guesthouse.It can be managed:as a business, with VAT numberas a non-business activity, with lighter obligations but still regulatedRequirements and ObligationsEven if not managed as a business, a CAV must:notify the local government office (SUAP) of opening, suspension or closureregister the property in the regional register (CIR)register the property in the national register (CIN)
register the property in the town hall register for the city tax
register and report guest details to the police (Alloggiati Web)
submit tourism data to the regional ISTAT systemdisplay the official price list inside the property
Tax RegimeIncome from a CAV is not considered property income. It is treated as miscellaneous income or business income depending on the management type.The flat tax (cedolare secca) does not apply, but expenses such as utilities, staff, advertising, and maintenance are deductible.Services OfferedA CAV can provide:cleaning and linen changes during the stayextra serviceadditional services like baby-sitting, transfers, guided toursIn practice, it operates similarly to a small hotel.Main Differences Between Tourist Lease, Business Lease, and Holiday HomeFeatureTourist Lease Business Lease Holiday Home (CAV)DurationMax 30 days * Max 30 days * FlexibleManagement Private individual BusinessBusiness or privateExtra services allowed Basic cleaning only Limited, professional Full range of servicesTax regime Flat tax (21 or 26 percent)Standard business tax Miscellaneous or businessBureaucracy Full Full FullCost deductions NoYes YesWhich One to ChooseChoosing between tourist lease, business rental, or holiday home depends on:how many properties are involvedhow frequently you rent them outwhat type of guests you want to attractwhether you are willing to manage formal obligationsIf you rent occasionally and without additional services, a tourist lease is the simplest option.If you want to offer a professional and full guest experience, a holiday home setup is more appropriate.ConclusionIn today's dynamic tourism market, knowing the differences between tourist lease, business rental, and holiday home is essential.It helps you avoid penalties, manage costs efficiently, and offer a high quality stay to your guests.Thinking of renting out your home for holidays?Contact us at info@tuscanhouses.com for a personalized consultation and find out which model best suits your needs.
For the above cases the requirements and obligations are:notify the local government office (SUAP) of opening, suspension or closure register the property in the regional register (CIR)register the property in the national register (CIN)register the property in the town hall register for the city taxregister and report guest details to the police (Alloggiati Web)
submit tourism data to the regional ISTAT system
What is a Holiday Home (CAV)A holiday home (Casa Vacanza, CAV) is a non-hotel accommodation option regulated by regional laws. It is similar to a bed and breakfast or guesthouse.It can be managed:as a business, with VAT numberas a non-business activity, with lighter obligations but still regulatedRequirements and ObligationsEven if not managed as a business, a CAV must:notify the local government office (SUAP) of opening, suspension or closureregister the property in the regional register (CIR)register the property in the national register (CIN)
register the property in the town hall register for the city tax
register and report guest details to the police (Alloggiati Web)
submit tourism data to the regional ISTAT systemdisplay the official price list inside the property
Tax RegimeIncome from a CAV is not considered property income. It is treated as miscellaneous income or business income depending on the management type.The flat tax (cedolare secca) does not apply, but expenses such as utilities, staff, advertising, and maintenance are deductible.Services OfferedA CAV can provide:cleaning and linen changes during the stayextra serviceadditional services like baby-sitting, transfers, guided toursIn practice, it operates similarly to a small hotel.Main Differences Between Tourist Lease, Business Lease, and Holiday HomeFeatureTourist Lease Business Lease Holiday Home (CAV)DurationMax 30 days * Max 30 days * FlexibleManagement Private individual BusinessBusiness or privateExtra services allowed Basic cleaning only Limited, professional Full range of servicesTax regime Flat tax (21 or 26 percent)Standard business tax Miscellaneous or businessBureaucracy Full Full FullCost deductions NoYes YesWhich One to ChooseChoosing between tourist lease, business rental, or holiday home depends on:how many properties are involvedhow frequently you rent them outwhat type of guests you want to attractwhether you are willing to manage formal obligationsIf you rent occasionally and without additional services, a tourist lease is the simplest option.If you want to offer a professional and full guest experience, a holiday home setup is more appropriate.ConclusionIn today's dynamic tourism market, knowing the differences between tourist lease, business rental, and holiday home is essential.It helps you avoid penalties, manage costs efficiently, and offer a high quality stay to your guests.Thinking of renting out your home for holidays?Contact us at info@tuscanhouses.com for a personalized consultation and find out which model best suits your needs.
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Tenuta Dello Scompiglio: Art, Nature, and Cuisine in the Hills of Lucca
Sunday, July 20, 2025,
Dello Scompiglio represents an extraordinary and refreshing journey, serving as an ongoing laboratory in which art, agriculture, architecture, and nature converge within a shared and enduring vision.
Just a few minutes from the historic center of Lucca lies a place suspended between art, nature, and memory. It’s called Tenuta Dello Scompiglio, a project born from the vision of Italian-Swiss artist Cecilia Bertoni, who transformed an old country estate and its surrounding land into a space where creativity meets sustainability.Here, the landscape is not merely a backdrop: it is a central character. Every corner of the estate has been carefully restored by listening to the rhythms of nature and following a philosophy of slow, respectful regeneration. The first act of recovery was not architectural but poetic: walking, pruning, uncovering. Simple, physical gestures that marked the beginning of a new, grounded life for the estate.An immersive experience, between art and landWalking through the Tenuta Dello Scompiglio is a sensory journey. The body enters into dialogue with the landscape, with artworks scattered among the trees, and with architecture that honors and interprets the site’s history. Permanent installations and site-specific projects invite visitors to slow down, observe, and become fully present.This is not just a visit—it’s an experience to be lived with all the senses.The Cuisine of Dello Scompiglio: Seasons, Territory, ImaginationAlongside its agricultural production (wine, olive oil, vegetables, honey), the Cucina Dello Scompiglio offers seasonal and experimental dishes inspired by nature and guided by the philosophy of the place. Most ingredients are grown directly in the estate’s gardens and follow the natural cycle of the earth.Respect for the land also takes shape in sustainable practices: solar energy, rainwater recovery, wood chipping for heating, and traditional building techniques. Every choice reflects a vision of subtle and conscious luxury, where comfort meets environmental ethics.A place not to consume, but to inheritDello Scompiglio is not designed to last just one season. It is a living laboratory, an artistic and agricultural ecosystem created to speak to future generations. Far from commercial trends, it offers itself as a space to inhabit with care and intention.For those staying in Lucca who are looking to go beyond the typical tourist paths, this is a surprising and regenerative stop. Between a tasting, a walk through the installations, a concert, and a glass of wine, Dello Scompiglio is the ideal destination for anyone seeking a meaningful and authentic experience in the Tuscan countryside.Useful InformationLocation: Vorno, Capannori (LU), TuscanyWebsite: delloscompiglio.orgRestaurant: Cucina Dello Scompiglio – reservations recommendedEvents: Full cultural program available onlineLooking for a place to stay in Lucca or the surrounding hills?Discover our selection of carefully curated short-term rental homes: charming farmhouses, elegant villas, and cozy apartments immersed in the Tuscan landscape — the perfect base to explore places like Tenuta Dello Scompiglio and many other hidden gems.Browse our listings at tuscanhouses.com and start planning your Tuscan getaway.
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Experience an unforgettable night of music, style, and Tuscan charm at J.Lo’s only Italian concert
Tuesday, July 15, 2025,
Jennifer Lopez Live in Lucca – The Concert of Summer 2025
The must-see concert of summer 2025.Mark your calendar: Monday, July 21. Jennifer Lopez is coming to Lucca for the only Italian date of her Up All Night Live 2025 world tour.The setting? One of the most magical places in Tuscany: the stunning Historic Walls of Lucca, where music meets timeless beauty.If you’re looking for an unforgettable experience this summer in Tuscany, this is the moment.Why You Can’t Miss J.Lo in LuccaThe only Jennifer Lopez concert in Italy in 2025A once-in-a-lifetime performance inside Lucca’s Renaissance city wallsA venue that blends music, culture, and Tuscan charmOver 80 million records sold and more than 15 billion streams – get ready for a powerful, high-energy showWhether you're a lifelong fan or simply love world-class live music, this is the standout event of the Lucca Summer Festival 2025 – and one of the most anticipated shows in all of Italy.Where to Stay for the Jennifer Lopez Concert in LuccaPlanning to travel for the concert? Turn this special night into a full Tuscan holiday.On TuscanHouses.com, you’ll find a handpicked selection of:Beautiful villas near Lucca with private pools and gardensElegant vacation homes nestled in the Tuscan hillsHistoric apartments in Lucca’s old town – perfect for walking to the concertBrowse our curated holiday rentals in Lucca and surrounding areas.Or, if you're dreaming of something more permanent, explore our Tuscany properties for sale and turn your getaway into a new lifestyle.What to Do in Lucca Before or After the ShowMake the most of your visit with these local favorites:Enjoy a sunset walk along Lucca’s tree-lined city wallsSavor a gelato in the iconic Piazza dell’AnfiteatroSip an aperitivo at a cozy wine bar in the historic centerVisit the elegant Villa Reale di Marlia or Villa GrabauSummer in Tuscany Never Sounded So GoodFrom J.Lo’s glittering performance to Lucca’s historic charm, this is the perfect reason to visit Tuscany in summer 2025.Whether you're here for the music or the magic of the city itself, the Lucca Summer Festival 2025 promises unforgettable moments and lasting memories.Discover the full lineup and ticket info hereBook your stay now and get ready for a night of music, style, and pure emotion in one of Italy’s most beautiful cities.