How to Keep Your Vacation Home Spotless and Guest-Ready
Saturday, July 12, 2025,
Holiday Rental Cleaning Guide: The Ultimate Checklist for Hosts
Cleaning is one of the most sensitive aspects of any short-term rental.For guests, a dirty home can ruin a holiday before it even begins. For hosts, it can damage their reputation — and their business.That’s why property owners and managers should always approach deep cleaning with a structured plan. Whether you do it yourself or hire a team of professionals, keeping your holiday home spotless is essential to delivering a flawless guest experience.We’ve created this practical cleaning checklist to help you tackle every corner of your vacation rental and maintain the highest standards.General Areas & Common SpacesThere’s a big difference between a home that feels lived-in and welcoming, and one that feels neglected. Guests notice — especially the small details like:Light switchesDoor handlesCabinet knobsQuick tip: Do a walk-through after each check-out to spot anything missed.Deep Cleaning Checklist – General & Common AreasWash walls; repaint if neededClean all handles, switches, and light platesWash windowsWash or dry-clean curtains and window fabricsSteam clean upholstery and soft furnishingsReplace or refresh cushion stuffingClean fireplace ashDust shelves, artwork, décor, and ceiling fansMove furniture to vacuum behind and underneathClean or replace air filters and boiler filtersEmpty dryer lint trap and clean washing machineCheck fire extinguisher pressureReplace smoke/CO2 detector batteriesReplace clock batteriesCheck for pest issues and call exterminator if neededInspect for humidity or mold; treat immediatelyCheck door frames and fuse box; label switchesOutdoor AreasFirst impressions matter. The exterior of your home sets the tone for everything inside.Outdoor Cleaning ChecklistRemove leaves and debris from guttersPower wash wooden decks and patiosCheck for termite damage or wood rotInspect exterior paint and fillerCheck roof and drainage systemsInspect stairs, railings, and door framesTest all locksService garage doorEnsure irrigation systems are workingTrim trees and hedgesClean or replace door matsClean air conditioning unitsScrub the barbecueAdd seasonal plants or flowersCheck septic tank and rainwater drainageInspect for window draftsKitchenMany guests choose holiday rentals for the full kitchen — make sure it’s spotless and well-stocked.Kitchen Deep Cleaning ChecklistClean oven and stovetopDisinfect refrigerator and freezerEmpty pantry and clean shelvesCheck expiry dates on all goodsDeep clean cutlery drawers and utensilsReplace spices and condiments if neededClean grease from extractor hoodDisinfect garbage bins or replace if damagedWash all tiles (don’t forget grout lines!)Check for leaks under the sinkReplace dish towels, coffee filters, napkinsRefill cleaning supplies, trash bags, vacuum bagsLeave a clean mop, bucket, and broom for emergenciesBathroomsA spotless bathroom is non-negotiable for guests. Mold and damp build up easily — stay on top of it.Bathroom Deep Cleaning ChecklistReplace worn towels and bath matsWash or replace shower curtains (opt for glass where possible)Vacuum under sinks and inside cabinetsSanitize toothbrush holders and soap dishesReplace toilet brush or sanitize thoroughlyClean shower walls and groutRemove mold and reseal with silicone if neededCheck for leaksAdd an air freshenerRefill toilet paperBedroomsAfter a long day of exploring, guests want a clean and comfortable bed. Invest in quality linens and mattresses that last.Bedroom Deep Cleaning ChecklistCheck mattress, pillows, and bedding condition; replace if neededWash all bedding, including mattress and pillow protectorsUse waterproof covers and bleach-wash them between staysRotate mattresses regularlyReplace or wash duvets and bedspreads after every guestSeasonal Deep CleansIn addition to your regular cleaning routine, plan at least two deep cleans per year — ideally before peak season. This ensures your home looks (and smells) fresh, and keeps your standards high. Need Professional Advice?Keeping your holiday rental in top shape can be a lot of work — but you’re not alone.At TuscanHouses.com, we don’t just offer beautiful villas and vacation homes — we support our owners and partners with practical advice, trusted local contacts, and years of experience in short-term rental management across Tuscany.Need help or cleaning referrals in the Lucca area? Contact us today — we’re here to help you keep your property guest-ready all year round.
How to Keep Your Vacation Home Spotless and Guest-Ready: Read More
Annual Tourist Tax Declaration to the Agency of the Territory
Thursday, June 26, 2025,
Annual Tourist Tax Declaration: Deadlines, Procedure, and How We Can Help
If you own a holiday home or manage a rental property in Italy, it’s important to be aware that you are required to submit the annual tourist tax declaration (dichiarazione annuale dell’imposta di soggiorno) to the Italian Revenue Agency (Agenzia delle Entrate), even if your rental activity was limited or if you didn’t collect any tourist tax during the year.Who is required to submit the declaration?
The following parties must file the declaration:
• Managers of hospitality accommodations (hotels, agriturismi, B&Bs, guesthouses, campsites, etc.)
• Owners of holiday rentals or short-term lets
• Anyone who collects the tourist tax from guests on behalf of the local municipality
Even if you collected no tourist tax during the year, the declaration is still mandatory and must indicate zero tax collected.
Deadline and submission process
The declaration must be submitted by June 30 of the year following the reference year (e.g., by June 30, 2025, for the 2024 tax year).
The submission must be done exclusively online through the official website of the Agenzia delle Entrate (Italian Revenue Agency), using an Italian digital identity such as SPID, CIE, or CNS. Alternatively, a certified tax professional (intermediario abilitato) can file it on your behalf.
What if I am a foreign owner?
If you are a non-Italian resident and do not have access to SPID or other Italian digital credentials:
• You cannot submit the declaration directly through the government portal
• You will need to appoint a local intermediary (e.g., an Italian tax advisor or agency)
• Alternatively, we can take care of it for you: at www.tuscanhouses.com, we offer support for our international clients and can assist with filing the annual tourist tax declaration on your behalfAnnual Tourist Tax Declaration: What to Include if You Had Both Direct Bookings and Airbnb
If during the year you had direct bookings (for which you personally paid the tourist tax via F24) and bookings through Airbnb (which collected and paid the tax on your behalf), make sure to fill out your annual declaration correctly on the Agenzia delle Entrate (Italian Tax Authority) website.
1. Only include the amounts you personally paid
In the Payments section, enter:
• The total amount you paid directly to the Municipality • The number of stays/nights and rate per night, only for your direct bookings• The eventual payment references in the General Notes section2. Do not include the amounts paid by Airbnb in the “Amount paid” field
The tourist tax collected and paid by Airbnb should not be included in the “Amount paid to the Municipality” field, since you didn’t pay it directly.
But it must still be declared in the General Notes section
In the “General Notes” field, you can write something like:
"For the year 2024, part of the tourist tax was paid directly by the undersigned and part was collected and paid by Airbnb as intermediary." OR "Direct bookings: €300 paid. Bookings through Airbnb: €500 collected and paid by Airbnb."
Important note!
Do not sum the two amounts (direct + Airbnb) and enter the total in “Amount paid to the Municipality”. That field must only reflect your direct payments
Practical example
You had:
• 20 direct stays → you paid €300
• 35 Airbnb stays → Airbnb paid €500
Your declaration should include:
• €300 in the “Amount paid” field• Only the 20 direct stays in the presence fields• In the general notes, write:
"Direct bookings: €300 paid directly. Bookings through Airbnb: €500 paid by Airbnb as intermediary."Explanation of the tourist tax declaration fields Period: 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 quarterRefers to the reporting period of the declaration.Tax applied per night*The full tourist tax amount applied per night, according to the standard municipal rate.Reduced tax applied per nightThe reduced tourist tax amount applied in special cases established by the local regulations, such as for stays longer than a certain number of nights or for certain guest categories.Number of nights at standard rate*Total number of nights for which the full standard tax was applied.Example: If 2 guests stay for 3 nights and pay the full tourist tax, the number of nights at standard rate will be 6 (2 people x 3 nights = 6 nights).Number of tax-exempt nightsTotal number of nights exempt from the tourist tax because the guest belonged to an exempt category (e.g. minors under a certain age, people with disabilities, accompanying persons, police officers on duty, etc.).Number of nights with reduced rateTotal number of nights for which a reduced tourist tax rate was applied, based on the local municipality’s criteria.* Fields marked with an asterisk are mandatory.If you have any questions or need help, feel free to contact us via our website, www.tuscanhouses.com – we’ll be happy to assist you!
What happens if I don’t submit it?Failing to submit the declaration on time may result in administrative penalties, even if no tax was collected. It’s therefore essential to comply with the deadline and keep documentation of all collected and paid tourist taxes.
Need assistance?
If you need help submitting your annual tourist tax declaration or have questions about your obligations as a property owner in Italy, feel free to contact us at www.tuscanhouses.com. We are here to support both Italian and international owners with all the administrative steps related to holiday rentals.
The following parties must file the declaration:
• Managers of hospitality accommodations (hotels, agriturismi, B&Bs, guesthouses, campsites, etc.)
• Owners of holiday rentals or short-term lets
• Anyone who collects the tourist tax from guests on behalf of the local municipality
Even if you collected no tourist tax during the year, the declaration is still mandatory and must indicate zero tax collected.
Deadline and submission process
The declaration must be submitted by June 30 of the year following the reference year (e.g., by June 30, 2025, for the 2024 tax year).
The submission must be done exclusively online through the official website of the Agenzia delle Entrate (Italian Revenue Agency), using an Italian digital identity such as SPID, CIE, or CNS. Alternatively, a certified tax professional (intermediario abilitato) can file it on your behalf.
What if I am a foreign owner?
If you are a non-Italian resident and do not have access to SPID or other Italian digital credentials:
• You cannot submit the declaration directly through the government portal
• You will need to appoint a local intermediary (e.g., an Italian tax advisor or agency)
• Alternatively, we can take care of it for you: at www.tuscanhouses.com, we offer support for our international clients and can assist with filing the annual tourist tax declaration on your behalfAnnual Tourist Tax Declaration: What to Include if You Had Both Direct Bookings and Airbnb
If during the year you had direct bookings (for which you personally paid the tourist tax via F24) and bookings through Airbnb (which collected and paid the tax on your behalf), make sure to fill out your annual declaration correctly on the Agenzia delle Entrate (Italian Tax Authority) website.
1. Only include the amounts you personally paid
In the Payments section, enter:
• The total amount you paid directly to the Municipality • The number of stays/nights and rate per night, only for your direct bookings• The eventual payment references in the General Notes section2. Do not include the amounts paid by Airbnb in the “Amount paid” field
The tourist tax collected and paid by Airbnb should not be included in the “Amount paid to the Municipality” field, since you didn’t pay it directly.
But it must still be declared in the General Notes section
In the “General Notes” field, you can write something like:
"For the year 2024, part of the tourist tax was paid directly by the undersigned and part was collected and paid by Airbnb as intermediary." OR "Direct bookings: €300 paid. Bookings through Airbnb: €500 collected and paid by Airbnb."
Important note!
Do not sum the two amounts (direct + Airbnb) and enter the total in “Amount paid to the Municipality”. That field must only reflect your direct payments
Practical example
You had:
• 20 direct stays → you paid €300
• 35 Airbnb stays → Airbnb paid €500
Your declaration should include:
• €300 in the “Amount paid” field• Only the 20 direct stays in the presence fields• In the general notes, write:
"Direct bookings: €300 paid directly. Bookings through Airbnb: €500 paid by Airbnb as intermediary."Explanation of the tourist tax declaration fields Period: 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 quarterRefers to the reporting period of the declaration.Tax applied per night*The full tourist tax amount applied per night, according to the standard municipal rate.Reduced tax applied per nightThe reduced tourist tax amount applied in special cases established by the local regulations, such as for stays longer than a certain number of nights or for certain guest categories.Number of nights at standard rate*Total number of nights for which the full standard tax was applied.Example: If 2 guests stay for 3 nights and pay the full tourist tax, the number of nights at standard rate will be 6 (2 people x 3 nights = 6 nights).Number of tax-exempt nightsTotal number of nights exempt from the tourist tax because the guest belonged to an exempt category (e.g. minors under a certain age, people with disabilities, accompanying persons, police officers on duty, etc.).Number of nights with reduced rateTotal number of nights for which a reduced tourist tax rate was applied, based on the local municipality’s criteria.* Fields marked with an asterisk are mandatory.If you have any questions or need help, feel free to contact us via our website, www.tuscanhouses.com – we’ll be happy to assist you!
What happens if I don’t submit it?Failing to submit the declaration on time may result in administrative penalties, even if no tax was collected. It’s therefore essential to comply with the deadline and keep documentation of all collected and paid tourist taxes.
Need assistance?
If you need help submitting your annual tourist tax declaration or have questions about your obligations as a property owner in Italy, feel free to contact us at www.tuscanhouses.com. We are here to support both Italian and international owners with all the administrative steps related to holiday rentals.
Annual Tourist Tax Declaration to the Agency of the Territory: Read More
What is the tourist tax and how does it work?
Monday, March 17, 2025,
Everything vacation rental owners need to know about rates, collection, and compliance.
If you own a holiday home or manage a short-term rental in Tuscany, understanding how the tourist tax works is essential. Each municipality can set different rates, exemptions and seasonal rules, which makes it important for property owners to stay informed and compliant.
In this guide, you will find a clear explanation of how the tourist tax works in Italy and an updated overview of the main tourist destinations in Tuscany.
What is the tourist tax in Italy?
The tourist tax is a local levy that Italian municipalities may apply to guests staying in accommodation facilities, including holiday homes, tourist apartments and short-term rentals.
It was introduced by Legislative Decree No. 23 of 14 March 2011 and is mainly applied in tourist areas and cities of historical or cultural interest.
Each municipality can independently decide:
• whether to introduce the tax
• the amount to be charged
• how many nights it applies to
• possible exemptions
National legislation generally sets a maximum amount of €5 per person per night, although specific authorisations may apply — as in the case of Florence, which applies a higher rate as a premier global art destination.
Who has to pay the tourist tax?
The tourist tax is paid by guests, while property owners or rental managers are responsible for collecting and managing it.
Depending on local regulations, the tax is usually paid at check-in or before departure.
Property owners are typically required to:
• collect the tax from guests
• register their property on the municipal portal
• report guest stays and overnight numbers
• transfer the collected amounts within the required deadlines
Exemptions often apply to minors below a certain age, people with disabilities and accompanying persons, as well as specific professional categories.
Tourist tax rates in Tuscany (2026)
Below is a comprehensive overview of the tourist tax currently applied in the municipalities we manage, organised by province.
Municipality
Rate per person per night
Maximum number of nights
Minor exemption
Seasonal notes
— Province of Florence —
Florence
€6.00
7 nights
under 12 years
Applies all year round
— Province of Lucca —
Lucca
€3.50
3 nights
under 14 years
Applies all year round
Capannori
€2.00
3 nights
under 14 years
Applies all year round
Pescaglia
€2.00
5 nights
under 14 years
Applies all year round
Viareggio
€1.50
10 nights
under 18 years
Applies all year round
Camaiore
€1.50
7 nights
under 14 years
From 1 June to 30 September
Massarosa
€1.50
5 nights
under 18 years
Applies all year round
Forte dei Marmi
€1.50
7 nights
under 15 years
From 1 June to 15 September
Pietrasanta
€1.50
7 nights
under 14 years
From 1 June to 30 September
— Province of Pistoia —
Pistoia
€1.00
5 nights
under 14 years
Applies all year round
Serravalle Pistoiese
€1.00
5 nights
under 12 years
Applies all year round
Montecatini Terme
€1.00
7 nights
under 12 years
20% reduction in December and January
— Province of Pisa —
Pisa
€2.00
5 nights (high) / 3 (low)
under 18 years
High season Easter to November
— Province of Siena —
Siena
€2.00
4 nights
under 12 years
Applies all year round
San Gimignano
€1.50
5 nights
under 14 years
From 1 March to 31 October
— Province of Arezzo —
Cortona
€2.50
4 nights
under 12 years
50% reduction in winter months
The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or tax advice. Tourist tax rates and regulations may change at any time. Tuscanhouses accepts no responsibility for any inaccuracies or omissions. Property owners are always advised to verify current rates and rules directly with their local municipality or a qualified professional.
Special focus: the Florence city tax
As one of the world's most visited art cities, Florence applies a specific rate of €6.00 per person per night for holiday rentals, above the standard national cap.
A few key points for hosts managing properties in Florence:
• Major booking platforms such as Airbnb typically collect this tax automatically on behalf of hosts
• For direct bookings, the host is responsible for collecting the tax manually
• The tax applies for a maximum of 7 consecutive nights per stay
• Revenue is reinvested in the maintenance of the city's UNESCO World Heritage sites
How is the tourist tax managed?
In most Tuscan municipalities, the management of the tourist tax is now largely digital. Property owners must usually register their accommodation on a dedicated online platform in order to:
• access operational guidelines and local regulations
• submit guest stay declarations
• calculate the tax due
• make payments, often via the PagoPA system
Correctly managing the tourist tax is an important legal obligation and helps ensure a transparent and professional experience for guests.
Why staying updated is essential for property owners
In recent years, more and more municipalities in Tuscany have introduced or revised their tourist tax regulations. For owners of holiday homes and short-term rentals, staying informed is crucial to avoid penalties and manage bookings efficiently.
Working with a professional local agency can significantly simplify administrative tasks, pricing strategies and guest communication.
Need support with your holiday rental in Tuscany?
Managing the tourist tax is only one aspect of running a successful holiday rental.
If you own a property in Tuscany and would like professional assistance with bookings, pricing optimisation, guest services and legal compliance, Tuscanhouses can help you maximise your rental income with complete peace of mind.
Contact us for tailored advice on renting out your property in Tuscany.
In this guide, you will find a clear explanation of how the tourist tax works in Italy and an updated overview of the main tourist destinations in Tuscany.
What is the tourist tax in Italy?
The tourist tax is a local levy that Italian municipalities may apply to guests staying in accommodation facilities, including holiday homes, tourist apartments and short-term rentals.
It was introduced by Legislative Decree No. 23 of 14 March 2011 and is mainly applied in tourist areas and cities of historical or cultural interest.
Each municipality can independently decide:
• whether to introduce the tax
• the amount to be charged
• how many nights it applies to
• possible exemptions
National legislation generally sets a maximum amount of €5 per person per night, although specific authorisations may apply — as in the case of Florence, which applies a higher rate as a premier global art destination.
Who has to pay the tourist tax?
The tourist tax is paid by guests, while property owners or rental managers are responsible for collecting and managing it.
Depending on local regulations, the tax is usually paid at check-in or before departure.
Property owners are typically required to:
• collect the tax from guests
• register their property on the municipal portal
• report guest stays and overnight numbers
• transfer the collected amounts within the required deadlines
Exemptions often apply to minors below a certain age, people with disabilities and accompanying persons, as well as specific professional categories.
Tourist tax rates in Tuscany (2026)
Below is a comprehensive overview of the tourist tax currently applied in the municipalities we manage, organised by province.
Municipality
Rate per person per night
Maximum number of nights
Minor exemption
Seasonal notes
— Province of Florence —
Florence
€6.00
7 nights
under 12 years
Applies all year round
— Province of Lucca —
Lucca
€3.50
3 nights
under 14 years
Applies all year round
Capannori
€2.00
3 nights
under 14 years
Applies all year round
Pescaglia
€2.00
5 nights
under 14 years
Applies all year round
Viareggio
€1.50
10 nights
under 18 years
Applies all year round
Camaiore
€1.50
7 nights
under 14 years
From 1 June to 30 September
Massarosa
€1.50
5 nights
under 18 years
Applies all year round
Forte dei Marmi
€1.50
7 nights
under 15 years
From 1 June to 15 September
Pietrasanta
€1.50
7 nights
under 14 years
From 1 June to 30 September
— Province of Pistoia —
Pistoia
€1.00
5 nights
under 14 years
Applies all year round
Serravalle Pistoiese
€1.00
5 nights
under 12 years
Applies all year round
Montecatini Terme
€1.00
7 nights
under 12 years
20% reduction in December and January
— Province of Pisa —
Pisa
€2.00
5 nights (high) / 3 (low)
under 18 years
High season Easter to November
— Province of Siena —
Siena
€2.00
4 nights
under 12 years
Applies all year round
San Gimignano
€1.50
5 nights
under 14 years
From 1 March to 31 October
— Province of Arezzo —
Cortona
€2.50
4 nights
under 12 years
50% reduction in winter months
The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or tax advice. Tourist tax rates and regulations may change at any time. Tuscanhouses accepts no responsibility for any inaccuracies or omissions. Property owners are always advised to verify current rates and rules directly with their local municipality or a qualified professional.
Special focus: the Florence city tax
As one of the world's most visited art cities, Florence applies a specific rate of €6.00 per person per night for holiday rentals, above the standard national cap.
A few key points for hosts managing properties in Florence:
• Major booking platforms such as Airbnb typically collect this tax automatically on behalf of hosts
• For direct bookings, the host is responsible for collecting the tax manually
• The tax applies for a maximum of 7 consecutive nights per stay
• Revenue is reinvested in the maintenance of the city's UNESCO World Heritage sites
How is the tourist tax managed?
In most Tuscan municipalities, the management of the tourist tax is now largely digital. Property owners must usually register their accommodation on a dedicated online platform in order to:
• access operational guidelines and local regulations
• submit guest stay declarations
• calculate the tax due
• make payments, often via the PagoPA system
Correctly managing the tourist tax is an important legal obligation and helps ensure a transparent and professional experience for guests.
Why staying updated is essential for property owners
In recent years, more and more municipalities in Tuscany have introduced or revised their tourist tax regulations. For owners of holiday homes and short-term rentals, staying informed is crucial to avoid penalties and manage bookings efficiently.
Working with a professional local agency can significantly simplify administrative tasks, pricing strategies and guest communication.
Need support with your holiday rental in Tuscany?
Managing the tourist tax is only one aspect of running a successful holiday rental.
If you own a property in Tuscany and would like professional assistance with bookings, pricing optimisation, guest services and legal compliance, Tuscanhouses can help you maximise your rental income with complete peace of mind.
Contact us for tailored advice on renting out your property in Tuscany.