Engel & Völkers
  • 4 min read
  • 14.11.2017

A second home in southern Europe

Good reasons for having a second home in Bella Italia or lively Spain. The warm climate, only a few days of rain each year, and fresh Mediterranean air right on your doorstep! All of this is possible in Spain and Italy. Characterised by millennia-old culture, impulsive cities and internationally renowned cuisine, these two countries are ideal if you are looking for a holiday home abroad. In this article, you can find out which regions are most popular and where to invest in a second home. You will also learn about the regulations and requirements that apply when buying property in Spain or Italy.

La Dolce Vita - a holiday home in Tuscany

Mild summer evenings on the terrace with fine Italian delicacies from the neighbouring village. What more could you ask for from a perfect second home? The northern Italian region surrounding the city of Florence is characterised by hilly landscapes and the scent of pines, cypresses and olive trees. Tuscany is all about art, wine, architecture and, in particular, good food. Four goods reasons to buy a holiday home in the Italian province. Yet Tuscany offers more than good wine and food. A 10,000 km2 forest with a nature reserve lies in the south of the region, which is where the Parco dell’Uccellina is located. Here you will find rare and remarkable flora and fauna as well as fantastic views of the nearby Mediterranean. If you prefer a day at the beach instead, go to Viareggio. Here you can swim in the clear waters of the Mediterranean (average water temperature: 23.6°C) or indulge in Italian ice cream on the picturesque promenade. Rome, the “Eternal City” and capital of Italy,  is only three hours away by car, making it a perfect day trip destination.

San Miniato, Italy

€3,500,000

  • 9 Bedrooms10 Bathrooms600 m² Living area

Santa Maria Novella, Florence, Italy

€1,650,000

  • 10 Bedrooms5 Bathrooms
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The best places in Italy

Whether beach holiday, hiking in the neighbouring national parks or an excursion to the impulsive capital of Rome. Italy offers many suitable holiday home destinations. These include Lake Maggiore, Lake Garda and the Caribbean-like island of Sardinia. There are countless beautiful places to be discovered in Italy. Investing in Italy - be it in the form of a holiday apartment in northern Italy or a charming house in Tuscany - is a worthwhile investment for the future.

Villa with large garden

Costermano sul Garda, Italy

Villa with large garden

€980,000

  • 3 Bedrooms2 Bathrooms1,600 m² Plot area
Villa with large garden
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La Vida loca - living in Barcelona

Which region matches your personal preferences and interests, where is the best climate and where can you combine beach and city living? We have the answer. Barcelona on the Spanish coast!

The Catalan city, which is only 120 kilometers south of the Pyrenees near the border with France, is situated directly on the Mediterranean, offers a city beach, and also has a vibrant nightlife with countless fiestas. Landmarks such as the Park Güell, the Sagrada de Familia or the Gothic Quarter are a ‘must see’ in Barcelona. This impulsive city is a perfect combination of recreation and adventure. If, however, you prefer nature to the hustle and bustle of the big city, explore the diverse surrounding region. Tarragona, for example, a city of arts and culture that is only about an hour’s drive away. The city was conquered by the Romans in 218 B. C. and offers many historical monuments such as the amphitheatre, the circus, the Roman Forum or the funery monument Torre dels Escipions. 17 years ago, the Archaeological Ensemble was even declared a UNESCO world heritage site.

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Discover the best places in Spain

Spain has many provinces and destinations that are ideal for investing in a holiday home or holiday apartment. Popular islands such as Tenerife, Majorca or Ibiza are sought-after hotspots. The Andalusian city of Marbella, known for luxury and exclusive residential districts, is also highly popular.

Spain, like Italy, is a perfect country for investing in a holiday home. The easy-going way of life, the weather and the excellent cuisine with its many influences in combination with European arts and culture are good reasons to live in Spain.

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