Engel & Völkers Licence Partner Castiglione della Pescaia > Blog > How a prestigious Tuscan house can become a boutique hotel or a luxury B&B

How a prestigious Tuscan house can become a boutique hotel or a luxury B&B

Turning a wonderful house into a boutique hotel or a charming B&B might be a great investment


Looking for an investment in Tuscany? Think about buying a wonderful house to turn it into a boutique hotel or a luxury B&B.


According to UNWTO, in 2019 Italy was the 5th most visited country in the world. Tuscany is the queen of the regions. 

Why don't considering changing your life moving to Tuscany and starting a new business? This might be a great opportunity.


Let’s find out the differences between a B&B and a boutique hotel and how to start this business in Tuscany.

How to open a Boutique Hotel in Tuscany


A boutique hotel is an exclusive place. A design-led property which distinguishes itself by offering a unique atmosphere and providing a customized service. Usually, it has up to 100 rooms, each one with a different style. This is the favorite solution of guests willing to have a special experience that can be shared on Instagram.


In general, the first steps needed to open a hotel in Italy are:

1. have an Italian VAT number;

2. register your company in the “Registro delle Imprese” (Companies Registration List)

3. subscribe to “Inail” (National Institute for Insurance against Accidents at Work) and "INPS" (National Social Welfare Institution)

4. obtain certificates of suitability from the "ASL" (Local Health Board).


Based on the context and the characteristics of the property, an interior designer will study how to make your boutique hotel unique. Moreover, to ensure the success of your new business, you will need the help of experienced staff from the hotel, restaurant and marketing sectors.

How to open a Bed & Breakfast in Tuscany


Bed & breakfast is a home away from home. In fact, these are private houses that offers some rooms or the entire property to tourists. The owners take care of the breakfast and cleaning service. Tourists like it because the atmosphere is warmer than a hotel and the prices are cheaper. 


In Italy, the rules to open a B&B vary from region to region. According to Tuscany Region, a property might become a B&B if it offers up to 6 rooms with 12 beds in the same building. In addition to accommodation, minimum services and breakfast must be provided.


Bed & breakfasts can be managed in an entrepreneurial or non-entrepreneurial form. In the first case, you can serve food and drinks. Otherwise, if you choose the non-business form you have to live in the B&B. 


To begin the bureaucratic process, you have to submit the “SCIA” (Certified Start of Activity Report) to the “SUAP” municipality office.

Why invest in a charming boutique hotel or B&B in Tuscany Maremma


Tuscany and the province of Grosseto in particular are famous for the stunning landscapes (mountains, countryside, sea), the excellent weather and the high-quality food and wine offer. In addition, this is a land rich of beautiful stone country-houses, as well as elegant historic homes decorated with frescoes and luxury finishes.


Find the perfect premium property for your business, renovate it if necessary, choose an original style and start your new life! Profits might be very high, considering that Tuscany Maremma is a very popular tourist destination. 


Are you looking for a property to turn into a boutique hotel or a charming B&B in the amazing Tuscany Maremma?

Contact the premium real estate agency Engel & Völkers Castiglione della Pescaia - Argentario. We will be happy to show you our portfolio including castles, historic houses and country-houses: all properties ready to host your real estate investment!

Contact us now
Engel & Völkers
Licence Partner Castiglione della Pescaia

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