How Italy's Recent Airbnb And Short-Term Rental Ban Will Affect Tourists

Since officially launching in 2007, Airbnb has transformed the tourism landscape — especially in destinations like Italy. Plus, with short-terms listings reporting occupancy rates of roughly 250 to 300+ nights a year in popular destinations like Rome, Venice, and Milan, the platform has made it easier for travelers to find their perfect choice of accommodation, all while offering more space and flexibility when compared to traditional hotels.

However, it's precisely due to this rapid growth that the Italian government has recently cracked down on them, joining a long list of European destinations that are banning or restricting Airbnb altogether. In Italy's case, though, they're doing so by getting rid of one of the features that made these rentals so seamless and convenient: automated check-ins. Signed into effect in November 2024, the ban now requires hosts to meet guests in person, prohibiting the use of once-popular lockboxes.

Similar to, say, Spain's most recent travel law — which dictates that travelers must share a slew of additional personal information with their accommodation — Italy's new measure is all about maintaining a better oversight of tourist stays. In the same vein, property owners in Italy are now also required to verify their guests' identities face-to-face, as well as submit guests' information to local authorities within 24 hours of arrival.

Citing public safety as the primary reason for this new regulation, the Italian Ministry of the Interior aims to prevent potential security threats by nipping free-for-all access in the bud. After all, the potential risks of unidentified travelers using rental properties — particularly people who might be linked to criminal or terrorist organizations — far outweigh the convenience of self-check-in. That said, without in-person verification, authorities argue that automated systems could easily allow properties to be occupied by people who might pose a threat, especially if their identity remains unknown to police.

And while safety and security are compelling reasons for the ban to exist, there's also another major factor behind the entire initiative: Rome's 2025 Jubilee celebrations. Declared by the Catholic Church as a Holy Year, the events are expected to bring in millions of additional visitors to the country — especially pilgrims looking for spiritual renewal and blessings. As such, it's safe to say that the change will mark a pretty significant shift in how tourists get to experience their stay in the country. That said, if you're not a fan of the big crowds that Italy draws year-round, you might want to avoid planning a trip to Italy in 2025 altogether.