Prime Investment: 10 Best Places in Italy for Expats to Buy Property in 2025
Reviewed by JamesEdition 
With 2024 drawing to a close, Italy has firmly established itself as the top destination for international buyers seeking homes on JamesEdition.
With an impressive 30% surge in buyer interest by Q3 2024, Italy’s real estate surpassed last year’s leader, Spain, both in growth pace and the total number of buyer inquiries sent.
Real estate experts interviewed by JamesEdition throughout the year cite several factors behind this growth. These include rising interest from American buyers and changes to Golden Visa programs in Spain and Portugal; anticipation for the 2026 Winter Olympics is fueling investor interest in Veneto and Trentino-South Tyrol.
We’ve analyzed demand trends to rank Italy’s most sought-after regions for international real estate buyers: key locations to watch in 2025 as their popularity continues to rise.
Maria SidelnikovaWhile the Italian real estate market is already seeing a significant influx of foreign investment, the future looks even brighter for this European property hub. Cities like Milan, Verona, and Cortina—along with other locations in the 2026 Winter Olympics area—are experiencing a surge in activity. This creates a prime investment opportunity for those planning to buy in 2024–2025.
JamesEdition Market Insights
JamesEdition’s latest ranking of the best places in Italy for foreign buyers and expats is driven by exclusive buyer data. Inquiry volumes across regions reveal the destinations capturing the most interest from potential property investors.
Our top 10 list highlights the Italian hotspots with the highest inquiry shares and strong year-over-year growth potential. Tuscany, Lombardy, and Liguria maintain their top spots from last year’s ranking, reaffirming their enduring appeal. Meanwhile, Piedmont, Veneto, and Apulia climbed higher, while Sicily and Umbria saw declines in ranking.
New this year, we’ve introduced a ‘Rising Star’—the region experiencing the fastest surge in buyer interest over the past 12 months.
Best Places in Italy to Buy Property in 2025
1. Tuscany
#1: 18% of inquiries
Median listing price: €1,040,000
Hotspots: Florence, Lucca, Pisa, Forte dei Marmi
Tuscany, with its timeless charm, stands out as yet another one of the best places to live in Italy, attracting expats, foreigners, and those seeking a refined lifestyle. The popularity of Greve in Chianti, a gastronome’s and wine lover’s paradise, are two of the preferred locations in the region. Tuscany offers a diverse lifestyle, with high-end sports such as golf, yachting, and cycling complementing the breathtaking landscapes.
The region’s picturesque villages, including Montefioralle, Panzano, and Lamole, add to its allure. The cultural richness is exemplified by UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Florence, Siena, and San Gimignano.
For those considering Tuscany for retirement or a family home, historic castles like Vertine and Staggia present unique opportunities. Tuscany’s well-preserved farmhouses and estates, like the ones offered by Marinella Coppi, epitomize the region’s blend of luxury, well-being, and a peaceful environment. Immerse yourself in the Tuscan lifestyle, surrounded by vineyards, olive groves, and historic residences. Explore the exceptional properties that capture the essence of this iconic region.
New listings in Tuscany, Italy
2. Lombardy
#2: 9% of inquiries
Median listing price:€1,070,000
Hotspots: Milan, Lake Garda, Lake Como, the Province of Brescia
Lombardy is the Italian Lake District, including renowned destinations like Bellagio and Como, which emerges as one of the best places to live in Italy for expats, offering an unparalleled lifestyle. Lake Como’s enchanting villas, such as ‘Au Pieds Dans L’eau,’ reflect the region’s desirability.
Residents enjoy a diverse lifestyle with high-end sports options like golf and tennis, facilitated by the legendary golf courses along Lake Como’s shores. Yachting enthusiasts find solace in the stunning waters of Lake Garda, while the picturesque landscapes encourage cycling and hiking.
The culinary scene, featuring exquisite Mediterranean cuisine, contributes to the region’s appeal, making it an ideal choice for those seeking the best places to live in Italy for high-quality living. Lombardy stands out not only for its natural beauty but also for catering to diverse preferences, attracting Americans, young adults, families, and retirees alike. Explore the possibilities of a lavish life by the lake, surrounded by culture, sports, and culinary delights.
New listings in Lombardy, Italy
3. Liguria
#3: 6% of inquiries
Median listing price: €920,000
Hotspots: Sanremo, Bordighera, Ospedaletti, Bussana, Santa Margherita Ligure.
Liguria, the captivating Italian Riviera, encompasses popular locations like Sanremo, Bordighera, Ospedaletti, Bussana, and Santa Margherita Ligure. Ideal for expats seeking a picturesque lifestyle, Liguria offers a blend of sports, culture, and high-end cuisine. From golf, yachting, and cycling to exquisite dining experiences, the region caters to diverse tastes.
Ligurian cuisine, renowned for more than just pesto, features delicacies like Mesciua soup, Farinata, and Focaccia di Recco IGP. The local wines, including Rossese di Dolceacqua and Cinque Terre, perfectly complement the rich seafood offerings. Genoa, a historical gem, showcases the maritime heritage, while the Riviera di Ponente boasts charming towns like Sanremo and Imperia, creating an enchanting backdrop for an exquisite lifestyle. Explore our luxury homes for sale in Liguria for a captivating living experience.
New Listings in Liguria, Italy
4. Piedmont
#4 (+1): 4% of inquiries
Median listing price:€1,070,000
Hotspots: Turin, Mongreno, Verbania, Colombaro Ferraris, Cuneo
Piedmont, encompassing regions like Turin, Mongreno, and Colombaro Ferraris, is a magnet for international investors and second-home seekers, witnessing a 50% surge in Americans exploring its properties. With a 114% spike in overall demand in 2022, Piedmont’s appeal ranges from high-net-worth individuals capitalizing on the strong dollar to those seeking adventure in traditional villages like Barolo, renowned for its grape varieties and truffles.
New Listings in Piedmont, Italy
5. Veneto
#5 (+2): 3.5% of inquiries
Median listing price: €730,000
Hotspots: Venice, Padua, Vicenza and the ski resort of the Dolomites: Padola, Cortina d’Ampezzo.
Veneto, renowned for its rich history and diverse landscapes, is a coveted region making it one of the best places to live in Italy for expats and foreigners. The lifestyle here is a harmonious blend of sports, culture, and high-quality cuisine. As the center of the upcoming Winter Olympics 2026, the region has seen a boost in its real estate market, further enhancing its appeal.
From the historic treasures of Verona, such as the Arena of Verona, to Vicenza’s Palladian architecture and Padua’s artistic richness, each city offers a unique experience. The Venetian cuisine, featuring iconic dishes like Tiramisù and Baccalà alla Vicentina, adds to the allure. For sports enthusiasts, the region provides opportunities to explore Lake Garda, the Prosecco Hills, and the Dolomites, catering to diverse preferences.
6. Apulia
#6 (+1): 3.5% of inquiries
Median listing price: €990,000
Hotspots: Ostuni, Lecce, Salve, Carovigno, Gallipoli.
Discover a haven for discerning residents in Apulia, Southern Italy, acclaimed as one of the best places to live for expats, foreigners, and English speakers. Its captivating landscape, adorned with sea caves and clifftop towns, offers an irresistible charm. Apulia beckons to those seeking an active lifestyle, providing an array of sports like golf, yachting, cycling, tennis, and hiking against a backdrop of stunning scenery.
Elevating the culinary scene, the region boasts high-end options, from savory single estate olive oil to refined gastronomy. With a focus on seaside living, cultural richness, and catering to diverse lifestyles, Apulia stands out as an ideal destination for young adults, students, families, and retirees alike. Guided by experts, the real estate market in Apulia presents diverse and affordable options, ensuring that luxury becomes a way of life in this Southern Italian gem.
7. Umbria
#7 (-3): 3% of inquiries
Median listing price: €1,260,000
Hotspots: Lago Trasimeno, Città Della Pieve, Castiglione Del Lago, Rancolfo, Passignano Sul Trasimeno
Umbria, often called the “Green Heart of Italy,” offers foreign buyers a unique blend of tranquility, culture, and investment potential. Known for its rolling hills, medieval towns, and world-class vineyards, the region attracts those seeking a slower pace of life without sacrificing access to Italy’s rich heritage. Buyers can enjoy stunning countryside views, authentic Italian cuisine, and proximity to cultural landmarks like Assisi and Perugia.
Umbria is also renowned for its wine regions. Montefalco, home to the bold and distinctive Sagrantino wine, and Orvieto, famous for its crisp white wines, stand out among its offerings. Torgiano, another celebrated area, produces Torgiano Rosso Riserva, one of Italy’s first DOCG wines.
8. Sardinia
#8 (-3): 3% of inquiries
Median listing price: €1,115,000
Hotspots: Arzachena, Porto Cervo, Porto Rotondo, Olbia, Golfo Aranci
Sardinia, with its captivating regions like Arzachena, Porto Cervo, Porto Rotondo, Olbia, and Golfo Aranci, beckons with a lifestyle of refined indulgence.
Elevate your senses with high-end sports like golf, yachting, cycling, tennis, and hiking against a backdrop of breathtaking landscapes. Beyond its scenic allure, Sardinia boasts a culinary scene that mirrors its commitment to luxury living. Residents can indulge in high-quality cuisine that showcases the region’s rich flavors and culinary artistry.
From the glamorous ambiance of Porto Cervo to the charming settings of Porto Rotondo, each locale in Sardinia offers a unique blend of sophistication and leisure, creating an ideal haven for those who savor the pleasures of an elevated lifestyle. The property market on the island is becoming a fast-growing market with more buyers looking to these stunning shorelines for their property investments.
New Listings in Sardinia, Italy
9. Sicily
#9: 3% of inquiries
Median listing price: €850,000
Hotspots: Noto, Syracuse, Ragusa, Palermo, Pantelleria
Discover the allure of Sicily, a captivating destination renowned for its rich heritage and diverse landscapes. Explore the historical gems of Siracusa, Messina, and the charming beach towns of Letojanni and Sciacca. Indulge in an exquisite lifestyle, with high-end sports such as golf, yachting, cycling, tennis, and hiking.
The region’s cuisine, influenced by Greek, Arab, and Spanish flavors, offers a tantalizing experience. Sicily stands out as one of the best places to live in Italy for expats, foreigners, English speakers, Americans, young adults, families, and retirees.
The coastal beauty of Sicily, encompassing locations like Catania and Cefalù, makes it an ideal choice for those seeking a home by the sea. Immerse yourself in Sicily’s affordable and inviting coasts, making it a top contender as the most affordable place to live in Italy.
10. Lazio
#10: 2% of inquiries
Median listing price: €1,000,000
Hotspots: Rome, Terracina, Anzio, Borgo Montenero, Frascati
Lazio, the heart of Italy, offers foreign real estate buyers a unique blend of lifestyle benefits. Renowned for its cultural heritage, with iconic landmarks like the Colosseum and Vatican City, Lazio seamlessly combines history with modern living. The region boasts Mediterranean charm, offering stunning countryside villas, vibrant urban centers, and proximity to Rome’s international hub. Buyers enjoy Italy’s world-class cuisine, picturesque landscapes, and an unparalleled quality of life. Lazio is a gateway to both cultural exploration and long-term investment potential.
Emerging Destination: Trentino-South Tyrol
Emerging destination spotlight: 6X growth in inquiries
Median listing price: €790,000
Trentino-South Tyrol has emerged as the fastest-growing region in Italy’s real estate market this year, with a remarkable increase in inquiries. Real estate experts attribute this surge to the upcoming Winter Olympics 2026, which have significantly boosted interest in properties across the Dolomiti Superski area.
While Cortina d’Ampezzo, the centerpiece of the Olympic venues and part of the Dolomiti Superski, technically belongs to the Veneto region, Trentino-South Tyrol is set to host 50% of all Olympic events, making it a focal point for both international attention and investment opportunities. The region’s stunning landscapes, world-class skiing facilities, and growing global profile position it as a key destination for high-net-worth property buyers.
New Listings in Trentino-South Tyrol
- Buying Property in Italy: Key Steps, Explained by Real Estate Professional
- Property Tax in Italy
- Top 20 First-rate International Schools in Italy
- Price Report: How Much is a House in Italy
- Unlocking Italy’s Housing Market Trends: From Wellness Villas to Multi-Generation Homes
- How Can I Buy a Property in Italy as a Foreigner
- Property Valuation in Italy: All You Need to Know
