Many people dream of living in Italy, and Rome in particular holds a unique magnetism. Beyond its ancient ruins, piazzas, and fountains, the city is also a culinary capital. Visitors can find excellent gastronomic options representing every Italian region, as well as international cuisine.
Roman food, however, stands out for its richness and tradition. Each region of Italy believes it offers “the best in the world” when it comes to its specialties, and in Rome, the undisputed star is pasta alla carbonara.
When planning a trip to the Eternal City, travelers often prioritize three essentials: flights, accommodation, and—equally important—restaurants. Many visitors begin researching dining options long before they arrive, ensuring that their culinary experiences match the high expectations associated with Italy.
Romans, and Italians in general, are known for their refined palates. Choosing where to eat is never a casual decision; instead, it often involves reviewing recommendations and selecting the most highly rated venues. The motivation is clear: the dining experience is considered as important as the sights themselves.
The key to Roman cuisine lies in the ingredients. Even the simplest trattoria or corner café delivers quality dishes, thanks to the freshness of local produce, artisanal pasta, and a commitment to tradition. Eating well in Rome does not necessarily mean spending a fortune—authentic flavors can be enjoyed at every price point.
For this reason, joining an expert food tour Rome is a highly recommended way to explore the city’s culinary culture. Such tours allow visitors to experience the essence of Roman cooking, from street food favorites to timeless classics, while also discovering the hidden gems that make the city’s dining scene so remarkable.
Buying a home in Italy: What to know
Of course, falling in love with Rome’s food and lifestyle often leads to a bigger dream: buying a home here. Yet between taxes, bureaucracy, and language barriers, it’s not always an easy path for foreigners. Here’s a concise guide for anyone considering taking the leap.
Requirements for foreign buyers
Foreign citizens must meet specific requirements to purchase property in Italy:
- Residence permit: If you live in Italy, you need a residence permit, as do your family members.
- Non-resident foreigners: If you don’t live in Italy, your home country must have a treaty with Italy that allows for reciprocity—meaning Italians can buy property in your country as well. This can be checked through the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs website.
- EU citizens and stateless residents: If you are from the EU, or have been legally resident in Italy for more than three years, you can freely purchase property without restrictions.
- Tax code: All buyers need an Italian tax code (codice fiscale).
- Passport: Necessary to travel to Italy, though technically purchases can be finalized remotely with a virtual visit.
- Bank account: Required for transferring funds and paying taxes and fees.
The three stages of buying
Buying property in Italy typically involves three legal steps:
- Purchase proposal: A binding offer that specifies the details of the parties, the property, and the agreed price.
- Preliminary contract: Once the offer is accepted, this written agreement is signed, usually with a deposit paid.
- Final deed of sale: Executed by a notary, this document is officially registered and confirms the transfer of ownership.
Common challenges for foreign buyers
Buying in Italy can present unique difficulties:
- Language barriers: If you don’t speak Italian, the notary must be informed, and an interpreter must be present. The deed must also be officially translated.
- Absence of the buyer: If you can’t be in Italy during the process, the purchase can be executed through a power of attorney, allowing a legal representative to act on your behalf.
Taxes and benefits
Foreign buyers are subject to the same taxes and duties as Italian citizens: registration, mortgage, and cadastral taxes. However, there are also benefits available if the property qualifies as a primary residence (not considered luxury housing) and is located in the municipality where the buyer will live within 18 months.
Key tax scenarios include:
- First home purchase from a private seller or older construction company: 2% registration tax on the cadastral value, plus fixed mortgage and cadastral taxes of €50 each.
- Purchase from a developer within 4 years of completion: 4% VAT, plus fixed registration, mortgage, and cadastral taxes of €200 each.
For luxury homes or secondary residences, the tax burden is higher, with registration, mortgage, and cadastral taxes applied at a proportional 9% rate if the property is not subject to VAT.
Rome seduces visitors not only with its art and architecture but also with its food culture and way of life. For many, what starts as a holiday marked by pasta, wine, and gelato evolves into a long-term dream of calling the Eternal City home.