Where to buy a second home? By the sea or in the mountains?

In 2025, the Italian real estate market is experiencing a dynamic phase. According to the latest reports, interest in second homes is on the rise, both as an investment and as a retreat for leisure time. Thanks to the spread of remote working, the growth of domestic tourism, and the increasing focus on quality of life, more and more families and investors are asking themselves: is it better to buy a home by the sea or in the mountains?

The answer depends on several factors: property value, potential appreciation, management costs, and seasonal rental opportunities.

Buying a second home by the sea: trends and advantages

Italian coastal destinations continue to be among the most in demand. In 2025, demand is particularly high in Liguria, Puglia, Sicily, and Sardinia, where supply often falls short of buyer interest.

Why choose a home by the sea:

• Profitability from short-term rentals: seaside resorts attract international tourism, ensuring high occupancy rates during the summer months.

• Property appreciation: areas such as Costa Smeralda or the Ligurian Riviera are seeing property values rise, offering interesting investment prospects.

• Quality of life: living just steps away from the beach remains a timeless dream, even for those looking to stay for extended periods.

According to 2025 data, the average price per square meter in prestigious seaside tourist destinations exceeds €5,000, but competitive opportunities are available in property auctions or emerging areas.

Buying a second home in the mountains: trends and advantages

Italian mountain destinations, especially in Trentino-Alto Adige, Valle d’Aosta, and Lombardy, remain top choices for those seeking relaxation, nature, and winter sports.

Why choose a home in the mountains:

• Year-round tourism: not only skiing, but also trekking, bike parks, and wellness resorts attract visitors throughout the year.

• Lower costs: on average, purchasing a second home in the mountains is less expensive compared to many prestigious seaside areas.

• Market stability: properties in locations such as Cortina, Madonna di Campiglio, and Courmayeur maintain strong values and attract foreign investors.

In 2025, the average price of a mountain apartment ranges from €2,500 to €7,000 per square meter, with record peaks in Olympic venues.

Sea or mountains? Factors to consider before buying

The choice between sea and mountains should be carefully evaluated based on key aspects:

• Available budget: seaside homes can be more expensive, especially in luxury tourist areas.

• Investment goals: seaside rentals offer higher seasonal returns, while the mountains provide stability and less competition.

• Accessibility: transport and connections impact both the value and ease of use of the property.

• Management and maintenance: seaside homes exposed to salt air require more upkeep, while in the mountains heating costs weigh more heavily.

Opportunities from property auctions

For those looking to save, online property auctions represent a valid alternative. More and more second homes, both by the sea and in the mountains, are being sold through judicial or online auctions, offering starting prices lower than the traditional market.

Purchasing through an auction allows access to properties with strong potential for appreciation, especially in emerging tourist areas. On Gobidreal.it, for example, you can find villas, apartments, and holiday homes available at auction throughout Italy, with investment opportunities in both seaside and alpine destinations.

Conclusion: where is it most convenient in 2025?

There is no single answer. Those seeking immediate profitability and planning to rent to foreign tourists may prefer the sea, while those aiming to enhance a stable long-term investment will find the mountains a safe and less saturated option.

In both cases, 2025 proves to be a year of great opportunities for those looking to buy a second home. And online property auctions can be the right way to access attractive opportunities, with competitive prices and a wide range of options.

Internal Editorial Team