Is buying a property in San Marco (Venice) a good investment?

Last updated on December 29, 2023

Yes, the analysis of Venice's property market is included in our pack

If you've admired the iconic canals and historical significance of San Marco in Venice, you may consider owning property in this charming Italian city.

Is it a good idea though? What's the current state of the real estate market in that area? Are property values appreciating or depreciating? Are investors seeing returns on their real estate investments? How's the demand for rentals?

We'll answer all these questions for you! When building and updating our property pack for Italy, our team has been researching and surveying this area. In fact, there is significant customer interest in investing there. Therefore, we believe it would be beneficial to include some information about it in our property pack.

Why do property buyers like investing in San Marco (Venice)?

San Marco in Venice is a unique gem in the world of real estate, and there's a lot to unpack about its allure for property buyers.

Imagine a place where history, culture, and architectural beauty blend seamlessly – that's San Marco. What sets it apart from other real estate markets is its rich historical significance and iconic landmarks, like the renowned Piazza San Marco and the majestic Basilica di San Marco.

These aren't just tourist attractions; they create a living environment steeped in history and culture, something that's hard to find elsewhere.

Now, compared to other areas in Venice, San Marco has a certain prestige. It's often considered the heart of Venice, both geographically and culturally. While areas like Cannaregio or Dorsoduro have their charm.

San Marco is where you find the quintessential Venetian experience. It's like living in a postcard – every view is picturesque, every corner is a piece of history. This central location also means everything is within walking distance, be it exquisite restaurants, high-end shops, or cultural sites.

The popularity of San Marco as a prime real estate location isn't a recent phenomenon. Its status has been centuries in the making, evolving with Venice's storied history.

However, its appeal has surged notably in the past few decades, as global awareness and appreciation of Venice's cultural and historical significance have grown. This popularity is not just a passing trend.

The unique combination of history, beauty, and status that San Marco offers is enduring. It's not something that can be easily replicated or goes out of fashion.

The kind of people attracted to San Marco are as diverse as its offerings. You have history buffs, art lovers, luxury seekers, and those who appreciate the finer things in life.

It's not just about having the means to afford a property here; it's about valuing the unique lifestyle that only San Marco can offer. There's a sense of being part of something timeless and exclusive.

However, like any place, San Marco has its downsides. The very factors that make it attractive can also be drawbacks.

For instance, its popularity means it can get quite crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons. This can detract from the peaceful enjoyment of one's home and make daily life a bit hectic.

Additionally, the preservation of historical buildings, while culturally important, can pose challenges in terms of modernization and maintenance. Owning a property in such a historic area often comes with strict regulations and responsibilities.

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Why is San Marco (Venice) a nice place to live?

Living in San Marco is like stepping into a living, breathing work of art.

The lifestyle and culture there are steeped in history and elegance. Picture walking through narrow, winding streets and being surrounded by stunning architecture and canals. It's a place where modern life meets a rich historical past.

The local culture is vibrant, with numerous festivals and events, particularly during the famous Venice Carnival, making it an exciting place to live.

The expat community in San Marco is quite active. Given Venice's global appeal, you'll find a diverse group of people who have chosen to make this unique city their home. They often gather in cafes and restaurants, sharing their experiences and blending different cultures into the Venetian way of life.

Living in San Marco, however, does come with a high price tag. Property prices and the cost of living are among the highest in Italy.

This is due to its prime location, historical significance, and the unique lifestyle it offers. For those who can afford it, the experience is unparalleled, but it's certainly not a budget-friendly option.

In terms of safety, San Marco is generally considered safe. Like any popular tourist destination, there's the usual advice about being aware of pickpockets in crowded areas, but violent crime rates are relatively low.

When it comes to amenities and facilities, San Marco is well-equipped. For healthcare, there's the Ospedale Civile SS. Giovanni e Paolo, which is a major hospital in Venice, located not too far from San Marco. Shopping is a delight with a range of high-end boutiques and local artisan shops.

However, it's worth noting that you won't find large shopping centers here – the shopping experience is much more intimate and boutique-style. For families, the choice of schools within San Marco is limited, with more options available in other parts of Venice.

The infrastructure in San Marco reflects its status as a historic area. The roads are mostly pedestrian pathways and waterways, which adds to its charm but can be a bit of an adjustment for new residents.

Utilities are reliable, and internet connectivity, while not always the fastest, is generally adequate for most needs.

Accessibility is a unique aspect of San Marco. Unlike other cities, where you might rely on cars or buses, the primary modes of transportation here are walking and water-based.

The vaporetti (water buses) are the main form of public transport, connecting San Marco to other parts of Venice and to larger transport hubs like the Santa Lucia train station. To reach the airport, the Alilaguna water service is a convenient option.

How much does it cost to buy real estate in San Marco (Venice)?

If you need a detailed and updated analysis of the prices, rents and yields, you can get our full guide about real estate investment in Italy.

Buying a property in San Marco is an investment in one of the most iconic and culturally rich neighborhoods in the world.

The types of residential properties available here are quite diverse, ranging from charming apartments in historic buildings to more luxurious palazzos that line the canals. These properties are steeped in history and often feature unique architectural elements that reflect Venice's rich past.

In San Marco, apartments, especially those with views of the canals or landmarks, are in high demand. This is largely due to the unique Venetian lifestyle they offer, blending history with the allure of living in one of the most picturesque cities in the world.

Luxury properties, particularly those with direct canal access or those located in historically significant buildings, are also highly sought after.

Most of the properties in San Marco are resale; new developments are rare due to the neighborhood's historical status and strict preservation regulations. This scarcity of new properties adds to the exclusivity and charm of the area.

The price range for properties in San Marco can vary greatly depending on factors like size, condition, and location. Generally, prices per square meter can range from high to exceptionally high figures, making it one of the most expensive areas in Venice.

For example, a well-located apartment with a canal view could command a much higher price than a similar-sized property in a less prestigious location.

Over recent years, property values in San Marco have shown a trend of steady appreciation. This is due to the limited availability of properties and the evergreen allure of Venice as a cultural and tourist hub.

It's important to note that the real estate market here is quite unique and is influenced by factors different from those in a typical city environment.

Looking ahead, the real estate market in San Marco is expected to remain robust. The timeless appeal of Venice, coupled with the limited supply of properties, suggests that demand will continue to be strong.

However, potential buyers should be aware of the challenges posed by Venice's ongoing battle with flooding and the high cost of maintenance for historic properties, which can impact property values.

In terms of city planning and upcoming developments, Venice is continuously working on projects to preserve its heritage and combat issues like flooding. The MOSE project, for instance, is a system designed to protect the city from high tides and flooding.

While it's not specific to San Marco, such developments can have a positive impact on property values by preserving the city's integrity and livability.

Factors indicating a potential increase in value include the ongoing global fascination with Venice, the city's proactive measures to protect its heritage and environment, and the scarcity of new development projects in San Marco.

These elements combine to make property in San Marco not just a place to live, but a piece of history and a work of art, ensuring its appeal to a certain market segment that values these unique attributes.

Where is the best area to buy a property in San Marco (Venice)?

Choosing the best area to buy a property in San Marco is a matter of personal preference, budget, and what you're looking for in terms of atmosphere and lifestyle.

San Marco, known for its historical and cultural richness, offers a variety of experiences depending on where you are.

One of the most prestigious and sought-after areas is around the Piazza San Marco itself. This area is the heart of Venice, known for its magnificent architecture and bustling atmosphere, filled with cafes, shops, and historical sites like the Basilica di San Marco and the Doge's Palace. Properties here are mostly historic apartments, offering a quintessential Venetian experience.

However, the prices in this area are among the highest due to its prime location and the prestige associated with living in such a significant and central part of Venice.

Moving slightly away from the Piazza, areas like the Mercerie offer a slightly quieter but still centrally located living experience. The Mercerie is a series of streets linking the Rialto Bridge and Piazza San Marco, known for its luxury shops and historic charm.

Here, you can find a mix of residential properties, from smaller apartments to more expansive homes. The prices are still high, but it offers a balance of convenience and a slightly more relaxed atmosphere compared to the immediate vicinity of the Piazza.

For those looking for up-and-coming areas within San Marco, the area around Campo Santo Stefano might be of interest. It’s less touristy than Piazza San Marco but still offers a beautiful Venetian setting with a more local feel.

The properties here range from charming apartments to larger, more luxurious options. The prices are generally lower than those found around Piazza San Marco, making it an attractive option for buyers.

However, certain areas in San Marco might be less advisable for property buyers. Areas that are too close to popular tourist routes can be very crowded, especially in peak tourist seasons, which might detract from the residential experience.

Also, some parts closer to the Grand Canal might be prone to higher levels of noise and foot traffic.

Here is a summary table to help you visualize better. If you need more detailed data and information, please check our property pack for Italy.

Area	Atmosphere	Property Types	Price Range
Piazza San Marco Vicinity	Bustling, historic, tourist center	Historic apartments	Highest
Mercerie	Quieter, luxury shopping area	Mix of apartments and larger homes	High
Campo Santo Stefano Area	Less touristy, local feel	Charming apartments to luxurious options	Medium to High
Areas near popular tourist routes	Crowded, high foot traffic	Varied	Varied
Areas close to Grand Canal	Noisy, busy with tourists	Varied	Varied

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Is there a strong rental demand in San Marco (Venice)?

San Marco indeed experiences a strong rental demand, largely driven by its unique charm and global appeal.

When considering the nature of this demand, it's important to distinguish between short-term and long-term rentals.

Short-term rentals are particularly popular in San Marco, primarily due to the area's status as a major tourist destination. Visitors from all over the world are attracted to the historical and cultural richness of Venice, and many prefer the intimate, authentic experience of staying in a residential property over a hotel.

The target demographic for short-term rentals typically includes tourists, couples on romantic getaways, and culture enthusiasts. These renters often look for well-furnished apartments, ideally with characteristic Venetian features like canal views, balconies, or historical architectural details.

Properties located close to major attractions like Piazza San Marco, the Rialto Bridge, or along the Grand Canal are especially sought after.

For long-term rentals, the demand is more nuanced. The demographic here includes expatriates, professionals working in Venice, and sometimes students or academics connected to local institutions.

These renters usually seek comfortable and practical living spaces, with a preference for modern amenities like good heating systems, air conditioning, and reliable internet connectivity. While they appreciate the historical charm of San Marco, they also value convenience and access to local services.

Certain amenities can significantly reduce vacancy rates and attract more renters. For instance, properties equipped with modern facilities, well-maintained interiors, and those offering a blend of Venetian charm with contemporary comfort tend to be more popular.

Additionally, properties that provide easy access to public transportation, local markets, and essential services are more attractive to potential tenants.

Regarding the potential returns on investment for properties in San Marco, they can be quite attractive, especially for short-term rentals. Given the high demand and premium location, property owners can expect substantial rental income, particularly during peak tourist seasons.

However, it's important to note that the returns depend on various factors, including the property's condition, location, and the level of competition in the area.

Lately, certain types of properties are seeing increased demand and could potentially offer better yields. For instance, smaller apartments that are well-renovated and tastefully furnished are increasingly popular among short-term renters.

These properties often provide a more affordable option for visitors while still offering the unique Venetian experience.

Similarly, properties that offer outdoor spaces like small terraces or courtyards are also becoming more sought-after, as they provide an additional element of charm and relaxation.

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Is it easy to buy a property as foreigner in San Marco (Venice)?

Before we answer the question, please know that we have an article dedicated to the experience of buying real estate as a foreigner in Italy.

Buying a property as a foreigner in San Marco, Venice is relatively straightforward, but it does come with specific considerations and challenges.

Firstly, it's important to note that Italy, including Venice, does not have any overarching restrictions on foreign property ownership. This means that, in general, foreigners have the same rights to buy property in San Marco as Italian citizens.

The purchasing process in San Marco follows the standard Italian property buying procedure. It typically begins with the buyer making a formal offer on a property. Once accepted, a preliminary contract (Compromesso) is signed, and the buyer usually pays a deposit.

The final step is the deed of sale (Rogito), signed in front of a notary, where the remaining balance is paid, and the property ownership is officially transferred.

However, there are risks and potential pitfalls associated with property investment in San Marco. One of the primary risks is the condition and age of the property. Many buildings in Venice are historic and may require significant maintenance or face issues like rising damp or flooding. Understanding and managing these aspects is crucial.

A common mistake foreign buyers make is underestimating the complexities of buying and maintaining a property in a historic and environmentally sensitive area like Venice.

This includes not fully accounting for restoration and maintenance costs, especially given the strict regulations surrounding the renovation of historic buildings.

Working with a local real estate agent or lawyer is highly important in this context. They can provide invaluable guidance on local property laws, assist in navigating the complexities of the Italian property market, and help ensure all legal requirements are met.

They can also offer insights into the local real estate market, including fair pricing, property condition assessments, and negotiation tactics.

For property investors in San Marco, common exit strategies include selling the property or renting it out, either as a long-term rental to local residents or as a short-term holiday rental to tourists. The latter can be particularly lucrative given Venice's status as a major global tourist destination.

However, it's important to stay informed about local regulations concerning rentals, as cities like Venice have started implementing rules to manage the impact of short-term rentals on local communities.