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CNN reports that the ban applies to all types of short-term tourist accommodations such as Airbnb or Booking, effective November 18th, but has only recently been widely announced. Under the ban, all tourists must register their stay in person at the local police station, whereas previously online check-in was sufficient.
Along with the ban, police will remove combination locks and keypads from motels and hotels that offer self-check-in services.
The Italian Interior Ministry has introduced a series of measures, including a ban on self-check-in systems at accommodation establishments.
The explosion of short-term rental platforms like Airbnb has made the real estate situation in Italy more complicated than ever. This not only reduces the supply of apartments for local residents but also poses numerous risks to safety, order, and environmental hygiene.
In particular, with Italy preparing to host major international events such as the 2025 Vatican Jubilee, estimated to attract 30-35 million visitors, and the 2026 Winter Olympics in Cortina, ensuring security, order, and the country's image is a top priority. Therefore, this ban was issued to limit the negative impacts of short-term rentals, protect cultural and religious heritage, and ensure a safe and healthy living environment for both residents and tourists.
This is considered a good solution to address the ongoing tourism overload in the country.
Rome's mayor, Roberto Gualtieri, said he welcomed the ban, adding that the self-check-in locks and key boxes used by tourists had distorted the city's image as a tourist destination in the eyes of the international community. "This ban ensures the prevention of indiscriminate hotel room rentals, controls the number of tourists, and initially prevents unfair competition," Gualtieri told CNN.
Italian Tourism Minister Daniela Santanché called the ban an essential step to prevent risks and ensure a safe and positive travel experience. Prior to Rome, Florence in Tuscany, Italy, also banned key boxes to prevent tourist overcrowding.
