With an exceptional heritage, natural beauty and hospitality culture, Italy is the fifth most visited country in the world and particularly popular with affluent travellers.

Historically, the country’s hospitality industry has been dominated by small, family-owned businesses. However, the pandemic has created greater opportunities for international investors to acquire assets.

There has been a surge of greenfield investment projects in the sector, with Six Senses, Rosewood and Soho House among the latest global groups to announce moves into Italy.

Italian restaurants also have a perennial appeal to investors as well as foodies. One notable success story is the innovative retail and restaurant offering Eataly, which has expanded from Turin across the country and around the world.