Vacation rental management in Segovia, let's talk

Segovia has a clearly defined seasonality, with strong peaks from spring through summer. Easter, national long weekends, and the months of July and August usually concentrate the highest demand, with particularly high occupancy in well-located properties near the historic center. During these periods, nightly rates naturally increase due to the volume of visitors and the limited availability of accommodation.

In autumn, the city maintains stable occupancy thanks to cultural, gastronomic, and weekend getaway tourism. Winter brings a slight decrease in demand, but there are still regular bookings from national travelers, professionals, and small groups seeking short stays. With professional management, this period can also be profitable through dynamic pricing strategies.

Profitability depends on factors such as location, property size, the number of real beds, and the condition of the home. Renovated or well-decorated apartments near the Aqueduct, Cathedral, or Plaza Mayor tend to achieve higher nightly rates and maintain a steady flow of bookings. Larger units or those suitable for small groups also perform very well, as they fill a segment of the market that is not widely covered.

Each property has its own potential, which is why we prepare a realistic projection study based on market data, comparisons with similar accommodations, and average occupancy by season. This ensures that the owner knows how much they can earn before starting — without empty promises.

Yes, as long as the property is registered as a Vivienda de Uso Turístico (VUT) with the regional government of Castilla y León. To do this, you must have a certificate or license of first occupancy, meet habitability requirements, and display the registration number in all online listings. In addition, the owner is required to report guest information to the police through the traveler registration form.

Complying with these steps not only avoids fines but also provides legal security and transparency for platforms such as Airbnb or Booking.com. At Cabana Rentals, we handle the registration, documentation, and administrative procedures so you can operate legally without complications.

Typical expenses include cleaning between bookings, textile laundry, utility consumption, and maintenance. As the property receives guests, small replacements (kitchenware, amenities, minor repairs) may appear — something completely normal in holiday rentals. The key is not to eliminate these costs, but to manage them properly so they don’t affect your profit margin.

In a traditional rental, the monthly income is fixed and the return per square meter is low. In contrast, in holiday rentals, the combination of seasonal pricing + optimized occupancy generally results in higher annual profits. Our management system helps balance income and costs to maintain a positive, sustained long-term outcome.

Properties located in the historic center — especially around the Aqueduct, Cathedral, and Plaza Mayor — receive the highest number of bookings due to their proximity to the main attractions. Renovated apartments in historic buildings or homes with charm tend to perform exceptionally well, as guests seek an authentic experience of the city.

Accommodations in well-connected residential neighborhoods or near the train station also work very well, attracting travelers looking for convenience, parking, and a quieter stay. These properties often receive shorter but frequent bookings, ideal for maintaining stable occupancy throughout the year.

The process usually takes between two and four weeks, depending on the property’s documentation and the administrative workload of the regional registry. During this period, habitability is reviewed, registration is processed, and the mandatory VUT identification number is issued.

At the same time, we prepare the professional photo shoot, pricing strategy, and listing content to publish the property on platforms and start accepting bookings without delays. Proper planning ensures the property can generate income from the very first month.

Holiday rental income is usually taxed as real estate capital income when the owner does not provide hotel-like services. If the property offers services such as daily cleaning, catering, or reception, the activity is classified as an economic activity and taxation rules change.

Regarding VAT, it only applies when services comparable to those of a hotel are offered — not in standard short-term rentals. Each case varies depending on the owner’s profile, so we offer guidance to structure your tax obligations correctly and avoid issues later on.

What is the difference between holiday rentals and long-term rentals in Segovia?

Long-term rentals provide fixed monthly income, but financial growth is limited by the agreed rent and contract terms. Holiday rentals in Segovia, however, allow for higher earnings in short periods, especially during weekends, cultural seasons, summer months, or local festivities. With a well-located property and professional management, it is common for annual returns to exceed those of conventional rentals.

Additionally, holiday rentals offer more control over the property, as it is inspected after each stay and is not occupied for months by a long-term tenant. This reduces accumulated wear and tear and allows you to decide when to use it, renovate it, or even remove it from the market without eviction processes or lengthy negotiations.

Can the homeowners’ association prohibit holiday rentals in Segovia?

In Castilla y León, the homeowners’ association can limit or prohibit tourist use only if this is explicitly stated in the community statutes and approved by the required majority. In buildings where this has not been properly regulated, holiday rentals cannot be retroactively prohibited for properties already operating or complying with regional regulations.

It is highly advisable to review the community statutes, meeting minutes, and internal agreements before starting the activity. At Cabana Rentals, we analyze the building and its legal framework to avoid conflicts and ensure that your property operates with full legal backing.

What safety requirements must a holiday home in Segovia meet?

Tourist homes must provide essential information for guests, including contact details, emergency phone numbers, and house rules. It is advisable to have a basic first-aid kit, clear appliance instructions, and an evacuation protocol, especially in historic or renovated buildings in the city center.

Although regulations are not as detailed as in the Canary Islands, meeting safety standards improves the guest experience, reduces incidents, and boosts positive reviews. The difference between an average accommodation and a highly rated one often lies in these small details.

What type of property works best as a holiday rental in Segovia?

Properties with historical charm — high ceilings, exposed beams, traditional features — are especially attractive to tourists looking for an authentic city experience. One- or two-bedroom apartments recently renovated in the center perform very well, especially near the Aqueduct, Cathedral, Alcázar, or Plaza Mayor.

Accommodations with nearby parking or easy access for travelers arriving by car or AVE also perform strongly.

Larger homes or single-family houses in quiet areas can achieve higher nightly rates, as they attract families and groups seeking comfort and privacy. We analyze each property to determine its true earning potential based on its profile.

How can I increase occupancy in my holiday rental in Segovia?

A holiday rental performs better when it adapts to the traveler’s expectations. Professional photography, thoughtful decoration, and clear descriptions help your property stand out. Publishing on multiple platforms such as Airbnb and Booking.com, using dynamic pricing, and maintaining fast, friendly communication with guests are also key.

Positive reviews are the main driver for maintaining occupancy during low season and increasing the average booking value. At Cabana Rentals, we take care of operations, positioning, and property maintenance so your home maximizes profitability all year round.

At CABANA, we handle all of this for you to maximize occupancy and profitability.