Are you thinking of renting an apartment for a few days, weeks, or even several months? Before doing so, it’s essential to understand the difference between holiday rentals and seasonal rentals, as it not only affects the length of your stay but also legal, tax, and service-related aspects.
In this article, we explain what characterises each type of rental, when one is more appropriate than the other, and how to choose the accommodation that best suits your needs.
What is a holiday rental?
A holiday rental is one that is offered for days or weeks, and is mainly aimed at tourists looking for fully equipped accommodation for short stays. These rentals are typically managed as a business activity, meaning they must comply with specific regulations depending on the region.
Characteristics of a holiday rental:
- Short duration: from one night up to a maximum of 30 days (although it may be slightly longer).
- Touristic use: the goal is leisure, holidays, or tourism.
- Furnished and equipped properties with included services: kitchenware, bed linen, cleaning, WiFi, etc.
- Actively advertised on platforms like Airbnb, Booking, Expedia, or on their own websites.
- Registered as tourist accommodation (VUT).
- Usually offer additional services: online check-in, guest assistance, maintenance service, etc.
What is a seasonal rental?
On the other hand, a seasonal rental refers to medium-term contracts, usually longer than a month, but not meeting the requirements of a regular long-term rental.
Characteristics of a seasonal rental:
- Medium or long duration: from 1 to 11 months.
- Non-touristic purpose: for example, temporary relocation for work, studies, medical treatments, or simply spending a season in another city.
- May also be furnished and equipped, but are not required to offer touristic services.
- Governed by the seasonal lease contract as per the Urban Lease Law (LAU).
- No need for VUT registration, but the temporary nature of the rental must be justified.
Main differences between holiday rentals and seasonal rentals
Below is a comparative table summarising the main differences between both types of rentals:
| Feature | Holiday Rental | Seasonal Rental |
| Duration | Days or weeks | Months (1 to 11) |
| Purpose of stay | Holidays, leisure, tourism | Work, studies, health, temporary relocations |
| Type of contract | Tourist use / services | Seasonal lease (LAU) |
| Mandatory registration | Yes, as VUT | Not required (depends on local regulation) |
| Included services | Cleaning, amenities, check-in/check-out | Basic, no obligation for touristic services |
| Taxation | Declared as business activity | Subject to IRPF, exempt from VAT |
| Advertising | Tourist platforms | Property portals, agencies, own website |
Which option is better for your trip?
Holiday rental: ideal for short stays
If you’re planning a weekend getaway, summer holiday, or a few days of relaxation on the coast, a holiday rental is the best option. Everything is ready for you to check in without worrying about long contracts or additional paperwork.
Perfect for:
- Tourists seeking short-term accommodation with services.
- Families, couples or groups who want privacy and comfort.
- Stays from 2 to 30 days.
On our website, you can book holiday apartments in Cala de Finestrat, Benidorm, and Villajoyosa with full flexibility and beachfront locations.
Seasonal rental: ideal for longer stays
Are you planning to work remotely from the coast? Moving for a few months for personal reasons? In this case, a seasonal rental might offer better rates and conditions.
Perfect for:
- People relocating temporarily.
- Business professionals on assignment.
- Students or digital nomads.
What happens if the contract is not clearly defined?
One of the most common mistakes is to sign a seasonal contract for touristic purposes, or vice versa. This can lead to legal penalties for the property owner and complications for the guest if there are misunderstandings about the duration, services, or responsibilities.
Recommendation: make sure the property has the appropriate tourist licence if you’re looking for a holiday rental, or that the seasonal contract is properly drafted if you’re staying for several months.
Where to find apartments based on the type of rental?
On our platform, we clearly distinguish between short-term tourist apartments and temporary rental flats, so you can find the option that best suits your needs:
All our accommodations are fully equipped, located in strategic areas, and professionally managed.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I rent a holiday apartment for a whole month?
Yes, as long as the property is available and the use remains touristic. Some owners offer discounts for longer stays.
What contract is signed in a holiday rental?
It is not governed by the LAU, but by the tourism regulations of each autonomous region. You don’t need to justify the reason for your trip.
Is a seasonal rental cheaper?
Usually yes, since it doesn’t include services like cleaning or reception. But this depends on the location and length of stay.
Do I need to justify the reason for a seasonal rental?
Yes. While not strictly enforced, the contract must reflect the non-habitual nature of the rental.
Conclusion: define your stay to choose the right rental
Whether you’re planning a short escape or a few months on the Costa Blanca, it’s essential to understand the difference between holiday rentals and seasonal rentals. This allows you to find the accommodation that best fits your needs, with clear conditions from the very beginning.