Tourism spending during the week of the mid-August Ferragosto holiday is set to approach €5 billion, according to a survey released on Monday by the CNA small-business association.
In Summary:
- Tourism turnover for 11–18 August estimated at nearly €5 billion.
- Over 5 million visitors expected, generating 15 million overnight stays.
- Italian tourists outnumber foreign visitors, but foreigners stay longer.
- Seaside resorts top the list for Italians; cities of art for foreigners.
- Growing interest in destinations with food and wine experiences.
Concentrated August holidays
After a very hot June and a milder July, many Italians postponed or shortened their holidays, concentrating them in August. CNA Tourism and Commerce says the week of 11–18 August will be the busiest period of the summer with Ferragosto tourism turnover hitting €5billion.
The association hopes tourists will extend the season, which has so far been less dynamic than previous years.
Numbers and preferences
The survey forecasts more than 5 million tourists—counting only overnight stays—with over 15 million overnight stays recorded. Italian visitors have increased in proportion to foreign tourists compared to last year, largely due to the concentrated holiday period. However, the average stay for foreign tourists remains longer.
Preferred destinations include seaside resorts, art cities and towns, and mountain areas. Italians overwhelmingly favour the coast, while foreign visitors tend to choose cities and towns rich in cultural heritage.
The draw of food and wine
An increasing number of tourists are choosing destinations based on food and wine offerings. This trend is driving interest in areas where gastronomy is part of the cultural and leisure experience, benefiting local producers and restaurants.
