Easter is expected to bring growth in tourism, with over 7 million visitors anticipated in the country’s official accommodation facilities from 30th March to 2nd April.
If realised, this would show a 1.2% increase compared to last year (2023). The main driving force behind this growth is foreign visitors, showing a notable rise of 3.2% compared to 2023.
These findings emerge from a survey conducted by the Florence Tourist Study Centre for Assoturismo Confesercenti. The results are based on data from 1,308 Italian hospitality businesses. Overall, forecasts are positive, although comparisons with last year are challenging due to the different calendar positioning for this year’s Easter period.
Bookings show large influx of foreign visitors
Italian tourists are expected to account for 51% of the total movement during the holiday period. Foreign visitors make up the remaining 49%.
While foreign presence shows an increase, Italian demand sees a slight decline of 0.8%, attributed to ongoing economic constraints impacting budgets and consumption choices.
Regional variation
The anticipated trend is positive across the country, although variations are noted in different types of offers and regions.
The north-west regions are projected to experience the most significant movement, with a 1.8% increase (0.4% decrease in Italians and 4.2% increase in foreigners). This is followed by the Central regions with a 1.2% increase (-0.9% Italians and +3.4% foreigners). The Southern and Island regions are estimated to see a 0.7% increase (-0.4% Italians and +2.3% foreigners). Meanwhile the north-east is expected to experience a 0.9% increase (-1.1% Italians and +2.7% foreigners).
Artistic and cultural heritage sites are popular
For the upcoming Easter holidays, artistic and cultural heritage sites are expected to generate the most interest. This will be particularly true among foreign visitors, with an estimated attendance increase of 2.7%.
Mountain ski destinations are also anticipated to see a significant share of visitors, with a projected increase of 2.1%. Lakeside and countryside/hill locations are estimated to see increases of 1.1% and 0.3%, respectively, while slight declines are expected for marine destinations and spa destinations (-0.7% each).
Italian tourists are expected to dominate in coastal, spa, and other interest locations, while foreign tourists are likely to favour cities/art centres, countryside/hill locations, lakes, and mountains.
Where are the tourists originating from?
The majority of foreign visitors are expected to come from European countries. There are notable increases from German, French, Swiss, Belgian, and Spanish tourists. Additionally, the American market is showing significant growth, particularly in cities of art, villages, rural, and hilly areas.
Other markets experiencing growth include the Netherlands, Austria, Poland, Arab countries, and South American countries.
