ROME – Italy saw a strong rise in tourism this August, with more than 15.6 million visitors arriving between 1 and 18 August. The Interior Ministry reported a 9.3% increase compared with the same period in 2024.
Key points:
- Tourist arrivals reached 15.66 million in mid-August, up from 14.33 million last year.
- Italian visitors rose from 6.79 million to 7.33 million.
- Foreign arrivals increased from 7.54 million to 8.33 million.
The growth confirms Italy’s position as one of Europe’s most popular summer destinations. The ministry’s data shows both Italian and foreign arrivals on the rise, with international tourists outnumbering domestic travellers in the first half of August.
The “Alloggiati web” database, managed by the State Police, requires hotels and other accommodation providers to register guest details within 24 hours. This system offers one of the most accurate measures of arrivals.
Wider Tourism Trends
The rise in August fits into a broader pattern. The Italian National Tourist Board (ENIT) estimated that 27 million people would visit between June and September 2025. Of these, nearly 19 million were expected to come from abroad, with demand up by about 18% compared to last summer.
Italy also ranks among Europe’s best destinations for visitor satisfaction. From January to August, the country achieved a score of 86.4, placing just behind Greece but ahead of Spain and France. Tourists also rated Italy as the safest country in Europe for travel.
Spending has followed the same upward trend. In 2024, international visitors spent €20.9 billion through card payments, almost 38% more than in 2022. Tourists from the United States, Brazil and Australia were key contributors, while travellers from Saudi Arabia and the UAE recorded the highest average spending per transaction.
Chinese tourism is also rebounding strongly. Milan welcomed more than 900,000 tourists in a single month earlier this year, a 9% rise on 2024. Many Chinese visitors are seeking cultural experiences in art cities and rural destinations.
Political Reactions
The tourism boom has become part of Italy’s political debate. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni highlighted the new figures to reject claims by opposition leader Elly Schlein of a “tourism crisis”. Meloni said the data from Alloggiati web proves arrivals are increasing.
Schlein pointed instead to reports of higher costs for Italians. Consumer groups and beach unions have noted a 15% fall in beach attendance and a 34% rise in the price of sunbeds, umbrellas and meals. She argued that rising costs are pushing many Italians out of the holiday market, even as foreign arrivals climb.
