by InTrieste
In a remarkable display of resilience, Friuli Venezia Giulia, has seen a surge in tourism in 2023. The latest figures reveal an impressive uptick in visitor numbers, underscoring the region’s growing allure as a premier travel destination.
According to recent data released by regional authorities in collaboration with PromoturismoFvg, Friuli Venezia Giulia welcomed a staggering 10,062,000 tourists in 2023 alone. This marks a notable 6.9% increase compared to the previous year and a remarkable 10.6% surge compared to pre-pandemic levels in 2019.
What makes this growth even more striking is the diverse mix of travelers contributing to the surge. Foreign tourists have led the charge with an 11.3% rise in numbers, while domestic travelers also saw a respectable 1.3% increase. This inclusive appeal has bolstered the region’s reputation as a global hotspot, drawing visitors from all corners of the globe.
Trieste, the region’s vibrant capital, emerged as a frontrunner in the tourism boom, recording a robust 14.4% increase in visitor numbers. Notably, other cities such as Gorizia, Udine, and Pordenone also experienced substantial growth, underscoring the region’s broad appeal.
Further analysis reveals that seaside resorts witnessed a modest 2.3% increase in visitors, while mountain destinations saw a remarkable 15.6% surge—a testament to Friuli Venezia Giulia’s diverse landscape and all-season appeal.
International arrivals painted an equally compelling picture, with tourists from Hungary leading the charge with an astonishing 38.2% increase. The United Kingdom, Czech Republic, Poland, Slovakia, and the United States also contributed significantly to the region’s tourism surge, signaling its growing global recognition.
A key driver behind this tourism renaissance has been the region’s strategic investments in infrastructure and promotion. New flight routes, particularly those connecting Trieste airport to European hubs like Barcelona and Dublin, have played a pivotal role in attracting international visitors.
Commenting on the region’s success, Massimiliano Fedriga, President of Friuli Venezia Giulia, expressed optimism about future prospects. “We are witnessing a remarkable resurgence in tourism, fueled by our concerted efforts in promotion and infrastructure development,” he remarked.
Indeed, the region’s commitment to long-term planning and quality enhancement has paid dividends, particularly evident in the winter sports sector. Ski resorts reported a significant 7.8% increase in first entries over the past five seasons, defying the odds posed by the pandemic-induced disruptions.
Looking ahead, authorities remain bullish about Friuli Venezia Giulia’s tourism prospects, buoyed by ongoing initiatives to enhance visitor experiences and infrastructure. With a robust foundation in place and a global spotlight shining brightly, the region is poised to emerge as a leading destination for discerning travelers seeking authentic experiences amidst Italy’s breathtaking landscapes.
