by Guisela Chiarella
In a landmark year for Italian tourism, the country recorded 458.4 million overnight stays in 2024, surpassing France and securing second place in Europe, trailing only Spain. The latest data from Italy’s National Institute of Statistics (ISTAT) underscores the nation’s growing appeal among international travelers.
A Booming Sector
According to provisional figures, Italy’s tourism sector expanded by 2.5% compared to 2023, outpacing the European Union’s average growth rate of 1.9%. The surge was primarily driven by foreign tourists, whose overnight stays increased by 6.8%, even as domestic tourism registered a notable decline of 7.6%.
Outpacing France, Closing in on Spain
France, traditionally one of the top tourist destinations in the world, recorded 450.1 million overnight stays in 2024, marking a 0.8% drop from the previous year. Analysts suggest the decline was partly due to the Paris Summer Olympics, which temporarily redirected global travel demand. Meanwhile, Spain retained its position as Europe’s most visited country, registering 500.1 million overnight stays, a 3.3% increase from 2023.
A Decline in Total Arrivals
Despite the rise in overnight stays, the total number of visitors to Italy fell by 3.3% to 129.3 million. This trend was driven by a decrease in domestic travelers (-2.2%), while international arrivals edged up by 0.9%.
Where Are Visitors Coming From?
Foreign tourists now account for 54.6% of Italy’s total overnight stays. German travelers remain the leading group, demonstrating enduring loyalty to Italy despite broader economic concerns. France, the United Kingdom, and the United States follow closely behind as key sources of visitors.
The Economic Engine of Tourism
Tourism remains a critical pillar of Italy’s economy, contributing 10.8% to the nation’s GDP and accounting for 13% of total employment. The country’s rich cultural heritage, world-renowned cuisine, and diverse landscapes continue to attract travelers from across the globe.
Future Challenges and Opportunities
While the upward trajectory in overnight stays is a positive sign, experts caution that Italy must prioritize sustainable tourism and diversify its offerings to maintain long-term growth. Overtourism in major cities, environmental concerns, and regional disparities in visitor distribution present ongoing challenges. However, with strategic policies and a commitment to quality experiences, Italy is well-positioned to strengthen its standing in the European and global tourism market.
Is Our Region Ready?
Friuli Venezia Giulia has seen a record number of visitors, reflecting its rising popularity. Is our region ready to become the next top destination for international tourists? As the country navigates the future of travel, one thing is clear: Italy’s allure remains as strong as ever.
Interview: FVG governor, Massimiliano Fedriga
