Key facts
- Italy expects 17.5 million tourists between August 1 and 23, 2026.
- This includes 8.4 million Italians and 9 million international visitors.
- Direct tourist spending is forecast to exceed €9 billion.
- The total economic impact could surpass €15 billion.
- A growing trend sees fewer Italians traveling in August, opting for June, July, or September.
- Seaside resorts are the most popular destinations, followed by cities and historic villages.
Italy is anticipating a significant influx of tourists during the August Ferragosto period, with projections indicating 17.5 million visitors and an estimated €9 billion in direct spending. This surge includes 8.4 million Italians and 9 million international travelers, who are expected to contribute to an overall economic impact potentially exceeding €15 billion when considering ancillary sectors.
However, traveler habits are evolving, with less than 40% of holidaymakers planning to travel in August. A notable trend shows a preference for spreading holidays across June, July, and September, indicating a more even distribution of tourism throughout the summer months. While domestic destinations remain popular among Italians, a substantial number, approximately 6.2 million, are opting for European travel, with Spain, Greece, and France being favored.
Foreign tourist spending in Italy reached nearly €57 billion in 2025, marking a 4.8% increase from the previous year. This positive trend is further supported by a 4.43% rise in arrivals in the first half of 2026 compared to the same period in 2025, with foreign arrivals showing a more robust growth of 6.45%. Spending by foreign travelers in Italy during the first half of 2026 increased by 2.1% to €4.5 billion, while Italian spending abroad decreased by 1.6% to €2.7 billion.
Seaside resorts are leading demand with an 82% occupancy rate, followed by cities and historic villages. Rome, Naples, and Venice are noted for high occupancy rates among cities. The primary sources of foreign tourists are the United States, the United Kingdom, France, and Germany. Italy is also projected to be the preferred summer holiday destination for 54% of European travelers in 2026, ahead of Spain, Greece, and France.