Key facts
- Italy is expected to be the most popular European destination for tourism in 2026.
- Overall tourist arrivals in Italy increased by 4.43% in the first half of 2026.
- Calabria, Umbria, and Piedmont showed the strongest growth in tourist arrivals.
- International arrivals grew by 6.45%, while domestic arrivals increased by 1.97%.
- The accommodation saturation rate in Italy reached 51.2%, exceeding Spain and France.
Italy is set to be the most visited European country in 2026, with tourism figures showing a significant increase in both domestic and international arrivals during the first half of the year. The overall arrival growth reached 4.43% compared to the same period in 2025.
Calabria, Umbria, and Piedmont emerged as the regions with the strongest growth in tourist arrivals, posting increases of 10.54%, 9.70%, and 9.22% respectively. Sardinia also experienced a notable boom, with an 8.24% rise in arrivals, particularly from foreign visitors.
International arrivals saw a substantial increase of 6.45%, with Calabria leading the surge at 23.19%, followed by Apulia at 14.63%. Domestic arrivals also contributed to the growth, rising by 1.97%, with Umbria and Liguria showing the highest peaks.
The accommodation saturation rate across Italy stood at 51.2%, higher than competitors like Spain (42.8%) and France (32.9%). Regions such as Veneto, Emilia-Romagna, Trento, and Bolzano recorded the highest saturation rates, all above the national average. Lake districts, spa resorts, and coastal destinations were particularly in demand.
Tourism Minister Gianmarco Mazzi highlighted the sector's record-breaking performance and its role as a pillar of the national economy. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni expressed satisfaction, thanking industry professionals and pledging continued government support for the strategic sector.