GITNUX MARKETDATA REPORT 2024

Italy Tourism Statistics: Market Report & Data

Highlights: Italy Tourism Statistics

  • In 2019, Italy recorded a whopping 94.3 million international tourist arrivals.
  • Italy’s hospitality industry, including food services, generated about 51.3 billion euros in 2015.
  • Italy experienced over 420 million night stays by non-resident tourists in 2017.
  • Venice, one of Italy's top tourist attractions, hosted around 30 million tourists in 2019.
  • In 2018, international tourism expenditure in Italy was estimated to be approximately 44.7 billion euros.
  • Rome's Colosseum, Italy's most famous monument, sees over 7.6 million visitors every year.
  • Italy's total contribution from Travel & Tourism to GDP was 13% in 2019.
  • About 56% of nights spent by tourists in Italy in 2019 were by foreigners.
  • The second largest group of foreign visitors to Italy in 2019 came from Germany, with about 11 million arrivals.
  • In 2017, the Italian region with the highest number of holiday accommodations was Lombardy, with 4405 facilities.
  • Italy welcomed 58.3 million tourists in 2017, making it the fifth most visited country globally.
  • The Tourist to resident ratio in Italy is 1.5, as of 2017.
  • In 2018, the tourism industry in Italy created 2.05 million jobs directly.
  • In 2019, tourism generated around 232 billion euros in Italy amounting to 13.3% of GDP.
  • Italy expects to lose at least 31.6 billion euros in foreign tourist spending in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
  • In Italy, domestic tourists stay on average 3.5 nights, while foreign tourists stay on average 6.4 nights, as per the 2019 data.
  • Italy had a 2.8% share of international overnight stays at tourist accommodations among EU countries in 2016.
  • The Vatican Museums in Italy welcomed around 6.7 million visitors in 2019.
  • Italy's accommodation and food services sectors made up 4.1% of total employment in the country in 2016.

Our Newsletter

The Business Week In Data

Sign up for our newsletter and become the navigator of tomorrow's trends. Equip your strategy with unparalleled insights!

Table of Contents

Italy with its rich cultural heritage, splendid landscapes and gastronomic delights captures the attention of globetrotters on a large scale. This blog post delves into the intricate aspects of Italy’s tourism statistics, offering a comprehensive analysis of visitor numbers, tourist demographics, peak travel periods, and popular destinations. By decoding these numbers and trends, we aim to furnish pragmatic insights that aid tourists in planning and businesses in strategizing, stimulating the culture of informed and data-driven decisions.

The Latest Italy Tourism Statistics Unveiled

In 2019, Italy recorded a whopping 94.3 million international tourist arrivals.

Spotlighting the impressive figure of 94.3 million international tourist arrivals in Italy for 2019 speaks volumes about the magnetic appeal of this Mediterranean nation. It serves as a testament to Italy’s riveting allure – from its rich history and culture, delectable cuisine, to breathtaking landscapes. This crescendo in visitor numbers also echoes the rising global interest and burgeoning international prominence of Italy as a preferred travel destination. All these elements elevate the importance of keenly understanding and leveraging tourism statistics, not only for related industries, but also for policy planning aimed at ensuring a sustainable, balanced, and beneficial growth in visitor influx.

Italy’s hospitality industry, including food services, generated about 51.3 billion euros in 2015.

Highlighting the gargantuan monetary contribution of 51.3 billion euros in 2015 by Italy’s hospitality industry, including food services, underscores the vitality of this sector within the country’s tourism landscape. This impressive figure not only serves as a testament to Italy’s irresistible charm, famed cuisine, and warm hospitality that continues to attract tourists worldwide, but it also points towards the cyclical benefits this has on Italy’s economy. This statistic expertly encapsulates the dynamic interaction between Italy’s thriving hospitality industry and its booming tourism, emphasizing the significant role of the former in steering the successful trajectory of the latter in this Mediterranean nation.

Italy experienced over 420 million night stays by non-resident tourists in 2017.

The revelation of Italy entertaining over 420 million night stays from non-resident tourists in 2017 underscores the magnetic allure of the country as a holiday destination. This figure provides a quantitative measure of Italy’s success in the realm of international tourism, suggestive of its splendid landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and enticing gastronomy that manage to draw millions of global tourists. For anyone analyzing Italy’s tourism sector, this statistic offers a discernible indicator of the scale of its tourism industry and hints at the substantial revenues generated thus contributing significantly to its economy. This indeed verifies Italy as a tourism powerhouse, impressing with its capacity to captivate and accommodate hordes of international visitors annually.

Venice, one of Italy’s top tourist attractions, hosted around 30 million tourists in 2019.

Painting a riveting image of Italy’s tourism allure, the 2019 figure of an astounding 30 million visitors descending upon Venice offers a convincing testament to the city’s immense global appeal. As one of Italy’s crown jewels, this immersive statistic reinforces Venice’s tourism dominance, serving as a potent indicator of Italy’s overall enticing draw for international tourists. This high volume of visitors, thus, manifests not only the powerful magnetism of Venice’s renowned canals and gondolas but also forms a significant portion of Italy’s total tourism influx, speaking volumes about the Italian tourism industry’s thriving vitality and magnetic lure.

In 2018, international tourism expenditure in Italy was estimated to be approximately 44.7 billion euros.

Highlighting the impressive sum of 44.7 billion euros expended in international tourism in Italy in 2018 magnifies the economic significance and influential power international tourists wield on Italy’s economy. Commonly recognized for its historical sites, art-rich cities, picturesque countryside, and gastronomic delights, Italy is a prime destination for global vacationers, who significantly boost the country’s fiscal health and development. Consequently, acknowledging this statistic allows readers to comprehend the substantial contribution tourism makes to Italy’s economy and underscores the vital role it serves in socio-economic development, job creation, and cultural preservation within the nation.

Rome’s Colosseum, Italy’s most famous monument, sees over 7.6 million visitors every year.

Embarking on the journey to examine Italy’s tourism dynamics comes with encounters of various compelling statistics, key among them is the observation that Rome’s Colosseum, the country’s most famous monument, attracts an overwhelming 7.6 million visitors annually. This dynamic numeric revelation not only acknowledges the Colosseum’s cultural potency and historical intrigue, but it also serves as an indicator of its significant role in driving the country’s tourism industry. Essentially, it accentuates the immense gravitational pull of Italy’s heritage sites on global tourists, thereby substantiating their contribution to the country’s economic prosperity and shaping Italy’s identity within the international tourism market.

Italy’s total contribution from Travel & Tourism to GDP was 13% in 2019.

Lacing both the charm of its vibrant culture and the allure of its scenic beauty, Italy has always been an attractive destination for global tourists. The striking detail represented by the statistic, that Italy’s total contribution from Travel & Tourism accounted for 13% of its GDP in 2019, serves to underline the very lifeblood of the nation’s economy in terms of tourism. This is not merely a percentage, but a testament to the magnetic allure Italy holds as a tourist hub, characterizing the financial vitality and significance of Italy’s tourism industry within broader economic frameworks. Within a post about Italy’s tourism statistics, this arresting figure certainly enhances the reader’s understanding of the overwhelming influence tourism has in shaping Italy’s economic landscape.

About 56% of nights spent by tourists in Italy in 2019 were by foreigners.

Highlighting the statistic that around 56% of tourist nights in Italy in 2019 were accounted for by foreigners underscores the international appeal of Italy as a tourist destination. It underscores how Italy’s rich history, breath-taking landscapes, and world-renowned cuisine are not simply local treasures, but global attractions as well. Use of this data lends depth and context to the blog’s discussion by illustrating the sizeable demand for Italy’s tourist offerings in the global market and demonstrating the significant role international tourists play in the thriving Italian tourism industry.

The second largest group of foreign visitors to Italy in 2019 came from Germany, with about 11 million arrivals.

Highlighting the figure of approximately 11 million German visitors to Italy in 2019 bolsters the understanding of the demographic landscape within Italian tourism. It showcases a robust interest from Germany towards Italy’s rich cultural heritage, delicious cuisine, stunning landscapes, and Mediterranean charm. This data not only signals potential marketing strategies to attract more German tourists but also underlines the need to maintain a good relationship with this substantial tourist group. Therefore, it forms an integral part of a holistic view of Italy’s tourism industry, facilitating strategic decision making, and fine-tuning of promotional undertakings.

In 2017, the Italian region with the highest number of holiday accommodations was Lombardy, with 4405 facilities.

Peeling back the layers of Italy’s vibrant tourism industry, we immerse ourselves into curious data trends shaping the sector. Unsurprisingly, in 2017, Lombardy, draped in its envious mix of vibrant city life and serene lakeside towns, emerged as the leader with a whopping 4405 holiday accommodations. This insight provides compelling evidence of Lombardy’s magnetism, offering a definitive view of the region’s lodgings demand and underscoring its central role in Italy’s tourism realm. Additionally, this figure clothes us with vital intel to dissect tourism patterns, regional attractiveness, and potential investment opportunities.

Italy welcomed 58.3 million tourists in 2017, making it the fifth most visited country globally.

Standing as a testament to Italy’s unrivaled allure, the stunning statistic of the country playing host to 58.3 million tourists in 2017 fortifies its reputation as a global tourism hotspot. Occupying the impressive fifth slot in the most visited nations worldwide, this figure spotlights Italy’s magnetism, transcending the realms of cultural heritage, artistic wealth, culinary temptation, and natural beauty. This nugget of numerical insights, in the context of a blog post about Italy Tourism Statistics, could powerfully illustrate the strength and growth potential of the nationwide tourist industry.

The Tourist to resident ratio in Italy is 1.5, as of 2017.

Embarking on a vivid portrait of Italy’s intrinsic allure enticing a global audience, it’s critical to weave in the compelling statistic that ‘The Tourist to resident ratio in Italy is 1.5, as of 2017.’ This numerical gem delineates a vibrant canvas of the immense popularity Italy commands in the global tourism panorama. With more than one tourist per resident, it unravels the tale of Italy’s captivating charm that lures tourists, surpassing its own populace, underscoring the magnificent pull of its cultural heritage, picturesque landscapes, and enigmatic culinary arts. This demographic insight equips blog readers with a visual magnitude of the teeming tourist inrush Italy basks in, thereby substantiating the country’s significance in the global tourism arena.

In 2018, the tourism industry in Italy created 2.05 million jobs directly.

Highlighting the creation of 2.05 million jobs directly by the tourism industry in Italy in 2018, paints a vivid picture of the significant socio-economic impact of this sector. These numbers not only underline the vital role tourism plays in the labor market, sparking employment opportunities, but also anchor the industry as a driving force in Italy’s economy. Consequently, it enables a deeper understanding of the magnitude of the industry’s contribution to the nation’s economic wellbeing, serving as a productive discussion point in assessing Italy’s Tourism Statistics.

In 2019, tourism generated around 232 billion euros in Italy amounting to 13.3% of GDP.

Painting a vivid picture of Italy’s thriving tourism sector, the statistic that tourism generated roughly 232 billion euros in 2019, contributing to 13.3% of the country’s GDP, underscores the fundamental role of this industry in driving Italy’s economic engine. Anchored by iconic landmarks, rich culture and tradition, as well as delectable food and wine, European tourism’s crown jewel holds an economic significance that extends beyond postcards and memories—it pulses in every facet of Italia’s economic life, creating jobs, spurring development, and infusing foreign capital. Therefore, in unraveling the intricacies of Italy’s tourism statistics, one cannot overlook this essential cornerstone.

Italy expects to lose at least 31.6 billion euros in foreign tourist spending in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

In a blog post about Italy Tourism Statistics, it’s hard to overlook a sobering footnote to our narrative: Italy anticipates a deficit of at least 31.6 billion euros from foreign tourism spending in 2020 as a direct result of the COVID-19 pandemic. This staggering figure paints a poignant picture of how the global health crisis has hit Italy’s economy where it truly counts. Tourism, a pillar of economic foundation, has taken a beating, causing ripple effects in hospitality, local businesses, and the maintenance of cultural heritage sites. Furthermore, it poses a challenging question on policy makers and entrepreneurs alike – how to reinvigorate this bedrock of Italy’s economy under such challenging global circumstances.

In Italy, domestic tourists stay on average 3.5 nights, while foreign tourists stay on average 6.4 nights, as per the 2019 data.

Delving into the realm of Italian tourism metrics, the disparity between the average stay duration of domestic and foreign tourists presents a compelling narrative. As per 2019 data, the average stay for Italian tourists within the country was a modest 3.5 nights, while their foreign counterparts extended their sojourn to 6.4 nights on average. This intriguing dichotomy underscores a pivotal dynamic of Italy’s tourism landscape. It unveils the propensity of international tourists to indulge themselves with a more extended Italian holiday, suggesting a deeper engagement with the rich cultural, historical, and gastronomic tapestry of Italy. Moreover, it could uncover a potential opportunity for strategizing tourism services and marketing aimed at elongating the stay of domestic tourists.

Italy had a 2.8% share of international overnight stays at tourist accommodations among EU countries in 2016.

In scrutinizing the Italian tourism landscape through the lens of statistical data, one fact stands out like the Leaning Tower of Pisa in a country gloriously dotted with landmarks. In 2016, Italy commanded a 2.8% share of international overnight stays at tourist accommodations among EU countries. This glimpse into the country’s hospitality sector echoes the allure Italy holds for global travelers. It reveals Italy as a revered tourist destination, attracting a small, yet significant share of tourists who choose to lodge in the EU. Thus, understanding this percentage transcends mere figures—it paints a vivid picture of Italy’s stand in the European tourism market and the power it wields to draw tourists year after year.

The Vatican Museums in Italy welcomed around 6.7 million visitors in 2019.

“An essential gem in highlighting Italy’s dynamic tourism canvas is the commanding statistic of the Vatican Museums which embraced around 6.7 million ardent visitors in 2019. This not only underscores the compelling draw and unparalleled appeal of Rome’s spiritual and cultural heart but also epitomizes Italy’s robust tourism sector, contributing to its economic vitality. It effectively underlines the towering global status and magnetic charisma of Italy’s rich heritage, becoming an invaluable token in understanding the pervasive vigour of the nation’s tourism narrative.”

Italy’s accommodation and food services sectors made up 4.1% of total employment in the country in 2016.

The pulsating heart of Italy’s charm for tourists lies not just in its picturesque landscapes and majestic history, but significantly within its culinary prowess and warm hospitality. The statistic indicating that 4.1% of Italy’s total employment in 2016 stemmed from its accommodation and food service sectors underlines the inherent correlation between Italy’s tourism industry and its labor market. This percentage illuminates the extent to which tourism, encapsulating the allure of Italian cuisine alongside the country’s vast hospitality services, contributes to the overall economy by creating employment opportunities. Thus, a flourishing tourism sector aids in nourishing the economic sustenance of the Italian people themselves.

Conclusion

Based on the statistical analysis, Italy continues to hold a leading position in global tourism. The figures demonstrate a sustained growth in international arrivals, indicating the global appeal of Italy’s rich cultural heritage, picturesque landscapes, gastronomic delights, and historical significance. However, seasonal variation in tourist inflows suggests potential areas for diversification and marketing strategies to facilitate a more even spread of visitors throughout the year. Ultimately, tourism remains a critical pillar of Italy’s economy, contributing significantly to job creation and regional development.

References

0. – https://www.www.istat.it

1. – https://www.www.ceicdata.com

2. – https://www.www.wttc.org

3. – https://www.www.statista.com

4. – https://www.www.bloomberg.com

5. – https://www.www.worlddata.info

FAQs

What is the annual average number of tourists visiting Italy?

Before the COVID-19 pandemic, Italy attracted over 60 million visitors annually. However, the numbers might have varied since then due to travel restrictions.

Which city in Italy attracts the highest number of tourists?

Rome, the capital city of Italy, usually attracts the highest number of tourists due to its historical and cultural significance.

How much revenue did Italy generate from tourism in recent years?

In 2019, before the COVID-19 pandemic, tourism contributed approximately €232 billion to Italy's economy, about 13% of Italy's Gross Domestic Product.

What percentage of tourists in Italy come from outside the European Union?

Before the pandemic, approximately 40% of visitors to Italy came from non-European Union countries.

What are the most visited landmarks in Italy?

The most popular landmark in Italy is the Colosseum in Rome, followed by Venice's canals, and the Uffizi Gallery in Florence.

How we write our statistic reports:

We have not conducted any studies ourselves. Our article provides a summary of all the statistics and studies available at the time of writing. We are solely presenting a summary, not expressing our own opinion. We have collected all statistics within our internal database. In some cases, we use Artificial Intelligence for formulating the statistics. The articles are updated regularly.

See our Editorial Process.

Table of Contents

... Before You Leave, Catch This! 🔥

Your next business insight is just a subscription away. Our newsletter The Week in Data delivers the freshest statistics and trends directly to you. Stay informed, stay ahead—subscribe now.

Sign up for our newsletter and become the navigator of tomorrow's trends. Equip your strategy with unparalleled insights!