Tourism 2026: rising flows and a longer season

Published on 14/05/2026, Demoskopika's forecasts, reported in advance by ANSA, outline a positive year for Italy's tourism sector, amid uncertainties over energy prices and inflation.

• Projected arrivals: 141.2 million (+2.1% vs 2025)
• Projected overnight stays: 478.6 million (+0.4%)
• Domestic travel: about 64.8 million Italians generating over 213 million nights
• Incoming tourists: more than 76 million, accounting for over 55% of stays
• Estimated tourism spending: €132.7 billion (+4.0%)
• Inflation (Istat preliminary): 2.4% for 2026; non-regulated energy products: +7.9%
• Seasonality index ("StagioMetro"): 106.0; summer share 56.9%, shoulder seasons (Mar-May, Oct-Nov) 29.4%

Analysts stress the importance of policies to improve mobility, promote travel in off-peak periods and enhance access to less crowded destinations. The Ministry of Tourism launched the promotional campaign "Welcome to the Dream, Welcome to Italia", with attention to Calabria, Sardinia and Sicily.

Outlook: forecasts point to sustained sector growth, while noting that rising energy costs and inflation could affect travel costs and consumer spending.