Summer Holidays 2021: Italy’s Tourism Industry Optimistic Amid Economic Challenges

The summer holidays are finally here, but the initial data does not look encouraging. Whether it is due to the weather, below-average temperatures, recent elections or high costs in holiday resorts, it appears that tourism this summer has started slowly with a projected 2% decrease compared to last year.

Despite this slow start, the Italian tourism industry remains optimistic, expecting nearly 220 million visitors between June and August. However, some families may have to shorten their holiday period to just a week as rising prices make it difficult for them to afford longer vacations.

According to Sandro Susini, director of the Conflavoro Study Centre, 16 million Italians will go on holiday for a week while nearly 29 million will enjoy longer vacations. The number of people taking weekend trips is also decreasing due to rising costs. The average spending per capita for a week’s holiday is estimated at 615 euros, representing a 22% increase from the previous year. Tourists from abroad are expected to spend around 1,150 euros per week.

There are also regional and age differences in holiday spending. Residents in Northern Italy are willing to spend up to 740 euros while those in the Center only spend 630 euros and those in the South only spend 480 euros. Younger people have a smaller budget while older age groups are prepared to spend more. The price increases are mainly driven by rising costs in accommodation, beach services and transportation.

In light of these price hikes many Italians are choosing to stay in Italy for their holidays instead of going abroad which has reduced trips abroad by 4% compared to the previous year. Foreign destinations are becoming less affordable due to increased ferry and flight costs