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Projected Growth of Italy’s Tourism Sector and Its Implications

Projected Growth of Italy’s Tourism Sector and Its Implications

James Miller, LocalsRide.com
by 
James Miller, LocalsRide.com
4 minutes read
News
August 06, 2025

Italy’s Burgeoning Tourism Sector

Italy’s tourism industry is on the brink of a major milestone, with projections indicating international visitor spending could soar to an impressive €60.4 billion by the year 2025. This upswing is not just a statistical number—it’s a reflection of Italy’s robust appeal as a premier tourist destination, especially as the country prepares to host the World Travel & Tourism Council’s 25th Global Summit in its picturesque capital, Rome.

Economic Impact of Tourism

The anticipated financial gains from tourism are expected to support approximately 3.2 million jobs—an increase of 100,000 from the previous year. In this vein, tourism is poised to contribute €237.4 billion to the overall Italian economy, which represents nearly 11% of the nation’s GDP. Such figures indicate that not only are international visitors flocking to Italy, but they are also significantly bolstering various sectors, including transportation, hospitality, and retail.

Domestic Tourism: A Vital Component

Italy’s domestic tourists are equally impactful, projected to spend about €124.6 billion. In 2024, domestic tourism significantly contributed €228.5 billion to the economy, supporting 3.1 million jobs. The spending breakdown is quite revealing: residents spent €122.6 billion, while international visitors accounted for €55.2 billion—showcasing the dynamic interplay between homegrown travelers and foreign tourists.

Government Initiatives to Promote Growth

The Italian government’s commitment to tourism is crystal clear. Since 2021, a dedicated Ministry of Tourism has focused on not just promoting major attractions, but also highlighting lesser-known destinations. Innovations in sustainability and skills development have been prioritized to enhance the travel experience, aiming to diversify what Italy has to offer beyond its famous landmarks.

Future Projections for Tourism

Looking ahead to 2035, the World Travel & Tourism Council forecasts that Italy’s tourism sector will contribute €282.6 billion to the economy, marking 12.2% of GDP alongside supporting 3.7 million jobs. Moreover, international spending is expected to climb further to €78 billion, with domestic spending projected at €142.5 billion. It’s a promising outlook that highlights Italy’s potency in attracting visitors now and into the foreseeable future.

Opportunities for Small and Medium Enterprises

This promising growth offers abundant opportunities for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The WTTC’s Together in Travel platform is an exemplary initiative facilitating insights into how SMEs can benefit from the expanding tourism economy.

Upcoming Global Tourism Summit in Rome

A significant event on the calendar is the WTTC’s 25th Global Summit to be held in Rome from September 28 to 30, 2025. This gathering will attract top global tourism leaders, including ministers and CEOs, to discuss the future directions of the industry and challenges ahead. The collaborative efforts of the Ministry of Tourism, the Italian National Tourist Board (ENIT), and local government underscore the event’s importance.

Summing Up the Key Insights

Italy’s tourism sector stands as a testament to resilience and growth, driven by a potent combination of government initiatives, vibrant domestic tourism, and a steadily growing international market. However, even the best insights and reviews can’t fully substitute for the unique experiences that each traveler will encounter.

With LocalsRide, travelers can easily book rides from verified providers at competitive prices. The service offers transparency and a variety of vehicle options, ensuring a smooth experience while traveling throughout Italy. This is especially advantageous when navigating from one captivating destination to another, or even just getting from the airport to the city center.

Planning your next trip shouldn’t be a hassle. Whether it’s for that essential transfer, an engaging trip, or simple deliveries, LocalsRide ensures a global, user-friendly solution tailored to your needs. With comprehensive vehicle choices, you can find the best fit for your travel requirements. Each ride is a chance to explore, allowing you to focus on enjoying your journey rather than worrying about logistics. For the best experience, remember to book your ride with LocalsRide.com today!