Tourism in Venice and in Italy: 2023 year of record

2023 was a record year for tourism. According to estimates by the Florence Tourist Studies Center for Assoturismo Confesercenti, the total number of presences in accommodation facilities should reach 445.3 million, recording a significant increase of 8.1% compared to the previous year. This represents positive news, since for the first time it also exceeds the data of 2019, when tourist presences were 436.7 million.

The significant increase in foreign tourists was a determining factor in overtaking 2019, with foreign presences marking a notable +13.7% compared to 2022, reaching over 228.5 million. On the contrary, the Italian market recorded more modest growth, +2.8% compared to the previous year, with a total of 216.8 million overnight stays.

Analyzing the movement of guests in hotel facilities, a growth of +9.3% is estimated, with attendance standing at 276.2 million. In the non-hotel sector, the expected growth is +6.1%, with 169.1 million overnight stays. The regions of the South and the Islands closed the year with more modest growth, +4.4%, while the North West (+11.7%) and the Center (+10.4%) exceeded the national average by more than 2 percentage points.

Among the most popular structures in 2023, those in cities/art centers (+11.4%) and in the mountains (+11.1%) stand out. Excellent results also emerge for structures in rural/hilly areas (+10.3%) and spa areas (+10.2%). Lake locations (+9.6%) and “other interest” locations (+9%) also recorded positive increases. However, over the course of the year, the seaside sector showed signs of slowing down.

Looking to the future, hospitality businesses’ forecasts for the first quarter of 2024 present some elements of uncertainty. 59.6% of those interviewed expect a first part of the year characterized by a stable trend, unlike the first quarter of 2023, which recorded an average growth in demand of +30%. Seaside locations and rural and hilly areas show greater concern, while optimism shines through from businesses in cities and art centers.

Vittorio Messina, President of Assoturismo Confesercenti, underlines the resilience of the tourism sector, but warns of the importance of continuing to support it. Messina declares: “Tourism once again demonstrates its ability to be a driving sector for the country’s economy, but it is necessary to continue to support it, considering the changing economic context and the uncertainties linked to the erosion of purchasing power and to the increase in financial costs.”