Via Montepulciano, 5 20124 - Milan T: 02 395 24 922
MEDIA PARTNER
Press:
Tipolitografia Federici s r l Via Adda, 3 - 05100 Terni
Hidden Italy
t a l i b s o l u t e l y T r a v e l T a l k , N e w s & E x p e r i e n c e s
Italy’s hidden dimensions
Italy is a country full of unknown and beautiful places that are worth visiting and remembering. We start from here with this new edition of ItaliAbsolutely, revealing other dimensions, sharpening the visitor's gaze, and expanding their vision. Alongside these themes, our magazine tackles the fundamental concept of sustainability, and therefore of travelling by train And it also analyses the role of airports, the gateways to our country. Then there are honeymoons and other features that focus on knowing Italy and its beauty.
Storytelling Italy. Why paper still matters
In a world where we are endlessly scrolling it’s easy to miss the bigger picture. Take Italy, which is so often reduced to a reel of faded postcards, or a loop of the expected.
What Italy needs is informed storytelling And paper still matters to stories So we are bringing you this print magazine which looks at how travel in Italy is transforming from ticking boxes to finding meaning
Distributed to international buyers at BIT Milan and ITB Berlin, the magazine brings you expert perspectives and industry insights into what is reshaping Italian tourism today. We explore unexpected Italy, regional identities hear the voices of stakeholders, and focus on projects and investments that are reimagining destinations And the conversation doesn’t stop on the last page, as the magazine connects to our editorial ecosystem with the daily industry intelligence on our ItaliAbsolutely portal which allows those who design and sell Italy to stay ahead of the game. If this magazine is in your bag at a fair, in an airport lounge, or with you back home, it’s because you already know Italy has more than one story to tell And you know they’re worth carrying
Giuseppe Aloe editor in chief
Pamela McCourt Francescone Executive Editor
Frasassi, Italy’s underground wonder
Alive in every season
In the heart of the Marche region, the Grotte di Frasassi caves are one of Italy’s most extraordinary natural attractions, and they refuse to be confined to a single season. With visitor numbers remaining consistently strong in recent years, Frasassi has successfully secured year-round
Frasassi is a complete destination where nature, culture and innovation blend
tourism, driven by a long-term vision shared by their municipality of Genga and the site’s management
The cave system is a guided underground route of some 1 5 kilometres that leads visitors through vast cathedral-like chambers sculpted by millions of years of geological history. Stalactites
and stalagmites transform a simple visit into an immersive journey into the depths of the Earth, and the route is designed for all ages, making Frasassi an accessible destination for families, couples and curious travellers alike
For those seeking something more adventurous, there are guided speleological experiences for all level of adventurer Wearing a helmet, boots and protective gear, visitors explore lesser-known sections of the caves accompanied by expert guides to discover even more of this underground world And the surrounding area is just as fascinating with the Gola della Rossa e di Frasassi nature park which is rich in biodiversity and home to golden eagles, wolves and peregrine falcons
Cultural and spiritual landmarks include the dramatic Tempio del Valadier temple, the Santa Maria Infra Saxa Heritage and the Romanesque Abbey of San Vittore alle Chiuse which is awaiting UNESCO recognition. Music and culture further add to Frasassi’s appeal
The caves regularly host concerts and, since 2025, have partnered with Musicultura, supporting artistic residencies and musical productions Frasassi is a complete destination where nature, culture and innovation blend, offering endless experiences to delight visitors of all ages.
Pamela McCourt Francescone
Cultural and spiritual landmarks
l
l The Santa Maria Infra Saxa Heritage
l The romanesque Abbey of San Vittore alle Chiuse which is awaiting UNESCO recognition Music in the caves
The caves regularly host concerts and, since 2025, have partnered with Musicultura, supporting artistic residencies and musical productions
On track in 2026. Trenord’s plans and outlook for Lombardy
This year
Trenord is focusing on mobility, sustainability and regional development, with new rail connections and involvement in major events for a form of tourism that is increasingly rail oriented Innovations
include the recently inaugurated rail link between Malpensa and Gallarate which boosts Lombardy’s international accessibility, a development that is proving to be a key lever both for tourism and local communities, says Leonardo Cesarini, Trenord’s commercial director
«Trains are becoming increasingly popular for leisure travel. Last year we exceeded pre-Covid levels by 30%. On Saturdays around 500,000 passengers travel by train, and on public holidays, almost 400,000,- says Cesarini. -These are record numbers that reflect a struc-
The tempio del Valadier temple
Travel tips
The island of Ponza
Authentically Italian
The island of Ponza, in the Tyrrhenian Sea just off the coast of Lazio, is the largest of the Pontine Islands and one of those places Italians proudly call autentica Known for its crystal-clear waters, steep cliffs plunging into the sea and natural coves, Ponza captivates at first sight, yet it is the
“ Ponza should be seen as a journey to an unspoiled place”
Francesco Ambrosini
island’s atmosphere that is its true draw.
Fishing boats still leave the harbour each morning, the pace of life is unhurried, and the lack of large-scale development has preserved a strong sense of community Since taking office, Mayor Francesco Ambrosini has
Francesco Ambrosini Mayor of Ponza
made environmental protection central to his vision «We have given the highest priority to safeguarding the island’s natural riches,» he says, underlining the importance of protecting what makes Ponza unique. Visitors quickly discover that Ponza is best explored from the sea Boat trips reveal hidden grottos, dramatic rock formations and secluded beaches accessible only by water On land, walking paths lead to panoramic viewpoints, while the harbour is the perfect place to linger over an espresso or a glass of chilled wine and watch island life unfold. Snorkelling, swimming and slow afternoons on the beach are all popular with visitors. The local cuisine includes octopus salads, lentils from nearby Ventotene and pasta dishes with anchovies, capers and wild herbs, and is best enjoyed in small family-run trattorie
«Ponza should not be seen as a quick holiday,» Ambrosini explains, «but as a journey to an unspoiled place » Ferry schedules have been adapted to encourage longer stays, even outside the summer months With growing interest from foreign travellers, from the faithful Roman holidaymakers who flock there every summer, and a focus on sustainable tourism, Ponza extends a warm welcome to visitors while protecting its nature, its culture and its undeniable charm.
SNAV: Record growth in 2025 and new strategies for maritime tourism in 2026
Transit ship passengers create value for both maritime operators and the cities they call at, and 2025 proved to be a landmark year for passenger traffic, confirming the tourism growth trend Extending operations in the Adriatic The quality of service, scheduling and the ever-increasing market share chosen by SNAV Cruise Ferries on the Ancona-Split route has prompted the Neapolitan company to extend its operating period in the Adriatic this year with a wider range of departures from April to October 2026
SNAV has allocated its ships to all the main destinations such as Ischia, Procida, Sorrento, Capri, Positano, Vulcano, Lipari, Salina, Stromboli, Panarea, Ponza and Ventotene and, of course, also to Croatia
The new digital booking services have been very well received, enhancing visibility and closer engagement with passengers and travel agencies, supported by collaboration between agencies and tour operators to deliver complete, personalized travel packages In addition, the enhanced partnership with the Italo railway company has made it possible to reduce the distance between the mainland and the islands by offering passengers the possibility of purchasing a single ticket, and travel with complete peace of mind
tural change This year we want to consolidate the trend by identifying new ways to enhance it. For example with Gite in treno (Train Trips) we combine travel with tourist experiences in Lombardy and beyond, and with the Community programme we reward sustainable choices By this I mean that anyone choosing to travel by train can accumulate green points
based on the CO₂ that is saved, making sustainability a concrete value even for leisure travel.»
Concerning the MilanCortina Olympics and Paralympics, Cesarini says that as a Regional Transport Sponsor of Milan Cortina 2026 Trenord will be adding an extra daily 120 journeys
«The focus will be on connections between Milan and
Valtellina, night trains in Milan and services to Malpensa In addition to rail services we have planned special assistance services for visitors To achieve all this we have worked closely with the local area, so as to live up to the standards of this global event »
Enzo
Scudieri
In 2026 the big news for tourists regards experiential tours Following the success of packages to Ponza, Palmarola and Procida, SNAV will launch Escursioni Experience (Excursion Experiences) to Capri, Ischia, Sorrento and Positano These individual tours will combine maritime transport with exclusive visits and experiences in the area.
SNAV continues to invest in environmental sustainability, innovating its fleet with increasingly efficient and sustainable fast vessels
Club del Sole 2025:
+12% growth and 3.5 million guest nights
Club del Sole introduced four dedicated offer clusters: Boutique Resort, Family Resort, Family Collection, and Easy
Camping Village
Club del Sole closed the 2025 season with strong financial and operational results, confirming the success of its open-air hospitality model The Group recorded a 12% year-on-year increase in revenue and more than 3 5 million guest nights, consolidating its leadership in the Italian open-air tourism segment
In 2025 the continued rollout of the “Full Life Holidays” model positioned Club del Sole between traditional hotels and conventional camping by combining independent accommodation, premium services, and nature-based locations Guests find selfcontained lodges, water parks, destination dining, equipped beaches, sports and entertainment facilities, and curated experiences designed to extend the length of stay and increase the spend
International markets accounted for 45% of total guest nights which were particularly strong from Germany (+16%), Switzerland (+22%), Austria (+11%), Poland (+20%), and the Netherlands (+69%), while domestic
demand remained stable
Club del Sole introduced four dedicated offer clusters: Boutique Resort, Family Resort, Family Collection, and Easy Camping Village, for the Boutique Resort and Family Resort clusters Approximately 40% of guests were new to the open-air segment, highlighting the Group’s success in attracting customers traditionally associated with hotel accommodation Growth was also driven by pet-friendly travel which was up 22% year-on-year following the full rollout of the Family Dog Friendly programme across all the Group’s properties
In 2025 the Group made two new acquisitions in Tuscany and Lake Garda, strengthening its presence in two of Italy’s prime leisure destinations The focus then shifted to Trentino-Alto Adige, where the Val di Fiemme Easy Camping Village opened for its first winter season from December 2025 to February 2026, marking Club del Sole’s entry into mountain and snow tourism
Travel Friends. Italian know-how for international markets
Travel Friends is one of the most dynamic players in the B2B tourism sector, thanks to a model that combines advanced technology, local expertise and a deep understanding of the needs of international markets
Founded as a DMC specialized in Italy, the company has gradually expanded its market presence while maintaining a strong identity, and today it is a B2B core business that encompasses worldwide services, with specific expertise in Italian products.
Travel Friends offers over 2 5 million properties worldwide, integrated through direct contracts, channel managers and global suppliers, guaranteeing availability, competitive rates and a diversified product range of hotels, dynamic packages, tours, experiences, activities, ticketing and tailormade services One of its strengths is its presence on the Italian market, with over
3,000 hotels contracted directly on favourable terms
This legacy has been built up over twenty years and consolidated through relationships with leading accommodation providers. Thanks to XML connections with the main technology hubs, partners can access a flexible, scalable system that can be easily integrated via API In addition to technology, Travel Friends offers reliable assistance and continuous support to foster long-lasting collaborations
Travel Friends is a reliable ally for international tourism professionals, providing innovation, experience and a deep knowledge of Italy It is a structured partner that efficiently and competitively connects the international market demand with Italian businesses.
For information: www.travel-friends.it Contacts. Tel. +39 0444.1157500 booking@travel-friends it | tenaglia@travel-friends it
Outstanding value
Step into Arcadia ItaliAbsolutely’s B2B booking platform
a n d A r c a d i a T o u r Operator continues to gain momentum, offering international travel agents access to a dedicated B2B platform with an attractive 12% commission on every confirmed booking ItaliAbsolutely.com goes beyond informing, inspiring, and training travel professionals around the world The platform now also provides direct access to a curated selection of premium stays and travel experiences from leading Italian tourism operators,
all available through Arcadia, a streamlined and efficient B2B marketplace Arcadia Tour Operator specializes in high-end travel solutions, boasting a portfolio of over 3,000 carefully selected hotels and tourism properties across Italy The company collaborates with major Italian and international tour operators, delivering tailor-made services nationwide for group travel, senior tourism, events, sports tournaments, and organized itineraries «With the launch of this B2B marketplace, we can offer our readers some-
thing more by creating an everstronger connection between international demand and Italian supply. Our key strength lies in 38 years of direct, hands-on knowledge of the main players in the Italian tourism sector,» explains Daniela Battaglioni, CEO of ItaliAbsolutely.
«Arcadia’s expertise is now fully accessible through the ItaliAbsolutely.com portal, delivering outstanding value across Italyfocused travel products,» adds Matteo Mambelli, CEO of Arcadia Tour Operator «This initiative marks a significant evolution of our business, increasingly driven by collaborations and partnerships that expand our market reach And, naturally, all products can be purchased online with a highly competitive commission » Discover the B2B marketplace in the Travel Deals section at ItaliAbsolutely.com.
Daniela Battaglioni
Matteo Mambelli
TH Group
D E B E L L I N I
by Isabella Cattoni
The path is set and the objective is clear: to remain an Italian group that preserves its DNA, even as turnover and margins grow significantly Graziano Debellini, president of TH Group raises the bar and sets the target of €400 million, with €40 million in EBITDA, by 2030
Chairman, what challenges await the TH Group and what are its future goals?
«We invested in 2025, laying the foundations for new development Several goals have been identified Foremost among these is the awareness that we can play a leading role in the mountains, an area we have moved into completing our product range and the competitiveness of our offer With the reopening of the TH Borca di Cadore - Parc Hotel Des Dolomites, we have added another piece to the mosaic, completing an offering that now spans all seasons by seamlessly integrating sea and mountain experiences » The art cities are a second driver of development «We started with Assisi, Rome and Peschiera, all of which are prestigious locations Without any pretensions of competing with the big brands’ hotels in cities and smaller towns, our aim is to develop a new product that is distinctly experiential » And then the seaside, «which is already an important part of TH Group. It currently accounts for about 20% of our turnover, but we would like to
expand it by selecting the most sought-after locations » And important news is coming soon, paving the way for «healthy and profitable growth, allowing us to focus on winning products »
How was 2025?
“ We invested in 2025, laying the foundations for new development. Several goals have been identified”
Graziano Debellini
«We are closing 2025 with a turnover of close to €300 million. Beyond the increase in numbers, we have grown in reputation, brand awareness and customer satisfaction We have restructured all areas of the group to face 2026 with determination » A determination that has valuable allies in dynamic pricing and flexibility of supply: «Thanks to dynamic pricing we are able to optimize occupancy and safeguard a more orderly and strategic growth The flexibility of the length of stay, which is no longer only the traditional seven nights, allows us to reach the maximum number of customers » As the brand approaches its 50th anniversary, Debellini takes stock of a positive balance sheet
«Thanks to partners like CDP Equity and ISA we have been able to grow while maintaining our DNA unchanged A DNA that has human capital and growth through training at its core » In this respect «even funds should be more cautious and patient, without always aiming for numbers at all costs »
From from your privileged standpoint, what is the outlook for the coming years? What has been done and what still needs to be improved?
l The target of the G oup, with €40 million in EBITDA, by 2030
Goals identified
THE MOUNTAINS
Play a leading role in the mountains
ART CITIES
The art cities are a second driver of development, our aim is to develop a new product that is distinctly experiential
SEASIDE
Expand it by selecting the most sought-after locations
«The hotel industry in Italy should function like a well-conducted orchestra, something that is challenging to achieve for many reasons First of all, the extreme fragmentation of the offer, with around 34,000 active hotels, makes collaboration difficult In this regard, however, it should be noted that there are already some positive examples, such as Trentino Alto Adige, which has managed to build a system that works in a similar way to that of the large hotel chains. Unfortunately, tourism is still generally considered a “second-class” sector, despite being one of the pillars that drives our economy »
fidence?
“ It is essential to join forces and view with greater esteem, attention and collaboration a sector that is fundamental to our economy”
Graziano Debellini
What is your recipe for facing the challenges of the future with con-
«In the post-Covid era the hotel industry with all its components has become a sort of “medical product,” a necessary asset for travellers, operators in the sector and local areas The potential for development and growth has expanded considerably, but it is necessary to define one’s identity and invest in innovation and training to help create an increasingly broad and shared project It is essential to join forces and view with greater esteem, attention and collaboration a sector that is fundamental to our economy, and that expresses great potential for development in the country as a whole, contributing to sustainable, long-term economic growth in Italy »
What’s the story
The adventure of Graziano Debellini, originally from Polesine, began in 1977 in a refuge at the foot of the Adamello taken over by a group of friends and today is close to the halfway point of 50 years of operation. Since then, the road travelled has been long and has led to the creation of a group which, in addition to TH Resorts, also includes Markando and Baobab, active in tour operating. A firepower that occupies a leading position in the Italian hospitality segment in the mountains and is preparing to break through the ceiling of 400 million euros in group turnover in 2030
TH Resorts enters in FTO
2026 marks the entry of TH Resorts into FTO And Graziano Debellini joins the Federation’s council. «Being a member of FTOConfcommercio underscores our deep belief that Italian tourism urgently needs strong, qualified representation capable of integrating the diverse skills of the supply chain.
Joining FTO for us means actively participating in a network of professionals, sharing values and strategies, and establishing a constant dialogue with institutions to concretely contribute to the growth and competitiveness of organized tourism.
We are proud to be able to bring our experience to the Federation, ready to face together the future challenges of an increasingly strategic sector for Italy.»
TH Borca di CadoreParc Hotel Des Dolomites
Come with us and explore Hidden Italy
by Pamela McCourt Francescone
Away from places everyone knows there is another Italy, hidden, captivating, and deeply authentic. This is an Italy that invites you to slow down, look closer, and enjoy a rhythm of life that is quiet and uncrowded
An Italy that is an invitation to travel to places not as a visitor passing through, but as a guest being welcomed in. So, step off the map, wander down quieter roads, and explore the Italy locals know and love
Gravina Puglia’s dramatic town carved in stone
Gravina is a striking old town in northern Puglia, about 25 kilometres from Matera and an hour from Bari Carved along a deep ravine (gravina in Italian) that gives it a dramatic and timeless appeal, visitors are drawn by the many rock-cut churches and cave dwellings dating back to the early Middle Ages The Church of San Michele delle Grotte embedded into the
canyon walls is one popular example and strolling through the old town you find Romanesque churches, noble palazzi, underground tunnels, and panoramic viewpoints The most instagrammable spot is the Ponte Acquedotto, a 17th-century bridge spanning the ravine connecting ancient caves that were once inhabited by the townspeople
UNESCO SITE: Castel del Monte
Nature lovers will delight in the surrounding Alta Murgia area which has many walking trails, and also in the UNESCO Castel del Monte castle, some 30 kilometres away and famous for its perfect octagonal symmetry
Acquaviva’s red onions and Capocollo from Martina Franca
The simple yet tasty cuisine in and around Gravina is based on pastoral traditions and features handmade orecchiette pasta, lamb, and two of the region’s most famous products: the red onions of Acquaviva (a mere 25 kilometres away) and the Capocollo cured pork neck from Martina Franca
Built in the 13th century by Emperor Frederick II its striking form and panoramic views make it one of the region’s most iconic landmarks
Acquaviva’s red onions, which are sweet, juicy, nd digestile are eaten raw, baked, n focacce rves, -shaped marinated with wine, herbs, and spices and then lightly smoked is a delicious appetizer.
Roccalvecce and Viterbo
fairy-tale murals and medieval rituals
Roccalvecce, a tiny town less than a hundred kilometres north of Rome, is often called “Il Paese delle Fiabe,” the fairy-tale village It is a charming open-air gallery with walls, doorways, staircases and entire houses covered with murals of Pinocchio, Alice in Wonderland, Little Red Riding Hood, and even well-loved figures closer to our times like Mary Poppins On a good highway and close enough for a day trip from the Eternal City, it is yet distant enough to discover and delight in another rhythm of life, and is a perfect escape for families, romantics and lovers of slow tourism Nearby there are many attractions like volcanic Lake
Bolsena, Etruscan necropolises, thermal springs and many walking and trekking trails in the Monte Cimino mountain range. Nature here is just as significant as art and ritual, and the surrounding Apennine foothills host sections of the Ancient and Primeval Beech Forests of the Carpathians and Other Regions of Europe, a transnational UNESCO site that includes these northern Lazio beech forests Also worth a visit are Viterbo’s Palazzo dei Papi where many papal conclaves have been held down the centuries, and San Pellegrino which is the best-preserved medieval district in Italy, unchanged since the 13th century.
UNESCO CULTURAL HERITAGE: “Macchina di Santa Rosa”
Some 15-minutes away there is the historic hilltop town of Viterbo, overlooking the Tuscia landscape and known as the City of the Popes. Each September it becomes the stage for the “Macchina di Santa Rosa,” an extraordinary nocturnal procession in which a towering illuminated structure over 30 meters high is carried on the shoulders of a hundred men through the
Acquacotta and Porchetta
Viterbo is also famous for its Acquacotta, a soup of vegetables, stale bread, and olive oil, while slow-roated, herb-stuffed Porchetta pork is another local obsession, while a Porchettata lunch or dinner is a social ritual, red outdoors with crusty bread and local red wine
Sicily’s Mount Etna:
fire, trails, wine, and sea
Set on the north-eastern slope of Europe’s most powerful volcano, the town of Linguaglossa is one of the most popular gateways to Mount Etna It lies just 45 kilometres from Sicily’s second city Catania, which has an international airport and is roughly a one-hour drive away through lava flows, vineyards, and chestnut forests Life in this northeastern part of Sicily has always revolved around the volcano - a UNESCO World Heritage site since 2013 - which defines the local nature, culture, and cuisine.
Before heading out on the mountain it is a good idea to drop into one of the two local volcanological museums: the ethnographic Museo dell’Etna which is part of the local Cultural Centre in the little town of Linguaglossa, or the other, more focused volcanic museum in the town of Viagrande. With models,
lava samples, historical documents, and multimedia displays this gives a good overview of Mount Etna’s history and the delicate balance between everyday life and volcanic activity. Reservations are recommended for both museums, especially for groups
Another of the many pleasures of this area is its proximity to the sea In less than 40 minutes you can reach the Ionian coast near Riposto, Giardini Naxos, or Taormina, where swimming and seaside relaxation perfectly complement volcanic trekking
UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE:
Mount Etna
The star attraction of the area is, of course, Mount Etna itself, the tallest active volcano in Europe. Linguaglossa provides access to the northern Etna area, especially Piano Provenzana, a popular starting point for hikes It is also possible to follow the Monti Sartorius trail, an easy circular route crossing extinct craters and birch forests, or choose the longer paths that cross recent
Food without fuss, wine with soul
Food is another highlight. Local specialties include Salsiccia di Ceppo, a traditional lightly smoked pork sausage seasoned with herbs Also worth trying are the Christmas Cuddureddi which are fried pastries, typically filled with cooked grape must or fig preserves, linking Etna’s sweets to . And speane Etna’s olcanic soils produce some of Sicily’s most celebrated labels: elereds and crisp whites that reflect altitude, ash, and fire.
lava fields. For panoramic views the Crateri Silvestri and other accessible viewpoints allow visitors to admire vast lava valleys, smoking cones, and, on clear days, the coastline Conditions can change very fast on this majestic volcano so reaching the summit area requires certified guides, and wandering off alone is strongly discouraged, even for seasoned adventurers.
Follina, Refrontolo, radicchio and Veneto’s
Prosecco
Hills
In the Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco Hills, over an hour by car from Venice, the village of Follina is famous for its medieval monastic complex Stone houses line the narrow streets of the village, and at its heart stands the Abbey of Santa Maria di Follina Founded by Cistercian monks in the 12th century, the complex is a harmonious example of human endeavour and a perfect example of how a religious order became the beating heart of a small community Visitors will discover Follina’s small hotels and family-run historic villa accommodation as well as local restaurants serving roast and cured meats, local cheeses and the prized Prosecco wine Refrontolo, a short drive from Follina, a village surrounded by vineyards and chestnut woods, has a famous landmark, the
Molinetto della Croda This 17thcentury watermill against a cliff and fed by a clear stream, was once essential to the area’s agricultural economy, and today is one of the most photographed beauty spots in the Veneto region There are several trails connecting Refontolo to the surrounding hills, offering panoramic views across vine-covered slopes toward Valdobbiadene and also many family-run wineries that welcome visitors
UNESCO LANDSCAPE: Valdobbiadene Prosecco
The Conegliano
Valdobbiadene Prosecco
Hills are a UNESCO-listed cultural landscape shaped by human perseverance as much as by nature Dramatically steep, and often inaccessible to machinery, their narrow terraces known as ciglioni allow vines to
The noble Radicchio
No description of this area would be complete without mentioning radicchio, the noble red leafy vegetable, a member of the chicory family, that reigns on Italy’s winter tables. Local radicchio, especially the prized varieties from the Treviso area, has a slightly bitter, elegant flavor and a crisp texture It can ced raw and ed simply h olive oil d salt, allowing its freshness to shine, or slowly griled until the tterness sofo sweetness.
survive on inclines that can exceed 45 degrees Grape growing here is almost entirely manual, and the Valdobbiadene Prosecco, which is prized for its elegance, freshness, and aromatic clarity, is one of Italy’s most celebrated sparkling wines and is exported worldwide
“Risotto al Radicchio” is a classic, the leaves melting into the rice, tinting it rose-red and adding depth without heaviness Radicchio, which also appears in stuffed pasta, paired with local cheeses, or is gently sautéed to accompany roasted meats, teaches an essential lesson of Italian cooking: when handled with TLC bitterness can give way to harmony.
ItaliAbsolutely’s 2025 fam
by Pamela McCourt Francescone
Among the many international a c t i v i t i e s o r g a n i z e d b y I t a l i A b s o l u t e l y l a s t y e a r , highlights included a series of webinars focused on Sicily and the Mount Etna area, and fam trips that brought international buyers to the Emilia-Romagna and Marche regions, Trapani and Palermo With the support of local administrators and transport, hospitality and tourism stakeholders, our aim was not simply to showcase Italy, but to give these global travel specialists the chance to discover the Italy that lies beneath the surface: the Italy of regional character and authentic places, where lifestyle is the ultimate luxury.
Many of the operators we invited believed they already knew «all about Italy,» but the curated itineraries we organized, working with local stakeholder partners, instead revealed to them how much about selling Italy they still had to learn What they experienced first-hand on these fam trips reshaped their perception of Italy, and they returned home not with brochures and checklists, but bursting with new ideas for packaging and selling the country as a living, multi-layered experience
ce of being able to put together a complete package: «I hope to encourage more people by offering a complete tour package, with meals, transfers, and more.»
Experiential Italy, sold with confidence
What they experienced first-hand on these fam trips reshaped their perception of Italy
Netherlands-based buyer Brigitte Cloostermans said the Emilia Romagna and Marche fam trip reinforced her idea of Italy as an experiential destination «La Dolce Vita lifestyle programmes combining culture, music, wine tastings and unforgettable long-table settings on beaches, vineyards and in olive groves are the kinds of experiences that are difficult to communicate without having experienced them » Her clients are increasingly requesting «short, two to four day corporate and celebration trips» in destinations such as Verona, Gubbio, Arezzo, Cortona, Bolzano, Turin and Bergamo The challenge, she says, lies in sourcing «charming, non-chain boutique accommodation for groups of up to 30,» adding that Italy offers very competitive pricing «considering the uniqueness and emotional value of the experiences »
“ I hope to encourage more people by offering
a complete tour package
, with meals, transfers, and more” Amy Suits
Seeing Italy with new eyes
Amy Suits, an independent contractor with Integrity Destinations at Yaya’s Travel Company (USA), who joined the October Emilia Romagna and Marche fam trip said that while Italy has not yet featured prominently in her bookings, seeing destinations firsthand opened up new prospects for her With clientele increasingly seeking “adventurous travel in more unique locations,” particularly hiking and biking in wine regions and hillside landscapes, these are now experiences she feels more confident recommending. Amy pointed to the importan-
Custom-made trips and a range of budgets
From Canada, Denise Stahl, owner of Wind Waves and Wands Vacations, who we hosted on the Emilia Romagna and Marche fam trip said demand remains strong for «Rome, Venice and the Amalfi Coast,» as well as Mediterranean cruises with pre-cruise stays, and that her clients are increasingly asking for «day trips such as visits to the Ferrari Factory or custommade trips to off-the-beaten-path places » Armenia-based buyer Armine Asatryan said the ItaliAbsolutely Emilia Romagna and Marche fam trip gave her focus on
“ Italy offers very competitive pricing considering the uniqueness and emotional value of the experiences”
Brigitte Cloostermans
«curated boutique hotels and immersive private and smallgroup tours.» Her clients, she says, are increasingly interested in «lesser-known Italian cities and regions beyond the classic mustsee destinations » Her confidence in Italy’s diversity remains strong: «Travelers can always find suitable accommodation and experiences across a wide range of budgets «
Italy’s unique food culture, lifestyle and authenticity
From Norway, Stine Elvebakk Wettergreen, who joined us on the itinerary in Palermo, says she is seeing strongest demand from «friends and multigeneration families who want to experience the Italian way of life with private chefs, cooking classes and active holidays like biking and trekking » The ItaliAbsolutely experience deepened her appreciation for southern regions like «Sicily, Puglia and Calabria despite the limited seasonal direct flights from Norway to Italy» and, despite the higher costs, she says her clients still choose Italy for its «unique food culture, lifestyle and authenticity »
The destinations they experienced has put them in a position to sell Italy differently and more effectively
Gökhan Korkmaz his two visits, to Trapani and Palermo, reshaped his product strategy. With direct flights from Istanbul to Palermo and Catania, Sicily has become central to the products he offers his clients in Turkey, the USA and Australia. Gökhan’s clients seek «culture-rich, less commercialized Mediterranean experiences» preferring small-group tours, boutique hotels, baroque towns, Mount Etna excursions and authentic culinary encounters » Sicily, he explained, works «as a cultural extension to Turkey,» thanks to both country’s shared Greek, Roman, Byzantine, Arab and Ottoman heritage
Regarding pricing he notes, «Sicily remains more competitively priced compared to mainland Italy while still delivering a premium cultural experience »
Italy’s lifestyle is the ultimate luxury
“ My
clients are increasingly interested in lesserknown Italian cities and regions”
Armine Asatryan
“ My
Sicily was a revelation Few destinations benefited more from our fam trip experiences than Sicily For Turkish buyer
The buyers all agreed that the destinations they had experienced, combined with the invaluable intelligence shared by local stakeholders, has put them in a position to sell Italy differently and more effectively On the ItaliAbsolutely fam trips, they said, they discovered an Italy where lifestyle is the ultimate luxury, authenticity is the defining strength, and the emotional value consistently outweighs price
clients still choose Italy for its unique food culture, lifestyle and authenticity”
Stine
Elvebakk
Wettergreen “
My clients seek culture-rich, less commercialized Mediterranean experiences”
Gökhan Korkmaz
ARENAWAYS
This brand of Longitude Holding Srl, founded in 2021 by a pool of investors with 30 years of experience in the sector, in close synergy with the Piedmont Region and Rete Ferroviaria Italiana, has reopened the C u n e o – S a l u z z o –Savigliano line after 13 years. The service is aimed at residents and at enhancing the cultural heritage of authentic artistic gems in Cuneo’s valleys The company also offers Snow Trains from Turin to Limone Piemonte, with train + shuttle and ski pass options, which are likely to resu-
In the future Arenaways plans to reactivate other lines in Piedmont and Italy
me next season In the fu Arenaways plans to reactiv other lines Piedmont and I with spe departures events such as the Saluzzo Antiques Fair, the Cuneo Bike Festival and the Stracôni di Cuneo The company also creates exclusive itineraries for this area whch is rich in sporting and cultural attractions
2021
l Year of foundation by a pool of investors with 30 years of experience in the sector
For information: www arenaways it
Offer
l Snow Trains from Turin to Limone Piemonte, with train + shuttle and ski pass options, which are likely to resume next season
ITALY BY
from local lines to luxury trains
Sustainable tourism in Italy is increasingly focusing on rail travel, with a 4% growth in recent years. In 2025, the Jubilee Year, the trend, albeit not without its challenges, made the train the star of major events, as well as an original extension of classic stays, half-day themed trips, and leisurely rail cruises. In this article we look at some of Italy’s littleknown railway lines that offer unique travel experiences.
by Feder ica De Luca
CENTOVALLI – VIGEZZINA
The Centovalli Railway, or Vigezzina, connects Domodossola to Locarno in Switzerland through the charming Valle dei Pittori (Valley of Painters), along the slopes of the Val Grande National Park, one of the most important wilderness areas in Europe The 52 kilometres of spectacular views are dotted with villages such as Santa Maria Maggiore, Craveggia and Re, known for their history, traditions and gastronomic delights
In 2026, combined tickets will be available for events such as the Locarno Camellia Festival in April and Arti in Viaggio (Arts on the Move), with performances on board the train The Vigezzina No Limits package allows visitors to explore the Vigezzo valley,
with discounts for families, the Domodossola market and the Verdasio cable car + train connection.
Among the new features Vino e Vigezzina offers a trip and a bottle of fine wine from the Ossola Valley. In autumn, the Treno del Foliage offers special trips to the Christmas markets in Santa Maria Maggiore which is one of the largest in Europe, and Domodossola, as well as Winterland Locarno There are also themed departures in summer for the Sentieri e Pensieri literary festival and the Chimney Sweep Gathering
For information: www.vigezzinacentovalli.com
RAIL
The Cuneo–Ventimiglia line, known as the Ferrovia del Tenda or Treno delle Meraviglie (The Train of Wonders) is part of Trenitalia’s network, and connects Cuneo to western Liguria in two hours and 40 minutes, crossing the Val Vermenagna and French sections of the Roya Valley. A 19th-century engineering feat, the 96-kilometre line climbs over 1,000 metres, with 33 tunnels and numerous bridges The route offers panoramic views in the Maritime Alps and Mercantour natural parks and along the route, there are stops
at Vernante, famous for its Pinocchio murals and handmade knives, Limone Piemonte, a ski resort and starting point for the Via del Sale valley and Breil from where the line to Nice, operated by SNCF, branches off. This line is often used by historic trains and in 2016 was listed by the German magazine Hörzu as one of the ten most beautiful railways in the world.
For information: https://www vermenagnaroya eu/it/
2026 combined tickets
l Locarno Camellia Festival in April
l Arti in Viaggio (Arts on the Move), with performances on board the train itinerary
The Vigezzina No Limits package
l allows visitors to explore the Vigezzo valley, with discounts for families, the Domodossola market and the Verdasio cable car + train connection itinerary
New features
Vino e Vigezzina
offers a trip and a bottle of fine wine from the Ossola Valley Treno del Foliage
In autumn offers special trips to the Christmas markets in Santa Maria Maggiore
In summer
l Sentieri e Pensieri literary festival
l Chimney Sweep Gathering
With a recently renovated fleet, 2,000 kilometres of lines serving students and workers, integrated with the national railway network and Malpensa Airport, Trenord runs throughout Lombardy, extending to neighbouring regions and as far as Switzerland At weekends and depending on the season, some routes are transformed into attractive train trips, expanding the range of tourist itineraries on offer
Thanks to the collaboration between Trenord and Navigazione Laghi, the train + boat option is in high demand, allowing passengers to enjoy the beauty of Lakes Como, Garda and Maggiore in comfort and without a car. Then
Two new luxury cruising trains in the name of vintage travel TRENORD
there are the snow trains + ski passes for Aprica, Valmalenco, Madesimo, Piani di Bobbio, Domobianca and stations in Upper Ticino, and also special departures to the Christmas markets in Iseo, Trento and Bolzano. Furthermore there are trips to Cremona and the Violin Museum, Train & Bike along Lake Varese, trips and tastings in the vineyards of Garda and visits to the rice fields of the Basso Pavese Plans are also being finalized for the 200th anniversary of navigation on Lake Maggiore in 2026
For information: www.trenord.it/giteintreno
l kilometres of lines serving students and workers, integrated with the national railway network and Malpensa Airport
Train + boat
Thanks to the collaboration between Trenord and Navigazione Laghi, this option is in high demand
Snow trains + ski passes
Leading to Aprica, Valmalenco, Madesimo, Piani di Bobbio, Domobianca and stations in Upper Ticino, and also special departures to the Christmas markets in Iseo, Trento and Bolzano
LA DOLCE VITA
Launched in 2025, the La Dolce Vita Orient Express, the first Italian luxury train, is a project by Arsenale and Orient Express with the support of Fondazione FS Italiane and FS Treni Turistici Italiani Itineraries ranging from one to five days with fixed departures, are designed for high-end tourists, covering 14 regions and 128 large and small cities, on an exploration of art, culture, little-known wonders and even the best Italian golf courses Without haste and in a context of yesteryear elegance, you travel from Venice to Portofino, from Siena to the Sassi di Matera, from the vineyards of Montalcino to the truffle route
towards Nizza Monferrato, to the Sicilian cities of Catania, Palermo and Taormina The 1960s carriages of the Italian State Railways have undergone meticulous restoration and restyling that evokes the furnishings, decorations, glamour of yesterday, and there is also live music With thirty-one cabins,
including deluxe and suites, and one deluxe La Dolce Vita
The 1960s carriages of the Italian State Railways have undergone meticulous restoration and restyling
FS - Italian Tourist Trains Routes confirmed
In 2026 a wide range of itineraries for different types of tourism will continue, enhancing the daytime and night-time Express trains, equipped with restaurant cars and designed to offer comfort and experience Following the success of the international services between Rome and the French Riviera (Espresso Riviera) and Rome and Munich for the Oktoberfest and the Christmas markets, the company is confirming these routes and consolidating its domestic services in particular the Rome-Arezzo trains via Assisi This journey into the heart of Italy combines areas rich in gastronomic traditions, such as those linked to newlypressed olive oil and with the Christmas atmosphere of Arezzo The range of historic trains is
This journey into the heart of Italy combines areas rich in gastronomic traditions
being boosted in addition to the Trans-Siberian Railway of Italy, the Ferrovia dei Parchi, which runs at an altitude of 1,000 metres between Abruzzo and Molise, there is a growing number of trains in Sicily, with a focus on the Valley of the Temples, Campania and Northern Italy, as in Friuli-Venezia Giulia and Lombardy This growth is the result of the experience and enhancement of heritage developed by the FS Foundation over the last ten years. The company can also plan tailor-made trips with departures for groups.
For information: www.fstrenituristici.it
Suite, the very high standard of service on board includes a bar, a panoramic lounge and a restaurant with gastronomic experiences created by t h r e e - M i c h e l i n - s t a r r e d chef Heinz Beck
For information: www.orientexpress com/la-dolcevita/it
VENICE SIMPLON ORIENT EXPRESS
The new Venice Simplon Orient Express rail cruise, scheduled to launch from 4 to 7 May this year, combines the elegance of old-fashioned holidays with the charm of Europe’s most iconic cities On board the Belmond Train's 1920s and 1930s carriages, pas-
l Services between Rome and the French Riviera (Espresso Riviera) and Rome and Munich for the Oktoberfest and the Christmas markets
sengers will travel from Paris to the Amalfi Coast, stopping at Pompeii, a UNESCO World Heritage archaeological treasure trove, before spending a dream night at the Caruso in Ravello, overlooking the sea The programme includes private car transfers, exclusive visits, boat trips, cooking and painting classes This year new rail routes will be launched to Venice and Florence: three-night trips with stays at the Hotel Cipriani on the
lagoon or Villa San Michele in the hills of Fiesole The ParisPortofino route will also resume, linking the Ligurian coast and the French Riviera, with overnight stays at the legendary Splendido in Portofino, which reopened in 2025 after extensive renovations.
For information: www belmond com/trai ns/europe/venice-simplon-orient-express
Destination Weddings
by Enzo Scudieri
Destination Weddings continues to be one of the most dynamic segments of Italian t o u r i s m , as confirmed by the Observatory on Destination Weddings, promoted by Convention Bureau Italia with the Centro Studi Turistici. In 2024 Italy hosted over 15,100 foreign weddings, up 11 4% year-on-year, for a value of €931 6 million, certifying a phenomenon in further expansion, capable of generating development, widespread induced activity, and new opportunities for destinations
Enhancing Italy’s potential on international markets
Today the Observatory is the benchmark for the sector allowing regions and DMOs to base their decisions on verified data and not merely on perceptions «This is decisive to really enhance Italy’s potential on international markets,» explains Carlotta Ferrari, director of Convention Bureau Italia. The market is changing rapidly The new trends show a demand for customized weddings, experience spreads over events of several days, green weddings and symbolic ceremonies. Authentic locations such as villages, castles, historical residences, and natural settings are also in demand, while innovative formats such as street weddings in the art cities, and also events in quarries also emerging. «Couples that choose Italy want a cultural and emotional experience, not just a place to get married,» underlines Ferrari.
“ Couples that choose Italy want a cultural and emotional experience”
Carlotta Ferrari
also evident on the supply side The Observatory's survey of 896 operators shows investments in personalization, widespread hospitality, alternative venues, advanced photographic services, logistics and dedicated transport «The destinations that are really growing are those that have realized that the wedding is not just an event, but an articulated tourism product, which requires strategy and a prepared supply chain,- Ferrari continues.And along these lines Convention Bureau Italia is intensifying its support, accompanying destinations in analysis, positioning, training and marketing »
The Tuscan model Tuscany remains one of the most soughtafter regions. Toscana P r o m o z i o n e Turistica’s analysis shows that many foreign weddings are symbolic ceremonies or promise renewals, thus significantly widening the range of available locations. «This makes it possible to draw in villas, farmhouses, historical residences and agritourism farmsteads,» explains director Francesco Tapinassi With more than 1,100 dedicated locations and a complete supply chain - photographers, caterers, car hire companies, florists - the Tuscan region works on the distribution of flows thanks to its strategy which includes educational events and activities with wedding planners in lesser-known areas
Veneto: sustainability and the governance of flows
Carlotta Ferrari, director of Convention Bureau Italia
NUMBERS OF DESTINATION WEDDINGS
15.100
l Foreign weddings in Italy in 2024
+11.4%
l Compared to 2023
The US is the first market for Destination Weddings
The United States remains in the lead, followed by the United Kingdom and European countries with Switzerland, Austria, France, Spain and several long-haul markets growing The transformation is
Veneto, driven by Venice, Verona and Garda, registers a very strong demand and invests in sustainable management. «The DMOs define local strategies, while the Region creates the tools for a management consistent with the identity of the destinations,»
931 l Econom value
Main markets mln€ l USA UK
Western Europe
says regional councillor Federico Caner The Veneto Tourism Strategic Plan 2025-2027 also integrates the wedding sector, strengthened by the work of the Federated Regional Tourism Observatory To diversify what is has to offer, the Veneto region is counting on a call for tenders for product clubs as enterprise networks: «A model that allows common standards and integrated proposals,» underlines Caner
Sicily: authenticity and the strength of the Mediterranean narrative
Sicily is experiencing a phase of strong growth, driven by the uniqueness of its sea, archaeological sites, baroque villages and historical residences «Couples from all over the world choose our island to celebrate the most important day of their lives, attracted by a beauty that speaks to the heart before it speaks to the eyes,» says regional councillor for tourism Elvira Amata. The Region is investing in upgrading hospitality and skills: «We know that we need more infrastructure and professionals that can interpret what foreign couples are looking for This is why we are working on specialized training and targeted marketing We want to consolidate Sicily’s position as a destination of excellence in the Mediterranean, also enhancing lesser-known villages and pla-
ces,» concludes Amata
Other Italian areas
Lombardy consolidates its preeminent role thanks to the lakes of Como, Garda, Iseo and Maggiore, while Milan is a hub of high-end services and hospitality Emilia Romagna is enhancing castles, fortresses and historic villas, especially in the provinces of Parma, Piacenza and Rimini, where accommodation facilities have begun offering complete packages with certified catering, food experiences and photo services The Riviera, on the other hand, is moving towards microweddings and informal ceremonies on the beach Puglia continues to grow with the masserie farmhouse model, which combi-
“
Couples from all over the world choose our island to celebrate the most important day of their lives”
Elvira Amata
nes Mediterranean authenticity and sophistication The Amalfi Coast remains one of the bestknown luxury destinations, where the main challenge is managing flows in the high season
A national identity for the wedding sector
At the heart of the system since 2018 the Convention Bureau Italia has assumed an increasingly decisive role in coordinating the supply chain and building a national identity for the wedding sector. A commitment that culminate in Italy for Weddings - The Event, which ran 18 to 21 February 2026 in Florence, with over 100 international wedding planners meeting Italian operators. «It was a key moment to generate business and strengthen Italy's position as a world leader in wedding tourism,» says Ferrari.
THE ELEMENTS THAT MAKE A DESTINATION GROW
l Clear and recognizable identity
l Integrated and professional supply chain
l Presence on international markets
l Accessibility and quality services
l Territorial governance and public-private stakeholders
Italy’s airports 2026
New services, market strategies, investments
by Marco Micaroni
Italy’s new National Plan for Airports, due for approval shortly by the Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport, focuses on the development of socalled advanced air mobility with the aim of creating a network of vertiports, which will act as hubs for future passenger and cargo transport Between overtourism and sustainability, new services and innovative market strategies, the challenge in 2026 for Italy’s airports is to provide a better welcome to the millions of foreign tourists who choose it each year
A look back at 2025 and to the future Figures for 2025 are extraordinary
with passengers passing through Italian airports between January and September 2025 standing at 180 million, which is 4 7% more than in the same period of 2024 Driving the growth was international traffic, with 121 million customers, an increase of 7.1%. Of these some 80 million fly to and from European destinations, while one third fly to and from non-EU destinations From June to September the Italian airport system handled 93 million passengers, an increase of 2 8% over 2024, with international flights accounting for 67% of the market in 2024 and expected to end 2025 at 69%. By April this year Italian airports will begin to apply the EES system for those entering or leaving the
Schengen area from/to non-European countries The new mechanism will replace the traditional entry stamp with a digital control based on fingerprints and photos allowing for faster procedures and controls. And for flights within the Schengen area it will no longer be necessary to show an identity document at the gate, the boarding pass alone being sufficient
“ At the beginning of summer 2025 additional baggage reclaim belts were added to T3, as well as new e-gates for passport control”
Ivan Bassato
Rome Fiumicino’s 2046 masterplan Italian airports are equipping themselves for the future in a major way
Taking Rome Fiumicino's master plan the goal is 100 million passengers in 2046, doubling the current number and outlining the airport of the future, and it envisages a new terminal and a reorganization of the runways.
«At the beginning of summer 2025 additional baggage reclaim belts were added to T3, as well as new e-gates for passport control,» explains Ivan Bassato, Chief Aviation Officer at Aeroporti di Roma «The baggage reclaim area in T1 was not only upgraded with
2025 Figures
180
l Passengers passing through Italian airports between January and September 2025
4.7%
l Increase from the same period of 2024
93 mln mln mln
121
l Customers of international traffic, + 7 1% from 2024 Of these some 80 million fly to and from European destinations, while one third fly to and from nonEU destinations
l Passengers handled by the Italian airport system from June to September 2025, an increase of 2 8% over 2024
SURVEY Airports
“
The
baggage reclaim area in T1 was also expanded with new areas for passengers and operators
” Ivan Bassato
Fiumicino’s 2046 masterplan
THE GOAL
100 million passengers in 2046, doubling the current number
SUMMER 2025 additional baggage reclaim belts were added to T3, as well as new e-gates for passport control
LOUNGES
two new lounges for premium passengers were opened at Christmas 2025 in T1 and in 2026 a new lounge will also be available inside Pier E
ARRIVALS AREA
the Arrivals border area will be reconfigured and expanded to welcome passengers in a newer and more comfortable environment
three new baggage reclaim belts, but was also expanded with new areas for passengers and operators » Also in T1 two new lounges for premium passengers were opened at Christmas 2025, and in 2026 a new lounge will also be available inside Pier E, and over the next year the Arrivals border area will also be reconfigured and expanded to welcome passengers in a newer and more comfortable environment. Since 2022 the airport has had several pet areas, both in the Transits and in the Arrivals and Departures areas making air travel more enjoyable for passengers' pets.
Fiumicino’s management company ADR recently announced the launch of Virtual Assistant, an advanced digital assistant based on AI, designed to improve the travel experience for the millions of passengers who already transit through Europe's best airport (for the eighth consecutive year, according to ACI World) and Airport of the Year, as announced
at Berlin’s recent International Air Summit 2025 Available via ADR's Whatsapp chatbot and official website www adr it, the new digital tool allows travellers to be informed every step of the way with real-time updates on flights and airport services.
The Virtual Assistant is already available
The new tool’s functions include real-time flight information, parking availability, information on transport services to or from the airport, recommendations on terminal services such as restaurants, shops and shopping centres, baggage tracking, connection assistance and multilingual support The Virtual Assistant is already available and further functions are planned in the coming months.
Ciampino’s Giovan Battista Pastine airport will also see the development of these services, underscoring the prestigious Best Airport in Europe award in the 2 -5 million passengers per year category
VIRTUAL ASSISTANT
An advanced digital assistant based on AI, designed to improve the travel experience for the millions of passengers who already transit through the airport
Available via ADR's Whatsapp chatbot and official website www.adr.it, the new digital tool allows travellers to be informed every step of the way with real-time updates on flights and airport services
The Virtual Assistant is already available and further functions are planned in the coming months.
The new tool’s functions
l Real-time flight information,
l Parking availability
l Information on transport services to or from the airport
l Recommendations on terminal services such as restaurants, shops and shopping centres,
l Baggage tracking
l Connection assistance
l Multilingual support.
Routes Europe 2026 heads to Rimini in May
The 19th edition of Routes Europe 2026, Europe’s leading air-route development and networking event, comes to Emilia-Romagna for the first time, with Rimini chosen as the host city. From 18 to 20 May, the Rimini Conference Centre will be the hub for discussions between global airlines, airports and destinations The programme will include scheduled B2B meetings aimed at developing traffic, high-profile presentations, debates and round tables, and there will also be informal evening networking events for delegates.
Over 1,200 delegates and representatives of some 100 leading airlines from around the world are expected to attend The event is part of the regional development plan for the integrated airport network of Emilia-Romagna, and is driven by the teamwork between the Emilia-Romagna Region, the Municipality of Rimini and the Rimini and San Marino Federico Fellini International Airport.
Air-route events are unique annual forums focused on the development of new air services and are part of the portfolio of Aviation Week Network, the largest provider of information and multimedia services for the global aviation, aerospace and defense industries, serving over one million professionals worldwide. Regional forums are held in the Americas, Asia, Europe and Africa-Middle East, with the flagship Routes World event taking place in October
replicated in the short to medium term This event will have a showcase effect for Italy as, although it is hosted in Rimini, it will be perceived by operators as “Italy 2026.” It is a positioning lever that can benefit the entire national tourism and airport ecosystem from destinations to entire regions, and from MICE and hospitality supply chains to promotional agencies. Potential synergies with the new Ravenna Cruise Terminal are strategic: for 2026 the Terminal forecasts 111 cruise ships, 71 of which will be home ported, and
The event is part of the regional development plan for the integrated airport network of Emilia-Romagna
Independent analysis data highlights significant economic benefits, showing that Routes Europe host destinations achieved a 6.9% increase in routes and direct revenue of €42 million over three years. For Rimini Routes Europe 2026 will be a unique opportunity for the Italian system that is unlikely to be
390,000 passengers, 383,000 of whom will be home ported.
Hosting Routes Europe in Italy will result in market dynamics being transformed into commercial agreements and pipelines, with an impact that is typically measured over several years as far as network planning, operational bases and the transformation of seasonal routes into annual routes are concerned. Routes Europe in Rimini is not just an event “in Rimini,” but a strategic national asset which, in terms of frequency and context, can be considered unique for the next 10-15 years In addition to business meetings, delegates will be given a guided tour of Rimini and its surroundings, from the ruins of Roman Rimini to the Fellini Museum and the newly pedestrianized seafront.
For information: www.aptservizi.com
l Delegates and representatives of some 100 leading airlines from around the world are expected to attend 6.9%
l Increase in routes and direct revenue of €42 million over three years
Rimini Conference Centre
New services at Rome airport
l New digital info points inside the terminals
l Additional free water refilling stations
l New children's play areas,
l New passenger seats with integrated power sockets are on the way
l New spaces for passengers with special needs
l Self-driving chairs for customers with motor difficulties
l Be My Eyes app for blind or visually impaired passengers
l Works of art on display
l Archaeological itinerary.
DOG RELAIS
l an area of 4,500 sqm dedicated to the hospitality and well-being of animals located in the long-stay car park.
l 40 wooden lodges
l 10 outdoor walking
l Supervised by specialized staff
Fiumicino’s travel experience becomes a cultural event
The new services at Rome's airports do not stop there. New digital info points inside the terminals, additional free water refilling stations, new children's play areas, new passenger seats with integrated power sockets are on the way or have been put in place There are new spaces for passengers with special needs, self-driving chairs designed for customers with motor difficulties, and the Be My Eyes app for blind or visually impaired passengers that uses a simple interface to contact an operator and receive immediate support. Fiumicino is also transforming the travel experience into a cultural event with several works of art on display and an archaeo-
logical itinerary. The Dog Relais welcomes dogs at the airport, with an area of 4,500 sqm dedicated to the hospitality and well-being of animals located in the long-stay car park. Equipped with 40 wooden lodges and 10 outdoor walking areas it can be used during the day or during extended hours, and is under the supervision of specialized staff while video call apps allow customers to keep in touch with their pets
Milan Malpensa in Olympic and Paralympic mode
Milan Malpensa is not to be outdone, also taking advantage of the Milan-Cortina Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games from 6th February to 15th March 2026 The aim in the short term has been to improve the quality of the airport areas and guarantee an
adequate reception for athletes, official delegations, media, and passengers The interventions included a complete restyling of the departures and arrivals areas, with particular attention to their accessibility and architectural quality, the creation of green areas, installation of new lighting points and innovative materials for a more welcoming environment The number of seats equipped with charging points for electronic devices and new relaxation areas has also been increased The airport parking area for local buses on the station level routes are being revised, and all architec-
tural barriers will be removed A specific area has been devoted to the management and reception of athletes' luggage, with the handling of a high volume of oversized suitcases Once fully operational this will permanently improve the quality of service and the management of the passport area and Entry/Exit System routes
Milan Bergamo, Bologna, Venice and Florence Airports
Milan Bergamo has inaugurated an expanded departures terminal and new security areas, alongside upgraded commercial spaces and multi-storey
car parks. Verona Villafranca is building a new €68 million terminal with six additional boarding gates
Milan Malpensa is not to be outdone, also taking advantage of the Milan-Cortina Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games
Bologna Guglielmo
Marconi has installed new control stations, a modern baggage system and expanded parking Venice Marco Polo plans major development by 2037,
Malpensa the Olympic airport Northern airports at
Make the athletes feel at home,
The aim in the short term has been to improve the quality of the airport areas and guarantee an adequate reception for athletes, official delegations, media, and passengers
Interventions
l A complete restyling of the departures and arrivals areas
l The creation of green areas
l Installation of new lighting points
l Innovative materials for a more welcoming environment.
work
Bergamo Orio al Serio
l An expanded departures terminal
l New security areas
l Upgraded commercial spaces
l Multi-storey car parks
Verona Villafranca
is building a new €68 million terminal with six additional boarding gates
Bologna Gugliemo Marconi
l has installed new control stations
l modern baggage system
l expanded parking
SURVEY Airports
including a new rail link and a modernized terminal fully operational by May 2026 Florence’s Amerigo Vespucci Airport will expand routes in 2026, increasing international connections across five countries
Southern Italy and the islands
Naples Capodichino’s master plan includes a new terminal, expanded gates, improved energy efficiency and a metro connection by the end of 2026. Salerno Costa d’Amalfi Airport is expanding to better serve the Amalfi Coast, with full operations expected by early 2027 Palermo’s Falcone Borsellino plans to become an intercontinental hub by 2030, strengthening routes to North Africa, the Middle East and North America while
improving sustainability Aeroporti di Puglia will add new international routes from Brindisi and Bari, improving accessibility and reinforcing Italy’s presence in Eastern
Naples Capodichino’s master plan includes a new terminal, expanded gates, improved energy efficiency and a metro connection
Europe Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport is focusing on terminal expansion and improved city connections, including a direct rail link by the end of 2026
Major investments and the outlook for 2026
Major investments are underway nationwide SEA Milan Airports plans €800 million in investments between 2025 and 2029, mainly to support long-haul growth, digital innovation and passenger flow management ADR’s master plan 2046 foresees €9 billion in investments, up to 300,000 new jobs
Future objectives focus on attracting high-quality international tourism and strengthening Italy’s global accessibility
and €70 billion in added value, with a new terminal, revised runways, zero-emission operations and enhanced passenger services Malpensa, the primary Olympic Airport, has welcomed athletes and spectators for the Winter Games, with peaks comparable to summer traffic
Long-haul growth, especially toward Asia and North America, will continue Fiumicino remains Italy’s main gateway, with strong long-haul expansion, over 240 destinations and continued growth in connections with the United States Future objectives focus on attracting high-quality international tourism and strengthening Italy’s global accessibility The foundations for success, it appears, are well and truly in place
Venezia
Marco Polo
l Plans major development by 2037, including a new rail link and a modernized terminal fully operational by May 2026
Firenze
Amerigo Vespucci will expand routes in 2026, increasing international connections across five countries
Southern Airports’ Projects
Napoli Capodichino
l A new terminal
l Expanded gates
l Improved energy efficiency
l A metro connection by the end of 2026
Salerno
Costa d’Amalfi
l Full operations expected by early 2027
Palermo
Falcone e Borsellino
l Plans to become an intercontinental hub by 2030
Aeroporti di Puglia
Brindisi e Bari
l Improving accessibility
l Reinforcing Italy’s presence in Eastern Europe
Olbia
Costa Smeralda
l Terminal expansion
l Improved city connections
Travel Open Day
The hub for Italy’s global travel trade
Travel Open Day is a publishing, web and marketing house specialized in tourism It is the publisher of Travel Quotidiano and ItaliAbsolutely, and has organized over 500 B2B travel-focused events in Italy and abroad to promote business and training for key players in the tourism industry
It is the publisher of Travel Quotidiano (newspaper and website), which for 38 years has been a travel trade benchmark for Italian and international tourism operators, and also ItaliAbsolutely, an innovative B2B portal in English for travel agents, DMCs and international travel operators who design and sell Italy.
Italiabsolutely.com offers constantly updated information and experiences, news and suggestions to help foreign buyers explore Italy and its regions in depth, providing business intel that ensures they offer only the latest and the best of Italy to their clients. The platform also has a B2B marketplace, developed in collaboration with technology provider Arcadia, which directly and effectively brings incoming operators’ services to the international market The website is complemented by a print magazine which is distributed at the main international travel exhibitions.
Portal Fam Trips and Webinars
A print magazine distributed at the main international travel exhibitions A professional travel industry media platform in English with daily in-depth news and views, opinions and inspirations B2B meeting and training events that bring together buyers and sellers A platform linking Italian operators and global B2B2C travel specialists
Villa Avellino, an historic residence in the PhlegraeanFields
Villa Avellino is a historic residence located in Pozzuoli, in the heart of the Phlegraean Fields. Overlooking the Gulf of Naples the property is the result of the restoration of an historic villa and is now a charming hotel for events and meetings, where architecture, history and landscape interact naturally Last year Villa Avellino consolidated its position as a destination for quality stays, private events and corporate meetings, boosting its identity which is strongly linked to the local area and the quality of its partnerships
Cuisine, events and experiences
Villa Avellino's cuisine is helmed by the founder of Sud Ristorante, an historic Michelin-starred restaurant in Campania, now involved in the development of the Marlimone project, with cuisine by Michelin-starred chef Marianna Vitale A partner who supports Villa Avellino for large private events, weddings and food services for MICE and corporate events, guaranteeing a high-level culinary offering that combines local identity, research and quality service
A new thermal wellness project
The architecture and landscape of Villa Avellino make it particularly suitable for hosting exhibitions, installations and presentations, turning the residence into a dynamic scenario that interacts with the local area Alongside Villa Avellino the company is developing a new, independent project entirely dedicated to thermal wellbeing, and inspired by the great historical tradition of the Puteolan thermal baths The cultural reference is Pietro da Eboli's famous medieval manuscript, “De
Balneis Puteolanis,” one of the first European treatises on the therapeutic properties of the waters of the Campi Flegrei, already famous in Roman and medieval days as a place of healing, regeneration and relaxation
The volcano: matrix of the landscape, archaeology and wellbeing
Mount Vesuvius shapes the identity of the Phlegraean Fields, its geology and landscape and unique phenomena such as bradyseism and the thermos-mineral properties of the underground waters This deep connection between nature and history finds one of its highest expressions in the Submerged Archaeological Park of Baia, a unique underwater archaeological trail which can be explored on guided dives, snorkelling or on boats with transparent bottoms, allowing visitors to observe ancient Roman villas, mosaics and more submerged under the sea
A living heritage, on land and under the sea
While the sea preserves the submerged bay, on land the story of the ancient Romans continues, with amphitheatres, temples, thermal complexes and residences scattered throughout Pozzuoli, Baia, Cuma and the entire Phlegraean area, creating one of the most extensive and evocative archaeological heritages in the Mediterranean Villa Avellino, and the new projects underway, are part of a broader network aimed at giving visibility to an area that is receiving increasing attention but still remains little known Working together on projects such as Campi Flegrei Active, Villa Avellino is creating a coordinated narrative of the Campi Flegrei area by communicating its geological, archaeological, thermal and cultural uniqueness to Italian and international audiences
