WHEN TO TRAVEL to Italy

Location

Climate

Italy is a popular tourist destination for its picturesque landscapes, rich history, delicious cuisine and, of course, beautiful architecture. But with so many attractions to see and events to experience, how do you choose the best time to go to Italy?

Italy's high season: June to August

The high season in Italy generally runs from June to August. During this period, temperatures are warm, the sun shines and the days are long. However, it also means that tourist sites are crowded and hotel and flight prices can be high.

Major cultural events in high season

Although the crowds are large during the summer, there are also many exciting cultural events worth experiencing. Here are some of the most famous:

• Spoleto Festival Spoleto: this international arts festival takes place in Spoleto every summer, featuring theater, dance, opera and classical music.
• Palio di Siena Siena: this traditional horse race takes place in the city of Siena in July and August and is accompanied by festivities and celebrations.
• Festa del Redentore Venetian event: this Venetian event takes place on the third weekend of July and celebrates the end of the plague in the 16th century with spectacular fireworks and regattas.

Low season in Italy: November to March

Italy's low season generally runs from November to March. During this period, temperatures are cooler and there are fewer tourists. This can be a good time to visit if you prefer to avoid the crowds and take advantage of more affordable accommodation and flight prices. Nevertheless, some attractions may be closed or have reduced opening hours during the low season.

Public holidays in low season

There are several public holidays in Italy during the low season, including :

• All Saints' Day (November 1) This holiday is an opportunity for Italians to visit the graves of their loved ones and celebrate life.
• Christmas (December 25) Christmas festivities in Italy include Christmas markets, live nativity scenes and midnight masses.
• New Year's Day (January 1st) New Year's Eve: Italians celebrate the New Year with fireworks, concerts and traditional feasts.
• Carnevale This festival, which takes place in February or March depending on the Christian calendar, is marked by parades, masked balls and street performances.

The shoulder seasons: spring and autumn

Spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) are often considered the best times to visit Italy. The temperatures are pleasant, the tourist sites less crowded and the landscapes magnificent, with flowers in bloom in spring and leaves in changing colors in autumn.

Major cultural events in the shoulder seasons

Here are some notable cultural events taking place in spring and autumn:

• Settimana Santa (Holy Week) The week before Easter is marked by religious processions and re-enactments of Christ's crucifixion all over the country.
• Festa dei Ceri Gubbio: this folk festival takes place every year on May 15 in Gubbio, Umbria, and includes a giant candle race through the town.
• Venice International Film Festival This prestigious festival takes place in September and attracts filmmakers, actors and film fans from all over the world.
• Harvest Autumn: autumn is the ideal time to visit Italy's wine-growing regions, such as Tuscany and Piedmont, to witness the grape harvest and the local festivals that accompany it.

Analysis of Italian immigration figures

Among European countries, Italy is a popular destination for migrants for a number of reasons, not least its geographical position and economic opportunities. Statistics reveal significant trends in the number of migrants arriving in Italy.

Migration flows to Italy

According to data from the International Organization for Migration (IOM), approximately 120,000 migrants arrived in Italy by sea in 2017. However, this figure has since fallen, with almost 11,500 arrivals recorded in 2019. This decline is due in particular to the introduction of restrictive immigration policies and cooperation with North African countries to reduce crossings. In terms of nationalities, migrants mainly from Africa account for the majority of arrivals in Italy. Among them are nationals from countries such as Nigeria, l'Eritreathe Guinea and the Ivory Coast.

Asylum applications in Italy

Italy is also a country with a high number of asylum applications. In 2019, nearly 50,000 asylum applications have been filed in the countryThis represents a drop on previous years. The main asylum seekers in Italy come from countries such as Pakistan, Nigeria, Bangladesh and Afghanistan.

The most popular visas in Italy

In Italy, several types of visa are available for those wishing to enter the country, whether for professional, family or tourist reasons. Among the most popular visas are :

• Schengen visa Schengen visa: This visa allows travel within the Schengen area for a maximum of 90 days over a 180-day period. It is very popular with international tourists and business travelers alike.
• Work visa Non-European nationals wishing to work in Italy must obtain a work visa. Italian employers must first obtain a work permit for their future employee before the latter can apply for a visa. This type of visa is particularly popular with skilled workers and highly qualified professionals.
• Student visa International students wishing to study in Italy must apply for a student visa. Italy welcomes a large number of foreign students every year, particularly in the fields of art, design and fashion.
• Family reunification visa This visa allows family members of non-European nationals legally resident in Italy to join them. It is widely requested by migrants wishing to live with their families in Italy.

International tourism figures for Italy

Italy is a major tourist destination in Europe, attracting millions of visitors every year. International tourism plays a key role in the Italian economy, contributing to economic growth and job creation.

International tourist arrivals

In 2019, Italy welcomed over 65 million international touristsThis puts the country in fifth place worldwide in terms of tourist arrivals. The main nationalities visiting Italy are German, French, American, British and Chinese.

International tourist spending

Spending by international tourists in Italy is also significant. In 2019, foreign visitors spent nearly 42 billion euros in the country. This sum represents a major source of revenue for the Italian economy, helping to support numerous sectors such as the hotel, restaurant and transport industries.

Popular tourist destinations in Italy

Italy is famous for its iconic sights, delicious cuisine and exceptional cultural heritage. Among the most popular destinations for international tourists are :

• Romethe country's capital, with historic monuments such as the Colosseum, the Roman Forum and the Trevi Fountain;
• Venicethe romantic city of canals and gondolas;
• Florencethe cradle of the Renaissance and home to artistic masterpieces;
• Milana fashion and design center and home to numerous international companies;
• The Tuscany regionwith its picturesque landscapes, vineyards and charming medieval towns.