Summer 2020 has reshuffled the cards of Italian tourism, favoring domestic holidays. Summing up the crisis in the sector is Cna Turismo, according to which the Puglia wins the gold medal, thanks to the coasts of Salento, Gargano and Bari, while Versilia, Grosseto and the islands make Tuscany's fortune. Even in Sicily the recovery continues, making her win the bronze medal. After that there are Sardinia, Calabria, Campania, Emilia Romagna, Marche and Liguria.
These are the favorite destinations of the Italians, but we are witnessing a general decline throughout the country, above all due to the absence, or almost so, of foreigners but also of organized groups who have changed their summer projects at the last minute, preferring leave as a couple, as a family or at most with a few friends.
Tourism is certainly the sector that has paid the highest price for the Coronavirus health emergency, which in Italy has over 230 companies, of which 33 are hotels, 17 travel agencies and tour operators. Only between March and May did the sector lose approx 52 billion euros, generated by 80 million visitors. And to pay the consequences all the hospitality businesses, restaurants but also the transport of people and travel agencies.
According to estimates June is the worst month, not better those of July. Hopes remain for August and perhaps even September, but in any case not enough to save the season that has already started late due to the epidemiological crisis.
However, the last word has not yet been said. Tourism operators are pinning their hopes on local tourism, even if many Italians have reduced their holidays or travel, not only for fear of a second wave but also to avoid the areas most affected by the virus or possible gatherings. On the other hand, those who were used to traveling quickly by plane prefer to stay within the borders, choosing proximity tourism: the tourism of those who have given up on long journeys but not on holidays.
As for the type of holiday, it remains at the top of the preferences of Italians the sea, immediately after the mountain, for trekking lovers, and finally the hill. While the crisis of the cities of art becomes more and more profound, with the exception of Venice and Matera.
