Between 2021 and 2025, the increase in events translated into more than two hundred additional congresses compared with the previous four-year period, a clear sign that demand for professional meeting spaces is experiencing sustained growth. This momentum contrasts with the global situation of the sector, which, according to various sources, still faces growth and stability challenges in some regions where the recovery of in-person events has been slower or more uneven.
The boom in congress tourism in Italy is driven by multiple factors. First, the recovery of international travel and the renewed confidence of event organizers in holding in-person gatherings after years dominated by virtual formats have boosted the scheduling of congresses, symposia and specialized meetings. Second, the availability of modern, versatile infrastructure—from convention centers in major cities to historic venues adapted for meetings—has expanded the logistical possibilities for hosting events of different sizes and themes. In addition, international air and rail connectivity facilitates the arrival of delegates from multiple regions, strengthening the country’s competitiveness compared with other traditional markets.
At the same time, the unique combination of cultural, culinary and tourism opportunities with business travel has given Italy a strategic advantage. Congress and event participants do not only attend working sessions; they also extend their stays to explore cities such as Rome, Milan, Florence or Venice, integrating leisure and traditional tourism activities into their professional agenda. This trend of combining business and leisure—internationally known as “bleisure”—helps multiply the economic benefits generated by congress tourism, as it has a positive impact on hotels, restaurants, transport services and local commerce.
The economic impact of this segment is also significant. Business travel and congress attendance generally involve visitors with higher average spending power than traditional tourists, generating additional income for local economies and strengthening the tourism-related value chain. This multiplier effect is especially valuable in a context where diversifying tourism revenue sources is a priority to maintain sector stability in the face of seasonal fluctuations or external crises.
Italy’s international recognition as a congress tourism hub is also reflected in the organization of major global events on its soil. Forums, summits and sector meetings that bring together leaders, experts and organizations from different countries reinforce the country’s reputation as a key player in the global agenda of business and knowledge tourism. This international visibility contributes to attracting new events and consolidating strategic partnerships with professional associations around the world.
Despite this strong growth, industry stakeholders stress the importance of maintaining sustained investment in infrastructure, technological innovation and specialized services to preserve Italy’s competitiveness over the long term. The ability to continuously plan, promote and execute high-level events will be a decisive factor in consolidating this advantage and meeting the expectations of an increasingly demanding and diversified global market.
The remarkable expansion of congress tourism in Italy between 2021 and 2025 not only highlights a specific sectoral phenomenon, but also underscores the growing interconnection between tourism, knowledge and innovation. This synergy positions the country as a global reference point in a segment of high strategic relevance for economic and cultural development, with encouraging prospects as opportunities for international collaboration expand and demand for in-person experiences in the professional world continues to grow.
