More than 11 million Italians will choose to cycle for their leisure activities during the upcoming summer holidays. This is "a constantly growing phenomenon, which confirms the increasingly central role of cycle tourism in the country's tourist offer".
According to data from the Observatory of the Confturismo-Confcommercio confederation — compiled in collaboration with SWG — 4.6 million Italians will take their own bicycles on summer vacation, an increase of approximately 600 thousand compared to 2023. To this number are added 6.6 million tourists who will prefer to rent a bicycle in the holiday destination, representing an increase of more than one million people compared to last year.
The bicycle thus confirms its status as "one of the preferred ways to explore regions, enjoy outdoor experiences and combine well-being, sustainability and experiential tourism. It is a trend that attracts not only cycle tourism enthusiasts, but also an ever-growing audience of travelers looking for an active vacation, at a slower pace and in close contact with nature." Manfred Pinzger, president of Confturismo-Confcommercio, supports the proposal of Minister Mazzi — who, at a recent conference, announced plans to focus on revitalizing cycle tourism along with walking routes. "The bicycle has become a key element in the summer holidays of Italians, representing a choice that goes far beyond simple sport and symbolizes a new way of experiencing tourist destinations — more sustainable, authentic and respectful of the localities...."
