Tourism in Sicily 2025: 22.5 million arrivals, increase in foreigners and decrease in Italians

In 2025, tourism in Sicily recorded 22.5 million tourist presences, stable compared to 2024 but with opposite dynamics between Italians and foreigners. Italians fell below 10 million (-6.3%), while foreigners reached nearly 13 million (+5.5%), a result below the national average.

Key Data 2025

Italian presences decline due to shorter stays (under 3 nights), against an Italian average of 3.4 nights. Arrivals at Sicilian airports grow moderately to 23 million, but Italians decrease by 1.7% while foreigners increase by 5.1% to 8.3 million, lower than the +7.6% national and the +13% of Puglia and Sardinia.

The sector accounts for 4.2% of the Sicilian economy and 4.8% of the national tourism supply chain, driving transportation, shopping, food, and cultural-natural offerings with revenues growing since 2019.

Statements from Leaders

Salvatore Malandrino (Unicredit Sicilia) emphasizes: tourism generates 6 billion in added value with 32,000 businesses (6% national), in post-Covid growth exceeding Italian averages; investments are needed for quality and international variety.

Nico Torrisi (Federalberghi Sicilia) notes a constant interest from investors and airlines, despite wars, with a health status "very good".

Rosa Di Stefano (Federalberghi Palermo) highlights a +2.8% in arrivals: Sicily overcomes seasonality, attracts high-spending Americans with stays over 3 days and low cancellation rates, focusing on culture and identity.

Implications for 2026

To consolidate foreign growth and revitalize domestic tourism, focus on de-seasonalization and quality. The UniCredit-Federalberghi Palermo forum outlines a tourism "year-round", with Palermo offering experiences beyond the sea.