Data from the Ministry of the Interior also confirms that 2026 is a golden year for tourism, in Italy and particularly in Sardinia .
In the first half of 2026, the Ministry of the Interior's web accommodation platform reveals, there was a notable increase in arrivals, +4.43% compared to the same period in 2025 across the entire national territory .
On the island, the figure is almost double the national average, with an 8.24% increase in arrivals . Calabria stands out, with a 10.54% increase, the fastest-growing region, ahead of Umbria (+9.7%) and Piedmont (+9.22%). Sardinia comes in at the bottom of the podium , ahead of Puglia (+7.43%) and Liguria (+6.56%).
This positive trend was driven primarily by foreign visitors: arrivals from abroad increased by 6.45% compared to 2025, with Sardinia seeing an 11.44% increase . Calabria once again stands out in this ranking, posting a significant leap with a 23.19% increase in arrivals, ahead of Puglia, Abruzzo, Molise, Basilicata, Sardinia, and Piedmont, all with increases between 10 and 14%.
Domestic arrivals saw a 1.97% increase nationwide, with peaks in Umbria (+13.64%) and Liguria (+8.89%). The Ministry of the Interior also reports that non-hotel tourism is growing faster than hotel tourism, up 7.46% versus 2.27% .
"These data," explains Tourism Minister Gianmarco Mazzi , "confirm that, in a world of global challenges, Italy's tourism industry continues to achieve record results. The sector is proving to be increasingly strategic and confirms its position as a pillar of the national economy . The ministry will continue to invest and think positively."
" Italy is at the top of European tourism , a result that recognizes the beauty of our nation, the quality of our offerings, and the hard work of the entire tourism sector," rejoiced Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni . "Thanks to the entrepreneurs, workers, and industry professionals who contribute every day to making Italy an increasingly attractive and competitive destination. The government will continue to do its part to support a strategic sector for our economy and the nation's growth," the Prime Minister concluded.
(Unioneonline)