April 23, 2025
Plans for expansion beyond Italy's borders for Itabus, the bus division of Italo, will launch connections to Chambery and Lyon from 25 March.
Daily connections to Italy’s main cities
Following the debut last October of services to Ljubljana and Zagreb (6 daily), from 26th March Italbus is adding France. The new services include four daily connections between main Italian cities, such as Naples, Caserta, Rome, Florence, Bologna, Reggio Emilia, Piacenza, Milan and Turin, with the French destinations of Chambèry and Lyon.
Intermodal train+bus services
France will also be accessible thanks to the train+bus intermodal system. With a single ticket it is possible to arrive at Turin Porta Susa with Italo and from there take Itabus. Also on the return journey, leaving by bus from Lyon and changing in Turin to take the train and complete the journey. To date, there are already 30 intermodal train+bus connections offered by the Italo Group, both in Italy and in Europe.
Moving into new European countries
Growth abroad doesn't end with France: “After consolidating our presence in Italy, the next step is abroad,- comments Francesco Fiore, CEO of Itabus. -First we'll be launching in Slovenia and Croatia then, from the end of March, we will start services in France. 2025 will be crucial, we will enter new European countries and strengthen services to large infrastructures such as airports, ports and railway stations.”
Published in Transportation
The Flame of Hope, symbol of the Special Olympics World Winter Games, arrived at Leonardo da Vinci Airport in Rome Fiumicino on ITA Airways flight AZ721 from Athens.
“ITA promotes sustainability in all its forms”
The Special Olympics, which will take place in Turin from 8 to 15 March 2025, are dedicated to athletes with and without intellectual disabilities; a global movement that, through unified sports, is creating a new world of inclusion and respect, where every single person is accepted and welcomed, regardless of their ability or disability. “We are very proud to collaborate in the realization of the Special Olympics by carrying the Flame of Hope, a symbol of inclusivity and social sustainability, on board our aircraft, - said Sandro Pappalardo, President of ITA Airways. -Sustainability is a pillar of ITA's industrial plan and we promote it in all its forms, both together with corporate economic responsibility, but also with social responsibility, cultivating an inclusive culture with actions in support of the entire community.”
Investing to guarantee a barrier-free airport
“It is a great pleasure to welcome the Flame of Hope, symbol of the Special Olympics Turin 2025, to Fiumicino Airport, which is confirmed not only as a place of transit, but a real hub for meeting, dialogue and sharing,- said the President of Aeroporti di Roma, Vincenzo Nunziata. -This competition perfectly embodies the values of openness and inclusion that are in our DNA, and reflect our daily commitment to making our airports increasingly accessible in line with international protocols. For many years we have been investing to guarantee a barrier-free airport experience, with increasingly cutting-edge infrastructure and innovative services designed to meet the needs of all travellers.”
The Olympic flame speaks a universal language
“The purpose of this torch is not the arrival, the destination, but the journey and what it will encounters along the way. I look at it and I hear all the languages of the world speaking, I understand them all because this flame, which speaks a universal language, represents a light of hope, for a better future,- added Patrizia Sandretto Re Rebaudengo, President of the local organising committee of the Torino 2025 Winter World Games.
Published in Transportation
Naar’s German offices will open by the end of the month, continuing the company's internationalization.
Naar’s third office in Europe
"This is now our third office in Europe, after those opened in France in 2023 and in Benelux last year,- says Frederic Naar, founder and CEO of the Milan-based tour operator. -The project is working so well that over 10% of the trips sold now come from our offices outside Italy.”
10% growth from Italy and 12-15% from Europe
In view of this success, the forecasts for 2025 are also rosy. After having comfortably exceeded €70 million in turnover in the 2024 financial year (data still provisional; in 2023 revenues were 65 million. Ed.), the company expects a further increase of 20%-25%. This is thanks to both a 10% growth in the Italian market and a 12%-15% contribution from the international offices. “What is perhaps more important is that with the consolidation of our activities in our European offices, our growth rates should be maintained in the coming years. This cannot be taken for granted when volumes become more important, as is happening to us.”
Frederic Naar, Olivier Dewit, Frank Goetze and Marco Guaramonti
The advantages of being in several markets
But the benefits of internationalization don't just translate into increased revenue: “Being present in several markets also allows us to activate many synergies with suppliers, including hotels and airlines. Our partners are supporting us and we often manage to get special rates, which usually take several years to obtain. Everyone is really happy to see an Italian company going out on a limb.”
Published in Tour operator
A new project puts the life of its guests and employees first at Courtyard by Marriott Rome Central Park
A project coordinated by a cardiologist
The hotel is purchasing a semi-automatic external defibrillator (AED) and organizing a training course for hotel staff, coordinated by the cardiologist Dr Andrea Ghidini Ottonelli, together with the Onlus Roberto Pardini, a non-profit organization founded in 2010 in memory of a young man who died prematurely of cardiac arrest.
A certification valid throughout Italy
Courtyard by Marriott Rome Central Park employees will have the opportunity to learn the basic rules of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and the use of semi-automatic external defibrillators (AED) thus acquiring a certification valid throughout Italy.
“In the case of cardiac arrest, every minute is vital”
“In a hotel that welcomes some 76,000 guests every year, being able to carry out first emergency interventions can really make a difference,” says Antonio De Santis, operations manager of the hotel. “In the case of cardiac arrest, every minute is vital,- explains Dr Ghidini Ottonelli. -Being able to deal with and often resolve risky situations is an important step towards increasing safety for guests and in the workplace.” With this new cardio-protected hotel project, the Courtyard confirms its corporate culture aimed at 360-degree sustainability and well-being.
Published in Hospitality
Discover, connect, experience: ItaliAbsolutely’s mission at the Las Vegas Travel Forum
March 07, 2025ItaliAbsolutely returns with a mission to the Las Vegas Travel Agent Forum from March 30 to April 2, 2025.
Showcasing Italy’s rich travel experiences
Reaffirming its commitment to showcasing Italy’s rich travel experiences, ItaliAbsolutely returns with a mission to the Las Vegas Travel Agent Forum from March 30 to April 2, 2025. The premier English-language portal for Italian tourism will be in Las Vegas to host the exclusive ItaliAbsolutely Village, highlighting diverse Italian offerings, from Sardinia with a rich tapestry of Italian operators to Brescia, and from the Frasassi Caves to Master Group Italia DMC.
Meet ItaliAbsolutely at Las Vegas Travel Agent Forum (Booths 501-509)!
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ItaliAbsolutely has redefined the promotion of authentic Italian travel. Developed by the Travel Quotidiano media group, the platform leverages decades of publishing expertise to serve inbound tourism professionals. Since launching in 2021 it has produced some 3,000 articles, and it attracts over 70,000 international operators weekly via its newsletter. The portal serves as a trusted resource, offering up-to-date, reliable information for buyers, while providing DMOs and DMCs with a strategic channel for high-impact promotion.
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Print editions for major international fairs
Actively promoting Italy at global trade fairs, it distributes special print editions at the WTM London, TTG Experience Rimini, BIT Milan, ITB Berlin, and Las Vegas Travel Forum. In addition, the platform orchestrates targeted initiatives, including fam trips, workshops, post-tours, and B2B meetings, creating immersive experiences that deepen industry knowledge and expand business opportunities.
Fam trips for international buyers
In 2024 ItaliAbsolutely hosted fam trips for selected travel buyers from a pool of over 300 global applicants. These exclusive experiences took participants to Messina, Bologna and through the Marche region and beyond, offering firsthand insights into local tourism landscapes and strengthening ties with regional stakeholders.
Be our guest on a Fam Trip to Italy!
Read the article: ItaliAbsolutely Makes a Splash in Las Vegas for 400 enthusiastic buyers
Published in MICE & Events
Rome Fiumicino airport is looking to a future that will see it managing up to 100 million passengers a year, almost doubling its current capacity with an investment plan of €5 million.
Aeroporti di Roma is planning for 100 million passengers annually
Aeroporti di Roma, which currently handles almost 50 million passengers annually, has presented an updated masterplan with a significant expansion project involving around 260 hectares, 151 of which are in a protected area. The area will subsequently be returned or compensated with environmental interventions, creating a park of 85 hectares.
The airport will get a fourth runway
The centrepiece of this huge project is the construction of a fourth runway that will be built within the perimeter of the existing airport, parallel to the existing runway 3. It's not just a question of runways and internal infrastructure, work will also be done on the external road network. One important aspect is the improvement of the road that connects Rome to the airport. In addition to the inauguration of Pedalaria, the cycle path connecting the city centre to the airport, a new road structure is planned with an investment of €250 million.
Some 53 million passengers are expected this year
The official go-ahead from the institutions is still pending, as part of a process that includes the subsequent technical clearance from ENAC (the Italian Civil Aviation Authority), the “Environmental Impact Assessment” process, and the services conference: 18-24 months in all. Then planning permission will be needed for the expropriations and the start of work. And in the meantime? This year 53.5 million passengers are expected and Leonardo da Vinci can handle up to 60-62 million: consequently 2027-2028 risks being critical, with ITA Airways struggling to guarantee feeder flights for its intercontinental flights. In 2029-2030, depending on the scenario, the system may not be able to meet the potential demand for travel adequately if the project doesn't start as soon as possible.
Published in Transportation
At ITB Berlin Italiabsolutely spoke to Alessandro Anello, Palermo city council’s tourism councillor, who said his city is presenting exciting new developments aimed at boosting its appeal to international travellers.
The Mosaic Path Project is a UNESCO route
One of the key highlights, Anello said, is the Mosaic Path Project, a dedicated initiative to further promote the Arab-Norman itinerary which is a UNESCO World Heritage route. “This itinerary comprises nine historic sites. It is a testament to the rich cultural legacy of Sicily and the sites include the Cathedral, the Royal Palace, the Zisa Castle, the Admiral’s Bridge, the Church of San Cataldo, San Giovanni degli Eremiti and the Cathedrals of Monreale and Cefalù. The Mosaic Path Project incorporates digital tools, including a dedicated App and website for easy access, and it allows visitors to explore not only the stunning mosaics but also a broader "mosaic" of history, culture, and experiences across Palermo.”
“We are using culture and sport to promote Palermo year round”
Palermo, continued the councillor, is also partaking in major international trade fairs like the ITB to increase tourist flows throughout the year, particularly during traditionally low seasons such as November, January, and February. An expanded calendar of events for 2025 will cover both cultural and sporting attractions including the Extra-Hotel Tourism Exchange and the November Luxury Travel Fair. “Sports tourism,- said Councillor Anello, - is another way to extend the travel season and attract diverse visitor segments, and this year we will host the Palermo Montecarlo International Women’s Tennis Tournament, the Florio Trophy, and the World Powerboat Championship among others.” 
Alessandro Mazza, an ambassador for Italian tourism
We also met up with Alessandro Mazza, a well-known television presenter and a familiar face at key events promoting Italian tourism. Alessandro’s passion for Italy is not just professional but also personal, and he has spent many holidays in Italy, particularly in the Marche region where his father was born. Alessandro’s enthusiasm for Italy goes beyond professional engagements, “I gladly share my love for Italy with friends and colleagues, and I welcome any opportunity to act as an ambassador for Italian tourism.”
Published in Cities & Regions
ENIT is present in force at ITB Berlin with managing director Ivana Jelinic, the minister of tourism Daniela Santanchè and the Italian ambassador in Berlin Fabrizio Bucci.
“A thermometer for understanding future trends”
“It's always a pleasure to return to the Berlin event, one of the most important trade fairs in the world,- said Ivana Jelinic. “The ITB is a kind of thermometer for understanding future trends in world tourism from which we can draw indications for our operators. Germany is our leading European market, and is therefore very important. The Germans know and love Italy, but we must never tire of making even the lesser-known parts of Italy known, and of reminding them why they should come back to our country. We are here with a large delegation from 14 regions, and with over 250 operators, which shows how important this market is for us.”
The Milan-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics will drawmore German visitors
“Tourism is an essential source of wealth for our country, not only in economic terms, but also in terms of culture and image. Italy is in fact among the top ten countries in the world for the number of foreign tourists, and among these Germany is the driving force, with 14% of total arrivals in 2024 - said the ambassador Fabrizio Bucci. -Over the next few years we expect an even greater presence of German tourists, also thanks to the Milan-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, which will see more than 3,500 athletes from 93 countries compete for 195 medals in the splendid setting of the Dolomites, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.”
“Italy is ready to meet the expectations of German travellers all year round”
“Relations between Italy and Germany are a fundamental pillar for our economy and, in particular, for the tourism sector. Germany is the primary market of origin for travellers who choose Italy as their destination, and this is a tangible sign of the trust and appreciation that the Germans have for our culture, our history and our natural beauty. In 2024 we saw a significant rise in the number of German visitors, and our intention is to continue developing initiatives that can attract more and more tourists. Investing in tourism means investing in the future, and we are committed to promoting Italy as a welcoming and innovative country, ready to meet the expectations of German travellers all year round. Strengthening these ties is essential, not only for tourism, but also for the commercial opportunities that come with it, creating a virtuous circle that will benefit both countries.’
Published in MICE & Events
ITA Airways is back at the ITB in Berlin, at the Lufthansa Group stand for the third year running.
Germany is a strategic market for ITA Airways
Present for the airline at Stand 119 in Pavilion 25 are Emiliana Limosani, ITA's chief commercial officer and CEO of Volare, and the international sales team. Germany is confirmed as a strategic market for the airline, which this summer will operate up to 59 weekly flights (118 flights) between the two countries. The flights will depart from Frankfurt, Munich, Hamburg and Düsseldorf to Rome Fiumicino and Milan Linate. Among these is the new Milan Linate-Munich route which will take off on 30 March with twelve weekly flights. Thanks to these convenient connections, German passengers will be able to access the entire ITA Airways network, including the main destinations in Italy and worldwide.
A total of 59 destinations this summer
ITA Airways will therefore be offering 59 destinations this summer, 16 of which are intercontinental, 27 international and 16 domestic. During the peak summer season ITA Airways will increase the number of destinations on offer with 12 additional seasonal destinations, of which three are domestic and nine international. Among these are the direct flights to Rome Fiumicino and Milan Linate from Rhodes, Ibiza, Palma de Mallorca, Menorca, Heraklion, Corfu, Lampedusa, Pantelleria, Zakynthos and Kefalonia.
New flights to Mauritius from 7 November
From 30 March ITA Airways passengers will be able to benefit from additional connections to over one hundred destinations thanks to flights in codeshare with the five carriers of the LH Group: Lufthansa, Swiss, Austrian Airlines, Brussels Airlines and Air Dolomiti. Looking ahead to winter, the novelty of the 2025-2026 season will be the opening of the Rome Fiumicino-Mauritius route. Operated with an Airbus A330neo, it will be inaugurated on 7 November 2025 and will have two weekly flights.
ITA Airways aims to become the youngest carrier in Europe
In 2024, ITA Airways carried 18 million passengers, about 20% more than in 2023. The intercontinental sector performed particularly well, with an increase of over 700,000 passengers (+38%). The overall average load factor was 81%, but even in this case the best performance was recorded on long-haul flights, with an average load factor of 84%. The fleet, which at the start of operations in October 2021 consisted of 52 aircraft, now comprises 99 Airbus models, of which 64 are new generation (22 for long haul and 77 for short and medium haul). The aim is to have 90% of the fleet new generation by the end of 2027, with fuel consumption reduced by 20-25% and a decrease in CO₂ emissions, with the goal of becoming the youngest carrier in Europe.
Published in Transportation
Starting on April 5 Gardaland Resort will celebrate 50 years of magic, excitement, and innovation, with a season full of new attractions designed to captivate all generations.
One of Italy’s most popular attractions
This extraordinary milestone marks half a century of unforgettable adventures that have made the park, which is part of Merlin Entertainments, a global leader in branded entertainment, one of the most popular destinations in Italy and Europe, having welcomed millions of visitors both young and old.
New experiences and innovative shows
To celebrate this 50th anniversary the park is unveiling extraordinary experiences and new themed areas that are sure to amaze visitors. They are the Animal Treasure Island which will transport adventurers on an underground dark ride, featuring twenty never-before-seen scenes and unique characters, and the Dragon Empire which is inspired by Eastern traditions and will spirit visitors into a festive atmosphere. And there is also the Gardaland Theatre, an innovative show where technology and creativity will blend to engage audiences.
Special benefits and themed hotels
To celebrate its 50th anniversary Gardaland is also offering special experiences for its visitors. For example, guests can enter the park for free on their birthday, enjoying a unique day filled with attractions, shows, and the company of their loved ones. And the magic of this season doesn’t end in the park thanks to its themed hotels: Gardaland Hotel, Gardaland Adventure Hotel, and Gardaland Magic Hotel for a total of 475 rooms, 264 of which are fully themed.
Published in Tour operator
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