Israelis Flock to Italy: A Top Summer Travel Destination

While Greece remains a popular summer destination for Israelis, Italy has emerged as a significant alternative, becoming the third most sought-after country for Israeli travelers in July. Approximately 180,000 Israelis visited Italy during that month, surpassing destinations like the UAE, the United States, and Georgia.

This surge in popularity is attributed to an expanded network of direct flights from Tel Aviv, now serving around 11 different Italian cities. Beyond the traditional hubs of Rome and Milan, Israelis are increasingly exploring destinations such as Bari, Bologna, Verona, Venice, Bergamo, Naples, Catania, Palermo, and Cagliari in Sardinia. Some of these routes, particularly to Verona, Bari, Sicily, and Sardinia, are seasonal.

Tamar Garzon, CEO of Gulliver, noted that Italy offers diverse experiences catering to various preferences, from beaches and culinary delights to nature and less-traveled urban areas. This expansion allows travelers to discover Italy from new perspectives, even after previous visits.

Recommended destinations include Bari, the gateway to the Puglia region known for its ancient streets and proximity to towns like Alberobello; Bologna, a culinary capital and home to the world's oldest Western university; Cagliari, the capital of Sardinia, offering a blend of ancient city, sea views, and beaches; Catania in Sicily, situated at the foot of Mount Etna and known for its Baroque architecture and Sicilian cuisine; Naples, a vibrant city famous for pizza and as a base for exploring Pompeii and the Amalfi Coast; Venice, offering more than just its famous canals with nearby islands like Murano and Burano; Turin, a former capital known for its palaces, historic cafes, and chocolate; and Genoa, a historic port city and the birthplace of pesto, serving as a gateway to the Italian Riviera.