Israelis Flock to Italy: A Top Summer Travel Destination

While Greece remains a popular summer destination for Israelis, Italy has emerged as a significant contender, 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, USA, and France. This surge in popularity is attributed to an expanded network of direct flights from Tel Aviv to 11 different Italian cities, including Rome, Milan, Bologna, Verona, Venice, Naples, Bari, 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 is a destination Israelis repeatedly return to, highlighting the increased accessibility to diverse regions beyond the traditional tourist hubs of Rome and Milan. The expanded flight options allow travelers to tailor their vacations to various interests, from beaches and culinary experiences to nature and less-explored urban areas. This offers a chance to discover Italy from a new perspective, even for those who have visited before.

Recommended destinations include Bari, the gateway to the Puglia region, known for its ancient streets and proximity to towns like Alberobello. Bologna is highlighted for its culinary heritage, historic university, and unique arcades. Cagliari in Sardinia offers a blend of ancient city charm, sea views, and beaches close to the urban center. Catania, situated at the foot of Mount Etna, combines Baroque architecture with Sicilian cuisine and serves as a base for exploring the volcano and nearby towns. Naples, a vibrant city famous for its pizza, is also a starting point for excursions to Pompeii, Capri, and the Amalfi Coast. Venice, beyond its famous canals, offers quieter neighborhoods and surrounding islands like Murano and Burano. Turin, Italy's first capital, is noted for its palaces, historic cafes, chocolate tradition, and a significant Egyptian museum, with the Alps as a backdrop. Genoa, a historic port city, boasts grand palaces and is the birthplace of pesto, serving as an entry point to the Italian Riviera and Cinque Terre.