Italian Food & Wine Tourism Report 2021: Post-Pandemic Trends

The 2021 Italian Food and Wine Tourism Report, curated by Roberta Garibaldi, was presented at the Senate by Tourism Minister Massimo Garavaglia, Undersecretary for Agricultural Policies Gian Marco Centinaio, UNWTO Europe Director Alessandra Priante, and ENIT President Giorgio Palmucci. The report reveals that food and wine tourism in Italy has grown from 21% of travelers in 2016 to 55% in 2021. The post-pandemic tourist profile is described as more conscious, active, demanding, innovative, and attentive to safety and sustainability. New trends include Neverending Tourism (extending the experience through online courses) and Well-being tourism (holistic packages with outdoor sports, beauty programs, and local food). Among Italians, 86% choose agritourisms, 59% country relais, 56% food-wine themed hotels, 29% glamping, and 32% tree houses. Digital impact is significant: Instagram use for promotion grew 4% in the last year, 70% of respondents buy products with home delivery, and online tastings are popular. The report positions food and wine travelers as 'sentinels' of virtuous tourism that protects local resources and landscapes, countering mass tourism.