With the start of summer, millions of Italians are preparing to spend their holidays at the seaside. However, 2024 stands out for a less than reassuring trend: prices of tourist services have increased significantly compared to the previous year. According to data provided by Assoutenti and Federalberghi, who conducted a survey between 3 and 6 June 2024 on sites specialized in hotel bookings and airline flights, going on holiday this summer will tend to cost more.
Let’s see in detail then where prices have increased, when to book to save and which are the most convenient destinations.
2024 holidays at the seaside, where prices have increased in Italy
June confirms itself as a popular month for holidays, with 15.1 million Italians choosing this period for their holiday. It must be said, however, that although leaving in this month guarantees a certain saving compared to the August holidays (up to 25%, according to the Assoutenti and Federalberghi survey), June is however not free from significant price increases. In fact, vacation packages have undergone a increase of 20.4%, hotels by 7.8%, and bed and breakfasts and holiday homes by 8.1%.
The most famous seaside resorts see considerable increases in the costs of accommodation facilities. There Sardinia emerges as the region with the highest increases, followed by Senigallia, Milano Marittima and Anzio. For example, a family who chooses to stay at Porto Cervo can spend up to 3,500 euros for a week, while Baja Sardinia and Amalfi they require approximately 2,600 and 2,200 euros respectively. Even locations like Marina di Pietrasanta exceed 2,000 euros.
Inflation has actually hit the sector, with an upward price trend that extends to all tourist services, from train tickets (+8.1%) to buses (+4%). And speaking of cost of transport, this also represents another critical factor.
From the study conducted, in particular, it emerged that i ferries have seen an average increase of 6.3%, with routes such as Genoa-Porto Torres costing today 1,274 euros (+1.8% compared to 2023), although the most significant increases are recorded on the Civitavecchia-Porto Torres route (+ 10.2%). Air flights have also undergone significant increases. A return flight for a family from Milan to Brindisi today costs 972 euros, with an increase of 15% compared to 2023. The Rome-Olbia route has increased by 15.5%, while flying from Milan to Cagliari costs 5, 6% more.
Where to go to the beach in Italy low prices
Despite the general price increases, it is still possible to find seaside destinations in Italy that offer good value for money.
The survey conducted by Assoutenti and Federalberghi, using online price comparators such as Booking.com and Trivago and comparing them with ISTAT statistical data and user reviews on TripAdvisor, offers us a complete overview of the current costs and trends of prices, helping us to identify seaside resorts at lower prices.
Specifically, from what emerged, for the period around mid-August Bibione it is one of the cheapest seaside resorts in Italy. Located in the Veneto region, it offers well-equipped beaches and a wide range of affordable accommodation. A week’s stay in a three-star accommodation for a family with two children can cost around 872 euros, making it an ideal destination for families looking to save money.
Then, there is Rapallo, located in the picturesque Ligurian Riviera, which stands out as another of the most convenient destinations. With an average cost per family of around 909 euros for a week in a medium category structure, it offers a perfect mix of natural beauty, history and culture, without weighing too much on the wallet.
Next we find Grade, known as the “Island of the Sun”, which offers safe and well-kept beaches at competitive prices. With a cost of around 967 euros for a week per family, Grado is perfect for those looking for a relaxing holiday on a limited budget.
When to book for summer 2024
To get the best prices and availability for your 2024 summer holidays, it is advisable to book well in advance. Book summer holidays between November and February can often guarantee the best rates, especially for popular flights and accommodation. For example, many accommodations and airlines offer discounts early bird to encourage early bookings and generally, for domestic and European flights, booking 2-3 months in advance can offer lower fares.
There is no general and always valid rule, however, experts advise:
- for holidays in Juneto book between November and January;
- for holidays in Julyto book between December and February;
- for the holidays in August, to book between January and March.
Even in the period from March to May it is advisable to continue monitoring prices, especially if you are in a position to block any last minute offers or take advantage of last minute discounts. Finally, perhaps not everyone knows this, but prices tend to be lower if you book flights and accommodation between Tuesday and Thursday, compared to the weekend when demand is highest. In this case, use tools like Google Flights, Skyscanner, and price alerts on Booking.com keeping an eye on price changes can make a difference. Tour operators often release vacation packages for the summer with significant discounts. These packages can include flights, accommodation and sometimes even meals and activities.
