Beyond classic programs, such as city breaks, mountain, sea, and circuits, Italian tourists are starting to be increasingly attracted to Romania by pilgrimages, especially in areas such as Bucovina and Maramures, stated Gheorghe Fodoreanu, owner of the Invitation Romania agency, specialized in incoming tourism, who is participating in the Borsa Internazionale del Turismo, BIT, organized in Milan, Italy, from February 11-13.
At the fair, the tour operator noted the growing interest of Italians in religious tourism in Romania, despite the fact that they are Catholic and our churches are Orthodox.
Fodoreanu estimates that in 2015, about 150 groups with a minimum of 20 people each arrived on pilgrimage in Romania, totaling over 3,000 tourists.
Italians spend between 58 and 65 EUR/day in Romania on accommodation, meals, and transfers. For an average one-week circuit, the expenses of Italian pilgrims exceed 1.2 million EUR.
Gheorghe Fodoreanu believes that this niche could be exploited and promoted not only in Italy.
Source: Profit
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are Italian tourists attracted to Romanian monasteries?
Italian tourists are increasingly drawn to religious tourism and pilgrimages in regions like Bucovina and Maramures due to their cultural and spiritual value.
How many Italian tourists visited Romania for pilgrimages?
In 2015, it was estimated that over 3,000 Italian tourists visited Romania as part of organized religious pilgrimage groups.
What is the average daily spend of an Italian pilgrim in Romania?
An Italian pilgrim spends between 58 and 65 EUR per day on accommodation, meals, and transfers during their stay in Romania.