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Dario Franceschini, Italy's Minister of Culture and Tourism, announced that the country will not welcome foreign visitors until the end of this year. The reopening of borders will depend on the pandemic situation and the policies of each country. According to the plan, Italian citizens will be able to travel between regions from May 18th.
Numerous museums and popular tourist destinations are currently closed, although the government is expected to gradually lift restrictions in some places in early May. Among them, the Colosseum and the ancient city of Pompeii will reopen to visitors. Hotels are not required to close by the government, but due to the lack of tourists, only a few establishments remain operational.
Although the decision is bad news for Italy's 2020 tourist season, some in the industry still have hope for positive outcomes. "For example, cruise ships, which have been a major headache in Venice. As far as I know, not a single ship has docked in Venice this year. The port authorities will now have a few years to rethink their business model," local tour guide Luisella Romeo stated.
Meanwhile, tour guide Agnes Crawford offered a different prediction: "When travel resumes, tourists will no longer want to flock to crowded places; they may prefer quieter locations, seeking unique experiences. Fortunately, Italy has countless such places."
