Italy is poised to take center stage in the global travel and tourism arena as it prepares to host the 25th Global Summit of the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) from September 28 to 30, 2025, in Rome. This flagship event, bringing together leading figures from both public and private sectors, promises to be a pivotal gathering for shaping the industry’s future.
Held at the iconic Auditorium Parco della Musica Ennio Morricone, the summit is expected to attract eminent voices across government and industry to engage in strategic discussions around sustainability, technological innovation, and economic expansion.
A standout feature of this year’s summit is Italy’s robust delegation: from formidable tourism executives to cultural visionaries. Notable speakers include Manfredi Lefebvre, WTTC Chair-Elect and travel industry titan, and Daniela Santanchè, Italy’s Minister of Tourism, who will both underscore Italy’s global tourism leadership. Additional contributors such as Alessandra Necci (Estense Galleries), Gabriele Burgio (Alpitour World), Pierfrancesco Vago (MSC Cruises), Elisabetta Fabri (Starhotels), Luca Cordero di Montezemolo (Italo), and Nerio Alessandri (Technogym) will enrich the discourse.
Key themes throughout the summit include sustainable tourism, artificial intelligence, destination stewardship, and the evolution of aviation—reflecting WTTC’s long-standing commitment to fostering a resilient, inclusive, and forward-looking tourism industry.
The timing of the event coincides with a banner year for tourism in Italy. WTTC’s Economic Impact Research estimates international visitor spending to reach a record €60.4 billion in 2025, with the sector supporting approximately 3.2 million jobs and contributing substantially to national economic output. The projected growth underscores tourism’s vital role in Italy’s economy and its potential to create further investment opportunities.
Moreover, ahead of the summit, WTTC released a six-step plan urging governments to adopt smarter, long-term tourism management strategies. This initiative aims to address increasing challenges such as overtourism and ensure sustainable growth.
In summary, the WTTC Global Summit 2025 in Rome offers more than a networking platform—it is a compelling stage for Italy to showcase its tourism prowess, bolster global leadership, and steer the industry toward a sustainable and innovative future.
