TOURISM – Israel aims for the return of Italian tourists

More than 17 million euros have been allocated to improve infrastructure in Israel’s northern region, alongside upgrades to Jerusalem’s street lighting and targeted interventions in the Old City’s alleys in Safed. These are among the investments announced by the Israeli government to revive tourism in 2025.
In the Jubilee year, the aim is to restore the “normal” flow of pilgrimages to the country. “But we are also interested in general tourism: the situation is improving, airlines are resuming flights, and optimism is growing as a result,” said Kalanit Goren Perry, a representative of the Israel National Tourism Office. She spoke to Pagine Ebraiche on the sidelines of an event at Rome’s Jewish Museum dedicated to promotion projects linked to the Jubilee.
Among the initiatives announced is an exhibition in May 2025 marking the 60th anniversary of the Israel Museum, during which the Great Isaiah Scroll will be on display once again. By May, all airlines are expected to resume full operations. “Some will restart in January, others in February or March. Before the war, there were about 100 weekly flights from Italy to Israel. The goal is to return to those levels as soon as possible, with nationwide coverage from northern Italy to Sicily,” Goren Perry explained.
Italy remains a “traditional” market for Israeli tourism, which reached a record-breaking five million annual visitors before the pandemic. In this context, Goren Perry highlighted that “the government’s decision to invest significant resources in enhancing the tourist offering sends a clear message: we are not just welcoming visitors but adopting a proactive and visionary approach.”
Israel’s new ambassador to Italy, Jonathan Peled, also attended the presentation of the 2025 projects, emphasizing the deep historical ties between Italy and Israel. “Rome and Jerusalem have been connected for centuries, and the Jubilee can further strengthen these economic and historical links,” he said.
At the event’s opening, Victor Fadlun, president of the Jewish Community of Rome, expressed relief that “we can finally talk about tourism in Israel again, focusing on its unique qualities and beauty.” The Jubilee, noted UCEI President Noemi Di Segni, “can be an opportunity to engage with the Jewish roots of Christianity, which are reflected in these itineraries.” Di Segni described it as a path of “religious coherence,” adding, “this is the right time” to reinforce such a message.

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