A new report by The Data Appeal Company, the leading tourism intelligence firm part of the Almawave Group, by analysing thousands of reviews, OTA rates, and digital traces, reveals how the Holy Year reshaped tourism, visitor experience, and the global perception of Rome. The Jubilee ultimately redirected visitor flows, spread spending across flexible accommodation types, and enhanced the perception of Christianity’s symbolic sites. Although traditionally popular attractions such as the Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, and Pantheon remained on the podium, Vatican landmarks saw unprecedented growth. St Peter’s Basilica experienced a remarkable +93% increase in digital traces, while maintaining an exceptionally high Sentiment Score of 94.5/100. Much of this growth was likely fuelled by Jubilee pilgrims coming specifically to cross the Holy Door, a key rite available only during the Holy Year. In parallel, the Vatican Museums recorded a more moderate yet significant rise with +10% in digital traces and a Sentiment Score of 89.7/100, up 2.4 points from 2024.

Officials plan to admit travellers from countries with “a good epidemiological situation,” as well as those who have had two doses of an EU-approved vaccine.

The European Travel Commission and STR have signed a partnership which will see them serve the growing needs of European destination management organisations.

The European Travel Commission has published a report quantifying the potential impacts of visa facilitation for Chinese travellers on European tourism.

Europe, as a single destination, has been named the Official Partner Destination of ITB China 2017. The news comes following an agreement signed by David Axiotis, general manager ITB China, and Eduardo Santander, executive director at the European Travel Commission.

Airline passengers have been give new rights under guidelines unveiled by the European Commission. They include the right to be rerouted with rival carriers if travellers are delayed for more than 12 hours.