Easter travel sees surge in bookings and spending

Some 11 million Italians are set to travel at Easter and the turnover for the holidays will be some five billion euros, according to a the survey carried out by Tecnè market research institute on behalf of Federalberghi hotel group.

There will be 11.3 million Italians on vacation, of whom 2.7 million will opt for an extended break, encouraged by the sequence of the holidays of April 25 (Liberation Day) and May 1 (Labour Day) which this year fall close to the Easter holidays, CE Report quotes ANSA.

The "major departures" are scheduled for Good Friday, the day on which five million Italians will begin their holiday period, waiting to unwrap the traditional colomba Easter dove cake.

The preferred destination remains the Bel Paese for 88% of those interviewed, while the chance of a prolonged "break" will push many (12%) to choose foreign destinations.

"First and foremost, it will be a stay at the home of relatives or friends that will guide the bulk of choices, but a hotel solution will also register an increase, confirming its solidity among travellers' preferences," said the survey.

"Relaxation, walks, food and wine experiences and contact with nature will be the main elements that will guide the activities of Italians for these holidays, mainly dedicated to rest."