Italy travel plans altered by price hikes as Dutch tourists adapt to local customs

A June‑July 2026 online survey of 540 Dutch and Belgian respondents found that 26% of Dutch travelers are changing their Italy vacations because of high inflation, while 74% say rising costs have no impact. Among those adjusting their trips, 11% shorten their stay, 9% opt for cheaper accommodation and 5% change the destination. Overall, 70% of respondents travelled last year, with 37% visiting Italy, which remains the top foreign destination after France. Popular Italian regions include Tuscany, Apulia, Umbria, Piedmont, Veneto, Sardinia and Emilia‑Romagna, while the Lake Gardasee area has declined in appeal.

A separate travel‑style guide advises Dutch visitors to respect Italian customs: shops close for the "pausa di pranzo" between 13:00‑16:00, restaurants typically serve dinner after 19:30, and cappuccino is traditionally ordered only before 11:00 a.m. Following these etiquette tips helps tourists blend in and avoid cultural faux pas during their Italian holiday.