Rome has long been known for its historical significance, cultural heritage and gastronomic delights. In recent years, however, the Italian capital has become an increasingly important player in the luxury hospitality sector. With its rich history and vibrant culture, Rome is attracting an ever-growing number of international investors and continues to solidify its position as one of the leading luxury destinations in Europe. Today, it ranks second in Europe for the number of five-star hotel rooms, only behind London. This milestone marks an exciting chapter in Rome’s evolution as a luxury destination for both business and leisure travellers alike.
According to a recent Deloitte report, the city’s luxury hospitality market is on the verge of even greater growth. New hotel openings in the coming years are expected to reshape the luxury hotel scene, offering more options and expanding the city’s appeal to a discerning clientele. Rome is no longer just a tourist hotspot; it is quickly becoming a global magnet for investment in the high-end travel sector.
Rome boasts over 500 five-star hotels, a significant figure that continues to rise as the city adds even more luxury accommodations. By 2026, the Italian capital is set to welcome 14 new high-end properties, which will contribute over 1,500 additional rooms to the city’s already impressive inventory. Among the most anticipated openings are two iconic names in luxury hospitality: Mandarin Oriental and Four Seasons. Both will set up shop in the heart of the city, further elevating Rome’s status as a premier luxury destination.
The planned investment in new hotels is substantial,
with €400 million earmarked for these new structures. This significant sum
demonstrates that the luxury market in Rome still has substantial room for
growth. The addition of these high-end properties will help meet the increasing
demand for exclusive stays and allow the city to cater to the ever-growing
number of wealthy travellers seeking premium experiences.
Rome as a Hub for Luxury Hospitality Investments
Rome has emerged as the leading destination in Italy
for luxury hospitality investments. More than 45% of all hotel sector
investments in Italy are now focused on the luxury segment, with Rome at the
heart of this boom. In the first half of 2025 alone, capital flows in the city
surpassed €1.7 billion. These investments are expected to continue rising, as
new projects are planned not only in the city centre but also in the exclusive resorts of the surrounding Lazio region and beyond.
The Lazio region is renowned for its blend of culture,
natural beauty, and historical charm. With its historic villages, coastal
areas, and vast natural parks, it offers a diverse range of options for luxury
travellers. This combination of culture, nature, and exclusive resorts makes
Lazio an ideal setting for further investment in the luxury hospitality sector.
A Record-Breaking
Year for Luxury Arrivals in Rome
In 2024, Rome saw approximately 4.7 million arrivals
in the luxury tourism segment. The city continues to attract high-end visitors,
with an average stay that broke records, standing at an impressive 4.1 nights
per visit. This shift indicates that Rome is no longer merely a place for short
trips, but a growing hub for extended stays in the luxury market. As the demand
for more exclusive and extended stays continues to rise, the city is becoming a
primary destination for affluent tourists seeking exceptional experiences.
This increase in luxury tourism is a clear reflection
of the city’s transition from a traditional tourist destination to the global
capital of luxury hospitality. The growing demand for extended stays also
highlights the city’s ability to cater to wealthy travellers looking for
longer, more immersive experiences.
Projected Growth
in Luxury Hospitality Revenues
The outlook for Rome’s luxury hospitality sector is
incredibly positive. Over the next three years, revenues from the luxury
segment are expected to grow at an annual rate between 6% and 20%. This growth
will be driven by the expansion of high-end properties and the increasing
number of visitors flocking to the city for luxury experiences. As the city
strengthens its appeal and broadens its offering of exclusive accommodations
and services, Rome will continue to be a major player in the global luxury
tourism market.
In addition to the revenue growth, the luxury
hospitality boom in Rome is expected to generate significant economic benefits
for the city. This expansion is not just about new hotels and accommodations;
it is set to transform the urban economy, creating thousands of new jobs and
opportunities for local businesses. Over 53% of investors have already
committed to allocating more than €100 million to new projects, further
reinforcing the confidence in Rome’s growing luxury market.
Rome’s Future in
Luxury Hospitality: A Bright Horizon
Rome is entering a period of great excitement, with
new hotel openings and substantial investments laying the foundation for a
luxury hospitality revolution. The city’s reputation as a hub for exclusive
experiences is set to continue expanding, with major international hotel brands
enhancing their presence in the city. The growing demand for high-end
properties is a testament to the appeal of Rome as a destination for both
business and leisure travel, and the city is quickly establishing itself as one
of the world’s top capitals for luxury hospitality.
This transformation is not just about the number of
five-star hotels or luxury resorts being built; it is about the city’s ability
to evolve, adapt, and meet the demands of an ever more discerning clientele.
Rome is on track to become a global leader in luxury tourism, where elegance
and performance meet in the heart of this timeless city.
Conclusion: Rome’s
Position as a Global Luxury Destination
With its rich cultural heritage, breathtaking
architecture, and world-class cuisine, Rome has long been a destination of
choice for travellers seeking an extraordinary experience. Now, the city is
taking its place among the world’s most sought-after luxury hospitality
destinations. With the rise of new hotel openings, substantial investments, and
an increase in the number of luxury travellers, Rome’s future as a global
capital for luxury tourism is secured. As the city writes a new chapter in its
illustrious history, it continues to solidify its reputation as a magnet for
international investors and high-end travellers alike.
Tags: Deloitte Rome Global Luxury Destination Luxury Hospitality hotels
