Important dates for anyone planning a trip to Italy this year

You guessed it, or maybe not. Italy has one of the most packed conference agendas of any city in the world in any one month, say January you'll find conferences on Feline Dentistry to Drug Tourism, and you were wondering why the hotels were full, right? Of course, not all of these conferences are expected to attract millions of visitors to the city of Rome. I mean, how many feline dentists are there? However, I just want to make it purrrfectly (pun intended) clear that there are definitely a few events that you will want to keep an eye out for.

Hotel rates can nearly triple during these dates if you are booking any type of vacation, short or long. Don't get upset if you can't find a room under $300 a night; it's just a case of supply and demand, and you can be sure that prices will come down. Just be aware of the following. Book early if you plan to attend.

When is conference season?

In Italy, as in many other countries, conferences and exhibitions tend to be spread throughout the year. However, there are certain periods when they are more concentrated. Here's a general breakdown of the "conference season" in Italy:

1. Spring (March to June): This is a particularly active period for conferences and trade fairs. The weather is pleasant. This makes it a popular time for both national and international participants. Major cities such as Milan, Rome, Bologna and Florence host a variety of events during these months.

2. Autumn (September to November): The conference season picks up again in the fall after summer vacations and the hot month of August. This is another peak period for major events, exhibitions and trade shows.

3. Winter (December to February): The winter months, especially December with the holiday season, tend to be quieter in terms of conferences. However, especially in industries looking to kick off the new year with product launches or annual meetings, January and February can see some activity.

4. Summer (July-August): Summer, especially August, is Italy's traditional holiday period. Many Italians go on vacation during this time. Many businesses are closed or have reduced hours. As a result, there are less conferences and trade shows during these months. 

To summarize, the main "conference seasons" in Italy are spring (March to June) and fall (September to November), with some activity in the winter months. Summer, especially August, is the quietest time. However, it's important to note that specific industries may have their own peak periods, so it's always a good idea to check the calendars of specific industries if you have a particular focus.

What international events should you be aware of?

Milano Design Week (Salone del Mobile Milano)  16 - 23 April 2024

One of the most prestigious design and furniture fairs in the world held annually in Milan. More information here.

What's available in Milano

Venice Biennale - Saturday 20 April to Sunday 24 November, 2024 (pre-opening on April 17, 18 and 19)

An international art exhibition held every two years in Venice, showcasing contemporary art, cinema, music, theatre, and architecture. More information here.

What's available in Venice

Vinitaly 14-17 April 2024

Held in Verona, this is one of the largest wine exhibitions in the world, drawing wine professionals from all over. More information here.

Check the hotel rates now

Pitti Immagine Uomo 9 - 12 January 2024 and 11 - 14 June 2024

A major event for menswear and fashion accessories, held biannually in Florence. More information here.

Check what's available 9-12 January 2024

Check what's available 11-14 January 2024

FEBS (Federation of European Biochemical Societies) Congress 29 June – 3 July 2024

A major gathering in the field of molecular life sciences, which has been held in Italy in the past. More information here.

Check rates now

Venice Film Festival - August 28, 2024 - Saturday, September 7

One of the renowned film festivals in Italy, drawing international filmmakers and enthusiasts. More information here.

What's available in Venice

Bologna Children's Book Fair  8-11 April 2024

A leading event for children's publishing and multimedia products, attracting international publishers, authors, and illustrators. More information here.

What's available in Bologna

Sigep 20 - 24 January 2024

An international trade show in Rimini for artisan gelato, pastry, bakery, and coffee. More information here.

See what's available on these dates

Taste 3-5 February 2024

An event in Florence that showcases Italian taste and food lifestyle, gathering many quality food producers. More information here.

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Merano WineFestival in November

One of Italy's most exclusive wine events held in the town of Merano. More information here.

What's available?

Vinum April 25^th, 26^th, 27^th, 28^th - May 1^st - May 4^th, 5^th 2024

A celebration of the wines of the Langhe and Roero regions in Alba, known for Barolo, Barbaresco, and more. More information here.

Check the hotels rates

CIBUS - International Food Exhibition 7 May - 10 May 2024

Held in Parma, CIBUS is a showcase of the best of Italian food products to the international market, connecting Italian producers with global buyers, distributors, and retailers. More information here.

What's available

Expodental Meeting 18-20 May 2024

The leading dental exhibition in Italy, showcasing the latest advancements in dental technologies, equipment, and materials. Organized by UNIDI – Italian Dental Industries Association and held in Rimini. More information here.

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Artigiano in Fiera 2-10 December 2023

An international craft fair held in Milan, showcasing the best of handmade crafts from around the world. More information here.

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Rimini Wellness - La Fiera del Levante - 30 May - 2 June 2024

A popular exhibition dedicated to fitness, wellness, and sport, held in Rimini. More information here.

Check out what's available

Motor Bike Expo 19-21 January 2024

An event for motorcycle enthusiasts held in Verona. More information here.

Check what's available

Fiera Internazionale del Tartufo Bianco d'Alba until December 3rd

The International White Truffle Fair in Alba. More information here.

Places to stay in Alba

Salone di Nautica (Genoa Boat Show)  19 - 24 September 2024

A major boat show held in Genoa. More information here.

What's available

BIT - La Borsa Internazionale del Turismo 4-6 February 2024

Italy's main international tourism exchange in Milan. More information here.

Our choice of hotels in Milano

Apimell (Dates expected 31 October - 2 November 2024)

Apimell in Piacenza is an international trade fair dedicated to the world of beekeeping. It's a significant event for professionals, showcasing beekeeping equipment, materials, honey, and other bee products. More information here.

Check hotels in Piacenza

Cersaie 23-27 September 2024

Cersaie in Bologna is a renowned international exhibition of ceramic tile and bathroom furnishings. It draws professionals from all over the world to showcase and explore the latest trends, designs, and technologies in the sector. More information here.

Our choice of hotels in Bologna