The Salento, a region in southern Apulia known for its crystal-clear sea, golden beaches, and remarkable local culture, continues to see steady growth in the tourism sector. In 2024, off-season tourism policies and investments in infrastructure have created new opportunities to extend the tourist season beyond the traditional summer months. This transformation not only brings economic benefits but also has a positive impact on the real estate market, creating new investment opportunities. Let’s take a closer look at tourism data, off-season initiatives, major non-summer events, benefits for the real estate sector, and ongoing infrastructure projects.
Tourism Data in Salento in 2024
In 2024, tourism in Salento reached new records, with a 15% increase in arrivals compared to the previous year. Growth is evident not only in peak summer months (June, July, and August) but also in shoulder periods like April, May, September, and October. This achievement was made possible by a strategy focused on showcasing the region even in less hot months, leveraging cultural, culinary, and natural aspects that attract a target of tourists interested in an authentic and diverse experience.
Visitor Origin and Profile
Most visitors come from Italy, but Salento also attracts foreign tourists, particularly from Germany, France, the United Kingdom, and the United States. Visitors are typically between 25 and 50 years old, looking for a blend of relaxation, culture, and outdoor activities. New air connections and an increasing availability of services even outside the peak season have helped boost the region’s appeal.
Tourism De-seasonalization: A Strategic Shift
De-seasonalization is a key strategy to make Salento a year-round destination. This policy enables the distribution of tourist flows over a longer period, easing pressure on the summer months and creating new income opportunities for local businesses. De-seasonalization not only enriches the tourism offering but also improves the quality of life for residents by creating stable jobs and supporting the local economy.
Off-Season Events in Salento
To encourage de-seasonalization, several events have been organized to attract visitors in autumn and spring:
- San Martino Festival (November): A popular event celebrating new wine paired with typical Salento gastronomic products, with village fairs and festivities.
- European Film Festival of Lecce (April or November): An event that draws film enthusiasts and professionals from across Europe, featuring screenings, workshops, and artist encounters.
- Salento Coast to Coast (May): A bike touring event through the villages of Salento’s inland areas, offering a slow and sustainable tourism experience.
- Corti a Sud (October): A short film festival held in the historic villages of the region, involving young talent and cinema enthusiasts.
- Autumn and Spring Markets and Food Festivals: Culinary events in inland villages that promote local products like extra virgin olive oil, cheese, and cured meats.
Benefits of De-seasonalization for the Real Estate Sector
Tourism de-seasonalization has had a positive impact on the Salento real estate market, making the area attractive for both national and international investors. Here are the main benefits:
- Increase in Demand for Vacation Rentals and Short-Term Lets: With year-round tourism, the demand for vacation rentals has grown, not only in summer but also in spring and autumn. Property owners can thus rent their properties for longer periods and earn a steady income instead of relying solely on the summer season.
- Growth in Property Value: Properties in tourist locations or near historic villages are seeing increased value, as demand is driven by both tourism and the arrival of new residents. Moreover, improved infrastructure, such as new rail connections, enhances the value of properties near stations or major roads.
- Opportunities for Restoration of Historic and Rural Properties: De-seasonalization is encouraging the restoration of ancient farmhouses, “masserie,” and “trulli,” transforming them into accommodation options that cater to tourists seeking authenticity. Investors are rediscovering Salento’s real estate heritage, converting historic buildings into B&Bs, agritourisms, and luxury vacation homes.
- Extension of the Rental Season: The ability to attract visitors year-round allows property owners to maintain high occupancy rates even outside peak season, boosting profitability.
New Infrastructure: Improved Railway Connections and Road Networks
To support tourism and enhance mobility, Salento is undergoing significant infrastructure projects, including the rail connection between Brindisi Airport and Lecce Station and the completion of the State Road 275.
Brindisi Airport – Lecce Railway Connection
One of the main obstacles for tourists choosing Salento is the lack of a direct connection between Brindisi Airport and Lecce, the gateway to the Salento peninsula. The new rail link project aims to address this gap, with shuttle trains connecting domestic and international flights arriving in Brindisi to the city of Lecce in under 30 minutes.
This connection will reduce the use of private cars, improving accessibility in Salento and promoting sustainable tourism. For international travelers, the convenience of a direct connection will make it easier to reach Salento, enhancing the region’s appeal to visitors from around the world.
Completion of the State Road 275
The State Road 275, also known as the “Maglie-Leuca,” is another key infrastructure to improve Salento’s road network. This long-awaited project involves the expansion and redevelopment of the road, which connects numerous towns and facilitates access to Capo di Leuca.
The realization of the State Road 275 will not only reduce travel times and traffic congestion but also allow for the distribution of tourist flows across the territory, improving accessibility to more remote locations. Additionally, this infrastructure represents a step forward for road safety, providing a more modern and secure communication route.
Conclusion
Thanks to de-seasonalization policies, off-season event organization, and infrastructure investments, Salento is establishing itself as a quality tourist destination capable of attracting visitors year-round. The growth in tourism and new opportunities in the real estate market signal a positive and sustainable development for the region.
The real estate sector directly benefits from this change, with an increase in demand for vacation homes and residential properties, growth in property values, and new investment opportunities in the restoration of historic buildings.