Goriška’s Tourism Jumps 33 % in First Half of 2025 ECOC Effects
In the first half of this year, Nova Gorica and Gorizia have seen a remarkable boost in both culture and tourism, recording roughly one-third more arrivals and overnight stays than in the same period last year. This impressive growth is largely driven by the European Capital of Culture, which has shone an international spotlight on the twin cities and heightened interest in their cultural treasures. In addition to the vibrant ECOC events, top attractions drawing visitors include the symbolic Europe Square, the hilltop Kostanjevica Monastery and the newly renovated Gorizia Castle.
Between January and June, the municipalities of Nova Gorica and the Italian city of Gorizia recorded an impressive 33% increase in tourist arrivals and overnight stays compared to the same period last year. Mayor Samo Turel noted that in May and June alone, arrivals surged by nearly 30% year-on-year, while overnight stays rose by 33% in May and 30% in June. From the official opening of the European Capital of Culture on 8 February to 20 July, the twin cities welcomed around 42,000 arrivals (+19%) and 80,000 overnight stays (+20%).
The majority of visitors to the Goriška region during this period came from Italy (19,900 arrivals and 34,700 overnight stays), followed by domestic travellers (4,900 arrivals and 7,400 overnight stays), guests from Germany (2,300 arrivals and 4,900 overnight stays) and visitors from Austria (2,100 arrivals and 3,500 overnight stays).
Europe Square emerged as the most visited location, often serving as a key stop for buses and private vehicles. Other popular attractions included the historic Kostanjevica Monastery, panoramic Sabotin Hill, medieval Rihemberk Castle, and the newly renovated Gorizia Castle. Cultural events proved a major draw – from the much-talked-about Andy Warhol exhibition to an array of concerts, sports events, and performances, especially those directly linked to the ECOC.
Local authorities in both cities stress that the tourism upswing underscores the power of collaboration between cultural initiatives and local businesses. Mayor Turel emphasised that the renewed connection between the two cities, fostered by the European Capital of Culture, confirms the ability of culture-driven projects to significantly boost tourism and drive economic growth across the region.
New GO! 2025 information point at EPICentre
July saw the opening of a new GO! 2025 information point at the emerging EPICentre – a hub uniting Nova Gorica and Gorizia. Open daily from 10 am to 6 pm, including weekends, the venue will also host the official European Capital of Culture café – Café EPIC – which is set to open its doors on 28 August.
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