Tech is no longer a new industry, nor is it a new normal. It’s here, it’s been here for decades, and it will be here until we aren’t anymore. It’s unfortunate, then, that tech remains a niche topic of conversation for so many – and that it doesn’t factor in nearly as often as it should when it comes to such topics as travel.
If you’re reading this, it’s because you’re looking towards your next international sojourn; you’re also looking to make it count, either as a tech industry professional or as a tech enthusiast hoping to broaden your horizons in more ways than one. And this guide is here to put one destination firmly in your view: Italy. As you read on, you’ll find out exactly why Italy is increasingly attractive to tech enthusiasts of every ilk, and how to build a trip that takes it all in.
Italy’s Tech Landscape
As with any leading European economy, Italy’s is rich in tech. Were London not already the de facto financial centre of the world, all signs point to Milan being next in line. Understandably, a great deal of these financial through-lines are tech industry-related, as a nascent startup scene continues to boom.
Milan isn’t the only city on the map for tech, either. Major innovation hubs abound, particularly in Turin and Rome – cities which appeal to international visitors for a variety of reasons beyond technology. With increased global attention on international collaboration in AI and digital innovation, it’s no surprise that international partners are setting their sites on cities beyond London.
Technology Events in Italy
Italy’s tech prowess is enough on its own to necessitate a visit – and we’ll get to the specifics of that shortly – but there are some more compelling reasons to consider Italy holidays in 2026. These reasons are, of course, the tech conventions Italy hosts each year.
Chief amongst these is EmTechItaly, a vital coming-together of experts across tech fields to discuss the future of an industry continuing its exponential growth. It takes place in Rome in April, and, with AI a major focus for tech brands globally, promises to be a crucible for new ideas. Italian Tech Week is another worth looking out for, being a sprawling week of events, speakers, satellite events and more opportunities to network with an industry far larger than your own localised bubble.
Startups, Research Centres, and University Links
Italy’s startup ecosystem is healthy, and only getting healthier. Urban centres like Milan and Turin are vital breeding grounds for new businesses. Meanwhile, research institutions at universities like the Italian Institute of Technology and the University of Bologna, are leading in their field; they foster unique and productive collaborations with international partners across the tech-industry spectrum, and attract visiting professionals – yourself included – accordingly.
