 |
Venice and China Strengthen Tourism Ties with Venice Week in Shanghai
Tourism and cultural cooperation between Italy and China continues to grow with the launch of “Venice Week” at Shanghai Pudong International Airport.
The promotional exhibition and interactive area opened at Terminal 2 of the airport and will remain active until March 20. Shanghai Pudong Airport handles approximately 35,000 to 40,000 passengers every day, offering an ideal platform to introduce Venice and the Veneto region to Chinese travelers.
A Partnership Between Venice and Shanghai Airports
The initiative was developed by the Shanghai Airport Authority as a gesture of hospitality and cooperation with Italian partners. It was created in collaboration with the Save Group, the company that operates the main airport hub in northeastern Italy.
This cooperation has already produced concrete results, including the launch of a direct flight between Venice and Shanghai operated by China Eastern Airlines.
The flight has performed strongly since its launch, with an average load factor exceeding 80 percent. Due to the strong demand, the number of weekly flights will increase to five per week starting March 29.
Strong Interest from Chinese Travelers
According to aviation data shared by the Save Group, the direct connection between the two cities has had a major influence on travel decisions.
Approximately 78 percent of Chinese passengers traveling to Venice said the availability of a direct flight influenced their choice of destination. In addition, for about 65 percent of these travelers, it was their first trip to Italy.
This demonstrates the importance of direct air connections in expanding tourism between Europe and Asia.
Gateway to Venice, the Dolomites and Veneto
Through the Venice Week exhibition space in Shanghai, tourism authorities are presenting Venice Marco Polo Airport as the main gateway not only to Venice itself but also to the wider Veneto region.
From the airport, visitors can reach the Dolomites mountain region within approximately two hours. The area is also home to nine UNESCO World Heritage Sites, making it one of the richest cultural landscapes in Europe.
Benefits for Northern Italy
The Venice–Shanghai route is particularly important for the economy of northern Italy. Data shows that about 96 percent of Italian passengers using the flight originate from the Veneto and Friuli regions, while a significant number of travelers also come from nearby Slovenia.
The route therefore serves as a strategic connection linking Italy’s northeastern regions directly with one of Asia’s largest travel markets.
Reciprocal Promotion Planned
In a further step to strengthen cooperation, Venice Airport plans to create a dedicated promotional space within its own terminal in autumn 2026.
This area will promote Shanghai and the surrounding region to Italian travelers, reciprocating the opportunity provided by Shanghai Airport and further strengthening tourism links between the two destinations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Venice Week in Shanghai?
Venice Week is a tourism promotion event held at Shanghai Pudong Airport to introduce Chinese travelers to Venice and the Veneto region.
Is there a direct flight between Venice and Shanghai?
Yes. China Eastern Airlines operates a direct flight between Venice Marco Polo Airport and Shanghai.
How popular is the Venice–Shanghai flight?
The flight has recorded a load factor of over 80 percent and will increase to five weekly services due to strong demand.
What regions can travelers visit from Venice Airport?
Travelers can easily reach Venice, the Dolomites and several UNESCO World Heritage sites across the Veneto region.
