Rome – A wave of aspiring tour guides has overwhelmed the first national competition announced by the Ministry of Tourism. With over 25 applications submitted, the announcement has far exceeded initial expectations, which predicted around 10 applications. A veritable assault, a sign of a sector in turmoil and a profession that is once again attractive.
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A competition that has been awaited for years
The wait for this competition was palpable, after years of uncertainty and failed reforms. In fact, since 2020, access to the profession was blocked, waiting for a reform that finally saw the light in 2023. The new legislation introduced an annual national competition, open to anyone with a high school diploma, with a participation fee of 10 euros.
A three-stage selection process
The competition is divided into three tests: a written test with 80 multiple-choice questions, an oral test to assess knowledge of written subjects and foreign languages, and a technical-practical test, a simulation of a guided tour in Italian and a foreign language. Only those who pass all three tests will be able to access the national list of tourist guides, managed by the Ministry of the Interior.
A reform that brings clarity
The reform also introduced a national list that can be consulted online, where 14 qualified guides are already registered. The platform allows you to check educational qualifications, specializations, language skills and professional updates. All guides, both the "old" and the new ones, will have to attend at least 50 hours of training every three years and have an identification card.
An evolving sector
The reform marks a turning point for the sector, after years of fragmentation and uncertainty. Until 2013, guides were limited to specific provinces and languages, while European law 97/2013 had liberalized the sector, opening the doors to the national and European territory. However, the lack of an adaptation of the Italian legislation had created a void, filled only now with the national competition and the online list.
An opportunity for Italian tourism
The boom in applications for the competition is a positive sign for Italian tourism, which will be able to count on qualified and up-to-date professionals. The reform, in fact, aims to guarantee high standards and enhance the figure of the tourist guide, a key role in promoting the cultural and artistic heritage of the country.
Article published on 27 February 2025 - 17:48
This contest seems like a good idea, but with so many participants, I don't know if everyone can really qualify. The selection is difficult and I hope that in the end there will be competent guides.