What month do Italians take off? A guide to Italy in August

Italians take off the entire month of August for summer vacation. This annual shutdown is called “Ferragosto”, an important cultural tradition. August is when Italy truly slows down.

When does Italy shut down for vacation?

August is when most businesses, shops, and restaurants close in Italy, particularly during the weeks around Ferragosto, which falls on August 15. The shutdown usually lasts from around August 1 to August 20, with the peak closure dates being August 11-16.

Do people in Italy take August off?

Yes, it’s very common for Italians to take most or all of August off for vacation. Most companies completely close or operate with a skeleton crew. Schools are closed, and many family-run shops and restaurants also shut down.

Does Italy take a month off?

While not the entire month, a good portion of August is when Italy virtually shuts down. The vacation period centres around Ferragosto on August 15, which is a national holiday. Italians take off about 2-3 weeks in total to enjoy their summer holidays.

What dates does Italy shut down in August?

The peak shutdown dates are August 11-16, with many businesses closing for the entire two weeks from August 1-20. Most of the major cities like Rome, Florence, Venice and Milan become noticeably quieter throughout August.

Why does Italy shut down for 2 weeks?

Ferragosto on August 15 is a public holiday marking the peak of summer. Italians get together with family to enjoy their main summer vacation. It’s an important cultural tradition to relax and recharge during the hottest month of the year.

Is Italy better in August or September?

September is better for lighter crowds, as Italy reopens after the August shutdown. You’ll have more options and a less crowded, cooler experience. However, August offers a unique glimpse into a quieter side of Italy.

How do you avoid crowds in Italy in August?

Avoid the big cities that quiet down. Head to the beaches and islands, smaller hill towns, or places like The Dolomites. Rent a villa and relax like the Italians do. Don’t plan major sightseeing; just soak up the sun at a slower pace.

Is Rome shut down in August?

Rome certainly gets quieter in August but remains open. Sights like The Vatican and Colosseum stay open, with later hours to compensate for the heat. Head there early to beat crowds. Many neighbourhood shops and restaurants will be closed.

Is Italy very crowded in August?

The big cities can be crowded with tourists in August, though Italians themselves are on vacation. Head to the mountains, beaches, parks and lakes to enjoy summer activities. Overall, Italy doesn’t feel as crowded as in the peak months of May and June.

When does Italy reopen after August shutdown?

Most businesses and restaurants will reopen in the major cities after August 20 or so. However, some smaller establishments may remain closed until early September. The first two weeks of September are a great time to visit, as things open back up, but crowds are still minimal.

What to expect in Rome in August?

Rome gets noticeably quieter in August, though the major sights stay open, and crowds are still present. Many neighbourhood shops and trattorias will be closed. Head out early to beat the heat and crowds. The atmosphere is more relaxed, and the city feels emptied out.

Does Italy close for all of August?

No, Italy doesn’t completely close down for the entire month of August. The major shutdown period is approximately August 1-20, centred around the Ferragosto holiday on August 15. Most businesses will reopen in some capacity after August 20.

Is mid-August or late August better in Italy?

Mid-August is when the major cities are most quiet, so it’s appealing if you want to experience an emptier Italy. Late August starts seeing more reopen and tourists return. Early September is ideal for lighter crowds but availability of attractions.

What is open in August in Italy?

Major attractions and sightseeing stay open in August, with reduced hours in the intense midday heat. Beaches, lakes and outdoor areas are lively. Smaller neighbourhoods and businesses are closed, but you can still find open shops and restaurants.

Is early August busy in Italy?

Early August is still considered the high season, so the major cities can still be busy with tourists in the first half of the month. As Italians depart for holidays mid-month, places become noticeably less crowded and feel sleepier.

Should you avoid Italy in August?

August offers a unique glimpse of Italy in holiday mode. You can avoid crowds by not focusing on crowded sightseeing. Instead, head to smaller towns, beaches, lakes or the countryside. Expect closures but not a complete shutdown.

What is the weather like in Italy in August?

August is the hottest month of the year, with temperatures in the 30s Celsius and quite humid. With less crowds, sightseeing is less appealing. Focus on outdoor activities, relaxing by the water or countryside, and avoiding the midday sun.

What looks like Italy in summer | Puglia vacation

What does Ferragosto mean in English?

Ferragosto translates to “Augustus” in English. It refers to the Italian public holiday on August 15 that marks the peak of the summer vacation season.

The roots of Ferragosto date back to 18 BC, when the Roman emperor Augustus (Augusto in Italian) declared the holiday to celebrate the harvest and rest in the hottest month. So, both the month of August and this holiday Ferragosto derive from “Augustus” in English.

What is the hottest month in Italy?

August is typically the hottest month of the year in Italy, with average temperatures ranging from the mid-20s to mid-30s Celsius, depending on the region.

The week leading up to Ferragosto in mid-August is normally when Italy experiences its hottest weather and most intense heat waves annually.

Do Italians get summer off?

Yes, Italians enjoy long summer holidays in August due to the cultural tradition of Ferragosto and the national holiday on August 15th.

It’s very common for Italians to take 2-3 weeks off in August to spend time with family, travel domestically, and enjoy the summer break. Most businesses and commerce completely closed down during this period.

So August is when Italians get an extended summer break to relax and recharge during the peak vacation season. The holiday originates from ancient Rome but persists as an important modern Italian tradition.

Italy travel tips for summer

• Best travel tips for Italy
• What looks like visiting Italy in summer
• Off the beaten path places in Italy
• Italy travel insurance on a budget

Best travel tips for Italy

Here are some of the best travel tips for visiting Italy:

Get off the beaten path: Avoid crowded tourist hotspots by venturing into lesser-known small towns and villages. The beauty of Italy is around every corner if you know where to look.

Indulge in the food: Don’t hold back when it comes to sampling the amazing cuisine. Try classic dishes like pizza, pasta, risotto, and gelato from different regions. Food is central to Italian culture.

Learn some basic Italian: Brush up on common phrases and greetings. Italians appreciate when visitors make an effort to speak even a few words. Learning “please”, “thank you”, and “excuse me” can go a long way.

Visit the islands: Venture off the mainland to visit gorgeous islands like Sicily, Sardinia, Capri, and Ischia. The pace is more relaxed, and you’ll discover a different side of Italy.

Allow for delays: Leave ample time when travelling by train or bus in Italy. Delays are common, so don’t cram too much into your schedule and get stressed.

Dress appropriately for churches: Avoid bare shoulders and short shorts or skirts when visiting churches and religious sites, which are abundant in Italy. Be respectful of the dress code.

Try an agriturismo: For a unique and affordable stay, book an agriturismo, which is a farm stay or villa in the countryside. You’ll soak up the rural vibe and delicious home cooking.

Explore by Vespa: Channel your inner Italian and zip around cities like Rome on the iconic Vespa scooters. It’s a classic way to feel like a local and cover ground efficiently.

What looks like visiting Italy in the summer

Here’s what to expect when visiting Italy in the summer:

• Hot and sunny weather: Prepare for temperatures in the 30s Celsius and very sunny days, especially in southern Italy. Use sun protection, stay hydrated, and escape the midday sun.
• Peak crowds: Popular cities like Rome, Florence, and Venice will be packed in summer. Book accommodations well in advance and expect long lines at top attractions.
• Outdoor dining: Restaurants and cafes set up outdoor seating so you can soak up the summer ambience. Dining al fresco is a quintessential Italian summer experience.
• Beach time: Head to the seaside communities to join Italians relaxing by the water. Swim, sunbathe, or enjoy seaside cocktails and gelato.
• Summer sales: July and August bring clearance sales in cities throughout Italy. Shoppers can score deals on fashion, leather goods, and other made-in-Italy wares.
• Open-air concerts/events: From Verona’s Opera Festival to Roma Cinema City, summer comes alive with open-air entertainment. See what’s on and join the festive atmosphere.
• Vibrant nightlife: Italians stay out late in summer to party at lively bars, clubs, and piazzas. The night doesn’t get going until midnight in some places!
• Peak produce/gelato: Enjoy abundant ripe tomatoes, stone fruits, and other seasonal produce. It’s also the best time for dollops of creamy gelato.

Best places to visit in Italy in summer for beaches off the beaten path

Here are some of my top recommendations for beautiful, off-the-beaten-path beaches in Italy to visit during the summer:

• Spiaggia dei Conigli, Lampedusa: This gorgeous sandy cove with crystal clear waters is nested on an idyllic Sicilian island closer to Africa than Italy.
• Cala Goloritzé, Sardinia: Reached by boat or hike, this stunning turquoise bay backed by limestone cliffs is well worth the effort.
• Fiordo di Furore, Amalfi Coast: This dramatic fjord indented coastline features towering rock walls and tiny pebble beaches accessed via steep steps.
• Baia di Ieranto, Sorrento Peninsula: Swim in the protected waters of this bay inside the island nature reserve, far from Amalfi Coast crowds.
• Spiaggia La Cinta, San Teodoro, Sardinia – White sand and shallow emerald waters make this Sardinian beach ideal for families looking to escape.
• Cala Luna, Golfo di Orosei, Sardinia: Small, rugged coves for swimming and exploring within this staggeringly beautiful 10 km-long gulf.
• Spiaggia di Guidaloca, Scopello: This wild bay flanked by rocks lies next to Scopello’s famous tonnara and has an untouched feel.
• Spiaggia Capo Rizzuto, Calabria: Escape to this long sandy beach punctuated by dramatic sandstone sea cliffs in Calabria’s Marine protected area.
• Spiaggia di Calamosche, Sicily: Palm trees line this long sandy beach whose dazzling turquoise waters resemble the Caribbean.

Best Italy Travel Insurance

Here are some key reasons it’s important to have travel insurance when visiting Italy in the summer:

• Medical coverage: If you get sick or injured while travelling in Italy, medical care can be very expensive for a foreign visitor. Insurance provides coverage for treatment and medications.
• Emergency evacuation: If you suffer a major injury or illness, insurance can cover the high cost of getting evacuated back home for proper treatment.
• Trip cancellation: If you unexpectedly cancel your Italy trip due to covered circumstances like illness or injury, you can recoup prepaid, non-refundable costs.
• Lost/delayed baggage: Airline mishaps are common in summer. Insurance can help reimburse you if bags are lost or delayed getting to Italy.
• Trip delays: Strikes, transit issues, or bad weather can delay travel plans. Insurance provides coverage for extra costs like accommodations, meals and transport.
• Trip interruption: Unforeseen circumstances at home could force you to cut your Italy trip short. Insurance lets you cancel the remainder of the trip.
• Damage/theft: You’re covered if personal belongings like cameras get damaged, lost or stolen during the trip.
• 24/7 assistance: Insurers provide 24-hour emergency travel assistance while abroad.

Travel insurance gives valuable peace of mind for unforeseen hiccups that can strike during Italy’s travels. Don’t leave home without it! CHECK OUR SUGGESTED TRAVEL INSURANCE.