Public Holidays Italy

Last Updated on 26 August 2025 by Johan

Italy observes a rich calendar of public holidays that reflect its religious traditions, historical milestones, and regional identities. These holidays often affect business hours, public transport, and access to government services. For travelers, understanding both national and local observances is essential for planning visits to museums, restaurants, and cultural sites.

National Public Holidays in Italy

  • January 1 – New Year’s Day (Capodanno)
  • January 6 – Epiphany (Epifania)
  • Easter Sunday and Monday – dates vary
  • March 8 – International Women’s Day (Festa della Donna)
  • April 25 – Liberation Day (Festa della Liberazione)
  • May 1 – Labor Day (Festa dei Lavoratori)
  • First Sunday of June – Republic Day (Festa della Repubblica)
  • August 15 – Assumption of Mary (Ferragosto)
  • November 1 – All Saints’ Day (Ognissanti)
  • December 8 – Immaculate Conception (Immacolata Concezione)
  • December 25 – Christmas Day (Natale)
  • December 26 – St. Stephen’s Day (Santo Stefano)

Local tip: Ferragosto on August 15 is considered the peak of summer holidays. Most Italians head to coastal towns like Rimini, Viareggio, or Sorrento, and many businesses in inland cities temporarily close. Book accommodations well in advance if traveling during this period.

Regional Holidays by City

These holidays are observed locally and typically result in the closure of municipal offices and some businesses:

  • April 25 – Venice (also marks the Feast of Saint Mark, the city’s patron)
  • June 24 – Turin, Genoa, Florence (celebrating Saint John the Baptist)
  • June 29 – Rome (Feast of Saints Peter and Paul)
  • July 2 and August 16 – Siena (Palio horse race days)
  • July 15 – Palermo (Feast of Saint Rosalia)
  • September 19 – Naples (Feast of Saint Januarius)
  • October 4 – Bologna (Feast of Saint Petronius)
  • December 6 – Bari (Feast of Saint Nicholas)
  • December 7 – Milan (Feast of Saint Ambrose)

Local tip: The Palio in Siena is one of Italy’s most dramatic cultural events. Held in the Piazza del Campo, it features medieval pageantry and intense competition between city districts. Arrive early or reserve balcony seating for the best view.

Cultural Observances and Seasonal Notes

While not official holidays, several dates are widely recognized and influence local customs:

  • Carnevale – February, especially vibrant in Venice and Ivrea
  • Festa della Donna – March 8, when women receive mimosa flowers
  • Festa della Repubblica – June 2, celebrated with parades in Rome
  • Christmas Markets – late November to December, popular in Bolzano, Merano, and Florence
  • New Year’s Eve (La Festa di San Silvestro) – December 31, marked by fireworks and lentil dishes for good luck

Local tip: For a quieter but authentic New Year’s Eve, visit Matera or Lecce, where locals gather in historic squares for music and midnight celebrations.

Travel Considerations

On public holidays, government offices, banks, and many shops are closed. Museums and tourist attractions may operate on reduced hours or offer special programming. Public transport often runs on a holiday schedule.

Local tip: In major cities like Rome and Milan, restaurants in tourist areas typically remain open during holidays, but reservations are recommended.

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