Why Does Italy Shut Down in August? Understanding Ferragosto and the Italian Vacation Tradition

If you have ever tried to schedule an appointment or visit a local shop in Italy during August, you might have been surprised to find many doors shut and “chiuso per ferie” signs everywhere. So what exactly is going on with the Italian August?

At Ready Set Italia, we help you navigate not just the Italian language and citizenship process but the culture too. Here is what you should know about why Italy seems to pause every August and why it is completely normal.

What Is Ferragosto?

Ferragosto is a national holiday celebrated on August 15, rooted in ancient Roman traditions and Catholic observance of the Assumption of Mary. Over time, it has evolved into something more: a cultural marker for the Italian summer holiday.

In modern Italy, Ferragosto is not just one day. For many, it marks the peak of a much longer break, often stretching for the entire month of August, also caled "Italian August."

Why Do Businesses Close?

While it might feel surprising to foreigners, closing up shop in August is a long standing Italian tradition.

Here is why:

• Weather: August is one of the hottest months in Italy. Cities become stifling, and locals often escape to the coast or mountains.

• Family Time: Summer is sacred for reconnecting with family. Schools are out, and many parents take their annual leave during this time.

• Tourism Economy: In smaller towns, especially those not dependent on international tourism, it makes sense to close since many customers are also away.

• Work Culture: Unlike countries where work takes priority year round, Italians value rest and mental well being. The August break is a protected tradition.

How Much Vacation Time Do Italians Get?

Under Italian labor law, full time employees are guaranteed at least four weeks of paid vacation per year. Many collective contracts add even more. It is common for Italians to use two or more of those weeks in August, especially if their employer or industry has a scheduled shutdown period called chiusura aziendale.

So when you see towns looking half empty or stores shuttered, it is not just a random choice. It is a nationally embraced rhythm of rest.

Is This Just an Italian Thing?

No. While Italy may be famous for it, August shutdowns are common across Southern Europe. In Spain, France, and Greece, many businesses also close for extended periods in August. It reflects a shared Mediterranean lifestyle, one that prioritizes balance and time off in a way that might feel unfamiliar to Americans or Northern Europeans.

Is Everything Closed?

Not quite. Major tourist cities like Rome, Florence, and Milan will keep many attractions, restaurants, and hotels open, especially in areas that cater to international travelers. But local services, government offices, and smaller shops may operate on reduced hours or shut completely for two to four weeks.

How to Plan Around It

If you are thinking about applying for Italian citizenship, taking the CILS B1 exam, or dealing with Italian bureaucracy, August is not the month to act. Use this time to study, prepare, or travel instead.

At Ready Set Italia, our digital prep programs for CILS A2 integrazione and CILS B1 cittadinanza stay open all year, so you can keep making progress even if Italy is on vacation.

A Cultural Lesson Worth Embracing

The August shutdown is not laziness. It is a deliberate pause. It reflects the Italian approach to life: slow down, enjoy the moment, and prioritize what matters. If you are planning to live in Italy or apply for citizenship, understanding this rhythm is part of adapting to la dolce vita.