Ferragosto in Italy 2025: Dates, Where to Go & Festival Tips

If there is one month that travelers both love and dread in Italy, it is August. Ferragosto, Italy's biggest summer festival, is the main reason behind this mixed feeling. The festive atmosphere is charming, but widespread business closures often leave travelers in a dilemma. In this guide, you'll discover why Ferragosto remains one of Italian well-beloved traditions, and how to make the most of your Italy tour during this summer break.

When and What Is Ferragosto

Ferragosto is celebrated on August 15 each year. The word Ferragosto means "festival in August", and it originates from the Latin term Feriae Augusti (the holidays of Augustus).

The festival dates back to 18 BC, when Emperor Augustus instituted August 1 as a day of rest for workers after months of hard labor in the fields. During the Roman Renaissance, Ferragosto became institutionalized, and later the Catholic Church fixed the date on August 15 to coincide with the Assumption of Mary.

Today, Ferragosto is a national public holiday in Italy. Families often take the opportunity to gather, relax, and enjoy a mid-summer break together.

How Ferragosto Affects Travelers

Nowadays, shops and restaurants are not as widely closed as they used to be, especially in major tourist cities. However, some closures are still noticeable during the Ferragosto holiday. As an international traveler, you might have some difficulty finding open shops or restaurants nearby. To avoid hassle, it is a smart idea to stay in a convenient area and ask about business hours ahead of your trip to Italy. This will help ensure a smooth travel experience.

About half of Italians head to the beach in August, with Ferragosto marking the peak of the summer holiday. If you are planning a beach getaway, consider off-the-beaten-path destinations such as the southeastern coast (Adriatic Sea) or the southern regions like Calabria and Sicily. Beaches located in nature reserves, those accessible only on foot, or those that require prior booking will be relatively less crowded.

When it comes to transportation, flights, trains, and highways can be high demand or limited availability. Booking everything in advance is essential - reserve early and travel with less stress.

High Season in Italy's Top Attraction

Best Places to Go and See During Ferragosto in Italy

For Cultural Experience

Museums and galleries are great places to escape the summer heat. Florence, Rome, and Venice are filled with cultural and historical sites. You could easily spend an entire week in each. Some landmarks or UNESCO Sites, like the Colosseum and the Uffizi Gallery, even offer night tours for a more atmospheric experience.

Smaller cities and towns such as Assisi, Lecce, Pompeii, and Pisa also boast rich cultural treasures, offering deeper insights into Italian heritage.

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If you'd like to soak up the festive local spirit, open-air concerts and parades are a wonderful way to connect with Italians. Whether you are in major cities like Rome and Florence, or in charming towns like Sorrento, Alberobello, or Taormina, you are sure to come across vibrant summer events.

Looking for something truly special? Don't miss the Palio horse race in Siena - an unforgettable cultural spectacle. Another top recommendation is to watch the fireworks in Naples. As the sky lights up with sparks and the sea reflects the glow, you'll be swept up in a celebration that's both lively and romantic.

For Relaxing Holiday

In August, beaches undoubtedly are the center of attention in Italy. A relaxing holiday here wouldn't be complete without spending some time by the sea. However, the most popular seaside spots can get extremely crowded during Ferragosto.

The good news is, nearly 80% of Italy's borders are coastline, making it one of the most maritime countries in Europe, with countless beautiful destinations stretching from the Adriatic to the Tyrrhenian Sea.

If you are hoping to avoid the crowds and enjoy a more peaceful atmosphere, there are still plenty of options. Consider Maremma in Tuscany, Salento in Puglia, Bonassola or Framura in Liguria, Sampieri or Punta Secca in Sicily, or Tropea and Capo Vaticano in Calabria. With the right choice, you can enjoy a relaxing coastal retreat far from the crowds - you deserve the chance to unwind.

High Season in Italy's Beach

For Outdoor Activities

In Italy, summer is the best season to enjoy the great outdoors. Hiking or cycling in the Dolomites is a terrific way to get the fresh air and picturesque alpine views during Ferragosto.

If you prefer something different, take a nature walk through Abruzzo National Park or the volcanic landscapes of Mount Etna, go boating on peaceful lakes like Lake Orta or Lake Iseo, or simply fire up a barbecue, just like the locals do.

How Do Italians Celebrate Ferragosto Festival

Locals like to spend Ferragosto at the beach or in the mountains to escape the heat and enjoy a relaxing time. The Amalfi Coast, Sardinia, and Sicily are among the most popular beach destinations, while the Dolomites and Cortina are top mountain getaways.

Some families take this opportunity to visit cultural and historical cities like Rome or Florence and learn more about Italy. If they don't have plans for a longer trip, they might enjoy a picnic in a nearby park.

From horse racing in Siena and fireworks in Naples to seaside concerts and city parades, these vibrant events all contribute to the festive atmosphere.

Food is a very important part of the celebration. Barbecues, fresh cold dishes, and gelato are a must!

Have to say, Italians truly know how to enjoy a holiday.

Parade in Italy

Festival Tips for Visitors

Make Reservations in Advance

As Ferragosto falls during the peak travel season in Italy, accommodations and restaurants, especially Michelin-starred restaurants, can be fully booked quickly. To avoid frustration, it is best to reserve well in advance.

Check Opening Hours of Services

To prevent any inconvenience, be sure to check the opening hours of the services you may need, such as museums, galleries, and restaurants. Many businesses may close or have reduced hours during the holiday.

Avoid Self-Driving

Ferragosto is one of the busiest times of the year in Italy. Roads, especially highways, can be extremely congested. If you are unfamiliar with local driving conditions, self-driving can be stressful. Consider taking private tours or using public transport instead.

Buon Ferragosto! Happy August Festival!

As the Italian saying goes: "A Ferragosto, o ti muovi o ti rassegni (On Ferragosto, either you move or you give up)." It perfectly sums up the holiday spirit: plan ahead and join the summer holiday, or escape this period. Travel with Odynovo, you will surely be the former one.