August is the height of summer and one of the busiest months in Italy. It’s not just a time for visitors to enjoy a vacation, it’s also a time for Italians to enjoy time off. The biggest holiday of the month is Ferragosto, and it’s one you should keep in mind if you’re planning to visit Italy in August.
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What is Ferragosto?
Ferragosto, or “Festa di Ferragosto,” is a major public holiday in Italy. It’s celebrated on August 15th, and many Italians take most (if not all) of the month off. The term “Ferragosto” comes from the Latin “Feriae Augusti” (Augustus’ rest), named after Emperor Augustus.
Emperor Augustus established the holiday in 18 BCE as a period of rest after the hard labour of the harvest season. Over time, the Catholic Church incorporated this date to mark the celebration of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary. Therefore, Ferragosto is rooted in both ancient Roman and Catholic traditions.
Today, Festa di Ferragosto blends its pagan roots and religious significance. It marks the peak of the Italian summer holiday season, and many Italians take extended vacations around this time, often lasting the entire month of August. Ferragosto in Italy is marked by family gatherings, feasts, and various local festivals.
Ferragosto during the Fascist era
While Ferragosto has ancient roots, it took on new significance during Italy’s fascist period in the 20th century. The regime of Benito Mussolini saw the holiday as an opportunity for propaganda and social control. In the 1920s, the fascist government began organizing discounted “People’s Trains” (Treni popolari di Ferragosto) to enable working-class Italians to visit different parts of the country during the Ferragosto period.
These trips, which offered reduced rates for one—to three-day excursions, were part of the regime’s efforts to promote national unity and showcase Italy’s cultural heritage. The fascists also used Ferragosto to encourage participation in state-organized leisure activities and propagate their ideological messages. While the holiday’s political overtones have long since faded, this period helped cement Ferragosto’s status as a time for travel and vacation in the Italian cultural calendar.
How Ferragosto can affect your visit
If you’re visiting Italy during Ferragosto, there are several factors to keep in mind. Many businesses, including restaurants, shops and some tourist attractions, may be closed on August 15th and possibly for several days around it.
Coastal areas are extremely popular during this time, so expect beaches to be packed with locals and tourists. This also means the prices will be at their peak, and you might have slim pickings for accommodations or attractions. Public transportation might run on reduced schedules, and roads to popular vacation spots can be congested, so plan your travel accordingly.
On the bright side, many towns host special events, fireworks, or festivals for Ferragosto, offering unique cultural experiences. However, some cities may feel deserted as locals leave for vacation, potentially affecting available services. It’s a time of contrasts, with some areas bustling with activity while others slow down significantly.
Tips for visiting during Ferragosto
While Ferragosto is technically a one-day event, many Italians take the month of August off. This means businesses in all sectors, including travel and tourism. As I mentioned, you’ll have much less choice for accommodations, especially if you hope to stay by the beach as the locals book them way in advance. You might also find some shops and restaurants to be closed for ‘ferie.”
If you plan on staying in big cities like Rome or Milan, your choices will be less affected. Since many locals leave for the beach, you’ll be surrounded by local and foreign tourists. It’s also going to be very hot. August can get extremely hot in Italy and many tourist attractions (I’m looking at you, Colosseum) offer no protection from the sun.
Be sure to check the opening hours of attractions you want to visit, as schedules may differ during this period. Book ahead to avoid disappointment – this applies to both attractions and accommodation.
Are you ready for Ferragosto?
Summer in Italy can be magical. It’s the perfect time to get out of the big cities and explore the stunning landscapes. The country is almost entirely coastline, and there are many amazing beaches dotting it. You can visit some of the popular spots like Tropea or Rimini or find smaller, lesser-known (to outsiders) places.
Consider visiting less touristy areas and regions for a more relaxed experience. Take a road trip, go for a wine tour and visit smaller, more remote towns. If you stay in one during Ferragosto, you’ll likely be able to partake in the celebrations and hang out with the locals. Whether you’re lounging on a beach or exploring a quiet city, you’ll now know why Italy seems to take a collective pause in mid-August. Buon Ferragosto!
