Italy’s public holidays in 2026 follow a familiar rhythm: national celebrations, major religious observances and seasonal breaks that shape how Italians plan travel throughout the year. Understanding these giorni festivi helps you see not only when the country slows down, but also where Italians prefer to spend their holidays, from winter ski trips to Ferragosto on the coast.

Italy Public Holidays 2026 (National)

Italy has the following nationwide public holidays in 2026:

Some regions observe additional holidays, but these nation-wide dates shape the travel habits Italy is famous for.

What These Public Holidays Mean in Daily Life

Capodanno

New Year begins quietly, with family meals and fireworks. Many Italians take short winter breaks in the Alps and Dolomites.

Epifania / La Befana

A traditional holiday marking the end of Christmas. Cities host markets and parades, and families enjoy one last celebration before returning to work.

Pasqua & Pasquetta

Easter Sunday and Easter Monday bring family gatherings, open-air picnics, and the first spring weekend trips.

Festa della Liberazione

A national day of remembrance that also marks the start of true spring travel.

Festa della Repubblica

Italy’s national day, featuring military parades in Rome and busy city centres across the country.

Ferragosto

Italy’s peak holiday. Cities slow down, beaches fill up, and many Italians ask dove andare in vacanza ad agosto as they plan their biggest summer break.

Ognissanti

A quiet family holiday often combined with autumn weekends in the countryside.

Immacolata

Marks the start of the Christmas season, especially in northern cities where festive markets open.

Where Italians Travel Each Month

January: Winter Escapes in the Alps

Dove andare in vacanza a gennaio or where to go on holiday in January

January is all about winter landscapes, crisp alpine air and cosy evenings after a day in the snow. Ski towns like Cortina d’Ampezzo, Bormio and Madonna di Campiglio attract travellers who want skiing, spas and slow mountain rhythms. For cultural weekends, cities like Turin and Florence offer museums, cafés and winter charm without the rush.

February: Carnival, Mountains and Late-Winter Breaks

Dove andare in vacanza a febbraio or where to go on holiday in February

February revolves around Carnival energy and the final stretch of the ski season. Venice transforms with masks and parades, while Viareggio and Cento host iconic floats and festivals. In the mountains, destinations like Courmayeur and Val di Fassa still deliver excellent snow for those looking to mix celebration with winter sports.

March: Early Spring and Quiet Countryside Trips

Dove andare in vacanza a marzo or where to go on holiday in March

March is a gentle transition into spring. Tuscany, Umbria and Lake Garda offer blooming landscapes, fresh air and peaceful drives. It’s an ideal month for exploring small towns, wine regions and cultural cities before the busier spring holidays begin.

April: Long Weekends and Festa della Liberazione

Dove andare in vacanza ad aprile or where to go on holiday in April

April brings warm days and national holidays like Festa della Liberazione, creating perfect opportunities for short breaks. Tuscany, Le Marche and Umbria feel vibrant with spring colours, Liguria’s coast reopens for the season, and big cities host outdoor events and Easter traditions.

May: Early Summer Without the Crowds

Dove andare in vacanza a maggio or where to go on holiday in May

May is one of Italy’s best-kept secrets: warm, bright and relaxed. Sardinia, Sicily and Puglia offer early beach days with calm seas and quiet shores, while Piedmont, Friuli and Valpolicella welcome travellers with wine routes and fresh seasonal flavours.

June: Beaches, Islands and Alpine Cool

Dove andare in vacanza a giugno or where to go on holiday in June

June marks the real start of summer. Families and couples head to the islands, while others choose Dolomite meadows and high-altitude towns to escape the heat. It’s the perfect month for long days outdoors, early swims and scenic mountain hikes under blue skies.

July: Full Summer Energy From North to South

July is bright and lively across the entire country. Posti dove andare in vacanza or places to go on holiday: Calabria’s wild coastline, Sicily’s baroque towns and Veneto’s long sandy beaches fill quickly. Evenings stretch late, making seaside promenades, local festivals and outdoor dinners part of everyday life.

August: Ferragosto and Italy’s Biggest Holiday Month

Dove andare in vacanza ad agosto or where to go on holiday in August

August is the heart of Italy’s holiday season. Beaches, mountains and islands become the centre of travel as the country prepares for Ferragosto, Buon Ferragosto or happy Ferragostoon the 15th. Whether it’s Puglia’s coves, the Dolomites’ fresh air or Sardinia’s turquoise bays, August is defined by long, sun-filled days and joyful buon Ferragosto celebrations everywhere you go.

September: Warm, Quiet and Perfectly Balanced

Dove andare in vacanza a settembre or where to go on holiday in September

September stays warm but turns calmer, offering some of Italy’s most enjoyable travel days. Coastal regions remain inviting, while destinations like Sicily, Puglia, and the Marche coast feel relaxed and beautifully atmospheric. It’s also an excellent month for cultural city trips without the heat.

October: Autumn Colours and Harvest Season

Dove andare in vacanza ad ottobre or where to go on holiday in October

October brings golden vineyards, food festivals and quiet countryside roads. Piedmont’s truffle season begins, Umbria turns into a postcard of autumn colours and Trentino offers scenic drives surrounded by mountains and forests. It’s the ideal month for slow travel and seasonal flavours.

November: Culture, Cities and Slow Travel

Cosa fare in Italia or what to do in Italy on November shifts into a reflective mood, perfect for cultural weekends. Milan hosts major exhibitions, Florence feels intimate for museum visits, and Naples stays warm enough for long walks and exceptional food. It’s a month for discovering Italy at a quieter pace.

December: Christmas Markets and Alpine Winter

December dresses Italy in lights. Christmas markets brighten Bolzano, Trento and Verona, while ski resorts reopen with fresh snow. Whether you prefer festive cities or winter landscapes, December offers traditions, food and atmosphere from north to south.

Travel Italy Smoothly

Italy’s holiday rhythm moves from winter slopes to summer coastlines, from Ferragosto celebrations to Christmas markets. Whether you are crossing regions by train or flying into several cities in a year, having your mobile setup ready before arrival saves time, especially on days when businesses pause for celebrations.

With the Eskimo Italy eSIM, you can stay connected across the country without visiting a store. It installs instantly, works the moment you land and keeps you online whether you are travelling for Pasqua, exploring summer islands or taking a winter city break.

If your plans extend beyond Italy, start with the free 500 MB Global eSIM to try how it works, then upgrade to an Europe plan or Global plan covering more than 100 destinations.

FAQs

What are the main public holidays in Italy?

Italy observes national holidays including Capodanno, Epifania, Pasqua, Pasquetta, Liberation Day, Labour Day, Republic Day, Ferragosto, Ognissanti, Immacolata and Natale.

Why is Ferragosto important in Italy?

Ferragosto marks the height of summer. Many Italians take their longest holiday of the year, often travelling to beaches, islands or mountain resorts.

Where do Italians usually travel during public holidays?

Short breaks in spring and autumn often lead to Tuscany, the Lakes and Umbria. Summer holidays centre around Sardinia, Sicily, Puglia and mountain regions.

Are shops and services open during holidays like Ferragosto or Christmas?

Many shops, restaurants and offices close on major holidays, especially on 15 August and 25 December. Tourist areas may offer limited opening hours.