Hours of Operation

Business hours vary from region to region in Italy. In larger cities, such as Florence, Pisa, Lucca, Siena, and Perugia, stores and other businesses will generally be open 10-7. Many stores close 1-3:30 for a midday break, especially in small towns. More than half of the stores close on Sunday and on national holidays. Many businesses stay closed Monday morning but open in the afternoon. In August, many stores, restaurants, and other businesses shut down for two to four weeks for the traditional summer holiday.

Holidays

National holidays include New Year's Day; Epiphany (January 6); Easter Sunday and Monday; Liberation Day (April 25); Labor Day or May Day (May 1); Assumption of Mary, also known as Ferragosto (August 15); All Saints' Day (November 1); Immaculate Conception (December 8); Christmas Day and Boxing Day (December 25 and 26).

The feast days of patron saints are observed locally. Many businesses and shops may be closed in Florence on June 24 (St. John the Baptist).