What happens on Italy's May 1 Labor Day
 

We had a driver booked to take us through Pisa/some villages/Bolgheri and a few wineries, He has just informed me that May 1st is Italy's Labour Day and everything will be either too busy or closed.
Is this true?

It's true that many places are closed on May 1. It's also true that many places that are open on May 1 are very busy.

May 1 is a huge holiday for Italians, most of whom will be making a long weekend of it.

We'll be in Rome on May 1. I'm planning on just wandering around that day, seeing what we can see, and enjoying some people watching time.

Restaurants will be open, right?

Hi S,

Most Restos will be open.

We've been in Italy on May 1st several times (by coincidence). Restaurants were open, the Coloseum was open, train travel was very busy & hectic. Many people out and about walking - some major streets closed for pedestrian traffic only. Happy travels!