It might seem counterproductive to shut up shop when all the tourists come to town, but it’s a tradition that is deep-rooted in this part of the Mediterranean. Monaco Life explains the phenomena of “summer shutdowns”.
Known colloquially as the “summer shutdowns”, many businesses – large and small –in Southern Europe shutter their doors for the entire month of August. This tradition has long perplexed holidaymakers from other parts of the world, who wonder why, in the midst of such a huge month for tourists, they would close up shop, missing out on potential big financial gains.
The short answer is habit, but the reality is a bit more involved and has to do with several factors that have evolved and changed with each passing generation.
WEATHER
This may surprise many, but one of the primary reasons people in France and Italy shut their doors in August is the heat. Whilst many flock to these countries specifically for the warmth, by the time August rolls around, the heat, coupled with higher humidity, has taken a toll on locals.
CUSTOM
There was a time when factories closed in August, putting many people on the same holiday timetable. As the years passed, and the economies of France and Italy became more diversified, this was no longer a forced vacation, but it did become a habitual one.
The idea that summer is for relaxation and play, and not work, has been deeply ingrained in the collective psyche, and this unshakable belief has led to most people thinking it inconceivable to not take the month off.
The idea that all French go away in August isn’t exactly the case, though.
In fact, there are two distinct camps, namely the juilletistes who leave for July, and the aoûtiens who opt for August. For example, if someone grew up going away in July, then as adults, they tend to stick to that routine. A quirk, indeed, but one not without its charms.
IT’S NORMAL
Another reason for the closures is that the French and Italians like a good holiday just like everyone else. It’s rather silly of outsiders to think that just because they want to visit these wonderful places in summer that locals don’t want to get away with their families during this period too.
Tourists can take comfort in knowing that even though a fair few shops, restaurants and facilities are closed, the big tourist attractions, like museums and churches, tend to remain open, so even if it’s trickier to find a baguette, a trip up the Eiffel Tower can still be had, no problem!
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Photo source: Loic Barré, Unsplash
FAQs
This may surprise many, but one of the primary reasons people in France and Italy shut their doors in August is the heat. Whilst many flock to these countries specifically for the warmth, by the time August rolls around, the heat, coupled with higher humidity, has taken a toll on locals.
Why does everything shut down in August in Italy? ›
The simple fact is that most businesses, especially small locally owned businesses, simply cannot afford to close down for an entire month. You may find some cafes or restaurants closed for a week or two in the middle of August, but there will be plenty of others open and ready to serve your pasta and pour your wine.
Why does France shut down in August? ›
Parts of the country experience extremely high temperatures during the summer months and so it was deemed better to be on holiday than struggling to work in offices. But in the past, certainly, most things shut down because of these reasons.
Why doesn't Italy work in August? ›
Celebrating Ferragosto
Schools, offices, factories, businesses, and many of the shops are closed! The word comes from 'feriae Augusti' which means 'rest day in August': a day for celebrating the end of the harvesting season.
Does everyone in France get August off? ›
Traditionally, most people went in August, when factories closed and the country pretty much shut down. But as the French economy has evolved and manufacturing has declined, people can now choose which month to go on vacation.
Is everything in Europe closed in August? ›
Don't discount July and August.
In much of Europe, especially Italy and France, cities partially shut down in July and August, when local urbanites take their beach breaks. You'll hear that these are terrible times to travel, but it's really no big deal.
Why not to go to Italy in August? ›
The price you pay for the smaller crowds and better deals is, of course, suffering through what is often extremely hot and humid weather (along with some shops and restaurants closed for the month). The main tourist cities – places like Rome, Venice, and Florence – aren't ghost towns in August.
Does nobody work in August in France? ›
The idea that all French go away in August isn't exactly the case, though. In fact, there are two distinct camps, namely the juilletistes who leave for July, and the aoûtiens who opt for August. For example, if someone grew up going away in July, then as adults, they tend to stick to that routine.
Why is Paris empty in August? ›
Parisians leave the city every summer because the summer heat can make life pretty miserable. That is why there is a mass exodus from the city every July and August. You might think I'm exaggerating, but I promise you I'm not. Shops, restaurants, and bakeries close for a month at a time in the summer.
Is August a bad month to visit Paris? ›
From June to August the weather in Paris is just about parfait (perfect). Average highs are in the high 70s and there are long days of sunshine. Unfortunately, summer is also the most crowded time – and the most expensive. For lower travel rates and significantly shorter lines at attractions, plan a visit in the fall.
DOs & DON'Ts For Her
- Don't Wear Shorts. Although summer in Italy can be rather hot, you'll rarely see Italian women wearing shorts. ...
- Don't Bring Flip-Flops. Italians can spot an American from a mile away; because, well, they are wearing flip-flops.
Many Romans are here too now. That said, many shops and restaurants, particularly the very traditional Roman ones, do shut down for some or all of August. However more and more shop owners are opting to stay open for some if not most of the month. The same is true for restaurants, even some really good ones.
Does everything close in Milan in August? ›
August is invariably the least preferred month to visit Milan as the locals move on to some other cities for the summer vacation. As a result of this, most of the shops and restaurants remain closed. However, the places of interest like monuments, museums, etc., are open even during this time.
Where do Parisians go in August? ›
Parisians head out of town on vacation and to their country homes in August. This means the Metro will be less crowded as will some attractions. It also means you can expect less French people around as you navigate Paris.
Should you go to France in August? ›
Many businesses throughout the country close in August, as this is when many of the French take trips of their own and the schools take their long summer break. However, it's still a very popular month for travel. Temperatures are at their warmest, so you can spend your days soaking up the sun and dining alfresco.
Why do French go on holiday in August? ›
The long, hot days of August were when the French believed it was the right time to close down, take a break and go away for a whole month.
Is August off season in Italy? ›
As discussed earlier, August doesn't fall under the peak season since it's the hottest season, especially on the Mediterranean coast and Naples. July to August are also too crowded, not because of the tourists but because the locals will be out on holiday to beat the heat.
Why is the month of August a holiday in Italy? ›
It originates from Feriae Augusti, the festival of Emperor Augustus, who made 1 August a day of rest after weeks of hard work on the agricultural sector. It became a custom for the workers to wish their employers "buon ferragosto" and receive a monetary bonus in return.
Are things closed on August 15 in Italy? ›
Many restaurants and shops will close and will use this day (more likely from the preceeding Saturday since the 15th is Monday) to close for the remainder of the month. But in the big cities like Rome, Florence and Venice, you will still find a good selection of places to eat and shop.
What time does everything shut down in Italy? ›
Not everything but a great deal does close. Major city centre shops departmenrs stores, supermarkets - are increasingly staying open from around 9 - 9.30 am to around 7.00 - 7-30 pm. Smaller shops - owner run - tend to close sometime around 1 - 2 pm and reopen sometime around 3 - 4.30 pm.
