August holiday season leaves Italian cities quieter

In August, many Italian residents head to beaches or mountains, leaving cities such as Rome and Milan noticeably quieter. Coastal resorts can be crowded, while some independent shops close for several weeks. Many Italians holiday within Italy, and hotels, holiday rentals and campsites in resort areas can fill up. The observations come from The Local's article first published in 2022 and updated in August 2026.