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Festa del Lavoro 2025: What's Open and Closed in Italy?
Italy's Labour Day, or Festa del Lavoro, falls on May 1st. This national holiday brings a significant shift in the usual rhythm of Italian life, impacting transportation, shops, museums, and restaurants. Planning a trip or simply curious about the day's schedule? This guide provides insight into what to expect.
Public Transportation
Expect reduced service (orari festivi) across most local public transport networks. Rural areas will see the most significant cuts, while larger cities maintain a more frequent, albeit reduced, schedule. While the USI-CIT union has called a general strike, it's not anticipated to heavily disrupt public transport services; sectors already affected by strikes are excluded.
Rail and Air Travel
Regional and local trains operate on reduced timetables on May 1st, but most high-speed and interregional services run as normal. Similarly, air travel is expected to be unaffected by the general strike.
Schools and Offices
All public schools are closed on May 1st. Many regions extend the closure through May 2nd and 3rd. Public and private offices, banks, post offices, and CAF centers will also be closed.
Shops and Supermarkets
Opening hours vary drastically. Supermarket chains may have limited morning hours, and smaller shops in non-urban areas are likely to be closed. Rome may see widespread supermarket closures due to union-led protests against public holiday openings.
Tourist Attractions
Most state-run museums and archaeological sites remain open, potentially with slightly reduced hours. Check individual site websites for confirmation. Privately run attractions may be closed.
Restaurants and Bakeries
Many restaurants plan to operate normally, catering to those celebrating the holiday. Reservations are recommended. Some bakeries and pastry shops in major cities may open for the morning.
Essential Services
GPs’ clinics will be closed. Non-urgent hospital departments may have limited services due to the strike. For urgent medical needs, utilize the Guardia Medica or hospital emergency rooms. Pharmacies operate on a rota system; use "farmacia di turno [municipality name]" in your online search to find an open one.
Enjoy your Festa del Lavoro, but remember to plan accordingly!
