Doing business in Italy in August? Think again.

Planning meetings or trying to close a deal in Italy mid-August? Don’t be surprised if your emails go unanswered and your business contacts are offline. Around August 15, much of Italy shuts down for Ferragosto, one of the country’s most important holidays.

But Ferragosto is more than just a public holiday. It reflects something essential about Italian culture, work-life balance, and the importance of speaking Italian when doing business there.

What is Ferragosto?

“Ferragosto is when Italy collectively takes a break,” explains Claudia Cardinali, Italian language trainer at Regina Coeli, also known as the Nuns of Vught. “The name comes from Feriae Augusti, Latin for ‘the rest of Augustus’—originally a Roman celebration marking the end of the harvest season.”

Today, Ferragosto is celebrated on August 15 and coincides with the religious holiday of the Assumption of Mary. Across the country, people gather for open-air festivals, family lunches, beach trips, and traditional processions. Offices, factories, shops, and government buildings are often closed—not just for the day, but sometimes for the entire week.

Why Italy slows down in August

Ferragosto also marks the peak of the Italian summer vacation period. Most Italians take time off in August, often staying within Italy’s borders. “It makes sense,” says Claudia. “Italy has so much to offer in terms of nature, culture, and food. Many Italians feel you should fully know your own country before traveling abroad.”

Italian summers are hot, and locals avoid the midday heat by enjoying long lunches and relaxing indoors—very different from the typical habits of Northern Europeans who might schedule meetings or sightseeing right in the heat of the day.

Why speaking Italian matters in business

When doing business in Italy, it's smart to learn when things slow down. But even more important: learn Italian. Even if your contacts speak English, making the effort to speak their language opens doors—literally and figuratively.

“Speaking Italian builds instant trust,” says Claudia. “It shows respect for the culture and helps you connect on a more personal level. That’s crucial in the Italian business world, where relationships matter just as much as contracts.”

Speak the language, understand the culture

If you're serious about working with Italian partners or expanding into the Italian market, speaking the language will make a real difference. At Regina Coeli, we offer immersive Italian language courses with native-speaking trainers who teach you not just grammar and vocabulary, but how to communicate naturally and effectively in professional settings.