Recently someone told us that August is a very bad time to visit Italy and France since the cities are shut down (with people going on vacation). I am visiting Paris, Rome, Venice, Florence and Siena in the beginning of August.
This is my first trip to Europe, the plans are all made, and this statement has got me a bit anxious.
Has anyone been to these places in August and found it hard?
Thanks,
Raji.
Ah, yes, the "someone told us" horror story. Ask that someone when they last took a trip to Europe. Of course, the cities don't "shut down" in August so go, and have a wonderful time.
My first trip to Paris was in August and we didn't experience any closures. I haven't been to Italy - yet! I've never heard that about Italy though.
That wouldn't be my preferred time to travel Europe, as it tends to be hot and crowded. However, I understand your plans are all made, so you'll have to make the best of it.
Be sure to let us know how the trip went when you return home.
Cheers!
Expect the weather to be hot - maybe oppressively so in Italy (exactly what qualifies as "oppressive" depends on your own tolerance - Italy will be hotter than Seattle, that's for sure). Plan to take it easy mid-day, get out of the sun, and drink lots of water. France may be quite warm, too - more so in the south, but Paris can get hot. You may want to be sure your hotels have air con (in August, I certainly would).
The other reason this is not an ideal time is that's when most people take their vacations. Resort areas and tourist destinations will be crowded. But it's hardly the case that the country "shuts down". It's the highest of the high season.
As you said, your plans are made, so don't fret too much over it. Just plan for crowds and heat, and you'll do fine.
I go to Paris in August . I find hotels are often cheaper then.. often there area summer "specials" . NO major tourist sites close down. You will not be affected by a few mom and pop places closing for their holidays. Don't listen too much to people who try to bring you down with such stories.
The one point they didn't make, but a few other posters mentioned,,,is the heat. I find Italy insanely hot in the summer, I have only been twice,, so I'm no expert,, but Rome can easily be like 90 degrees or more.. so get a hotel with air conditioning. Paris can be hot or cool, its very changable there.
Go and have fun.
Raji,
By all means toss your August travel reservations overboard and don't give it another thought. I've visited much of France and Italy during August, including Paris, Venice, Florence, and Siena, and have never experienced any kind of hint of "shut down." All urban and rural locales are open and ready for business. One caveat: be mindful of some mid-afternoon closures, often for two to three hours. In addition, I'd strongly suggest that you book accommodations with air conditioning, as a cool hotel room provides you with a welcome relief from the often intense high-summer temperatures.
Best of luck.
