My boyfriend and I are planning a trip to Italy - arriving in Pisa Sun March 28 and departing from Pisa Tues April 6. We're currently looking at a loose itinerary that puts us in Vernazza for Sunday and Monday, onto Bologna for Monday night, to Venice for Tuesday night (we're thinking of staying an extra night here, but aren't sure), staying in Florence on Wednesday night, Siena on Thursday night and back to Florence for the duration of the trip (very excited to see the Scoppio del Carro). Though this is my boyfriend's first visit to Europe, let alone Italy, I studied abroad living in Florence years ago and have been to all of these places. My main concern is what we may run into while travelling during Holy Week. I know that the monday following is usually a holiday and most museums aren't open on Monday anyways, but does anyone have any other specific red flags or advice for travelling during this time?
Grazie mille!
Posted by
Poulsbo, WA, US
223 posts
We spent last Easter in Italy. We did leave Rome after checking out the Holy Thursday service and went to Assisi. For the most part, it wasn't as crazy around Easter as I was worried it might be. (Leave the earthquake)
Posted by
Napa, CA
3580 posts
In 2010 my calendar shows Palm Sunday on March 28 and Easter on April 4. If your entire trip is between Mar. 28 and Apr. 6, you will be there during Holy Week. It's best to have your rooms reserved in advance. As I understand your question, you will be in Florence on Easter Sunday. If schools are out, there will be lots of people traveling. Museums will be more crowded. My advice: reserve travel and museums ahead, if possible.
Posted by
San Francisco
33 posts
I spent Easter and Easter Monday in Rome this year and everything went great. It wasn't particularly crowded. Museums do close on Monday but churches were still opened. You do need to plan ahead so that you can avoid planned museum trips on Monday. I went to the Colosseum and Forum on Easter Monday instead and it worked out great.
Most museums open on Easter.