If you're planning a trip to the stunning Cinque Terre region near La Spezia, Italy, timing your visit can make a significant difference in your experience. The UNESCO area is world-famous for its colorful villages, breathtaking scenery, and delicious cuisine, but during Italian public holidays, it becomes incredibly busy with tourists.
Continue reading if you want to find out how to avoid these national holiday dates and other important travel tips to enjoy the beauty of Cinque Terre without excessive crowds.
Time Your Visit
For a more relaxed, authentic experience, consider visiting during off-peak times, avoiding the peak influx of visitors on national holidays. Here's why:
- Fewer Crowds: Explore the villages, hike the scenic trails, and dine at local eateries without the crazy crowds.
- Better Access: Avoid packed transportation, long lines, and crowded attractions.
- Authentic Experience: Enjoy the local culture and hospitality without the usual tourist rush.
Do Some Advance Planning
- Check the Italian public holiday calendar (below) before locking in your dates.
- Aim for weekdays for an easier and quieter experience.
- It’s also a good idea to try and avoid the La Spezia cruise ship docking dates (some of these ships carry more the 6,000 passengers – all eager to visit Cinque Terre)!
- Organize and book your Cinque Terre Card online – this all-day travel card can be bought at the 5T train stations, but the long queues move slowly and eat into your precious vacation time.
- Book accommodation well in advance to get the best deals and best quality (there are lots of beautiful accommodation options in the five towns, but the best ones get booked first)! We like using booking.com because of the variety of options, great pricing, and clear cancellation policy.
Italian Public Holidays in Italy 2025 & 2026
Plan your visit by avoiding these national holiday dates, or consider traveling just before or after these holidays:
2025 Italian Public Holidays
New Year’s Day (Capodanno): January 1 (Wednesday)
Epiphany (Epifania): January 6 (Monday)
Easter Sunday (Pasqua): April 20 (Sunday)
Easter Monday (Pasquetta): April 21 (Monday)
Liberation Day (Festa della Liberazione): April 25 (Friday)
Labor Day (Festa dei Lavoratori): May 1 (Thursday)
Republic Day (Festa della Repubblica): June 2 (Monday)
Assumption of Mary (Ferragosto): August 15 (Friday)
All Saints’ Day (Tutti i Santi): November 1 (Saturday)
Immaculate Conception (Festa dell'Immacolata Concezione): December 8 (Monday)
Christmas Day (Natale): December 25 (Thursday)
Boxing Day or St. Stephen’s Day (Il Giorno di Santo Stefano): December 26 (Friday)
2026 Italian Public Holidays
New Year’s Day (Capodanno): January 1 (Thursday)
Epiphany (Epifania): January 6 (Tuesday)
Easter Sunday (Pasqua): April 5 (Sunday)
Easter Monday (Pasquetta): April 6 (Monday)
Liberation Day (Festa della Liberazione): April 25 (Saturday)
Labor Day (Festa dei Lavoratori): May 1 (Friday)
Republic Day (Festa della Repubblica): June 2 (Tuesday)
Assumption of Mary (Ferragosto): August 15 (Saturday)
All Saints’ Day (Tutti i Santi): November 1 (Sunday)
Immaculate Conception (Festa dell'Immacolata Concezione): December 8 (Tuesday)
Christmas Day (Natale): December 25 (Friday)
Boxing Day or St. Stephen’s Day (Il Giorno di Santo Stefano): December 26 (Saturday)
Final Tips for Planning Your Perfect Trip
- Best Months to Visit Cinque Terre: Spring (April-May) and Fall (September-October) typically see fewer tourists.
- Early Mornings & Evenings: Explore popular spots during quieter times of the day (when the cruise ship passengers and day trippers have gone).
Make Your Trip to Cinque Terre Memorable - Plan Smartly!
By avoiding Italy's public holidays and peak weekends, you can enjoy Cinque Terre’s stunning landscapes, vibrant villages, and cultural richness more peacefully.
You may also find our Essential Cinque Terre guide useful for planning your visit, and experience Italy like a local – relaxed, authentic, and unforgettable.
If you’re short on time and don’t have time to plan the details, then you should check out our ready-made itineraries to help you explore like a local!
Visit Cinque Terre with local insights.
We include a visit to 3 towns, suggestions for lunch, aperitivo & dinner. Also includes wine and cultural tour options, self-guided sightseeing routes, cultural and historic notes, and where to take iconic photos.
