interviews by Nastassja Martin
August is traditionally Italy’s month of exodus, when millions leave cities for beaches, mountains and family holidays. But in Friuli Venezia Giulia, with its Adriatic coastline, many residents choose to stay close to home. In downtown Trieste, locals and neighborhood businesses say the quieter pace of summer continues to support cafés, restaurants and small shops.
Their experience reflects a broader national trend. Nearly 40 million Italians—roughly two-thirds of the country’s population—are expected to remain at home during August, channeling an estimated €11 billion to €13 billion into neighborhood businesses, according to a new analysis released Monday by the Centro Studi Conflavoro.
The report, which examines what it calls “Italy’s stay-at-home economy” for the first time, estimates that about 19 million residents will vacation away from home during the month, leaving the majority of Italy’s 58.9 million residents in their local communities.
Conflavoro, an employers’ association representing small and micro-sized businesses, said spending by those staying home is expected to benefit supermarkets, neighborhood shops, cafés, restaurants and local leisure activities. Food purchases alone are projected to total about €9.3 billion, while spending at bars, pizzerias, ice cream shops and local eateries could reach €1.4 billion. Another €900 million is expected to be spent on nearby entertainment, including summer festivals, swimming pools and outdoor events.
The study notes that many Italians either postpone their vacations until later in the year or do not travel at all. Economic constraints, caregiving responsibilities, health concerns and work commitments were identified as the main reasons for staying home.
Drawing on official household spending data, the report also highlights regional differences. Southern Italy records lower summer travel rates than the north and allocates a larger share of household spending to food, making local consumption particularly significant for neighborhood businesses.
The analysis estimates that a traditional Ferragosto lunch for eight people—including appetizers, baked pasta, grilled meat, side dishes, watermelon, dessert and drinks—costs about €170, or roughly €21 per person.
Conflavoro President Roberto Capobianco said the findings highlight the often-overlooked economic contribution of residents who remain in their communities during August, sustaining neighborhood businesses during what is commonly perceived as Italy’s peak holiday month.
