Having lived in Italy as an expat, I’ve experienced first-hand how busy the country gets during national holidays. Italians love to celebrate, and many take advantage of these days off to travel or visit family, which means highways, trains, and public transportation get extremely crowded. From my experience, if your flight coincides with a national holiday such as May 1st (Labor Day) or June 2nd (Republic Day), it’s a good idea to remain close to where you landed rather than trying to move around the country. Booking your transportation in advance is crucial to avoid last-minute stress since many Italians will be doing the same. Smaller towns often have more closures and limited services during these days. However, larger cities may actually experience increased activity as restaurants tend to stay open, contrary to what some might expect. For example, while staying in Milan, I found that many restaurants were busy rather than closed, as locals go out to celebrate. If you need to travel on these holidays, expect fewer options and potentially delayed services. Plan activities that don't require transportation, like exploring your current city, visiting parks, or attending local festivals and celebrations. These offer a unique cultural experience as you witness authentic Italian holiday traditions. Lastly, sustainability is key even during holidays. Avoid contributing to congestion by opting for sustainable modes of transport when possible, like bikes or walking, and support local businesses that embrace eco-friendly practices. This way, you can enjoy Italy’s festive spirit responsibly and help preserve its charm for future visitors.