A guide to saying it like a local
How to Say "What time do you close" in Italian
Learn how to ask about closing times in Italy with this essential phrase for travelers navigating shops, museums, and restaurants.
A che ora chiudete?
a keh OH-rah kyu-DEH-tehneutral
Italian TTS · 0:01
Use this when you are standing at the entrance of a shop or restaurant and want to know how much time you have left. It is perfect for checking if a place is still open before you walk in.
Alternatives
- A che ora chiude?Use this if you are speaking to a single shopkeeper or asking about a specific museum.
- Fino a che ora restate aperti?Use this for a slightly more polite way to ask how late they operate.
Ways to get it wrong
Confusing 'chiudete' with 'chiudete'
Make sure to pronounce the 'chi' as a 'k' sound; mispronouncing it as 'chee' makes the word unintelligible.
Using 'tu' instead of 'voi'
Avoid using 'chiudi' (the singular 'tu' form), as it sounds overly blunt or rude when addressing staff.
A small cultural note
In many smaller Italian towns, shops often close for a 'pausa pranzo' (lunch break) between 1:00 PM and 4:00 PM, so this question is vital for planning your day.
Frequently asked
Do shops in Italy stay open all day?
Many smaller, family-run shops close for a few hours in the afternoon. Larger stores and those in major tourist centers usually stay open continuously.
How do I ask if a place is open on Sundays?
You can ask 'Siete aperti la domenica?' to check their weekend schedule. Most shops in city centers are open, but smaller ones in residential areas may be closed.
What if they don't understand my Italian?
If they look confused, you can simply point to your watch and say 'Orario di chiusura?' with a questioning tone. Most Italians working in tourism will understand this immediately.
