Updated for 2026. This guide explains how Italy’s winter sales work, when they start by region, and what to check before you buy.
What Are “Winter Sales” in Italy?
Italy’s winter sales are called saldi invernali (end-of-season sales). The key thing to know is that rules and start dates are set region-by-region, so the calendar can vary depending on where you are shopping.
When Do Winter Sales Start in 2026?
In most of Italy, winter sales begin in early January. For 2026, most regions start on Saturday, 03/01/2026.
There are important exceptions (notably Valle d’Aosta, Alto Adige / South Tyrol, and Trentino), so always check your specific region below.
Official 2026 Calendar by Region
From the simplified official calendar published by Federazione Moda Italia–Confcommercio:
federazionemodaitalia.it
- Abruzzo: from 03/01/2026 for 60 days
- Basilicata: 03/01/2026 – 01/03/2026 (60 days)
- Calabria: from 03/01/2026 for 60 days
- Campania: from 03/01/2026 for 60 days
- Emilia-Romagna: from 03/01/2026 for 60 days
- Friuli Venezia Giulia: 03/01/2026 – 31/03/2026
- Lazio: from 03/01/2026 for 6 weeks
- Liguria: 03/01/2026 – 16/02/2026 (45 days)
- Lombardia: 03/01/2026 – 03/03/2026 (60 days)
- Marche: 03/01/2026 – 01/03/2026 (60 days)
- Molise: from 03/01/2026 for 60 days
- Piemonte: from 03/01/2026 for 8 weeks
- Puglia: from 03/01/2026 for 60 days
- Sardegna: from 03/01/2026 for 60 days
- Sicilia: 03/01/2026 – 15/03/2026
- Toscana: from 03/01/2026 for 60 days
- Umbria: from 03/01/2026 for 60 days
- Valle d’Aosta: 02/01/2026 – 31/03/2026
federazionemodaitalia.it - Veneto: 03/01/2026 – 28/02/2026
- Alto Adige (South Tyrol): 08/01/2026 – 05/02/2026 (most municipalities); 07/03/2026 – 04/04/2026 (selected tourist municipalities)
- Trentino (Province of Trento): 60 days, dates chosen by merchants
How to Tell if a Discount Is “Real” (Price Transparency)
When a store advertises a discount, price transparency rules require that the “previous price” shown is generally the lowest price applied in the previous 30 days. During winter sales, the reference “starting price” should reflect the lowest price in the 30 days before sales began.
Practical tip: If you’re eyeing a specific item, save a screenshot of the price in December. It makes it easier to judge whether the discount is truly worth it.
Returns, Exchanges, and Your Rights During Saldi
In-Store Purchases
For in-store purchases, returns or exchanges for “change of mind” are typically not guaranteed and depend on the shop’s policy. Ask before you pay, especially during sales.
Online Purchases
For online (distance) purchases, consumers generally have a 14-day right of withdrawal, with some exceptions.
Defective or Non-Conforming Goods
If an item is defective or not as described, consumer protections apply. Keep your receipt and contact the seller as soon as possible.
Tax-Free Shopping During Winter Sales (Non-EU Visitors)
If you’re a non-EU resident, Italy’s tax-free shopping rules can make winter sales even better. The minimum purchase threshold is €70.01 per receipt (same store, same day).
- Bring your passport details (many shops need them to issue tax-free paperwork).
- Keep the receipt and documents together for customs validation at your final EU departure point.
- Keep items accessible in case customs asks to see them.
Smart Shopping Tips for Winter Sales in Italy
- Know your sizing: Italian sizes can differ from US/UK sizing. Try on when possible.
- Ask about exchange rules: Before paying, confirm if exchanges are possible and within what timeframe.
- Check the label and workmanship: Seams, zippers, lining, and fabric composition matter more than the discount percentage.
- Keep receipts: Essential for any issue, and useful for tax-free processing where eligible.
FAQ
Do winter sales start on the same day everywhere in Italy?
No. Dates are set region-by-region. Most start on 03/01/2026, but there are notable exceptions like Valle d’Aosta (02/01/2026) and Alto Adige / South Tyrol (later dates).
Can I return sale items in Italy?
In-store returns for a change of mind are typically not guaranteed and depend on the shop’s policy. Online purchases generally have a 14-day withdrawal right, with exceptions.
Is tax-free shopping available during the sales?
Yes, if you are eligible as a non-EU resident and meet the minimum purchase threshold of €70.01 per receipt (same store, same day).