Summer hours are early start/early finish, and it's not unusual to see signs in city centre shops saying “cerrado por vacaciones” (closed for holidays) for the full month. Some Spanish work contracts even stipulate that employees have to take time off in August.
Is August a holiday in Spain?
August 15 is a public holiday in Spain and other predominantly Catholic countries like Italy because it is the Feast of the Assumption, known in Spanish as 'Fiesta de la Asunción'. It is observed as a religious occasion in Spain and has its origins in the spiritual heritage of the country.
What are the working days in Spain?
Spain has a standard working week of 40 hours, which is typically spread over five days. The maximum number of working hours per week is 48, and any hours worked above this must be paid as overtime. I'm sure you have heard of the famous Spanish siestas, and you are wondering if that is still the case in Spain or not.
Why are restaurants closed in Spain in August?
Traditionally the month for holidays is August, and during this time you shouldn't plan on advancing with big projects in Spain (like applying for school, getting a driver's license, etc.) and might want to consider that the restaurant you really wanted to try will be on holiday. It ties in to the work-to-live vs.
Does Spain work in August?
Do people work in August in Europe?
Every August, Americans watch with envy as people across Europe leave their jobs and shut down their shops to go on holiday for weeks on end. Historian Gary Cross explains that this European tradition began in the interwar years.
What time do people stop working in Spain?
Rule #6: Work hours in Spain: start late and end lateSpaniards work an average of 36 hours a week. Work hours in Spain are long, with people coming to work around 10 a.m. But this doesn't mean they don't work as hard. People enjoy very long lunch breaks and usually go home late, around 8:00 p.m. and 8:30 p.m.
Why do people in Europe take August off?
Why do Europeans take off August en masse? The idea that summer is for play, not work, seems hard to shake for many Europeans. The habit is especially ingrained in old manufacturing sectors. During and after the industrial revolution, entire factories in northern England would decamp to the same beachside resorts.
Does Madrid shut down in August?
Summer in Madrid means blistering heat, reaching its zenith in late July and the month of August. Madrid virtually closes in August, the "Madrileños" escaping from the concrete to Spain's coastal areas and many bars, restaurants and some smaller museums shutting shop for the month.