Lucrezia Ciotti Daylight saving time returns in Italy on the night between Saturday, October 24, and Sunday, October 25 , 2026. The change involves moving the clocks back one hour, from 3:00 a.m. to 2:00 a.m., with the option of an extra hour of sleep. The change, however, doesn't just affect clocks: it could temporarily affect sleep patterns and reignite the debate over whether daylight saving time should continue year-round.
Permanent daylight saving time, Terna data on consumption and possible savings
The return to standard time reopens the debate on abolishing seasonal changes. The issue was examined by the Chamber of Deputies' Productive Activities Committee, which compared three scenarios: the current system, permanent standard time, and maintaining daylight saving time year-round.
According to Terna 's estimates , the current system would save approximately 302 GWh of electricity in 2026. With permanent daylight saving time, the savings could rise to 462 GWh annually, with an estimated economic benefit of €120 million in 2026 and approximately €100 million in 2030. The energy advantage, however, has diminished in recent years, thanks in part to the increased efficiency of lighting systems.
Even at the European level, discussions are still ongoing. In 2019, the European Parliament approved a proposal to eliminate the seasonal change, but the lack of agreement among member states has blocked the process. Therefore, the current system will remain in place in Italy: standard time will return on October 25, 2026 , while the switch to daylight saving time is scheduled for March 2027.
Daylight Saving Time 2026: When to Move Clocks and What Happens to Our Body
The return to standard time marks the end of the seven-month period of daylight saving time, which began on March 29. On the night of October 25, at 3:00 a.m. , clocks will be reset to 2:00 a.m. Smartphones, computers, and most digital devices will automatically update their time, while analog clocks will need to be adjusted manually. From then on, there will be more light in the early hours of the day, but darkness will arrive earlier in the afternoon and evening.
Fabrizio Pregliasco, director of the School of Specialization in Hygiene and Preventive Medicine at the University of Milan – La Statale, past president of ANPAS, and vice president of Samaritan International, draws attention to the effects of this change. The expert, speaking to Adnkronos, emphasizes that rest doesn't necessarily adjust to the same speed as clocks: " The hands of the clock move in an instant; our bodies may need a few days ."
The change can cause daytime drowsiness, early awakenings, irritability , and concentration problems, especially for people who already have trouble sleeping . To cope with the transition, Pregliasco recommends maintaining regular bedtime and mealtimes , spending time outdoors during daylight hours, and continuing to exercise. In the evening, however, it's best to limit caffeine and alcohol , avoid overly large meals , and reduce stimuli before bed. For children, it may be helpful to gradually change their habits, without interrupting their bedtime rituals.
You don't automatically need to resort to supplements or sleep aids: a balanced diet and a regular lifestyle remain the basic guidelines. You should also pay attention to fatigue when driving or performing activities that require alertness. If insomnia, fatigue, or mood swings persist and interfere with your daily routine, it's a good idea to discuss it with your doctor. As Pregliasco reminds us, " Sleeping well is a key component of prevention, not the time left over from all your other commitments ."