Your Guide To Shopping Hours In Athens For 2024
- by XpatAthens
- Wednesday, 17 January 2024
When planning your shopping excursions, it's essential to know about the diverse opening hours observed across different regions and types of stores.
Here's a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the bustling shopping scene in Athens.
Opening Hours in Large Cities & Shopping Malls
In the vibrant centers of large cities, as well as large municipalities, stores typically follow continuous opening hours from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. This trend extends to renowned brands, department stores, and shopping malls, which typically operate from 9:00 or 10:00 a.m. until 9:00 p.m.
Small Neighborhood Shop Hours
For most smaller and suburban stores, the working hours follow a unique schedule. On Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday, you can shop during split shifts from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. and then again from 5:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. On Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday, these shops are open from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Supermarkets
In the vibrant centers of large cities, as well as large municipalities, stores typically follow continuous opening hours from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. This trend extends to renowned brands, department stores, and shopping malls, which typically operate from 9:00 or 10:00 a.m. until 9:00 p.m.
Small Neighborhood Shop Hours
For most smaller and suburban stores, the working hours follow a unique schedule. On Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday, you can shop during split shifts from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. and then again from 5:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. On Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday, these shops are open from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Supermarkets
Supermarkets operate on continuous shifts, typically from 8:00 a.m. or 9:00 a.m. until 9:00 p.m. on weekdays and until 8:00 p.m. on Saturdays.
Banking Hours
Banks in Greece operate from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., Monday to Friday.
Sunday Shopping in Greece
On Sundays, shops selling food, drinks, and fuel are typically open from 07:00 to 22:00. Moreover, since 2018, specific regions have allowed commercial stores to open every Sunday from May to October.
Banking Hours
Banks in Greece operate from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., Monday to Friday.
Sunday Shopping in Greece
On Sundays, shops selling food, drinks, and fuel are typically open from 07:00 to 22:00. Moreover, since 2018, specific regions have allowed commercial stores to open every Sunday from May to October.
In 2024, mark your calendar for special Sundays, including those during sales periods, Black Friday, and the festive season. Shops will remain open the following Sundays:
- The first Sunday of the winter sales: January 14th
- The second Sunday of the winter sales: January 21st
- Palm Sunday: April 28
- The first Sunday of the summer sales: July 14
- The first Sunday after Black Friday: November 29
- The penultimate Sunday before Christmas: December 15
- The last Sunday before Christmas: December 22
- The last Sunday of the year: December 29
Supermarkets may formulate individual policies regarding Sunday operations. During sale periods, most supermarkets are closed on Sundays, while they remain open during festive periods like Christmas and Easter.
Public Holidays
During public holidays, shops remain closed. In 2024, public holidays in Greece include:
- New Year’s Day: January 1
- Epiphany: January 6
- Clean Monday (Ash Monday): March 18
- Greek Independence Day: March 25
- Orthodox Good Friday: May 1 (shops are open but close early)
- Orthodox Easter: May 3
- Orthodox Easter Monday: May 5
- Pentecost Monday: May 6
- Day of the Holy Spirit: June 23 - June 24
- Assumption of the Virgin Mary: August 15
- "Oxi" Day (National Holiday): October 28
- Christmas & Boxing Day: December 25 & 26
For around 3 weeks leading up to the end of the year, stores in Greece embrace the festive season by opening daily from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. This provides customers with ample time to find the perfect gifts and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. A similar schedule is observed for the 10 days leading up to Easter. However, it's essential to note exceptions during Palm Sunday, Good Friday, and Holy Saturday when stores follow a different schedule.
Please be aware that opening hours, especially during holidays and special occasions, are subject to change. We highly recommend double-checking the current schedules before embarking on your next shopping spree. This ensures you make the most of your time and enjoy a stress-free and delightful shopping experience.
Happy shopping!