Wondering how long German shops are open during the week? Or if you can buy groceries on a Sunday?
Here are some helpful hints on what to expect when you go shopping in Germany.
Please note: The following opening hours (Öffnungszeiten) apply in general but can vary from shop to shop; stores in smaller towns close earlier than a shopping mall in Munich or Berlin.
Opening Hours for Shops, Bakeries, and Banks in Germany
German Department Stores:
Mo-Sat 10:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Sun closed
German Supermarkets and Shops:
Mon-Fri 8:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Sat 8:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m. (smaller supermarkets close between 6 and 8 p.m.)
Sun closed
Shops in smaller towns might shut down for a 1-hour lunch break (usually between noon and 1 p.m.).
German Bakeries:
Mon - Sat 7:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Sun 7:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
German Banks:
Mon - Fri 8:30 a.m. - 4 p.m.; cash machines are available 24/7
Sat/Sun closed
Shopping on Sundays
In general, German shops are closed on Sundays; exceptions are bakeries, shops at gas stations (open 24/7), or convenient stores in train stations.
In bigger cities, look out for little shops called "Spätkauf"; opening hours vary, but they are usually open until 10 or 11 p.m. during the week, and on Sunday afternoons.
Christmas, Easter, Public Holidays in Germany
All shops, supermarkets, and banks are closed on German public holidays, Easter, and Christmas. Museums and other attractions have special opening hours, and trains and busses run on a limited schedule. Make sure to plan ahead.
