Planning a vacation is all about timing - especially if you have your eye on a new wardrobe or local Greek goods. One of the most common surprises for travelers is the strictly regulated Sunday store hours in Greece. However, thanks to the recent Law 5157/2024, the retail landscape is now more predictable than ever.

Whether you are hitting the high-end boutiques of Athens or looking for a supermarket on the islands, here is how to master the 2026 Sunday shopping schedule and avoid those "Closed" signs during your trip.

The 2026 Sunday Shopping Schedule: 8 Key Dates

Under the current Greek legal framework, most retail stores remain closed on Sundays. However, there are 8 specific Sundays in 2026 when the entire country opens for business:

• January 18 & 25, 2026: Coinciding with the massive winter sales.
• April 5, 2026: Palm Sunday (Expect a festive rush before Easter).
• July 19, 2026: The peak date for summer sale enthusiasts.
• November 29, 2026: Post-Black Friday shopping weekend.
• December 13, 20 & 27, 2026: The essential holiday season trifecta.

Decoding the New Retail Rules (Law 5157/2024)

The updated regulations were designed to align Greek retail with modern tourism habits. Here is the survival manual for 2026:

• Automatic Holiday Shifts: If a designated shopping Sunday falls on a national holiday, the opening automatically shifts to the following Sunday.
• Major Mall Hours: Shopping centers like The Mall Athens, Golden Hall, and Attica typically operate from 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM.
• Neighborhood Boutique Flexibility: While malls stay open late, smaller shops in residential areas may wrap up earlier, around 6:00 PM.

Insider Secrets: Where the Rules Don't Apply

If you find yourself in Greece on a "Closed Sunday," there are still ways to get your shopping fix:

• Tourist Hotspots: In areas like Plaka (Athens), Mykonos, or Santorini, boutiques often stay open 7 days a week during the peak season.
• The Iconic "Periptero": These Greek street kiosks are legendary. They often run 24/7, selling everything from snacks to emergency essentials.
• Supermarket Specifics: Chains like Lidl or AB Vassilopoulos may open select locations on the 8 Sundays listed above, but Sklavenitis usually stays closed. Always check Google Maps for real-time status!

Frequently Asked Questions

When are the best sales in Greece for 2026?
The Winter Sales start January 12, and Summer Sales begin July 6. Expect 30–70% off retail prices.

Is everything closed on Sundays in the islands?
No. In major tourist destinations, smaller grocery stores and souvenir shops remain very active throughout the Sunday to accommodate visitors.

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Winter Sales 2026 in Greece: Dates, Sunday Shopping & What Shoppers Should Know