Greeks are celebrating Clean Monday today, and preparations for the traditional Lenten table are at their peak. The day marks the beginning of Lent and represents a special case for the market: it is not a mandatory public holiday for the private sector; however, in practice, most retail businesses remain closed, with some smaller market chains remaining open.
Major chains will remain closed, including:
- Sklavenitis
- AB Vassilopoulos
- Masoutis
Which stores will open and their operating hours
Lidl stores will operate from 07:45 to 16:00.
Selected stores of the myMarket chain will serve customers from 08:00 to 14:00, both in Athens and in regional areas.
Smaller Shop & Go–type stores, as well as OK! Markets and Bazaar outlets, will operate normally, in many cases with extended hours.
Bakeries will be open from early morning for the traditional lagana bread, along with fish markets, open-air markets, pastry shops selling traditional halva, as well as kiosks and mini markets.
Cafés, tavernas, and food service establishments in general will operate as usual, offering options for those choosing to celebrate outside their homes.
Commercial stores
Commercial retail stores nationwide, as well as shopping centers and department stores, will remain closed. Clothing, footwear, electronics stores, and organized retail businesses will not operate.
An exception applies to dining venues and cinemas located within shopping malls, which will welcome the public as usual.
Varvakios Market and Rentis Market
For consumers seeking fresh seafood, the Varvakios Agora and the Rentis Market will operate continuously from Sunday night until midday on Clean Monday.
Professionals recommend completing purchases early in the morning, as after 11:00 a.m. traffic peaks and access becomes more difficult.
