Shoppers in Thessaloniki can begin planning their Easter purchases as the city’s special holiday retail schedule comes into effect on April 2, according to the Thessaloniki Commercial Association.

The adjusted Easter shopping hours are designed to accommodate increased consumer demand during the lead-up to one of Greece’s most important religious holidays. The extended schedule will remain in place throughout Holy Week, offering longer and more flexible opening times.

When Shops Open Before Holy Week

Retail stores will operate on extended hours at the start of April. On Thursday, April 2, and Friday, April 3, shops will be open from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. On Saturday, April 4, stores will close earlier, operating from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

On Palm Sunday, April 5, stores will welcome customers from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Holy Week Shopping Hours

From Holy Monday, April 6, through Holy Thursday, April 9, shops will follow a continuous schedule, remaining open daily from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Hours change on Good Friday, April 10, a solemn day in the Greek Orthodox calendar. Stores will open later, from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m.

On Holy Saturday, April 11, the final day before Easter Sunday, shops will operate from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Easter Closures

All retail stores will remain closed on Easter Sunday, April 12, and Easter Monday, April 13, in line with national observance of the holiday.