Why are French stores closed on Sunday?

Shops have been closed on Sundays in France for more than a century due to a 1906 law. Supermarkets open on Sunday mornings in most towns these days. Gradually more and more shops have been opening on the supposed day of rest.

Is Sunday a bad day for grocery shopping?

Evenings or midday on the weekends are usually the worst times to head to the store. Most people tend to do their grocery shopping for the week ahead on Saturdays and Sundays, so midday on either of these days is also a bad choice to shop.

Are all supermarkets closed on Sunday in Germany?

As in Germany, stores are closed on Sunday, but there are exceptions for tourism, train stations, airports, and the Christmas season.

Do supermarkets open on Sunday in France?

Sunday opening Traditionally speaking, shops do not open in France on Sundays; however the rules have changed in recent years, and now across France you will find supermarkets, DIY and gardening shops open on Sunday morning. In tourist areas the rules are more flexible, and all sorts of shops can now stay open all day.

Are supermarkets open in France?

Standard French Opening Hours This might be 8.30am for supermarkets or some services (doctor’s practices for example), or more like 10am for shops in rural areas. Closing times are generally between 6pm and 8pm. Pharmacies and banks typically close at 6pm, while some larger supermarkets may stay open to 8pm or 8.30pm.

What is the least busy day to grocery shop?

And for grocery store shopping, they suggest avoiding Saturday afternoons from 12 to 3 p.m. — which seems like common sense. Similarly, it’s unsurprising that Monday morning at 8 a.m. is the least popular time.

What days are grocery stores best stocked?

The best day to shop for the freshest ingredients If your store stocks daily, then first thing any morning should be fine. Otherwise, Tuesday or Wednesday mornings are often best.

What time do French supermarkets close on a Sunday?

They generally open from 8.30 a.m. (or earlier) until 8 p.m. (or later); other large stores in out-of-town shopping centres often close a bit earlier in the evening, often at 7 p.m. For Sunday opening and other exceptions, see below.

Are shops open on Sundays in France?

Sundays in France, when most shops are closed. Don’t expect to find shops open in France on Sundays. Sunday in France is still for most people a day of rest, and most shops are not allowed to open, except in specific locations at at certain times of year. Sunday is a day for window shopping in French towns, for most of the year.

What’s open and closed on public holidays in France?

However, “le pont” – the bridge – is a popular French institution, and when a public holiday falls on a Tuesday or a Thursday, many workplaces remain closed for the Monday or Friday too, meaning that certain services will be closed for four days. However, shops and banks and post offices tend to open normally when there is a “pont”.

What to expect from supermarkets in France?

Generally speaking, supermarkets in France are relatively inexpensive, particularly outside of city center areas. You’ll also have plenty of variety when it comes to choosing products. They are well-stocked with good quality fresh produce and dried groceries and most also have in-store bakeries.

Are French grocery stores the same as back home?

Whether you’re arriving in Paris or Perpignan, the local supermarket is probably one of the first places you visit in France. When you walk through the doors for the first time, you’ll probably soon realize that French grocery stores aren’t quite the same as back home. But that shouldn’t stop you from filling up that shopping cart.