How Does Sunday & Holiday Hours Work in Poland?
Last verified: 2025-06 · Europe
1The Quick Answer
Polish law restricts large supermarkets and stores to only two Sundays per month; small owner-operated shops can open, and restaurants and cafés remain open.
2What You Need to Know
Poland's Sunday trading law (Ustawa o ograniczeniu handlu w niedziele) limits large chain stores and supermarkets to two designated trading Sundays per month, plus some exceptions around Christmas. Small shops operating under a sole trader license can open any Sunday. Restaurants, cafés, tourist attractions, and convenience stores like Żabka are generally open on Sundays. Catholic national holidays (there are 13 per year) see widespread closures similar to Sundays. Malls publicize their 'shopping Sundays' in advance — check local listings if you need a mall visit on Sunday.
3Practical Tips
Practical Tips
- 1Żabka convenience stores (bright green, very common) are usually open seven days a week including Sundays and holidays for snacks and basics
- 2Churches are particularly busy on Sunday mornings — if you plan to visit as a tourist, go after 12:00 to avoid disrupting services
- 3Check local listings or ask your hotel which Sundays are 'open Sundays' for malls if you specifically need retail shopping
How does this compare?
Sunday & Holiday Hours rules in nearby and similar countries:
Shops are closed on Sundays by law. Restaurants and cafés are open. Supermarkets close Sunday. Plan your grocery shopping for Saturday.
Large shops open shorter Sunday hours (typically 10am–4pm or 11am–5pm). Pubs and restaurants normal hours. Bank Holidays see widespread closures.
Most shops close on Sundays. Supermarkets open limited hours. Paris tourist areas have exceptions. Restaurants and bakeries open Sunday morning.
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