Christmas & New Year 2025: Guide to Shop Opening Hours in Crete

Newsflash from Thursday, 11 December 2025:

Heraklion at Christmas
Old town of Heraklion at Christmas.

The festive season is upon us, and with it comes the excitement of holiday shopping. Whether you’re looking for the perfect gift or last-minute essentials, knowing the shop opening hours during Christmas and New Year 2025 is essential to plan your visits smoothly. Here’s a clear guide to the recommended holiday schedule for stores across Greece, helping you make the most of the season.

Festive Opening Hours Overview

Starting from December 11, 2025, most shops will operate under a special festive schedule to accommodate holiday shoppers. According to the Athens Commercial Association, stores will generally open from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM on weekdays, with some variations on weekends and public holidays.

Key Dates and Hours

December 11-12 (Thursday-Friday): 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM
December 13 (Saturday): 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
December 14 (Sunday): 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
December 15 (Monday): 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
December 16-19 (Tuesday-Friday): 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM
December 20 (Saturday): 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
December 21 (Sunday): 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
December 22-23 (Monday-Tuesday): 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM
December 24 (Wednesday – Christmas Eve): 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
December 25-26 (Thursday-Friday – Christmas): Closed (Public Holidays)
December 27 (Saturday): 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
December 28 (Sunday): 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
December 29-30 (Monday-Tuesday): 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM
December 31 (Wednesday – New Year’s Eve): 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
January 1 (Thursday – New Year’s Day): Closed (Public Holiday)
January 2 (Friday): Closed

Sundays Are Open for Shopping

Notably, shops will be open on the three Sundays leading up to Christmas — December 14, 21, and 28 — with reduced hours from 11:00 AM to 4:00 or 6:00 PM. This extension provides ample opportunity for those who prefer weekend shopping or have busy weekday schedules.

Important Notes

– The above schedule is recommended and indicative, meaning individual stores may adjust their hours based on their own needs and local regulations.
– The official legal framework allows shops to operate from 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM Monday through Saturday, and 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM on Sundays.
– Always check with your local stores for any variations or special arrangements.

How to Make the Most of Holiday Shopping

– Plan your visits during weekday evenings when shops stay open later.
– Take advantage of Sunday openings if you need extra time.
– Remember that stores close early on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve.
– Public holidays on December 25, 26, and January 1 mean shops will be closed, so stock up beforehand.

Conclusion

With this festive schedule in mind, you can shop with confidence and avoid last-minute rushes. Whether you’re buying gifts or holiday supplies, the extended hours and Sunday openings offer flexibility to fit your busy holiday plans.

Happy Holidays and Happy Shopping!

Source: Cretalive.gr

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