Shopping and Store Opening Hours in Budapest During the Easter Holiday in 2025 + Pro Tips
If you’re planning a springtime visit to Budapest, you’ll quickly discover that Easter is one of the most significant holidays in Hungary. The city comes alive with traditions, colorful decorations, and a festive spirit. However, for foreign tourists, it’s essential to be aware of how the Easter holiday affects shopping and store opening hours. Knowing when and where you can shop will help you make the most of your Budapest adventure and avoid any last-minute surprises.
Understanding the Easter Holiday Schedule
In 2025, Easter falls between April 18th and April 21st, creating a four-day weekend that includes Good Friday (Nagypéntek), Holy Saturday (Nagyszombat), Easter Sunday (Húsvétvasárnap), and Easter Monday (Húsvéthétfő). Out of these four days, three are official public holidays in Hungary: Good Friday, Easter Sunday, and Easter Monday. On these days, most of the city’s major supermarkets and retail chains close their doors, giving both staff and shoppers a chance to enjoy the festivities.
What to Expect from Major Supermarkets
If you’re used to popping into a supermarket at any time, the Easter schedule in Budapest might require a bit of adjustment. The largest supermarket chains—including Lidl, SPAR, Tesco, CBA, Aldi, Penny, and Auchan—will all be closed on Good Friday, Easter Sunday, and Easter Monday. This means that on April 18th, 20th, and 21st, you won’t be able to shop at these stores. However, Holy Saturday (April 19th) is your golden opportunity. On this day, all major supermarkets will operate according to their usual Saturday hours, so you can stock up on essentials, snacks, and souvenirs before the holiday closures.
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Exceptions and Special Cases
While most large stores will be closed on the three main holiday dates, there are a few exceptions that can be a lifesaver for tourists. Some SPAR supermarkets, especially those located at petrol stations (such as OMV-SPAR express and Orlen-Despar), as well as certain SPAR partner and SPAR market stores, may remain open even on public holidays. The City SPAR supermarket at Budapest’s Liszt Ferenc International Airport is also open for travelers who need to grab something on the go.
Similarly, Auchan’s petrol station shops and automated terminals will continue to serve customers around the clock, even during the holiday period. However, the manned kiosks at these locations will be closed on Easter Monday.
Small Shops and Local Businesses
Not all shops in Budapest follow the same rules as the big chains. Privately owned small shops, convenience stores, and tobacco shops (trafiks) have the flexibility to decide whether to open on public holidays. In many cases, if the owner or a family member is working behind the counter, these shops may choose to open for a few hours, especially in busy tourist areas. However, opening times can vary widely, so it’s always a good idea to check in advance or ask your hotel for recommendations.
Where Else Can You Shop During Easter?
Even when most supermarkets are closed, you’ll still find some options for shopping and essentials. Petrol station shops, 24-hour convenience stores, newsstands, flower shops, and candy stores often remain open during the holidays. Restaurants, cafés, and entertainment venues also typically welcome guests throughout the Easter weekend, so you can still enjoy Budapest’s vibrant culinary scene.
Pharmacies operate on a special schedule during public holidays. Only designated 24-hour or on-duty pharmacies will be open, so if you need medication, check the official listings or ask your accommodation for the nearest available pharmacy.
Tips for a Smooth Easter Shopping Experience
To avoid any inconvenience, plan your shopping ahead of time. The days leading up to Easter, especially Thursday (April 17th) and Saturday (April 19th), are likely to be busier than usual as locals and tourists alike prepare for the holiday. If you need groceries, gifts, or travel essentials, try to shop early to beat the crowds and ensure you have everything you need for a relaxing Easter in Budapest.
After the holiday, all major supermarkets and stores will return to their regular opening hours starting Tuesday, April 22nd. If you’re staying in the city beyond the Easter weekend, you’ll find shopping returns to normal quickly.
Pro Tip
Visit one of the main markets of Budapest for a taste of Hungarian traditional cuisine and to see how locals prepare for the holiday.
Enjoying Easter in Budapest
Easter in Budapest is a magical time, filled with traditions, delicious food, and a welcoming atmosphere. While the holiday does bring some changes to store opening hours, a little planning goes a long way. Whether you’re exploring the city’s historic sites, sampling Hungarian Easter treats, or simply soaking up the festive ambiance, you’ll find plenty to enjoy. And with this guide, you’ll be well-prepared to navigate Budapest’s Easter shopping scene like a local.
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