Hello - will be in Switzerland (based in Lucerne) in mid June (2024). Reading that Swiss shops are closed on Sundays. True? Even in popular towns like Interlaken?
Posted by
California USA
4099 posts
Most shops will be closed on Sunday in Switzerland. You can go to Lucerne, Interlaken or any city, search for shops, groceries, etc and Google maps will show today’s hours and with a drop-down arrow show you all of the week’s hours. I did a quick search and more than half but not all indicated that they are closed on Sunday.
It's been like that for a very long time so don’t leave any shopping until Sunday. I once had to plan a birthday dinner and cake for a 1 year old in a small city in Switzerland on a Sunday, the day after our late arrival. I brought a candle and some ingredients with me. The rest we had to buy at the grocery store that was open in the train station on Sunday.
Posted by
Green Bay
21140 posts
From Luzern station site
https://www.sbb.ch/en/travel-information/stations/find-station/lucerne-station/shopping.html?tags=1&page=1&pageOpen=1
Everything for your daily needs. 365 days a year. From early till late.
Posted by
Vancouver, BC
381 posts
Generally, yes, non-tourist businesses are closed. But if you know about it, you work with it and it's fine.
Stores at the big train stations are all open. Restaurants are open. Trinket shops in the tourist centers are open. Five trips to Switzerland and it has never been an issue. Christmas in Switzerland did take some planning, but a regular Sunday is very doable if you are aware
Posted by
San Diego, California
5597 posts
I've also found that many shops close early on Saturdays, around 4pm. Enjoy your visit in this beautiful country!