Shopping in Bulgaria: Why Sundays Feel Like Saturdays
If you’ve traveled around Europe, you’ve probably run into that familiar weekend frustration — it’s Sunday, and almost everything is closed.
In countries like Poland, Germany, or Austria, Sunday is a day of rest. Supermarkets shut their doors, shopping malls go dark, and travelers quickly learn to plan their grocery trips ahead of time.
But Bulgaria? It plays by its own rules.
Here, Sunday is just another day to shop, stroll, and sip coffee.
???? Shops That Never Sleep
In Bulgaria, most supermarkets, malls, and shops are open seven days a week, and Sunday is no exception.
That flexibility makes life easier for both locals and travelers — you can explore all day, and still pick up whatever you need without rushing.
Typical opening hours:
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???? Large supermarkets (Billa, Lidl, Kaufland, Fantastico) — open daily from 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM
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???? Shopping malls (Paradise Center, Mall of Sofia, Sofia Ring Mall) — usually 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM
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???? Small family stores — may close earlier, around 7:00 PM, or take a rest day depending on the owner
And if you’re visiting coastal towns like Varna or Sunny Beach, many shops stay open late into the night during summer, turning even a casual stroll into a mini shopping adventure.
???????? A Different Story From Poland
Travelers coming from Poland will immediately notice the difference.
In Poland, most supermarkets are closed on Sundays (except for a few designated “shopping Sundays” per year). It’s part of a cultural norm that encourages rest and family time — but for tourists, it can be a bit inconvenient.
In Bulgaria, however, Sunday feels like an easy-going Saturday. Locals use it to shop, hang out in cafés, or catch a movie at the mall. There’s no need to plan your weekend around store hours — you can relax and enjoy the moment.
???? Quick Tips for Shoppers
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???? Cards are widely accepted, but carry some cash (leva) for small shops or markets.
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???? On public holidays, large malls often remain open, though smaller stores may close early.
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???? In villages or small towns, family-run shops may follow their own rhythm — don’t be surprised if the owner steps out for lunch and locks the door for an hour.
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???? Pharmacies and kiosks often operate on rotation and some are open 24/7.
???? A Small Convenience That Makes a Big Difference
It might seem like a small thing, but the fact that shops stay open on Sundays gives Bulgaria a unique kind of freedom.
You never have to worry about running out of snacks, water, or sunscreen — even on a lazy beach Sunday.
So whether you’re picking up souvenirs, groceries, or just a new pair of sandals, Bulgaria lets you do it at your own pace — seven days a week.
After all, in this warm and welcoming country, even Sunday refuses to rest.
