The bill exempts shops with less than 200 square metres of retail space, but only if the owner or a family member works in the shop.

Stores can be opened in the four weeks leading to Christmas and on one other Sunday of their choosing.

Stores selling solely baked goods and dairy products may be open on Sundays and rest days from 5 a.m., to noon, while the opening hours for newsagents and florists are set at 6 a.m. to noon. Stores in sports arenas may be open during events.

The law does not apply to pharmacies, petrol stations, nor retail outlets at airports, train and bus stations, prisons, health care institutions, nor military bases. Local markets and fairs are also exempt.

Exceptions are also made for catering, tourist shops, shops in World Heritage sites, as well as stores in public baths and cultural centres.

General opening hours are from 6 a.m., to 10 p.m. Opening hours are restricted to 6 a.m. to noon on December 24 and December 31, starting next year.

Source: Hungary Around the Clock

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