Why is everything closed on Sunday in Switzerland?

Because the Labour Act sets a general ban on Sunday work, from Saturday 23:00 to Sunday 23:00. Sunday shop opening is regulated by the cantons. Some shops need no permit, among them shops for travellers in railway stations, airports and border areas, kiosks and petrol station shops on motorways.

Ep. 43 · This is Ueli · 51 seconds. Watch

The real rule

Why the Swiss laugh, and what it means if you're new here.

In Switzerland, the quiet Sunday is not only a habit: the Labour Act bans most Sunday work, so most shops stay closed. The ones that open are mostly where travellers are: big stations, airports, border areas and tourist areas. As a newcomer, do the big shop on Saturday, and know where your nearest station shop is.

Swiss Sunday rules

Blüemli's verdict: Ding. Mostly closed. Sunday work is banned. Exceptions include shops at big stations and airports.

Be like Ueli. Shop on Saturday. Or at the station.

Learn more: Swiss Sunday rules

The rule, explained

SECO explains it in its FAQ on Sunday shop opening. The Labour Act sets a general ban on Sunday work, from Saturday 23:00 to Sunday 23:00. When shops may open on Sundays is regulated in the cantonal shop-opening laws. Some businesses need no permit: among others, shops for travellers in railway stations, airports and border areas, petrol station shops on motorways, kiosks, bakeries that sell mainly their own products, and businesses in tourist areas. That is why the station is busy on a Sunday morning, and why half the town meets there for butter. Ueli's Zopf, the Sunday bread, is a custom, not a rule.

Sources: SECO, FAQ Ladenöffnung am Sonntag

Questions people ask

Are shops open on Sunday in Switzerland?

Mostly no. Shops for travellers in railway stations, airports and border areas, kiosks and petrol station shops on motorways need no permit (SECO).

Who decides Sunday opening hours in Switzerland?

The cantons, in their shop-opening laws, under the federal ban on Sunday work (SECO).

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