Sunday Rest (Sonntagsruhe) Explained
Protected since 1919 in the German constitution, Sunday is a nationwide day of rest and quiet (Ruhetag). Across all 16 federal states, ordinary supermarkets, clothing stores, electronics shops, hardware stores, and pharmacies close from Saturday evening (typically 20:00 in Bavaria and 21:00–22:00 elsewhere) until Monday morning.
What Stays Open on Sundays in Germany?
- Museums, Castles, Palaces & Attractions: Almost all museums, zoos, thermal baths, and castles are open on Sundays (and often close on Mondays instead!).
- Cafés, Bakeries, Restaurants & Beer Gardens: Neighborhood bakeries open Sunday mornings (usually 07:30–11:30) for fresh Sonntagsbrötchen and cakes, and restaurants/beer gardens operate full hours.
- Hauptbahnhof & Airport Supermarkets: Major railway stations (Berlin Hbf, München Hbf, Frankfurt Hbf, Hamburg Hbf, Köln Hbf) and airports house licensed travel supermarkets (REWE To Go, EDEKA, Rossmann Express) and 24-hour pharmacies (Notdienst-Apotheke) open every Sunday.