However, this difference can be a good thing. While in large cities and out-of-town shopping areas, opening hours are typically adhered to, in rural areas they can be a moveable feast! Forget punctuality – instead, opening hours are often from ‘around 9am’ onwards, appointments are rarely on time, and life in general has a slower rhythm. Especially when you find yourself mid-DIY task and in need of a specific product, then pop to the local DIY store only to find it is closed! No matter how many times you are told that most shops close for lunch between 12 and 2pm, it just does not quite seem to stick in that first year. The truth is, while many people move to France for a slower pace of life and a less stressful lifestyle, that change does take a little getting used to. The shopping hours might be the singularly most frustrating thing you have to get to grips with during your first year in France – especially if you are renovating!
In rural areas, especially in non-tourist areas, some shops or restaurants may also close down over August or close for a week or two holiday, so double-check opening hours to avoid disappointment. It’s a good idea to anticipate this and schedule any important rendez-vous for July or September. Renovation works will likely also be halted throughout August. Although emergencies will still be catered for, it can be a tricky time to get appointments for non-urgent medical procedures, consultations with your bank, or even an appointment with your favourite hairdresser at this time. Trades often close in August as most of France goes on holiday. Small shops and services in rural communities often close on Mondays, and may only be open for a half-day on Wednesdays and Fridays too! Shopkeepers often close on a Monday if they are open on a Sunday. However, these rules have started to relax slightly in recent years and you may find some shops and supermarkets opening on a Sunday morning, especially in tourist areas or large cities. Typically, shops and businesses do not operate on Sundays or Jour fériés (bank holidays) in France. Supermarkets, shops within shopping centres, and some large shops do not close over lunch, but it’s always worth double-checking before you head out. You may find shops reopen at 3pm or even 4pm and stay open until 7pm or later in the summer months. Some also extend this to 3pm, especially in rural areas. Many establishments close between 12 and 2pm for lunch, and this can include shops, banks, and offices.
Sunday openings are rare and strictly regulated. Most establishments are open Monday through Saturday, and many places close over lunchtime. One exception is the 24/7 emergency pharmacies which are available in some cities. It’s unusual for French shops to have late-night openings as in other countries, and you won’t find 24-hour supermarkets or all-night services in France either. Pharmacies and banks typically close at 6pm, while some larger supermarkets may stay open to 8pm or 8.30pm. Closing times are generally between 6pm and 8pm. This might be 8.30am for supermarkets or some services (doctor’s practices for example), or more like 10am for shops in rural areas. Most shops, banks, offices, and services in France open at 9am in the morning.
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