Shopping on August 1st: These stores are open in Switzerland
August 1st is the Swiss National Day. On this day, most shops in Switzerland are closed, as it is a public holiday. Many people use the day off for excursions or barbecues with their families.
However, those who still need to buy groceries or other items at short notice on the national holiday will find some stores open at certain locations. There are exceptions, particularly at large train stations, as these shops often have special permits to sell goods on public holidays.
In Bern, for example, customers can shop at the train station. Migros there is open from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., while the Coop at Bern station is available to customers from 7:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. The Lidl branch at Bern station also welcomes visitors between 10:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m.
In addition to the large train stations, there are a few other options available. For instance, the Migros branch in Zweisimmen is open on August 1st from 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. However, it is recommended to check the exact opening hours of local branches before visiting, as these can vary significantly depending on the region.
In summary, while supplies are limited on this public holiday, travelers and those making last-minute plans can still find what they need at central hubs. It is still advisable to plan your shopping for the festive meal well before August 1st.