Opening hours of institutions in Cyprus: banks, shops, government agencies

On the island, business and shopping hours vary depending on the type of institution—government agencies, banks, shops, offices—and even the season. Below is a summary of typical, but not always strict, hours to help you plan your visits and purchases.

Government institutions and offices

1. For most government services, the working day starts between 07:30–08:30 and ends between 15:00–16:00, Monday through Friday.
2. Private companies often operate on a two-shift schedule:

• In the spring-autumn period (approximately from mid-September to the end of May) – 08:00–13:00 and 15:00–18:00 .
• In the summer months (from June 1 to September 14) – 08:00–13:00 and the second shift is often moved to the evening: 16:00–19:00 .

3. The entire operating mode is often adapted to the climate: in the hot months, a so-called “siesta break” during the day is possible.

Therefore, if you need to contact a government agency, it is recommended to arrive in the morning and before 15:00.

Banks and financial services

• Banks in Cyprus are open Monday through Friday. Normal hours are 8:30 AM to 1:00 PM, with additional opening hours from 3:15 PM to 4:45 PM starting Monday .
• During the summer months, opening hours may be more relaxed, with many banks only open in the morning until 1:00 pm.
• Banks are generally closed on weekends and public holidays. Exceptions are made only for branches catering to tourists.

If you need a banking service, plan your visit for the first half of the day, especially outside the tourist season.

Shops, supermarkets, shopping centers

Store opening hours depend on the location (city, tourist area, village), season, and type of retail outlet.

General guidelines:

• Monday–Saturday: Shops typically open around 07:00–09:00 and may stay open until 19:00–21:00 .
• During the summer (especially in July–August) there is often a daytime break (siesta) from approximately 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm .
• Some municipalities have a tradition of closing on Wednesdays and Saturdays during the day, or closing completely, especially outside tourist areas.
• In popular tourist areas, shopping malls and supermarkets, opening hours are usually more flexible: stores may be open after 6:00 PM and on Sundays.
• During the Christmas and Easter holidays, trade is usually reduced: shops close earlier.

Supermarkets and grocery stores

They often remain open without breaks, even when other stores are closed for siesta or holidays. This is convenient for buying groceries and household goods.

Restaurants, cafes and food

Cypriot food culture includes:

• Lunch – usually from 12:00 to 15:00 .
• Dinner traditionally begins after 7:00 pm and can last until late in the evening.

This applies to both restaurants and popular taverns—even in non-resort areas, kitchens are usually open in the evening.

Holidays and weekends

Cyprus has an official list of public holidays on which most institutions—government agencies, banks, and many shops—are closed. These include:

• January 1st – New Year
• January 6 – Epiphany (Photo)
• Easter dates (variable)
• May 1st – Labor Day
• August 15 – Dormition of the Virgin Mary
• October 1 is Cyprus Independence Day.
• October 28 is Okha Day
• December 25 and 26 – Christmas and Boxing Day

In resort areas, especially during summer and holiday periods, shops and supermarkets may be open, although this varies from location to location.

What should be taken into account?

• Hours may vary: even within a single city, opening hours of shops, banks and offices can vary greatly depending on the area (tourist, central, residential, rural).
• In tourist areas, opening hours are often extended: to serve guests, shops, pharmacies and food services may be open longer.
• Siesta in summer means there is a chance that some shops will be closed during the day, especially in non-tourist areas.
• Always check before visiting: this is especially true for banks, government agencies, post offices, and exhibitions—sometimes schedules change without prior notice.

Practical advice

• If you need to make a bank transfer, obtain official documents, or contact a government agency, plan your visit for the morning (before 1:00 PM–2:00 PM).
• For shopping: supermarkets will be more reliable than small shops in villages, especially during the day.
• During the summer months, don’t expect to find a store open during lunchtime between 2:00 PM and 5:00 PM unless it’s a supermarket or shopping center.
• On holidays and weekends, please check opening hours carefully, especially if you are on vacation or have just arrived on the island.

The opening hours of institutions in Cyprus are flexible and depend on many factors: season, type of institution, region, and target audience. To be on the safe side, it’s best to refer to the typical hours described above and check the schedule in advance, especially in unpredictable situations. For anyone living or traveling on the island, this knowledge will save time and avoid disappointment.