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Hungary’s 1 May holiday: 4-day weekend, public transport changes and store closures explained
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Hungary is heading into a four-day weekend from 1 to 4 May in 2025, as Labour Day (a munka ünnepe, 1 May) falls on a Thursday, and Friday, 2 May has been declared an official rest day. This extended break means several changes to store opening hours across the country, with most large supermarket chains closing for the national holiday.
What will be open and closed on 1 May?
1 May is a public holiday in Hungary, so most large retailers will be closed for the day, Startlap reports. However, some services and types of shops will remain open. Here’s what you need to know:
Grocery chains:
- Aldi: All stores will be closed on Thursday, 1 May, but will reopen as usual on Friday and over the weekend.
- Lidl: Closed on 1 May, then open on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday following regular hours.
- Penny Market: Shops will not open on Thursday but will operate normally from Friday through Sunday.
- Spar & Interspar: Stores will be closed on 1 May. However, Spar Express locations at OMV gas stations, DESPAR non-stop stores, and select Spar partner or market stores may remain open. From Friday onward, regular hours resume.
- Tesco: Also closed on 1 May, with normal operations resuming on Friday. Since opening hours may vary by location, it’s recommended to check Tesco’s website for specific details.
- Auchan: Closed on Thursday, open on Friday and the weekend according to their standard schedule.
- CBA and Príma: These stores will be closed on the public holiday but will reopen on Friday and continue normal operations through the weekend.
Where you can shop on 1 May
Despite the widespread closures, certain types of businesses are permitted to remain open, including:
- Shops located at petrol stations
- Convenience stores that operate non-stop
- Flower shops
- Newsstands
- Confectionery stores
- Tobacco shops run by the owner or family members
- Restaurants and cafés
Online grocery services
For those preferring to avoid the holiday rush, online services like Foodora Market and Wolt Market will continue operating as usual, with home delivery available.
Pharmacies
Only 24-hour or duty pharmacies will be open on 1 May. If you need to visit one, be sure to check which local pharmacy is on duty.
As always during public holidays in Hungary, it’s advisable to plan ahead—especially if you’re staying in the country as a visitor or expat.
