Working Days – Greece
Greece recognizes 14 public holidays annually, most of which are connected to Orthodox tradition and significant historical events. The standard working limit is 40 hours per week, and during holidays there is no obligation to work except in specific sectors.
Annual summary
| Other year | Working days | |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 251 | |
| 2025 | 249 | |
| 2026 | 251 | |
| 2027 | 253 |
Need to calculate business days between two specific dates? Greece business days calculator
Frequently asked questions
How is an employee's compensation calculated when working during a public holiday?
Work during a public holiday is compensated at an increased rate, typically 175% of the usual daily wage, plus entitlement to a compensatory rest day. The exact terms are determined by collective agreements and sectoral regulations.
What is the difference between Kathara Deftera and other public holidays?
Kathara Deftera (Clean Monday) marks the beginning of Lent according to the Orthodox calendar and is an official public holiday. The same compensation and rest rules apply as for other public holidays.
How many public holidays does Greece have compared to other EU countries?
Greece has 14 public holidays annually, which is an average number in Europe. This includes three holidays connected to Easter (Good Friday, Easter Sunday, Easter Monday) and other religious days.
Are there regional or local public holidays in Greece?
No, there are no official regional or local public holidays. All public holidays are national and apply throughout the country, regardless of region.
What happens if a public holiday falls on a Saturday or Sunday?
There is no substitute day off if the public holiday falls on a Saturday or Sunday. The holiday is already considered a rest day due to the weekend.