What time does it open?
a ke O-ra A-pre
Asking about opening time of a supermarket or food shop.
Italian shop hours vary significantly by region, size, and season. Many independent food shops still close for two to three hours at lunch (orario spezzato). Large supermarkets tend to have continuous hours. Always worth checking before making a trip.
A che ora chiude?
What time does it close?
Asking about closing time
È aperto il pomeriggio?
Is it open in the afternoon?
Checking if the afternoon break applies
È aperto la domenica?
Is it open on Sunday?
Sunday opening is not universal in Italy
The orario spezzato (split schedule) is a distinctly Mediterranean tradition. In Rome, many small food shops close from 1pm to 4 or even 5pm. In Milan, the city's faster pace means more shops operate continuous hours. Tourist areas adapt to visitor needs.