Shopping and retail options in Austria: VAT refunds for tourists. Austrian eco-friendly stores. Specialty food markets. Local craft and souvenir shops. Designer and luxury outlets. Austrian supermarket chains. Seasonal sales and discounts. Vienna's thriving shopping districts. Online shopping convenience. Sustainable Austrian brands.
VAT refunds for tourists
To qualify for a VAT refund in Austria, tourists must have a domicile outside the EU, purchase goods exceeding EUR75 per invoice, export the goods within three months, and obtain a stamped form U34 from customs or an authorized company before leaving the EU. For detailed guidance, visit the Tax-Free Shopping Austria Guidelines provided by the relevant authorities.
Austrian eco-friendly stores
In Vienna, several stores offer eco-friendly and sustainable shopping options, including Zerum, ebenBERG, Glore Vienna, Consches, Glein, Greenground, and GuterStoff, which focus on sustainable and fair fashion, organic materials, and climate-neutral production methods. Furthermore, [sustainable fashion in Vienna](https://www.wien.info/en/livable-vienna/sustainable-vienna/sustainable-fashion-in-vienna-360546) is underscored by stores like Grune Erde and pagabei, specializing in organic and eco-friendly children's fashion, highlighting the city's commitment to sustainable retail.
Specialty food markets
Austria's specialty food markets, such as Vienna's Naschmarkt, offer a diverse and multicultural culinary experience with a wide range of local and international gourmet offerings, including seafood, organic produce, exotic spices, and traditional Austrian delicacies, along with numerous bars and restaurants.
Local craft and souvenir shops
In Austria, particularly in Vienna, local craft and souvenir shops offer a variety of unique items such as Augarten porcelain, Manner Schnitten, Altmann & Kuhne pralines, Staud's preserves, and FREYWILLE jewellery, each showcasing traditional Viennese craftsmanship and aesthetic. These shops, often located in central areas like Stephansplatz and Am Graben, provide authentic and beautifully packaged souvenirs that reflect the city's rich history and culture.
Designer and luxury outlets
The Parndorf Designer Outlet Center, located just 30 minutes from Vienna, is one of Central Europe's largest outlet malls, offering over 160 stores featuring high-end fashion labels like Gucci, Prada, and Burberry. Along with lifestyle brands, homeware, sports gear, and culinary options, the outlet presents a shopping experience set in a charming village-style architecture. For more information, you can visit the Parndorf Designer Outlet Center website.
Austrian supermarket chains
Austria's supermarket landscape is dominated by chains such as REWE, SPAR, and Hofer (Aldi), with REWE being the largest with a turnover of EUR9.57 billion in 2022 and operating under various banners. Other notable chains include Lidl, MPreis, Metro C&C, and regional players like Unimarkt and Kastner, each offering a range of products and shopping experiences. To explore a detailed analysis of these supermarket retail chains, visit the Top 10 Supermarket Retail Chains in Austria page.
Seasonal sales and discounts
In Austria, the best times for seasonal sales and discounts are late December to the end of January and mid-June to the end of July, with additional mid-season sales often occurring. International fashion chains typically offer heavier discounts, while quality Austrian products tend to have fewer bargains. For more details on shopping in Vienna, visit Vienna Unwrapped to explore various shopping opportunities and tips.
Vienna’s thriving shopping districts
Vienna's thriving shopping districts include luxury areas like Graben and Kohlmarkt with international brands, Mariahilfer Strasse for a mix of local and international shops, and Ringstrassen Galerien for high-end shopping. Additionally, the vibrant markets like Naschmarkt offer a diverse range of shopping experiences. For a more detailed guide, you can explore the Shopping in Vienna blog for insights into these bustling hubs.
Online shopping convenience
Online shopping in Austria is highly convenient, with dominant international retailers like Amazon, Zalando, and Ikea offering user-friendly interfaces, efficient delivery services, and a wide range of products. Meanwhile, local stores like Universal and E-tec.at also provide extensive product selections and quick delivery options.
Sustainable Austrian brands
In Vienna, sustainable fashion is represented by brands like Zerum, ebenBERG, Glore Vienna, Consches, Glein, Greenground, and GuterStoff, which focus on fair trade, eco-friendly materials, and climate-neutral production methods. These brands offer high-quality, stylish clothing and accessories made from organic materials, recycled polyester, and other sustainable sources. For more in-depth information, you can explore the options available at Sustainable Fashion In Vienna, where different facets of eco-friendly clothing are highlighted.