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Alice
6. 4. 2023
Vienna, the capital of Austria, is renowned for its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant cultural scene. But beyond its historical and artistic offerings, the city also presents a unique shopping experience. This article will guide you through shopping in Vienna, detailing what to buy and the best places to find them.
Must-Buy Items in Vienna
- Viennese Porcelain: While shopping in Vienna, don’t miss the opportunity to acquire some exquisite Viennese porcelain. Known for its intricate designs and exceptional craftsmanship, Augarten Porcelain is a favorite among collectors. Visit the Augarten Porcelain Manufactory to find elegant tableware, figurines, and decorative items.
- Sacher Torte: No visit to Vienna is complete without indulging in the famous Sacher Torte, a delicious chocolate cake filled with apricot jam and topped with a chocolate glaze. Purchase an original Sacher Torte from Hotel Sacher or Café Sacher to enjoy this delectable Viennese delight at home.
- Austrian Wine: Austria is known for its high-quality wines, and shopping in Vienna offers a chance to take home some exceptional bottles. Visit a local wine shop, such as Wein & Co., to explore a variety of Austrian wines, including Grüner Veltliner, Zweigelt, and Blaufränkisch.
- Swarovski Crystal: Austrian-made Swarovski crystal is world-famous for its brilliance and precision-cut designs. While shopping in Vienna, consider picking up some elegant jewelry, figurines, or home accessories adorned with these sparkling crystals. The flagship Swarovski store on Kärntner Strasse is a great place to start.
- Mozartkugeln: These delightful chocolate and marzipan confections are named after the famous composer Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and make for a sweet souvenir. Find them in various confectionery stores, such as Manner or Heindl, throughout the city.
Shopping Districts and Malls in Vienna
- Graben and Kohlmarkt:For luxury shopping in Vienna, head to the upscale streets of Graben and Kohlmarkt. Here, you’ll find exclusive international brands like Chanel, Gucci, and Louis Vuitton, as well as prestigious Austrian jewelers and boutiques.
- Mariahilfer Strasse: This bustling shopping street offers a mix of international and local brands, department stores, and trendy boutiques. Explore shops like Peek & Cloppenburg, Zara, and H&M, as well as independent stores selling unique fashion, accessories, and home goods.
- Naschmarkt: Vienna’s most famous market, offering fresh produce, gourmet food, and unique items from around the world. Browse the various stalls and savor the sights, smells, and tastes of this vibrant market, which dates back to the 16th century.
- Ringstrassen Galerien: This elegant shopping center, located near the Vienna State Opera, houses a variety of high-end shops, including Swarovski, Hugo Boss, and Wolford. It’s the perfect place for shopping in Vienna when seeking luxury brands in a refined setting.
Related: Vienna Photography Spots: Unraveling the Elegance of the Imperial City
Local Markets and Specialty Shops
- Freyung Market: This charming market, set in a picturesque square, offers an array of artisanal food, seasonal products, and handicrafts. It’s an excellent opportunity to shop for unique souvenirs and sample traditional Austrian cuisine.
- J. & L. Lobmeyr: Established in 1823, J. & L. Lobmeyr is an iconic Viennese glassware and crystal store. Their beautifully designed and crafted products, including chandeliers, glassware, and decorative items, make for elegant and timeless souvenirs. Visit their flagship store on Kärntner Strasse to explore their exquisite collection.
- Demel: For a taste of Vienna’s rich pastry and confectionery tradition, stop by Demel, a historic patisserie dating back to 1786. Their luxurious chocolates, cakes, and pastries make for delightful treats to bring back home.
- Meinl am Graben: This gourmet food store, located on the prestigious Graben Street, offers a wide range of high-quality products, including Austrian wines, cheeses, and chocolates. It’s an excellent place to shop for foodie souvenirs and experience the best of Austrian gastronomy.
- Wiener Silber Manufactur: Specializing in handcrafted silverware, Wiener Silber Manufactur creates beautiful and functional items, such as cutlery, candleholders, and serving dishes. Visit their showroom in the heart of Vienna to find the perfect gift or keepsake.
Tips for Shopping in Vienna
- Currency: The local currency in Austria is the euro (EUR). Most shops, markets, and malls accept major credit cards, but it’s a good idea to carry cash for smaller transactions or at local markets.
- VAT Refund: Non-EU tourists can claim a VAT refund on purchases over a certain amount. Be sure to ask for a tax-free form when shopping and have it stamped by customs upon leaving the EU.
- Bargaining: Haggling is not common in Vienna’s shops and malls, but you may be able to negotiate a better price at local markets or with street vendors, particularly when purchasing multiple items.
- Opening Hours: Most shops in Vienna are open from 9 AM to 6 PM on weekdays, with shorter hours on Saturdays and closed on Sundays. Shopping centers and supermarkets may have extended hours.
In conclusion, shopping in Vienna offers a diverse and memorable experience, with a wealth of unique items to choose from. Whether you’re seeking luxury brands, traditional handicrafts, or delightful culinary treats, the city has something for everyone. Immerse yourself in Vienna’s rich shopping culture by visiting its charming markets, bustling shopping streets, and elegant malls, and bring home a piece of this enchanting city.
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FAQs
Graben is arguably the most well-known shopping street in Vienna, admired for its glamorous retail stores and restaurants.
What you Cannot miss in Vienna? ›
Step into Vienna's storied past by exploring the Historic Center and Schönbrunn Palace. Be sure to visit the Kunsthistorisches Museum and catch a classical concert too.
What is the best Vienna porcelain? ›
When talking of porcelain from Vienna, Augarten simply has to be on the list. As one of the oldest porcelain manufacturers, Augarten Vienna can look back over 300 years of history. Now as then, Augarten porcelain is made and painted by hand.
Is Vienna good for shopping? ›
Shopping in Vienna. Vienna offers shopping pleasure to suit every taste – from the leading addresses of the fashion world to Viennese handicrafts and culinary souvenirs.
Which brands are cheap in Vienna? ›
There is no such thing as reasonably priced clothing for decent quality in Austria. Austria is great for many things, but not bargain shopping. Check out the Mariahilferstraße, the main shopping street in Vienna. Look for H&M, Zara, Bershka, C&A, Peek & Cloppenburg, Kleider Bauer...
What jewelry is Austria known for? ›
Austrian crystal is a high-quality, sparkling glass that is known for its clarity and brilliance. This type of jewelry can include a wide range of items, such as earrings, pendants, bracelets, and rings.
Which areas to avoid in Vienna? ›
While the central part of the street is bustling and safe, you can encounter drunk people in areas closer to the Favoriten district, particularly at night. Also, if you plan to live in Favoriten, avoid Gudrunstraße (particularly its northern part) and Quellenstraße when alone at night.
Is it rude to tip in Vienna? ›
If the service charge is not already added to your bill, then tipping is at your discretion - but will always be appreciated. The staff working in restaurants and hotels in Vienna often have tough jobs for lower end wages - think twice before canceling any gratuity tip request on their payment terminals.
What not to do when visiting Vienna? ›
Things you should skip in Vienna, & six things to do instead!
- (1) Don't pay to go into ALL of the Hofburg Palace museums/areas. ...
- (2) Don't pay to go to the top of St. ...
- (3) Don't visit every palace in Vienna. ...
- (4) Don't go to Hotel Sacher for the famous Viennese Sachertorte (cake) ...
- (5) Don't eat schnitzel or sausage.
What is the best Vienna sausage to buy? ›
As you can see from the data list posted below, Armour's Hot and Spicy and Barbecue versions were the clear winners. Runners up included Sam's (Wal-Mart) Great Value and Kroger's Barbecue Vienna Sausage, which tied for third place. Armour also placed in the top-ten with other varieties, including its Lite version.
While its products are expensive, the high quality and artistic value make Meissen porcelain desirable by collectors and connoisseurs.
What should I buy in Vienna, Austria? ›
What to Buy in Vienna in 2024?
- Sachertorte. No visit to Vienna is complete without indulging in the city's most famous culinary creation – the Sachertorte. ...
- Viennese Wine. ...
- Viennese Porcelain. ...
- Viennese Crystal. ...
- Luxury Fashion and Accessories. ...
- Mozartkugeln. ...
- Dirndl and Lederhosen. ...
- Lipizzaner Souvenirs.
Can you wear jeans in Vienna? ›
Ladies, wearing a pair of dark jeans or pants, or even a dress, would pass as local. Blouses and skirts, depending on the weather, would also be appropriate. Avoid sweatpants, leggings, and any clothing with big brand names front and center on them will just make you stand out.
What is the famous shopping street in Vienna? ›
Graben Street Vienna Graben Street, Vienna's Heart of Shopping.
What is Vienna best known for? ›
A visit to Vienna would be incomplete without a concert, opera or musical performance. After all, Vienna is the world's music capital, with thousands of music performances each year.
What is the clothing style in Austria? ›
Austrian clothing has a rich and storied past just like the Alpine culture from which it evolved. Hallmarks of the style are the 'boiled' wool fabrics, called Loden, developed by Alpine herdsmen and farmers in the Austrian Alps. Loden garments have been a staple of Austrian clothing for centuries.
Is Vienna expensive for shopping? ›
Vienna can be expensive for tourists (if you keep buying stuff), but is generally considered much less expensive than European counterparts such as London, Paris or Rome. You should be able to do Vienna fairly easily on a budget, although it is still the most expensive city in Austria.
Is Vienna a fashion city? ›
Vienna in Fashion
The Viennese fashion scene has several established designers to offer, who have also achieved international fame and success.