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Shopping in Austria : 18 Best Things to Buy as a tourist.
When you think of shopping in Europe, London and Paris probably come to mind. But shopping in Austria? Hardly anyone talks about it.
But after travelling for two weeks in Austria with my mum—who has a sharp eye for unique finds—couldn’t help but wonder why. Beyond souvenirs, you can find so many useful things to buy from Austria.
From local supermarkets stocked with special herbs—like the ones our Tyrolean pension host used in cheese spaetzle—to flea markets selling wooden cutting boards found in rural homes, there’s no shortage of unique shopping spots to explore.
In this guide, I’ll share some great things to buy from Austria, where to find them, and useful shopping tips—so you can plan your budget and bring home something truly special.
1. Austrian Wine
Austria produces some incredible white wines, yet many travellers don’t realise it! If you enjoy crisp, citrusy wines, Grüner Veltliner in Wachau region is a must-try and buy. It’s smooth, balanced, with hints of nectarine and white pepper—not too sweet, not too dry.
Austria is among the top 15 wine exporters, yet most of its best wines are kept for local consumption.
That means you’ll find higher quality and lower prices in the country than anywhere else. In supermarkets, a decent bottle starts at €6–€10, while premium ones can go up to €40+.
I tried many brands, but Domäne Wachau stood out—it cost €25 and was worth every sip.
Where to buy best Austrian wine?
2. Zaunhocker, AKA Fence sitter.
While walking through Melk, I spotted something unusual—porcelain dolls sitting on wooden sticks! They looked like owls, chickens, even a joker with a poker face. Later, in a village near Krems, I saw them perched on fences, adding a quirky charm to homes.
Curious, I asked an elderly man about them. He smiled and said, “They protect wooden posts from rain and snow!” It’s a tradition from Austria and Bavaria, blending practicality with folk art.
Even if you don’t have a fence, these dolls make fun tabletop decorations or garden ornaments. Some are hand-painted, and each has its own unique character. Small ones start at €15, while detailed, larger ones can go up to €50.
If you want a quirky, truly Austrian souvenir, a Zaunhocker is a fun and unique find!
Where to Buy Zaunhocker?
They’re rare in big cities, so if you spot one, grab it! They’re lightweight and easy to carry, but if you buy a delicate one, wrap it well for your luggage.
3. Dirndl – The traditional Austrian outfit for women
If you’ve ever seen pictures of Austria’s Oktoberfest or festivals, you’ve probably noticed the girls in Dirndl—a beautiful traditional dress with a tight bodice, short-sleeved blouse, a flared skirt, and an apron.
The apron knot isn’t just decoration—it shows relationship status! A left-side knot means single, while a right-side knot means taken.
It’s usually worn for celebrations, but some locals wear it casually too.
If you’re looking for a stylish and cultural souvenir (or want to blend in at Austrian festivals), a Dirndl is a great buy!
Important Buying Tip! Most Dirndls have the bodice and skirt attached, so if you’re only looking for a separate skirt and blouse, you might struggle—just like I did!
A real Dirndl is made of cotton, linen, or silk, and the blouses are usually white, self-embroidered, and short-sleeved.
A basic one starts at €100, while elaborate ones with embroidery and silk can go up to €2000.
Can Tourists Wear a Dirndl?
Absolutely! But if you’re buying one, make sure it’s authentic, not a cheap costume version.
Where to Buy a Dirndl in Austria?
You’ll find Dirndl shops in Vienna, Salzburg, and Innsbruck’s historic centres. The best-known stores include:
4. Swarovski Crystals
Want to bring home something born in Austria? Swarovski crystals are a dazzling choice!
The first Swarovski crystals were made in Wattens, near Innsbruck, in 1910. Since then, these sparkling gems have been worn by celebrities like Marilyn Monroe and Lady Gaga.
But here’s the mystery—no one knows the exact secret behind their shine! Swarovski claims it’s a mix of quartz sand and minerals, but the full process remains a closely guarded secret.
Prices vary depending on what you buy. Stud earrings cost around €30–€40, while small crystal figurines are about €50. If you’re after something extravagant, chandeliers start at €150, with high-end ones costing much more!
Is Swarovski cheaper in Austria
Not really. Prices are about the same across Europe, so don’t expect huge discounts. But if you’re in Austria, visiting the Wattens showroom is worth it—it has the biggest collection and some exclusive designs you won’t find elsewhere.
Where to Buy Swarovski Crystals in Austria?
5. Austrian Cheese
After devouring cheese strude, knew I had to bring some Austrian cheese home! Austria’s famous Bergkase (mountain cheese) and Alpkäse come in endless varieties, with each region having its speciality.
If you’re in Tyrol, Austria’s dairy capital, don’t miss Tiroler Graukase, the most famous cheese in Austria—a strong, crumbly cheese used in my favourite Kasespazle.
But before buying, check if it can last without refrigeration until you reach home!
Prices vary depending on the type. Small blocks cost around €5–€10, while premium aged cheeses go for €15+.
Vacuum-sealed cheeses are best for travel. Hard cheeses like Bergkäse last longer and can go in hand luggage, but soft cheeses need refrigeration, so check before buying.
Where to Buy Austrian Cheese?
6. Coffee beans
Austria is famous for its mountains, architecture… and coffee culture! Nowhere does it better than Vienna, where cafés have perfected the art of coffee over centuries.
If you love a good brew, bringing home Austrian coffee beans is the best way to relive Vienna’s café experience.
Prices vary—small bags (250g) cost around €8–€15, while larger 1kg bags go for €25+. Whole beans and ground coffee are allowed in luggage, and vacuum-sealed packs help maintain freshness.
Where to Buy?
7. Apricot liqueur.
Austria’s Wachau Valley isn’t just famous for its stunning scenery—it’s also home to some of the best apricots in the world!
These “orange gold” apricots are turned into everything from jams to liqueurs, but the real star? Apricot schnapps (Marillen Schnaps)—a fruit brandy that’s smooth, fragrant, and slightly sweet.
If you aren’t a fan of hard liquor like me, Schnapps is still one of those things you can only buy in Austria—a true local speciality. I loved the brand Wieser Wachau and highly recommend it.
Should you bring home a bottle? Absolutely!- like I did! It’s one of the best ways to taste Austria long after your trip.
Prices vary—small bottles (200ml) cost around €10–€15, while standard 500ml bottles range from €25–€40. You can only pack it in checked luggage (liquor over 100ml isn’t allowed in hand luggage).
Where to Buy Apricot Schnapps in Austria?
8. Enamel accessories
Austrians have mastered the art of enamel work, creating accessories that blend vibrant colours with intricate designs.
After visiting the Hofburg Palace in Vienna, I expected traditional patterns—but these accessories turned out to be charmingly modern!
If you love unique, artsy jewellery, Austrian enamel accessories make a great keepsake.
Prices vary—high-end enamel jewellery costs around €300, while regular enamel-acrylic accessories start at €20–€30 for a pair of earrings
Where to shop for Enamel accessories in Austria
9. Baitz dolls.
Not sure if a Dirndl is your thing but still want something traditionally Austrian? Baitz Dolls are the perfect pick! They are made of cloth, felt and the plastic face is hand-painted.
These dolls come dressed in authentic Tracht outfits, making them a fun way to bring a little Austrian charm home.
They might look like kids’ toys, but trust me—they’ll make me smile every time I see them at home.
This Austrian brand makes beautiful dolls dressed in authentic Tracht outfits—perfect for collectors or anyone who loves a touch of Austrian heritage at home.
A pair of dolls of height 6 inch cost approx €40–50. They aren’t heavy, so don’t worry about added weight to your luggage. I got it wrapped and boxed well and could get it home without a damage.
Where to Buy Baitz Dolls?
10. Austrian Chocolates.
After trying a few, my favourite was Berger, a small-batch chocolatier near Salzburg.
Their Whiskey & Espresso flavour was a game-changer—and surprisingly, I also loved the orange ones!
Prices range from €50 to €100 per kg, but worth every bite! Make sure you don’t open any of the chocolate box which you want to carry home- Once you open, they start to melt.
Where to Buy Austrian Berger chocolates?
11. Walnut and Chestnut woodenware.
Austria’s forests are sustainably managed, so you’ll find high-quality woodenware here. These pieces are beautiful, durable, and eco-friendly.
Austrian households mostly use wooden cutting boards for meat, but if you’re a vegetarian like me, grab one for veggies instead! I bought a walnut board, and three years later, it’s still going strong!
Prices per one cutting board starts from €30.
Where to Buy Woodenware in Austria?
12. Gummies and Candies.
Austria is home to some of the world’s most famous candies, including PEZ, which was invented in Vienna! But don’t stop there—Austrian markets are packed with unique gummies and confections.
If you love sweets, you won’t run out of options here! The candies I picked up at Vienna’s Naschmarkt were my best buddies during long train journeys.
Where to Buy Candies in Austria?
13. Fruit Jams
Austrians love their breakfast jams, especially Marillenmarmelade (apricot jam), and they take it very seriously! You’ll also find mango, papaya, and apple varieties in local markets.
The hotel I stayed at in Melk, Wachau Valley, even made a point to mention that their jams were made from organically grown fruits.
That’s how much care goes into them! So if you’re after a delicious souvenir, fruit jam is one of the most useful things to buy in Austria
Where to buy fruit jams in Austria
14. Beer Mugs
I enjoyed Austrian beer gardens, but I loved their beer mugs even more! Surely, the unique beer mugs are one of the cheap things to buy in Austria and they can be used beyond being a showpiece.
The solid grey porcelain mugs from Augustiner Bräustübl in Salzburg were my favourite, but you’ll also find ornate glass mugs everywhere.
grey 1-litre porcelain mug with the beautiful Augustiner Bräustübl logo costs around €12
Where to Buy Beer Mugs in Austria?
15. Hundertwasser Souvenirs – A Burst of Colour
Vienna’s Hundertwasser House is one of the most colourful spots in the city. The art here completely breaks away from traditional Austrian architecture, making its souvenir shop a special experience.
Shopping here feels like walking through a maze in a modern bazaar—even if you’re not buying anything, it’s worth visiting just for the experience!
Prices start at €5 for postcards and small souvenirs, while larger decor items range from €20+.
Where to Buy Hundertwasser-Themed Gifts?
16. Optical wear.
I never expected to recommend eyewear as a souvenir, but Austrian optics are world-renowned for their quality.
While looking for pure Austrian brands, my mom and I wandered through Lindergasse in Salzburg and found an entire street lined with optical shops!
They had super chic, highly stylish eyewear, but what caught my eye was the beautifully designed straps—from enamel to pearls, fabric to chains, Austria knows how to charm up the eye gear.
Later, a shopkeeper told me that Austria exports many medical items, and their eyewear is globally recognised for its quality.
If you want something chic and durable eyewears, Austria surprisingly has great options! But be ready to pay a hefty price!
Some shops even sell enamel straps alone for around €100.
Where to Buy Optical Wear in Austria?
17. Flower seeds!
Austrian balconies burst with colourful flowers, and if you love gardening, bringing home flower seeds is a great idea!
My mother and I picked up some in Kirchberg, and to our surprise, they bloomed beautifully back home in the Western Ghats of India.
So if your city’s climate is similar to Austria’s, these seeds are a fantastic buy!
Where to Buy Flower Seeds in Austria?
18. Other Unique Austrian Souvenirs
Famous Austrian things I didn’t find worth buying
These are just my personal opinions—you might love some of them! But here are a few things that didn’t feel worth bringing home from Austria.
Things to know before you go on a shopping in Austria
Window Shopping is Fine – Shopkeepers don’t mind if you browse before entering. Austrian brands welcome window shoppers and don’t pressure you to buy.
Cash is Preferred – Austria uses euros, like many other Schengen countries, and shopkeepers prefer cash over cards. It’s best to carry both coins and small notes when shopping. Plus, paying in cash helps you avoid credit card skimming fraud.
Can You Haggle? – Not really. Bargaining isn’t common, but you might get a small discount (~20%) if you ask politely. Don’t expect huge price drops.
Shop Etiquette: Greetings & Assistance – Whether it’s a street stall or boutique, saying “Hallo” when you enter and “Tschüss” when you leave is customary. Customers are left to browse without pressure—if you need help, you must ask. Walking out without buying is completely fine.
Clothes shopping in Austria : Avoid buying clothes in Austria unless necessary – it is very expensive. I had to get summer wear after misjudging the weather—an unexpected expense!
Shopping Hours & Availability – In Austria, most shops close early (around 6 PM), and Sundays are a no-go except for weekly markets. Even small stores follow strict closing hours—no exceptions.
Pension Hosts Know the Best Shops – If you love the decor at your guesthouse, ask your host where they shop—they’re happy to share.
Compare Before Buying – Wander around before making a purchase, just like anywhere else.
Food Samples? Tiny! – Austrians are strict about samples. If you ask to try candy, expect one tiny piece with tweezers—no generous free tastings.
What is considered rude while shopping in Austria?
Rushing Shopkeepers – They attend to one customer at a time. If you’re choosing earrings, don’t ask about necklaces mid-selection—they’ll finish one request first before moving on.
Interrupting the Setup – After helping a customer, shopkeepers reset their displays before assisting the next person. Patience is key.
Pretending to Buy – If you’re just observing, be honest. If they’re free, shopkeepers love answering questions, but they don’t like time-wasters.
Is there tax free shopping in Austria?
Yes, but only for non-EU residents!
If you’re from outside the EU, you can get a VAT refund on purchases over €75 from tax-free shops.
Yes, but it’s not as easy as it sounds! Unlike Japan, you won’t get an instant refund at checkout.
You’ll need to ask each shop for a tax refund form, and every store has its own minimum purchase requirement.
While leaving Austria, take all forms to customs for validation at the airport, but beware—these counters don’t operate 24/7, so if they’re closed, you lose your refund!
Best places for shopping in Austria.
Though Vienna gave me a wide range of options, I found it too global and contemporary rather than traditionally Austrian.
On the other hand, Salzburg is where nature meets the city quietly—its historic streets, weekly markets, and farmer’s markets make it a shopper’s paradise. The experience here feels elegant and local, rather than commercial.
I am a small-town addict—they feel cheaper, homely, and more personal. The best places in Austria for shopping, in my opinion, are Melk and Krems in Wachau, as well as Innsbruck (not a small town, but still has a cosy charm).
If you’re visiting during winter, Salzburg’s Christmas market inside the castle courtyard (November–December) is magical. Vienna also has Christmas markets all over the city, making it a great time for festive shopping.
Best neighbourhoods for shopping in Vienna
Best Shopping Areas in Salzburg
Best Shopping Areas in Innsbruck
Best Shopping Areas in Wachau
FAQ
What brand is famous in Austria?
Austria is known for Swarovski (crystals), Julius Meinl (coffee), Wieser Wachau (apricot products), Manner (wafers), J&L Lobmeyr (glassware).and Lodenfrey (traditional clothing).
What is worth buying in Vienna?
Coffee beans, wine, Dirndls, Hundertwasser souvenirs, glassware and artisanal chocolates are great buys in Vienna.
What is the famous Austrian market?
Naschmarkt in Vienna is Austria’s most famous market, offering local produce, spices, street food, and souvenirs. Grünmarkt in Salzburg is a well known flea market. Innsbruck Markthall is also world known for local produce including honey
Is Austria good for shopping?
Yes, but it depends on what you’re looking for! If you want unique Austrian products, you’ll find great options. For high-end fashion, Vienna & Salzbug has luxury stores.
Is Austria cheap for shopping?
No, Austria isn’t cheap for shopping. Prices are generally high, whether for local products or everyday items. While you can find unique Austrian goods, shopping here can’t be compared to bargain-friendly destinations like Middle Eastern bazaars.
What to buy in Austria Supermarket?
Buy local cheese like “Alpkase”, flower seeds and herbs in Austria’s super markets like M-Pries and Hofers (Austria’s Aldi).
Does Austria have Walmart stores?
No. Austria doesn’t have Walmart. They have Spar, Mpreis, Hofers ( another name for Aldi)
What next?
Now that you know what to buy in Austria, it’s time to plan your trip expenses.
If you’ve figured out your budget, start exploring where you want to visit! – It can include some train journeys just to enjoy Alpine beauty enroute.
Did we encourage you to shop or avoid shopping in Austria? Let us know in the comment section below.
Thank you for your insightful article, it’s been very helpful
Hello Roshni . Glad it was helpful. Happy shopping in Austria 🙂