Food and Shopping in Austria
Austrian culture is deeply intertwined with its culinary and retail traditions, resulting in a refined experience that blends imperial elegance with Alpine heartiness. The country is famous for its Kaffeehauskultur (coffee house culture), where historic cafes serve as extensions of the living room, used as a place for conversation, reading, and enjoying classic pastries. Dining often centers on regional specialties, with a strong emphasis on quality ingredients and meticulous preparation.
Each region contributes its own flavor to the national palate. In Vienna, the focus is on imperial classics like Wiener Schnitzel (traditionally veal, perfectly pounded and fried) and Tafelspitz (boiled beef served with root vegetables and apple-horseradish). The city is also the home of the Sachertorte, a dense chocolate cake with apricot jam. In the Alpine regions, the cuisine is heartier, featuring dishes like Tiroler Gröstl (a pan-fried mix of potatoes, meat, and onion) and various dumplings (Knödel). The wine regions, particularly the Wachau Valley, are celebrated for their crisp white wines, notably Grüner Veltliner and Riesling, which are best enjoyed at a local Heuriger (traditional wine tavern).
Austria’s shopping scene includes luxury boutiques, artisanal workshops, and specialty stores. Vienna’s Kärntner Straße and Graben feature international brands alongside exclusive ateliers producing porcelain, crystal, and handmade chocolates. Salzburg’s Getreidegasse blends designer shops with centuries-old craft traditions. Curated selections of fashion, gourmet foods, and artisanal products across Austrian cities create a distinctive shopping experience. Shops close on Sundays, cash remains widely accepted, and reusable bags are standard.
Finest Journeys integrates Austria’s culinary and retail traditions into each journey with care and local insight. Carefully planned itineraries allow time to appreciate local producers, established crafts, and respected culinary traditions. Experienced guidance ensures that dining and shopping are naturally integrated into the journey, adding context and understanding to experiences that already form part of everyday Austrian life.
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Opening Hours in Austria
In Austria, most shops open from Monday to Friday, typically between 9:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m., with some larger department stores staying open until 8:00 p.m. Saturday hours are generally shorter, often closing by 5:00 p.m. Sunday closures are strictly enforced, with only shops in major train stations, airports, and tourist areas remaining open. Museums and attractions often close one day per week, usually Monday, so checking schedules in advance is recommended.
Dining Hours in Austria
Dining in Austria follows a traditional European schedule. Lunch is typically served between 12:00 p.m. and 2:00 p.m., and dinner service usually begins around 6:00 p.m. and can run until 9:00 p.m. or 10:00 p.m. in major cities. Many restaurants close for a short period in the late afternoon. Reservations are highly recommended for fine dining establishments and popular local spots, especially on weekends or during festival seasons.
Paying in Austria
The Euro is the official currency. While most hotels, high-end restaurants, and major retailers accept credit and debit cards, cash remains a preferred method of payment for smaller transactions, particularly in traditional coffee houses, local bakeries, and rural inns. ATMs are widely available. Tipping is customary and should be done by rounding up the bill or adding 5 to 10 percent, handed directly to the server.
Tax-Free Shopping in Austria
Visitors residing outside the European Union are eligible to claim a VAT refund on eligible purchases. Look for shops displaying the “Tax Free Shopping” logo and request the necessary form at the time of purchase. To process the refund, you must present your passport, the completed form, and the purchased goods to customs officials at your final point of departure from the EU. Refunds are typically handled by services like Global Blue.
What to Buy in Austria
While exploring Austria’s cities, villages, and Alpine regions, you’ll find products that combine centuries of tradition with exceptional craftsmanship and timeless style. In Vienna, Swarovski flagship stores display exclusive crystal pieces, while Lobmeyr glass and Riedel wine glasses reflect generations of Viennese expertise. Augarten porcelain, along with smaller hand-painted figurines, makes elegant keepsakes, perfect for your collection or as thoughtful gifts.
For fashion and artisan goods, you can choose high-quality Dirndls and Lederhosen, or select Loden jackets, felt hats, and finely crafted leather accessories that blend Alpine tradition with modern style. Handmade jewelry inspired by Art Nouveau or Alpine motifs adds a distinctive and sophisticated touch to any wardrobe.
Austrian sweets and food are equally enticing. Salzburg’s Mozartkugeln, Manner wafers, and handcrafted marzipan showcase iconic flavors, while Styrian pumpkin seed oil, Alpine cheeses, and locally produced honey highlight regional specialties. Boutique wines, including Grüner Veltliner and Riesling from the Wachau Valley, provide a true taste of the country’s vineyards, and signature Viennese coffee blends allow you to bring the historic café experience home.
Take home a little piece of Austria, with some of its sweets, wines, and artisan crafts.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time do shops usually open in Austria?
Most shops open Monday–Friday, 9:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m., with shorter hours on Saturday. Most close on Sundays except in airports, train stations, and tourist areas.
Can I use credit cards everywhere in Austria?
Cards work in hotels, larger restaurants, and major shops, but cash is preferred in coffee houses, bakeries, and rural inns. Tipping is usually 5–10%.
What are some typical things to buy in Austria?
Luxury crystal, porcelain, and glass; Dirndls, Lederhosen, and Loden jackets; Mozartkugeln, Manner wafers, Alpine cheeses, pumpkin seed oil, and boutique wines.
What traditional Austrian dishes should I try?
Wiener Schnitzel, Tafelspitz, Tiroler Gröstl, Käsespätzle, Brettljause, and Kaiserschmarrn.
Which Austrian desserts and drinks are iconic?
Sachertorte, Apfelstrudel, Mozartkugeln, Salzburger Nockerl; Grüner Veltliner and Riesling wines, local beers, herbal liqueurs, and Viennese coffee.
Can I claim tax-free shopping in Austria?
Yes, non-EU residents can reclaim VAT at “Tax Free Shopping” stores by showing your passport, form, and purchases to customs when leaving the EU.
Our local expert in Austria
How Finest Journeys Enhances Your Food and Shopping Experience in Austria
Finest Journeys enhances your experience with private local guides, curated access to artisanal shops, and reservations at renowned cafés and restaurants. Our local experts know regional specialties, historic culinary traditions, and the best sources for luxury crystal, porcelain, and Austrian delicacies. Carefully planned itineraries provide time to explore markets, boutiques, and Heuriger wine taverns, ensuring your journey is a blend of discovery with comfort. Every meal, tasting, and purchase is presented in context, allowing you to appreciate Austria’s craftsmanship, flavors, and culinary traditions.