Shopping (Overview)
Vienna offers some of the nation's best shopping values and generally has the greatest variety and the highest quality. Pedestrian malls are lined with benches, trees, and lights. These include Kärntner Str., Graben, Stephansplatz, Kohlmarkt, Schönlaterngasse, and Naglergasse. They are a delight for idle browsing. The busy Mariahilfer Street tends to draw more local customers than tourists—the merchandise there tends to be less stylish.Shopping hours in Vienna are weekdays from between 8 and 9 AM to 6 or 6:30 PM (some shops stay open till 8 PM on Thursdays), and Saturdays until noon or 1 PM (or until 5 PM every first Saturday of each month). In other cities shops open at similar times though closing hours are variable.
If you spend a total of at least AS1,000 (close to US$100) in any one shop, then you are eligible for a fat VAT rebate. Right now this tax is two tiered, at 10 and 20 percent. These taxes are always added to the net amount of the merchandise, so the price tag will show the gross amount, which includes the VAT. This might be confusing to shoppers because, in reality, what you get back is actually 16.66 percent (on the 20 percent). Sales personnel will explain how to use Refund Form U-34, which requires a customs stamp. There are airport facilities that will grant you your money immediately, but in this case an additional small service charge will be deducted. You may also mail the documents back in the self-addressed envelopes you are provided with; stores will usually process them within six weeks.