Shopping in Salzburg is an experience in itself, blending historic traditional shops with elegant boutiques inside a historic architectural setting.

The main destination is Getreidegasse, in the heart of the Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1996, famous for its ornate wrought-iron guild signs hanging above shopfronts — remnants of a medieval system that helped illiterate customers identify each shop by a visual symbol rather than a written name. Today the street mixes international clothing brands with traditional Austrian shops specializing in local products.

Top things worth buying include Mozartkugel chocolate balls filled with almond marzipan, the most famous souvenir from Salzburg since its invention in 1890. Also look for traditional Loden wool coats, known for their durability and resistance to alpine weather, plus heritage clothing like Dirndl dresses and leather Lederhosen sold in specialty shops throughout the Old Town. The famous Austrian crystal brand Swarovski also has a strong presence in the city's shops.

Beyond Getreidegasse, Linzergasse across the river is worth a parallel visit, offering a calmer atmosphere and prices closer to local rates compared to the tourist crush on the opposite bank. In winter, the city's squares transform into traditional Christmas markets, where you can buy handicrafts, wooden ornaments, and handmade candles.

Regarding tax refunds: Austria levies a standard VAT of 20% on most goods (10-13% on certain categories like food), and non-EU residents over 18 are entitled to reclaim a portion of it when leaving the EU, provided purchases from a single store exceed €75.01. After service fees, the actual net refund comes to roughly 15% of the original purchase value. Ask the retailer for a tax refund form at checkout, keep the original receipts, and get them stamped at the customs desk at your final EU departure airport.

Practical note: most shops are closed on Sundays, except a few inside the main train station and heavily touristed areas, so plan your shopping for weekdays or Saturday mornings.