Authentic Austrian Souvenirs: Top 10 to Buy in Austria

It’s not a vacation without some souvenir shopping! While it’s easy to pick up common knick-knacks from the typical tourist shops, consider investing in authentic Austrian souvenirs that truly embody the local culture. Although these treasures may be slightly pricier, they offer higher quality and contribute to cultural preservation. Explore my top 10 picks for authentic Austrian souvenirs that you must buy during your Austrian adventure.

Austrian Dirndl Dress

This traditional Austrian maid outfit underwent a reinvention, blending modern fashion with tradition. Since 1949, one Austrian factory has exclusively produced all dirndls sold in Austria. Today, people wear dirndls for various occasions, including festivals and weddings.

Snow Globes

Did you know that Austria is the birthplace of the snow globe? Since 1900, Prezy, an Austrian company, has been manufacturing snow globes. The classic snow globe typically features a Viennese winter scene or landmark. Instead of buying a snow globe at a standard tourist shop, I recommend visiting the Snow Globe Museum for your purchase.

Porcelain

Austrian porcelain, with a history dating back to 1718, is renowned for its quality. Explore factories like Gmunder Keramik and Augarten or visit the porcelain museum to witness the artistry behind these exquisite pieces. Porcelain items include fine dinnerware, decorative figurines, and intricate vases.

Enzian Schnapps

Made from the gentian flower found in the Austrian Alps, this unique spirit is worth seeking out in local shops. Enjoy its distinct herbal flavor and consider purchasing a beautifully designed bottle as a souvenir.

Zotter Chocolates

Indulge in a blend of cheese and dark chocolate, a specialty from Styria. Zotter Chocolates offer a wide array of flavors, from classic to unconventional. Visit their factory for a unique tasting experience or find them in local stores.

Swarovski

Since 1895, Swarovski has produced exquisite gems in Austria. Explore their extensive range of products, including jewelry, home decor, and chandeliers. You can also visit the Swarovski Crystal Worlds in Wattens for an immersive experience.

FreyWille

For enamel jewelry enthusiasts, FreyWille offers abstract, colorful designs in each piece, crafted in Austria since 1951. These elegant pieces are known for their artistic flair and are a reflection of Austrian creativity.

Mozart Balls

These ball-shaped dark chocolates filled with pistachio, marzipan, and nougat are adorned with a picture of Mozart on the packaging. Consider visiting Café-Konditorei Fürst in Salzburg, where these delectable treats were first created in 1890.

Sacher Torte

Vienna’s famous creme cake features chocolate cake layers, apricot preserves, and chocolate glaze. Purchase a TSA fly-approved handmade cake for a delightful gift at Café Sacher or at their official shops.

Manner Wafers

A delectable Austrian sweet available in most supermarkets, Manner wafers have been a local favorite for over 30 years. These crispy wafers with hazelnut cocoa cream are individually wrapped and make a TSA-friendly treat to bring back home.

Invest in these authentic Austrian souvenirs to make your trip memorable and meaningful. Support local culture and take home a piece of Austria with you. Planning a visit to Austria? Visit my Top 5 Places to Visit in Austria.