Best Tax Free shopping in Europe for Australian travellers

Tax free shopping in Europe allows non-EU residents — including Australian travellers — to claim a refund on the Value Added Tax (VAT) paid on eligible purchases made during their stay. VAT rates vary by country but typically range between 15% and 25%, making the potential savings significant. 

To claim your refund, you’ll need to shop at stores participating in the VAT refund scheme, request a tax refund form at the point of purchase, and present it (along with your goods and passport) to customs before departing the EU. Refunds can then be processed at the airport or through international providers like Global Blue or Planet.

Not all countries offer the same conditions for VAT refunds. Some are more generous in their refund policies, have lower minimum purchase thresholds, or offer more efficient processing. 

Top tax-free-friendly countries for Australian travellers include: 

• France – High VAT (20%) and great refund infrastructure. 
• Italy – Widely accepted and available across fashion, leather goods, and art. 
• Spain – User-friendly refund process and relatively fast. 
• Germany – Good for electronics and department stores. 
• Austria & Belgium – Competitive VAT and smooth customs services. 

Remember, Switzerland is not in the EU and has its own refund system — and uses the Swiss franc, not the euro. 

Europe’s most popular cities for retail therapy also tend to offer the best tax refund experiences. Whether you're chasing high fashion or unique local finds, these cities stand out: 

Here are some highlights: 

• Paris – The capital of luxury shopping. Look for signs that say “Tax Free” in major boutiques. 
• Milan – A fashion lover’s paradise with streamlined VAT reclaim. 
• Barcelona – Excellent for lifestyle and design products. 
• Berlin – Known for electronics and international retail chains. 
• Vienna – Offers great value on local crafts and luxury goods.

Before setting off, make sure to exchange your AUD to EUR ahead of time to lock in a competitive rate and avoid last-minute airport fees. 

After this and before splurging on souvenirs, it’s essential to plan your purchases and understand the refund process. 

Here are the key steps: 

• Bring your passport with you when shopping.
• Ask for a tax refund form when you make a qualifying purchase. 
• Keep all receipts and documentation together and in good condition. 
• Allow extra time at the airport to get customs validation. 
• Use official refund counters or mail your forms if needed. 

Important: VAT refunds are typically issued in euros — or the local currency — so ensure you have the right cash on hand for smaller purchases. 

Discover which European destination gives you the best value for money and what’s the most affordable country in Europe for Aussie travellers to prepare your travel cash before you fly 

Understanding how the tax refund system works can make a big difference in how much you get back. These practical tips will help you avoid surprises: 

• Shop at fewer stores to consolidate purchases and meet minimum refund thresholds. 
• Avoid buying in bulk across multiple shops, as small totals may not qualify. 
• Watch for admin fees — some refund services deduct a handling fee. 
• Don’t wait until the last minute — refund desks can have long queues at major airports. 
• Exchange your AUD to EUR in advance to avoid poor rates at foreign exchange kiosks abroad. 

Prepare for your trip by reserving your travel money online in advance! Enjoy significant savings with excellent rates and 0% commission on a wide range of currencies, including exotic ones. Trusted by Prosegur with 30+ years of experience.


Still have questions? Here are answers to some common concerns for Aussie travellers. 

Tax free shopping in Europe is a great way to stretch your travel budget — but only if you plan ahead. Know where to shop, keep your paperwork tidy, and ensure you have the right currency for purchases and admin fees. 

Order your foreign currency online with Prosegur Change at 0% commission and collect it at the airport before you fly. Trusted by Australians for over 30 years, we make sure your travel money is ready when you are. 

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