Heading to Europe or East Asia: Maximize your Shopping Savings with Pie's Top 10 Tourist Destinations
Traveling internationally offers more than just sightseeing and cultural experiences; it also presents incredible shopping opportunities. If you’re a savvy shopper looking to maximize your savings, understanding VAT (Value Added Tax) refunds is crucial. Pie VAT, a digital platform that simplifies the VAT refund process, is available in several prime shopping destinations across the globe.
What is Tax Free Shopping?
Tax free shopping allows eligible tourists traveling internationally to get a refund on the sales taxes and value-added taxes (VAT) they pay when purchasing goods abroad.
When you shop tax free, you will pay these taxes at the time of purchase. However, you can then claim a refund on those taxes when you leave the country as an exporting tourist. (You are considered an exporting tourist when you purchase goods and take them with you home, therefore becoming eligible for a refund of the VAT that you paid during the purchase.)
This VAT tax refund means you ultimately pay less for your vacation souvenirs and other purchases made while traveling in foreign countries. Depending on the destination’s tax rate, a VAT refund can translate to 10-25% savings off the initial price.
For example, in Europe the standard VAT averages around 20% in most countries. So tax free shopping returns about a fifth of what you first paid. That adds up to major savings, especially on big-ticket items! You can find out more here “What is Tax Free Shopping?”
Here’s a list of the top 10 tourist destinations where Pie VAT can help you save big on your purchases:
Top 10 Locations:
1. Oslo, Norway
Norway is renowned for its stunning natural beauty and high-quality products, from outdoor gear to knitwear. In Oslo, you can enjoy shopping for premium items and claim VAT refunds easily through Pie VAT. Whether you’re picking up a cozy Norwegian sweater or state-of-the-art hiking equipment, Pie VAT ensures you get the best savings on your purchases.
2. Copenhagen, Denmark
Copenhagen is a hub for design lovers, with a plethora of stores offering everything from chic furniture to designer clothing. With Pie VAT, you can enjoy tax-free shopping at many of the city’s best retailers, making it easier to bring home a piece of Danish design at a lower cost.
3. Stockholm, Sweden
Sweden is synonymous with minimalist style and high-quality craftsmanship. In Stockholm, you’ll find everything from cutting-edge fashion to innovative homeware. Use Pie VAT to claim back the VAT on your purchases, and make your Swedish shopping spree even more rewarding.
4. Berlin, Germany
Germany’s capital is a vibrant city known for its eclectic shopping districts, where you can find a mix of high-end boutiques, vintage stores, and everything in between. Pie VAT simplifies the VAT refund process in Berlin, so you can focus on exploring the city’s diverse shopping scene and saving on your purchases.
Rules for Germany. - Rules for Berlin.
5. Tokyo, Japan
Tokyo is a shopping paradise, offering everything from high-tech gadgets to unique fashion items. For international tourists, the ability to claim VAT refunds on purchases can make a significant difference in your budget. Pie VAT operates in Tokyo, ensuring you can maximize your savings while enjoying all the city has to offer.
6. Osaka, Japan
As another major shopping destination in Japan, Osaka offers a unique blend of traditional and modern retail experiences. From luxury brands to quirky local shops, Pie VAT helps you get the most out of your shopping in Osaka by streamlining the VAT refund process.
7. Gothenburg, Sweden
Gothenburg is known for its relaxed atmosphere and excellent shopping opportunities, particularly for those interested in Scandinavian fashion and design. With Pie VAT, you can easily claim VAT refunds on your purchases, ensuring that you get the best possible deal on your Swedish souvenirs.
8. Helsinki, Finland
Helsinki offers a unique shopping experience with its combination of Nordic design, local craftsmanship, and international brands. Pie VAT operates in Helsinki, making it easy for tourists to claim VAT refunds and enjoy substantial savings on their purchases in the Finnish capital.
9. Bergen, Norway
Bergen, with its picturesque landscapes and rich cultural heritage, is also a great place for shopping, especially for locally made crafts and outdoor gear. Pie VAT ensures that tourists in Bergen can take advantage of VAT refunds, making their shopping experience even more enjoyable and affordable.
10. Reykjavik, Iceland
Reykjavik is a unique destination for shoppers looking for something different, from Icelandic wool products to local art and jewellery. Pie VAT helps visitors to Iceland claim VAT refunds effortlessly, allowing them to save money while indulging in the country’s distinctive offerings.
Bonus for the Winter months
Tromsø
Tucked away in the Arctic Circle, Tromsø has blossomed into a shopping mecca, offering visitors a unique blend of Scandinavian design, outdoor adventure gear, and traditional Norwegian craftsmanship. From chic fashion boutiques to specialty artisan workshops, this vibrant city promises a retail experience like no other.
As you stroll along Tromsø's charming streets, you'll be captivated by the enchanting storefronts that line the way. Each shop beckons with a distinct style and flair, inviting you to explore the diverse offerings that have made this city a beloved shopping destination.
Read More on Tromsø - How to spend the perfect 48 hours in Tromsø.
These top 10 tourist destinations are not only known for their cultural and natural attractions but also for their excellent shopping opportunities. By using Pie VAT, you can ensure that your shopping experience in these locations is not only enjoyable but also cost-effective. Whether you’re buying luxury goods in Tokyo or local crafts in Reykjavik, Pie VAT helps you maximize your savings by simplifying the VAT refund process.
