Shopping

Budapest
Known for its handcrafted fabrics and appliqués, Hungary has many original souvenirs for travelers to purchase. Be sure to look for hand-woven laces, embroidered linens and hand-sewn clothing and accessories. At one time, these crafts were bargains, but now you can expect inflated prices in Budapest for anything handmade.

Shopping districts in Budapest are conveniently laid out and can be easily navigated. Váci Utca has smaller, local shops, while Nagy Körút is a larger street with more spacious stores. Both roads offer travelers an array of choices in brands and clothing.

Vienna
Vienna’s longest street, Mariahilfer Strasse, is also the chic shopping destination. There are many designer fashions, accessories and jewelry stores, as well as Eurocenter and Gerngross department stores. For the finest jewelry boutiques head to Karntner, Graben and Kohlmarkt streets. The pedestrian malls Karntner Strasse and Graben Strasse present delightful meandering along beautiful cobblestone lanes and side streets.

Prague
The areas of Wenceslas Square and Republic Square have both international department stores and community shops. The Old Town Square and Mala Strana offer gift shops, art galleries and clothing boutiques set in the heart of ancient Prague. The markets located in the Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square contain more than 100 vendors selling traditional Czech crafts and goods. Items to expect at the markets are candles, dolls, jewelry and prized hand-painted eggs. March–April include the Easter Markets.