Shopping
Sweden has set the pace for modern design the world over. High-quality cutlery, china, sports equipment, textiles, handicrafts, furs, crystal, jewelry, silver, fine glassware, pottery, furniture, quality cars and mobile phones.
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Traditional Sami Jewellery and contemporary glass by Orrefors. |
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Photo: Orrefors & Annika Vannerus/Johnér |
Bargain hunting – look for the special signs indicating sales. “REA” indicates a sale; “Extrapris”, used along with red price labels, indicates discounts of at least 10%; and “Fynd” indicates special offers.
Best buys: High-quality glass and crystal are widely available throughout Sweden. For bargains in low-cost “seconds” visit the major glassworks shops, such as Orrefors, Kosta Boda, etc. located in Småland. For ceramics, Nya Höganäs-Keramik, at Höganäs in southern Sweden, offers bargains at up to 40% below normal retail levels.
Everywhere in Sweden, even in small villages, you’ll find “hemslöjd” (handicrafts) shops where you can buy traditional handicrafts like knitwear, needlework and woodcarvings.
Many traditional markets and country fairs are held in Sweden throughout the year. Some are big events attracting thousands of visitors. Inquire at local tourist offices about markets in the area you are visiting.
In Sweden, value-added tax (VAT) is always included in the purchase price. Non EU-residents can get a refund of the VAT when you leave the EU via Global Refund Sweden.