Planning to shop at Retro City in Europe? This comprehensive guide shows you exactly how to maximize your VAT refund savings, where to find Retro City stores across Europe, and insider tips to get the most money back on your purchases.
About Retro City
Retro City is Amsterdam's vintage institution, offering decades of curated second-hand fashion in the heart of the city. Specializing in vintage clothing, accessories, and unique finds from the 1960s-1990s, Retro City embodies Amsterdam's creative, eclectic spirit. The shop is a treasure trove for vintage lovers seeking affordable, unique pieces with Dutch vintage flair.
Signature Products & Prices
Vintage Clothing (1960s-1990s)
€20–€120
Retro Accessories
€10–€70
Vintage Denim & Outerwear
€30–€150
Unique Statement Pieces
€25–€180
Why Shop Retro City in Europe?
Amsterdam vintage shops offer unique European finds with Netherlands' 17.35% VAT refund—the highest in Europe. Retro City's extensive inventory and central location make it essential for serious vintage hunters in Amsterdam.
Best Cities to Shop Retro City
Amsterdam
Only location, Netherlands' highest VAT refund, central Amsterdam
Why Shop Retro City with TravelMoney
Up to 100% VAT Refunds
Get significantly more money back compared to standard 12% refunds
1 Retro City Locations
Across 1 European cities
Instant Refunds
No waiting weeks for your money back
Digital Process
Upload receipts, scan at airport, done
Retro City Store Locations in Europe
Madrid
Retro City Chueca
Calle de los Herradores, 4, 28004 Madrid, Spain
Opening Hours:
monday: 11:00 - 20:30
tuesday: 11:00 - 20:30
wednesday: 11:00 - 20:30
thursday: 11:00 - 20:30
friday: 11:00 - 20:30
saturday: 11:00 - 20:30
sunday: 12:00 - 20:00
How Much Can You Save?
VAT Refund Examples
Purchase: €1,000 → Get back €120-150 (standard refund) or up to €180 (TravelMoney)
Purchase: €5,000 → Get back €600-750 (standard refund) or up to €900 (TravelMoney)
Purchase: €10,000 → Get back €1,200-1,500 (standard refund) or up to €1,800 (TravelMoney)
How to Get Your VAT Refund: Step-by-Step
Step 1: Before making a purchase
Request Custom Invoice
When checking out at Retro City, request the invoice to be made out to "Travel Money" with our Paris address. This is critical for maximizing your refund.
Step 2: When making a purchase
Pay in Local Currency
Always choose to pay in euros (€) instead of your home currency to avoid poor exchange rates and maximize savings.
Step 3: After shopping
Upload Invoice & Receipt
Immediately upload your Retro City invoice and receipt in the TravelMoney app. Don't wait until you get to the airport.
Step 4: When leaving the EU
Scan Barcode at Point of Departure
At the airport, port, or train station, scan the barcode on your TravelMoney app at customs. Bring your Retro City purchase in carry-on for potential inspection.
VAT Refund Essentials
Core Requirements
- Minimum Spend: No minimum in total purchase value
- Eligibility: Non-EU permanent residents, under 6-month stay, purchasing goods for personal use
- Time limits: 3 months to validate at point of departure + 6 months to claim refund
- VAT Rate: 21% standard rate (most luxury goods)
Pro Tips for Retro City Shoppers
- →Netherlands offers 17.35% VAT refund (€50 minimum)—Europe's highest rate
- →Amsterdam central location—easy to combine with other vintage shops
- →Decades of inventory—patient treasure hunting yields amazing finds
- →Ask staff for help navigating the extensive selection
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get VAT refund on Retro City online purchases?
No. VAT refunds are only available for in-store purchases made in Europe. Online orders shipped internationally are already VAT-exempt.
Do I need to show my Retro City purchase at customs?
High-value items (typically over €1,000) may require physical inspection at customs. Keep your purchase in carry-on luggage, not checked bags.
What if I'm connecting through a non-EU airport?
You must validate your VAT refund at your last EU point of departure, not your final destination. For example, if flying Paris → London → New York, validate in Paris.
How long does it take to get my refund?
With TravelMoney, refunds are processed instantly once validated at customs. Standard tax-free services can take 4-12 weeks.
For Shoppers
Get up to 100% VAT refunds on your Retro City shopping. Join the waitlist for instant refunds.
For Merchants
Partner with TravelMoney to offer instant VAT refunds and attract more international shoppers.