Italy is renowned for its exceptional shopping, especially when it comes to designer goods. But what should you do if you can’t afford, or simply prefer not to pay, full retail prices?
For the best shopping experience in Italy, plan your visit during January and July. These months mark the twice-yearly saldi (sales) at department stores, boutiques, and various shops. During these sales, many retailers offer discounts of up to 50% at the beginning of the event to clear out old stock for new arrivals. The sales generally last about a month, with discounts becoming increasingly attractive as time progresses. However, keep in mind that the most sought-after items tend to sell out quickly.
If you’re looking for deals throughout the year, consider exploring Italy’s designer outlets and factory stores. Major cities in Italy typically have designer outlet malls located just outside their centers. These outlets offer year-round discounts on the latest fashions, in addition to the sales during the January and July events. By planning your visit strategically, you could score significant savings on clothing and accessories from well-known Italian and international designers.
Below is a regularly updated list of factory stores and outlet malls across Italy. Most of these locations provide shuttle bus services, making it easier to incorporate a shopping trip into your Italian adventure. Many outlets also offer private transport and group booking options for a more personalized experience.
Outlets Near Florence and Bologna
Barberino Outlet, managed by the McArthur Glen Group, features a wide selection of both Italian and international brands. A shuttle service is available from the Santa Maria Novella train station in Florence.
The Mall Luxury Outlets offers a unique luxury shopping experience. Here, you can find substantial discounts on renowned labels like Alexander McQueen, Balenciaga, and Bottega Veneta. Keep in mind that reservations are required for The Mall’s shuttle service, which can pick you up at your hotel in Florence—don’t hesitate to ask your concierge for assistance.
Space, located in Montevarchi near Arezzo (Tuscany), specializes in selling last season’s clothing, shoes, and accessories from prestigious brands like Prada and Miu Miu.
Spaccio Della Valle serves as the factory outlet for Tod’s and Hogan, both made in Ascoli Piceno, Le Marche.
Outlets Near Rome
Castel Romano, another property in the McArthur Glen portfolio, features deep discounts across 150 stores. Located in the Castelli Romani area, south of Rome, Castel Romano is accessible by shuttle from Termini Station and EUR Fermi, among other transport options. The mall’s website provides an easy booking solution for a combined train and shuttle ticket.
Valmontone Outlet, also located south of Rome, has become a favorite among local shoppers and visitors alike. Situated about halfway between Rome and Naples on the A-1, this outlet features 180 stores and a shuttle service that operates exclusively from Rome.
Outlet Shopping Near Venice
Noventa di Piave is the largest designer outlet mall in proximity to Venice. Housing 150 stores, you’ll find iconic brands like Prada, Dolce & Gabbana, Fendi, and Gucci, as well as 10 restaurants for your dining pleasure during a shopping spree.
Located roughly 30 minutes from Venice, Noventa di Piave Designer Outlet offers shuttle bus services from various locations in the Venice area, such as Venice Mestre train station and the airport, as well as public transportation options.
Outlets Near Naples
In addition to the Valmontone Outlet previously mentioned, another outlet near Naples is worth considering.
La Reggia Designer Outlet is roughly 30 minutes from downtown Naples. Shuttle buses from four different city locations are available, including the main train station (Napoli Centrale). Additionally, there is a shuttle stop in Caserta, perfect for those visiting the Reggia di Caserta.
Outlets in and Near Milan and Turin
McArthur Glen Serravalle is the first and largest outlet mall accessible from Milan, the fashion capital of Italy. Serravalle Outlet boasts over 300 designer brands, where you can find discounts on the latest seasonal styles.
Franciacorta Outlet Village, often referred to as the Land of Fashion, is a beautifully designed shopping destination featuring discounts of up to 70%. Recently expanded by 5,000 square meters, the outlet village now includes 30 new stores, a children’s play area, and a regional tourism info center.
Situated near the scenic wine region of Franciacorta, this mall offers daily shuttle services from Largo Cairoli in Milan with a return trip at 6:30 PM. Additionally, there’s a shuttle that departs at 2 PM for a local wine tour, allowing you to blend shopping with a taste of local history and culture.
Vicolungo The Style Outlets features 150 stores within a pavilion located about 30 minutes outside of Milan in the Novara province.
Outlet Shopping in Italian-Speaking Switzerland
Cross the border to enjoy tax-free shopping deals in Switzerland.
FoxTown Factory Stores is an outlet center situated in a post-modern building just 15 km across the Swiss-Italian border. Here, you will find over 140 top Italian and international brands.
You can reach FoxTown via train, which offers discounts to participating stores through its Green Pass initiative. The train station is conveniently located just a two-minute walk from the outlet, with timely departures taking about 1.5 hours from Milano Centrale (including at least one stop) or around 30 minutes from Varese.
FoxTown Factory Stores is about 50 km from Milan, easily reachable by car on the Milano-Lugano highway. Round-trip shopping tours from Milan are also available through Zani Viaggi.
Note: If you plan to visit Switzerland, ensure to acquire your Swiss visa in advance. For information on whether you need a visa for Switzerland (European and U.S. citizens typically do not), refer to this resource on Schengen visas.
Outlet Shopping in Sicily
Sicilia Outlet Village, conveniently located near Enna, boasts more than 140 stores offering brand-name clothing, accessories, and more at discounts exceeding 70% off retail prices.
This outlet is closer to Catania and Taormina than Palermo, but daily shuttle buses are available from these locations and others.
Top Shopping Tours in Italy
If you’d rather not organize your own visit or transportation to an outlet mall in Italy, consider joining a shopping tour. Several popular shopping tours are available while you’re in Italy:
Italy Shopping Resources
For an updated list of shopping destinations, along with detailed descriptions of outlets and boutiques, check out Suzy Gershman’s “Born to Shop Italy.”
Many websites offer insightful information about outlet shopping in Italy, from review sites to specialized blogs. A valuable resource is Factory Outlet Shopping Italy, which allows you to search by region or brand.
Happy shopping!
Last updated on September 18th, 2024
Post first published on May 21, 2024
