Do you dream of wearing beautiful Italian clothes, jewelery and accessories? Then Florence shopping is definitely for you!
For, Florence comes second-only to Milan in the Italian high-fashion stakes, and the dedicated follower of designer label clothes and leather goods will drool at the mouth on seeing the abundance of such well-known names as Gucci, Ferragamo, and Versace . Not to mention the superb craftsmanship of fine jewelery, art, and antiques.
Maybe your pocket is not very deep? Never mind! You'll be able to bag some wonderful bargains at Florence's colorful market stalls.
Where To Start?
You'll want to start by getting to know what's on offer in the city itself.
Popular with tourists and bargain-hunters is the daily, open-air market of San Lorenzo. Or, check out the New Market, located under the Loggia del Porcellino, or the flea market, which is held near the Piazza Santa Croce on the last Sunday of each month.
Who, visiting Florence, has not heard of the Ponte Vecchio – charming medieval bridge which spans the River Arno. Throughout the ages, it's always been packed with merchants. Nowadays, its shops are brimming with delightful jewelery, gold, art, and souvenirs. Perfect for buying gifts for loved ones, the only problem is that you may not wish to part with the goods once you've bought them.
If you wish to browse designer label shops within Florence, make your way to the Via de 'Tornabuoni, where you'll discover the likes of Gucci, Versace and Ferragamo. Maybe you're after Valentino, Armani or Pucci? Then just pop along to the Via della igna Nuova.
The Mall
Feel you can not afford designer prices? You could well be mistaken! For, just outside the city – about 30 minutes from Florence – nestling in the beautiful Tuscan hills, is a wonderful, exclusive outlet center called The Mall. What's more, there are even coach trips that will take you there!
At The Mall, you'll come across all the top Italian brands at fantastically-reduced prices – often with up to 60% off!
Gucci, Valentino, Armani, Sergio Rossi, Ferragamo, Bottega Veneta … Whether you seek stylish clothes, bags, shoes, sunglasses or jewelery, you'll find a wonderful selection here, and at unbeatable prices. Just remember to allow yourself plenty of time for queuing up to pay for them!
Well, it's good-bye from me … for I'm off on a trip to The Mall, to spend my hard-earned money on designer bargains, in true Florence shopping style!