Shopping in Italy has always been a tempting pastime for tourists and locals, with Florence being one of the most alluring destinations. For Gucci, Prada and other prestigious fashion brands’ hunters who cannot afford shopping for latest designs in the new collections, driving 30 to 90 minutes away from the city for discounted voguish garments could be the ultimate solution. Outlets on the outskirts of Florence and all around Tuscany are long acknowledged for their versatility of affordable upmarket goods and haute couture brands.
Details on location, brands and overall information on most of the trendy destinations can be found below:
Factory Outlet Shopping Malls
PRADA –also known as Space Outlet, it is located within 60 minutes car drive south of Florence at Strada Statale 69, Levanella Spacceo Montevarchi. Though finding the place might be challenging for first-time visitors, the trip is definitely worth it: being one of the most popular factory outlets, it is a perfect destination for Prada fans. Last years’ collections of clothing, shoes and accessories include items by various store lines such as Miu Miu, Jill Sander, Church. Prices may drop up to 75% during sales and special promotion times.
THE MALL – with 30 minutes’ drive from Florence by car through A1 freeway (Via Europa 8, Leccio – Reggello), thus far, this place has been one of the most famous and visited Factory outlets. Multiple stores include Italian top-selling brands such as Gucci, Dior, Amrani, Valentino, as well as international ones like Burberry, Yves Saint Laurent, Alexander McQueen and more. Discounts vary from 30% and up depending on the season and the item on sale.
DOLCE E GABBANA – situated in close proximity to the Mall outlet on Via S.Maria Maddalena, 49 Incisa in Val d’Arno, the two-story building contains earlier collections and sales remains of the brand footwear, clothes and lingerie. Special promotions of items previously sold in boutiques and designer stores are available as well.
Outlet Villages and Designer Malls
BARBERINO – the relatively new designer outlet can be reached within 40 minute car drive off the A1 highway heading up north Florence, in the “Sieve” Valley. With over 100 boutiques, the open-air shopping center planning was influenced by the Renaissance architecture, its layout being a combination of fashion and historic culture. A wide array of branded goods can be found, including Calvin Klein, Prada, Lacoste, Polo Ralph Laurent, Coccinelle and many more.
VALDICHIANA – for those pursuing an extensive shopping experience, the Valdichiana outlet village, which is an hour’s car drive from Florence, should be the right place to go. A spacious complex with paved walkways, children’s playgrounds and over 130 stores combine a wide assortment of high fashion brands of domestic and international origin. Discounts on numerous goods labelled Baldanini, Gaudi, Timberland, Guess, Swatch etc. are valid all year round.
Premium Brands’ Outlets
FENDI The luxurious outlet is dedicated entirely to Fendi product lines from eyewear to shoes, posh bags and clothing. Bargain prices on last years’ collections are reduced by 30% and some items are being sold at 60% discounts in the sales season.
ROBERTO CAVALLI The outlet is featuring authentic fashion items by the world leading from previous collections. Glamorous outfit, small accessories and other wearables are available at astounding prices saving up to 75% of the original cost. Located north-east of Florence on Via Volturno 3, close to the IKEA building, it takes only 20 minutes of car driving from Florence.
***
The winter and the summer sales seasons occur twice a year – from mid-January till mid-March and from mid-July till mid-September, respectively. It is recommended to arrive at the opening hours to avoid the hassle of waiting in lines. Besides driving by car, there are always options for ordering shuttles, booking guided tours or using a combination of taxi and public transportation.
Shopping tour from Florence.
Our company would be delighted to organise a shopping outlet tour from Florence for you party. We can pick you from your hotel in Florence brand new air-conditioned mini van. The fashion tours are fully customisable according your schedule and requirements.