Even if you are not attracted by the great historical and cultural heritage of Italy, you should visit this amazing country for at least an incredible shopping. Seasonal sales of world famous fashion brands, huge outlets with constant discounts, the highest quality of goods and excellent level of service will make of you real shopaholics. About where in Italy the best shopping and how to save money on purchases in this country, and will go further.
Rousseau Tourist: Shopping Tour in Italy
Let's start with the cult for the buyers of the whole world of Italian cities. In the first place is the recognized capital of fashion - Milan. This is a real paradise for shopaholics: there are boutiques of famous fashion houses and a huge selection of brand clothes. In addition to fashionable expensive shops, in Milan there are also outlets, sales in which will please budget tourists. But the main advantage of shopping in Milan is the lower price in comparison with other cities in Italy for products of local producers.
If you are trying to combine beach holidays with shopping, then go to Rimini. This is one of the most popular and beautiful sea resorts in Italy, which is famous for its huge outlets. But fans of a more relaxed shopping will like Florence, the beauty of which is so pleasant to enjoy during a shopping trip.
Shopping in Italy: boutiques or outlet?
Now go to the review of stores. They can be divided into several types: boutiques (expensive luxury clothing stores and accessories), outlet (shopping centers with numerous shops), drains (discounted and unfashionable goods), department stores (mass-markets), small shops. The first two are the most interesting for tourists. The boutiques present the latest fashion novelties from the leading clerks, and in the outlets - past collections at very good discounts. Therefore, if you do not pursue fashion and appreciate good quality clothing, then study Italian outlets well.
Quanto costa: prices and discounts in Italian stores
In Italy, the two main selling season, when there are good discounts for any goods - winter and summer. The first one is connected with Christmas holidays and lasts from January 7 to March 1. The summer season of discounts falls for the period from July 10 to August 31. Please note that at the beginning of the season, discounts are minimal for operating collections - 15-20%, and by the end of the season they can reach 70%. That's just all the most popular sizes and models by that time, most likely, will already be sold out.
On a note! Discounts in outlets are open all year round and often reach a record 70%.
Shopping in Italy: savings should be economical
And finally a couple of tips for those who do not mind saving even on sales. First, bargain. Always ask the seller if there is an additional discount for the product. For example, in many stores you will be happy to drop a couple of percent if you pay in cash, not a card. Secondly, use a tax-free system - a refund system that is VAT. It is valid for all non-EU residents who have made purchases in Europe for at least 155 euros. The refund amount is 12%, which is quite agreeable. You can return the money if you have a check in the special ticket offices located at airports and even some banks in Russia.