Milan is well known the world over for its link to finance and design, but fashion is perhaps its most prestigious draw. Fashion influences everything in the city and just walking down one of the main streets in Milan is like being on one of the famous catwalks that are staged in the city twice a year.
Good news for those who love to shop but haven’t got the mega bucks to spend on big names and brands is that there are a huge number of outlet shops and second hand stores in the city. Fashion, by its very nature, changes from season to season and as Milan is a leading player, what is cast off into the outlets after being paraded on the catwalks remains very up to date in other cities for seasons to come.
One thing about Milan is that quality and choice are excellent, whether you buy in the famous big name stores or in the second hand shops.
Designer Bargain Haunts in Milan
You just have to know where to look when it comes to grabbing a designer bargain in Milan. There are so many shops selling second hand, end of season returns, cast-offs from the catwalks and lots of other vintage items. The markets of the city are the best places to start when searching for a bargain and you can often find Gucci and other big names hiding amongst the collections.
Despite the Prada flagship shop being the obvious choice for tourists, for the real deals you should go local and check out the outlet stores in the city. You may need to hunt for your bargain and perhaps even elbow your way through the racks, but it is worth it.
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Many outlet stores are packed full of overstock from boutiques, items from shops that have closed as well as end of season clothes. The outlets around Vittorio Emanuele II are seriously into selling their wares and encourage people so much so that there are often queues outside the shops full of people waiting to see the tempting and tantalising offers. It is a good idea to get hold of a copy of Scoprioccasioni, which is the outlet shopper’s best friend. Full of all the tips, it is a necessary accessory for grabbing the best bargains.
Try Il Slavagente, Dmagazine Outlet and Basement for some real steals.
How to Get to Milan
Milan is a very accessible city and you can arrive by train, bus or plane. Milan is well connected with most major Italian cities by rail and the airport is well served by flights from all of the big European hubs, including London, Paris and Berlin. Milan transfer services from Milan Malpensa, the main airport, into the city have to cover only 51km and all of the three main stations are within a 6km distance from the city centre.
If you are looking for quick, reliable and professional transfers into Milan, transfer services can be booked online with us easily and safely. Book in advance and we will meet you at the airport and whisk you right to your hotel in Milan. With organised and experienced drivers, comfortable vehicles and an advance system in place, you are guaranteed a stress-free transfer into the city.
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Where to Stay
Idea Hotel Milano Bicocca – If you are looking for a budget accommodation option in Milan, Idea Hotel Milano Bicocca is our suggestion for you. Located in a quiet area of the city, this hotel offers air-conditioning, free Wi-Fi throughout and TVs in every room. Breakfast is served as a buffet style and you can choose from delicious sweet or savoury delights.
Atahotel Contessa Jolanda – This is our middle of the range option in Milan. If you don’t mind spending a little more on your accommodation, Atahotel Contessa Jolanda is ideal. Centrally located in an excellent location for public transport links, the hotel has access to an indoor fitness centre and a high-rise breakfast room.
Starhotels Rosa Grand – Right in the bustling centre of Milan, Starhotels Rosa Grand is modern and elegant with a wellness centre that houses a fitness suite, relaxation area and solarium, and there are three restaurants at the hotel. Rooms are beautifully furnished, offer free-Wi-Fi and complimentary beauty products. Flat screen TV comes as standard and every room has a minibar too. Close to all of the main attractions and the shops, this hotel is our choice of luxury accommodation in Milan.
