Where are some cheap but good quality places to shop in Florence, Italy?

Question

I'm studying abroad in Florence for the semester and as much as I would love to shop at all the expensive shops, I really can't. The occasional splurge is fine but I need a place where i can just get some key pieces of clothing. If anyone could help- that would be wonderful. Thank!

Answer 1

Maybe you should try to go to the outlet in Barberino di Mugello

Answer 2

Beware of the outlets -- they are cheap if you are used to paying full price for Gucci, Armani, Ferragamo and the like...otherwise you're not going to be finding great bargains. Plus they are not that easy to get to.

Shopping in the city:

A bit hit with the younger crowd is Zara, which you'll find in Piazza della Repubblica. Hip and trendy stuff at affordable prices. (It's been a long time since I've lived in the U.S. but I'd compare it to a Limited at least many years ago). Also popular are Bennetton, Sisley and Stefanel which aren't exactly cheap but you can find nice stuff and the prices aren't outrageous. The two main department stores in downtown Florence Rinascente and Coin have a wide range of prices. Oviesse which is more along the lines of a Kohls or J.C. Penney has very affordable prices for basics.

Another way to shop cheap is to shop at the markets. San Lorenzo especially has a lot of inexpensive clothing options in between the leather goods. Also, there are lots of little boutique shops, some of which are expensive but if you have a keen eye you can find some good buys. Check out Borgo Allegri and Via de'Oriuolo (streets) for some of these kinds of stores.

If you are really looking for bargains, wait for the annual sales. They are in January (starting the 7th) for winter stuff and end of July/August for summer season.

Have fun in Florence!

Answer 3

I would suggest you this outlet, few km from Florence:

- The Mall Viale Europa, 8 - Reggello ( FI ):

Gucci, Valentino, Armani, ....