Do you love traveling and shopping? Why not combine the two and go on a shopping spree… abroad? If you’re unsure where to head, take a look at our list of favorite places for shopaholics:
1. Paris, France
Obviously! Paris—the city of romance, fashion, and elegance. No wonder it so quickly comes to mind when we think of the best cities for shopping. France is also home to many prestigious brands, such as Dior, Louis Vuitton, Chanel, and others. For some luxury shopping fans, visiting these stores right in Paris, their “natural habitat,” even if the assortment is the same as everywhere else, is like a point of honor.
As a point of interest for many fashion enthusiasts, Paris offers plenty of shopping opportunities. If you want to spend some money, try the Golden Triangle, which is located between Avenue des Champs-Élysées, Avenue Montaigne, and Avenue George V.
Avenue Montaigne is particularly known for its luxury brands. Here, you’ll find Chanel, Louis Vuitton, Ralph Lauren, and Balenciaga, with Gucci nearby. In the Golden Triangle, you’ll also find cheaper fashion stores and, of course, many restaurants and cafés to relax in after your shopping spree.
2. Seoul, South Korea
There’s no denying that South Korean culture has had a huge impact on the Western world, with its K-dramas, fashion, and, of course, K-pop. People from all over the world are racing to South Korea to experience this unique culture firsthand and to shop while they’re there.
The first point of interest for any shopper in Seoul will likely be Myeong-dong. This district, located in the center of Seoul, is well known to Koreans for its stores, restaurants, and cafés. Brands such as Rolex and Louis Vuitton have their stores here. But Myeong-dong is not just ideal for luxury shopping. There are also plenty of smaller stores and street vendors selling everything you could ever want. Night vendors sell delicacies, and restaurants serve all kinds of food, both Korean and from other parts of the world.
Thanks to Korea’s excellent and reliable transportation system, getting to Myeong-dong from other parts of Seoul is easy. The district is full of bus stops and metro stations, and you won’t have any problems getting around as a tourist.
3. Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Dubai is synonymous with extravagance, splendor, and luxury. It’s a city of the most breathtaking hotels and shopping malls and a dream destination for many. There’s no denying that Dubai is an expensive place, but prestige costs money, and in Dubai, prestige is at almost every turn. This is also evident in the malls and shopping districts.
Shopping enthusiasts in Dubai should definitely visit the Mall of the Emirates, which provides a truly luxurious shopping experience. Visitors praise not only the stores but also the experience provided to them—extravagant interiors, professional staff, and surfaces so clean that you can see yourself in them. In other words, any tourist will feel like a king or queen in this mall.
Mall of the Emirates houses many luxury brands, such as Dior and Chanel. Still, it also offers the typical mall experiences, such as grocery stores and plenty of restaurants and cafes. There’s also an aquarium and even an artificial ski slope (yes, a ski slope in a desert!). For tourists seeking a touch of luxury, there are also the Sheraton and Kempinski hotels nearby, both of which are prestigious 5-star accommodations.
4. Milan, Italy
Milan, like Paris, is one of the world’s most famous fashion capitals. Italy is home to some of the most prestigious and well-recognized brands: Armani, Versace, Gucci, Prada, and many others. Shopping enthusiasts often visit the city of Milan for these particular stores, just as they visit Paris for France’s “own” brands. Moreover, Milan Fashion Week, held twice a year, never fails to attract the attention of fashion enthusiasts around the world. There’s no denying that in the fashion world, Milan stands on the podium.
When it comes to shopping in Milan, you should definitely visit Corso Venezia, a street famous for its stores and historic buildings. Here, you’ll find brands such as Vivienne Westwood and Dolce & Gabbana. After exploring Corso Venezia, head south and turn left into Via Bagutta and Via Monte Napoleone, where you’ll find Tiffany & Co., Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Prada, and other prestigious stores.
Not a fan of these expensive prestige brands? No worries. Visit Corso Buenos Aires—a beautiful, historical, wide street full of beautiful architecture, cafés, and more affordable stores such as H&M, Levi’s, and Mango. Plus, there are plenty of restaurants, so don’t forget to stop for some authentic Italian cuisine!
Some Final Tips
Some of the cities we’ve listed above could be any shopping lover’s dream. However, before you head out and lose yourself in retail therapy, take some time to plan ahead.
Once you’ve chosen your destination and booked your room, think about the logistics, such as how you’re going to stay in touch with the world. If you need a way to access cheap internet abroad without having to buy and swap physical SIM cards, consider using an eSIM.
An eSIM Europe plan, for example, provides inexpensive data plans that can be used in various European countries. Of course, plans for other parts of the world are also available.
So, whether you’re dreaming of stylish finds in Paris, hunting for the latest trends in Seoul, splurging in Dubai, or soaking up the chic vibes in Milan, each of these cities will guarantee a shopping experience like no other. Just grab your bags, hit the shops, and enjoy every moment of your retail adventure! Happy shopping!
