Many envision ancient castles, narrow cobblestone streets, and high-end restaurants when they think of Europe, but if you’re more in tune with the “shop til’ you drop” mentality, then this article is for you.
Europe has been at the forefront of fashion for centuries, and while styles and trends have changed immensely over the years, this area’s reputation for shopping has been a constant that is not likely to change anytime soon.
There’s nothing wrong with dreaming of sale signs and luxury stores rather than the white sand beaches and overcrowded tourist traps that are often associated with European countries – and some cities just seem to have that “it” factor when it comes to shopping. Whether you love hunting for deals, frequenting top designer shops, or perusing local thrift stores to find that one-of-a-kind item, we’ve got you covered.
We’ve outlined the 16 best cities for shopping in Europe to save you the hassle, so keep reading to discover the best place to spend your coin while abroad.
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1. Amsterdam, Netherlands
At the top of our list for the best cities for shopping in Europe is the charming Dutch capital of Amsterdam. This big city has eclectic fashion options from around the world, and the unique designs can be seen in storefronts all across town. Whether you’re looking for something quintessentially European or uniquely vintage, you’ll have no problem sniffing out some great finds.
The 9 Streets (or De 9 Straatjes in Dutch) is one of the best areas for shopping in Amsterdam. This aptly named area is comprised of nine small streets in one of the city’s most beautiful neighborhoods (the Jordaan). You can peruse vintage thrift stores, hand-made jewelry shops, trendy boutiques, and art galleries in this area, all while taking in beautiful scenes of the iconic canals and narrow houses that line the streets.
Once you’re ready for a break from shopping, you’ll find tons of cafes and restaurants in this area as well, and if you stick around until evening you’ll be treated to one of the city’s beautiful sunsets over the canals.
2. Milan, Italy
It should come as no surprise that the global fashion icon of Milan is a top contender for the best city for shopping in Europe, and this northern Italian city has no problem living up to its reputation.
If luxury brands are your bread and butter, make a beeline for Via Montenapoleone where you’ll find some of the most opulent boutiques including Prada, Gucci, and Valentino.
Those more interested in Italian brands should make their way to Corso Venezia, which features both national and international designs in addition to stunning palaces, gardens, and parks.
Even those on a budget will be able to shop care-free while in Milan, just head to Corso Vittorio Emanuelle II. Boasting some of the cheapest stores in Europe, this street is jam-packed with some of the biggest names in fashion for average consumers, including Zara, Bershka, H&M, and Mango, to name just a few.
A shopping trip to Milan wouldn’t be complete without visiting the longest shopping street in all of Europe – Corso Buenos Aires. This street stretches over 1km (.62 miles) and is home to over 350 stores!
3. Stockholm, Sweden
Forget IKEA. Sweden has way more to offer in terms of chic Scandinavian design than their famous run-of-the-mill furniture store, and the capital city of Stockholm is one of the best places to shop in all of Europe.
Stockholm is renowned for its posh (if not a bit bougie) residents, and if opulence is your aim, you’ll find stores like Gucci, Prada, Chanel, and Mulberry on the famous Birger Jarlsgatan in the Ӧstermalm district – just a stone’s throw from Central Station. This area of Stockholm is also bursting with stores proudly waving their Nordic flag, including Tiger of Sweden, & Other Stories, H&M, and Filippa K.
In addition to chic trends, Stockholm is also known for its rainy climate. If you’re looking to stay dry you could always visit the famous MOOD Stockholm, a mall that features top Swedish talent and all the staples of European style.
You could also live like a Swedish royal by visiting the Nordiska Kompaniet, one of the city’s leading department stores. This beautiful building was built in 1915 and its five levels are filled with designer stores that have been enticing both celebrities and members of the royal family for over a century.
4. Cannes, France
Renowned for its famous film festival and lavish red carpet moments, cosmopolitan Cannes is one of the best cities for shopping in Europe. Fashionistas from around the world flaunt their best getups on the streets of this Mediterranean town, and those looking to update their wardrobe while in Cannes will have plenty of opportunities to do so.
While it may not be the most affordable city to shop in, the high-end boutiques, perfumeries, and trendy storefronts are definitely a welcome sight for shoppers. The Boulevard de la Croisette is where luxury fashion brands like Armani, Gucci, and Prada have set up shop, and you’ll be treated to stunning views of the busy waterfront as you make your way along the street.
Head one street back from the Boulevard de la Croisette and you’ll find Cannes’ main shopping street – Rue d’Antibes. This street houses a mix of high-end brands, trendy storefronts, and charming cafes and wine bars, though beware of the massive crowds of tourists that frequent this area during the high season.
To avoid the swaths of tourists altogether, you can head one more street back onto the Rue Meynadier where more local shops and delicatessens line the street. This is a much less crowded area, allowing you to window shop at your own pace. The Rue Meynadier is a hidden gem for those looking for affordable fashion, and some of the local boutiques offer one-of-a-kind pieces at a fraction of the price of the stores on the main drag.
5. Barcelona, Spain
Fashion-forward Barcelona is one of the best cities for shopping in Europe, and its individualistic flair helps it stand out against other cities in the region. This Spanish city is great for budget buyers thanks to its affordable and authentic offerings, but there’s plenty to choose from for luxury lovers as well.
Passeig de Gracia has a little something for everyone, with designer stores like Chanel, Jimmy Choo, Louis Vuitton, and Burberry, in addition to more affordable shops like Zara and Mango. Even if you don’t end up buying anything, this lovely tree-lined street is still worth visiting.
Plaza Catalunya is also known for having an array of good shopping opportunities, including those at El Triangle Mall, the department store El Corte Ingles, and the largest perfume store in the whole city – Sephora Triangle.
For a more intimate shopping experience in Barcelona, head to Portal de L’Angel located a short distance from Plaza Catalunya. Here you’ll find a few charming boutiques along with a variety of cafes and restaurants serving up traditional Spanish cuisine with flare.
6. Paris, France
Parisians are known for their chic sense of style, so it should come as no surprise that this French capital is one of the best cities for shopping in Europe.
You’ve likely heard of the world-famous Avenue des Champs-Élysées with its famous Arc de Triomphe and more designer stores than nearly anywhere else on earth. But if you’d like a more relaxed shopping experience without the hordes of tourists that usually plague this lovely avenue, head to the nearby Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré. Slightly more narrow and much more discreet than its famous neighbor, the locals consider this street to be the Mecca of Paris fashion.
But it’s not just high fashion that you’ll find in Paris while out shopping. The Marais Quarter is home to some of the best shops in the city, including antique stores, vintage shops, perfumeries, high-end cosmetic stores, and fine art galleries. There’s a little something for everyone in this area.
Book lovers will find heaven on earth in the St-Germain-des-Pres area, with various bookstores steepled in both the classics and new releases. There are also some funky furniture stores and designer boutiques in this area as well.
7. Rome, Italy
At first glance, Rome may feel more like a historical hot spot than a booming shopping destination, but dig a little deeper and you’ll find that this capital city is both things at once. While Rome doesn’t have any actual shopping malls, most stores you can be found charmingly tucked into side streets around the city.
For starters, Via del Corso is one of the most popular areas for shopping in Rome. You’ll find all the international staples here including Nike, Levis, Vans, and more, and while you shop you’ll be treated to views of charming piazzas and historical architecture as a bonus.
The lovely Via Condotti is the place to be if you’re looking for luxury shops, and even if you don’t see anything in your budget, an evening stroll is 100% free and definitely worth your while.
Those in search of unique, one-of-a-kind items will have their best luck along the narrow Via dei Coronari. This eclectic street features small boutiques, jewelry stores, and even an antique shop here and there. You may also have some luck in the area around Piazza Campo de Fiori, especially if you appreciate high-quality goods like cashmere and real Italian leather.
8. Berlin, Germany
As one of the most international cities in Europe, you’ll find plenty of great shopping opportunities in Berlin. Germany’s capital city has a vibe all its own, and residents report feeling free to be exactly who they want to be. From snazzy businessmen to tatted-up hipsters, you’ll find it all in Berlin.
One of the main shopping areas in the city is Kurfürstendamm, a street with shops for both budget shoppers and those looking to splurge. You’ll find all the familiar high-end names like Prada and Chanel, along with a few lesser-known European designers like Jil Sander and Escada. Those trying to save some money can head to more affordable options like H&M and Mango. Other popular shopping streets in Berlin include Friedrichstrasse and Tauentzienstrasse.
For a more unique shopping experience in Berlin, you can hunt for vintage goodies and pay by the kilo at different Pick N’ Weigh stores around the city, or enjoy a drink while you shop at the much-loved Voodoo Market on Oderbergerstrasse.
If you’re in a rush and are shopping more out of necessity than entertainment, you’ll find a few different clothing and accessory stores right inside some of the bigger train stations around the city.
9. London, England
London is one of the best and most renowned cities in Europe, especially when it comes to shopping. The world-famous Oxford Street is a great place to begin your day, and you can find pretty much anything your heart desires along this stretch. From souvenirs and sports clothes to antiques and accessories and everything in between, Oxford Street seemingly has it all. There are over 300 designer boutiques here, and some of the biggest names in fashion are also housed along this street.
There are also plenty of luxury brand stores situated around London, and some of the best streets for those with extra spending money are Mayfair and Bond Street. These streets are home to opulent names like Tiffany & Co, Louis Vuitton, and Burberry to name just a few.
Those on the hunt for something a little more budget-friendly should head straight for the neighborhood of Shoreditch. Here you’ll find tons of kitschy thrift shops where you can sift through treasures that others have left behind. Some of the top shops here include Rokit Vintage, Beyond Retro, and Vintage Heaven.
10. Budapest, Hungary
Towering churches, ancient architecture, and majestic rivers are just part of what makes Budapest a must-see destination, but the shopping opportunities here are also some of the best in Europe.
The city center is a great place to start your shopping spree, and you’ll find a variety of streets in this area offering up trendy clothing and accessories. Vaci Street is a favorite amongst locals and out of towners alike, and here you’ll find both charming boutiques and plenty of options for food and refreshments once you’re ready for a pick-me-up.
Of course, Fashion Street must also be mentioned when we’re talking about the best shopping streets in Budapest, and this pedestrian-only stretch is lined with upscale fashion boutiques and mouth-watering eateries.
The nearby Deák tér and Vörösmarty tér are home to some of the most famous names in fashion, including Lacoste, Hugo Boss, Tommy Hilfiger, and Maxa Mara, while Andrassy Avenue houses luxury fashion brands like Gucci, Louis Vuitton, and more.
11. Copenhagen, Denmark
From the second you step foot off the plane in Copenhagen, you’ll be greeted with some of the best shopping opportunities in Europe. It doesn’t stop at the airport either, and Denmark’s capital city is home to some of the best furniture and clothing designs in the world.
As you wander the streets, you’ll see some of the most famous Scandinavian brands, including Sweden’s Weekday and Monki, in addition to chic Danish brands like Samsøe & Samsøe, Brøgger, COS, and Gestuz.
While there are great shopping opportunities all around the city, Strøget (one of Europe’s longest walking streets) will give you the most options. You’ll find massive chain stores in addition to some of the world’s most expensive brands and everything in between. Whether you’re on the hunt for a souvenir, some new jewelry, or a whole new wardrobe, you’ll have no issue locating anything and everything your heart desires on Strøget.
Copenhagen is also famous for its wealth of vintage shops and flea markets, so if you’re visiting in the summer don’t hesitate to approach the tables of treasures popped up at various squares throughout the city. You just might find something you didn’t even know you needed!
12. Krakow, Poland
One of the best cities for shopping in Europe is without a doubt the city of Krakow, especially for those who are on a budget. This is one of the cheapest cities in Europe, but the artisan offerings available will have you feeling like you’ve struck gold.
A must-stop shop in this Polish city is the Sukiennice, or Cloth Hall. This ancient building dates back to the Renaissance, and it’s even listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can get your history lesson and shopping done at the same time inside of this iconic building, and you’ll find stalls full of handmade goods including carved wooden items, leather purses, jewelry, ceramics, and more.
The Galleria Kazimierz offers a more traditional shopping experience, with charming bookstores, small boutiques, and plenty of tantalizing cafes. While not right in the city center, you can easily reach the galleria by tram, and don’t miss your chance to see the lovely Wawel Castle while you’re in this area!
For an authentic Polish shopping experience, head far from the city center into the neighborhood of Bonarka. Here you’ll find some of the local’s favorite value shops, along with some well-known luxury brands to boot.
13. Dusseldorf, Germany
Dusseldorf is another one of Europe’s best cities for shopping, and this bustling metropolis has a little something for everyone. You’ll find high-end boutiques, international brands, and even some ethically sourced garments from different countries around the world.
The lovely Königsalle (sometimes referred to simply as the Kö) is a great place to start shopping in Dusseldorf, and this street is home to some top luxury brands like Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Cartier, and Hermes, to name a few. You’ll also be treated to splendid waterfront views as you peruse the storefronts, and once you get hungry, there are plenty of charming cafes tucked into the smaller side streets.
While the Kö is the most famous shopping street in Dusseldorf, the Schadowstrasse definitely gives it a run for its money. Known as “Germany’s shopping mile,” this long stretch of stores has all the popular international brands, all at a much lower price than those on the opulent Königsalle.
Fun trinkets, souvenirs, and tasty treats can be found at the market on Carlsplatz, and if you’re visiting during the winter months you’ll get to experience one of the best Christmas markets in all of Germany.
14. Athens, Greece
Aside from being a huge historic hub, Athens is also one of the best cities in Europe when it comes to shopping.
One of the most popular streets for pursuing fashion options is Ermou Street. Here you’ll find some of the main staples of European fashion like Mango and Zara, but this street also boasts some big names in Greek fashion like Lynne, BSB, and more.
The posh neighborhood of Kolonaki is also a great place to spend some cash, and you’ll find both chain stores and some high-end fashion boutiques in this area. Don’t leave this area before stopping into Zeus+Dion, a Greek brand that sells traditionally crated attire including shoes and accessories. Callista Crafts is another fun stop and specializes in high-quality leather shoes and bags.
If it’s jewelry you’re after, then the pedestrian street of Voukourestiou is the place for you. You’ll also find a few luxury designer stores in this area as well, including Louis Vuitton and Hermes.
Those who prefer a one-stop-shop would be hard-pressed to find a better destination than Attica, a massive department store located along Panepistimiou Street that houses over 850 different stores.
15. Aix en Provence, France
France is known for its charming collection of market towns, but of all the villages, Aix en Provence stands out among the bunch. Not only is it a great day trip from Marseilles, but it’s also one of the best cities for shopping in Europe for those who are looking for something special.
The markets are a good place to start your shopping spree, and you’ll find them spread across the city center on any given day of the week. From food to fashion and everything in between, these charming markets are the best way to soak in all that is Aix en Provence.
After you stop by a market or two, make your way to Cours Mirabeau and check out antique shops, small french boutiques, and the lavender-infused goods that this region is famed for. This is also the city’s main boulevard, so you’ll find plenty of cafes and restaurants to pop into once you need a break from shopping.
Other popular shopping areas in Aix en Provence include Les Allées where some high-end luxury stores are located, and Rue Espariat, where you’ll find famous French cosmetic brands like Bastide and L’Occitane along with some high-end boutiques.
16. Seville, Spain
From bustling marketplaces and handcrafted artisan stalls to chain fashion brands and luxury boutiques, Seville is one of the best cities for shopping in Europe. The city center is packed with a wide selection of shops, and you’ll find endless options for window shopping no matter what your budget is. The two main shopping streets in the city center are Sierpes and Tetuan, which run parallel to each other.
For some of the best high-end options, head to Calle Asunción, the Nervion neighborhood, or Los Arcos – a small shopping mall with international brands.
If you’re looking for something local, check out some Spanish brands that are located in Seville. La Seta Coqueta is one of the best, and here you’ll find casual and affordable garments from local Spanish sellers.
For a traditional shopping experience, you can head to one of the famous department stores located along Avenida de Luis de Morales or Calle Luis Montoto.
