Want to book a holiday that revolves around shopping? Whether you prefer private boutiques or flagship high street stores, there are so many stylish destinations to explore across the globe.
From the buzz of Barcelona’s Passeig de Gràcia to the Parisian romance of the Avenue des Champs-Élysées, you won’t be short of world-class options in Europe. Venturing further into Asia or even across the Atlantic could make your trip even more memorable.
Below, we’ve shared some of our favourite shopping destinations for this season.
Outlets for designer deals
Looking for designer merchandise at a friendly price point? Only the world’s best shopping outlets will do. These shopping centres will always be worth a journey, largely thanks to the variety of brands on offer.
Luckily, many of these outlets are also conveniently located near major cities for ease of access. Just a few of the best include:
- Bicester Village, UK: Perhaps the biggest designer outlet in the UK, Bicester is close to Oxford and just an hour by train from London. There are 150 outlet boutiques offering designer goods and clothing for a lower price. From AllSaints and Aesop to Gucci and L’Occitane, you’ll find everything needed for a premium haul.
- La Vallée Village, France: Just an hour’s drive from Paris, this unique shopping destination feels more like a town in its own right. You’ll be able to find unique French brands here, along with famous names like Saint Laurent and Givenchy. It’s owned by the same company as Bicester Village, so you can expect the same quality and attention to detail too.
- The Outlet Village, Dubai: This indoor outlet easily puts the UAE on the world stage for designer shopping. Home to huge names like Armani, Calvin Klein, PANDORA and many more, it’s the perfect place to buy a gift for yourself or someone special. Outlets like these make a must-see stop on all Dubai holidays from the UK.
Markets, boutiques and local finds
Beyond the designer outlets and huge department stores, some of the most memorable shopping moments can be created in bustling markets and small, independent boutiques. These destinations offer the chance to find authentic items with a little more personality.
- Marrakech, Morocco: The souks of Marrakech are delight for the senses. This labyrinth of covered alleyways is filled with local crafts, from intricate leather goods to vibrant ceramics and spiced teas. Haggling is a key part of the experience here, so don’t be afraid to negotiate a lower price.
- Istanbul, Turkey: The Grand Bazaar in Istanbul is one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world. It’s a spectacular place to find everything from hand-painted lamps to traditional Turkish textiles. With over 4,000 shops, it’s easy to get lost here – but that’s part of the fun!
- Lisbon, Portugal: For something a little bit different, head to the LxFactory in Lisbon. This creative hub, found in a restored 19th-century textile mill complex, is teeming with boutiques and street art. It’s the perfect place to pick up vintage clothes, handmade jewellery, or a piece of local art that you won’t find on the high street.
Practical planning tips
Ready to start planning your holiday now? Before you book your flights, see our top tips for forward planning:
- Time it right for the best prices
- Be aware of customs and taxes
- Do your research to avoid tourist traps
- Pack smart to save space for shopping
- Balance is key: Make sure to explore the city too!
