If you think shopping in ports means overcrowded markets with kitschy merchandise, you may be surprised to discover some of the best shopping meccas lie in these European cities. From authentic hand made leather goods to the latest designer handbags, here’s your go-to guide to Europe’s best shopping ports.
River Cruises:
Milan, Italy
One of the most recognized fashion meccas in the world undoubtedly has the latest designer trends. Milan also boasts the oldest shopping mall in the world, Galleria Vittorio Emanuele. Here, high-end couture shops reign; Versace, Chanel, Louis Vuitton. Quadrilatero d’Oro or the “golden rectangle” is the pulse of the fashion-centric city, exploding with just about every designer you can imagine. Don’t miss Piazza del Duomo, the 10 floors retail wonderland featuring everything from home goods to clothing.
Best For: Fashionistas with unlimited budgets
Shopping Streets: Via Montenapoleone, Corso Buenos Aires
Geneva, Switzerland
Watch enthusiasts take heed. Geneva is the city known for luxury timepieces. Gleaming with renowned Swiss watches, you will want to head to Rue du Rhone and Rue de la Confédération. Be sure to stop by the famous flower clock in the Jardin Anglais, a true symbol of Geneva. Brimming with charm, the city flourishes with magnificent markets. An epicures haven, Les Halles de Rives, is known as one of the most famous food markets in Europe. If your looking for designer boutiques and department stores, explore the block around Place du Molard.
Best For: Watch enthusiasts and high-end fashion
Shopping Streets: Rue du Rhône, Rue du Mont-Blanc
Porto, Portugal
The best part about shopping in Portugal lies within the boutique shops passed from generation to generation. If you prefer unique stores rather than big-name retailers, you will love Porto. Our favorites include; for reasonable and unique finds from local craftsman, La Vida Portuguesa for everything from hand-printed stationery to ceramics, and the Feeting Room for authentic Portugues brands.
Best For: Local handmade goods and charming boutiques
Shopping Streets: Rua Santa Catarina, Rua Formosa
Ocean Cruises:
Nice, France
Overflowing with glamour, if you can pull yourself away from Nice’s sun-drenched beaches, you’ll find a high octane shopping experience with over 7000 stores awaiting. The streets of the French Riviera offer something for everyone, from local boutiques to the best names in fashion. Gourmands will revel in Alziari, a family run business which has been growing olives since the mid-1800s and selling the delightful results in a charming boutique. gLOVEme is a must for handcrafted leather items at amazing prices. And of course, there’s Chanel, Hermes, Bémon Gérald and any other haute couture brand on your radar.
Best For: A variety of local goods and couture brands
Shopping Streets: Carré d’Or, Rue Paradis, Cours Saleya, Avenue Jean Medecin
Civitavecchia, Italy
Steps away from the port lies a world of shopping pleasures. Via Garibaldi will likely be the first street you stumble upon. A great place to grab a bite and begin your shopping extravaganza. Civitavecchia’s main shopping area is not far beyond Via Garibaldi. Corso Centocelle’s pedestrian-filled streets feature many of the towns best shops. For a wide range of designer stores at great prices, head to Castel Romano. While, Civitavecchia is about 50 miles away from Rome, if you have the time and transportation, be sure to venture to Via del Corso and Via Dei Condotti.
Best For: Quaint markets in a seaside town
Shopping Streets: Via Garibaldi, Corso Centocelle
Whether you fancy designer duds or handcrafted goods, Europe boast some of the best shopping around. The next time you sail into one of these European ports, get your dose of retail therapy. You never know what you may find!