Things to Do in Milano
Milano’s Luxury Fashion District
Boutiques in the famous Quadrilatero della Moda
While many of Milano’s tourists will flock to The Galleria for a taste of high-end fashion, savvy shoppers know that few streets are more iconic than Via Montenapoleone. Similar to the Parisian Champs-Elysées and Bond Street in London, Via Montenapoleone anchors the heart of Milano’s boutique fashion district, which is known as Quadrilatero della Moda. Here, many of the most famous names in luxury set up their flagship operations. Lining the narrow streets are elegant, yet unassuming stone edifices housing colorful examples of the latest trends in the windows.
For those planning to do some luxury shopping in Milano, the boutiques in the Quadrilatero della Moda represent a better destination than anywhere else in the city. While tourists do make their way to the area, the stores are generally much less congested than those in or near The Galleria. The flagship stores also offer a more complete experience for shoppers, with no expenses spared. In addition to doorman service, you can expect amenities ranging from bottled water to coffee and snacks. In some cases brands may also offer additional experiences and services, catered to the customer.
Even if you aren’t planning to spend a small fortune on leather goods or silk, Quadrilatero della Moda makes for a nice stroll. Although the area is open to car traffic, pedestrians dominate the area. Window-shopping is a common pastime that offers a view into high fashion without the lofty price tag. One retailer even displays a vintage Lamborghini in their main lobby. Beyond the window dressings, there are also a number of luxurious experiences, with high-end cafes and eateries tucked in between the pillars of the fashion industry. Whether you’re planning to shop or just to dream, the boutique brands of Milano are well worth a visit.
Good to Know
- Quadrilatero della Moda loosely translates to “fashion quadrilateral.” The district therefore has an emphasis on luxury fashion, though there are a handful of other retailers in the area.
- The quadrilateral is located a short walk from notable tourist destinations Duomo di Milano, Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, and Teatro alla Scala.
- Most streets in the district are open to traffic. Although pedestrians dominate the area, you should be aware of cars that tend to speed through the narrow streets with little notice.
- Shopping in Quadrilatero della Moda is generally recommended over The Galleria, due the quality of the experiences and breadth of shopping options. However, both are worth a visit if you have the time.
- If you plan to make a large purchase in the quadrilateral (or anywhere else), you will be eligible to receive a refund on the value-added tax (VAT). The retailers will require your passport to complete the documents.
- To receive your VAT refund, you’ll need to visit one of the many agencies dedicated to submitting your refund. Several locations can be found in the quadrilateral, while most tourists will spend time in line at the airport.
