Milan Fashion & Shopping: Quadrilatero d'Oro & Designer Districts

Milan is the world's fashion capital — the city where Giorgio Armani, Versace, Prada, Gucci, Dolce & Gabbana and hundreds of other labels were born, and where the Quadrilatero della Moda (Fashion Quadrilateral) concentrates more couture per square metre than anywhere on Earth. But Milan's shopping extends far beyond the designer district.

Quadrilatero della Moda

The four streets that define luxury retail: Via Montenapoleone (the most expensive street in Europe by rent), Via della Spiga, Via Sant'Andrea and Corso Venezia. Every major Italian and international luxury house has its flagship here. Window shopping is free and spectacular — the displays are architectural installations. Best viewed in the golden light of evening.

Corso Buenos Aires

Milan's longest shopping street — 350+ shops in 1km, the city's affordable high-street alternative. Zara, H&M, Mango but also mid-range Italian brands and sports shops. Always packed.

Brera & Navigli

Brera (around Via Brera and Via Fiori Chiari) — independent designers, vintage shops, concept stores and antiques. Navigli — vintage markets along the canals, especially the last Sunday of the month (Mercatone dell'Antiquariato).