If you’re visiting Florence and have ever dreamed of bringing home a little Italian luxury without paying full designer prices, there’s a shopping day trip you need to know about.
The Mall Firenze.
Located in the Tuscan countryside in Leccio, just outside Florence, The Mall is an open-air luxury outlet featuring some of the biggest names in Italian and international fashion.
Think Gucci. Ferragamo. Prada’s famous outlet nearby. Valentino. Saint Laurent. Bottega Veneta. Burberry. Fendi. Versace.
And yes…you can absolutely make a day of it.
I’ve put together this guide with everything you need to know about visiting The Mall from Florence, including how to get there, what to expect, the brands you’ll find, where to eat, how VAT refunds work, and when to visit for the best deals.
What Exactly Is The Mall Firenze?
First things first: The Mall Firenze isn’t your typical shopping mall.
It’s an open-air luxury outlet village in the Tuscan countryside, with individual designer boutiques arranged throughout a pedestrian-friendly complex.
It’s located at:
The Mall Firenze
Via Europa 8
50066 Leccio Reggello (FI), Italy
The setting is actually part of the experience. Instead of walking through an enclosed shopping center, you’re strolling between boutiques in the Tuscan countryside.
And while the outlet is primarily known for luxury fashion, you’ll also find places to eat, coffee, wine, beauty services and visitor amenities.
Current opening hours
The Mall Firenze is currently open:
Every day: 10:00 AM–7:00 PM
Holiday hours can differ, so always check before planning your shopping day — particularly around Christmas, New Year’s Day and Easter.
How to Get From Florence to The Mall
This is one of the biggest questions I get:
Do you need a car?
Nope!
The easiest option for most visitors is the dedicated The Mall by Bus service operated by Busitalia.
And here’s the important part:
The bus does NOT leave directly from the train platforms at Santa Maria Novella.
The Florence departure point is Piazzale Montelungo, which is just a short walk from Firenze Santa Maria Novella train station.
If you’re standing inside Santa Maria Novella facing the train platforms, exit toward the right side of the station, follow Via Valfonda toward Viale Strozzi and continue toward the Fortezza da Basso area.
Look for the bus terminal at Piazzale Montelungo.
It’s close enough to the station that you don’t need a taxi just to get to the bus.
The Mall by Bus: What You Need to Know
The direct bus runs between Florence and The Mall throughout the day.
Current scheduled departures from Florence include:
- 8:40 AM
- 9:10 AM
- 9:30 AM
- 10:00 AM
- 11:00 AM
- 12:00 PM
- 1:00 PM
- 2:00 PM
- 3:30 PM
- 4:00 PM
- 5:00 PM
Return departures from The Mall currently include:
- 9:45 AM
- 10:10 AM
- 1:00 PM
- 2:00 PM
- 2:30 PM
- 3:00 PM
- 4:00 PM
- 5:00 PM
- 6:00 PM
- 7:20 PM
Schedules can change, so check the current timetable when you’re planning your visit.
How much does the bus cost?
Current fares are:
One way: €9.50
Round trip: €18
Children under 12 receive reduced fares, and children under 4 can travel free when accompanied by a paying adult.
You can purchase tickets online, through Trenitalia sales channels, via the DropTicket app or directly from the driver without a surcharge.
My recommendation: If you know you’re going, buy your ticket online ahead of time. Online ticket holders receive priority boarding, which can be particularly useful during busy shopping periods.
What Time Should You Go?
If you’re visiting specifically to shop, I recommend taking an early bus.
Why?
Because you want time.
The Mall has a lot of boutiques, and you’re probably going to want to browse rather than sprint through the outlet trying to find your size before your return bus.
I’d aim to arrive around opening time and give yourself at least 4–5 hours.
If you’re a serious luxury shopper, you could easily spend the entire day there.
My ideal schedule:
8:40 AM: Bus from Florence
~9:30 AM: Arrive at The Mall
10:00 AM: Shopping begins
12:30 PM: Lunch
1:30–4:30 PM: More shopping + VAT refund
5:00–6:00 PM: Return to Florence
Of course, adjust this around the current bus timetable.
What Brands Are at The Mall Firenze?
This is where The Mall really earns its reputation.
The current boutique lineup includes a huge selection of luxury brands, including:
Italian Designers
🇮🇹 Gucci
🇮🇹 Ferragamo
🇮🇹 Fendi
🇮🇹 Bottega Veneta
🇮🇹 Valentino Garavani
🇮🇹 Versace
🇮🇹 Armani
🇮🇹 Dolce & Gabbana
🇮🇹 Tod’s
🇮🇹 Marni
🇮🇹 Etro
🇮🇹 Roberto Cavalli
🇮🇹 Loro Piana
🇮🇹 Zegna
🇮🇹 Herno
🇮🇹 Moschino
🇮🇹 Jil Sander
🇮🇹 Ermanno Scervino
International Designers
Burberry
Saint Laurent
Balenciaga
Balmain
Alexander McQueen
Chloé
Coach
Givenchy
Jimmy Choo
Tom Ford
Mulberry
Maison Margiela
And that’s only part of the current lineup.
The exact selection of boutiques, inventory and merchandise changes, so don’t plan your entire trip around finding one particular handbag, shoe or size.
That’s part of outlet shopping.
You never quite know what you’re going to find.
What Makes Outlet Shopping Different?
Here’s something important to understand before you go:
You’re not necessarily shopping last season’s department-store inventory at a massive discount.
Outlet inventory can include past-season merchandise, outlet-specific pieces, discontinued styles and limited quantities.
That means:
You may find an incredible deal…
But you may also find that the item you’ve been dreaming about isn’t available in your size or preferred color.
My best advice?
Go with an open mind.
Instead of deciding:
“I’m going to The Mall to buy a Gucci bag.”
Try:
“I’m going to The Mall to see what I can find.”
You might surprise yourself.
How to Get Even Better Deals: Know the Saldi
If you’re trying to maximize your savings, pay attention to Italy’s saldi, or seasonal sales.
Italy has two major sale periods:
Winter Saldi
Winter sales generally begin in early January and run for several weeks.
This is an excellent time to look for:
- Coats
- Sweaters
- Boots
- Winter accessories
- Handbags
- Cold-weather clothing
Summer Saldi
Summer sales generally begin in early July.
This is your chance to look for:
- Dresses
- Sandals
- Summer clothing
- Sunglasses
- Swimwear
- Lightweight designer pieces
But here’s the catch…
The Mall is already an outlet.
That means you shouldn’t automatically assume every boutique will add the same seasonal-sale percentage on top of its normal outlet pricing.
Promotions and markdowns can vary by brand and by merchandise.
So when you’re visiting during saldi season, ask each boutique what additional promotions are currently available.
That’s where you can potentially score an especially good deal.
What Does “Saldi” Actually Mean?
You’ll see the word SALDI everywhere during Italian sale season.
It simply means SALE.
You might see signs saying:
SALDI -30%
SALDI -50%
SALDI -70%
The percentage indicates the markdown.
And as the sale progresses, discounts can sometimes become deeper — but there’s a tradeoff.
Early saldi:
More sizes + more selection.
Later saldi:
Potentially bigger discounts + fewer choices.
So if you’re hunting for something specific, I’d prioritize selection over the deepest possible discount.
If you’re just looking for a fabulous deal?
Go later.
VAT Refunds at The Mall Firenze
If you’re visiting Italy from outside the European Union, this is one of the most important sections of this guide.
You may be eligible for a VAT refund on qualifying purchases.
And The Mall Firenze has its own Tax Free Lounge, which makes the process considerably more convenient.
Who Can Get a VAT Refund?
Generally, VAT refunds are available to visitors who are resident outside the European Union and are taking qualifying purchases out of the EU.
So if you’re visiting Italy from the United States, for example, you may qualify.
If you live in the EU, you generally won’t.
There are rules and documentation requirements, so always confirm your eligibility with the store when making your purchase.
The €70 Rule
At The Mall Firenze, the current Tax Free Lounge information states that non-EU visitors can request a refund on purchases over €70.
And here’s something particularly useful:
The Tax Free Lounge can process eligible purchases made not only at The Mall but elsewhere in Italy, provided you have the appropriate Tax Free documentation.
That means you may be able to combine qualifying purchases from different stores into your VAT-refund process.
Keep every receipt and Tax Free form.
How the VAT Refund Process Works
Here’s the basic process:
Step 1: Tell the Store You’re a Tax-Free Shopper
When you’re checking out, tell the boutique that you’re visiting from outside the EU and want to claim a VAT refund.
You’ll need to provide the required identification information.
Do this at the time of purchase.
Don’t walk away and assume you can come back later.
Step 2: Get Your Tax Free Documents
The store will issue the necessary Tax Free documentation.
Keep these forms!
I’d recommend keeping them together in one envelope or folder for the rest of your trip.
Step 3: Visit the Tax Free Lounge at The Mall
Before leaving The Mall, take your documents to the Tax Free Lounge.
You’ll need:
- Your Tax Free forms
- Your passport
- A valid credit card in your name if required for the refund method
The Mall currently operates the Tax Free Lounge from 11:30 AM–7:15 PM.
Step 4: Receive Your Advance Refund
The Mall’s Tax Free Lounge can provide an immediate partial refund, subject to its current limits and conditions.
The current maximums listed by The Mall are:
€999.50 in cash
or
€1,500 by credit card
Larger refunds can be requested at your final EU departure airport.
BUT — Your VAT Refund Isn’t Finished Yet!
This is the part that travelers absolutely need to understand.
Getting your refund at The Mall does NOT complete the VAT process.
When you leave the European Union, you still need to have the Tax Free documentation validated by customs at your final EU departure point.
So if you’re:
Florence → Paris → New York
your final EU departure point is Paris, not Florence.
That’s where you’ll need to complete the customs validation.
Keep your purchases accessible.
Customs may require you to show the purchased goods.
Don’t pack your newly purchased designer handbag into checked luggage before you’ve completed the necessary customs process.
Give Yourself Extra Airport Time
If you’re planning to claim a VAT refund, do not leave it until the last five minutes before your flight.
Give yourself extra time at the airport.
And if you’re connecting through another EU country before leaving the EU, make sure you understand where your customs validation needs to happen.
This is one of those situations where spending a little extra time planning can save you a lot of stress.
Want to Ship Your Purchases Home?
The Mall also offers a paid DHL shipping service for qualifying purchases made at The Mall when a VAT refund has been requested.
The service is currently available Monday–Saturday during designated hours.
You’ll need your relevant documentation and your EU departure flight information.
There are restrictions on certain categories of goods, so ask the Tax Free Lounge before assuming everything can be shipped.
Where Can You Eat at The Mall?
Shopping makes you hungry.
Luckily, you don’t have to leave The Mall to find something to eat.
One of the main dining options is ToscaNino, which offers both a restaurant and bistro-style experience.
ToscaNino Restaurant & Bottega
This is your option when you want to sit down for a proper Tuscan-inspired meal.
The restaurant combines dining with a food-and-wine shop, making it a fun place to browse local products after lunch.
Reservations are available, and The Mall recommends booking ahead for larger groups.
ToscaNino Bistrò
If you don’t want a full sit-down meal, the bistro is a more casual option for coffee, pastries, lunch and aperitivo-style offerings.
Coronas Café
You’ll also find a café option for a quicker coffee, snack or break between boutiques.
My Advice: Don’t Skip Lunch
This is not the day to survive on a €3 espresso.
You’re going to be walking.
You’re going to be trying things on.
You’re going to be carrying shopping bags.
Take a proper lunch break.
It’s also a great way to give yourself an hour to regroup and decide whether you actually need to buy the fifth pair of shoes you’ve been carrying around.
Other Useful Services at The Mall
The Mall offers several services that can make a shopping day much easier.
Phone charging
The Welcome Lounge offers charger loans, subject to availability.
Umbrella rental
Because this is Tuscany and weather has opinions.
Umbrella rentals are available through the visitor services.
Strollers
Free stroller rental is available.
Wheelchairs
Wheelchair rental is also available.
Electric vehicle charging
EV charging is available for visitors arriving by car.
Personal shopping
If you’re looking for a more personalized experience, The Mall offers private boutique appointments and personal-shopping services.
This could be particularly useful if you’re shopping for a special occasion, investing in a designer piece or simply want help navigating the boutiques.
Can You Have Your Purchases Shipped?
Yes.
The Mall has a Mail Order service, which can be useful if you’re traveling with limited luggage space.
This can be particularly appealing if you’re doing a longer trip through Italy and don’t want to carry shopping bags from Florence to Rome to Venice to wherever you’re headed next.
Ask the boutique or visitor services about the current shipping options.
Join The Mall Club
If you’re planning to shop at The Mall, check out The Mall Club, the outlet’s loyalty program.
It can offer additional benefits and promotions, so it’s worth looking into before your visit.
Can You Drive to The Mall?
Absolutely.
If you’re renting a car and exploring Tuscany, driving is another easy option.
The Mall is located near the Incisa-Reggello motorway exit.
There is free parking available at the outlet.
Driving can actually make sense if you’re combining your shopping day with other stops around the Valdarno or Chianti area.
But if you’re staying in Florence without a car?
Take the bus.
It’s direct, convenient and saves you the headache of renting a car just for shopping.
The Mall vs. Prada: An Important Distinction
Here’s something that confuses a LOT of first-time visitors.
People often talk about doing:
“The Mall + Prada outlet.”
That’s because the famous Prada outlet at Space is nearby.
But it’s important to understand that the Prada outlet is not the same outlet as The Mall Firenze.
They’re separate shopping destinations.
If Prada is on your must-shop list, research the current location and transportation options separately rather than assuming it’s one of the boutiques inside The Mall.
How Long Should You Spend There?
For a first-time visitor, I’d plan on:
Quick visit
3 hours
Good if you already know exactly what you’re looking for.
Comfortable visit
4–5 hours
My recommendation for most travelers.
Enough time to browse, shop, eat lunch and deal with your VAT paperwork.
Serious shopping day
6+ hours
If you’re visiting during saldi season, shopping for multiple people or want to visit nearly every boutique.
My Best Tips for Shopping at The Mall
1. Make a wish list before you go.
Know which brands you actually care about.
Otherwise you’ll spend three hours wandering around in a luxury-induced haze.
2. Wear comfortable shoes.
This is not the day for your cute-but-questionable Italian boots.
You’re going to walk.
3. Bring your passport.
Especially if you’re planning to shop tax-free.
4. Keep your receipts.
Every single one.
5. Keep your purchases accessible.
You’ll need them available for customs validation when you leave the EU.
6. Don’t spend your entire budget at the first boutique.
Browse.
Compare.
Then decide.
7. Go early during saldi.
The popular items and sizes can disappear quickly.
8. Ask about additional promotions.
Even at an outlet, promotions can vary between boutiques.
9. Leave room in your suitcase.
Future-you will thank you.
10. Don’t forget to enjoy Tuscany.
You’re not shopping in a warehouse.
You’re shopping in the Tuscan countryside.
Take a breath. Have lunch. Enjoy the setting.
Is The Mall Actually Worth It?
That depends on what you’re shopping for.
If you’re expecting every designer item to be 70% off retail, you may be disappointed.
But if you enjoy luxury shopping and are willing to browse, compare prices and be flexible about styles and sizes, The Mall can be a fantastic place to find designer pieces for less than traditional retail prices.
And if you visit during the Italian saldi?
That’s when things can get particularly interesting.
The best strategy is:
Outlet price + seasonal promotion + VAT refund = potentially excellent savings.
Just remember that these discounts aren’t necessarily stackable at every boutique, so always ask what the final price and current promotions are.
When Is the Best Time to Visit The Mall?
January–February
Best for: Winter clothing + winter saldi
Look for coats, boots, sweaters and cold-weather accessories.
March–June
Best for: More relaxed shopping
You’ll generally have a wider range of spring/summer merchandise, although exact outlet inventory varies.
July–August
Best for: Summer shopping + summer saldi
This can be a particularly exciting time for bargain hunters, but expect busier shopping days.
September–November
Best for: Transitional clothing + quieter shopping
Fall can be a lovely time to combine The Mall with a Tuscan countryside day.
December
Best for: Holiday shopping
Just check holiday opening dates and hours carefully.
My Perfect The Mall Shopping Day From Florence
Here’s exactly how I’d do it:
8:30 AM
Walk from your Florence hotel to Santa Maria Novella.
8:40 AM
Take The Mall by Bus from Piazzale Montelungo.
Morning
Start shopping before the biggest crowds arrive.
12:30 PM
Stop for lunch at ToscaNino.
1:30 PM
Back to shopping.
4:00 PM
Start thinking about your VAT paperwork.
4:30 PM
Head to the Tax Free Lounge with your documents.
5:00 PM
One last lap through your favorite boutiques.
5:30–6:00 PM
Catch a return bus to Florence.
Evening
Drop off your shopping bags and celebrate your excellent financial decisions with an aperitivo.
Or…
Question your financial decisions over an aperitivo.
Either works.
Let’s Wrap It Up, Sondra…
Is The Mall worth adding to your Florence itinerary?
If you love fashion, designer shopping or finding a good luxury deal — absolutely.
But I wouldn’t recommend squeezing it into a packed two-day Florence itinerary just because you feel like you should go.
The Mall is a half-day to full-day experience, and it’s outside Florence.
Give yourself the time to enjoy it.
Take the bus.
Browse.
Have lunch.
Ask about promotions.
Take advantage of the Tax Free Lounge if you’re eligible.
And if you’re visiting during Italy’s saldi, keep an eye out for those additional markdowns.
Because there’s something pretty satisfying about coming home from Tuscany with a beautiful Italian designer piece that you paid considerably less for than you expected.
Save This Guide for Your Florence Trip
If you’re planning a Florence trip and luxury shopping is on your itinerary, save this post so you have the bus information, shopping tips and VAT refund process handy.
And if you make a purchase…
I expect to see the Italian designer reveal. 😉
Buon shopping!
XO,
Sondra
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