Don't want to be superficial, but may be somebody knows, is there anyway to get to Prada, Gucci & D&G outlets near Florence without car. Maybe some agency provide this kind of service <BR>Thanks

I did a text search under "Prada" try <BR>www.torben.com or www.dolcevita.it/outlets/outlets2.html <BR>I too am interested in visiting these stores on a Monday..hope they are open!

I have just emailed Hotel Casci (we are staying there in June) to ask if they know of any organised tours to these type of outlets. Will let you know asap. <BR>Montevarchi which is near both Gucci and Prada outlets is about 45 minutes from Florence..too expensive for a taxi..but maybe a bus to Montevarchi then a taxi.. the addresses for both places is on the torben site.

We may visit there LATER THIS WEEK....and I'll report back when I return! We will have a car, however, and our first nights we're staying in Chiusi which is supposedly not far...

There are agencies which handle Japanese tourist groups but it might be difficult to get on one of their buses. Second, groups often have to wait their turn if, when they arrive, other groups are inside. "Private" parties have no hold ups in this respect. If you are travelling with a friend/s the cost of the hire of a car at say weekend rates will not be too exhorbitant if you consider the savings you can make if you are going on a serious shopping trip and gives you the chance to make worthwhile detours etc. <BR>The Prada outlet is beyond Montevarchi at a place called Levane. The Gucci and D & G outlets are much nearer to Florence near a town called Rignano. Very near the D & G outlet, the Prada Group is going to open a new outlet which I understand will sell Fendi and Celine. <BR>Feel free to e-mail me direct for precise driving instructions.

Av, try www.christinastour.com she does tours to the outlet centre from Florence. Prices range from 1 person to $79, 2 person $69, 3 person $59 each return trip and she will come in and help you if you need her. <BR>She's been helpful to me personally answering outlet questions, I'd use her but we have wheels. <BR>Happy shopping!

Um.... you will pay all that money to go to the outlets to save money? Doesn't that completely defeat the purpose?

I contacted Cristine, but she is all booked for May. We are staying in Casci, if their tourist desk will help with that trip, I will post information

If Christina is booked, she will still take the time to tell you how to get to the outlets and which outlets are nearby. <BR>She is wonderful and has helped me with questions on Florence. I'd use her in a heartbeat but she wasn't available for what we needed. But if I go to FLorene again, I'd plan my trip around getting Christina to do a shopping tour for me!