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Milan is the birthplace of many of the world's most celebrated brands and high-ticket retail establishments: Prada, Versace, and Armani all call Milan home. The city has produced some of the industry's biggest talents, and reigns as one of the most important fashion capitals in the world. "Fashion tourists" come from cities like Shanghai, Moscow, and Tokyo to shop here.
Weekly open markets selling fruits and vegetables—and a great deal more—are still a regular sight in Milan. Many also sell clothing and shoes.
The Monday- and Thursday-morning markets here cater to the wealthy residents of the central Brera neighborhood. In addition to food stands where you can get cheese, roast chicken, and dried beans and fruits, there are several clothing and shoe stalls that are important stops for some of Milan's most elegant women.
Bargains in apparel—though not designer brands—and household goods can be found at this huge market all day on Saturday and from about 8:30 to 1 on Tuesday. The stalls to look for are at the Piazza Sant'Agostino end of the market. It's very crowded and demanding—watch out for pickpockets.
