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Christmas sales in Europe. Summer sales: how and when they do it in Europe When summer discounts start in Europe

There is no exact date when Christmas sales 2020 begin in European countries, since not only each country, but also each individual store can set its own date.

The only countries where there are restrictions on sales regulated by law are France and Italy. Christmas sales in Italy start on the first weekend of the first month of the year and last no more than six weeks.

French shopping centers have the right to start offering discounts on the first Wednesday of January, and the duration of the promotion should not exceed four weeks in the capital and six weeks in all other cities. It should be noted that European sales are significantly different from Russian ones: they are “honest” in relation to the buyer, protected by law, that is, if the advertisement says “70% discount,” it means that the product is really discounted by 70% (and not pre-inflated by price, and then sold at the same price). This is probably why European shopping is so popular among Russians.

History of Christmas sales

Christmas sales in Europe date back to the 17th century. It was then that the tradition of holding pre-holiday fairs appeared in Germany, where traders could sell not only food, but also numerous industrial goods. Temporary wooden trading tents-pavilions were built in the main squares of the largest cities; sellers reduced prices to attract the attention of buyers. In the 18th century, the “pre-Christmas fair bustle” annually covered not only the cities of Germany, but also Austria. By the 19th century, the good tradition had spread throughout Europe, and the fame of rich and generous fairs had spread throughout the world, attracting tourists.

Popular Christmas Sale Locations

Christmas sales in Germany

Christmas sales last for one and a half months: from early December to mid-January. And as was the case a couple of centuries ago, sales are only part of the holiday events. The city streets are filled with all kinds of attractions, numerous folk craft workshops come to life, and truly “folk” festivities are organized with the tasting of exclusive Christmas mulled wine. Avid shopaholics and fans of world brands know very well that during pre-New Year discounts you can enjoy not only shopping, but also the whole palette of national German flavor. Cult cities are:

  • Nuremberg;
  • Cologne;
  • Berlin;
  • Munich;
  • Hamburg;
  • and especially Düsseldorf, where you can find all the brands (the main shopping streets are Schadowstrasse and Königsallee).

Christmas sales in Finland

Christmas sales in Finland start on December 27 and continue until the end of January, where you can buy branded cosmetics with a 30-40% discount, ski equipment at half price in shopping centers such as:

  • Iso Omena in Espoo;
  • Kamppi in Helsinki;
  • hypermarket chain Citymarket in many cities of the country;
  • Stockmann department stores throughout Finland.

Christmas sales in Prague

Christmas sales in Prague (in the entire Czech Republic, only the capital organizes massive discount promotions) are held from the beginning of January to the end of February and are not inferior in popularity to sales in Germany. Significant places worth remembering:

  • Wenceslas Square;
  • Old Town Square;
  • Paris street;
  • shopping centers Khodov, Palladium, Kotva, Flora.

Christmas sales in Austria

Austria doesn’t have much sales, but even here you can buy designer items with good discounts in January-February. Experienced shopping tourists recommend the following Viennese mall centers:

  • Ringstrasse street;
  • Stefl department store;
  • pedestrian zone Graben;
  • Kärntnerstrasse and Mariahilferstrasse streets.

Here in Vienna you can visit Europe's largest shoe store Humanik, the H&M and C&A chains.

Christmas sales in England

London opens the sales season on December 27, which lasts for a month and a half. The destination of all shopaholics is the world's largest department store Harrods, Dover Street Market and the most ethnic district of the British capital Soho. In general, England is famous for year-round discount events on branded clothing, accessories, jewelry, and shoes.

Christmas sales in other European cities

Christmas sales in Sweden start on December 26, in Spain on January 7, in Lithuania on December 19, in Poland there is no specific general date, discounts are provided by individual stores whenever they want, sometimes this happens before the holidays, sometimes only in mid-January. By the way, when you are in Spain, you should not ignore the stores of the El Corte Inglés chain, which are perhaps the only ones that do not close for siesta. And then, the discounts here are greater than in many other branded boutiques.

In the cradle of high fashion - France - Christmas sales promise the acquisition of the most exquisite and best goods at reduced prices. World-famous brands, both youth democratic and luxury, are concentrated on the Parisian streets of Rivoli and Faubourg Saint-Honoré, as well as on Avenue Montaigne, in the Saint-Germain quarter and on Boulevard Haussmann. An indispensable point of visit for all shopaholic tourists is the Paris Usines Center Nord outlet near Charles de Gaulle airport.

The capital of world fashion - Milan - will welcome you with exquisite boutiques and Haute couture brands on the streets of the Golden Square or the Milan Triangle: Corso Vittorio Emanuele, Via Montenapoleone, Via Spiga, Via Senato, Via Alessandro Manzoni. Corso Buenos Aires is considered the main shopping street of the capital; Vercelli Street and Duomo Square with the huge Rinascente shopping center will be no less interesting for tourists. Not only the city, but also the suburbs with its vast outlet stores, such as Serravalle, are suitable for exciting shopping.

It is known that Christmas sales in Europe begin with small discounts - from 15–20%, and only in the middle of the sale do they reach their climax - 70% or more. The golden rule for all shopaholics: if you want to have time to buy the product you need (size, color), you should not wait until the end of the sales, since the “hot” product sells out at the very beginning of discount events. Experts also advise that before storming the boutiques, find out your European size and decide on the style, because during the rush there will not be enough time to try it on. Do not forget also that during sales, goods not only from last year’s collections may appear on the shelves, but also with minor factory defects or without labels.

It should be noted that foreigners do not have to pay VAT in a foreign country, therefore they have the right to apply for “Tax Free”. By keeping your receipts, you can receive compensation at the border when leaving the country.

Christmas online sales

Of course, since its inception, online trading could not help but affect such a tradition as Christmas sales. Along with offline boutiques, customers are also pleased with New Year's discounts on numerous websites, starting in December. Although, almost all online stores have a “Sale” or “Liquidation” section, where they display goods from past collections, only one copy remaining, etc.

Christmas sales can be enjoyed at online superstores such as argos.co.uk, or -, which sells everything from toys to furniture, from spoons to bicycles, from watches to outerwear, from computers to flash cards.

Great discounts await visitors to European websites, skupidu.com, otto.de, quelle.de and many others.


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Winter discounts are a great opportunity to cheaply replenish your wardrobe. During this period, in all stores in Europe, from luxury brands to mass markets, prices fall by 50-70%. We will tell you when discounts start in each country, share life hacks and useful addresses that will help you buy the things you like even cheaper.

London, December 26 - end of January

In England, winter discounts begin the day after Christmas - December 26 or a day later. There is no official end date for the discounts - they last four weeks and end at the end of January. The main streets for shopping are Oxford Street, Regent Street and Bond Street. Independent fashion shops are concentrated on Carnaby Street. St Martin's Courtyard in Covent Garden is becoming increasingly popular. In the west of the city there are the largest malls in Europe - Westfield London and Westfield Stratford with 250 shops and 50 restaurants.

From

Paris, January 10 - February 20, 2018

In Paris there are many shops and boutiques for every taste and budget, from Hermes, Christian Louboutin, Louis Vuitton to inexpensive mass market. Luxury brand boutiques are located on the Champs Elysees, Place Vendôme, Saint-Germain-des-Prés and Faubourg Saint-Honoré. Shops with more affordable prices are located on Boulevard Haussmann, Grand Boulevard and Les Halles. The centers of youth fashion are Rivoli Street and the Marais district.

Return flights in January: from

Milan, January 5 - March 6, 2018

Milan, the capital of high fashion in Italy, is famous for its huge discounts on luxury brands, whose stores are located in the Vittorio Emanuele Gallery and the surrounding streets: Via Montenapoleone, Via della Spiga, Via Sant Andrea. Another shopping center, with more affordable prices, is located in the Duomo area: Corso Venice, Corso Buenos Aires. Corso di Porta Ticinese is full of independent fashion boutiques and young designers.

Return flights in January: from

Brussels, 3 - 31 January 2018

Brussels has boutiques of famous brands from Chanel and Louis Vuitton to Max Mara, as well as hundreds of small boutiques: from vintage to innovative design. Most shops are concentrated on Avenue Louise and Waterloo Boulevard. Rue Antoine-Densart is home to independent fashion shops and Belgian designers. The largest mall in Brussels is City2 on Rue Neuve, where 104 stores are collected under one roof. Most of the souvenir and homeware boutiques are located in the Royal Galleries of Saint-Hubert, Brussels' oldest and most beautiful shopping arcade, built in 1874.

Return flights in January: from

Madrid, January 7 - March 7, 2018

Madrid's style is difficult to define - it is classic, bright alternative fashion, and vintage. The best boutiques are located on the “Golden Mile” - this is the name of the streets of the Salamanca district with boutiques of branded shoes and clothing and jewelry stores. The biggest discounts are usually from Spanish brands: Massimo Dutti, Zara, Mango, Bershka, Stradivarius. Independent fashion shops are located on Fuencarral Street, Spanish designers are located in the Cuatro Caminos district. Youth fashion is in the Argüelles area, the best shoe stores are in Gran Via.

Return flights in January: from

Berlin, end of January - end of February

Berlin is the informal fashion capital of Europe. In addition to well-known brands, you will find here hundreds of boutiques of young designers from all over the world. Since 2005, sales procedures have not been regulated in Germany and each store decides this issue on its own. The biggest discounts typically start at the end of January and last less than a month. The main streets for shopping: Kurfürstendamm, Breitscheidplatz, Ratheunaplatz, they are full of luxury shops (Yves Saint Laurent, Valentino) and famous brands (Max Mara, Zara). In the east of Berlin is Friedrichstrasse with boutiques and the huge center of Galeries Lafayette. Most of the designer boutiques and independent fashion stores are located in Quartier 207 and Schönhauser Allee.

Return flights in January: from

Lisbon, January 7 - February 28, 2018

In Lisbon you will find most of the famous brands, vintage shops and the cheapest jewelry in Europe. Most brand boutiques and jewelry stores are concentrated in the Chiado area, and shops of Portuguese designers are in the historical center, in Baixa. You will find shops of democratic brands in the El Corte Inglés, Centro Vasco da Gama and Centro Colombo malls. The latter is one of the largest in Europe, with 440 stores ranging from designer brands to affordable brands.

Return flights in January: from

, January 7 - early March 2018

Barcelona is famous not only for its huge selection of brands, but also for much lower prices than in London and Paris. We recommend buying the Guia de Compres (Barcelona shopping guide), where there are about 500 shops arranged alphabetically and thematically. Another convenient innovation in Barcelona is the Barcelona Shopping Line bus route. A one-day ticket costs 10 euros, the number of trips is unlimited. This five-kilometer route runs along the main shopping streets of Barcelona (Port Vell - Ramblas - Ribera - Barri Gotic - Placa de Catalunya - Passeig de Gracia - Rambla de Catalunya), where most of the city's shops are located.

The shops of Barcelona's most unusual designers are concentrated on Riera Baixa and in the Eixample district next to the Sagrada Familia.

Return flights in January: from

Copenhagen, end of December - end of February

In the Danish capital, stores are allowed to start sales from December 27 to early January, there are no exact dates. Copenhagen, in addition to well-known brands, is famous for its stores of young Scandinavian designers, appliances and household goods. The longest shopping street in Europe is located in Copenhagen - the pedestrian zone Strøget, where you will find hundreds of shops - from Prada and Cerutti to Ecco and Diesel. The huge mall Shop du Nord sells clothing, appliances and household goods at low prices. The more expensive Illium shopping center houses Danish designers and brand boutiques. In the trendy Vesterbro district, Designer Zoo sells the finest Danish knitwear, jewelry and porcelain. Two huge outlets - Fields and Premier - are located in the suburbs of Copenhagen.

Return flights in January: from

* Flight prices are indicated at the time of writing. The cost indicated in the material and the final price may vary.

When the long New Year holidays end in Russia, the sales season begins in Europe.

The end of January and the beginning of February is the time to buy old “wants”: a Gucci trench coat, Dolce boots and a Prada bag at a good discount. Read which countries have the best sales, when and for what goods to go there, and how much money to take with you. Spoiler - take everything plus a credit card :)

Italy

When the facades of Italian stores are decorated with bright “scondi” inscriptions, it’s time to buy things at discounts. At the start of sales, the discount size is no more than 10-15%, but by the end of the promotion you can buy things at a discount of up to 50%. True, until then all common sizes usually run out. On average, shopping centers reduce prices by 20-30%. Don't expect huge discounts.

Remember. The assortment is replenished throughout the duration of the promotion. On the first day of the sale, no one puts out all the models. As a rule, new items appear once a week.

When to fly: discounts start on the first Saturday of the new year. In 2019 - January 5. The sale period lasts 60 days or until items are sold out. If no one buys things during the discounts, then they are sent to stock stores.

Where to run: Rome, Milan, Rimini, Venice, Naples.

In Rimini they buy winter and demi-season outerwear, leather jackets, sheepskin coats and fur coats. In Rome, the main shops are concentrated in Piazza di Spagna and Via Condotti. In Milan - in the so-called “fashion triangle”: between Montenapoleone, Andrea, Gesu and Della Spiga streets. In Venice you can shop in Piazza San Marco. If you're visiting Naples, head to Piazza Amadeo, Piazza dei Martiri and the adjacent streets Calabritto and Via dei Mille.

All stores in Italy are open from 9-10 am to 19-20 pm with a break from 12.30 to 15.30. Most close on Sunday and Monday, except for large shopping centers.

Which brands to buy:

  • Prada Milano;
  • Gucci;
  • Dolce
  • Diesel;
  • Emporio Armani;
  • Versace;
  • Moschino;
  • United Colors Of Benetton.

Spain

Sales in Spanish stores are indicated by the words REBAJAS (discounts) or OFERTA (special offer) on the windows. During discounts, shopping centers and large stores even sacrifice siesta. For several years now, special buses have been running around Barcelona on a special shopping route, where you can buy things with discounts of up to 90%. During the winter sale, pay attention to Spanish brands - they have the biggest discounts. Please note that items purchased on sale cannot be exchanged.


When to fly: winter discounts start on December 25, when prices for Christmas tree decorations and New Year's gifts collapse. The sale of clothes and shoes begins on January 7th. Discounts last until the end of March. Initially, the price is reduced by 20%, gradually the discount reaches 70%.

Where to run: Barcelona, ​​Canary Islands.

The Canaries are a free trade zone, so prices here are lower than elsewhere in Europe. If you are in Tenerife, set aside a couple of days to visit the Centro Comersial Safari shopping center with mass market brands, Siam Mall and Plaza del Duque with luxury brands in Costa Adeje.

You won't have to look for discounts for long in Barcelona. Head to Passeig de Gracia - there is a 5 km zone with shops for every taste. To avoid getting lost among shopping centers and shops, buy the Guia de Compres directory - it contains the names and addresses of 450 retail outlets in the city and suburbs. Take the shopping bus from the Old Port area. Runs every 15 minutes from 7.30 to 21.45 on weekdays and from 9.30 to 21.20 on weekends.

The most famous malls outside the city are L`illa Diagonal, Pedralbes, Bulevard Rosa, El Triangle, Maremagnum, El Corte Ingles, Glories, Diagonal Mar. And don't forget about the Outlet Village and La Roca Village - they sell mass-market and luxury brands with discounts of up to 70% from the original price.

Which brands to buy:

  • Desigual;
  • Loewe;
  • Adolfo Domínguez;
  • ZARA;
  • Bimba & Lola;
  • Skunkfunk;
  • Pedro del Hierro;
  • Lois;
  • Uterque;
  • Eseoese;
  • El Ganso.

Germany

In Germany, during the discount period, it is good to buy high-quality clothes, shoes, equipment, electronics, watches and books (in case you need books in German). The discounts here are substantial - they start from 30% and reach 80% of the initial price. The beauty of German sales is that they are of interest only to tourists - local residents are quite cool about discounts and do not create a stir around crossed out price tags.


When to fly: as soon as you get up from the New Year's table. In Germany, sales start earlier than everyone else, at the beginning of December. Lasts until January 30, so you still have a chance to buy your Wishlist at super prices.

Where to run: Berlin, Munich.

Start from the capital - plan your route around Berlin via Friedrichstrasse. On the main tourist street there is a large concentration of shops and large shopping centers with luxury brands and affordable brands. If that's not enough for you, head to the outlet stores. Past collections are sold there, but at the lowest prices.

The most interesting outlets in Berlin:

  1. Designer Outlet Berlin is located outside the city; you need to go there by regional train RE4 in the direction of Rathenow to the Elstal stop. There are about 100 retail outlets with famous brands.
  2. Within the city limits there is a shoe outlet called Görtz Outlet Store. Address: Alt-Mahlsdorf 44, 12623 Berlin. You can get there by tram number 62 from the Alt-Mahlsdorf stop.
  3. Marc Cain Factory Outlet is a designer outlet of a German brand of women's clothing, shoes and accessories. If you are looking for something unusual and authentic, be sure to check it out. Moreover, the store is located in Berlin on Oudenarderstraße 16 - you can get there by tram.

Simpler clothing and shoes are sold in Berlin at outlets on Kurfurstendamm. In Munich, you should definitely walk along Maximilianstrasse - there are luxury shops.

Which brands to buy:

  • Hugo Boss;
  • Puma;
  • Adidas;
  • Marc O'Polo;
  • Oliver;
  • Escada;
  • Joop!

France

Perfumes, cosmetics, clothing and accessories from famous brands - all this must be bought in France during the sale. Discounts start from 20-30% and reach 50 at the end of the promotion. Some stores are opening a second wave of sales and selling items at a discount of up to 70%. During sales, go to outlets - there you can grab items from famous brands for almost nothing. Just keep in mind that during the winter holidays it will definitely be crowded!


When to fly: In Nice, discounts begin immediately after the New Year - January 2. In Paris they start in the middle of the month. The sales season lasts until mid-February.

Where to run: Paris, Nice.

The largest Parisian outlets:

  1. La Vallee Village -90 stores of luxury and mass brands, mostly items from past collections and non-traditional sizes (more than Russian 48). Located 50 km from Paris near Disneyland. Address: Cours de Garonne/3, Serris. You can get there by bus 8 and 19, high-speed train (take line 4 and get off at the Serris-Montevrain stop).
  2. Marques Avenue Troyes or Marque Street - 200 stores and 400 brands of clothing, cosmetics, perfumes, decor, furniture. There is a free wine tasting nearby - another reason to visit the outlet. Address: Saint-Julien-les-Villas 114. You can get there by bus from the Gare d’Est stop to the city of Troyes, where you change to a direct minibus to Marques Avenue.
  3. Usines Center Nord is a shopping center with 120 stores and 500 clothing brands. There are also cafes, restaurants, and beauty salons inside. It is located right next to the airport - you can set aside the last day of your vacation for it. Address: de la Plaine de France 134. You can take the express train to Parc de Exposition Villepinte, change to bus 640 and go to Center commercial station.

In Nice you can do some good shopping right in the city center. The main shopping street is Avenue Jean Madesin. Check out the Galeries Lafayette shopping centers (there is an additional 10% discount for tourists), Center commercial Nice Etoile (more than 100 stores), Sephora cosmetic supermarket, Go Sport sports store. On the avenue there are mainly shops in the mid-price segment. If you're looking for luxury, head to Rue Paradis, Avenue Verdun and Avenue Sweden. There are Chanel, Armani, Hermes, and Escada boutiques here.

Which brands to buy:

  • Chanel;
  • Dior;
  • Lacoste;
  • Kenzo;
  • Nina Ricci;
  • Paco Rabanne;
  • Yves Saint Laurent.

Great Britain

If you are not used to fighting for the last handbag at a discount, then you will enjoy shopping in Britain: sales here are held in a dignified manner. Local residents do not run around the shops, buying everything, but calmly and thoughtfully choose suitable models. The only competition you will have are tourists like you - after all, in England during winter sales, discounts reach 50% and shops are attacked by crowds of visitors.


When to fly: Discounts will officially start in stores on December 26th. Lasts until the end of January and reaches 70%.

Where to run: London.

To shop well, you don't even have to leave the city. Most of the shopping centers and shops worth visiting are located on Oxford Street. Take a look at the Selfridges department store with luxury brands of clothing, cosmetics, and jewelry. Debenhams, London's oldest department store, sells designer items at affordable prices. Here you can buy women's and men's clothing, shoes, children's toys, electronics, and household goods. There is also a bridal department with white dresses and accessories.

Harrods, Liberty, Harvey Nichols, John Lewis - stores with exclusive brands. TopShop Oxford Circus and Urban Outfitters offer high-quality inexpensive youth clothing.

Which brands to buy:

  • Aftershock
  • Alexander Mcqueen;
  • Anthony
  • Issa;
  • Fred Perry;
  • Topshop.

Czech

If you want to save more, choose the Czech Republic. The discounts here are as fair as in Germany or Italy, and the prices for tours are much lower. You will save not only on shopping, but also on travel.

Of course, there are fewer outlets and shops in Prague than in Berlin or Paris, but for some it is even more convenient - you can buy everything in one large shopping center or walking along a shopping street.

When to fly: even before December 25 - at this time pre-Christmas sales start. The second wave of even greater discounts begins in mid-January and continues until the end of February.

Where to run: Prague

Shopping centers:

The best shops in Prague are located on Parizska and Na Prikope streets. During the sales season, you can go to any store - there will definitely be discounts. There are also large shopping centers in Prague:

  • Palladium - 200 stores of famous European brands, from affordable H&M to luxury Lacoste.
  • Kotva - offers an excellent selection of leather goods and jewelry.
  • Cerna ruze is a small shopping center in a historical building with fifty shops.
  • Fashion Arena is a large multi-brand outlet in Prague 10. During the sales season, prices here are 90% lower than in brand stores.

What to buy:

  • Any European clothes and shoes: Dior, Hugo Boss, Louis Vuitton, Hermes, Moschino, Swarovski, Armani, Versace.
  • Jewelry from the Lapiz Diamond factory.
  • Jewelry Yablonex.
  • Manufaktura skincare products.

Have you been to Christmas sales in Europe? Show off your catch in our groups

By investing in obtaining a residence permit or citizenship in Europe, you receive one pleasant bonus. Or rather, it is the ladies who receive it – the female investors themselves or the investors’ spouses.

We are talking about the opportunity to attend various sales in European countries at any time. You will not need any visas or special invitations. Knowing when there are sales in Europe, you simply choose the right day and go shopping.

The main thing is to know when and where exactly to go. We will answer this question in our review today.

How are sales in Europe different from those in Moscow?

Ladies who have visited sales in Europe more than once know very well that they differ significantly from Moscow sales. In Moscow, prices for branded items are so high that even a 50% discount does not make them more attractive. Whatever one may say, it’s expensive.

In European stores and boutiques, goods are most often sold at prices recommended by the brand itself. And if the store belongs to the brand itself, you make a purchase at the lowest price. During sales, this price becomes even lower - discounts in Europe can reach 70-80%. Therefore, a comparison with shopping in Moscow boutiques here, to put it mildly, is not appropriate.

Branded goods in European boutiques can be 1.5-2 (or even more!) times cheaper.

When are the sales in Europe?

Sales seasons in Europe are divided into summer and winter. They come at a time when stores need to get rid of last season's products. Each country has its own traditions and characteristics.

When are the sales in Germany?

Traditional summer sales (sommerschlussverkauf) here start earlier than in other countries - at the end of May. Peak discounts occur between July 25 and August 7. This is the time of official sales, they take place everywhere and apply to any product. If the item you need is in the store until the end of August, you can get it at a discount... 90%.

In winter, “sales” begin at the end of November, however, discounts during this period do not exceed 20% and concern mainly affordable brands. The most fruitful time for shopping in Germany is the first half of February. On the last Monday of January, winterschlussverkauf starts across the country, which lasts 2 weeks. The final sale is in mid-February.

Advantages:

  • Huge selection of branded items
  • everything is relatively inexpensive
  • sales start earlier than in all of Europe

When are the sales in Spain?

In this country, each city starts sales at different times. Discounts start in Barcelona - you need to go here on June 1st. And Madrid joins the sales only from the third week of June. The resorts of the Cote d'Azur take up the baton later: Nice, Cannes, Saint-Tropez.

But for winter sales it is best to go to the capital of the country. Here it all starts right on January 1, and ends right at the beginning of March. In other regions, the deadlines are shifted by 1-2 weeks. But we need to focus on the first weekend of January. Sales also end differently everywhere: in Valencia - in mid-March, in Vigo - in early April.

Advantages:

  • Barcelona is one of the world's top fashion centers
  • longer working hours for stores – until 22:00
  • in provincial cities the discounts are higher

When are the UK sales?

The British sales boom begins on the 20th of June and lasts for a month. It is noteworthy that there are fewer people in London at this time, as it is holiday time at the same time.

For winter sales in the UK there is a special date and even time: December 26, 9:00. They also last exactly a month. The discounts are growing every week and reach 70% by the end. You should not only arrive in London at the very beginning of the sale, but also arrive at the store by 9:00. There are also preliminary sales - on the 10th of December. But their duration is only 2-3 days.

Advantages:

  • All the world's top brands are represented
  • largest shopping centers where you can combine accommodation with shopping
  • the most extravagant exclusive items

When are the sales in France?

In Paris, shopping lovers begin to catch their luck, as in London, on the 20th of June. The duration of the sales is also 1 month. However, in other cities the dates may be slightly shifted in one direction or another.

In winter, there is no general exact date for the start of the discount period. You need to arrive in Paris by the second Wednesday of January. Sales last here until mid-February. But in Nice you can treat yourself to new things immediately after the New Year - from January 2. Typically, stores lower prices twice: first by 20%, then by 50%. But in some stores there is also a third wave - by the end you can find the coveted 70%.

Advantages:

  • Paris is the second most visited fashion capital of the world
  • You can use the VAT refund service at customs
  • high discounts on exclusive products

When are the sales in Italy?

Italian sales are rightfully considered the most visited in Europe. This is especially true for Milan, a world leader in fashion. On the first Saturday or first Monday of July, shopping lovers from all over the world come here. Sale dates in Milan, as well as throughout the country, are limited to 60 days. Compliance with deadlines is strictly regulated by law.

In winter, the sales season in Italy starts in January - on the first Saturday. At the beginning, discounts reach 30% and then increase. Moreover, not all goods are put up for sale at once. Stores divide their assortment into parts and update it every week. This gives buyers additional options.

Advantages:

  • Milan has the best selection of designer fashion in the world
  • weekly update of the assortment of discounted products
  • the lowest prices for items from leading Italian brands

When are the sales in the Czech Republic?

In Prague, sales happen not two, but three times a year. They last on average 1.5 months, but no single start and end dates have been established. Summer starts in early July and ends in mid-August. Winter ones last from mid-December to the end of January. And there are also spring sales - from early April to mid-May.

Prague shops and boutiques put up for sale, in principle, the same branded items as the capitals of world fashion. At the same time, prices are not inflated, as in Moscow, and the discounts are a real 30-50-70%. You can also find exclusive designer goods, but it is precisely by this indicator that Prague loses to Milan, Barcelona, ​​and London.

Advantages:

  • presence of all the world's leading brands
  • more comfortable shopping due to fewer customers
  • additional sales season - in spring

When are the sales in Greece?

In this country, as in Italy, trade violations during discount periods are carefully monitored. Therefore, all sales start and end at the same time - so that sellers work under equal conditions. You can come to Athens for summer discounts on the first Saturday of July - it will last until the last Sunday of August. Standard discounts are 50-60%, which makes shopping in Greece during the sales season extremely profitable.

Winter discounts start on the first Saturday in January and last until the last Sunday in February. If summer sales are “adjusted” to the holiday season, and the stores are not crowded at this time, then shopping in winter is quite comfortable.

Advantages:

  • high level of standard discounts
  • a small number of buyers in the winter season
  • inexpensive items from local, well-established brands

Sale dates in Europe

You can start shopping for sales right now, because, by and large, there are only a few days left before the start of the season. Summer sales in Europe can be visited from June 1st. As for other countries, you should focus on the following dates.

To better navigate which shopping centers you can visit on your own, read our review.

Store opening hours

Shopping rules in Europe

  • Visit stores 1-2 days before sales start. Choose the things you like, decide on the sizes, remember where everything is
  • On the first day it is better to be in time for the opening itself. On other days, spend your shopping in the morning
  • It is better to go to a sale dressed simply and comfortably. Please note that clothes and shoes will have to be removed many times to try on things.
  • To figure out which wave of discounts is best to get into, consider how exclusive the item is and how rare its size is.
  • During sales, some stores may refuse to accept an item back if you have already purchased it. Check this detail with the sellers
  • It is best to use the services of professional stylists. They will guide you to the most attractive places and select a route to suit your needs.

Now you know when there are discounts in stores in Europe, and you can plan your summer and winter holidays taking into account the sales.

Free shopping is, of course, not the main, but important, advantage of obtaining a residence permit or citizenship in the EU.

By turning to our company’s specialists for help, you receive a full package of services and comprehensive support at all stages.

Sales calendar in Europe on “Subtleties of Tourism”

The main shopping destination of the entire planet, Europe welcomes fans of fashion trends with the shopping streets of Paris, the large-scale outlets of Milan and the sales rush of Spain. Twice a year, in winter and summer, here you can thoroughly and practically without loss to your wallet replenish your wardrobe with discounts of up to 70% - and not just any consumer goods, but high-quality clothes from the world's leading fashion houses. Russian tourists, of course, could not miss such a celebration of life (especially considering the unhealthy prices in Moscow and St. Petersburg boutiques) - and shopping tours for sales in Europe can easily compete in popularity with the famous European excursion or seaside holiday. In general, sales in the Old World are held in January-February and July-August, but each country has its own peculiarities of holding them, as well as useful features, knowing which you can save a lot on already low prices. We will share some of them.

Italy

The main shopping destination in Europe, Italy has the best boutiques with big names on the façade, impeccable style, sophistication and the unchanging femininity of the collections, which no one, even the most advanced unisex, can shake. Italian clothing is synonymous with quality: the best fabrics, perfect fit and almost manic attention to detail.

The winter season of Italian sales begins on the first Saturday or first Monday of January - each region of Italy determines the exact dates independently. The sales period is fixed - exactly 60 days. True, here too Italy exhibits its usual sunny softness: in the regions of Friuli-Venezia Giulia and Campania, for example, sales are delayed until March 31, and in Trento, retail stores have the right to independently set the date of sales - the main thing is that their duration did not exceed 60 days.

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Summer sales in Italy also start on the first Saturday or first Monday of July, after which a real feast of spending awaits fashionistas and fashionistas for 60 days.

There is no single schedule of sales, as in Italy, in Spain - each region starts them based on its own considerations.

Spain

Spain is equally relaxed and happy shopping at home under the bright sun and accompanied by wine and gastronomic breaks, as well as carefree lying on the Mediterranean beaches. Spanish fashion houses are not as pompous and upscale as Italian or French ones, but they delight the shopaholic with comfortable clothes made from natural fabrics, suitable for daily wear.

There is no single schedule of sales, as in Italy, in Spain - each region starts them based on its own considerations. The flagship of winter sales is usually Madrid: the Spanish capital begins selling out the current collection on January 1st. From the first weekend of January, most Spanish provinces join it. But winter sales end differently: Madrid - in early March, Valencia - in mid-March, and Galicia - even in early April.

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Summer sales in Spain begin the earliest in Barcelona - already on June 1st. From the third week of June, Madrid joins the rush, and the resort islands wait until the last minute: discounts begin here only in July.

The duration of the sales is 3 months, and the discounts are constantly increasing: from the initial 15% to the final 70%. However, in this case, unfortunately, there are no more interesting things of popular sizes left.

Sales in Paris begin on the second Wednesday of January and continue until mid-February.

France

Despite the age-old title of trendsetter, France is in no hurry to please shopaholics with large-scale discounts. “Buy French” is offered at normal prices, as they say, with an emphasis on bontonness and quality. Sales here are quite modest - they last about a month, and although prices fall, they are far from the Italian or Spanish revelry.

Winter sales in France start at the very beginning of January - the exact dates depend on the region. Thus, Nice invites buyers to low prices starting January 2, and the sale will end in a month, at the beginning of February. Sales in Paris begin on the second Wednesday of January and continue until mid-February. The first “reset” of prices reaches 20%, then another one follows - up to 50%, and the third - up to 70-80% - is, alas, not applied everywhere.

Summer sales in France begin on the twentieth of June and last until the end of July. Their start is also unified for the entire country, but some regions are slightly ahead or, conversely, slightly late in relation to the official deadlines.

In Germany, winter sales begin long before the European ones.

Germany

Shopping in Germany is a reflection of the national character: good quality and quality are most valued, sometimes giving way to style, and the main thing in sales remains the notorious order. Here you can buy high-quality clothes and shoes, leather goods, watches and electronics. Discounts are quite moderate: 70% cannot be found everywhere, usually the matter is limited to 40-50%. But sales begin long before the pan-European ones.

The winter sales season in Germany begins on the tenth of December - officially two weeks before Christmas and continues until the end of January. In summer, store windows begin to lure customers with discounts from the end of June, and the season reaches its maximum at the end of August.

Great Britain

Shopping in the UK is like the monarchy itself: sedate, leisurely and with dignity. It is not customary here to burst into a shopping center on the first day of sales like a crusader, sweeping away everything in your path and dragging it to the checkout: the British will apologize twenty times for slightly touching you with their elbow, and then turn the conversation to the annoying weather. However, this, of course, does not at all cancel out pleasant discounts and productive shopping trips.

Winter sales in the United Kingdom start with British punctuality: at 9 am on December 26th. They continue until the beginning of the last week of January. Discounts progress: from the initial 30% to the final 70%, but large discounts are set on expensive goods from the very beginning - it makes sense to come early to the opening of the store.

By the way, in the UK they are also holding a “test” sale - pre-Christmas discounts last only a couple of days on the tenth day of December.

Summer discounts in the UK start on the twentieth of June and also last for one month. Considering that July is the traditional month of holidays in the Kingdom, and Londoners are eager to get outdoors, this is a great way to shop, if not half-empty, then at least not completely packed with customers.

Did you know that there are sales in online stores too. Find out how from “The Subtleties of Tourism” right from home.

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