This place may not appeal to historians or art lovers, but for dedicated followers of fashion, designer label junkies or anyone who just can't resist a fantastic bargain, it's as exciting as when Columbus pointed at land and said: "Isn't that America over there?" Welcome then, to The Mall, Italy's most exclusive outlet centre. And with Gucci, Ferragamo, Prada, Bottega Veneta, Sergio Rossi, Yves Saint Laurent and more at up to 60% off (and sometimes even cheaper, but more of that later) it is the Holy Grail of designer shopping.

After departing from the pier we will head towards Florence and then south .Our first stop will be at Prada. The Prada outlet is a little off the beaten track but well worth the effort to purchase products from one of Italy's leading stylist for prices up to half off retail price. Very elegant for a factory outlet .. well it is Prada.

We will then head to Dolce Gabbana and Fendi before heading to the mall. Out of the handful of shops running parallel to each other Gucci, Ungaro, Valentino, Bottega Veneta, Sergio Rossi, Yves Saint Laurent, Ermengildo Zegna and, of course, Armani have the most wearable booty. Even if designer labels don't matter to you, it's easy to be seduced by the quality behind the brands. Buttery soft leather jackets, figure skimming tailored suits, and shoes and handbags - there's just so much you want to buy. And don't be fooled into thinking you only need an hour to do the lot. It may be last season's stock, samples and seconds, but browsing is a leisurely pleasure, because for once you can afford the stuff that is usually only seen splashed across celebrity bodies and glossy magazines.