A new study looks at the best destinations around the world for retail therapy. With Tokyo, London, Mumbai and Dubai ranking as the ultimate shopping hotspots.
The study looks at factors such as number of stores and malls, but also the overall experience—including local dining, cultural attractions, and even safety scores.
With a 156% increase in searches for ‘shopping cities’ as well as an increase in those searching ‘best cities for shopping’ in the last 12 months, retail, or shopping tourism is fast becoming a popular travel trend – especially in the lead up to winter sales and Christmas.
For those looking for unique cultural experiences, luxury goods and different stores to try, the travel experts at Away Holidays have pulled together a list of the must-visit cities for shopping lovers looking at factors such as number of stores and malls, dining options, cultural attractions, and safety scores.
Top 20 shopping hotspots
| Rank | City | Country |
| 1 | Tokyo | Japan |
| 2 | London | United Kingdom |
| 3 | Mumbai | India |
| 4 | Dubai | United Arab Emirates |
| 5 | Istanbul | Türkiye |
| 6 | Rome | Italy |
| 7 | Bangkok | Thailand |
| 8 | Seoul | South Korea |
| 9 | São Paulo | Brazil |
| 10 | Singapore | Singapore |
| 11 | Abu Dhabi | United Arab Emirates |
| 12 | Taipei | Taiwan |
| 12 | Hong Kong | Hong Kong (China) |
| 14 | Lisbon | Portugal |
| 15 | Buenos Aires | Argentina |
| 16 | Accra | Ghana |
| 17 | Berlin | Germany |
| 18 | Paris | France |
| 19 | Osaka | Japan |
| 20 | Madrid | Spain |
Renowned for its diverse districts, Tokyo tops the list with over 270 shopping malls and 467 stores. Shoppers can experience everything from luxury brands in Ginza to unique youth fashion in Shibuya and Harajuku, while enjoying world-class dining and unique experiences like traditional gift-wrapping at Mitsukoshi department store.
With 52 shopping malls and 765 stores, London offers everything from luxury boutiques on Bond Street to eclectic markets like Camden and Borough. Historic landmarks like Selfridges and Fortnum & Mason make shopping in the UK’s capital a blend of tradition and high fashion.
A cultural and shopping haven, Mumbai blends high-end malls with vibrant street markets, visitors can barter for traditional attire and jewellery with must-visit spots like High Street Phoenix and the famous Crawford Market.
Dubai is synonymous with luxury shopping. With the world’s largest mall, The Dubai Mall, and its famous Gold Souk, the city is a paradise for both high-end shoppers and lovers of traditional Middle Eastern crafts.
Combining Eastern charm with Western convenience, Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar and modern malls like Istinye Park offer something for every type of shopper, all in a city steeped in history.
Gianni Leone, Senior Business Development Director Hotels & Ground Products from Away Holidays adds “For those looking for amazing destinations where they can find fantastic food, retail therapy and luxury accommodation, all of the top cities have so much to offer. Whether you’re wanting to explore local markets or wander through massive malls, these destinations offer truly unique shopping adventures.”