The Cheapest Cities for Chinese People to Enjoy Glamorous Shopping Weekend Breaks
By Zhang Wei, a frequent traveler and lifestyle writer based in Shanghai, sharing insights on affordable luxury travel and shopping experiences.
As a shopping enthusiast, I’ve always been drawn to the allure of luxury items, international brands, and the experience of discovering new cities through their most glamorous stores. Like many other Chinese travelers, I’ve found that weekend getaways abroad can offer an exciting opportunity to indulge in high-end shopping, often at more affordable prices than back home. After exploring some fantastic destinations, I’d love to share my top picks for the best cities where Chinese people can enjoy glamorous shopping weekend breaks, combining luxury and affordability.
1. Bangkok, Thailand
Bangkok is well-known for its vibrant street markets, but it also has a great selection of upscale shopping malls and designer boutiques. I’ve visited Bangkok several times, and the luxury malls like Siam Paragon and Central Embassy are a shopper’s paradise. They offer everything from international fashion brands to luxury goods like watches, handbags, and cosmetics. With the favorable currency exchange rate, I found that designer items here were often significantly cheaper than in China. Plus, the city’s bustling markets provide an opportunity to pick up beautiful souvenirs and unique pieces to bring home.
2. Seoul, South Korea
Seoul is another favorite shopping destination for Chinese travelers, especially those like me who love beauty products and fashion. Myeongdong is the place to be if you’re looking for the latest Korean cosmetics and skincare products at incredible prices. High-end shopping areas like Apgujeong and Gangnam are home to luxurious department stores and boutique brands. During my last trip, I found Korean fashion labels and cosmetics to be much cheaper than back home, making it a perfect spot for stocking up on beauty products and trendy clothing. And, let’s not forget about the tax refund that tourists can claim, which makes shopping even more affordable!
3. Tokyo, Japan
When I first visited Tokyo, I was amazed by the sheer variety of luxury brands available at more reasonable prices than expected. Areas like Ginza are home to high-end stores selling international luxury brands like Chanel, Louis Vuitton, and Hermes. But what surprised me most was the tax-free shopping for tourists. Japanese department stores such as Isetan and Mitsukoshi offer high-quality items ranging from fashion to homeware, often at prices lower than in China. On top of that, Japan’s renowned attention to detail and customer service make shopping here a truly enjoyable experience. The exchange rate and tax rebates can make even the most luxurious items more affordable.
4. Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
For Chinese shoppers looking for a weekend getaway without breaking the bank, Kuala Lumpur is an underrated gem. The shopping malls, such as Pavilion KL and Suria KLCC, offer a range of luxury goods, international brands, and designer labels at surprisingly affordable prices. I was pleasantly surprised during my visit by the quality and variety of products available, especially in terms of fashion and electronics. The currency exchange rate makes shopping here particularly attractive for Chinese tourists, and you can easily find designer items at lower prices than in China.
5. Dubai, UAE
Dubai is often associated with extreme luxury, but what many don’t realize is that it can also be a cost-effective destination for high-end shopping. Thanks to the tax-free shopping environment, international luxury brands are often cheaper here than in China. The Dubai Mall is a world-renowned shopping destination, featuring everything from haute couture to high-end electronics. During my last visit, I was able to find designer bags and watches at much better prices than expected, making Dubai an excellent option for a glamorous shopping weekend that won’t completely break the bank.
6. Singapore
Singapore may not always be considered a budget-friendly destination, but for luxury shopping, it offers incredible value. Orchard Road is lined with malls that house high-end brands, while The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands offers an unparalleled luxury shopping experience. I particularly enjoyed browsing the flagship stores of top international designers, and I found the prices to be quite competitive, especially during sales events. Additionally, the tax refund scheme for tourists further sweetens the deal, making it an ideal destination for a glamorous shopping spree.
7. Milan, Italy
As a lover of fashion, Milan has always been on my must-visit list, and it did not disappoint. Home to some of the world’s most famous designer brands like Gucci, Prada, and Versace, Milan offers a unique shopping experience that blends high fashion with historic charm. What’s more, during sales seasons, you can find incredible discounts that make luxury shopping much more affordable. Many Chinese tourists, like myself, take advantage of the tax refund system to further reduce the cost of high-end purchases, making Milan a fantastic destination for a glamorous weekend break.
8. Paris, France
It’s no secret that Paris is a dream destination for luxury shopping, but what surprised me was the affordability during the famous sales periods in January and July. French luxury brands, like Chanel, Louis Vuitton, and Dior, are much more affordable in their home country, especially when you factor in the tax-free shopping for tourists. I personally love strolling along the Champs-Élysées and Avenue Montaigne, where you can find flagship stores offering exclusive items that you might not find in China. The combination of iconic fashion, lower prices, and tax refunds make Paris a perfect spot for a luxury shopping weekend.
9. London, UK
Although London can be an expensive city, shopping here is surprisingly affordable for Chinese tourists thanks to VAT refunds and frequent sales at high-end stores. Areas like Bond Street and Knightsbridge are known for their concentration of luxury brands, while department stores like Harrods and Selfridges offer a wide selection of designer goods. During my last trip, I managed to find fantastic deals on British brands, such as Burberry, at prices far below what I would pay in China.
10. Berlin, Germany
Berlin may not be the first city that comes to mind for a luxury shopping spree, but it has become increasingly popular for Chinese travelers seeking affordable high-end goods. Kurfürstendamm is lined with boutiques and department stores that offer luxury brands at competitive prices. In addition to fashion, Berlin is also a great place to shop for luxury watches and other accessories. The tax refund for tourists and lower overall cost of living in Germany make Berlin a surprisingly affordable destination for high-end shopping.
For Chinese shoppers like me, who enjoy combining a weekend break with luxury shopping, there are plenty of affordable destinations around the world that offer high-end goods at more attractive prices than back home. Whether it’s Bangkok’s malls, Tokyo’s tax-free stores, or Milan’s fashion streets, these cities provide not only glamorous shopping experiences but also great value for money. With the right timing and a little planning, a luxury weekend getaway abroad can be both indulgent and budget-friendly.
By Zhang Wei, a frequent traveler and lifestyle writer based in Shanghai, sharing insights on affordable luxury travel and shopping experiences.