I Gigli

The I Gigli shopping center is one of the largest and most popular shopping complexes not only near Florence but in the entire Tuscany region. Located in the suburbs, it attracts both tourists and locals with its vast selection of shops and entertainment. The name “I Gigli,” which translates to “The Lilies,” refers to the heraldic symbol of Florence, emphasizing its close connection to the cultural capital of Italy.

In its structure, I Gigli is a modern European-style mall. It houses over 130 stores under one roof, including famous international brands like Apple, Zara, and H&M, as well as authentic Italian labels. Besides clothing and accessory boutiques, you'll find electronics and home goods hypermarkets, and a large grocery supermarket. Spacious galleries and numerous cafes and restaurants in the food court create a comfortable atmosphere for a full day of shopping.

Beyond shopping, I Gigli offers many additional services for visitors' convenience. There are play areas for families with children and a spacious free parking lot for those arriving by car. Thanks to convenient transport links, including special buses from central Florence, reaching the shopping center is easy. This makes I Gigli not just a place to buy things, but a true center for leisure and recreation where you can experience the modern Tuscan lifestyle.

To clarify opening hours, check for specific brand availability, or ask any other questions, you can contact the shopping center's administration. All necessary contact details, including the phone number and official website, are provided below.

The main reason people visit I Gigli is, of course, the diverse shopping experience. The center features a huge selection of stores where you can find everything from fashion clothing, shoes, and accessories to cosmetics, modern electronics, and home goods. Year-round discounts make visiting particularly attractive. Throughout the year, many items can be purchased at 30–50% off, and during seasonal sales, discounts can reach an impressive 70%. It’s a great chance to update your wardrobe and buy high-quality items at great prices.

When shopping gets tiring, you can take a break at the spacious food court. Here, visitors will find restaurants and cafes offering both traditional Italian cuisine and popular international treats. It’s the perfect place to refuel with pizza, pasta, or just enjoy a cup of aromatic coffee. For families with children, I Gigli provides special playgrounds and relaxation areas where little ones can have fun while adults take a break.

A visit to I Gigli is about more than just shopping; it’s a complete leisure experience. The shopping center regularly hosts various events, including themed concerts, prize draws, and even autograph sessions with celebrities. Such events make a visit to I Gigli interesting and memorable, turning a routine shopping trip into a small adventure on the outskirts of Florence.

The I Gigli shopping center is located about 10 kilometers from the historical center of Florence, making it easily accessible for visitors. The simplest way to get here is by car. The drive from the city center takes about 20–30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. For drivers' convenience, a large free parking lot is provided at the complex, so you don't have to worry about finding a spot for your car.

For those who prefer public transport, there is a convenient option: a dedicated shuttle bus. It departs from the bus station at Piazzale Montelungo, which is located next to the Santa Maria Novella central railway station. Buses run daily, including weekends, and the one-way trip takes about 30–40 minutes. This is a great way to reach the destination directly without any transfers or hassle.

Another convenient method is taking a taxi. This option is especially suitable for those traveling with family, small children, or planning a major shopping spree. A taxi ride from the center of Florence will be quick and comfortable, allowing you to avoid public transport schedules. You can also order a car directly from the shopping center through the information point.

The I Gigli shopping center has a rich history reflecting changes in Italy's shopping culture. It opened on May 29, 1997, and was considered one of the largest shopping complexes in the country at the time. Its arrival in the Florence suburb of Campi Bisenzio was a landmark event, as it was designed as a modern alternative to traditional city markets and small shops. The project, designed by the Natalini Architetti studio, offered residents and visitors a completely new format: a massive space where hundreds of shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues are gathered under one roof.

Thanks to its prime location and impressive variety of stores, I Gigli quickly gained popularity, becoming one of the most visited shopping centers not only in Tuscany but in all of Italy. It played a key role in popularizing large malls and outlets and became a major attraction for shopping tourism. Many travelers specifically include it in their itinerary to combine sightseeing with great shopping deals.

One of the most interesting facts is related to the shopping center's name. “I Gigli” translates from Italian as “The Lilies.” This is not a random choice but a direct reference to the fleur-de-lis, the centuries-old heraldic symbol of Florence. Thus, even the name of this modern complex highlights its close connection to the region's rich cultural and historical heritage. This detail adds a special charm to the mall, making it more than just a place to shop, but a part of the modern history of the famous city.

When planning a visit to the I Gigli shopping center, it's worth allocating enough time to get the most out of your shopping experience. For a standard visit, including a leisurely stroll through the galleries and checking out key stores, it is recommended to set aside at least 3–4 hours. This time will be sufficient to make basic purchases and get a feel for the variety of brands without feeling rushed.

If your goal is to thoroughly explore the offers during seasonal sales or if you want to combine shopping with leisure, it's better to plan for half a day. This will give you the chance not only to hunt for the best discounts but also to take a break at one of the food court restaurants or participate in the entertainment events often held at the complex. Overall, a shopping trip can take at least 5 hours, especially if you are traveling by car and don't have to carry your numerous purchases with you.

The I Gigli shopping center is open year-round, which is very convenient for tourists planning a trip to Florence at any time. Shops are open to visitors daily from 9:00 AM to 10:00 PM. The restaurants and food court area stay open later, until 11:00 PM every day, allowing guests to stay for dinner. It is important to note that the complex is closed on major Italian public holidays, such as January 1st, Easter and Easter Monday, May 1st, August 15th, and December 25th and 26th.

No advance booking or ticket purchase is required to visit the shopping center—entry is free for everyone. However, since operating hours may change, especially on the eve of holidays or during special events, it is recommended to check the official I Gigli website for the most up-to-date information before your trip. This will help you avoid any inconvenience and plan your shopping day in the best possible way.

Visiting the I Gigli shopping center is a wonderful opportunity for shopping, but your trip to this region of Italy would be incomplete without exploring its rich cultural heritage. The area surrounding the complex, and primarily Florence itself, offers an incredible number of historical and artistic treasures that are easily accessible. Excellent transport links allow for a smooth journey to the city center.

By combining your shopping trip with sightseeing, you can make the most of your journey. Just a few kilometers from I Gigli, world-famous museums, majestic basilicas, and unique corners preserving the spirit of the Renaissance await you. Below is a list of interesting places located relatively close to the shopping center.