Outlet shopping in Milan has taken on near mythic proportions. Rumors abound about little hole in the wall shops selling cashmere sweaters direct from the Loro Piana factory, or secret shipments of Ferragamo shoes for sale in the back of an office – without a doorbell, of course. The reality of outlet shopping in Milan is that it does require a great deal of patience and perseverance, as many of the best outlets are indeed located behind gates or hidden away in basements. But with a little digging – or a superb map, or better yet, a driver - you can find Prada, Gucci and Armani at drastically reduced prices. Here is our list of the best outlet shopping in Milan.

Milan is chock full of gorgeous hotels, but if you'd rather save your euros for a serious shopping expedition, consider the new boutique hotel Vietnammonamour. This chic and cheap (around 110 euros) bed and breakfast is centrally located in Milan, and is housed in an early 20^th century building. The hotel features furniture imported from Vietnam, and the in-house restaurant serves contemporary Southeast Asian cuisine. Vietnammonamour, 7 Via A. Pestalozz, Milan, Phone +39-02/7063-4614.

You have to love Dolce & Gabbana for their exuberant style (I also love their ad campaigns). The duo's newest project is Gold in Milan. Why call it- and decorate- in gold? The designing pair say it's the colour of sun, energy and luxury. Gold features a bar, café and bistro downstairs while the formal restaurant is upstairs. The food is international Italian but there's also a lighter fare menu for the “fanatics” as they call them. Diners can also purchase food for take-away- in chic gold bags of course. Dolce & Gabbana Gold, Via Carlo Poerio 2/A, Milan, Phone +39 02 75 777 71.