Department stores have been around since the mid 19th century, and they continue to be popular with luxury shoppers. Here are the best luxury department stores worldwide, based on factors like size, selection, and atmosphere. Whether you’re looking for designer clothes, high-end beauty products, or just a great place to window shop, these upscale stores will not disappoint.
Best Luxury Department Stores in the World
These luxury department stores are great places to shop for elegant items from top designers and renowned brands such as Gucci, Prada and Versace. Don’t miss out on shopping at one (or more!) of these top rated luxury department stores!
If you can’t visit these brick and mortar stores in person, many now offer online shopping worldwide.
What Are Luxury Department Stores?
Upscale department stores are vast spaces, with size and history two defining characteristics. Many of these high-end stores date back to the 19th century, when retailers such as Macy’s and Saks Fifth Avenue began offering customers a multi-brand shopping experience.
Stocked with designer clothes and other exclusive items, luxury department stores offer upscale shopping experiences across multiple floors and exclusive services such as custom tailoring.
High-end department stores are not to be confused with shopping galleries or malls such as Galleria Vittorio Emanuele in Milan or Bal Harbour Mall in Florida. These shopping malls feature a range of stores that are owned by different companies. Many retailers are focusing on off mall locations – smaller format stores that offer unique shopping experiences.
Luxury department stores may have in-store concessions such as Louis Vuitton but they are all part of the same building. They also differ from concept stores like Dover Street Market in London, Merci in Paris or 10 Corso Como in Milan. The latter type of retail space is typically smaller than a department store and sells products from an eclectic range of independent suppliers.
It is clear that luxury department stores offer an entirely different kind of shopping experience. A higher level of customer service and a more VIP feel is the focus in order to keep their customers returning time and time again.
25. Nordstrom, United States
Nordstrom is another notable luxury department store chain that boasts locations all over the United States and Canada. Headquartered in Seattle, Washington, Nordstrom offers shoppers a wide selection of upscale, stylish apparel and accessories for men, women and kids alike.
Nordstrom has grown to include numerous different stores as well, including Nordstrom Rack – an off-price retail chain which offers shoppers high-quality items at discount prices. With excellent customer service, unique store design and a commitment to quality, Nordstrom provides shoppers with an enjoyable shopping experience each time they visit.
24. Harvey Nichols, London
For those looking for personal attention and unique finds, Harvey Nichols department stores have been a go-to destination. Offering designer fashion and luxury food since 1831, they are renowned for providing exceptional service while offering the perfect combination of designer and trend-led fashion. They are owned by Hong Kong based Dickson Concepts, a luxury goods company.
Personal shoppers will take the time to get to know your style, advising on looks that suit your personal taste and lifestyle. Their customers can find all the latest new season designer collections in addition to exclusive collaboration pieces too. As well as their Knightsbridge, Leeds and Edinburgh stores, Harvey Nichols is one of the best online stores for luxury fashion.
23. Jelmoli, Zurich
Jelmoli in Zurich, Switzerland is one of the oldest luxury retail stores in the country. Founded in 1899 on Bahnhofstrasse, it introduced the mail order catalog.
A personal shopping service is available in German, French and English. Together with beauty and fashion departments featuring top brands, Jelmoli’s Food Market is particularly popular. It features a cheese humidor and several restaurants.
22. Shinsegae, South Korea
Located in the heart of Seoul, Shinsegae Department Store offers a luxury shopping experience. Whether you are looking for designer clothing and accessories, beauty products, or home appliances, you will find everything you need in this expansive department store.
There are six floors spread over 560,000 square feet. Whilst indulging in some retail therapy, take advantage of free amenities like complimentary Wi-Fi access and lounge spaces.
However, Shinsegae’s flagship store in Busan. At 3,163,000 square feet (293,900 m2), this is the largest department store in the world – bigger than Macy’s Herald Square flagship store which is spread over 2.5 million square feet (230,000 m2).
21. La Rinascente, Italy
La Rinascente has been around since the late 1800s and is one of Italy’s premier retail outlets. It has 11 department stores in Italy, including two flagship stores in Rome.
One of the largest department stores in Europe, La Rinascente Milan features 12 floors of shopping heaven, complete with a food court on the top level. From luxury clothing to designer Italian furniture and specialty home goods, La Rinascente has it all!
Check out our Milan one day itinerary if you’re planning a visit.
20. El Corte Ingles, Spain and Portugal
El Corte Ingles, the retail giant in Spain, is continuously growing since it opened its first store in Madrid in 1935. From its original store, it now operates hundreds of outlets across Spain where shoppers can enjoy unparalleled customer service and find something for everyone – family or individual.
It has become the premier retail outlet for Spanish shoppers with its annual sales exceeding 15 billion euros. El Corte Ingles offers stylish and fashionable clothing for all ages, exquisite home decor, digital products, grocery items and so much more. With such a vast array of merchandise on offer, El Corte Ingles truly allows customers to shop till they drop!
19. Le Bon Marché, Paris
Did you know that Le Bon Marché Rive Gauche in Paris was the first department store in the world? Opened by Aristide Boucicaut and his wife Marguerite in 1852, it was designed to “thrill all the senses”.
The store is an ideal spot to find classic items such as stunning jewellery, beautiful couture and exquisite furniture. It also holds unique surprises found nowhere else like their limited editions collections.
18. Bloomingdale’s, United States
Founded in 1861 and with 54 locations in the United States, Bloomingdale’s is one of the top department store chains in the world. Their flagship New York store at 59th Street and Lexington Avenue in New York City has a wide selection of apparel, jewelry and other consumer goods to choose from.
This luxury retailer also puts an emphasis on customer service with its blossoming loyalty program that rewards frequent buyers with exclusive pieces and discounts. Head to Magnolia Bakery on the first floor if you have a sweet tooth!
For those who cannot make it to a physical location, their website provides an easy and convenient shopping experience.
17. Liberty London
Liberty London is an iconic department store that has become a staple landmark of the vibrant and diverse city of London. Ever since its opening in 1875, the store has boasted a unique charm that continues to draw crowds around the world.
From its stunning Tudor-style exterior to its sumptuous interior featuring historic motifs, it’s no wonder Liberty London often appears in film and television. Every floor of the store houses an array of products from vintage clothing lines to luxurious perfumes and cosmetics, offering customers a one-stop-shop experience.
Arthur’s Café on the second floor is a popular pitstop, serving brunch, lunch, afternoon tea, cocktails and early dinner. With every visit to Liberty London, shoppers can expect an enthralling time with memories that will last long after they’ve left the store’s bustling halls.
16. Kaufhaus des Westens, Berlin
Kaufhaus des Westens, otherwise known as KaDeWe, is one of Berlin’s most iconic stores. Located in the heart of Berlin, this luxurious department store offers everything from textiles, fashion clothing and accessories to specialty gourmet coffees and teas.
Known for its fabulous customer service and incredible range of products, it is no wonder that KaDeWe attracts millions of tourists each year. Spread over 10 floors, this opulent destination can’t be missed when visiting Berlin. It is the second largest department store in Europe, after Harrods London.
15. De Bijenkorf, Netherlands
De Bijenkorf is a luxury retail chain with locations throughout the Netherlands that specialize in luxury fashion and accessories for men, women, and children. Founded in 1870 and now owned by the Selfridges Group, De Bijenkorf provides customers with stylish and sophisticated offerings from leading Dutch and international brands.
Whether shopping online or in one of its 7 stores, De Bijenkorf continues to make strides towards being a recognized global shopping destination.
14. Samaritaine, Paris
Samaritaine department store is a premier shopping destination in Paris. Located along the banks of the Seine River, this beautiful landmark is known for its luxury goods and designer labels.
The store has been a part of Parisian culture since 1850 and continues to be beloved by locals and tourists alike. It was bought by LVMH in 2001 and reopened after extensive renovation in 2021.
From chic clothing and fragrances to fine jewelry and homewares, there’s something for everyone at Samaritaine. With its classic architecture, sprawling terraces and breathtaking views, it’s no wonder that this remains one of the most iconic stores in all of Paris.
13. Nordiska Kompaniet, Sweden
The Nordiska Kompaniet department stores have been iconic features in the Gothenburg and Stockholm shopping scenes since 1901. Popular among tourists and locals alike, these fancy stores offer a wide selection of luxury items ranging from clothing to homeware.
The Gothenburg store is home to an impressive 8,600m² of space spread across six floors while the Stockholm location boasts an even larger 10,900m² of products over seven stories. Both locations also offer restaurant experiences and play host to many events throughout the year.
Whether looking for a one-of-a-kind souvenir on holiday or doing some weekly shopping, the Nordiska Kompaniet department stores in Gothenburg and Stockholm should remain at the very top of your list!
12. Isetan, Tokyo
Shopping in Tokyo can be an unforgettable experience, especially when you visit one of Tokyo’s major department stores, Isetan. This incredible shopping paradise entices Tokyo’s fashion-minded individuals with the latest trends in designer clothing collections and accessories.
Isetan also has its own food halls, boasting some of the best international cuisines Tokyo has to offer. With its unbeatable selection of quality merchandise, products, and food as well as stunning decor and attentive staff, it’s no wonder why this beloved Tokyo stalwart continues to draw in new customers year after year.
11. Daslu, São Paulo
Daslu is one of the largest luxury department stores in Latin America, featuring luxury fashion from around the world. Located in São Paulo, Brazil, the store features designer clothing, shoes and accessories for both men and women, as well as furniture, home decor and decorative items.
Since its foundation in 1947, Daslu has made São Paulo a desirable destination for global shoppers looking to get their hands on the world’s leading luxury brands. The uniqueness of Daslu’s product selection ensures that customers can find pieces here they won’t see anywhere else.
With the highest level of service and attention to detail, Daslu gives São Paulo residents and visitors alike the opportunity to experience retail excellence.
10. Bongénie Grieder, Switzerland
Switzerland may be known for its pristine Alps, delicious chocolates, and watches of unparalleled quality, but there is far more to this country than those stereotypes may lead us to believe. Switzerland’s boast an impressive array of retail stores, none more iconic than Bongénie Grieder department stores.
Established in 1878 by Swiss entrepreneur Jean-Louis Grieder, these luxurious department stores have long been home to the finest fashion and accessories from Switzerland as well as from around the world. With six locations throughout Switzerland, shopping at Bongénie Grieder is a unique experience.
9. Saks Fifth Avenue, multiple countries
Saks Fifth Avenue is one of the most renowned luxury department stores in the world. The flagship store is located in New York City. It carries a wide selection of high-end designer clothing and accessories for men, women, and children, as well as home decor items, designer jewelry, and beauty products.
Since its opening in 1924, this retailer has made a name for itself as one of the premier spots to buy upscale fashion from renowned designers. There are currently a total of 45 Saks retail locations in the United States, Canada, Bahrain and Kazakhstan.
Saks is well known for its impeccable selection of designer pieces and couture collections. The Fifth Avenue store has a popular Vera Wang bridal house concession.
Customers not only benefit from their creative collaborations with European brands but their unmatched customer service tailored to each individual’s needs.
8. El Palacio de Hierro, Mexico
Mexico’s premier department store chain, El Palacio de Hierro, dates back to the 19th century. Founded in Mexico City in 1889, the store was among Mexico’s first retail establishments of its kind and made a name for itself with its quality selection of products intended for Mexico’s high society.
Today, El Palacio de Hierro luxury stores can be found all over Mexico and are known for offering upscale merchandise such as fashion apparel, beauty products, household items and furniture. With a reputation of excellence backed by more than 130 years of history, it is no surprise that El Palacio continues to be Mexico’s go-to destination for luxury goods.
7. Printemps, France
A classic Parisian department store that has been around since 1863, Printemps is known for its stunning art nouveau interior design and fabulous window displays.
Known around the world as a nexus for latest fashions, Printemps also offers excellent customer service – from the lift attendants to sales staff. Shopping at Printemps not only means you’re up to date with latest trends but also that you’ll be in good hands too.
There are currently 20 Printemps department stores in France and nine Citadium stores. A Printemps New York is set to open at One Wall Street in 2024.
6. Neiman Marcus, United States
Neiman Marcus is an iconic luxury specialty store in the United States, offering luxury apparel and accessories for men, women, and children. Founded in 1907, Neiman Marcus provides shoppers with a luxurious environment to find designer apparel, accessories, home goods, and more.
With high quality merchandise, vast departments to explore, and countless options for personalization, Neiman Marcus is a destination where you can make any purchase special. Long renowned for their exceptional customer service and outstanding rewards programs, Neiman Marcus continues to be a go-to destination for discerning shoppers looking for a unique experience.
5. Ginza Mitsukoshi, Tokyo
Ginza Mitsukoshi in Tokyo, Japan is one of the most prestigious luxury department stores in the world and features a wide variety of exclusive brands.
This upscale department store is known for its excellent customer service and luxurious products, from high-end fashion to home decor. The Food Hall and restaurants are particularly popular.
4. Selfridges, United Kingdom
With a prime position on Oxford Street, London, Selfridges is one of the best department stores in the world. Shoppers can choose from a selection of high fashion finds and luxury items from stationery to home decor.
This famous London landmark is known for its excellent customer service, with attentive staff and a range of luxury products created by some of the top designers around.
There are three other Selfridges locations, in Birmingham, the Trafford Centre and Exchange Square in Manchester. The Selfridges Birmingham department store has a unique design by the architects Future Systems.
Whatever your style, budget or taste, you are sure to find something exquisite when browsing Selfridges’ shelves. Fashionable men and women will enjoy a visit to Selfridges in London, Manchester or Birmingham.
3. Bergdorf Goodman, New York City
This shopping mecca is a favorite of celebrities and fashionistas alike, offering designer clothing, shoes, handbags, jewelry, and more. Part of the Neiman Marcus Group (NMG), Bergdorf Goodman’s flagship store is located in New York City.
The expensive store attracts a celebrity-filled clientele. From stylish sets of designer clothing, shoes, and handbags to the most stunning jewelry you can imagine, this department store has something for everyone.
Those searching for high fashion designer labels need look no further. Fashionistas with discerning taste find much to explore at Bergdorfs. Located on Fifth Avenue, it’s within easy access of many of NYC’s other greatest shopping temptations as well. With its glamorous reputation, impressive selection of merchandise, and convenient location, Bergdorf Goodman is a must visit destination for fashionable shoppers in the Big Apple.
2. Galeries Lafayette, multiple countries
Galeries Lafayette offers both high-end fashion and affordable everyday items, making it a favorite among locals and tourists alike. Their flagship Paris store is an iconic shopping experience for all types of shoppers. This multi-story department store has a glass dome that serves as its centerpiece, adding to the luxurious atmosphere that the store offers.
Inside you will find a range of items from high-end fashion and luxury goods, to everyday affordable items. Both locals and tourists adore Galeries Lafayette, making it an ideal spot for anyone looking for the perfect item. It’s no wonder this historical landmark remains one of the city’s most popular attractions!
There are actually 280 stores in the Galeries Lafayette group, welcoming over 1 million visitors a day! As well as Paris, Galeries Lafayette is present in Berlin, Beijing, Dubai, Istanbul, Jakarta and Luxembourg, with plans to open a store in Guiyang.
1. Harrods, London
Perhaps the most iconic London department store, Harrods is famous for its opulent interiors and vast selection of designer brands.
With luxurious fashion from the likes of Dior, Valentino and Saint Laurent, it’s no surprise that Harrods attracts shoppers from around the world. Located in London’s illustrious Knightsbridge area, this majestic department store has been delighting customers with its unrivalled selection of designer products since 1849.
From designer clothing to jewellery and homewares, Harrods is a truly inspiring experience and an absolute must-see when you’re visiting London. At Christmas time, the window displays are particularly stunning!
Final Thoughts: Top Luxury Department Stores Worldwide
These luxury department stores offer the best of the best when it comes to designer labels, excellent customer service, and luxurious products. If you’re looking for a high-end shopping experience, any one of these expensive department stores would be perfect.
Are there any other high end stores that you would add to this list? Let us know in the comments.
Be sure to check out our other luxury style articles for more inspiration!
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