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Ever imagined what shopping in Rome, Italy, might be like? Discover a shopper’s paradise hidden within its historic ruins and artistic treasures, as we walk you through The Eternal City’s best finds and vacation stays.
As the 5th most visited city in Europe, Rome is more than just a historical marvel and culinary hotspot. It is also a hub for shopping in Rome, Italy, where a world of style and sophistication unfolds, charming fashion enthusiasts and bargain hunters alike. No wonder the city is being flocked by nearly 10 million visitors annually from different parts of the world.
Nestled in the heart of Italy, Rome houses an array of designer boutiques, vibrant street markets, and traditional craft stores. And today, we’ll take you on a shopping spree through the city’s best spots, uncovering Rome’s best finds so can bring home more than just memories! We’ve also got recommendations on where to stay near the best boutiques, so you can beat the crowd.
With that said, tighten your shoelaces and loosen your purse strings – let’s begin this exciting Roman adventure!
Designer Boutiques: Shopping in Rome, Italy’s Fashion Streets
Stepping into the realm of high fashion, shopping in Rome, Italy, is a dream come true for fashion-forward travelers. Home to international designer boutiques and Italian fashion houses, these are some of the chic streets you should wander:
Via dei Condotti. This is Rome’s answer to Fifth Avenue, lined with luxury boutiques like Prada, Gucci, and Valentino. If you’re seeking the crème de la crème of Italian fashion, this is the place to be.
Via del Corso. Offering a mix of affordable brands and upscale fashion houses, this bustling street is perfect for a shopping spree. Check out global brands such as Zara and H&M, along with Italian favorites like Falconeri and Liu Jo.
Via del Babuino. This street might be known for its high-end antique shops and art galleries, but there’s actually more to that. It also hosts high-fashion stores such as Chanel and Salvatore Ferragamo. It’s the perfect location for discerning shoppers with an eye for unique fashion pieces.
Via Borgognona. Just around the corner from Via dei Condotti, it’s home to renowned brands such as Fendi and Moschino.
Via Margutta. Known as the ‘Artists’ Street’, it’s filled with art galleries, antique shops, and boutique fashion stores.
For your shopping convenience: Consider a stay in the Piazza di Spagna area, home to the stylish Il Gattopardo Relais. If you’re visiting Rome with a large family or group of friends, you can find more spacious properties like these right in the heart of Rome’s fashion district.
Affordable Chic: The Best Street Markets in Rome
Do you enjoy the thrill of finding one-of-a-kind items at a bargain? Then Rome’s street markets are not to be missed! These markets offer a range of products from vintage clothes to handmade accessories:
Porta Portese Market. As Rome’s largest and most famous flea market, you’ll find an astonishing array of goods, from vintage clothing and antique furniture to vinyl records and rare books.
Mercato Monti. This trendy market is a hit with the younger crowd, selling a curated selection of vintage fashion, handmade jewelry, and unique artwork.
Campo de’ Fiori. Known for its morning food market, it transforms in the afternoon, with stalls offering leather goods, clothes, and souvenirs.
Mercato delle Stampe. This market is a haven for book lovers, with an array of used books, prints, and antique engravings.
Mercato di Testaccio. This market is known for its local food but also offers clothing and accessories from local artisans.
For easy access to street markets: We recommend staying near Campo de’ Fiori so you can taste and see how this square transforms into a lively outdoor dining area at night. Traveling with your furry retail bud? Don’t sweat it. There are also pet-friendly options in the area, just like this cozy, one-bedroom loft.
Italian Treasures: Shopping for Traditional Crafts in Rome
When shopping in Rome, Italy, take home a piece of Italian heritage by purchasing traditional crafts. Here are a few places to find these treasures:
Bartolucci. This shop offers beautifully crafted wooden toys and the famous Pinocchio figurines – an ideal keepsake or gift for children.
Antico Forno Roscioli. While it’s technically a bakery, it’s worth mentioning as their traditional Italian pastries are edible works of art – perfect to enjoy there or take home as delicious gifts.
De Bellis. Known for its high-quality Italian ceramics, this shop in Campo de’ Fiori is an excellent place to pick up a piece of Roman tradition.
L’Artigianato. This shop offers a range of traditional Italian crafts, from ceramics to textiles.
Valzani. For the sweet-toothed traveler, Valzani’s traditional Italian chocolates make the perfect treat or gift.
Stay Close: Your enjoyment of Italy’s traditional crafts doesn’t have to stop when you exit Rome’s shops. The Hotel Santa Maria is full of character from door to loft, with postcard-worthy corners that are a feast for the eyes. Surround yourself with the richness of Roman art with more vacation rentals like these.
Enjoy Rome’s traditional crafts shops while staying in the heart of the city.
Hotala’s Picks: Recommended Places To Go Shopping in Rome, Italy
As your guide to the best of Rome, Hotala recommends these prime shopping locations, blending a mix of high fashion, affordable chic, and traditional crafts:
Via Cola di Rienzo. This shopping street in Prati is known for its mix of mid-range and upscale shops, appealing to a broad range of budgets and tastes.
Castel Romano Designer Outlet. Just outside Rome, this designer outlet offers discounts on renowned Italian and international brands, including Roberto Cavalli, Michael Kors, and Diesel.
Galleria Alberto Sordi. This beautiful shopping gallery offers a variety of shops in a stunning architectural setting, making for a memorable shopping experience.
Eataly. Offering the best of Italian food, drink, and culinary products, Eataly is an essential stop for foodie shoppers.
Via del Boschetto. This street in the Monti district is lined with independent boutiques and craft shops, perfect for finding unique souvenirs.
Hotala’s pick: Consider the vibrant Trastevere district, renowned for its bohemian vibe and an eclectic mix of boutiques. And for a one-of-a-kind stay, check out Hotel La Rovere, only 650 meters away from the famous St. Peter Square.
Mastering the Roman Retail Scene: Essential Tips for Shopping in Rome, Italy
Navigating the shopping scene in Rome can be as thrilling as it is daunting. But with a little guidance, you can make the most of your retail adventures in the Eternal City. Here are five key tips to help you shop like a pro:
Know the Shopping Hours. Unlike many other cities, shops in Rome tend to open around 10 am and close at 8 pm, with a long lunch break between 1 pm and 3:30 pm. Some smaller shops may even close on Monday mornings, so plan accordingly.
Sales Seasons. Italy has two main sales seasons. The winter sales usually begin in the first week of January and run until mid-February. The summer sales start in the first week of July and last until mid-August. These are the best times to snag great deals.
Bargaining. While it’s not common to haggle in boutiques or high-end stores, bargaining is generally accepted at outdoor markets. If you’re buying a large amount or an expensive item, don’t be afraid to negotiate the price.
Receipts. Always ask for a receipt when making purchases. This is not only because it’s required by Italian law, but it also makes it easier for you to return or exchange items if needed.
VAT Refunds. If you’re a non-EU resident, remember that you’re eligible for a VAT (Value Added Tax) refund on goods over a certain amount. Make sure to ask for a VAT refund form when making a qualifying purchase.
Indulge in Rome’s Ultimate Retail Therapy with Hotala
As we’ve journeyed through the rich landscape of shopping in Rome, Italy, we’ve seen how this historical city is a shopper’s paradise. From high-end designer boutiques to bustling street markets and shops filled with traditional Italian crafts, the Eternal City offers an eclectic mix of shopping experiences that cater to every style and budget. With the knowledge we’ve shared, we trust you’re ready to conquer the Roman retail scene.
Remember, Hotala is here to help you find the most comfortable and convenient accommodations during your stay. Start planning your retail adventure and secure your stay in Rome with Hotala!
TLDR
Shopping in Rome, Italy is an unforgettable experience.
The city offers a wide array of shopping opportunities, from designer boutiques like Valentino and Gucci to popular street markets like Porta Portese and Campo de’ Fiori. Traditional crafts can be found in shops across the city, and Hotala recommends some key spots like Sant’Eustachio Il Caffè and the Cola di Rienzo shopping street.
This blog also covers important shopping tips including knowing the shopping hours, being aware of sales seasons, and understanding the norms around bargaining and VAT refunds.
Remember, Hotala is always there to help you find the perfect place to stay, close to your shopping hotspots!
