Shopping in Rome is one of the ways to immerse yourself in the culture of this city, so if a spot of retail therapy appeals, it’s an activity to feature on your itinerary for sure. Streets lined with artisan shops that have stood for centuries are visited by locals and tourists alike. Whether it’s the leather goods, delicious delicacies or the chic fashion scene you want to discover, you’re in for a treat.
Here’s our handy guide to shopping in Rome – just make sure there’s room in your suitcase…
Best shopping in Rome for fashion
For an all-round fashion shopping experience in Rome, Via del Corso if your best spot. A mile-long street that caters for all tastes and all budgets. Start at Piazza del Popolo and meander all the way to Piazza Venezia. You’ll find department stores, Italian boutiques, high-street brands and more. Galleria Alberto Sordi is a mall worth a visit for the beautiful architecture alone. Then when you’ve walked the mile, you’ll be in the perfect location to venture off for more shopping at Piazza di Spagna and Via Campo Marzio.
For the general area:
Red Tour Route, Stop: Ludovisi / Spanish Steps
Best shopping in Rome for leather goods
Taking home some authentic Italian leather is a treasure you’ll always remember your city break by. You could spend an entire day browsing the beautiful leather bags, sandals and belts on offer. But you have to know where to go for the best quality and price. And that would be…Via Francesco Crispi. So if you’ve thrown a coin in the Trevi Fountain and you’re looking for some extracurricular activity in the area, you’re in the right place. This street is lined with buttery-soft Italian leather, from gloves, bags and purses, to shoes, belts, and travel accessories. Now your only problem is space in your suitcase.
For Via Francesco Crispi:
Red Tour Route, Stop: Ludovisi / Spanish Steps
Best shopping in Rome for food
What’s for lunch? A very important question in Rome you’ll hear often. And when you’re only visiting for a short time, it’s important that every meal is memorable. Food markets, deli’s and speciality stores are on every corner, so be sure to have a browse and pick up something delicious inbetween your sightseeing. A far better experience than a stuffy restaurant packed with tourists. Nouvo Mercato Trionfale (Prati) is a good all-round market open Monday – Saturday until 1.30pm, so get there in time for lunch. Volpetti (Testaccio) is a gourmet alimentari (deli) selling fresh pasta, black truffles and aged balsamic vinegar. Then for something sweet, visit Regoli (Esquilino) for pastries or desserts, or both. Hungry anyone?
For Regoli:
Purple & Red Tour Route, Stop: Basilica Santa Maria Maggiore
So there you have our shortlist of the must-visit destinations in Rome based on what you want to shop for. And yet if you manage to visit them all, you still won’t have scratched the surface. But half the fun is losing yourself in this magical city and seeing what you find along the way. Then when you’re feeling a little weary and tired, but still have some sights left on your list to tick off, hop on a Big Bus tour and we’ll take you to see the rest. Just don’t forget that spare suitcase!
