This is your one-stop shop for navigating the shopping scene in the Eternal City, packed with insider tips and hidden gems.
Welcome to Rome! Are you ready to dive into the vibrant world of Roman shopping? I’m thrilled to share my years of experience as a local shopper, uncovering the best spots and must-know advice. This guide will lead you through the city’s most alluring shopping districts, from the high-end boutiques of the Spanish Steps to the charming vintage finds of Monti. Let’s get started!
Where to Shop in Rome
A city like Rome, with its rich history and diverse neighborhoods, offers a wide range of shopping experiences. Here’s a glimpse of some of Rome’s most sought-after shopping zones.
The Spanish Steps – Where Fashion Reigns Supreme
The area surrounding the iconic Spanish Steps boasts the highest concentration of shops in the city. From luxurious brands like Gucci, Prada, and Armani to local favorites like Fausto Santini, you’ll find something for every taste and budget. It’s not just for tourists either, Romans themselves flock to this area for its stylish offerings.
Piazza Navona’s Hidden Treasures
While Piazza Navona is a must-visit for its stunning architecture and lively atmosphere, the true shopping gems are found just off the square, tucked away in the streets of via del Governo Vecchio and via dei Coronari. Charming boutiques and vintage shops line these streets, offering a unique shopping experience.
Monti – A Neighborhood with Heart
If you’re searching for authentic, local charm and a taste of Rome’s history, then Monti is the perfect spot for you. This historic district boasts cobblestone streets, quaint cafes, and unique boutiques. It’s also home to many antique dealers, carrying treasures from the city’s rich past.
Prati – Elegance and Innovation Meet
Prati offers a blend of high-end shopping and local finds. Via Cola di Rienzo is a bustling street, home to international brands and the Coin department store. Venture deeper into the neighborhood and you’ll discover a plethora of charming shops, showcasing innovative and stylish creations.
Rome Shopping Guide – Sales and Shop Hours
Understanding the rhythm of Roman shopping is key to a successful shopping expedition. Here’s the lowdown on sales and shop hours to make the most of your time.
Sales in Italy – Twice a Year and No More!
Across Italy, sales, known as “Saldi,” happen twice a year: once in winter and once in summer. The exact dates vary slightly by region, but the good news is that all shops in a particular region must begin and end their sales on the same day.
Shop Hours – A Different Pace
Traditional Roman shops operate on a schedule that’s a little different than you might be used to. Most shops open around 3-4 pm and close around 7-8 pm. Tuesday through Friday, they also open in the mornings, from 9:30 or 10 am until 1 pm, then close for “siesta” before reopening again in the afternoon. Saturday mornings see shops open from 10 am to 1 pm, but then they close until Monday afternoon.
The Importance of Holidays
In Italy, holidays are not a reason to shop! They’re a time for shopkeepers and workers to relax and enjoy their time off. So, expect shops to be closed on Christmas Day, New Year’s Day, Easter Monday, and May 1st (Labor Day).
Where to Buy Shoes in Rome – A Shopaholic’s Paradise
Rome is a shoe lover’s dream, offering a selection of brands and styles that will leave you spoilt for choice. Here are some of my top shoe boutique picks in the city.
The Spanish Steps – From Luxury to Local Finds
The Spanish Steps area offers an impressive range of shoe options, from luxury brands like Prada, Gucci, Tods, and Fratelli Rossetti to local gems like Fausto Santini.
Beyond the Spanish Steps – Hidden Treasures
For a truly unique shoe shopping experience, venture off the beaten path and explore these hidden gems:
- Scarpe Diem: Their motto is “useless but beautiful shoes,” and they live up to it. You’ll find this boutique behind Piazza Navona, on Via di Parione 40.
- Fausto Santini on via Frattina: This chic boutique offers exquisitely crafted shoes made from gorgeous leather. They also boast a fantastic selection of bags.
- The Fausto Santini Outlet: This gem is actually run by Giacomo Santini, Fausto Santini’s father. It’s located near the Monti neighborhood, on Via Cavour 103.
- Mencucci boutique: Right next door to the Santini outlet, this boutique offers both shoes and clothing.
- L’Autre Chose: Situated near the Pantheon, this boutique is known for its stylish and comfortable shoes and bags. Their shoes are a perfect blend of fashion and durability.
Roman Shopping Etiquette – Navigating the Local Landscape
As you embark on your shopping adventures in Rome, keep these tips in mind for a smooth and enjoyable experience.
Customer Service – A Different Approach
Rome, like many other parts of Italy, has a more relaxed approach to customer service compared to some other cultures. You might encounter staff who seem disinterested or inattentive, but don’t let it deter you. If you need assistance, simply ask. While it’s not always the case, you may find very helpful and friendly staff.
Asking to See Merchandise – Embrace the Traditional
In some traditional shops, much of the merchandise is not displayed. You’ll need to ask to see what you’re interested in. This can be a bit different if you prefer to browse at your own pace, but it’s a part of the local shopping experience. Don’t worry if you ask to see something and then decide not to buy it, it’s commonplace.
Trying Things On – A Relaxed Approach
In some shops, you may not be allowed to try on everything, especially sweaters, blouses, and lingerie. This is slowly changing, but it’s something to keep in mind.
Returns and Exchanges – Be Prepared
Returns and exchanges can be tricky in Rome and other parts of Italy. Getting your money back is rare, and credit card returns can be a lengthy process. If a shop allows returns, it will likely be for a credit in the same shop, and it must be within a short time frame, in its original packaging, and unused. It’s best to be cautious when buying things in Rome and understand that returns are not always easy.
