Ready to hit the streets of Rome and find some treasures? You’re in the right place! I’ve spent countless hours exploring Rome’s shops, hunting down hidden gems and uncovering the best shopping spots. This guide is packed with insider tips and secrets to help you navigate the bustling Roman retail scene like a pro.
Unlocking Rome’s Shopping Secrets
From luxury boutiques to vintage finds, Rome has it all! But knowing where to go and how to shop is key. This section dives into the heart of Rome’s shopping scene, revealing the best neighborhoods and hidden gems.
Where’s the best shopping in Rome?
The Spanish Steps: This iconic area is a shopper’s paradise! Expect high-end brands like Gucci, Prada, and Armani, alongside local names like Fausto Santini. You’ll also find smaller, more affordable shops, making it a haven for diverse tastes. This is where Romans come to shop, showcasing the best of Italian style. Need more info? Head over to my dedicated page about Shopping near the Spanish Steps. It’s packed with street-by-street details and my favorite spots to grab a break between purchases.
Piazza Navona: A must-visit for its beauty, Piazza Navona is also a great place to discover hidden shopping treasures. Two streets, in particular, offer a unique shopping experience:
- Via del Governo Vecchio: This charming street is home to quirky boutiques and a vibrant atmosphere. You’ll find plenty of vintage shops and places to stop for a snack or drink.
- Via dei Coronari: This street was once famous for antique dealers but has evolved into a mix of shops and eateries. It’s a great place to wander and find unique items.
Monti: For a more local and intimate shopping experience, head to the Monti neighborhood. This historic area has a captivating old-world charm, with cobblestone streets, charming cafes, and delightful boutiques. You won’t find any big chain stores here, just unique local finds. Monti is also a great place to hunt for antiques, with many shops showcasing a mix of old and new. The best shopping streets in Monti: Via del Boschetto, Via dei Serpenti, Via Urbana, and Via Panisperna.
The Vatican Area: Via Cola di Rienzo is a major shopping artery that runs between the Vatican and Piazza del Popolo. This street features bigger brands, including Tiffany’s and the Coin department store. But venture into the nearby Prati neighborhood, and you’ll be rewarded with charming, innovative shops. This upscale residential area, filled with grand buildings, offers a different side of Rome and is perfect for exploring. Don’t miss the parallel streets of Via dei Gracchi and Via degli Scipioni.
Navigating Rome’s Shopping Rhythms
Sales, shop hours, and holidays: Understanding these local customs is key to a smooth shopping experience.
Sales: In Italy, “Saldi” (sales) happen twice a year, once in winter and once in summer. The exact dates vary by region but all shops in a specific region must begin and end their sales on the same day. In Rome, summer sales usually start the first Saturday in July and run through August. Winter sales start the first Saturday in January and continue through February.
Shop Hours: Traditional Italian shops follow a different rhythm than you might be used to. They often open in the afternoon, around 3-4pm, and close around 7-8pm. Tuesday to Friday, they’re open in the mornings, from 9:30 or 10am until about 1pm, then close for “siesta” before reopening in the afternoon. Saturday mornings, shops open from 10am to 1pm but close for the rest of the weekend. So generally, shops are closed for lunch (1-3/4pm) and from Saturday afternoon until Monday afternoon. This practice is still common for smaller boutiques and shops in local neighborhoods.
Holidays: In Italy, holidays are not for shopping but for enjoying time with family and friends. Shops are closed on major holidays like Christmas Day, New Year’s Day, Easter Monday, and May 1st (Labor Day).
Rome’s Shoe Scene: A Footwear Lover’s Paradise
Rome is a shoe lover’s dream! This section uncovers the best places to find stylish and unique footwear in the Eternal City.
The Spanish Steps: Aside from the big names like Prada, Gucci, Tods, and Fratelli Rossetti, you’ll discover local treasures like Fausto Santini, known for their soft leather shoes that fit like gloves. Spanish brands Geox and Camper offer stylish and well-made shoes at more affordable prices.
My Favorite Shoe Boutiques:
- Scarpe Diem: Their motto is “useless but beautiful shoes.” Located on Via di Parione 40, behind Piazza Navona.
- Fausto Santini on Via Frattina: Chic, exquisite, and incredibly well-made shoes, crafted from gorgeous leather. They also have amazing bags!
- The Fausto Santini Outlet: Run by the original, Giacomo Santini, Fausto’s father. Found near the Monti neighborhood on Via Cavour 103.
- Mencucci boutique: Right next door to the Santini outlet, offering shoes and clothing.
- L’Autre Chose: Near the Pantheon, they make beautiful clothes but their shoes and bags are my favorites. Piazza Campo Marzio 9-11.
Understanding Rome’s Shopping Culture
Rome’s shopping culture can be different from what you’re used to. Here are some tips to help you navigate the experience.
Customer Service: Italy has a less customer-service-oriented culture than some other countries. Don’t be surprised if you encounter seemingly disinterested or inattentive sales staff. However, you’ll also find friendly and helpful staff. Just remember to ask for help if you need it!
Hidden Merchandise: In some older shops, a lot of the merchandise isn’t on display. You’ll need to ask for what you want. Don’t be discouraged if you ask to see something and then decide against buying it. It’s common practice in these shops.
Trying On: In some shops, trying on items, especially delicate ones like sweaters, blouses, or lingerie, might not be allowed. It’s slowly changing as larger stores embrace the practice, but you might still encounter this.
Returns and Exchanges: Brace yourself: Returns and exchanges can be challenging in Rome (and other parts of Italy). Full refunds are rare, and returns often require a lengthy process. Exchanges are more common, but they must usually be within a short timeframe, with the original packaging and unused. So when you buy something in Rome, be mindful that returning it could be difficult.
Enjoy your shopping adventures in Rome! This vibrant city offers a unique and exciting shopping experience. Just remember to embrace the local customs and don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it. Happy shopping!
