Are you planning a trip to the Eternal City and wondering where to find the best shopping? Look no further! I’ve spent countless hours exploring Rome’s hidden gems, discovering the most unique shops and bustling markets. Let me be your guide, sharing my insider tips and personal experiences to help you make the most of your shopping adventures.
The Best Shopping Neighborhoods in Rome
Imagine a city overflowing with history, culture, and of course, shopping! Rome is a treasure trove of fashion, antiques, and local delights waiting to be discovered. But navigating the city’s vast shopping scene can feel overwhelming. Fear not! I’ve compiled a list of the best neighborhoods for every shopper, ensuring a fulfilling and exciting experience.
Shopping near the Spanish Steps:
This iconic location is a magnet for shoppers, attracting both locals and tourists alike. You’ll find a concentration of high-end brands like Gucci, Prada, and Armani, alongside local gems like Fausto Santini. But it’s not all luxury! Smaller, more affordable shops offer a diverse selection for every taste and budget. This is truly where Romans come to see and be seen, enjoying the vibrant energy of the city’s fashion scene. Want a deeper dive into this area? Check out my dedicated page on shopping near the Spanish Steps for a more detailed guide and tips!
Behind Piazza Navona: Via del Governo Vecchio and Via dei Coronari
Piazza Navona is one of Rome’s most stunning piazzas, and a must-visit. While you’ll find a few shops and restaurants on the piazza itself, the real shopping gems lie on the charming streets that lead away from it.
Via del Governo Vecchio is a delightful street, bursting with unique boutiques and vintage shops. It’s a haven for discovering hidden treasures, and the ambiance is truly captivating. Take a break from your shopping spree with a delicious snack or drink at one of the many charming cafes along the way.
Via dei Coronari, known for its antique dealers, still offers a unique shopping experience. While the market has changed, the street retains its historic charm, with interesting shops and eateries to explore. Spend a half-day, or even a whole day, meandering through these streets, discovering the treasures they hold.
Monti: A Neighborhood with a Soul
For a truly local experience, head to the charming Monti neighborhood. With its cobblestone streets, vibrant cafes, and charming boutiques, Monti is a haven for finding unique and authentic treasures.
This neighborhood is a testament to Rome’s rich history, dating back 2000 years. You won’t find any chain stores here, just independent shops offering a taste of local craftsmanship and style.
Monti is a treasure trove for antique enthusiasts. While the area once held a concentration of antique dealers, many still remain, their shops nestled amongst newer, modern boutiques.
Explore the Best Streets in Monti:
- Via del Boschetto
- Via dei Serpenti
- Via Urbana
- Via Panisperna
Shopping near the Vatican: Via Cola di Rienzo and Prati
If you’re exploring the grandeur of the Vatican, don’t miss the shopping haven that is Via Cola di Rienzo. This long, wide street stretches from the Vatican to Piazza del Popolo, offering a blend of big brand names like Tiffany’s and the Coin department store, alongside smaller, independent shops.
Venture beyond this main street into the residential Prati neighborhood, and you’ll discover a charming mix of boutiques and innovative shops. The surrounding streets, like Via dei Gracchi and Via degli Scipioni, are full of hidden gems.
Prati is known for its elegant architecture and upscale atmosphere, with grand buildings and charming cafes. It’s a delightful neighborhood to wander through, getting a glimpse of a different side of Rome.
Sales and Shop Hours
When are the Sales?
In Italy, there are two major sale periods (Saldi) each year: winter and summer. The dates vary depending on the region, but all shops in a given region must start and end their sales on the same day.
In Rome:
- Summer Sales: The first Saturday of July, lasting through most of August.
- Winter Sales: The first Saturday in January, lasting through most of February.
Shop Hours
Be prepared for a different shopping schedule than you might be accustomed to. Traditional Italian shop hours are unique and follow a rhythm that reflects the local lifestyle.
- Typical Hours: Shops open around 3-4pm and close around 7-8pm. Tuesday-Friday, they open in the morning around 9:30 or 10, close for “siesta” around 1pm, and then reopen around 3 or 4, closing again around 7-8pm. Saturday mornings, shops are open from 10-1, closing again until Monday afternoon.
What to Expect:
- Lunchtime Closure: Shops are closed for “lunch” from 1-3/4pm, and from Saturday afternoon until Monday afternoon.
- Holidays: Unlike some countries, holidays are not a time for shopping in Italy. Shops are typically closed on holidays, allowing shopkeepers and workers to enjoy their time off. Major holidays in Italy include Christmas Day, New Year’s Day, Easter Monday, and May 1st (Labor Day).
Where to Find the Perfect Pair of Shoes
Rome is a haven for shoe lovers! The city’s shopping streets are home to a wide array of shoe boutiques, catering to every taste and budget. Here are some of my favorite shoe havens:
- Spanish Steps: While you’ll find many high-end brands, you’ll also discover more unique and local brands like Fausto Santini, known for their beautifully crafted leather shoes.
- Scarpe Diem: This quirky shop, located behind Piazza Navona, lives by the motto “useless but beautiful shoes.” Prepare to be charmed!
- Fausto Santini on Via Frattina: This shop is a haven for chic and exquisitely crafted shoes, made with the finest leather. Their bags are equally stunning.
- Fausto Santini Outlet: Located near the Monti neighborhood, this outlet is run by Giacomo Santini, Fausto Santini’s father. It’s a treasure trove for finding unique and stylish shoes at great prices.
- Mencucci Boutique: Right next door to the Santini outlet, this shop carries a selection of clothes and shoes, with a focus on quality and style.
- L’Autre Chose: Near the Pantheon, this shop offers a beautiful selection of shoes, bags, and clothes. Their shoes are known for their comfort and elegance.
Shopping in Rome: A Cultural Perspective
Shopping in Rome, and Italy in general, can be a bit different from what you might be used to. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Customer Service: Italy is known for its more relaxed approach to customer service, which may seem less attentive than in some other cultures. Don’t be put off by what might seem disinterested or even rude behavior. If you need help, don’t hesitate to ask.
- Browse Carefully: In some traditional shops, merchandise may not be on display, and you’ll need to ask for what you want. This can take some getting used to, but it’s part of the experience. Don’t feel pressured to buy if you ask for something and then decide against it.
- Trying on Items: In some shops, you might not be allowed to try on certain items, especially those that could be easily damaged or stained. While this might seem unusual, it’s a common practice in some smaller, more traditional shops.
- Exchanges and Returns: Returns and exchanges can be challenging in Rome and Italy in general. It’s best to be cautious when making purchases, as returns are often difficult, and cash refunds are rare. Exchanges are more common but may require a short timeframe, original packaging, and unused items.
Rome is a city that invites you to explore, discover, and indulge in its vibrant culture. Embrace the unique shopping experience, and be prepared to be charmed by its hidden treasures and unique traditions. Happy shopping in Rome!
