In Italy, shopping is synonymous with high-quality design, textiles, and handcrafted goods. Everywhere you look, from the glittering streets of Milan's fashion district to Florence's classic leather markets, you can find gems that combine luxury, local craftsmanship, and history. Italy's shopping streets offer an incredible experience for fashion enthusiasts, souvenir hunters, and those in search of unique finds, making it a destination for all types of shoppers.
Read on to explore the best shopping places in Italy!
Best places for shopping in Italy
Here is a list of some of the best shopping places in Italy:
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Via Del Corso, Rome
Whether you're craving luxury items from Liu Jo, hunting for the latest high-street trends at Zara and H&M, or in search of Italian elegance at boutiques like Benetton and Calzedonia, this vibrant street offers something for every taste.
Here, you can even take a break from shopping and relax in one of the charming cafés or look for hidden treasures in the souvenir shops and bookshops. Don't forget to check out the jewellery stores like Swarovski, shoe stores, and even electronics stores like TIM.
Location: Rome, Italy
Timings: Shops usually open from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM
Things to buy: Fashion apparel, shoes, accessories, electronics, books, and souvenirs
Best time to visit: evenings to enjoy the illuminated historic surroundings while shopping
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Via Monte Napoleone, Milan
Via Monte Napoleone in Milan is the world's most expensive shopping street. This exquisite Italian street is longer than popular avenues like New York’s Fifth Avenue and the Champs-Élysées in Paris. Luxury brands like Loro Piana, Versace, and Bottega Veneta showcase their works of art on Via Monte Nepoleone.
This street transforms into the ultimate playground for fashion enthusiasts during Milan Fashion Week. An irresistible perk that draws shoppers to the streets of Milan from all corners of the globe is the tax-free luxury shopping opportunity.
Location: Milan, Italy
Timings: Typically, shops are open from 10:00 to 7:30 PM
Things to buy: Luxury fashion, leather goods, designer shoes, and accessories
Best time to visit: Weekends for a vibrant shopping experience
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Via Giovan Battista Zannoni, Florence
Via Giovan Battista Zannoni in Florence is for those who love leather. This street hosts leather shops that redefine elegance and are renowned for their outstanding craftsmanship. The crowning jewel in this region is Michelangelo Florentine Leather, which sells everything from classic handbags to custom jackets. The experience of seeing craftspeople at work in front of you is just as enticing as the products on this street.
Location: Florence, Italy
Timings: Shops open at 9:30 AM to 7:30 PM
Things to buy: Leather jackets, handbags, belts, and high-end accessories
Best time to visit: Late afternoon, when the golden sunlight highlights Florence’s historic charm
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Mercerie, Venice
The Mercerie in Venice is an intricate series of shopping avenues extending from St. Mark's Square to the famous Rialto Bridge. As you wander through these historic alleys, you can find everything from carnival masks and Venetian glass souvenirs to jewellery and clothes.
Location: Venice, Italy
Timings: 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM for shopping
Things to buy: Jewelry, carnival masks, glassware, souvenirs, and unique Venetian crafts
Best time to visit: Early evening, when the streets light up with the magic of Venice
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Via Toledo, Naples
Via Toledo is a popular shopping street in Naples that dates back to 1536. It is a visual feast with its historic facades and the gorgeous Toledo metro station with its blue mosaics. If bespoke tailoring excites you, walk into Sartoria Italiana and Luisa Spagnoli for elegant Italian styles or shop your heart out at Zara, H&M, and Pull&Bear. As you stroll these streets, you can admire famous sites like the Piazza del Plebiscito and the Royal Palace of Naples.
Location: Naples, Italy
Timings: Open from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM
Things to buy: Fashion apparel, local crafts, Naples sweets, and souvenirs
Best time to visit: Late afternoon for shopping and sightseeing
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Via Mazzini, Verona
In Verona, Via Mazzini is the largest pedestrian shopping area between Piazza Brà and Piazza delle Erbe. This street is lined with Italian fashion boutiques, making it a shopper's paradise.
Verona is also home to artisan shops, quirky antique stalls, and cute pastry shops. It has more than 200 exhibitors; Corso Sant'Anastasia is a veritable gold mine for antique enthusiasts, and Via Cappello has everything from gadget stores to perfumeries.
Location: Verona, Italy
Timings: Shops are open from 10:00 AM to 7:30 PM
Things to buy: Italian fashion, antiques, vintage decor, and handmade jewellery
Best time to visit: Early evening for a relaxed shopping experience
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS)
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What makes shopping in Italy so unique?
Shopping in Italy is an experience that blends local craftsmanship with high-end luxury. Every Italian city has something unique to offer.
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Is shopping in Italy expensive?
It depends on where and what you shop for! Luxury streets like Via Monte Napoleone cater to high-end buyers. However, plenty of affordable options are available in places like Via Del Corso in Rome or Via Toledo in Naples. Plus, Italy offers tax-free shopping perks for non-EU tourists in luxury stores.
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What are unique souvenirs to buy from Italy?
Italy is a treasure trove of unique keepsakes that carry a piece of its charm and history. You can buy beautiful carnival masks in Venice, handcrafted leather in Florence, art prints from the Brera art district, Milanese Panettone, Neapolitan sweets in Naples, local wine, and postcards only, to name a few!
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What should I pack for a shopping trip in Italy?
Comfortable walking shoes, a roomy bag or backpack to keep your finds safe, and don't forget your passport for tax-free shopping claims!
Conclusion
Shopping in Italy is more about creating memories as you explore its vibrant streets, luxurious stores, and hidden cultural treasures. Every purchase you make will carry a story.
Before you set off for Italy, it’s prudent to take certain precautionary measures, especially when you visit crowded shopping districts. This includes travel insurance, a must for a Schengen visa, and a safety net for journeys to unfamiliar destinations. You can browse travel insurance online to choose one that best suits your needs. It will cover unexpected medical and travel emergencies, such as trip cancellations, flight delays, passport loss, and even accidents.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It may contain outdated data and information regarding the Insurance industry and products. It is advised to verify the currency and relevance of the data and information before taking any major steps. ICICI Lombard is not liable for any inaccuracies or consequences resulting from the use of this outdated information.