Rome shopping guide: Top tips from locals! 🛍️
Shopping in Rome? Take a break from sightseeing and hit up the shopping scene. Rome is a great city for shopping, with a wide variety of stores and markets to choose from.
From well-known high-street brands to haute couture and everything in between,
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here is the guide to the best shopping experience in Rome!
Top 10 best shopping areas
#1 Via del Corso
The mile-long Via del Corso runs between Piazza Venezia and Piazza del Popolo, bisecting Rome’s historic center. Rome’s version of a high street, this area features popular clothing chains, high-end brands, local boutiques, and the beautiful Galleria Alberto Sordi. Nearby Via del Tritone is home to the 6-story luxury department store, La Rinascente, offering some of the best shopping in Rome.
#2 Via Cola di Rienzo
Cola di Rienzo, the main street of the upscale Prati neighborhood, is a more refined version of Via del Corso. It’s popular for its mix of stores, from luxury brands and designer boutiques to unique Italian jewelry and shoe shops. Don’t miss the glamorous Coin Excelsior department store which sells designer names in clothing, perfumes and cosmetics.
Besides shops, Via Cola di Rienzo also features several restaurants, cafes, and gelaterias, making it a perfect spot to take a break and enjoy a meal or snack during a busy shopping day.
#3 The Spanish Steps & Via Condotti
The area around Via Condotti and the Spanish Steps is Rome’s most exclusive shopping district, frequented by the elite. Top designer brands like Gucci, Prada, and Valentino are showcased here. Even if it’s beyond your budget, the dazzling window displays are still worth admiring. In addition to designer boutiques, the area boasts art galleries, antique shops, and specialty stores with luxury items like leather goods, jewelry, and home decor.
#4 Monti
Monti, just a short walk from the Colosseum, is perfect for independent shops offering quirky, quality goods. As one of Rome’s oldest neighborhoods, it boasts a vibrant mix of vintage shops, local boutiques, and artisanal markets, ideal for affordable shopping.
Via Urbana, Via del Boschetto, and Via dei Serpenti are lined with small boutiques and jewelry makers. Meanwhile, on weekends, Mercato Monti on Via Leonina hosts up-and-coming designers selling clothing, accessories, and homewares.
#5 Campo de’ Fiori
The streets around Campo de’ Fiori have long been home to Rome’s craftsmen, and despite increased commercialization, some spots still sell handmade goods. The daily outdoor Campo de’ Fiori Market is a top spot for fresh produce, flowers, and more. You can find a wide variety of local products such as fruits, vegetables, cheeses, and meats at affordable prices.
Wander the backstreets around Via dei Chiavari and Via del Pellegrino to find smaller artisans selling leather, shoes and jewelry.
#6 Piazza Navona
Piazza Navona is a famous and picturesque square in the heart of Rome, known for its stunning Baroque architecture and lively atmosphere. The square is surrounded by shops, cafes, and restaurants, making it a great place to explore and shop. From artisanal markets to jewelry and traditional Roman souvenir shops, this hip square is the perfect place to find unique and affordable gifts for your loved ones.
#7 Via del Governo Vecchio
Just off Piazza Navona, Via del Governo Vecchio is a favorite for vintage-lovers with a selection of dusty emporiums piled high with second-hand clothing and trinkets from every era. For something more modern, there are also several chic boutiques selling stylish Italian fashion and footwear. You can also find a couple of bookstores selling rare books, making it a great destination for book lovers!
#8 Il Mercato di Traiano
Il Mercato di Traiano, also known as Trajan’s Market, is an ancient Roman marketplace located near the Colosseum in Rome’s historic center. Moreover, it’s a great spot for shopping Italian souvenirs like leather goods, ceramics, and jewelry. However, keep in mind that it’s closed on Mondays, but entry is included with the Omnia Card or Roma Pass.
#9 Porta Portese Market
Porta Portese Market, the largest open-air market in Rome, is located in the Trastevere neighborhood and takes place every Sunday. It’s an excellent spot for shopping a wide range of goods, including vintage clothing, furniture, and other unique items at affordable prices.
However, be aware that it can get quite crowded, so arriving early is recommended to avoid the crowds and have more options. Additionally, as with most flea markets, haggling is common, so be prepared to negotiate prices.
#10 Mercato Centrale
This indoor market is a great place to shop for fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and other food items. The market has two levels: the lower level offers fresh produce, meat, and seafood, while the upper level hosts food vendors selling everything from fresh pasta and pizza to Roman street food. Mercato Centrale is known for its high-quality products and local specialties, making it the perfect spot to explore and discover hidden gems.
Still not convinced if Rome should be your next trip destination? You can even discover Rome in 2 days! A lot of hidden gems to discover!
Rome shopping guide: FAQs
What are the best shopping streets in Rome?
Via del Corso, Via Condotti, and Via Cola di Rienzo are some of the most famous shopping streets in Rome. Here you will find a mix of high-end boutiques, international brands, and local shops.
Where can I find authentic Italian craftsmanship in Rome?
For authentic Italian craftsmanship, visit the neighborhoods of Trastevere and Monti. There, you will find many small boutiques and studios operated by local artists and artisans.
Where are the best food markets in Rome?
Campo de' Fiori and Mercato Trionfale are popular food markets in Rome. They offer a variety of fresh produce, meat, cheese, and more. It's an excellent way to experience the local cuisine.
Which shopping malls are recommended in Rome?
Shopping malls such as La Rinascente, Euroma2, and Centro Commerciale Porta di Roma offer a wide range of stores and services under one roof.
Where can I buy designer fashion in Rome?
Via dei Condotti and the surrounding streets are renowned for their luxury boutiques. There, you will find brands such as Prada, Gucci, Valentino, and many more.
Where can I buy vintage and secondhand clothing in Rome?
Monti is the trendiest neighborhood in Rome for vintage and secondhand fashion. Stores like Pifebo and King Size Vintage are worth a visit.
Are there special sales hours or clearance seasons in Rome?
Yes, in Italy, there are two major sales periods called "saldi" each year. They usually take place in January and July and often offer significant discounts.
Where can I buy Italian delicacies in Rome?
For Italian delicacies, you should visit shops like Roscioli, Volpetti, and Eataly. They offer a wide selection of Italian wines, cheeses, pasta, and more.
🛎️ Where to stay in Rome?
Staying at the MEININGER hotel in Rome city center gives you the opportunity to have the best shopping in Rome experience.
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Address: Via San Martino della Battaglia 16, 00185 Rome, Italy
