Are you ready to dive into the vibrant shopping scene of Rome? Look no further! I’ve spent years exploring the city’s hidden gems and bustling streets, discovering the best places to shop for everything from high-end fashion to vintage treasures. This guide is packed with insider knowledge to help you find exactly what you’re looking for, and avoid any shopping faux pas.
Where to Shop in Rome
Rome is a shopper’s paradise, with a diverse range of neighborhoods catering to different tastes and budgets. Let’s explore some of the most popular shopping destinations:
Spanish Steps – Chic and Stylish
The area surrounding the Spanish Steps is a fashionista’s dream! You’ll find a dizzying array of high-end brands like Gucci, Prada, and Armani, as well as unique local boutiques, such as Fausto Santini. Don’t be afraid to venture into the smaller, less expensive shops in the area – there’s something for everyone!
Tip: This is where Romans love to shop, so expect to see plenty of stylish locals strutting their stuff! Check out my detailed guide to shopping near the Spanish Steps for more information on specific streets and great places to stop for a break.
Piazza Navona – Vintage Charm and Local Flair
Piazza Navona is a breathtaking square, but the real shopping treasures lie on the streets leading away from it.
Via del Governo Vecchio is a favorite of mine, filled with fun boutiques and a vibrant atmosphere. You’ll discover plenty of vintage shops and charming cafes along the way.
Via dei Coronari is another must-visit street. Once famous for its antique dealers, it still offers a delightful mix of shops and eateries.
Tip: Meander through these charming streets for a half or even a whole day – it’s a wonderful way to experience the authentic side of Roman shopping.
Monti – Local Charm and Historic Treasures
Monti is a hidden gem for those seeking unique local shopping. You won’t find any big chain stores here, just quaint cobblestone streets, charming cafes, and quirky boutiques.
Tip: Explore Via del Boschetto, Via dei Serpenti, Via Urbana, and Via Panisperna for the best shopping in Monti. You might even stumble upon a historic antique shop!
Vatican City – Upscale Shopping and Grand Architecture
Via Cola di Rienzo, stretching between the Vatican and Piazza del Popolo, offers a mix of bigger brand names like Tiffany’s and the Coin department store. However, venture into the residential part of the Prati neighborhood, and you’ll uncover cute and innovative shops tucked away in the side streets.
Tip: Explore the parallel streets like Via dei Gracchi and Via degli Scipioni and the little cross streets for a truly unique shopping experience. The neighborhood is charmingly upscale, with grand architecture and a different side of Rome to discover.
Rome Shopping Guide – When to Shop
Sale Season – Your Chance to Score Great Deals
In Italy, sales (called Saldi) are held twice a year – once in winter and once in summer. The exact dates depend on the region, but all shops in a given region must start and end their sales on the same day.
Summer sales usually begin on the first Saturday of July and run through most of August.
Winter sales typically begin on the first Saturday in January and continue through most of February.
Shop Hours – Be Aware of Siesta Time
Traditional Italian shop hours are a little different from what you might be used to:
- Shops typically open around 3-4 pm and close around 7-8 pm.
- From Tuesday to Friday, shops are open in the mornings from around 9:30 or 10 am until about 1 pm. Then they close for “siesta” and reopen around 3 or 4 pm, closing again around 7-8 pm.
- On Saturday mornings, shops are open from about 10 am to 1 pm. Then they close until Monday afternoon.
Tip: Keep in mind that shops are generally closed for “lunch” from about 1-3/4 pm, and from Saturday afternoon to Monday afternoon.
Holidays – Plan Your Shopping Around Closed Days
In Italy, holidays are not just for shopping! Shopkeepers take a break and shops are closed. Here are some key holiday closures:
- The day after Christmas.
- New Year’s Day.
- Easter Monday.
- May 1 (European “Labor Day”).
Rome Shopping Guide – Where to Buy Shoes in Rome
Rome is a shoe lover’s paradise! The Spanish Steps area boasts a fantastic selection of famous brands like Prada, Gucci, Tods, and Fratelli Rossetti. However, don’t miss the local gems like Fausto Santini, known for their soft leather shoes that fit like gloves.
Tip: For stylish and well-made shoes at a more affordable price, consider Spanish brands like Geox and Camper, with shops all around Rome, including the major shopping districts.
Here are some of my favorite shoe boutiques:
- Scarpe Diem: Located behind Piazza Navona, on Via di Parione 40, their motto is “useless but beautiful shoes,” and they live up to it!
- Fausto Santini: Found on Via Frattina, this chic boutique offers super well-made shoes with gorgeous leather and equally stunning bags.
- Fausto Santini Outlet: Run by Giacomo Santini, Fausto’s father, this outlet is located near the Monti neighborhood on Via Cavour 103.
- Mencucci Boutique: Right next door to the Santini outlet, this boutique also sells clothes.
- L’Autre Chose: Located near the Pantheon, this boutique offers fabulous and stylish shoes that are also comfortable and last forever. Find them at Piazza Campo Marzio 9-11.
Rome Shopping Guide – Things to Keep in Mind
Shopping in Rome can be a unique experience. Here are some tips to help you navigate the local shopping culture:
- Customer service: Don’t be surprised if you encounter less attentive or even seemingly “rude” sales staff. In Italy, customer service isn’t always top priority. Ask for help if you need it, and remember that sometimes you’ll find friendly and helpful staff, but not always.
- Browsing: In some old-fashioned shops, merchandise isn’t displayed, so you’ll have to ask for what you want. While this might seem unusual, don’t worry if you ask to see something and then decide not to buy it – it’s routine for them.
- Trying on clothes: In some shops, you might not be allowed to try on clothes, especially items that are easily damaged or stained. This may seem unusual, but it’s slowly changing as larger stores and department stores become more accommodating.
- Returns and exchanges: Returns can be challenging in Rome. Getting your money back is almost impossible, and exchanges often require a lengthy process. If you’re able to return an item, it will most likely be for a credit in the same store. Remember to keep your receipts and original packaging, and ensure you return items within a short time frame.
Tip: Be cautious when buying items in Rome, knowing that returns are unlikely.
