Summary
Whether you want to purchase artisanal souvenirs or are interested in investing in fine jewelry, specialty foods, art, or fashion, Italy is a shopper’s paradise. The following guide highlights artisan shops and specialty boutiques where you can find quality merchandise rather than mass-produced items.
Where to Shop in Assisi
Assisi is a popular hill town in Umbria with numerous shops available. While many sell common souvenirs near Saint Francis Basilica, unique artisan boutiques offer gifts such as art, fashion, children’s clothing, home goods, and gourmet delicacies. Here are some recommendations:
- Artestampa, Via S Francesco, 10C: A great place for beautiful woodcut prints of Assisi.
- Studio Assisi, Via Fortini 7: Offers an array of funky clothing in a charming tiny boutique.
- Il Lavandeto di Assisi, Corso Mazzini 16: A family-run shop specializing in lavender products from their local farm.
Where to Shop in Florence
Florence offers a vibrant shopping scene for artisan crafts, luxury fashions, and exquisite leather goods. Key shopping districts include Via Tornabuoni, Via della Vigna Nuova, and Via dei Calzaiuoli. Many inexpensive souvenir stands surround the Central Market, and further across the Arno, smaller specialty shops abound. Notable boutiques include:
- Zecchi, Via dello Studio, 19R: Renowned for beautiful handmade stationery, ideal for gifts or keepsakes.
- Santa Croce Leather Workshop, Via S. Giuseppe, 5R: Offers the finest leather goods in Florence, associated with the Monastery of Santa Croce.
Where to Shop in Lucca
Lucca is renowned for its artisan workshops, offering exquisite jewelry, fashion, and delicious local specialties. The main shopping street, Via Fillungo, showcases upscale shops while affordable boutiques can be found on Via Santa Lucia and Via Buia. Recommended shops include:
- Cioccolateria Caniparoli, Via San Paolino 96: A delightful chocolate shop for sweet indulgences.
- Edison, Via Cenami at Via Roma: A bibliophile’s haven, specializing in Italian literature but featuring some English titles.
Where to Shop in Naples
Naples is famous for its nativity workshops, particularly along Via San Gregorio Armeno, where you can find stunning figurines for Italian nativity scenes, or presepi. The Galleria Umberto represents a charming shopping center while Via Toledo features modern fashion boutiques. Notable shops in Naples include:
- Mario Talarico, Vico Due Porte a Toledo 4/b: Discover exquisite handmade umbrellas.
- Maurizio Brandi, Via Domenico Morelli 9: Specializes in unparalleled antiques.
Where to Shop in Perugia
Perugia, the largest city in Umbria, boasts shops ranging from specialty stores to artisan workshops to high-end boutiques. Prominent streets include Via dei Priori and Corso Cavour. Additionally, Perugia is renowned for baci chocolates, sold at various locations. Some recommended shops include:
- Maria Antonietta Taticchi, Via dei Priori, 70: An artist offering exquisite ceramic pieces.
- Sartoria Camiceria Lemmi, Via Guglielmo Marconi, 59: Where you can obtain custom-made, high-quality men’s suits.
Where to Shop in Rome
Rome’s shopping scene includes designer boutiques, chain stores, flea markets, and vibrant souvenir shops. Luxury shopping thrived near the Spanish Steps and Via Condotti, while Via del Corso features chain establishments. Recommended markets and shops include:
- Porta Portese, Piazza di Porta Portese: Rome’s most popular flea market.
- Chez Dédé, Via di Monserrato 35: A trendy boutique offering a mix of artworks, home decor, and clothing.
Where to Shop in Sorrento
Sorrento is a picturesque town on the Amalfi Peninsula known for artisanal goods. Recommended shops include:
- Augusto & Luca’s Workshop, Via Fuoro 50: Famous for handcrafted inlaid wood products.
- Corium Sandals, Via Degli Archi 20: Offers a wide selection of made-to-order sandals.
Where to Shop in Venice
Venice attracts tourists drawn to its historic shops selling authentic masks and glasswork, contrasting with souvenir stands offering cheap items. Noteworthy shops include:
- Papier Maché, Calle Lunga Santa Maria Formosa, 5174/B: Renowned for high-quality Venetian masks.
- Vetreria Artistica Archimede Seguso, Fondamenta Serenella, 18: A family-run glass workshop established in 1397.
