Shopping in Rome

Shopping Rome

Rome has always been a cosmopolitan city. In the last 2000 years, it has acted as a center of trade and commerce, and awed the world with its culture and its class. This is as true today as it was in Caesar’s time—except now, it is not so much a world power as a style leader.

And this is no more evident than in Rome’s shopping districts. Tourists can pick from no less than five major shopping hubs.

The first is found near the Spanish Steps on Via de Condotti, and is called Piazza di Spagna. This entire stretch is full of designer labels where one item can put one back several thousand euros. However many feel that the quality and bragging rights that they get from owning the latest Armani, Prada, Versace, Dolce and Gabbana, Gucci are worth every cent.

Along the Via del Corso, which connects Piazza del Popolo and Piazza Venezia, true stylistas will enjoy browsing through the wares of high-end shops like the Ferrari flagship store and Swarowski Crystal.

Other fashion-savvy shoppers will be happier with the selections at Viale Marconi and Porta Portese, which feature younger and trendier clothes. It is close to the Colosseum (a mere 15 minutes away) and can be accessed via the Metro Line B to Marconi.

However, bargain hunters will find affordable yet interesting and beautiful items at the Travestere district. This area is filled with stalls – and the great thing is that shoppers are expected to haggle for lower prices. Shoppers may also find excellent deals at the Porta Portese, the flea market that is held every Sunday from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Food lovers should schedule a trip to the Piazza San Cosimato Food Market, if only to watch the banter between shoppers and vendors. Another popular food market is located at the Piazza Vittorio, where one can find a dazzling array of fruits, vegetable, meat, and fish.

Art collectors should head to the Via del Governo Vecchio, where they can find the Piazza Navona. This area is lined with galleries and antique stores. Cineastes can also visit the film and cinema shop in this area.

Shopping in Rome