VIA CONDOTTI – VIA FRATTINA – VIA DEL BABUINO
Perhaps the most famous shopping district in Rome is the area surrounding Piazza di Spagna, at the base of the Spanish Steps. Tourists flock here to see the flagship stores of Italian designer lines like Prada, Gucci, Etro, Dolce & Gabbana, Miu Miu, Bottega Veneta, Missoni, Versace, Tod's.
VIA DEI CONDOTTI
Parallel streets connecting via del Corso and Piazza di Spagna, have the big firms of Italian and international fashion from Prada to Valentino, Hermes, Trussardi, Moschino and more... even if you can't afford shopping there, don't miss a stroll in the area to admire the displays in the windows.
VIA FRATTINA
Via Frattina, via della Croce, and via Vittoria. There's a bookstore (called the Anglo American Bookstore) that sells book in English in via della Vite. As you walk around the city center you'll find plenty of interesting stores also around the Pantheon and piazza San Lorenzo in Lucina area.
VIA DEL BABUINO
Is a very elegant street, connecting Piazza del Popolo and Piazza di Spagna. There you can find designer shoes, clothes, jewelries, high end antique stores, a couple of book stores (including the Touring Club, where you can find great maps and books about Rome, Italy and more) and several famous brand boutiques, including Emporio Armani.
VIA COLA DI RIENZO
Via Cola di Rienzo, the commercial heart of the Prati neighborhood just north of the Vatican, is a popular shopping destination for Romans. Its sidewalks are quite large, so many people and families take a stroll on this street, especially on weekends. There are many small and some spacious shops selling fashions, bags, shoes etc. Via Cola di Rienzo offers good quality clothes and accessories for reasonable (though not cheap) prices.
The largest Castroni store in Rome sells all kinds of packaged Italian specialities (and worldwide) foods such as black seppia pasta or chocolate with red pepper (peperoncino) . Quality Italian coffee and cakes can be taken at the bar. You can also buy coffee (ground or in beads) to take home with you.
Close to Castroni, there is a gourmet grocery store called Franchi, which shouldn't be missed if you intend to bring home some Parmigiano cheese, dry porcini mushrooms or other specialties. They will vacuum pack products for you (ask for "sottovuoto" = vacuum pack). Franchi is truly a feast for the eye and the palate, and you can stop there for a quick lunch (you'll have to consume what you eat standing, because there are a few tables, but no chairs). Their food is very good, and you can also order delicious take out there.
MONTI
Head to vibrant Monti for antique workshops, vintage markets (weekends only) and emerging designers ateliers!
CASTEL ROMANO DESIGNER OUTLET
If what you are looking for are good deals, let us know. This gorgeous open air shopping mall has most international and Italian designer shops. You can find your favourite brands at 30% to 70% off all year round. Its not in town and we’ll need to arrange with a private car or a shuttle. Worth the visit!