SHOPPING
The narrow streets of Venice are lined with beautifully arranged windows that cannot fail to tempt shoppers, and the city has the additional bonus of being truly pedestrianized. Few cities of similar size have such a wide variety of goods to browse through as you explore the fascinating and diverse neighbourhoods. There is still a strong artisan tradition in Venice, and alongside glass and lace you will find high-quality fashion and leather goods, antiques and jewellery.
The greatest concentration of Italian name fashion brands is west of Piazza San Marco on and around Calle Larga XXII Marzo, Calle Vallaresso and Frezzeria. For less high-flying clothes, shoes, accessories and jewellery, hunt around the narrow streets between S. Marco and Rialto, particularly Le Mercerie and around Campo S. Luca.
The Strada Nova is a long street on the Northern part of the city that starts near the train station and is a great place to shop and eat too and explore another part of the city. If you want to shop in an area that has some really unique shops off the beaten track, try the area of San Polo, on the other side of the Rialto.
For the chef and food lover, a visit to the Rialto Fish and produce market is a must! You will see fish so fresh they are still moving on the crushed ice and varieties found only in the Venetian lagoon. The produce is a great option for snacking while walking around the city. Open Tues-Sat (6am-Noon)
There is no shortage of workshops and showrooms full of Murano glass, particularly between S.Marco and Castello and, of course, on Murano itself.
Souvenirs: (some suggestions for truly Venetian gifts)
- Masks – Be careful to shop in a store where the masks are handmade and not cheap looking as they might be imported from China
- Glass – If you don’t mind bargaining, we suggest you go on over to Murano to buy glass as you will see the factory where it is made and the selection is unparallel.
- Paper – The hand made Venetian paper is a work of art in itself and you will find a beautiful variety of objects made also with leather incorporated to chose from in many shops around the city.
- Lace – Burano is the island famous for merletto, but you might not be able to get over to the island, so you can also find shops nearby San Marco with a wonderful variety to choose from.
- Wine and Food – You can find shops that sell the wines of the Veneto region and the shop owners are happy to explain the difference to you. Pasta and sauces of the region can also be found in specialty shops or super markets for you to take home.
There are kiosks and carts located near San Marco and Rialto that sell cheap souvenirs, but most of their items are imported and NOT genuine. So don’t be fooled!
Here are some recommendations for shops that sell really unique and specialty items and they are nice too......
MARKETS
There are a few markets that take place daily, weekly or annually in the city if you are looking for a bargain:
Rialto market – The city’s famous produce & fish market opens Mon-Sat at 6am and closes around Noon. You will find fresh produce, meat and fish here. Get off at the Waterbus stop “Rialto” and cross the bridge and follow your nose.
Lido outdoor market - (Tuesdays 7am – Noon) If you are looking for a bargain, then you have come to the right place. This busy bustling outdoor market is worth the trip over from Venice. Clothing, linens, household items, purses, food, cheeses, produce, toys, plants & flowers, etc.... Take a waterbus over to Lido, and grab the autobus B or C (Located on your far right) and get off at the 3rd stop (along with everyone else) and have money ready to shop shop shop!!
Guidecca market - (Thursdays 7am – Noon) This small market is similar to the Lido one, but good if you can’t make it on Tuesdays. Take the Line# 41 or “82 and get off at Sacca Fisola and follow the flow of people.
Antiques market – Campo S. Maurizio - A small tiny square with vendors set up selling all types of items from glass, stamps, dolls, jewelry, etc... Usually takes place April, mid-Sept. & the week before Christmas.
Christmas market - Campo S. Stefano – If you are looking for a unique gift for the holidays, then come to this campo and peruse the quaint stalls selling all sorts of goodies for your eyes to feast on. Starts 3 weeks before Christmas.
Various outdoor kiosks - Around Carnivale, Easter & Christmas, you will find many sellers have stalls, kiosks, set up all around the area of Rialto (Campo S. Luca, Campo S. Bartolomeo, and along Rialto bridge) and more than usual all along Strada Nova.
Venice has world class shopping and boutiques where names like Versace, Valentino, Pucci, Cavalli, Gucci, Hermes, Prada, Armani, and Ferragamo can be found. But don’t forget to visit some of the unique shops also in this city that make shopping so much fun!!
Select a Catergory:
***WOMEN ^ back to top
As You Like Campiello R. Selvatico, 5671 Cannaregio (between Rialto & Strada Nova) 041.520.9232 Asyoulike@virgilio.it
The only vintage boutique in all of Venice ! Come and check out this hip store and find a hidden YSL, Balenciaga or Gucci gem. Women and Mens clothing, crocodile bags, shoes, accessories, etc...
Jade Martine Frezzeria 1645 S. Marco 041.521.2892
The most exquisite, luxurious and sensual lingerie from Italian and French makers are found in this feminine shop. Treat yourself to something truly special!!
Fiorucci Calle Goldoni – nearby Hotel Bonvecchiati
Replay Jeans, Custo, Miss Sixty, 7, etc... for Women & Men.
Proposte S. Marco, 1894 (Infront of the Fenice Theatre) 041.520.8956 www.proposte-venice.it
Lovely and Unique one of a kind clothing, jewelry and accessories for women in this small charming shop.
Anni Ruggenti Cannaregio, 5779 041.523.8389
You will find young women walking all over the city carrying bags from this shop. Some of the coolest clothes are found here, don’t pass it by.
Metropoli Cannaregio 5644 041.523.6202
Hip stylish clothes for young people. All the latest trends and names.
Pot-Pourri Calle Legranzi, 11/13b 041.974214 www.potpourri.it
This lovely shop has beautiful things for women with discriminating taste. Very different than many of the typical shops you find here in Venice.
La Cuopole 3 locations on Calle Larga XXII Marzo
Name brand designers from Dsquared, Ungaro, Calvin Klein, Gianfranco Ferre, Versace to name a few. Women, Men and children.
Malo S. Marco 2359 – Calle delle Ostreghe 041.5232162
High quality Italian Cashmere and lightweight knits for women and men.
***MEN ^ back to top
York Club 4106/2 Salizada San Luca (nearby Campo S. Luca) 041.522.9926 www.yorkclub.it
Classic & Sports wear for men. A very fun, cool, unique environment makes shopping in here easy. Gant, Nautica, Lacoste, just to name a few of the brands you will find here.
Leale S. Marco, 4462 – Calle Fuseri 041.522.6292
Come discover why all the men of Venice shop at this store. Excellent service and variety make it one of the best around.
Ermenegildo Zegna Bocca di Piazza S. Marco, 1241 041.522.1401
Fine suits, accessories, shoes, all with the classic Italian craftsmanship are what make Zegna a household name.
Al Duca d’ Aosta 2 locations – S. Marco 4922 & 4946 041.5220733
Excellent selection of casual, sporty and elegant wear for men and women, all in 2 large shops along the Mercerie.
Black Watch S. Marco, 4594 041.5231945
This shop caters to the man with fine taste. Excellent service and tailoring make this store worth visiting.
Pal Zileri S. Marco, 4928 Mercerie del Capitello 041.5229020
Exquisite mens clothing and suits tailored with a distinct Italian flair.
***CHILDREN ^ back to top
Pensieri S. Marco 3716/A – Calle della Mandola 041.277.0118
Dolls, Teddy Bears, Games, and much more for the early years.
Laterna Magica Castello, 5379 – Calle della Bande 041.528.1902
Educational toys, didatic games, presents, and curiosities await for your children.
Mammolo S. Marco, 4460 – Calle Fuseri 041.522.6328
Very exclusive babies and childrens wear. Absolutely precious!!
Cacao Cannaregio 5583/86 041.522.9946
Kidswear from 0-14 years.
Primi Sogni Cannaregio 5835 041.523.8154
Everything for babies and children up to 12 years.
Cenerentola Cannaregio 5904 041.522.4090
If you are looking for beautiful shoes for your little ones, look no further....
Signor Blum Dorsoduro, 2840 Campo S. Barnaba 041.5226367 www.signorblum.com
Handmade & handpainted wooden toys with a Venice twist. A wonderful place to find that unique childs’ gift.
***JEWELRY ^ back to top
Fantuzzi Bijou S. Giov. Grisostomo 5756, Cannaregio Tel. 041.522.4036
Gorgeous hair accessories and jewellery at very affordable prices. Just their window will make you stop and look.
Arcobaleno Ponte SS. Apostoli – Cannaregio 5623 Tel. 041.520.3989
Located on this small bridge is one of the loveliest shops where you will find hand made glass beads, jewellery, accessories and bijou made by the women who run this shop. Truly unique pieces and worth seeking out.
ARANDO Arte S. Marco, 4606/A – Calle del Teatro-Goldoni 041.523.9059 www.venicegold.it
Wrist sculptures and jewellery are what make this goldsmith a true artist. One of a kind pieces crafted with extraordinary detail and soul.
Gloria Astolfo Frezzeria, S. Marco 1581 041.5233343 www.gloriastolfo.com
These hand made beaded creations are soo gorgeous, you’ll have a hard time choosing just one. Necklaces, bracelets, petite hand bags, etc…
Le Perle S. Marco 1231 041.5285614 www.leperleve.com
Venetian glass beads and intricate handwork are what make these unique pieces a must have.
Gualti Dorsoduro 3111 Rio Tera Canal 041.5201731 www.gualti.com
This designer has created jewelry like you have never seen before! As he calls them “Dramatic sculptures to be worn”. A true original.
***ACCESSORIES ^ back to top
MAZZON Campiello S. Toma, 2807 (close to the S. Toma waterbus stop) 041.520.3421
This tiny shop hand makes all their belts, purses and accessories. You pick the leather and color and they’ll create it just for you!
True craftsmanship and great quality go into everything they make.
Pagan Piazza S. Marco, 54 (next to the Cafe Florian) 041.520.8924
Purses, leather goods and accessories made using ancient Venetian techniques are what you will find in this shop conveniently located in St. Mark’s Square. Pick up a few lovely gifts to take back home!
Mistero a Venezia Ruga Giuffa 4755, Castello (nearby Campo S. Maria Formosa) 041.241.1405
Direct importers of ethnic jewels, silver, textiles, furnishings, etc.. from Nepal , Tibet , Thailand & Pakistan . Great selection and something for everyone!
Italo Mariani S. Marco, 4775 (nearby the Goldoni Theatre) Tel 041.522.2967 or Ponte Canonica, 4313 041.522.5614
This wonderful shoe store offers the latest styles and at affordable prices. If you want a pair of Italian leather shoes, come here!
Margerie Campiello de la Feltrina 2511/B , S. Marco 041.523.6393 (located on the small bridge)
Hand made purses, bags, accessories for the girly girl. Every changing variety, just like the seasons....
Il Graffo Dorsoduro, 3186 041.2413494
Original leather handmade purses, bags, cell phone accessories and more… all created on site in their studio. Very good prices.
La Parigina S. Marco 727/728 & S. Marco 733/736 041.5226743
A superb selection of shoes and accessories. Churchs, John Lobb, Camper, Timberland, Pirelli, Husky and more….
Venetia Studium S. Marco, 2425 041.5236953 www.venetiastudium.com
Gorgeous silk accessories and things for the home. ‘Fortuny’ lamps can be found here and shipped world wide.
***GIFTS ^ back to top
Le Cadeau Cannaregio, 5669 (between Rialto and S.S. Apostoli) 041.523.5240
The kind of shop for people interested in beautifying their home. Lots of lovely decorative items like, candles, silk flowers, vases, etc....
Ricami Veronica 3821/C – Strada Nova www.ricamiveronica.it
Personalized & customized embroidered aprons, linens, gifts, etc... a unique gift for someone from Italy.
Il Prato Calle delle Ostreghe, 2456/9 (near the Gritti Hotel) 041.523.1148 www.ilpratovenezia.com
Some of the finest handmade paper products, beautiful paper dolls and gifts are to be found here.
Vio Arte S. Marco, 3729 – Calle della Mandola 11-1:30am / 2:30-7pm
Terracotta sculptures, hangings, tokens, all with a Venetian flair. They make their own exclusive paintings and sculptures here.
Il Canovaccio Castello, 5369/70 041.521.0393 www.ilcanovaccio.com
Masks, masks, masks, the most awesome assortment of handmade masks of all varieties are made here. Animals, theatre, venetian, carnivale, fantasy, etc...
Le Botteghe Della Solidarieta S. Marco, 5164 (end of the Rialto bridge) 041.522.7545
Unique items from all over the world can be found on the most famous bridge. Help support this local shop.
ITACA Art Studio Calle delle Bande, 5267/A & S. Lio, 6765 – Castello 041.520.3207 www.itacavenezia.it
A wide choice of prints, fun watercolors, etchings, paintings and nice gifts starting from 5 euro. They ship worldwide. English, French & German spoken.
Ca’ Macana Castello, 4531 & Dorsoduro, 1169 041.5229749
Masks from the movie “Eyes Wide Shut” were created by this famous shop. Unbelievable selection…something for everyone!
Artigiana Carta S. Marco, 1797 – Frezzeria 041.5225606
Workshop dedicated to the art of high quality leather and hand-made paper goods. Craftsmanship is evident here.
Paolo Olbi Calle della Mandola – S. Marco 3653 041.5285025
Leather bound, hand-made stationary in a charming shop. Exceptional quality make this a worth wile shop to visit for gifts for your friends, family and yourself.
***SPECIALTY SHOPS ^ back to top
I Tre Mercanti 5364, Castello (located on the bridge in Campo della Guerra) 041.522.2901 www.itremercanti.it
Let’s face it Italy is mostly about the food, so come here and find Truffles, Wines, Chocolates, Sauces, etc...to take back home and remember your wonderful trip to Italia!!
Dolceamaro Campo S. Canciano, 6051 Cannaregio (near the Miracoli Church) 041.523.8708
Wine & Chocolates are waiting for you here!! Indulges your senses and get a little something to take to take back home. Free tastings as well!!!
Peter’s Tea House 4553/A Cannaregio (Santi Apostoli) 041.528.9776 www.peters-teahouse.it
English people look no further if you want a cuppa. This is the only place to get a proper tea in the city. Wonderful fresh selection (over 150 to choose from) in a cozzy environment. Come in and sit down and relax.
“I Muschieri” – Profumeria S. Marco, 1177 – Frezzeria
A small tiny shop that carries some of the loveliest unique perfumes in all of the city. Indulge your senses.....
Arredamenti Dolcetta (2 locations) Calle Fuseri or Salizzada S. Lio, 5672 041.522.6923
If you are looking for a chess set to bring back from Italy, than look no further! This shop sells the best selection around.
Cargasacchi S. Marco – Mercerie dell’Orologio, 265 041.523.4557
Gorgeous wooden lighters, cuttlery, and profumery await you. Definitely a place to go if looking for a truly unique gift.
Art for serious people gallery S. Marco, 1801 041.523.9884 www.dinodezorzi.com
This former Gondolier has taken his love of art to a whole different level. Really fun and innovative. It will be hard to choose your favorite.
Domus S. Marco, 4746 041.522.6259
The Italians are known for their unique style in all things for the home. Come and see what they are talking about at this large store with something for everyone.
Vizio Virtu S. Polo, 2898/A 041.2750149 www.viziovirtu.com
Chocolate so delicious you will come back day after day to sample a new flavour. Jasmine Tea, Mimosa, Caramels, Raspberry creme, etc…Yet so beautiful you wont want to eat them!!
Venetia S. Marco, 1286 – Frezzeria 041.5224426 www.ballodeldoge.co
Transport yourself back to the golden days of Venice by stepping into this artisan shop. Masks, dolls, costumes, fabrics and art objects that are inspired by the rich history of this city.
***EYEWEAR ^ back to top
Ottica Urbani S. Marco, 1280 (Behind S. Mark’s Square on the Frezzeria) Tel. 041.522.4140 www.otticaurbani.com
This family run shop has been around since the 1940’s, offering it’s customers products with a high level of originality and craftsmanship. And are famous for their 1950’s inspired thick frames. They are always updated on all the newest styles and technology.
Micromega S. Marco 2436 – Santa Maria del Giglio 041.2960765 www.micromegaottica.com
“Art of Glasses” – custom made in the heart of Venice.
***WINES ^ back to top
Dai do Cancari S. Marco, 3455 – Calle della botteghe (Campo S. Stefano) 041.241.0634 Closed Sundays
Wine lovers should come to this shop and sample the wine before they buy and learn a bit more.
Dai Fradei S. Marco, 3722 - Calle della Mandola 041.241.3632
A beautiful wine boutique run by Daniele. Let him help you make the right selection. You’ll be glad you did.