Le migliori vie dello shopping a Roma (oltre a Via del Corso)

Rome’s shopping scene extends far beyond the tourist-packed Via del Corso. These authentic streets offer everything from vintage treasures to high-end boutiques, each with its own distinct personality and local following.

Via del Governo Vecchio

The Vintage Treasure Hunt

This narrow medieval street feels like stepping into Rome’s bohemian soul. Cobblestones lead past centuries-old palazzos now housing some of the city’s best vintage and independent boutiques.

The vibe: Artistic, eclectic, and refreshingly authentic. Young Romans mix with savvy tourists hunting for one-of-a-kind pieces. Street musicians often perform near the intersections, adding to the creative atmosphere.

Must-browse stores:

• Vestiti Usati Cinzia: Curated vintage designer pieces from the 1960s-90s
• Omero e Cecilia: Quirky accessories and handmade jewelry by local artisans
• Arsenale: Avant-garde Italian designer clothing at accessible prices
• Pulp: Vintage band t-shirts, retro denim, and music memorabilia

What makes it special: Prices remain reasonable because locals shop here regularly. You’ll find authentic vintage Fendi, Pucci, and Versace mixed with emerging Roman designers. The street’s medieval layout creates intimate shopping nooks perfect for discovering hidden gems.

Best time to visit: Late afternoon when the golden light illuminates the historic facades and shops are fully stocked after morning restocking.

Via Cola di Rienzo

The Local’s Department Store

This broad avenue near Vatican City serves as Rome’s answer to a neighborhood shopping district, where families have shopped for generations.

The vibe: Bustling but never frantic, with a distinctly Roman rhythm. You’ll hear more Italian than English, and shopkeepers remember regular customers’ preferences. The wide sidewalks make browsing comfortable even during busy periods.

Standout shopping:

• Coin: Multi-floor department store with Italian and international brands
• Franchi: Gourmet food emporium that’s been feeding Romans since 1925
• Castroni: Historic coffee roastery with exotic teas and international delicacies
• Bialetti Store: The original stovetop espresso maker in all its iterations

Local secret: The side streets (Via Ottaviano, Via Candia) house fantastic shoe stores and children’s boutiques with prices significantly lower than tourist areas.

Shopping strategy: Start at Piazza del Risorgimento and work your way toward Castel Sant’Angelo, stopping for aperitivo at one of the neighborhood bars where locals gather.

Via del Babuino

Designer Elegance

Connecting Piazza del Popolo to Piazza di Spagna, this ancient Roman road now showcases Italy’s finest fashion heritage alongside international luxury brands.

The vibe: Sophisticated and gallery-like, with beautiful window displays that change seasonally. The street feels like an outdoor fashion museum where even window shopping becomes an aesthetic experience.

Luxury highlights:

• Battistoni: Bespoke tailoring that’s dressed Italian politicians for over a century
• Tad: Cutting-edge Italian menswear with architectural silhouettes
• Mariella Burani: Sophisticated women’s fashion with Roman flair
• Giorgio Sermoneta: Exquisite Italian leather gloves in every color imaginable

Art bonus: The street also houses several high-end art galleries, making it perfect for combining culture with fashion browsing.

Insider tip: Visit during Fashion Week (January/February and September/October) when stores display their most innovative pieces and you might spot fashion insiders evaluating new collections.

Via dei Giubbonari

The Artisan Quarter

This historic street near Campo de’ Fiori maintains its traditional character while housing contemporary Roman fashion talents.

The vibe: Intimate and workshop-like, where you can often see artisans crafting leather goods or jewelry in the back rooms of their boutiques. The narrow street creates a sense of discovery around every corner.

Artisan treasures:

• Ibiz Artigianato in Pelle: Custom leather bags made while you wait
• Le Gallinelle: Handmade clothing using vintage fabrics and traditional techniques
• Temporary Store: Rotating showcase of emerging Roman designers

What’s unique: Many shops offer customization services. You can commission bespoke leather goods, have clothing altered to your measurements, or request unique color combinations for accessories.

Via Nazionale

The Democratic Fashion Street

This grand boulevard represents Rome’s 19th-century ambitions and today offers fashion for every budget and style preference.

The vibe: Cosmopolitan and energetic, reflecting Rome’s role as a modern capital. The wide avenue allows for comfortable strolling while the mix of price points means everyone finds something appealing.

Shopping diversity:

• Rinascente: Rome’s premier department store with rooftop dining
• Zara, H&M, Mango: International chains in beautiful historic buildings
• Local boutiques: Hidden between larger stores, offering unique Italian pieces
• La Feltrinelli: Massive bookstore with English sections and design objects

Architectural bonus: The street showcases late 19th-century Roman architecture, making shopping feel like a historical tour.

Via Margutta

The Artist’s Boutique Street

Once home to Federico Fellini and still attracting creative types, this charming street offers shopping with artistic flair.

The vibe: Quiet and contemplative, lined with ivy-covered buildings and small galleries. Shopping here feels like visiting artist studios rather than commercial stores.

Creative finds:

• Bottega del Marmoraro: Traditional marble-working techniques creating modern pieces
• Antiquarian bookshops: Rare art books and vintage Roman photography
• Small galleries: Often selling unique jewelry and accessories by local artists
• Vintage furniture stores: Mid-century Italian design pieces

Special atmosphere: The street comes alive during the outdoor art exhibition in May and October when artists display their work along the cobblestones.

Trastevere’s Via della Lungaretta

The Bohemian Alternative

This winding street through Rome’s most characterful neighborhood offers eclectic shopping with a distinctly local flavor.

The vibe: Relaxed and authentically Roman, where shopping happens between meal breaks and evening aperitivi. The medieval street layout creates intimate shopping experiences.

Neighborhood treasures:

• Vintage clothing stores: Carefully curated pieces with Roman provenance
• Handmade ceramics: Local artisans creating functional art
• Independent bookshops: Including excellent English-language sections
• Natural beauty products: Locally made soaps and cosmetics using Italian ingredients

Evening magic: The street transforms after dark when restaurants open and shopping becomes part of the broader Trastevere experience of dining and socializing.

Shopping Strategy Tips

Timing your visits: Most Roman stores close for lunch (1-4pm) and reopen until 7:30pm. Plan your route accordingly, using lunch breaks to explore churches or grab quick meals.

Language advantages: Learning basic Italian shopping phrases enhances the experience significantly. Romans appreciate the effort and often provide better service and insider tips.

Considerazioni stagionali: January and July bring sales (saldi) with genuine discounts. Spring (April-May) offers the best weather for street shopping and new seasonal collections.

Payment methods: Many smaller boutiques prefer cash, though most accept cards. Some offer tax-free shopping for non-EU visitors on purchases over €155.

These authentic Roman shopping streets reveal the city’s contemporary character while honoring its historical roots. Each offers distinct experiences that reflect different aspects of Roman life, from aristocratic elegance to bohemian creativity, ensuring every shopper discovers something uniquely Roman to treasure.