Rome is home to dozens of pleasant shopping streets and colourful markets. Many shopping districts have been made pedestrian friendly, and fortunately the city has not yet been completely overrun by oversized department stores and shopping malls.  Some districts specialize in shops featuring the same types of merchandise, making it easy for you to walk from shop to shop comparing prices and quality.

For fashion, you’ll find the best of Italy in Rome. On the streets surrounding the Spanish Steps – Via Condotti, Via Borgognona, Via Frattina and Via del Babuino – there are chic boutiques such as Gucci, Prada and Valentino. While for mid-range and more affordable shopping, you can head to the Via Nazionale or Via de Tritone.

Nowadays more and more shops in Rome stay open all day, but a good number still close for two hours at lunch, and on Sundays and Monday mornings. Also, keep in mind that many close down completely during August, when Eternal City takes a well-earned annual vacation.

And, while cash is always in style, most shops will gladly accept your credit card as well!