What to Buy in Italy

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When shopping for souvenirs or gifts in Italy, our top recommendations are rooted in the country's rich cultural heritage, artisan craftsmanship, and renowned culinary traditions.

We love to shop when in Italy, and usually bring back too many souvenirs. Our favorites are things that we actually use, and they bring us joy each time we use them.

We might buy a colourful leather cases for eyeglasses, a new wallet, a cooking utensils, scarves, a calendar for the wall, a handbag, spices, chocolate... Things that always remind us on lovely Italy.

my #1 go to is silk scarves (or I guess if you're buying for a man, a tie. If anyone wears those anymore). Flat, lovely, and weigh almost nothing

  • small leather items are a very good deal. I never leave Italy without a new purse, and there are so many choices, so it's not a boring thing to buy. And you can buy super cute and colourful ones for 10- 20 Euro for a young woman back at home that will be fashionable but won't be like anything she can get there
  • marble . . . yes, it's heavier than silk or leather, but you can buy small items like bottle-stoppers or herb-sized mortar and pestles. Or a million other things

First, consider purchasing a bottle of Italian wine or limoncello, which captures the essence of Italy. You can also delight any foodie with authentic extra virgin olive oil from Tuscany or a selection of dried pasta and sauces that bring Italian flavours to your kitchen.

Aged balsamic vinegar from Modena is another standout, offering a rich taste that elevates any dish. I personally loved picking up some exquisite Murano glass from Venice - each piece is a testament to centuries-old glassblowing techniques. Leather goods from Florence, like belts or handbags, also make wonderful gifts; their quality and design are exceptional.

Lastly, Italian ceramics, particularly those from the Amalfi Coast or Deruta, bring a splash of color and craftsmanship into any home. These treasures offer a slice of Italy’s charm and will always evoke fond memories of your travels.

A scented soap bar (wrapped)

A scented soap wrapped into colourful paper could be a great souvenir from Italy!

Large natural soaps packed in colourful paper is another great idea for gift from Italy. You'll find them in stores known as "erboristeria", selling natural cosmetics and other goods. Soaps are so divine, scented and packed in beautiful packaging! If you find yourself in Florence, visit Erboristeria De Herbore (Via del Proconsolo 43R) and get on of these amazing soaps for your or your dear ones. Their scent will remind you of Italy when you go back home!

Panettone - sweet Christmas bread

Tre Marie offers a huge choice of soft panettones

Starting from the end of November, stalls at shops and artisan bakeries start to fill with pannetones, set in beautiful boxes or nicely wrapped. This sweet bread in the shape of dome is popular Christmas treat all over Italy, despite the fact that it originates from Milan, where it was first baked.

We always like to taste delicious panettone from artisan bakeries when in Italy. If you find yourself in Milan, go to Tre Marie Caffetteria/Store (Corso Venezia 2), situated a short walk from the Duomo (near San Babila Metro). Once there choose among many panettone flavours, from classic with candied citrus/raisins, with pistachio cream, chocolate drops and custard cream... The prices start from €20 for 750g panettone.

We tried their panettone enriched with lemon and almond paste - it's super soft and tastes amazing! This year we grabbed it for only €11, as their panettone goes on sale (up to 50%) after the New Year! Panettone is no longer just made in Milan, so you'll find bakeries all over Italy making this sweet bread.

You'll find a huge collection of quality panettones in Rome's Rinascente Department Store (Via del Tritone 61), close to the Spanish Steps. Panettone makes an ideal gift to the food lovers!

Plan You Travel to Italy

Spending 3 Days in Florence
Best Place to Stay in Rome
Best Ways to Visit the Uffizi Gallery