Shopping

Shopping in Italy can be a varied and rewarding experience especially given the Italian reputation for stylish high-quality goods. Not all shopping pleasure is confined to the big stores and chic boutiques of course, there is plenty of pleasure to be had, and bargains to be sought in the local antique and speciality markets.

Here are a few that you might like to try;

Antique markets

For those who would like to take home a unique and lasting reminder of their time in Italy there are plenty of antique markets offering almost anything you care to think of.

Lucca The third Sunday of every month, and the previous Saturday, in Piazza San Giusto and Piazza Antelminelli. (On the last Saturday and Sunday of the month, in the same squares and streets there is an arts and crafts market).
Barga 2nd Sunday of month.
Camaiore 2nd Sunday of month.
Pietrasanta 1st Sunday of month
Viareggio Last Sunday of month
Serravalle Pistoiese Last Sunday of month

Weekly Markets

Weekly local markets are a wonderful source of local produce and provide the perfect opportunity to experience Italian life and practice the language.

Lucca - Wednesday and Saturday a.m.
Bagni di Lucca - Wednesday and Saturday a.m.
Barga - Saturday a.m.
Camaiore - Friday a.m.
Capannori - Friday a.m.
Castelnuovo Garfagnana - Thursday a.m.
Fornaci di Barga - Friday a.m.
Forte dei Marmi - Wednesday a.m.
Massarosa - Tuesday a.m.
Pietrasanta - Thursday a.m
Torre Del Lago - Friday a.m
Viareggio - Thursday a.m.

Designer factory outlets.

Tuscany has a range of designer stores and factory outlets offering savings of up to 60% on clothes and accessories.

Prada - factory shop at Montevarchi open every day.
Gucci - factory outlet at Incisa open Monday to Saturday
Fendi - factory outlet at Incisa open Monday to Saturday
Armani - factory outlet at Incisa open Monday to Saturday
Dolce & Gabbana - factory outlet at Incisa open Monday to Saturday

Visit The Florence Tourist Information Office for more details or see In Tuscany for a shopping guide.