I remember reading the Merchant of Venice and wondering why shopping in Venice was so famous even back in the medieval days. After a few movies and a lot of stories, I understood why. The beautiful Venice finds its place in each traveller’s bucket list as the most awe-inspiring and breathtaking cities on earth.

When I look at pictures of Venice, I want to be in them. I want to be in the city at least for a day. Maybe it is the people sitting in gondolas looking so happy, the colourful buildings, the old Venetian architecture, or the inspiration it gave Leonardo da Vinci. The narrow enclosed streets have a way of containing worlds within themselves. One such world inside Venice is shopping. After having attracted tourists for ages, it has also developed a vast network of shops to provide for them.

When you go to Venice, remember to take it all in. Here are a few places that will help you take a bit of Venice home. For more expertise, visit Pickyourtrail to plan a trip to Venice.

T Fondaco dei Tedeshi:

Situated on the glimmering banks of the Grand Canal, T Fandaco dei Tedeshi is a luxurious supermarket that is a must visit. It is a rooftop beauty that gives you a splendid view of the bridges and the city itself. At any point, only 70 people are allowed inside so you will have to book your visit fifteen minutes in advance.

Originally built in 1228, the building served as a base to soldiers, generals and Napoleon himself. Over time it has evolved along with the city.  The whole structure bears so much history of the city, making it a landmark shopping centre.

La Bauta:

La Bauta is the Venetians’ go-to shop when it comes to masks. They are a rage because of the city’s history with Masquerade balls. You can find masquerade ball masks, costumes and all kinds of Halloween get-ups here. Get here even if you aren’t interested in buying any masks. The elaborate designs and fashionable masks will do their work in convincing you. The shop makes up a big portion of shopping in Venice.

I Tre Macenti:

Food is an extremely essential part of shopping. Make that a quick bite before you head out to a long day of shopping. Make that a dessert ..mm..Tiramisu. In I Tre Macenti you can have the best tiramisu in the world! Every bite melts in your mouth and melts you inside. People sometimes go there thrice a day to try out different flavours. Best paired with their heavenly coffee.

Murano glass jewellery:

Venice is a hub for glass jewellery – has been and will continue to be for a long time now. Glass beads, watches, bracelets, necklaces, earrings produced here have all found their way into the international market. They might sound simple but the work of these artists are exquisite and stunningly perfect. Check out the in-demand Murano Glass Crystals. Carry a beautiful souvenir home from here!

The Merchant of Venice:

The Merchant of Venice is a cute little shop that is a paradise of scents. It celebrates Venice and its culture by looking and smelling like the miniature version of Venice. Its founders decided to make their scents in lines with the richness of the city and keep them reasonably priced. When you step out, I assure you that your bags will have the most special and memorable fragrances. You could also make your own perfume here.

Gioielleria Eredi Javon:

Gioielleria Erdi Javon’s shop is a jewellery dreamland. Located close to the Rialto bridge, it is a great shop to buy gifts and souvenirs. If you’re on your honeymoon, this is a great place to splurge on your loved one. Cameo rings and pendants are fast selling here. The windows are artistically decorated with corals and crystals. Heirloom brooches, earrings and Italy’s finest works await you inside. If you’re in Venice, shop here and leave feeling like a Victorian royal.

Torrefaziano Cannaregio:

Nor an easy name to pronounce, neither an easy place to spot, Terrefaziano Cannaregio will be remembered by forever for its coffee. They sell self-roasted coffee beans that you could taste by brewing your own espresso or cappuccino there. You could sit there all day and cozy up. The shop also has a great range of pastries, parfaits, tiramisu, croissants and cakes that you could munch on.

Gmenier:

This is a pretty shop situated in the San Polo locality of Venice. The brand took handcrafted shoes to a different level with the kind of class they exhibit. Shoes and footwear have always been a defining factor in the dress codes of women in Venice. Founded by two women, this little shop is known for making sturdy and bold shoes that fit the city’s conditions.

Drogheria Mascari:

Drogheria Mascari is a fine little shop situated by the Rialto bridge. It specializes in having the finest groceries. They sell spices that are central to every Italian household. They also sell wonderful wines of the country. It is an excellent place for travellers to shop at because it feels like a mini Italy inside.

The Lista di Spagna:

Also called ‘The way into Venice’, this square is the most tourist-thronged place in Venice. Here you will find stalls, vendors and small shops of all kind. You can also find galleries, restaurants lined in artful buildings. Surrounded by historical spots, it is a calm environment to shop in.

Calle Larga XXII Marzo:

This street overlooks pretty Baroque buildings at both ends, making it one of the most photographed spots. It is the most romantic and the most luxurious shopping area in all of Venice. With so much history inscribed on each wall, Calle Larga XXII Marzo has lines of shops that you could gaze at all day. Window shopping is very much welcome here too. While you’re exploring, consider checking out Venice trip packages to add more excitement and convenience to your visit!

Intrigued by what Italy has to offer? Book a trip with Pickyourtrail or choose from this list of amazing itineraries.

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