The Ultimate Italian Shopping Guide: What We Bought During Our Trip to Italy

Italy, a country synonymous with style, gastronomy, and unparalleled craftsmanship, offered us an unforgettable shopping experience. From the historical streets of Florence to the bustling markets of Rome, every purchase was a story, a memento of our Italian journey. Here’s a guide based on what we bought and what we loved.

Picture of Idralia, from Santa Maria Novella’s website

Santa Maria Novella

Our exploration led us to the revered Santa Maria Novella, one of the world's oldest pharmacies, where we indulged in the Idralia Face Cream and Acqua di Rose. The Idralia Face Cream is a testament to the blend of tradition and innovation. It’s designed to boost the natural hydrolipidic balance of the skin, making it more moisturized, supple, and vital. Enriched with water and Damask Rose extract, it brings moisturizing and restorative properties with the elegant Rosa Gardenia fragrance​​​​. Above all, the fragrance is heavenly and I love putting it on before bed. You can, of course, buy this in the US through their website, but prices are cheaper and you can try the products before you buy in Italy.

Already drank half :P

Limoncello

No trip to Italy is complete without bringing back some Limoncello. This lemon liqueur, a staple of Italian dining, is a refreshing reminder of the Amalfi coast’s sunny cliffs. Best served chilled, Limoncello encapsulates the zest of Italy in every sip. It's widely available across markets and liquor stores in Italy, making it an easy find for any traveler.

Italian Wine

Italian wine, known globally for its rich variety and quality, was a must on our list. From the robust Chiantis of Tuscany to the crisp Pinot Grigios of the Veneto region, we found incredible selections in local markets. Italian wine offers an oenophile's delight, with each region presenting its unique grape varietals and winemaking traditions. You don’t necessarily need a “fancy” bottle (although there’s nothing wrong with getting more expensive wine in Italy) - we opted for bottles of wine that costs 5 euros and they were perfectly fine for our taste.

Balsamic Vinegar

In Rome, we bought a small bottle of Modena Balsamic Vinegar, a condiment that embodies the essence of Italian cuisine. The complex flavors and rich history make it a versatile addition to any dish, from salads to steaks and even desserts. Authentic balsamic vinegar, especially the aged varieties, is a culinary gem worth exploring. These are perfect for souvenirs and gifts for friends and family. We bought 5 miniature bottles for our friends back home.

Truffle Oils

I just couldn’t pass up on the infamous truffle oils. These were relatively easy to get and not as expensive as I thought. Italy is especially known for their white truffles, so make sure to try it and grab a bottle of white truffle oil! These have been so delightful to use while cooking - the aroma is strong, so you only need a couple drops to elevate even the most mundane dishes.

Pepperoncino

Weirdly, pepperoncino is not easy to get where I live. I always try to get them while at Whole Foods, but even that is often a miss. Naturally, I was delighted to see a bottle of pepperoncino during my souvenir shopping spree and immediately grabbed a couple to use back home. I love adding a little spice when making pasta dishes and these are perfect to add a little kick.

Shopping Tips for Italy

• Plan Your Purchases: Italy's regions offer unique products, from Tuscany's leather goods to Venice's glassware. Research beforehand to make the most of your shopping experience.

• Look for Authenticity: For products like balsamic vinegar and Limoncello, authenticity is key. Look for DOP (Denominazione di Origine Protetta) labels for guaranteed quality and origin.

• Tax Refunds: Non-EU residents can benefit from tax-free shopping. If your purchases are over 154.95 EUR, merchants will often ask you if you need tax refund and fill out the forms for you. The merchants will need your passport to fill out the forms, so keep a picture of your passport in your phones! Keep these forms and effortlessly file for a tax refund at the airport for 13-15% back.