Venice shopping is an experience like no other. The city is known for its luxury boutiques, charming street markets, and vibrant fairs and exhibitions. Whether you’re looking to indulge in some high-end designer shopping or hunt for unique souvenirs, Venice has something to offer for every type of shopper.
Shopping Malls and Commercial Centers
Centro Commerciale Auchan Mestre
This is the largest shopping mall in the city, located just outside of Venice in the mainland district of Mestre. It features over 150 shops and a wide variety of restaurants and cafes. To reach Centro Commerciale Auchan Mestre, you can take the bus from Piazzale Roma or the train from Venice Santa Lucia station. Allow at least a half-day to explore all that the mall has to offer.
Shopping Districts or Neighborhoods
San Polo
San Polo is one of the most charming shopping districts in Venice. The narrow streets are lined with small boutiques, art galleries, and craft shops. You can also find a wide variety of traditional Venetian souvenirs such as Murano glass, masks, and textiles. To reach San Polo, take the vaporetto (water bus) to the Rialto Bridge stop. Allow at least a couple of hours to explore the area.
Cannaregio
Cannaregio is another charming neighborhood that is known for its traditional shops and craft workshops. Here you can find a wide variety of local products such as textiles, ceramics, and jewelry. To reach Cannaregio, take the vaporetto to the Ca’ d’Oro stop. Allow at least a couple of hours to explore the area.
Luxury Shopping
Calle Larga XXII Marzo
Calle Larga XXII Marzo is the most famous street for luxury shopping in Venice. The street is home to many high-end boutiques and designer shops such as Gucci, Prada, and Louis Vuitton. To reach Calle Larga XXII Marzo, take the vaporetto to the San Marco Vallaresso stop. Allow at least a couple of hours to explore the street.
Street Markets
Rialto Market
Rialto Market is one of the oldest and most famous street markets in Venice. Here you can find a wide variety of fresh produce, seafood, and traditional Venetian souvenirs. To reach Rialto Market, take the vaporetto to the Rialto Mercato stop. Allow at least an hour to explore the market.
Campo del Ghetto Nuovo
Campo del Ghetto Nuovo is a small square that is home to a daily street market. Here you can find a wide variety of traditional Venetian products such as textiles, ceramics, and jewelry. To reach Campo del Ghetto Nuovo, take the vaporetto to the Guglie stop. Allow at least an hour to explore the market.
Fairs and Exhibitions
Venice Carnival
The Venice Carnival is one of the most famous fairs and exhibitions in the city. The carnival is held annually in February and features a wide variety of events such ascostumed parades, masquerade balls, and live music performances. Many shops and vendors also set up stands selling traditional Venetian masks and costumes. The main locations for the carnival are Piazza San Marco and Rialto Bridge. Allow at least a full day to fully experience the carnival.
Art Biennale
The Venice Art Biennale is an international contemporary art exhibition that is held every two years in the city. The exhibition features works by artists from all over the world and is held in various venues throughout Venice, including the Giardini, the Arsenale, and various palaces and churches. The Art Biennale is a must-see for art lovers and allows at least a full day to explore the various venues.
Overall, Venice shopping offers a unique and diverse experience for all types of shoppers. From luxury boutiques and designer shops to charming street markets and traditional craft workshops, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Be sure to allow enough time to explore all the different shopping options and take in the beauty of the city while you shop.
