Best Shops in Rome’s Trastevere
One of Rome’s most popular neighborhoods with locals and tourists alike, Trastevere simultaneously displays the best and the worst that the Eternal City has to offer. You can stumble upon a decades-old workshop producing authentic handmade goods, and next door you might find a tourist trap selling cheap replicas. It happens in all metropolitan cities, and the same can be said for restaurants and bars. What matters is that you know where to shop.
Italy excels at many things: fashion and design are among them. Usually, following a local’s advice is a good starting point. Here is where to shop the best of the best in Trastevere.
Lungaretta 121
Via della Lungaretta, 121
Lungaretta 121
As you step off the H bus in Piazza Sonnino, ready to make your way through the streets of Trastevere, your attention will inevitably be caught by the colorful window of Lungaretta 121. Displaying womenswear of any kind and for all occasions, from casual to elegant, from dresses to shoes to scarves to pants, there is something that will appeal to everybody, from younger to older women.
Carlo Cecchini
Via della Lungaretta, 65
carlocecchini.com
A stone’s throw away, just on the other side of Piazza Giuditta Tavani Arquati, are two adjacent Carlo Cecchini stores, offering authentic made in Italy leather goods since 1985. In these boutiques you will find bags, shoes, belts, and accessories of the highest quality for all genders. The artisans still make everything by hand, with the exception of a sewing machine. How many can still say that?
Pandora della Malva
P.za di S. Giovanni della Malva, 3
pandoradellamalva.it
If you’re looking for some fashion jewelry, look no further than Pandora della Malva. This gem just behind Piazza Trilussa, in Piazza della Malva, has no shortage of jewels made from metals, woods, crystal, stones, and more. Some are unique pieces, some belong to seasonal collections from renowned designers. Necklaces, bracelets, earrings, trinkets of all kinds, all hand made. You may even find a decorative object for your apartment that you’ll fall in love with.
The Butcher
San Francesco Ripa, 16
The Butcher
Fine cut anyone? While the name might suggest a fine cut of meat, in this case, it’s about clothing. This hip Trastevere boutique delivers quality male and female clothing. Don’t miss the mighty fine selection of top-label shoes.
Elvis Lives
Via San Francesco a Ripa, 27
elvislives.it
Design comes in many forms, and fashion can sometimes be a simple Roman dialect word on a plain t-shirt. Expressions like “daje” or inside jokes about Rome, its traditions and food have made Elvis Lives one of the most popular stores in Trastevere. Founded by two graphic designers, the store’s iconic trademark is a sticker prayer card with Elvis Presley as Jesus. The store sells clothes, objects, gadgets and sunglasses and is perfect for an original memento from Rome different from a standard magnet of the Colosseum.
Twice Vintage
Via San Francesco Ripa, 7
twicevintage.com
Trastevere has many vintage and thrift stores, but none so well furnished as Twice Vintage on Via di San Francesco A Ripa. The iconic vintage store has been operating in the neighborhood for almost 15 years, selling second hand clothes and accessories from luxury brands. You may find relics from the 20s to classic 90s outfits here. Whether you need costumes for a period play, are going to a theme party, or simply love vintage clothes, this store is for you.
TIC
Piazza di San Cosimato, 39
ticedizioni.com
On the corner of Piazza San Cosimato, a very colorful seemingly toy store will catch your attention with its blackboard and creative magnets displayed outside on the sidewalk. It’s an independent book shop selling beautiful editions of classic and contemporary books and so much more. You will also find clever puns and Roman expressions printed on stationary, posters, postcards, and their signature “Er cane” and “Er gatto” collections, perfect for any pet owner. They also have board games, gadgets, and so many magnets. Best and most unique souvenirs in town!
Almost Corner Bookshop
Via del Moro, 45
AlmostCornerBookshop
Looking for English books in Rome? Look no further than Almost Corner Bookshop, a beloved English-language bookseller in Trastevere that’s been serving the community for over 30 years. This charming little shop offers a curated selection of books, ranging from classic and contemporary fiction to a variety of texts focused on Rome and its rich history. It’s the perfect spot to browse and discover new reads. They also host readings and cultural events.
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