Venice showcases both the best and the worst of shopping in Italy.
It’s no secret that the areas around St. Mark’s Square and other popular spots are filled with tacky souvenir shops aimed at tourists looking for quick mementos from the Floating City.
However, if you venture a little further from the crowds, you’ll discover that Venice boasts one of Italy’s most vibrant artisan communities. Here, historic and contemporary workshops are home to skilled craftsmen who meticulously create beautiful products by hand, ranging from exquisite glass art to luxurious silks.
These unique treasures do come with a price tag, but investing in them supports the city’s authentic artisans and their workshops. Below is our guide to distinctive Venetian artisan souvenirs you should look for while in Venice.
- Masks
For centuries, Venice has been famous for its masks, particularly the elaborate creations worn during Carnival, which are a more recent development in the art form. These lavish, hand-painted masks make for iconic souvenirs that can double as wall art at home. Ensure you choose masks from local workshops like Carta Alta in Giudecca or Casin dei Nobili in Dorsoduro, as cheaper, mass-produced versions are plentiful. For a hands-on experience, consider signing up for a mask-making course at Ca’ Macana.
- Stationery and Notebooks
Across Italy, specialty stationery shops (cartolerie) offer an array of gorgeous handmade paper products and leather-bound notebooks, and Venice is no exception. Among the city’s charming neighborhoods, you can find several iconic stationery shops where you can purchase beautifully letterpress-printed cards and stationery. Notable names include Gianni Basso Stampatore and Alberto Valese, the latter renowned for its stunning marbled paper and vibrant notebooks.
- Glass
The most celebrated artisan craft in Venice is undoubtedly the stunning hand-blown glass from the island of Murano. However, it’s essential to be cautious; unless you buy directly from a workshop, you may be tempted by inauthentic replicas. There are numerous workshops to explore on Murano, from the historic Salviani to the trendy Vaporetto. Consider investing in a unique glass artwork or chandelier (workshops offer shipping) or opt for smaller items like glass-topped wine stoppers, Christmas ornaments, jewelry, or delightful glass “candies” or miniature animals made from colored glass.
- Textiles
Venice has long been celebrated for its sumptuous textiles, including velvet, brocade, damask, and luxurious silks and wools. Several esteemed textile manufacturers still operate in the city today. Among the most recognized are Fortuny and Luigi Bevilaqua; the former specializes in high-end printed fabrics, while the latter is known for weaving true works of art. Both brands are highly sought after by renowned interior designers, and visits to their showrooms and workshops are available by appointment only. For top-notch fabrics and modern home décor, check out Chiarastella Cattana’s stylish store in the San Marco district.
- Slippers
Furlane, the fashionable gondolier slippers, have become a symbol of Italian style over the years. Many shops in Venice offer these chic slippers, but Piedaterre stands out as the most famous. You can choose from various luxurious materials such as velvet, silk, cashmere, canvas, or crochet, with vibrant colors and patterns available. These soft, rubber-soled slippers are perfect for both indoor and outdoor wear, adding effortless elegance to any outfit. Priced around €100, limited edition styles can exceed €300. Other excellent options for furlane include Paola Zuin and Vibi Venezia.
- Lace
While Murano is well-known for its handmade glass, the nearby island of Burano is famous for its exquisite lace. Once a prestigious center for lace-making, Burano now predominantly sells lace primarily produced in China. One reliable way to identify authentic Burano lace is through its (considerably high) price. To increase your chances of finding genuine pieces, explore Emilia Burano, a landmark shop featuring an impressive selection of fine linens for beds, baths, and tables. Even if you’re not planning to spend a fortune, make sure to check out the third floor for a mini-museum showcasing historic pieces.
- Wine
Before you leave, you’ll definitely want to sample some local wines, and the Veneto region offers numerous excellent wineries. Among the standout options are the premium Amarone and the more affordable yet delightful Valpolicella. While you can find Prosecco, Amarone, and Valpolicella outside Italy, the labels enjoyed locally often don’t have export versions. If you discover a wine you love, consider having a case shipped home. A great place to stock up on wine and other gourmet treats is Drogheria Mascari, the city’s top destination for food lovers.
Looking for Italian discounts near Venice? One of Italy’s top outlet malls is just a half-hour away from the city.
