italy tourist gifts

29 Gifts for the Friend Who’s Always Talking About Italy

By Alex Erdekian

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You know who we’re talking about. Maybe they tote an impractical, tiny leather backpack with a fleur de lis stamped on it, name drop the restaurant on Borgo Pinti they frequented while studying abroad in Florence , or have a lot to say about the correct espresso-to-milk ratio of a cortado. There's no questioning it: The traveler who checks these boxes is dreaming of visiting Italy . Luckily, this friend is damn easy to shop for, considering the way Italian craftsmanship touches nearly every single cultural realm—food, wine, literature, film, and fashion included.

This researched list has something for every kind of Italy lover, from Milanese Christmas cake to wooden risotto spoons. Not only on this list do we have beautiful Italian ingredients, but we also have an online interior design class by way of Florence , a boat ride around the Amalfi Coast , one-of-a-kind glass Christmas ornaments made in Milan , and an Italy-made pasta maker for rainy days.

Here are 29 beautiful Italian gifts for anyone who's ever fallen in love with the country—yourself included.

Find the best Italian gifts by category:

Gourmet gifts, gifts for experience seekers, gifts to help learn the language, gifts for an at-home spa day, gifts for your home, gifts for bookworms.

There are few dishes that epitomize the spirit of Italy like a steaming bowl of pasta. And a high-quality machine for making such pasta—the fresh kind—is a thoughtful gift for the friend who lives for weekend cooking projects—especially those who get cold winters and are in need of post-holidays indoor activities. The Imperia Pasta Maker Machine comes tested and recommended by our friends at Epicurious , and is made in Italy. It’s made of shiny, good-looking stainless steel and is a manual model, operating via a hand crank with a wood grip. Whether you prefer tagliatelle or tortellini, the joy of working with fresh pasta dough is a wonder.

More pasta makers we love:

Chopping and mincing vegetables is one of the most tedious cooking prep tasks—but, naturally, the Italians have an answer to that in the mezzaluna (which translates to half-moon in their language). Rocking a sharp, heavy, curved blade back and forth over carrots, celery, garlic, or onions does the job quickly and easily. It's particularly helpful when making a soffrito, an Italian cooking base for soups, braises, and sauces. This one is made in Italy of stainless steel and has grippable wooden handles.

Every fridge has a crumbly tub of pre-grated Parmesan cheese—but nonnas looking down from heaven are gasping, “Dio mio!” at the sight of those bland spaghetti strands. The fix? Whipping out a microplane and a hunk of parmigiano-reggiano, stat. The Microplane Classic Series zester does the job as well as any. With its tiny but fierce jagged teeth, it smoothly and effortlessly transforms any hard cheese into what looks like a fluffy pile of fresh-fallen snow and what tastes like salty, sharp, melt-in-your-mouth deliciousness.

This one is a fun bonus ravioli stamp. We love it as an add-on to any kind of pasta or food gift, or as a stocking stuffer. It's made in Italy out of aluminum and comes in a 2-inch or 3-inch size.

Enough about pasta; let's let risotto have its time in the sun. Simple, hearty, delicious, and variable (mushroom, shrimp, or lemon can star), the creamy rice-based risotto deserves a spot on any Italy-lover's regular recipe rotation. Make that happen for them with the essential risotto tool: a wooden spoon hollowed by a hole in the center. This instrument allows the grains to pass through the center, keeping them distinct and preventing them from being broken and smushed—it also aerates the dish. This highly rated olive wood model is easy to procure at $13 on Amazon.

If you’ve spent time in Italy , you know that drip coffee is hardly a thing there. You’d be hard-pressed to find it, even in coffee shops that cater to Americans. (If you manage to find iced coffee, chances are it’s actually an Americano on ice or something similar). Espresso is the Italian way. This applies to the coffee made and sipped in Italian homes, too, where the Moka pot is a key appliance. The little aluminum coffeemaker sits on a stovetop's flame and uses pressurized steam to churn out three cups of espresso—one for you, one for your friend, and one for the house.

As far as Italian gifts go, food is a no-brainer. Skip the tricolor cookies this Christmas—any and all party hosts will be much better off with a panettone brought to them instead. This Milanese Christmas cake can be enjoyed around the clock: A wedge of the tall, fluffy, zesty orange treat studded with raisins and candied fruit satisfies for breakfast with espresso, as an afternoon snack, or for dessert with a digestivo like Amaretto. Ferrara Bakery in New York City’s Little Italy makes an excellent one and ships it nationwide.

For the activities loving, hands-on traveler in your life who doesn't have the chance to take an international trip next year, why not bring travel to them with an Italy-centric online Airbnb Experience session? This 60-minute Florence-based interior design webinar tours a historic private apartment in the Santa Croce neighborhood. Host Luciano Nicola will show guests how to utilize color and furniture to create desired moods and aesthetics in their own spaces. This class has 237 reviews and an average rating of 4.99 out of 5 stars.

Get ready because this one is dreamy—and an in-person Airbnb Experience this time. For an extra special gift, like an anniversary or a honeymoon activity, this Amalfi Coast snorkeling boat ride sounds like a total delight. The watercraft departs Positano in the morning and makes stops at beaches, inside sea caves, and along colorful coastal villages before returning around 4 p.m.. Prosecco, snacks, water, soda, and towels will also be aboard. This tour has an average of 5 stars and 426 reviews. Another option, for those traveling further south down the boot, is this Sicily boat tour that Condé Nast Traveler senior editor Megan Spurrell enjoyed .

If there’s a person in your life who is deep in trip-planning mode, the best gift you can give them is an unforgettable travel experience. In this case, a tour through Pompeii and the vineyards Vesuvius National Park, featuring horseback riding, a five-glass wine tastings, and volcano views. A decadent meal is included, too: Bruschetta, grilled and pickled vegetables, a spread of local cured meat, salty cake, pasta allo Scarpariello, and a dessert with sweet liquor are all on the menu. This Airbnb Experience makes a special gift for wine lovers in particular.

More Airbnb experiences we love:

For the traveler who is serious about immersing themselves in the culture of Italy during their visit, or who already has a working understanding of Italian, help them get to the next level with a subscription to an Italian language learning program. Among the many options on the market, Rosetta Stone is one of the most popular, offering you the chance to learn through real-world scenarios and audio from native speakers.

When it comes to learning a new language, Babbel is favored for its strong and intuitive foundation in grammar, its wide-ranging resources including live online classes, and the flexibility to go at your own pace.

This Amazon bestseller is a great option for anyone trying to master the language, whether you're a beginner or just trying to brush up on your skills. Learn at your own pace with exercises and self-tests you can take from anywhere.

One lifestyle advantage that Italians have over Americans is their ability to see the big picture, to not sweat the small stuff, to just relax. We might as well make like them with spa products that promise to help us do just that. This thick body cream, rosa gardenia-scented, is best applied after bathing and sun exposure. It comes from Florence’s Officina Profumo-Farmaceutica di Santa Maria Novella, a pharmacy that was founded in 1612 and uses its very own secret formulas to this day, but is conveniently available via Amazon.

More Santa Maria Novella products we love:

A subtle touch of Italy for the friend who loves decor can be found in this kaleidoscopic Murano glass candle available from Nordstrom. It comes in three different colors and scents. An oceanic blue with a salty sea scent, a fiery red and gold with a ginger scent, and a sunny yellow and pink with a spring flowers scent.

This hand-blown, borosilicate glass Italian Christmas ornament is our pick for the person who is impossible to shop for, like your friend who has everything or your sister-in-law with intimidatingly great taste. The smooth glass orbs sold by Goop come by way of a Milan-based design studio that collaborates with traditional artisans. They come in a rich sapphire blue and a crisp apple green color, and flow into a beautiful swirl at the top.

For your Italy-adoring writer friend with vintage style, you can do no wrong with this hard-cover notebook covered by a map of Italy, available on Redbubble. Can't you picture this sliding right into their distressed dark brown leather satchel after a class or meeting? It also comes in a spiral version .

Aerial shots, pleasingly neat geometric patterns in the form of pinwheel-like umbrellas, and brilliant blue hues: You know Gray Malin when you see him. In Italy , the king of aesthetics showcases the photographs he took during summer visits to the coast . The pictured regions are scattered along the border of the boot—the Amalfi Coast, Capri, Cinque Terre, Lake Como, Puglia, Sicily, Tuscany, and Portofino grace the glossy pages of this cheerful coffee table book . Sunbathers on the hot white rocks of Grotta della Poesia, boats bobbing in the azure waters of Portofino harbor, and sun-bleached clouds above the seaside cliffs of Capri will give your imagination all it needs to make it through winter. In the introduction, Malin even likens Italy to an ice cream cone in July. Whether or not you find that analogy silly, the bright and beachy images that follow are certainly as enticing as it gets.

Ever wonder about the origin of pesto? How about focaccia? You can thank Liguria, a crescent-shaped region in northwest Italy on the Mediterranean coastline, home to Cinque Terre and other bright and colorful fishing villages. This cookbook, Liguria: The Cookbook: Recipes from the Italian Riviera, tells the story of the region’s gastronomy. In its pages, find dishes like corzetti (a medallion-shaped stamped pasta), stuffed anchovies, and fritto misto.

Even for the most avid Italian wine lovers, the category is a difficult one to master. After all, Italy cultivates nearly 2,000 native grape varieties and is home to a multiplicity of wine-making regions, from Piedmonte to Sicily and everything in between. For the oenophile with a passion for Italian wine, Wine Atlas of Italy is a little-known text that is required reading. The book contains 57 maps of Italian winemaking regions, many made by the author himself because few existed at the time of publication. He also includes helpful (though sometimes outdated) travel intel on restaurants, hotels, wine shops, and local sights.

Need some more inspo? Check out  Traveler' s  Amazon Storefront  for even more of our favorite travel gifts.

What to Buy in Italy: 35+ Best Italy Souvenirs

There are near-limitless fun things to dream about and budget for when gearing up for a trip to Italy, and planning what to buy in Italy is definitely one of them!

Souvenirs from Italy are a fantastic way to bring a piece of your trip home with you, and you can find a souvenir for every taste when shopping in Italy.

No matter how many times we visit Italy (which is a lot), we always seem to find some new treasure to bring home, whether it’s a ceramic jar from the Amalfi Coast , a magnet from Taormina , an antique map of Italy from an outdoor market in Lucca , or even simply a bag of taralli (one of our favorite snacks from Puglia )… just to name a few examples.

Not sure what to buy on your upcoming Italy trip?

Here are the best souvenirs from Italy to look for!

Table of Contents

Best Foodie Souvenirs from Italy

Decor + collectibles to buy in italy, best italy souvenirs to wear, miscellaneous things to buy in italy, inexpensive (but fun) souvenirs from italy, tips for shopping in italy, read more about visiting italy.

Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more detail.

Of all the best Italy souvenirs out there, we have to admit we’re partial to those with a foodie bent.

Not only is Italy’s gastronomy practically synonymous with its culture, but centering your shopping in Italy around food will allow your trip to continue in spirit once you return home, and eliminate the risk of waste or clutter accumulating over time.

If you’re traveling outside the EU, you’ll need to avoid a few of these treasures, like cheese–though if you ask us, souvenirs still count if you eat them before leaving the country!

The most classic of all Italian souvenirs is definitely wine !

Virtually all vineyards in Italy will ship bottles home for you, so if you’re a wine fan, consider picking up several of your favorites and enjoying them slowly over time.

Alternatively, for a budget souvenir option, hit the grocery store for a fun experience and a chance to experience just how delicious “cheap” wine in Italy can get.

Go ahead–try the 5 Euro bottle! It might surprise you!

Like wine, olive oil is a classic Italian souvenir that is easy to ship home.

And while it’s a popular souvenir year-round, if you’re lucky enough to visit during the olive harvest in the fall, you should absolutely, without a doubt, be sure to pick up some fresh olive oil!

For the best quality, avoid anything in a glass jar and instead look for olive oil stored in metal cans.

Spices are one of the cheapest and easiest to transport of these foodie souvenirs from Italy, and they can transform any dish.

Truffle Oil

Drizzle a few drops of truffle oil over your pasta at home, and you’ll almost swear you’re back in Italy when you taste it.

We love having it on hand for dressing up a standard night at home.

Truffle oil also makes a fantastic gift from Italy for foodies at home!

Italian Cookbook

Want to recreate some of your favorite Italian dishes once you return home?

Pick up a cookbook when shopping in Italy!

Cured Meats

From prosciutto to parma ham to plenty of sausages, cured meats travel well and make great souvenirs from Italy.

If you’re heading back to the US, you’ll need to eat this treat before heading home… but no Italy trip is complete without at least one meal that consists of cured meat, cheese, fruit, and wine picked up at local markets.

Dried or jarred–either option is a great way to bring a taste of Italy home!

Arguably Italy’s best-known liqueur, limoncello comes primarily from the Amalfi Coast and the surrounding area in Campania, including Sorrento .

If you’re not headed south, though, don’t worry: y ou’ll find limoncello served and sold all over the country.

If you pick some up as a souvenir, you can make an incredible limoncello spritz at home and bring a taste of the Amalfi Coast back from Italy with you.

This grape-based hard liquor is easy to find in Italy–you’ll undoubtedly be served a shot on the house at a restaurant at some point during your trip !

It d efinitely has quite the kick , and if you find yourself partial to it, grappa makes a wonderful Italian souvenir.

While dried pasta isn’t quite the same as the fresh stuff, it’s still a delicious option that makes for a wonderful souvenir (and easy to transport) souvenir from Italy!

You might also be surprised to learn that some famous Italian dishes are traditionally made with dried pasta–it’s not all about fresh pasta, even when exploring the boot.

Carbonara, for example, is made with dried pasta in Italy (personally, rigatoni is my favorite shape for this dish, though you’ll see many interpretations).

Traditional Balsamic Vinegar

Forget the cheap stuff–traditional balsamic vinegar from Modena takes 12-25 years to make, and the cost matches the commitment !

Expect to spend in the range of 100 Euro for a traditionally made bottle–but for the right customer (like Jeremy!) the cost is absolutely worth it.

Traditional balsamic vinegar is one of the absolute best souvenirs from Italy, as it is a very specific product that is difficult (and expensive) to source abroad, it is easy to transport, and it lasts a long time.

We’ve been very slowly working through our latest bottle for almost a year now, and it’s not even half gone.

From basic olive spreads to more, shall we say, adventurous spreads like cibreo, jarred spreads are easy to carry home.

And, s meared across a piece of crostini, they’re bound to help you feel like you’re back in Italy.

Hard Cookies & Sweets

Hard cookies and sweets (we’re partial to cantucci cookies from Tuscany, personally) are an inexpensive and fun way to bring a taste of la dolce vita home with you.

Chocolate 

Artisanal chocolates may be more readily associated with Belgium and France, but Italy also makes some incredible ones!

L ook for these especially in the region of Piedmont (arguably one of the most underrated regions in Italy, especially for foodies) and in the Val di Noto town of Modica in Sicily .

Hard cheeses, like aged parmigiano-reggiano, transport more easily than soft cheeses, but with a little ingenuity, you can get most cheeses home.

Want to bring true Italian coffee home with you?

While coffee bars are an enormous part of Italian coffee culture, moka pots–the pots that Italians make their coffee at home in–are also a huge part of the culture.

They’re a great way to bring Italian coffee home with you (assuming you’re not willing to splurge on a very pricey espresso machine, that is).

Home decor is one of our personal favorite things to buy in Italy, and even during our four years of long-term travel, we found ourselves acquiring a couple of pieces along the way.

Now that we have a home base again, seeing our carefully chosen pieces puts a smile on our faces every day!

… which is a very good thing, because we never seem to return to Italy without acquiring another treasure or two.

Ceramics + Pottery

Ceramics are popular across Italy, though you’ll see a lot of beautiful, hand-painted choices along the Amalfi Coast and in Tuscany in particular.

This is one of my personal weaknesses when shopping in Italy: I just can’t get enough of the ceramics!

One of our personal favorite souvenirs from Italy is our hand-painted jar from the Amalfi Coast.

From dishes to tiles, Italy is home to some truly beautiful porcelain.

Murano Glass

Examples of Murano glass, with its distinct colors and patterns, can be found in castles, palaces, and other opulent buildings around the globe–and it can definitely make an incredible souvenir from Italy!

While you can find Murano glass available for purchase across Italy, it’s especially lovely (and you’ll have the best selection) purchasing it on Murano or in nearby Venice.

Perugia Tablecloths

The popularity of beautiful tablecloths from Perugia dates all the way back to the 13th century!

If you’re visiting Umbria, it’s still absolutely worth picking one up today.

Door Knockers

Door knockers may be one of the more eclectic Italy souvenirs on this list, but if you’re in the market for one, you’ll certainly find an incredible selection in Italy!

While you can find them in shops, if you’re lucky enough to visit a flea market or antique fair when looking for things to bring back from Italy, you can have luck there as well.

Christmas Ornaments

The best way to go shopping in Italy for Christmas ornaments is at the annual Christmas markets, of course–but you can find beautiful ones year-round!

Easy to buy and easy to pack, Christmas ornaments also make excellent gifts from Italy for people you love back home.

Burano Lace

Italian lace–and specifically lace from the island of Burano near Venice–is cherished, and like Murano glass, has been popular with the extremely wealthy for centuries.

One of its best-known customers was Leonardo da Vinci himself, who bought a piece for the altar of the Duomo of Milan !

While most of the lace you’ll see for sale in Burano these days is made by machine or a hybrid of machine work and handmade touches (the traditional handmade pieces take months to create and cost thousands of dollars), it is still stunning!

If you’re looking for the  best souvenirs from Venice , there’s no doubt that Burano lace ranks among them.

Venetian Masks

What’s a trip to Venice without buying a Venetian mask?

With options raising in price from roughly 3 Euro to thousands, some version of this Italian souvenir is an option for everyone.

Original Art

Of all of the options listed in this guide to what to buy in Italy, a piece of original art definitely ranks as one of the most memorable and unique!

It doesn’t necessarily need to be a prohibitively expensive purchase, either: from small crafts and sketches to enormous oil paintings, statues, and beyond, there are many ways to bring a piece of Italian art home with you.

Prefer Italian souvenirs that you can wear?

These are some of the best options for shopping in Italy if you have your eye on clothes and accessories!

Not just any perfume, though–one purchased from a historic and beautiful location.

Consider purchasing a scent at the 13th-century Santa Maria Novella Pharmacy in Florence or the flagship Merchant of Venice store in Venice when shopping in Italy!

Leather Goods

Leather clothing and accessories, including jackets, bags, belts, shoes, and more, are some of the most popular artisanal goods sold in Italy, especially in Tuscany!

Goods can vary wildly in price and quality, but if you’re looking to get beyond the standard tourist offerings, the Scuola del Cuoio in Florence is a great place to look.

(Not that there’s anything wrong with sticking to a budget if that’s what’s in your price range, though–Jeremy’s fairly inexpensive Italian wallet has been with us for many years now).

Gold Jewelry

Italian gold is known for its high quality–most of the gold sold in the country is at least 18 karat–and its enormous number of artisans will make sure you have plenty of pieces to fall in love with.

You’ll certainly pay a bit more there, but if you’re in the market for a gold souvenir from Italy, the most memorable place to purchase it is undoubtedly from one of the (many) shops along the Ponte Vecchio in Florence.

Italy is known for its high fashion shopping opportunities, and that includes watches.

If you’re looking to splurge on a timepiece anytime soon, Italy is a great place to do it!

Handmade Shoes

One of the most popular souvenirs from the Amalfi Coast (or nearby spots like Capri ) is to have a pair of leather sandals handmade for you onsite .

T he tradition extends beyond the Amalfi Coast, and you’ll find these souvenir options in Tuscany, as well.

Luxury Clothes and Accessories from Italian Designers

Valentino, Prada, Armani, Versace, Fendi, Dolce & Gabbana… even casual observers of luxury brands can no doubt name off several of the big names from Italy!

If you’re looking to splurge on any designer pieces, Italy is absolutely the place to do it–not only is the selection incredible, but you’ll actually often pay less in Italy than you would for the same luxury goods abroad!

Like luxury, but also like deals?

You can also go souvenir shopping in Italy at a luxury outlet retailer–you can even hop a shuttle bus to one near Florence!

Book your shopping trip today!

Leather Wallet

Jeremy loves his wallet from Tuscany–and wallets also make great gifts to pick up while shopping in Italy!

Beautiful stationery is one of the best things to buy in Italy, and Florence and Venice are especially known for it.

This is a particularly wonderful Italian souvenir for honeymooners –what a memorable way to write thank-you notes when you get home!

For Catholics, especially those visiting the Vatican , a rosary can be a particularly meaningful reminder of their trip to Italy.

Additional Religious Items

In addition to rosaries, (Catholic) icons and crucifixes are also popular religious souvenirs from Italy.

You’ll find them for sale all over, but the gift shops of famous churches and cathedrals are a very reliable option!

Whether used or new, books are one of the best ways to remember a trip!

English-language books are fairly easy to find when shopping in Italy (in addition to English-language bookstores, the gift shops of museums are a great place to look), and we’ve collected several over the years.

Only have a few Euro or a small sliver of space in your luggage to spare?

These Italy souvenirs might be right for you!

Magnets are one of the most popular souvenirs to collect from around the world and often run only a few Euro apiece.

It’s worth waiting to find one that really sticks out to you–I spent almost a week looking for the right Sicily magnet, for example, but absolutely adore the one we ended up with!

What better way is there to reminisce about your trip to Italy than to be reminded of it every time you go to make a hot drink and pull your mug from Italy out of the cabinet?

Postcards are the ultimate combination of inexpensive, easy to pack, and easily personalized, making them one of the best budget souvenirs from Italy!

They tend to run .50 to 1 Euro each, but if you’re up to spending an extra couple Euro on top of that, consider filling a postcard out with your memories of the day right then and there.

Then, send it to yourself so you can relive your Italy memories as you return home (or a few weeks after, really–we’ve found that it takes quite a while to receive postcards from Italy in the USA!).

When shopping for food items, check for their certifications.

Italy takes its food incredibly seriously–so seriously, in fact, that there are different certifications a product can earn, stating that it was made in a particular place, with particular ingredients, or with a particular technique.

Look for the DOP and/or IGP labels when shopping in Italy for food products, and you’re bound to come away with a great example of Italian gastronomy.

Shop your region.

While you can find beautiful Italy souvenirs all over the country and can find most of the items included in this Italy shopping guide in many places, shopping for products specific to the region you’re visiting can add something special to the memory while helping ensure you have the best possible selection available.

For example, consider shopping for olive oil in Tuscany, glass in Murano , or masks in Venice!

Have a plan for which souvenirs from Italy you want before starting your trip.

You won’t need to stick to your plan exactly, of course–shopping spontaneously can be part of the fun of travel–but having a general idea of what you want to look for when shopping in Italy can help add structure to your browsing, and in some cases, help limit indecisiveness (for me, anyway).

For example, I already know that I want to pick up a couple of ceramic soap dispensers on our next trip to Italy!

Consider quality over quantity.

When deciding what to buy in Italy, think about quality over quantity.

I t’s incredibly easy to end up buying more Italy souvenirs than expected, and ending up with more knick-knacks than you really need.

In our experience, it’s much better to buy 1-2 truly memorable souvenirs than a whole slew of less memorable ones!

Note the trip and date of purchase on your Italy souvenirs.

You may find it easy to remember when and where you purchased your beautiful souvenirs from Italy now–but give it a decade or three, and you may be very glad you noted the place and year of purchase with the item!

We tend to write the info on the bottom of home decor pieces or Christmas ornaments and love the tradition of it.

Check on transportation regulations.

For the majority of these souvenirs from Italy, there is absolutely no issue with bringing them back yourself in your checked luggage.

F or food items, though, be sure to double-check any necessary regulations before packing up to leave Italy (and for anything not allowed, well–now you have a good excuse to eat them during your trip!).

For Americans like us, check the USDA regulations here .

Check on shipping costs if necessary.

If you’re carrying back something particularly fragile, heavy, or potentially regulated, it’s definitely worth at least inquiring about the cost of shipping.

M any small businesses and artisans in Italy are able and willing to ship their goods abroad , so be sure to ask!

It can definitely make your travels simpler if you don’t have to worry about carrying any particularly heavy or delicate purchases home with you.

… and leave extra space in your bag!

It’s definitely worth leaving an extra outfit or two at home to make sure that you have enough room in your luggage to accommodate a couple of the best souvenirs from Italy for yo u!

Ready to keep planning your trip to Italy?

We’d love to help!

You can  browse our 100+ Italy blog posts here , or check out these guides:

• 7 Days in Italy: 7 Ways to Spend a Week in Italy
• 21 Best Day Trips from Florence (+ Detailed Travel Advice)
• Summer in Italy: How to Plan Your Sun-Soaked Dream Trip!
• How to Take the Perfect Day Trip to Lake Como From Milan (By Train or Tour!)
• What to Buy in Rome: 15+ Best Souvenirs From the Eternal City

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

18 thoughts on “What to Buy in Italy: 35+ Best Italy Souvenirs”

Very helpful! Thanks for writing this and sharing this information!

Nice job! Thanks for the info!

Thank you! I love the idea of a door knocker!

Hi Thanks for the tips! Question: Is it crazy expensive to ship dishes (12 dinner plates) home to US from Positano?

Depends on a lot of factors, but it’s doable and popular! I recommend speaking with the local shop once you find the ones you want–they almost always have shipping programs available and can give more specific information.

Do you recommend aby specific shops for souvenirs, or have a post about that? Thanks!

Hi Yesenia!

I’ll occasionally mention a place or shop in posts about specific destinations, but I don’t have any full guides on where to shop. That’s more of a city-by-city thing, like restaurants.

I usually skim through a some of these guides, however, I read, enjoyed and learned so much from your post.

My husband and I are visiting Tuscany and the Amalie coast in September. Your itineraries and suggestions are practical and have added to the excitement of our upcoming trip. Thank you!

Thank you so much, Elizabeth! Love hearing that travelers find our articles helpful. 🙂

Hope you guys have a fantastic time in Italy!

Thanks for the info,it’s useful and interesting,specially about expenses and budget on souvenirs.

Loved your article! Wanted to point out, however, that the TSA is not the governing authority for items being brought into the US. For that you need to check US Agriculture and Customs. Cured meats such as prosciutto and parma ham are NOT allowed in, sadly! I will have to settle for some great olive and truffle oils.

Happy travels!

Thanks, Kara! I’ll look into getting that link updated. 🙂

The last picture shows a GERMAN (!) market! Germany and Italy is not exactly the same, just saying… 😀

You’re right that there’s German on the signs, but it’s not exactly a German market–I took that photo in Bolzano, in Italy’s South Tyrol region!

The region is definitely part of Italy (since 1918) but has very close ties with Austria and was part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire pre-WWI. Many of those traditions, including the German language, survive to this day.

It’s a very interesting place to visit! You can read more about the very cool city of Bolzano (German name Bozen–most towns up there have dual names in each language) in this blog post: https://www.ourescapeclause.com/things-to-do-in-bolzano-italy/

Thankyou for your very interesting articles. They’ve given me lots of ideas. My husband and I will be staying in Sacile (Venezia-Giulia) for some days in September. Do you know anything about this town?

We’ve never been there, but it looks beautiful! The only place we’ve had a chance to visit in Friuli Venezia Giulia so far is Trieste.

Although luxury items may be cheaper, you will still have to claim them when going through customs! You’ll be changed the taxes coming back into the US!

It’s a case-by-case basis (how much did you buy, what is it, etc.) but you generally still come out ahead, especially since you can have the VAT (European tax) refunded at the airport before you leave!

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75 Italian Gifts for Italy Lovers: Best Gift Ideas

Italy lovers are irresistibly drawn to authentic Italian gifts , as they encapsulate the essence of the country’s rich culture, tantalizing cuisine, and breathtaking landscapes. The sky is the limit when seeking the perfect present for someone who adores Italy.

Our extensive list of 75 great Italian gift ideas , ranging from handcrafted artisanal products to delectable food and wine selections, is designed to provide the ultimate definitive guide for choosing a great gift for your best friend or a family member.

Dive into our comprehensive selection of authentic Italian gifts, and let the charm of Italy inspire your next trip as you explore the best Italian gifts from the land of La Dolce Vita.

Top 3 Picks: Highest Rated Italian Gifts

The Taste of Italy Gift Basket

Packed with an array of authentic gourmet treats , ranging from biscuits to pasta and chocolate, this top pick offers a delightful culinary journey through Italy .

Italian Gelato Maker

This gelato maker is a top pick for its ability to transport recipients to Italy, encouraging culinary creativity with traditional dessert flavors.

Slim Aarons La Dolce Vita

With stunning visuals and insightful narrative, this book is not just a decorative piece but a passport to the heart of Italy , inspiring travel and conversation.

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Italian Gift Baskets

Delight lovers of Italian cuisine or expats longing for a taste of home with a scrumptious gift basket brimming with appetizing Italian treats such as cheeses, crostinis, marinara sauce, salami, biscotti, and more. This considerate gift captures the true essence of Italy’s flavors and delivers them straight to their home.

Introducing three of the finest options for Italian gift baskets, perfect for treating your loved ones to Italy’s best.

1. Papa Vince Italian Food Gift Basket Gourmet

Crafted by a true Italian family in Sicily using organic, locally grown ingredients, this delightful gift basket contains pasta, extra virgin olive oil, tomato sauce, Italian salad dressing, and more.

Ideal for Italian lovers and health-conscious friends or family members, it evokes cherished memories of Italy while being perfect for any occasion.

2. BRAVA GIULIA Premium Artisanal Gift Box

This stylish Italian gift basket is hand-packed with gourmet goodies that reflect the soul of Mediterranean culinary tradition.

It includes high-quality, premium products made by small artisanal producers in Italy, such as Zahara EVOO, Via Farini Yellow Label Balsamic Vinegar, Felicetti Organic bronze cut pasta, and Agromonte Cherry Tomato pasta sauce.

The beautiful presentation makes it a perfect gift for any occasion , and its selection of authentic Italian items is sure to delight food lovers and beyond.

3. The Taste of Italy Gift Basket

This exquisite Italian gift basket offers a variety of traditional Italian gourmet foods , including cookies, organic pasta, Italian seasoning mix, extra virgin olive oil, Le Preziose sugared fruit jellies, and Bella Campagna whole mixed olives.

Beautifully presented in a metal basket, it’s a fantastic gift option for any occasion, allowing recipients to create an authentic Italian meal .

Suggested Reading : Dive into our guide about Christmas in Italy , where you can explore the top 20 destinations and immerse yourself in the country’s cherished traditions.

Italian Coffee Maker and Accessories

Indulge the coffee aficionado in your life with the gift of an Italian coffee maker ! These exquisite, high-quality brewing devices delight even the most discerning coffee connoisseur. Immerse your loved one in the rich and robust world of Italian espresso as they experience making the perfect cup of coffee at home.

Choose from iconic Italian coffee makers such as the classic Bialetti Moka Expresso Maker , the stylish and efficient Nespresso machine, or even the elegant La Pavoni Espresso Machine for a truly luxurious coffee experience. Each option offers a unique and authentic way to savor the flavors of Italy’s finest coffee blends.

Gifting an Italian coffee maker is not just about offering a functional kitchen gadget; it’s about sharing the passion for the coffee culture deeply rooted in the Italian lifestyle. Your gift recipient will undoubtedly treasure this thoughtfully chosen present as they embark on a flavorful journey through Italy’s rich coffee tradition .

Recommended Reading : Read our comprehensive review of the 20 best Italian espresso maker machines .

1. Top Pick: The Original Bialetti Moka Expresso Maker

Gift your favorite coffee connoisseur an original Bialetti espresso maker . This easy-to-use, genuine Bialetti stovetop coffee maker delivers authentic Italian coffee . Paired with Italian coffee, it’s a match made in heaven for an Italian coffee gift set.

2. Authentic Italian Coffee

Complete their coffee experience with genuine Italian coffee to accompany their Bialetti espresso maker. Add coffee to your Italian gift basket for an even more delightful present. Choose from renowned 100% Italian coffee brands , such as Lavazza, Illy , or Segafredo Zanetti .

Recommended Reading : Discover the rich flavors and authentic aromas of Italy’s finest coffee brands in our article on the 14 best Italian coffee brands .

3. Traditional Italian Espresso Cups

Complete the authentic Italian espresso experience with traditional Italian espresso cups . These cups elevate every sip of espresso, making them one of the best Italy-themed gifts for any espresso lover. Impress your gift recipient with a truly artistic Italian coffee experience they’ll cherish.

Handmade and hand-painted in the renowned town of Deruta , Italy, this exquisite ceramic espresso cup and saucer set elevate the coffee experience.

Designed to keep espresso hot and preserve its taste and aroma , these charming cups perfectly combine art and pleasure, making every sip a moment of pure delight.

Italian Cuisine Creation Kits

Experience the art of Italian cooking with our handpicked selection of food-making gifts . From handy kits to efficient appliances, we’re bringing the flavors and traditions of Italy right into your kitchen.

Craving more? Explore Italian Cooking Gift Ideas: 28 Best Gifts for Food Lovers for an extended culinary journey!

1. Italian Gelato Maker

Delight the Italy enthusiasts in your life with a true Italian gelato maker , a gift that will transport them to the charming streets of Italy, one scoop at a time . With various options available, such as countertop machines or hand-cranked models, there’s a gelato maker for every level of the home chef.

Recipients can create authentic gelato flavors , experimenting with classic Italian favorites like stracciatella, pistachio, and tiramisu. This scrumptious gift idea will evoke Italy’s spirit and provide endless culinary fun for those who love to explore the delightful world of Italian desserts .

2. Marcato Atlas 150 Pasta Maker

Pasta is undeniably the heart and soul of Italian cuisine . It epitomizes the Italian culinary tradition, representing centuries of history, love for food, and mastery of the craft. Crafting homemade pasta is a joyful and rewarding experience that pays homage to Italy’s remarkable culinary expertise.

A pasta machine makes it the perfect gift for someone who loves cooking Italian food . Using a pasta maker, they can effortlessly make fresh spaghetti, fettuccine, and linguine.

No need to visit Italy for a fantastic meal—now they can savor delicious fresh pasta in their own home, accompanied by a glass of wine.

The Marcato Atlas 150 Pasta Maker is the ultimate Italian pasta-making tool. This Italian-made, nickel- and chrome-plated steel device use a hand crank to flatten and cut pasta, making tagliatelle , pappardelle , ravioli , or tortellini a breeze.

3. Cuzi Gourmet 4-Piece Large Pizza Stone Set

Who doesn’t love a delicious, homemade pizza? This pizza kit offers a delightful opportunity to create a memorable pizza-making experience and help bring the a uthentic taste of Italy to the kitchen, making it a fantastic gift choice for Italy lovers.

Delight your loved ones with this incredible pizza-making kit that brings the classic taste of Italian pizza to your home while creating lasting memories.

The Cuzi Gourmet 4-Piece Large Pizza Stone Set is an eco-friendly choice that offers a fun, family-friendly experience for sharing authentic Italian flavors. This large set includes a thermal shock-resistant pizza stone, handle rack, bamboo pizza peel, and pizza cutter for a complete pizza-making experience.

4. MasterChef Junior Pizza Cooking Set

For the little chefs in your life, the MasterChef Junior Pizza Cooking Set provides a unique opportunity for kids to learn cooking and immerse themselves in Italian culture.

This 5-piece kit includes a sauce ladle, wood pizza board, personal pizza pan, and a plastic pizza cutter, making it an ideal gift for fostering family time and sparking a lifelong love for Italian cuisine.

5. DIY Focaccia Making Kit

A focaccia-making kit is a great idea for those who enjoy DIY projects or cooking. This kit enables them to create heavenly focaccia right in their kitchen .

The kit comes complete with bread flour, yeast, Italian seasoning, sea salt, food tweezers, and a foolproof recipe – everything they need for perfect Italian focaccia at home .

Exquisite Italian Food Gifts

Delight in our collection of gourmet Italian food gifts . These authentic flavors, from savory Parmesan to rich Olive Oil, make perfect Italian presents for Italy’s vibrant cuisine lovers.

1. Parmigiano Reggiano DOP 24 Months

Treat the Italy aficionados in your life to the rich, savory goodness of genuine 100% Parmesan cheese . As one of Italy’s most celebrated and well-known culinary delights, Parmesan cheese, or Parmigiano-Reggiano , is a versatile and delicious gift that will impress and delight your Italy-loving friends and family.

The Parmigiano Reggiano DOP 24 months 2.2 lb offers an exclusive selection of this renowned Italian cheese, shipped directly from Italy. With a careful 24-month aging process, this Parmigiano Reggiano develops a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors, accentuated by its pronounced crumbly texture and characteristic grain.

This cheese is made without additives and delivers an authentic and delectable taste experience for true Italian cuisine enthusiasts.

Gifting a high-quality, authentic Parmesan cheese will transport the recipient to the rustic Italian countryside, where they can imagine themselves savoring a freshly-grated Parmesan atop a plate of homemade pasta or enjoying a sliver of cheese paired with fine Italian wine.

To elevate your Parmesan cheese gift, consider including a cheese knife, a stylish wooden cheese board, or even pairing it with a selection of other Italian cheeses, such as Pecorino Romano or Gorgonzola.

2. Antico Frantoio Muraglia Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Delight the Italy lovers in your life with the gift of authentic Italian extra virgin olive oil , a culinary treasure that captures the essence of the Mediterranean lifestyle. Known for its exceptional taste, health benefits, and versatility in the kitchen, Italian extra virgin olive oil is a thoughtful and delicious present that will transport recipients to the sun-drenched landscapes of Italy.

Introduce them to the renowned Antico Frantoio Muraglia , a family-owned business producing exceptional olive oil for five generations. Their oils from Puglia boast fruity notes, a pleasant bitterness, and a gentle peppery finish, perfect for drizzling over salads, pasta, or bruschetta.

Their beautifully designed hand-painted ceramic bottles also make a stunning keepsake that will remind recipients of Italy’s rich artistic heritage.

Gifting Italian extra virgin olive oil is a flavorful and heartwarming way to share a taste of Italy with a good friend and family who cherish this magnificent country.

By offering them the highest quality olive oils, you’ll provide a sensory experience that transports them to Italy’s picturesque olive groves and vibrant flavors with every drizzle.

Recommended Reading : Elevate your home cooking with the best Italian olive oil brands on the market.

3. Italian Olive Oil of the Month (Club Membership)

Nothing says Italy more than traditional extra virgin olive oil (EVOO). High-quality olive oil elevates any dish with flavors varying from delicate and smooth to peppery and bold.

Consider gifting a subscription to an Italian olive oil club , such as the Olive Oil of the Month Club, for a truly unique and personalized touch.

This exclusive membership will provide your Italy-loving friend with quarterly shipments of some of the finest, hand-selected extra virgin olive oils from Italy’s top producers.

This gift keeps giving, allowing recipients to explore and savor a variety of exceptional Italian olive oils throughout the year.

4. Balsamic Vinegar from Modena Gift Set

Present Italy enthusiasts with the refined taste of authentic balsamic vinegar from Modena , a city known for its centuries-old tradition of producing this exquisite condiment.

Elevate their culinary experience by gifting a beautifully packaged selection of balsamic vinegar , ranging from the classic, rich, and tangy variety to the aged and velvety reserve, perfect for drizzling on salads , cheeses, or even desserts. This thoughtful gift will surely impress anyone who loves Italy and is eager to delve into the essence of Italian cuisine.

For an opulent taste of Emilia Romagna, consider the Italian Vinegar Gift Set by Giuseppe Giusti . Presented in a reusable wooden wine box, this set features two types of vinegar: aged balsamic and white.

The set showcases the essence of Modena , a region renowned for its balsamic vinegar made from cooked grape must. The versatile balsamic vinegar is perfect for meats, salads, sauces, and even drizzled over bread, cheese, and gelato. This Italian vinegar gift set is a true treasure, paired with citrusy white wine vinegar from Trebbiano grapes.

5. Italian Biscotti

This exquisite assortment of Italian biscotti is expertly crafted by Vicenzi, following age-old Italian traditions . Specially packaged to preserve freshness, these soft cookies and crispy, flaky pastries can be savored independently or paired with a coffee, tea, or glass of wine for a truly delightful experience.

6. La Florentine Torrone

La Florentine Torrone is a delightful Italian treat that exudes Old World charm. This beautiful box adorned with a Renaissance portrait contains bite-sized pieces of white nougat candy filled with roasted pistachios and almonds.

Gluten-free and made from almonds, cane sugar, honey, and egg whites, these nougats come in three enticing flavors : lemon, orange, and vanilla. Wrapped in edible paper wafers, La Florentine Torrone is an Italian gift sure to delight .

7. Italian Panettone

Panettone is a traditional Italian sweet bread enjoyed during special occasions and holidays like Christmas or Easter. With a variety of flavors, like hazelnut, coffee, and lemon, panettone is a festive delight.

The classic preparation with candied citron will fill any home with the scent of the holidays . Freshly baked or expertly sealed, panettone is a delicious Italian gift .

Planning for the festive season? Read Christmas in Italy: Top 20 Destinations & Best Traditions and experience holiday magic Italian-style!

8. Gourmet Italian Spices and Seasonings

Italian cuisine is famous for its rich flavors; spices and seasonings make dishes irresistible . Roasted garlic flakes, sweet basil, and rosemary garlic oil dip add unique tastes and vibrant colors to any dish, making it more visually appealing.

Spices and seasonings are often included in Italian gift baskets , making them a delightful addition for any Italy lover.

Recommended Reading : 20 Best Italian Herbs & Spices : Seasoning Made Easy

Italian Chocolate Gift Ideas

While chocolate is technically a food, Italian chocolate is an indulgence so special it merits a category all its own .

Indulge the taste buds of Italy lovers with the luxurious and delectable gift of Italian chocolate . Renowned for its quality and irresistible flavors, Italian chocolate is the perfect way to bring a touch of Italy’s finest confections to friends and family who adore this beautiful country.

Treat them to a delightful journey through Italy’s chocolate landscape with these two exquisite options below.

1. Venchi Chocolates

Venture into the world of Gianduja with Venchi chocolates , a mouth-watering blend of smooth chocolate and hazelnut paste that originated in the Piedmont region.

Venchi’s Gianduja bars and spreads offer a delectable taste of this Italian classic, making them a fantastic gift for anyone craving a true taste of Italy.

Presenting Italian chocolate as a gift is an engaging and delicious way to share the country’s rich confectionery heritage with those who cherish Italy.

The heavenly flavors and artisanal quality of these chocolates will surely transport your Italy-loving friends and family to the cobblestone streets of Rome, the canals of Venice, or the rolling hills of Tuscany, all in just one bite.

Further Reading : Unsure which brand of Italian chocolate to choose? We’ve got you covered with our handpicked selection of the 12 finest Italian chocolate brands.

2. Ferrero Rocher

The legendary Ferrero Rocher, a classic Italian favorite , features a whole hazelnut enveloped in a creamy filling and encased in a delicate wafer shell, all wrapped in a luxurious gold foil. This iconic chocolate never fails to impress, making it a fantastic gift for any occasion .

Italian Wines Gift Ideas

Delight the Italy enthusiasts in your life with the exquisite taste of Italian wines . Italy is renowned for its diverse wine regions, each producing unique vintages.

Gifting a carefully selected bottle of Italian wine , or even a curated wine set, is an indulgent and thoughtful gesture that will transport Italy lovers to the sun-drenched vineyards of their dreams.

Gift a taste of Italy with options like refreshing Prosecco , bold Barolo , or versatile Chianti Classico for the ultimate Italian wine experience.

Suggested Reading : Discover our detailed guide on the 21 Safest Cities in Italy for Travelers & Expats .

Kitchen Items Italian Gift Ideas

Dive into this collection of essential tools and accessories to inspire the inner Italian chef in your loved ones. These gift ideas embrace Italy’s culinary traditions, allowing recipients to recreate authentic Italian dishes at home.

From cooking books to elegant serving ware, this category offers the perfect gifts for those passionate about Italian cuisine.

Recommended Reading: Discover the 28 best gifts for Italian food lovers in our comprehensive review.

1. The Silver Spoon Italian Cookbook

Surprise the Italy enthusiasts in your life with an Italian cookbook , allowing them to savor the flavors and aromas of Italy’s finest recipes right in their own kitchen.

With a carefully selected cookbook featuring Italian recipes, you’ll be gifting them the opportunity to explore Italy’s rich culinary heritage and recreate delicious dishes from the comfort of their home.

The Silver Spoon is a timeless classic that has been a staple in Italian kitchens for over six decades.

Often referred to as the Italian cooking bible , this comprehensive cookbook features over 2,000 recipes from every region of Italy, providing a wealth of culinary inspiration and knowledge for novice and experienced cooks.

2. Essentials of Classic Italian Cooking

Another fantastic choice is Marcella Hazan’s “ Essentials of Classic Italian Cooking .” A beloved culinary authority, Hazan shares her expertise and passion for Italian cuisine in this comprehensive guide.

With easy-to-follow instructions and an emphasis on authentic flavors, this cookbook will quickly become a favorite resource for anyone eager to master Italian cooking .

Gifting an Italian cookbook is a thoughtful and flavorful way to share Italy’s rich culinary traditions with those who cherish this enchanting country.

Through these carefully curated recipes and stories, you’ll be offering a taste of Italy that will inspire and delight Italy lovers as they embark on their culinary adventures.

3. Italian Cooking Class

For those who adore Italian cuisine and enjoy cooking, give the gift of an Italian cooking class . By bringing Italy to their home, this gift offers a truly immersive experience with a local expert.

Search for in-person classes nearby or explore online options, such as Massimo Bottura’s Modern Italian Cooking Masterclass. This is the perfect gift for anyone wanting to learn the secrets of Italian cooking from the comfort of their kitchen.

4. Gourmet Map of Italy

Picture a detailed map highlighting Italy’s most important cities, featuring food illustrations and descriptions of each region’s specialties. This unique gift idea is perfect for foodies, travelers, or anyone fascinated by Italy’s culinary treasures.

5. Italian Themed Chef’s Hat

Celebrate your love for Italy with this tricolor fabric chef’s hat , designed to fit most sizes.

Ideal for cooking enthusiasts and Italy aficionados , this 100% cotton-woven hat ensures a comfortable experience while preparing delicious Italian meals. Wear it with pride during special occasions or while whipping up your favorite Italian dishes.

7. Italian-Themed Kitchen Aprons

Choose from Italian-inspired kitchen aprons featuring scenes of Rome and Calabria, olive oils, bread, wine, or pasta. The sky’s the limit regarding Italian-themed aprons , including funny Italian aprons .

This one says “ I don’t need recipes, I’m Italian .” These lightweight, machine-washable aprons are perfect for Italian-themed gift baskets and will bring a touch of humor and Italian charm to any kitchen.

Italian Games and Brain Teasers

Explore the captivating realm of Italian games and brain teasers , where entertainment and Italian culture intertwine. This category showcases an engaging selection of games, puzzles, and challenges celebrating Italy’s rich history and vibrant customs.

These delightful gift ideas promise hours of fun for Italy enthusiasts and offer an immersive experience of the fascinating world of Italian pastimes.

1. LEGO Icons Vespa 125 Scooter

Whether you’re looking for gifts for kids or Lego-addict adults, this is a perfect choice.

Create and showcase your miniature Italian icon with this LEGO Vespa 125 , inspired by the timeless 1960s Vespa scooter . In honor of Vespa’s 75th anniversary, LEGO designers collaborated with Piaggio to craft a model that appeals to Italian culture enthusiasts .

Emphasizing details like the Vespa logo, a vintage 1960s Italian license plate, a spare wheel, and a working kickstand, this c harming LEGO scooter mode l makes a fantastic gift and can be proudly displayed at home or in the office.

2. LEGO Architecture Trevi Fountain

Discover the joy of celebrating Italian architectural history with the LEGO Architecture Trevi Fountain , a reimagined version of the iconic landmark .

Designed for those passionate about design, architecture, and Italy’s rich heritage, this LEGO set allows you to bring a piece of Rome into your home or workspace, capturing the essence of the famed Trevi fountain through the versatile medium of LEGO bricks.

3. LEGO Architecture Venice

Experience the charm of Italy’s iconic city with the LEGO Architecture Venice set , showcasing famous landmarks such as the Rialto Bridge, St. Mark’s Basilica, and the Bridge of Sighs.

The blue tiles on the baseplate represent Venice’s enchanting canals and rivers, making this set a fantastic gift for admirers of Italy’s architecture, history, and artistic heritage.

4. Tombola Board Game

Discover the excitement of Tombola, a traditional Italian bingo-style game that originated in southern Italy. This centuries-old lottery game offers even more chances to win and is perfect for game-night enthusiasts. With its popularity among large groups, friends, and family gatherings, Tombola is a fantastic gift that brings people together for a fun-filled experience.

5. Scopa: A Traditional Italian Card Game

Scopa is a classic Italian card game that makes an ideal gift for game lovers and anyone interested in Italian culture.

6. Italian-Themed Adult Coloring Book

Italian-themed adult coloring books are perfect for relaxation and sparking creativity. Choose from scenic Italy or a hilarious Italian swear word coloring book for a unique and entertaining gift.

7. Italian-Themed Jigsaw Puzzle

Gift a 1000-piece Italian-themed jigsaw puzzle featuring Italy’s breathtaking landmarks to those who dream of their next Italian adventure.

This mini-vacation in a puzzle offers a stunning Italian landscape to adorn their wall once completed, infusing their days with a touch of Italian flair.

Unique and Quirky Italian Gifts

Discover a treasure trove of unusual, whimsical, and charming items that capture the spirit of Italy. These unique Italian gifts are perfect for those seeking something extraordinary and memorable, reflecting Italy’s distinctive culture, humor, and creativity. Delight your loved ones with these imaginative offerings celebrating Italy’s enchanting allure.

1. Gift a Piece of Italian Land

Surprise those who dream of living in Italy with a certified plot of Italian soil and an official title.

This extraordinary gift allows them to revel in la dolce vita and offers the perfect reason for a romantic picnic in the Italian countryside.

2. Pizza Socks

Looking for the ultimate Italian gift for pizza lovers ? Delight them with a pizza box filled with pizza-inspired socks ! Not only are they fun and quirky, but they’re also practical for travelers preparing for a trip to Italy.

3. Italian Good Luck Charm

Introduce a touch of Italian tradition and superstition to your loved ones with iconic good-luck Italian charms . These symbolic talismans are believed to ward off evil and bring good fortune to the wearer.

Available in various materials like gold, silver, or Murano glass and often featured on necklaces, bracelets, and keychains, these charms capture the essence of Italian culture while providing a stylish and protective accessory.

Gift an Italian horn charm to friends and family who appreciate Italy’s rich heritage and allure.

Italian Travel and Language Gifts

Embark on a journey through Italy’s fascinating culture, language, and destinations with our Italian Travel and Language Gifts category. These thoughtfully curated gifts will inspire , educate , and transport Italy lovers to their favorite corners of the country.

From travel guides and language courses to Italian phrasebooks and maps, these gifts are perfect for those eager to explore the diverse wonders of Italy and learn the beautiful Italian language.

Ignite the passion for La Dolce Vita in the hearts of your loved ones with these captivating Italian travel and language gifts.

Ready for an Italian adventure? Dive into our 35 Best Travel Guide Books for Italy for insider tips and destination inspiration!

1. Rick Steves Italy

Rick Steves Italy travel guide is a must-have guide for anyone exploring the country. Known for his practical advice and engaging storytelling , Rick Steves offers an in-depth look at Italy’s iconic sights and lesser-known treasures.

With detailed maps, itineraries, and recommendations, this guidebook will help Italy lovers make the most of their time in this enchanting land.

2. DK Eyewitness Italy

For those with a special interest in art and architecture, “ DK Eyewitness Italy ” is an excellent choice. This visually stunning guidebook features detailed illustrations, cutaway views, and floor plans, helping travelers fully appreciate Italy’s rich artistic heritage . Accompanied by insightful commentary, this guide is perfect for culture enthusiasts.

3. Italian Language Course

Ignite the passion for Italian culture in the hearts of Italy lovers by gifting them an Italian language course. Learning the beautiful Italian language opens doors to deeper connections with the locals and allows them to appreciate Italy’s rich history, art, and gastronomy on a whole new level.

Here are a few enticing options for those who would love to learn the basics of Italian . Consider online classes on Udemy, a book with short stories in Italian for those with basic knowledge, or a learning Italian podcast as excellent gift options.

Recommended Reading : Explore our carefully curated selection of the top 23 Italian grammar books to enhance your language skills and master Italian with ease.

4. Italian Phrasebook & Flashcards

Knowing a few basic Italian phrases is always good when traveling to Italy.

But suppose you want to communicate with Italians without the frustration of a language barrier (because, in many areas, English is still not well-spoken). You should probably know more than 2-3 sentences in that case.

So what could be a better travel gift for an Italy lover than an Italian phrasebook ? Both practical and fun, it can be useful for traveling and learning and improving one’s Italian.

5. Italian Coffee Table Books

Coffee table books make for an excellent and visually stunning gift . Laden with breathtaking photographs and fascinating insights, these books become a constant source of inspiration and conversation starters.

One of the best books capturing Italy’s essence is “ Slim Aarons – La Dolce Vita .” This luxurious collection showcases Slim Aarons’ lifelong passion for Italy , featuring stunning aerial shots of the Sicilian countryside and intimate celebrity portraits in splendid villas.

Experience “the good life” through the pages of this remarkable book about Italy .

Not only do Italian coffee table books serve as beautiful decorative pieces for your friends and family’s homes, but by diving into the pages of these fascinating books, they can transport themselves to the winding streets of Rome, the rolling hills of Tuscany, or the magical canals of Venice.

Each book serves as a passport to the soul of Italy, inviting readers to embark on a journey through time and space .

6. Italian-Themed Luggage Tags

Italian-themed luggage tags make practical, affordable gifts for travelers who will be reminded of you whenever they spot the tags on their luggage.

7. Italian-Themed Passport Cover

Surprise frequent travelers with an Italy-themed passport cover. With a wide variety of designs, you’re sure to find the perfect gift for Italy enthusiasts.

8. Italian-Themed Phone Cases

Finding a cover that fits every phone model can be tricky, but this Italy-inspired gift is an excellent and affordable choice for those who adore the country. Delight your Italy-loving friends with this budget-friendly yet charming option.

9. Funny Italian Signs

Elevate your special events with funny Italian gift signs , creating memorable moments for everyone involved. These timeless signs can be reused and serve as perfect decorations for weddings, birthdays, or anniversaries.

Italian Home & Lifestyle Gifts

Add a touch of Italian flair to the lives of your loved ones with this Italian home and lifestyle gifts category. These carefully chosen items effortlessly bring Italy’s warmth, charm, and elegance into everyday living spaces.

From Italian-themed mugs to genuine Italian leather notebooks and calendars, these gifts will delight those who appreciate the Italian way of life. Elevate the atmosphere and style of any home with these exquisite Italian home and lifestyle gifts, perfect for Italy enthusiasts.

1. Genuine Italian Leather Notebook for Men & Women

Unleash your creativity with this versatile Italian leather journal , ideal for capturing brilliant ideas, creative thoughts, and poetry or transforming it into a travel diary, sketchbook, or recipe book.

Made from premium, soft genuine Italian leather, this journal showcases exceptional craftsmanship and quality. A perfect gift for those who appreciate fine craftsmanship and have a fondness for Italy.

2. Italian-Themed Mugs

A funny Italian coffee mug is a classic, budget-friendly gift that lets your recipient enjoy their favorite beverage while flaunting their love for Italy.

3. Italian Flag Heart Love Wine Bottle Stopper

This stylish and durable stopper is perfect for Italian lovers who enjoy wine , as it fits most standard wine, liquor, and oil bottles. It’s a great Italian-themed gift that adds a touch of elegance to any bottle.

4. Italian-Themed Calendar

A practical item like an Italian-themed calendar doesn’t have to be boring and can actually be one of the best gifts for someone who loves Italy.

5. Italian-Themed T-Shirt

A vibrant Italian-themed cotton T-shirt is a comfortable and stylish addition to any Italy-inspired wardrobe.

6. Italian-Themed Tote Bag

Thousands of Italy-themed tote bags on Amazon or Zazzle offer practical gifts for those on the go. Choose a relatable phrase like, “I don’t need therapy. I just need to go to Italy.”

Italian Art and Craftsmanship Gifts

Discover the beauty of Italian Art and Craftsmanship Gifts, where each item showcases Italy’s finest artisans’ skill, tradition, and creativity . This category features exceptional handcrafted treasures such as Murano glass creations , Deruta ceramics , and other exquisite masterpieces.

For those who appreciate the finer things in life and deeply love Italian culture, these gifts embody the essence of Italy’s artistic heritage. Indulge in the elegance and timelessness of Italian art and craftsmanship with these extraordinary gift ideas.

1. Murano Glass Creations

Present a piece of Murano glass as a symbol of Venetian sophistication , encapsulating the time-honored art of glassmaking that has flourished in Murano for centuries. These stunning creations not only exude elegance but also pay homage to this enchanting Venetian island’s rich history and unparalleled craftsmanship.

Each Murano glass masterpiece is meticulously handcrafted by skilled artisans who infuse their passion and expertise into every intricate detail. The result is an exquisite work of art that captures the essence of Venetian culture and adds a touch of timeless beauty to any space.

Gifting a Murano glass creation is not only an expression of refined taste but also a heartfelt tribute to the enduring legacy of this fascinating art form.

With such a thoughtful and sophisticated gift , you’ll leave a lasting impression on the recipient, who will undoubtedly treasure this exquisite piece of Venetian history.

Further Reading : Just as Deruta Ceramics are renowned their intricate designs and expert craftsmanship, Italian marble is equally famous for its beauty and quality.

2. Deruta Ceramics

Nestled in the heart of Umbria, the quaint town of Deruta has gained international acclaim for its exquisite maiolica , a form of hand-painted Italian ceramics. These breathtaking, artisanal creations are nothing short of masterpieces , adding a touch of elegance and refinement to any home.

As individual works of art, each piece of authentic Deruta ceramics showcases the skill and passion of the local craftsmen, who have meticulously honed their craft over generations.

When you gift a Deruta ceramic piece , you present a luxurious and sophisticated item and offer a timeless treasure that will be cherished for years. These unique and exquisite creations perfectly embody Italian elegance, making them an ideal gift for those who appreciate the finer things in life.

3. Italian Christmas Ornaments

Dive into the festive season with authentic Italian Christmas decorations . These Italian decorative items will enrich your festive decor, from timeless ceramic ornaments adorned in traditional red-and-white to various other holiday embellishments. Go shopping for these cherished keepsakes and infuse a dash of Italy into your Christmas celebrations .

Discover the Best Italian Themed Gifts: Delight Your Loved Ones with the Essence of Italy

In conclusion, our comprehensive list of Italian gift ideas has something for everyone. If you’re searching for the perfect Italian gifts for your Italy-loving friend or that special person , you’ve come to the right place. From the highest quality Italian products to more whimsical and fun options, there’s a good idea for every taste and budget.

Making the perfect choice for your loved ones can be challenging, but with these outstanding selections, you can rest assured that the best Italian-themed gifts are just a few clicks away. So, go ahead and delight your friends and family with these remarkable offerings that truly capture the essence of Italy. Until next time, happy Italian gifting!

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Looking for Italian gift ideas for your Italy-loving family and friends? We’ve scoured the internet for the best ideas so you don’t have to. Whether your friend loves Italian food, coffee, fashion or books, there’s an idea here to get that gifting list checked off in no time. Plus, as we’re all about experiences, you’ll find lots of great ideas to bring a little piece of Italy.

Our top 5 ideas for the perfect Italian gift  

• 2024 Italy calendar   – a beautiful calendar which you can gaze upon to feel inspired to plan a visit to Italy or use to count down to yours!
• Ferrari experience in Italy – how about test driving a Ferrari on the streets of Modena and visiting the factory where these prestige cars are made > more info
• Italian Online Cooking classes – take yourself to the Italian Riviera and make basil pesto and 4 other recipes with our friend Enrica’s Liguria cooking course ,  learn to make pasta with Nonna or when in Rome, join this fun local cooking class in Trastevere
• Portable pizza oven – designed to re-create the effect of a pizzeria’s wood oven, an Ooni portable pizza oven is the perfect gift for any pizza lover
• Or, if you’re in the mood to splurge why not book an Untold Italy small group tour of one of the hidden regions of Italy ? It’s the greatest gift of all. Will it be Tuscany , Puglia or Sicily – browse our tour departures and find the right trip for you.

Article contents

Italy 2024 Calendar

Turn the page each month for an inspiring photo of Italy to keep you dreaming while you wait for your next trip with an Italy 2024 calendar

black friday deals

for Italy travel services and gear are here

Portable Pizza Oven

If your loved one has a passion for making pizza the Ooni portable pizza oven is the perfect gift. Choose from wood fired and gas powered to get your oven to the right temperature to deliver the perfect pizza whether they’re at home or on the go.

Italy Book Ideas

A thoughtfully chosen book about Italy is always a welcome gift. Some of the new releases from the past year include titles from some of our favorite authors and creatives that have appeared on our podcast . 

Wine Doors of Florence by Robin Gheesling

We’ve spent a lot of time curating Italian reads into a long list of books that are either set in Italy or have an Italian theme. You’ll find cookbooks, novels and photographic essays for inspiration all in our Italy booklist .

Italy Gift Baskets and Boxes

Take a trip all around Italy with a generous gift baskets full of delicious  and artisan made goodies. Choose from regional gift boxes shipped direct from Italy or delicious snacks and treats bundled up with artisan wares and even books.

capri gift box

Artisanal box (us), fabbri bundle (us), spirito gift basket, italy coffee gifts.

When you can’t be in Italy, a simple brew of Italian coffee can take you there in an instant. These Italy coffee gift ideas are an easy and thoughtful way to give the gift of Italy for many mornings to come.

A classically Italian and stylish gift is Italy’s favorite Bialetti stovetop moka pot – for classic or induction cooktops.

Experiences in Italy

Here at Untold Italy we love experience gifts. If they have a trip planned to Italy in 2024, why not gift your family and friends the experience of a lifetime. How about a cooking class in the Tuscan hills or a Ferrari driving experience. 

Italian Language Courses

Speaking Italian is a joy as it is such a beautiful, lyrical language. If you’d like to give the gift of language, we recommend the following online courses

• Intrepid Italian Learn Italian Fast – perfect for learning travel ready Italian
• Rocket Italian – comprehensive and multi-dimensioned approach to learning Italian to advanced level

Online Italian Experiences

While you wait for your trip to Italy, transport yourself there and build the excitement with these fun online experiences. From cooking classes to virtual tours, it’s never been easier to connect with Italy from home.

Italian Food Gifts

You could also create your own hamper with delicious Italian food goods available in your town. Look for biscotti, traditional panettone, olive oil and balsamic vinegar plus beautifully packaged Amarena cherries. We just love the jars they come in which can be repurposed as decorative items once the cherries have been gobbled up.

Italian Gifts for Her

Italians are well known for their classic style and beautiful fabrics. Choose a gorgeous Italian silk scarf or cute Italian themed charm to remind her of Italy. Italian made soaps are another indulgent gift that will be well received. 

Italian Gifts for Him

Whether he likes football or is a snappy dresser, there’s an Italian gift idea to suit. We love the Acqua Di Parma fragrance – it’s an instant way to transport you to Italy. Just add a cashmere scarf and he’ll be as well turned out as any well-heeled Italian.

Italy Gift Cards

Not just a last minute gift option (but very handy for that too!) gift cards allow them to choose their own digital guides and planners from us at Untold Italy or tour experience from Take Walks or one of our favorite food tour companies Eating Europe . 

The Gift of Italy

We think the perfect Italian gift is a trip to Italy ! After all, what could be better than strolling around a piazza, gelato in hand enjoying la dolce vita.

If you’re ready to start putting your dreams into action, head on over to our guide to planning a trip to Italy where we take you step by step through building the perfect trip for you and your travel companions.

Or, if you’d like everything taken care of, why not join us on one of our small group tours of hidden Italy where you’ll discover the Italy you’ve always dreamed of.

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• 37 of the Best Souvenirs from Italy to Take Home

If you are looking for the best souvenirs from Italy to fill your suitcase with, then you have come to the right place! We have family in Sicily, so we travel there quite often.

Italy is an incredible and culturally rich place to visit. As a result, sometimes it may be a little difficult to decide which souvenirs you should be purchasing that are truly representative of your visit.

During our many family trips to Italy, we have come home with a variety of items. From Soccer balls and jerseys to flags, magnets and Christmas ornaments, we have accumulated quite a collection of treasured trinkets.

With so many awesome items to choose from, we decided to put together a list of the best souvenirs from Italy that travellers need to take home.

One of the best parts of travelling is finding the perfect treasure or keepsake to take home.

Whether it reminds us of an adventure, a certain place we visited, or maybe even someone we met along the way, trying to find that truly unique gift can be a lot of fun.

And the best part is, no matter what your budget, you are sure to find souvenirs from Italy that are affordable, practical, unique, fun, and that represent this amazing country.

37 of the Best Souvenirs from Italy

To make things a little easier, we have broken down our list of best souvenirs from Italy into categories.

Whether you are shopping for kids, friends, relatives, or yourself, you are sure to find something that is meaningful or just plain fun!

Best Italian Souvenirs for Foodies

If you are anything like our family, food and travel are strongly intertwined. So naturally, quite a few of the best souvenirs from Italy that we want to mention, are edible!

1. Italian Chocolate

While most people usually think of artisanal chocolates coming from Belgium or France, Italy also produces a delicious selection of these goodies.

In fact, you really won’t have a difficult time finding artisanal chocolates in a wide range of colourful shapes and sizes.

Some of the top brands that offer premium artisanal chocolates are Caffarel, Modica, Perugina , Ferrero, Gianduiotto, and Cioccolata Venchi. One taste and you’ll be hooked!

My absolute favourites are the Perugina Baci chocolates. They are pretty much a Christmas tradition in our household. Each delicious chocolate has a message enclosed in the wrapper (like a fortune cookie).

2. Italian Cookies or Sweets

Of course, if chocolate isn’t your thing (really??), you still have plenty of options for Italian sweets.

After all, we cannot overlook the iconic Italian biscotti, almond cookies, pizzelle, and even hard candies or marzipan.

3. Olive Oil

Whether you are eating a delicious slice of pizza or enjoying an incredible pasta dish, it’s pretty much guaranteed that one of the ingredients is olive oil .

And like wine, olive oil is a classic Italian souvenir that is easy to take home with you.

Italy is the second-largest producer of olive oil in the world after Spain.

What could be better than taking home a bottle of olive oil to recreate your favourite Italian dishes at home!

Some of the best regions for olive oil include Sardinia, Sicily , Calabria, and Liguria. However, you won’t be hard-pressed to find quality olive oils all over Italy.

4. Truffle Oil

Italian truffles are known to be of some of the highest quality around. So what better time to buy truffle oil at an affordable price, than while you are in Italy?

Our absolute favourite use for truffle oil is on french fries!

Yep, turn those regular spuds into a fancy appetizer with a sprinkle of truffle oil and some freshly grated Italian Parmeggiano!

5. Italian Cheese

Although Italy may not be the first country that pops into your mind when you think of cheese, they definitely know what they are doing!

And every region in the country has a cheese that sets it apart from the rest.

From the spreadable blue cheese that comes from the northern town of Gorgonzola to Sardinia’s sheep-milk  Pecorino Sardo , and the Pecorino Romano from Rome, it may be hard to choose just one.

And call me traditional, but I absolutely LOVE Parmigiano Reggiano. Sprinkled liberally over pasta, or added to a charcuterie platter, it’s delicious!

Cheese could be considered one of the best Italian souvenirs for friends and family.

And the fact that it can be made into many different delicious dishes, makes it even more perfect to take home for yourself!

6. Italian Herbs and Spices

And speaking of spices, there may be other foods that you enjoyed during your trip to Italy and would like to recreate at home.

Foods like homemade tomato sauce, meatballs, meats, seafood, and sauces all have very distinct flavours.

In many Italian dishes , you will find spices like oregano, basil, parsley, rosemary, sage, and anise.

Throughout your travels, make a note of your favourite dishes and stock up on spices at the local market.

While you could easily buy all these spices separately at home, many Italian grocery stores and butcher shops will sell spice packets that are mixed and ready to use in your favourite recipes.

Spices are one of the easiest and least expensive foodie souvenirs from Italy to transport.

7. Traditional Balsamic Vinegar

One of my favourite indulgences while in Italy, was to eat bread dipped in olive oil and balsamic vinegar before a meal.

This simple appetizer was soooo delicious, and quintessentially Italian, that I wanted to take that flavour experience home with me.

Balsamic Vinegar is very versatile in that it can be used for cooking, adding flavour to salads or pizzas, and of course, for dipping.

There are many types of Balsamic Vinegar, including flavoured varieties. With so many amazing varieties, I guarantee that you will have a difficult time choosing!

My favourite from Italy is the fig balsamic we tried in Sicily.

8. Cured Meats

Cured meats are another of the most popular souvenirs from Italy for foodies. And just like with the cheeses, each region of Italy has its own specially cured signature meat.

For example, in Venice, you will get some delicious San Daniele prosciutto, in Milan and Northern Italy, you’ll find salami and bresaola, and if you like it spicy, head south to Calabria where you can sample some very hot sausages cured with chilli.

9. Sardinia’s Torrone

Authentic Torrone is an absolutely delicious, stick-to-your-teeth, sweet that the Sardinia region is famous for.

What North Americans refer to as nougat , is made with pure honey and nuts (walnuts, almonds, hazelnuts), and is much better quality than the mass-produced nougat we find in stores at home.

While nougat can be found in most shops in Sardinia, the best honey-made stuff can be purchased in the town’s weekly farmer’s markets, or even at local festivals and events.

So if you have someone with a sweet tooth, don’t hesitate to bring them some authentic Sardinian Torrone as their souvenir from Italy!

🇮🇹 Fun Fact: Tonara in Nuoro province loves Torrone so much, that they hold an annual  Torrone  food fair in April!

Without a doubt, pasta is the most famous Italian food. So taking home some artisan pasta as a souvenir makes perfect sense!

We are not talking about the mass-produced variety from grocery stores! It is not difficult to find an incredible assortment of hand-made dried pasta that is made from fresh local ingredients.

There are many types of pasta, made from wheat or whole grains, or those made with vegetables to produce vibrant colours.

And of course, if you have a certain shape of pasta that you enjoy, you will find that too!

Choose from some of the most popular such as Gnocchi, Linguine, Tagliatelle, Pappardelle, Tortellini, spaghettini, or macaroni.

Or perhaps go with something new like Orrechieti, Bucatini, and Cavatelli.

If you choose to buy from a grocery store, some of the popular brands include Benedetto Cavalieri, Afeltra, Voiello, Alce Nero, Il Pastaio di Gragnano, Verrigni, Antignano, Alfieri, or Mancini.

11. Italian Cook Books

One of Miss Sunshine’s (our oldest daughter), favourite travel souvenirs is cookbooks . She loves to cook, and this is a great way to try and recreate some of the fantastic meals that she has enjoyed when visiting new places.

So if you are a foodie, or have one in your life, then a cookbook is the perfect souvenir from Italy to take home.

Purchase something regional, or find a book with all your favourite recipes, you won’t be disappointed. Buon appetito!

12. Moka Pot (Caffettiera)

A caffettiera is something you will find in Italian homes not just in Italy, but all over the world.

These Moka pots are used to make espresso and come in a variety of sizes, shapes and colours.

The iconic pots can be purchased in Italy for a lot less than what the authentic ones cost in North America.

Bialetti is a popular brand for these awesome espresso makers and is a name you will see not just in households, but also in Italian cafes.

Known for their uniqueness, simple design and ease of use, a caffettiera is an essential souvenir from Italy.

13. Italian Espresso Cups

If you are a coffee lover, then without a doubt, you have sampled some espresso during your travels throughout Italy.

If that’s the case, then purchasing some authentic espresso cups might make a lot of sense.

This is especially true if you are planning to use your new Caffettiera to make coffee at home!

And really, espresso is meant to be only served in proper cups for that authentic experience.

These classic thick-walled cups can be found in ordinary kitchenware shops, or even specialty shops all over Italy. Italian espresso cups are definitely one of the best souvenirs from Italy.

And while we are on the subject of coffee, Italian coffee is famous worldwide. With popular brands like Illy & Lavazza , you really can’t go wrong.

Not only can you purchase incredible coffee in specialty shops, but you can also buy some pretty aromatic beans in supermarkets, convenience stores, and other local shops.

And coffee is easy to pack in your suitcase to take home with you, making it one of the best souvenirs from Italy.

Best Italian-Made Alcohol

Italian-made alcohol can be another souvenir you may want to consider bringing home with you. Of course, there is a limit to how much you can travel with, so keep that in mind.

Italy is definitely a leader in wine production. So while you are travelling around the country, be sure to stop in at a few vineyards, take a tour, and sample their products.

Tuscany  is home to Italy’s most scenic vineyards, as well as the country’s best-known wine, chianti. Dating back to the 8th century BC, it is Italy’s most ancient wine-producing region.

Most wine estates will even ship your order straight to your home address, making it one of the best Italian Souvenirs to get. 

16. Limoncello

Limoncello is definitely one of those quintessential flavours that you associate with southern Italy.

This incredibly popular Italian liqueur was originally produced in Capri and the region surrounding the Amalfi Coast.

Nowadays, Limoncello is produced and sold throughout the country. This is definitely one of my favourite souvenirs from Italy.

🍋 Insider Tip: Many places that sell Limoncello also make and sell Meloncello. It tastes like cantaloupe, is delicious, and you can’t find it anywhere outside of Italy. Trust me, we have tried!

While travelling in Italy, you are bound to come across Grappa. This hard liquor is made from pressing Italian grape seeds and skins.

Grappa is VERY strong and not for the faint of heart!

Best Souvenirs from Italy for Kids

Considering we are a family travel blog, we would be remiss not to mention the most popular and best souvenirs from Italy for kids.

While some of the items are just plain cute, others can be geared toward a child’s interests, hobbies, or collections.

18. Italian Books for Kids

You can find some really great children’s books about Italian. From interesting facts to Fairytales and everything in between, books are easy to pack but can get a little heavy.

My favourite, as well as Hubby’s, was always Strega Nona .

We have also bought many books for adults from our travels around the world. The last time we were in Sicily, Hubby also picked up a few of the Italian language Harry Potter books.

19. Italy Puzzle

Puzzles are a great way to keep kids busy. Whether it’s a picture of your favourite Italian landmark, a gorgeous landscape scene, or even a mosaic of your favourite Italian foods, puzzles bring joy to people of all ages.

And what better way to reminisce, than to spend time as a family working on a puzzle featuring a special place in Italy! It truly is one of the best souvenirs from Italy for kids.

20. Magnets

Our kids would tell you that magnets are hands-down the best souvenirs out there.

Magnets are easy to find, come in a ton of different styles and colours, are relatively inexpensive, and are easy to find in EVERY gift shop across the country.

The kids always ask for a magnet when we explore a new place. They are easy to pack in your bags, and just as easy to easy to display once you get home.

21. Pins or Patches

Another item we consider to be one of the best Italian souvenirs is a pin or patch . Small, inexpensive and easy to pack, these small items are often collected by kids and adults alike.

Choose a generic Italian flag, or maybe find something specific to the part of the country you visited, like the Triscele , which is the 3-legged symbol of Sicily .

22. Keychains

Keychains are probably one of the most popular items on our list.

They may seem old-school, but they are lightweight, easy to find, pretty inexpensive, and take up very little space in your suitcase.

Kids can use them for their house keys, attach them to backpacks, hang them in their room, or just add to a growing collection!

Hubby actually uses a couple of his keychains for various keys we have in the house to make them easier to find.

23. Pressed Coins

Pressed coins are small, inexpensive collector items that make great souvenirs. Our kids have books filled with pressed coins from all over the world that are perfect reminders of all their adventures.

Pressed coin machines will either use actual Euros or ‘slugs’ to create this one-of-a-kind souvenir.

These pressed coin machines can usually be found at tourist attractions, in a popular square (we found one in Erice’s main square , for example), and even inside some hotels.

A quick online search will give you the location, how many machines, and even the designs that can be found at each spot. And don’t forget to grab the handy collector books to store all the coins in!

Best Decorative Italian Souvenirs

When it comes to the best Italian souvenirs, some people prefer decorative items that will remind them of their travel adventures.

Trinkets that will be placed around the home, or used on a daily basis, are often a favourite for travellers.

24. Italian Flag

What better to remember your trip to our beautiful country, than by purchasing an Italian flag to take home?

It really is an awesome keepsake whether you prefer a small patch to stick on your suitcase, a small desktop flag, or a flag large enough to fly from a flagpole.

25. Tablecloths from Perugia

Most people don’t think of tablecloths when they are coming up with a list of the best souvenirs from Italy.

However, if you are visiting Perugia in the Umbria region, you will find some pretty incredible textiles.

Here, production dates all the way back to the 12th century. The tablecloths from Perugia are made with linen and decorated with a variety of blue geometrical patterns and shapes.

26. Murano Glass

Murano glass is probably one of the most popular souvenirs from Italy that people purchase while in Venice.

Having been in production since 982, the tradition of Murano glass has been fine-tuned into a true form of art.

Each vibrant piece of Murano glass is handmade and unique, so you can be sure your souvenir from Italy is going to be one of a kind!

From glassware to jewelry, clocks, figurines, lamps, and many more interesting pieces, you will have plenty to choose from.

You will definitely need to pay extra attention when packing it!

And if you do not feel comfortable carrying your souvenir in your hand luggage, the Murano glass factory will ship directly to your home.

27. Burano Lace

Burano lace is definitely considered a true work of art. Originally produced on the Island of Burano, which is just an hour’s boat ride from Venice, the lace is all handmade and very intricate.

Today you can purchase many items which incorporate Burano lace, such as scarves, tablecloths, and handkerchiefs. Just be aware of knock-offs when purchasing this exquisite lace!

28. Venetian Masks

And while we are still on the subject of Venetian souvenirs from Italy, masks are incredibly popular as well.

These Venetian masks actually have a fascinating history.

Worn to protect the identity of individuals, people were pretty much on equal footing while wearing elaborate masks.

This made them popular while conducting business transactions. 

Be sure to look for unique hand-crafted masks that are made locally, rather than the cheaply-made imported knock-offs.

29. Ceramics and Pottery

As one of the oldest forms of art known to man, pottery is definitely something you will find all over Italy.

Colourful ceramics of all shapes, sizes and for all purposes can be found in both small towns and villages, as well as in larger cities.

And depending on the region, you will find different patterns and colours that are prevalent.

In Piedmont, you will find the famous rooster decorating their ceramics, while in Sicily, lemons or cactus pears are the popular themes.

30. Porcelain

From dishes to tiles, Italy is home to some truly gorgeous porcelain. Whether you are looking for single tiles to hang as decor or sets of dishes with colourful patterns, you are sure to find them anywhere you go in Italy!

31. Christmas Ornaments

One of the easiest Christmas-related souvenirs from Italy you can find is ornaments .

From unique hand-made wooden ornaments to glass baubles, pewter and even a few kitschy items, ornaments can often be found year-round at various attractions.

Ornaments are small enough to carry, and depending on what you choose, can be pretty inexpensive, making them the perfect souvenir to take home.

The ornament I purchased in Sicily has gorgeous poppies on it. My only complaint, it is quite heavy so I need to be careful where I place it on my Christmas tree.

32. Rosary or Religious (Catholic) Items and Art

Whether you are a religious person or not, you can still appreciate the beauty of the artwork that can be found in Vatican City.

This epicentre of Christianity has no shortage of religious shops selling art that you can only find in Italy.

As a Catholic myself, we have purchased rosaries from churches that have patron saints with the same name as our kids, for their sacraments. It makes the item that much more special.

Items like rosary beads, pendants, statues, cards, and medals make for the perfect religious souvenirs from Italy.

Best Souvenirs From Italy That You Can Wear

One of the most popular and best souvenirs from Italy that you can take home, are items you can wear.

Whether it’s an Italian designer that you can’t get anywhere else or Italy-branded items with the colours of the flag, they make wonderful gifts for family and friends.

33. Genuine Italian Leather Goods

Italy is famous for its leather goods . Items like purses, bags, wallets, belts, gloves, and shoes can be easily found throughout the region of Tuscany.

So if you happen to be strolling through the streets of Florence, be on the lookout for the artisans creating these handmade items.

After all, they would make the perfect souvenir from Italy!

34. Perfume

Italy produces a number of popular brands of perfume and cologne.

And yes, although you can easily purchase them all over the world, you will usually find a better selection when visiting Italy.

Brand names like Giorgio Armani, Gucci, Laura Biagiotti, Dolce&Gabbana, Versace , Prada, and Bulgari, can be found in most cosmetics shops and department stores.

But if you are looking for something a little more unique – something you can’t find anywhere else – try some of the smaller artisan shops.

There you will find some amazing traditional perfumes made with extracts of herbs and plants.

A unique perfume like this would make a wonderful gift or one of the best souvenirs from Italy to take home for yourself!

35. Soccer Shirts or Ball Caps

Italy loves soccer. So purchasing either branded or replica shirts, jerseys, or ball caps can be the perfect souvenir idea, especially if you are visiting during a World Cup year!

In fact, during World Cup, you will find a ton of fun fan clothing, funky hats, fake mustaches, and jewellery that you can wear to cheer on the Italian team!

36. Handmade Shoes

If you are looking for an original Italian gift, then Italy is one of the best places to purchase handmade shoes.

Florence is famous for its leather, so you will have no trouble finding many local family-owned businesses, that have been around for generations.

But aside from small family businesses, you will also find many brand-name Italian shoes that are awesome.

Brands like Nero Giardini, Cafè Noir, Igi&Co, and Geox, carry affordable and comfortable shoes.

But if you are looking for more high-end pieces, then places like Just Cavalli, Valentino, Armani, or Salvatore Ferragamo will definitely carry plenty of options to catch your eye.

37. Unique Jewellery

And speaking of Florence, this beautiful city is also known for its jewelry. With more than 400 years of experience, Florence’s goldsmiths have been creating incredible pieces which are sold along the Ponte Vecchio.

Sardinia is another popular location for purchasing beautiful artisanal jewelry. With their tradition of fine gold filigree, silver and white gold with mounted gemstones, coral, or volcanic black onyx, you are sure to find something unique.

As always, you can also look for high-end brands of jewelry like Bulgari, Buccellati, Morellato, and Salvini.

There, you are sure to find the perfect (but expensive) souvenir from Italy.

38. Luxury Clothing

You cannot visit Milan without at least having a look inside all the designer shops!

Whether you have the means to purchase something should not deter you from at least window shopping!

And although Italian fashion brands like Valentino, Armani, Dolce & Gabbana and Versace have stores all over the world, you will often find that they have collections that are unique to Italy.

Of course, for those of us with smaller budgets, Italy also has many other great brand names that are more affordable.

Names like Germano Zama, Mariella Burani, Sandro Ferrone, Ermenegildo Zegna, Marella and Luisa Spagnoli, also carry some pretty nice pieces

39. Italian Accessories

Italians are famous for their perfectly coordinated accessories.

So while you are visiting Italy, you will see a multitude of shops carrying bags and wallets in all sizes and colours, shawls, ties, belts, key rings, hats, and gloves.

And depending on your budget, you will find local artisanal shops where the items are handmade, all the way to designer brands that will leave a dent in your bank account!

Some great brands to look out for include Moschino, Coccinelle, Furla, Emporio Armani, Missoni, and Versace.

What Product Is Italy Famous for?

Italy is definitely a country filled with indulgences. From incredibly rich food to gorgeous designer clothing, Italians certainly know how to live ‘la dolce vita.’

Wine, cheese, bread and gelato are just a few of the incredible things you need to try when visiting this culturally rich country.

As a result, some of these items definitely hit the mark when looking for the best Italian souvenirs to take home with you.

Of course, anything related to leather goods, festivals, art and historical sites are also popular items and products.

Where to Buy the Best Souvenirs from Italy

The absolute perfect Italy souvenir can actually be found and purchased all over the country!

Since we love to support local businesses as much as possible, we recommend buying your souvenirs directly from the artisans, local producers, or small-scale retailers that you come across in your travels.

With that being said, there are also many other places you can source your Italian keepsakes.

Shopping online from department stores, boutiques, or even retailers like Amazon may be an option if your suitcase is already busting at the seams!

We have also provided links to some of the best Italy souvenirs online, just to make it a little easier if you decide to go this route.

Tips on Buying Italian Souvenirs

Shopping abroad can be a lot of fun. But just like anywhere else, there are a few things to keep in mind before making a purchase.

Especially if your Italian gifts are something that you will be spending a considerable amount of money on.

• Always have an idea of what type of souvenirs you want, before you even arrive in Italy. This way, you research the best places to find them along your trip route.
• If you are purchasing something high-end, make sure it is authentic and not a cheap knock-off. Don’t be afraid to check labels, and don’t expect to find authentic brand name labels in markets.
• Quality over quantity is a good rule of thumb when purchasing souvenirs. 
• Shop local. If a region is famous for a particular item, then purchase it there. If you wait until the end of your trip, and you are in a different location, you may not find the same quality elsewhere.
• Check shipping costs before purchasing fragile or oversized items. This may influence whether or not you buy them. We saw many people in Venice spending a small fortune on shipping Murano Glass tableware home.
• Before purchasing a food item, be sure that you can take it home with you. Many fresh items are not permitted in luggage. Be sure to research this ahead of time.
• Also, most countries will impose a limit on the amount of alcohol and tobacco entering from a foreign country.
• Most importantly, be sure to leave enough space in your luggage for all of your incredible souvenirs from Italy!

Final Thoughts on the Perfect Italian Souvenirs

There are so many incredible things to see and do in Italy.

So when your visit comes to an end, we have put together an awesome list of the best souvenirs from Italy for you to take home with you.

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Marianne Giordano is the founder and writer for Pasta Pretzels & Passports. Together with her husband, John, and their children, the family has travelled to 15 countries, including 27 states in the US, and all over their home country of Canada. Marianne is responsible for planning all of her family's travel itineraries and dreaming up new adventures. A Canadian native, Marianne shares all her favourite family-friendly things to do while travelling the world.

Italy Souvenirs: What to Buy in Italy

When visiting Italy, you can’t help but be enchanted by its rich culture, beautiful art, and delicious cuisine. But don’t forget to take home something special. A unique Italy souvenir is a wonderful reminder of your travels every time you look at it! From Murano glass to Venetian masks, Italian products make great gifts for yourself or someone else. We’ll explore the best souvenirs from Italy so you know exactly what to look for on your trip. 

Table of Contents

A popular Italian liqueur, limoncello is made from the zest of lemons and has a sweet yet tart flavor. It’s often served as an after-dinner digestif or enjoyed over ice on hot summer days. Limoncello makes for a unique gift that can be found in many places throughout Italy. Look for bottles with bright yellow labels and ornate designs.

For those looking to buy the best quality limoncello, we recommend taking a Sorrento Coast Boat Tour with Limoncello Tasting . Not only will you get to bask in the sun on stunning waters, but you’ll also have the chance to discover which is the best limoncello to bring home with you.

Art Replicas

Italy is home to some of the most iconic artworks in the world, like the ancient ruins of Rome and the Renaissance masterpieces in Florence . While the originals are usually not for sale, you can always take home a replica instead. These replicas are often made by skilled artisans who have studied and replicated the originals as closely as possible. They make great souvenirs because they remind you of your time spent exploring Italy’s incredible museums and galleries.

You can often find replicas and prints of art pieces in the museums that house the works. So why not make the most of your museum experience with a tour? Our Florence Uffizi & Accademia Gallery Tour takes you to see David in the Academia Gallery. Or the Vatican, Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter’s Basilica Tour takes you to see some of the most famous religious paintings in the world. You’ll learn all the history and techniques behind your favorite works from an expert tour guide. Then you can share what you’ve learned with your family and friends through your replica at home!

Italian Cookbooks

Cookbooks are the perfect souvenirs from Italy, as they allow you to recreate the delicious flavors of Italian cuisine in your kitchen. Look for cookbooks that feature regional recipes from places you’ve visited. You can also check out specialized cookbooks that focus on a favorite Italian dish like pasta or pizza . Regardless of what book you choose, an Italian cookbook will always be a memorable and useful souvenir. 

You can also build your cookbook by taking an Italian cooking class. The Tuscany Pizza and Gelato Cooking Class from Florence and the Florence Food & Wine 5-Day Tour Package are two of our best cooking classes in Tuscany and they’re both great options for learning to cook the Italian way from an actual regional expert. A cookbook is an easy option, but nothing beats personal experience for learning and memory-making. If you’re not sure which food tour is right for you, check out our useful guide for how to find the best Italy food tour .

Venetian Masks

Venice is best known for its iconic masks. They are made of porcelain or leather and decorated with feathers, gems, and other materials. These traditional Italian masks have been used in Carnival celebrations since the 13th century. They remain popular today. Venetian masks make excellent gifts for anyone who loves art and history. They can be found in many souvenir shops throughout Venice.

To get the most authentic experience, check out the Venice Carnival Mask Workshop . You’ll learn directly from artisan mask makers and get to take home your very own handmade Venetian mask! A tour like this allows you to connect with local craftsmen and get to know local customs in a truly unique way.

Olive oil has been a part of Italian culture for centuries, and it’s not just used in cooking. It’s also used as a beauty product due to its many nourishing benefits. Olive oil is native to the Mediterranean region, so you can be sure that what you find in Italy is the real deal. Olive oil is sure to make for a great dinner conversation piece back home.

With so many places to get olive oil in Italy, it’s hard to decide what is the best option. The help of an expert tour guide is sure to narrow down your search. You can discover authentic olive oil to take home with you on the Masseria Evo Olive Oil Tasting Tour from Ostuni . Or you can explore Italy’s historic olive oil groves and get some exercise on the Biking Ancient Olive Plains from Montalbano Tour .

Burano Lace & Murano Glass 

Murano and Burano are two islands in the Venetian Lagoon. Your trip isn’t complete without visiting both of them. Murano is renowned for its exquisite glass art, while Burano is home to the finest lace-making workshops in Italy. Both these crafts have been passed down through generations. No two pieces are ever alike since each artisan follows their creative instincts when making them. So you can be sure your souvenir is one-of-a-kind! 

You can see both islands on either the Murano and Burano Day Tour from Venice or the Best of Venice & Venice Islands 2-Day Tour . You’ll learn the artisan processes on both tours and have your pick of souvenirs. This is your best way to see both of the islands and all their souvenirs in a short amount of time. Plus, you’ll talk to expert guides and local artisans that you can learn so much from.

Locally-Made Wine

Italian wines are some of the most popular in the world and with good reason. Italy produces a variety of reds and whites that are beloved for their complexity and flavor. These wines make great souvenirs because they are unique to Italy and come in all shapes and sizes. Plus, most Italian wines are relatively affordable compared to other European countries.

There are a variety of Italian Wine Tours that take you throughout the country. Some, like the Milan Wine Tasting Experience , focus on one place with a variety of wines. Others focus on one regional type of wine, like the Prosecco Tasting Tour from Venice . Whatever tour you choose, you’ll learn the ins and outs of Italian wine making and tasting from some of the most knowledgeable experts in the country.

Italian ceramics are some of the most beautiful and unique products you can find in Italy. Each region has its style, but for something truly special, head to the island of Ortigia. Located off the coast of Sicily, Ortigia is home to some of the most beautiful and unique ceramic pieces in Italy. Handpainted plates, bowls, and other objects feature bright colors, intricate designs, and classic Italian motives. These items are perfect for adding an Italian touch to your home or office.

You can wander through Ortiga’s craft and ceramic scene on the Artisans of Ortigia Tour . This tour is perfect for those who want to find a unique souvenir and support local vendors. You’ll also learn more about the ceramic process than you could have ever expected with the help of a local guide and vendors.

Make Memories Worth Taking Home with Tourist Italy!

While items are a great reminder of your travels, memories of your trip are always the best Italy souvenirs. And there’s no one better at making memorable experiences than Tourist Italy. With our wide range of tours and package tours , we allow you to make the most of your time in the Boot. Through unique experiences alongside knowledgeable guides, you’ll discover as much of Italy as you want. And it’ll be easier than ever to collect all these best Italy souvenirs from around the country! You can also take advantage of our travel guides and articles to plan your Italian getaway on your terms.

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25 Best Italian Gifts – Souvenirs from Italy

So, if you’re looking for an Italian gifts guide, you arrived at the place where locals will recommend to you what Italian gift to buy, and what Italy souvenir is the best for different people! The best Italy souvenirs are not magnets and postcards, there are much better gifts from Italy you could bring home with you! We’ll walk you through some souvenirs to buy in Rome Italy, but also other specific types of gifts from different regions, or towns in Italy ! We are sure that non of the below 25 best Italian gifts will disappoint you!

25 Best Italian gifts – Italy Souvenirs

Some of the below Italian gifts as we mentioned are region or city-specific. Therefore we’re answering questions like what souvenirs to buy in Bologna Italy, or other destinations around the country. You’ll see some of the unmissable, must buy souvenirs in Italy, and unique ideas for Italy gifts too. Everything from food products to ceramics, drinks, and much more! Make sure you keep enough free space when you’re traveling to Italy because you’ll need it to take home your Italian gift! For all of you who are not frequent travelers, we’ll share a few tips to take home these gifts safely, and of course to avoid having to throw them away at the airport, so read carefully what we say under each gift idea.

1. An Experience

One of the most unique souvenirs from Italy is taking a cooking class . For example, if you’re in Rome, you can book one of the Eatalian Cooks cooking classes , but you can join cooking classes in Florence , and all around Italy. This isn’t one of the Italy souvenirs that you could actually take home, but you can take home the memories of a lovely Italian food experience!

Therefore, if you’re looking for souvenirs to buy in Rome Italy, make sure you check out Eatalian Cooks and you join one of those beautiful cooking classes for pizza, pasta, and tiramisu in the heart of Rome, on Piazza Navona. Food experiences in Rome, and all around Italy are one of the most amazing things to do in the country, honestly. Learning to make your own homemade Italian dishes, pizza, pasta , desserts, and gelato is just amazing so we had to put this as our first suggestion!

2. Olive Oil

One of the must buy souvenirs in Italy is olive oil! There’s nothing more delicious, and multiversal usable Italian gift to take home with you. When it comes to gifts from Italy, a D.O.P marked extra virgin Italian olive oil is unbeatable! We also have a list of the best Italian olive oil brands , so you’d know what to buy if you want to buy olive oil in supermarkets. Olive oil is the Italia gift you should definitely get if you’re looking for what souvenirs to buy in Florence Italy .

This is true for the whole region of Tuscany , anywhere! If you find local farmer products, choose those ones definitely, and buy from local producers instead of supermarkets! Now, when it comes to olive oil, you should prepare for international airports in Italy ! Not only that you need to have this product in the checked-in luggage you have, but you must wrap it well enough that if it breaks, your luggage won’t be draining in olive oil.

One of truly the best Italian gifts is always the wines ! If you’re looking for what souvenirs to buy in Florence Italy, or any other wine region you’re visiting, make sure you make it possible to take home some wine with you! Italian wine as we all know is fantastic, and they are worldwide known. There are plenty of red wines , white wines , and sparkling wines to choose from after taste.

We’ve got also a list of the best Italian wine brands, so you can check what brand to look for when you’re buying. Except of course if you’re not buying from local producers since those are always the best! When you want to find traditional Italian souvenirs, the wine itself is the best pick. There are a few typical Italian food products and drinks to consider, and we’ll list them below!

Italian Liquor brands are phenomenal. We actually have a list linked here to check out the best brands! One of the chicest and perfect Italian gift is for sure a bottle of Campari. If you’re looking for good souvenirs from Italy ideas, lately on side of Campari, Aperol is a really popular drink too.

Taking a bottle of Aperol with you (if you live somewhere where it’s hard to find, or not at all) is a great gift to make a spritz. When it comes to Italian liquors as a kind of souvenirs Italia, since Aperol is more popular now around the world, Campari is the one that is better to buy as a souvenir.

Also, with Campari, you can do plenty of Italian cocktails , such as the simple spritz, Sbagliato, Negroni, or Americano. It’s a perfect gift, and a perfect drink too. You can always find Campari in the airports too, so even if you have only a bag you’re bringing on board, or you don’t have space in your checked-in bag, you can buy Campari in the duty-free shops.

5. Cold cuts

Here come those Italy souvenirs that are perfect for all meat lovers out there! This is a great topic for those asking what souvenirs to buy in Bologna Italy, Tuscany, the region of Emilia Romagna, Rome , and plenty of other parts of the country. Some of the best, and most unique souvenirs from Italy are those delicious cold cuts , salami, and ham.

If we’re looking at Bologna, you must buy Mortadella since this is its origin place, so Mortadella in Bologna is the best. This rule stands for the whole country. Always buy typical regional food, and always eat regional dishes where you are. In Emilia Romagna, the ham in Parma , the salumi, pancetta and the Koppa must be bouth in Piacenza.

In Tuscany, make sure whatever happens, you buy Porchetta. The most delicious cold cut you’ll ever try! In Rome, you should take home some Guanciale, the perfect meat for the delicious pasta alla Carbonara. Always make sure to check all the Italian food by region so you know what to eat and buy exactly in that specific place!

Well, what’s better than pasta in Italy? Speaking of which, if you didn’t check it earlier, if you’re in Rome, make sure you sign up for a pasta-making class ! One of the most preferred must buy souvenirs in Italy is pasta. It’s easy to transport, it’s not liquid, and it’s one of the most traditional Italian souvenirs you could ever pick. We’ve got a list of the best Italian pasta brands too!

When it comes to pasta, you can buy it as souvenirs from Sardinia Italy , from Rome, from Tuscany, from the many towns of Emilia Romagna, or Puglia . Italian pasta is different by region and even by town, so you might find completely different traditional pasta in Ferrara than in Polignano a Mare, or in Cagliari. This is the perfect souvenir to enjoy some more Italy for dinner!

Cheese is my favorite food ideas for Italian gifts! There are thousands of Italian types of cheese , and honestly, cheese is the best Italian gift for anyone who loves cheese. When you’re looking for souvenirs to buy in Rome Italy, you can buy the local Pecorino Romano, which is amazing in many dishes, but it’s one of the base components of one of the most famous Roman dishes , the pasta Cacio e Pepe. When you want to find traditional Italian souvenirs, Italian cheese is a top pick!

I mean, let’s talk of the worldwide famous Parmigiano Reggiano, or the Mozzarella, the Grana Padano, the Ricotta, and many hard cheese types that are easy to transport too! For example, if you’re looking for souvenirs from Sardinia Italy, you should definitely buy Pecorino Sardo! But again, look up regions, and buy local! Matured cheese types of the best to transport and they won’t go bad over long trips either.

8. Moka Pot

For all the coffee lovers out there, one of the most perfect Italian gifts is a Moka pot. The perfect coffee at home, the perfect Italy souvenir is definitely this one. You can buy a small one for 2 people, and those don’t occupy much space either. There’s one of the Italian coffee maker brands who are outstanding when it comes to Moka pots!

Bialetti is the most popular, most used, and overall the best Italian Moka pot that you can also purchase if you’re looking for Italian souvenirs online! They ship almost everywhere around the globe! On side of a real Italian Moka pot, you can also choose coffee, but we’ll speak about that separately. When it comes to Moka pot usage, the only thing I can say is that I couldn’t live without mine, and I had first a 2 person tiny one, and now I have a 4 person yellow beauty. Both from Bialetti!

9. Ceramics

When it comes to Italia gifts, and when it comes to unique souvenirs from Italy, the best thing you can buy is ceramics. Italians are famous also for their ceramics, and they are honestly beautiful! Take it from someone who’s addicted to ceramics! If it comes to good souvenirs from Italy ideas, you can buy decorative ceramics first.

But you can also buy plate sets and all kinds of pieces that are for great use in the kitchen . If you’re looking for the best souvenirs from Sorrento Italy, from Positano, or anywhere around this area of the Amalfi Coast, you will find the most beautiful ceramics there that you’ve ever seen! Another highlight for Italian ceramics is the Deruta ceramics. We’ve got a list of the best Italian ceramics brands, and the best Italian pasta bowl brands too!

10. Balsamic Vinegar from Modena

You never tried the best chicken, the best salad, or the best grill meats, if you didn’t use the Balsamic Vinegar from Moneda! The birth of balsamic vinegar, the first place in the world where you can buy the best quality balsamic vinegar is forever Modena! You can sign up for factory visits, and you can find local balsamic vinegar in shops all around the town! This is honestly one of the best Italy souvenirs for any foodie who loves cooking and grilling at home!

When it comes to food Italy gifts, the balsamic vinegar is fairly easy to transport since there are many that are in small bottles. You still need to be careful of course if it’s over 100 ml, to not take it on the board of the plane, and to pack it well if you put it in the checked-in luggage. However, when it comes to Italy gifts, I’m sure this one will be in your favor especially if you’re in Modena. But, you can find balsamic vinegar from Modena all around the country too!

11. Murano Glass

Murano glass is one of the most famous types of glass worldwide. If you don’t have time to get on a taxi boat and get to Murano to buy beautiful Murano glass products as an Italian gift for yourself or someone else, you can still find some pieces in Venice too. Though, since it takes only a few minutes to get to Murano from Venice , I’d highly recommend going to Murano and buying there.

When it comes to unique souvenirs from Italy, the Murano glass is something beyond imagination. They create the most beautiful decorations, ceilings, tableware , of course, vases, jewelry, and everything basically that could be made of glass. The designs are beautiful, honestly, and in Murano, you’d see different styles and designs from one shop to the other. Though Murano glass products are pricy, you don’t have to buy the biggest plate or the fanciest ceiling. There are plenty of small goods that are more affordable !

Grappa might not be the top pick for many, but in the meantime, it might just be the perfect souvenirs Italia could offer for many! Grappa is a strong drink, a spirit actually that’s consumed usually after dinner. It has a long history, especially up north, and there are plenty of well-established, impeccable quality grappa brands.

When it comes to alcohol gifts from Italy, beyond the liquors and wines, the grappa is another great pick. We’ll have one more suggestion for a drink as such though. Grappa is really similar to the famous “hellfire” drink in Hungary, the palinka, but this one is more about the taste, and not about the % of alcohol in it. Grappa is really enjoyable, and those who love whiskey would definitely love grappa too!

13. Beauty and Skincare Products

Another of the great Italian gift option is beauty and skincare products. There are plenty of amazing skincare brands and Italian makeup brands to pick from, and this, especially for ladies can be an ideal gift, and also one of the good souvenirs from Italy ideas you could think of. Italian skincare brands are mostly based on all-natural products, while the makeup brands are really great quality too.

So if you’re looking for some skincare brands, you should check Acqua di Parma, which you can find in their own stores in Rome and Milan , but you can find them in Sephora and similar stores too. l’Erborario is a natural skincare brand, and if you don’t have space in your luggage, you can order these online too. For makeup, I always recommend checking KIKO Milano, Pupa Milano, and eventually the Chiara Ferragni brand too.

14. Chocolate

Italian chocolate is on another level of Italian gifts. They speak a lot about Belgian chocolate or Swiss chocolate, but the Italian chocolate brands are at least as good as many of the other two. One of the must buy souvenirs in Italy is definitely the sweetest pleasure, some great chocolate! You can go for Perugina chocolates, Baci, which is a Perugina product and they are delicious!

Or you can pick some local homemade chocolate bars too. In Italy, the capital city of chocolate is Turin, so if you’re visiting Torino ( Turin ), you make sure to explore those local chocolate shops! We have made a list of the best Italian chocolate brands you can check to find some of the biggest names from Tuscany to Turin. And also, since chocolate is not liquid (though it can melt) it’s an easy-to-transport souvenir from Italy. Just make sure you wrap it in something if you’re traveling during summer!

15. Limoncello

So, we’ve covered wines, liquors, and grappa, and now it’s time to speak about another digestive drink for after-lunch and after-dinner, Limoncello! When it comes to Italian gifts, Limoncello is really popular, and especially down south this is the to-go drink after a meal instead of grappa. It’s basically like a grappa, only that it’s made with lemon.

The origin of the Limoncello is the Sorrentine peninsula and Sorrento since this is anyways known as the Italian lemon town. If you’re looking for Italian souvenirs online, you could find limoncello brands like Villa Massa to order from. Buying limoncello is the best of the best souvenirs from Sorrento Italy. Its taste is interesting, sweet, lemon taste, but you can sense the alcohol too pretty good.

Say hello to your delicious Italian coffee at home too! When it comes to Italy souvenirs, coffee isn’t occupying much space, you can easily transport it, it won’t crack, melt or break, and there’s nothing like Italian coffee! So for all coffee lovers out there who are looking for what souvenirs to buy in Florence Italy , or Naples Italy souvenirs and gifts, or Milan, Piacenza, and some similar hotspots, make sure to buy coffee!

There are specific brands from specific areas on our list of best Italian coffee brands, so make sure you check them out and check where they are from, so you know what coffee should you buy! If you’re asking for my opinion, there’s no Italian coffee brand like Illy. And I did try out all 10 (+4 others) that are on our list. I actually tried different roasts from most of these brands, and still, Illy is unbeatable! On side you can also get coffee cups .

17. Sweets and pastries

Italian pastries , sweets, and desserts are just like heaven. If you’re looking for Italy souvenir that can survive a few-hour flight too, look for pastries that don’t have cream in or on them. However, for amplifying the pleasure of staying in Italy, I suggest you try as many pastries and desserts as you can. Not only gelato is fantastic in Italy!

When it comes to souvenirs Italia can offer, small pastries and cakes with baked cream are the best to transport. There are plenty of pre-packed delicious pastries in grocery stores too, if you’re looking for something that’s more durable, and already in a safe package. Especially if you’re looking for Naples Italy souvenirs and gifts, make sure to look for pastries, since Naples is big on sweet things, not only on pizza!

18. Original Italian Books

This will be the perfect pick of Italy gifts for those who love collecting books as much as I do. I believe there’s nothing more beautiful in someone’s house than a library that has a nice diversity and quality books. Romance and fiction do not count as quality in this case! So, for those who can understand Italian would be worth visiting some antique book stores or exploring flea markets.

One of the most unique souvenirs from Italy, that’s also an incredibly precious gift too, to buy old copies of some of the biggest literature works and the most famous Italian books. For example, my personal favorite haunt was for Niccolo Machiavelli’s Principe book. Another beautiful piece I found was the complete collection of the operas of Dante Alighieri.

19. Italian Cookbook

Another idea for Italian gifts! Right, so for everyone who loves Italian cuisine, beyond taking those cooking classes, one of the best Italian gift options you have is buying local cookbooks . Though there might be an issue with this, since probably you won’t find all the best ones in English too, for anyone who wants to learn a bit of kitchen Italian , with some Google Translate, an Italian cookbook shouldn’t be a problem.

There’s no way you can learn to make traditional national cuisine than from the locals. That stands for Italian cookbooks written by non-Italians, or American Italians too. I’m highlighting American Italians only because while they are doing a great job in the kitchen, most of them don’t cook anymore, or at all in a traditional way those dishes. And you must know that the biggest allergy of Italians is if someone modifies something on their traditional dishes. Do that in front of an Italian, and you better drop everything and run away!

20. Perfumes

Perfumes are those gifts from Italy that you can easily buy in airports too, and they would probably cost even less than in the actual stores. Well, if you buy them in the duty frees’. There are plenty of amazing Italian perfumes from some of the biggest luxury brands you could’ve heard about. We actually made a list of the best Italian perfume brands too, so you can explore before buying!

Some of the best Italian perfumes to buy are from brands like Armani, Versace, Gucci, Dolce & Gabbana, and Valentino. At least that’s the overall accepted opinion. I definitely would suggest smelling around some Armani perfumes first though, especially the Acqua di Gioia is a top pick I believe. Versace has a few great smells I love and D&G too, but don’t forget also to check the BVLGARI perfumes! Those…!

21. Clothes

Right, so when you’re in Italy, clothes are some of those things that you should consider must buy souvenirs in Italy. We have made a list of the 35 best Italian fashion brands for you to pick from, however, it’s not only the luxury and famous brands you should think of when it comes to clothes. Clothing is something that is considered Milan Italy souvenirs since it’s the fashion capital .

However, in each town, you can find shops by local designers which are stunning. From Positano to Bologna, in each city and bigger town, there are plenty of stores of local designers to pick from. If you’re looking for clothing as souvenirs to buy in Rome Italy , you can check the best fashion brands in Rome, but you can also just walk down Via Nazionale to find some beautiful pieces.

Right after clothing, the other amazing category Italians are unbeatable and what’s great for Milan Italy souvenirs, or well, anywhere in the country with shoe stores is to buy shoes in Italy . The artisan work, the high-quality leather, and the design. All of these add up for you to want to have at least one pair of shoes made in Italy.

We’ve put together the best Italian shoe brands for you to pick from, but there are plenty of artisan shoe stores in each of the cities to buy beautiful pairs of shoes. One of the best Italian gifts you could make for yourself or someone you love is a beautiful pair of sandals , high-heels, or Oxford dress shoes for men.

23. Watches

When it comes to beautiful Italian souvenirs online, and Milan Italy souvenirs, I really recommend you keep an eye on watches. Indeed most of the biggest Italian luxury brands have their own watch lines too to pick from. These are usually more affordable pieces than clothing and shoes from luxury brands, but of course, there are high-end pieces too made of full gold and diamonds.

What the point is when it comes to watches is that you can find plenty of beautiful watches for all types of budgets. We also have a list of the best Italian watch brands which will make it easier for you to know what brands you should look for when it comes to watches. The best part about buying a watch in Italy is, that it’s so tiny, it can fit easily in your luggage. Or, if it’s for yourself, you can just wear it during your travel.

24. Jewelry

Italy is famous for its artisans and craftmanship also when it comes to jewelry. Some of the finest top jewelry brands in the world are actually Italian. Think about Bulgari, Pomellato, or Damiani. On side of these big names at the most famous Italian jewelry brands , there are plenty of Italian handmade jewelry brands to pick from for your Italian gifts.

This is actually a topic that you will be overwhelmed in Italy to pick the right ones for you. From Rome to Florence, from Venice to Milan there are hundreds of artisan jewelry stores, fine jewelry stores, and unique brands that make the most exquisite jewelry you could ever buy. We have articles also for jewelry stores in Florence , Milan , and Venice too. Make sure to check them out if you want to pick jewelry as your Italy souvenirs.

Last but not least, when you want to buy Italy gifts, those breathtaking Italian designer handbags are to watch for! This is one of the best categories for Milan Italy souvenirs since you can find dozens of stores for the most beautiful, best quality handbags. If you’re up for designer handbags, make sure you pay attention to Dolce & Gabbana, and Moschino especially.

Of course, the king of bags and leather shoes is Prada, but Moschino for example is more affordable . If you’re looking for trendy pieces, you should also check the Chiara Ferragni bags too! However, to not point out just 3 brands, you should definitely check our list of the best Italian handbag brands ! This will make your search easier!

Wrapping up the 25 best Italian gifts – Italy souvenirs

As I said at the beginning, Italian souvenirs are not just about magnets, small statues, and snowballs. The best Italy souvenirs are the local products. Food products like cheese, pasta, or pastries. Clothing and accessories are other perfect picks for Italian gift, and there are also all those unique souvenirs from Italy like ceramics, grappa, antique books, and artisan jewelry too. We hope you found something on this list that fits your taste, and don’t forget to check out all those linked brand lists too!

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Italy Gift Ideas for Your Favorite Italophile

• Italian food/kitchen gifts
• Italy travel-related gifts (including travel books)
• Italy books (photo books, fiction, non-fiction, etc.)
• Italian music
• Italian movies/DVDs
• Gifts to help you learn the Italian language
• Random (and sometimes funny) Italy-themed gifts

>> There’s quite a bit of stuff here. The original list included a whopping 65 items, and grew in subsequent years. It got a bit of an overhaul/facelift in 2011, so hopefully it’s easier to find what you’re looking for!

Happy shopping, Italophiles!

Food/Kitchen

Any true Italophile likes Italian food, even if they’re not necessarily interested in cooking it. Here are a few food-related items – either ready-made edibles or tools to help you create them – that’ll make anyone’s kitchen a little more Italian.

• Nutella – Who doesn’t love this gooey chocolate hazelnut spread? Ever since it became more widely available in US supermarkets, Nutella is a pantry staple in many homes (including mine). But did you know it’s made by an Italian company? That’s right, Nutella’s Italian. And it doesn’t have to be World Nutella Day to enjoy it, either. So now you can proudly give Nutella to any Italophile on your gift list and help them spread a little Italian cheer on their morning toast.

• illy Coffee – Everyone’s got a favorite coffee, and for many Italians it’s illy Coffee . It also happens to be my favorite Italian coffee as well, and I like to get the grind that’s specifically meant for a mokapot, like the Bialetti you’ll find next on this list! The tins are re-usable, too – in our house there’s one in the kitchen that serves as the resident coin container, but I’ve also known people to bake small loaves of Italian bread in them to give away as gifts. Yes, really.

• Bialetti Mokapot – Just because you’re not in Italy doesn’t mean you can’t make great Italian coffee at home; and you don’t even need an expensive espresso machine to do it. Every Italian household has a Bialetti Mokapot , and some even have more than one in different sizes (there are two in my house). Pair one of these with a tin of illy Coffee and you’ll please any coffee addict. Do note that when they say it’s a “3-cup” size, that means three espresso cups – not three big American coffee mugs. And yes, the 1-cup Bialetti is absolutely adorable. And read my Italian coffee guide to learn all the different coffee drinks you can make with your Bialetti, or order when you’re in Italy! (If you’d like something more substantial on your kitchen counter, I’m the proud owner of the Ferrari of espresso machines – a shiny red FrancisFrancis! X7 iperEspresso maker that makes perfect espresso, every single time, with the push of a button. Not only that, my friends are the official non-warranty repair shop for all FrancisFrancis! machines , so if your machine needs some TLC it’ll be in good hands.)

• Espresso Cups – Now that you’ve kitted your Italian kitchen out with the right coffee and coffee maker, you can’t very well drink out of the same old beat-up mugs, can you? Of course not. That’s why you need something like this Espresso Cup Set , which comes complete with cups, saucers, and even tiny spoons. There are a gajillion shapes and designs of espresso cups out there, and you can have a ball collecting different ones. Just don’t let the kids get ahold of them thinking it’s a tea party set.

• Marocchino Cups – My friend Sara introduced me to the marocchino (a delicious blend of espresso, steamed milk, and cocoa powder), and it’s now my favorite Italian coffee drink. And while you can certainly make it at home and drink it out of the regular espresso cups you’ve already bought, in a real Italian cafe they’ll always use Marocchino Cups like these.

• Pocket Coffee – I also have Sara to thank for another coffee-related treat on this list: Pocket Coffee . It’s a shot of espresso encased in a dark chocolate shell, and it’s heavenly. They’re only available seasonally, so they’re only for sale in Italy in the cold months of the year – in the hot weather it would melt on the shelves – and they’re not even always in stock at Amazon. But I was pleased to find Pocket Coffee listed there, so you may not have to go all the way to Italy to pick some up. (Though you’re welcome to do so if you wish!)

• Balsamic Vinegar from Modena – Italophiles know that not all balsamic vinegar is created equally, and the real thing from Modena is the only way to go. The good news is that all true balsamic that’s been authorized to bear the name by the Modena council goes into the exact same bottle shape, regardless of the company that’s selling it. So if it’s in a bottle that looks like this, it’s the real thing. Of course, you can spend a pretty penny on Balsamic Vinegar from Modena when it’s been aged for 50+ years, but even the 12-year stuff is pretty mind-blowing.

• Olive Oil – While true balsamic vinegar only comes from Modena, you can find olive oil that originates in lots of Mediterranean countries. But for an Italy lover, only Italian Olive Oil will do! And of course we’re talking extra virgin olive oil here. This isn’t the stuff you use to coat the bottom of the frying pan, this is the stuff you drizzle over salads, veggies, pasta, pizza, soup – you name it. It’ll cost a little more, but you’ll use it judiciously and you’ll love every peppery bite.

• Limoncello – There’s still time before the holidays to make your own homemade limoncello , that sweet lemon concoction from southern Italy , and give gorgeous and tasty gifts to all the Italophiles on your list. But if you can’t be bothered to make your own, you can always go to your local liquor store and buy some (it’s not as good as the homemade stuff, but it’ll do). To make the gift extra special, however, be sure to include a set of limoncello glasses like these from Vietri , or a complete set with a bottle and cups like this one , or a set that includes all that plus a painted tray to carry everything as well.

• Gelato Maker – And by “gelato maker” I don’t mean that you invite me to your Italophile’s house to make gelato for you. I mean you give that person an ice cream machine so they can make their own gelato! There are lots of these on the market that are really affordable; I have this Cuisinart Gelato Maker , and I sometimes use it so much that I went ahead and got a Spare Cuisinart Gelato Maker Freezer Core so one is always ready. If you really want to go all-out, or you’re thinking of opening a gelato shop out of your kitchen, then the Lello Gelato Maker is an industrial-strength wonder.

• Italian Wine – Of course, a good bottle of Italian wine is never an unwelcome gift at the holidays, especially to someone who appreciates what the Italians have done with the grape over the years. There are lots of varietals to choose from, and you can spend anywhere from $15 to $90 or more, so on this one it’s best if you make use of the friendly wine merchant at your local market. Just make sure they know what they’re talking about before you take their word as gospel – and ask if they’ve got wine tastings coming up where you can sample before you buy. Need more information before you buy? This Vino Italiano guide is comprehensive and will make you an Italian wine expert in no time.

• Perugina Baci Chocolates – Perugia is home to one of the biggest chocolate festivals in Europe, Eurochocolate, and it’s also home to Perugina, the big chocolate maker. For a delicious (and affordable) taste of Italy, a box of Perugina Baci Chocolates is a great choice. They’re chocolates with a single hazelnut inside each one, and “baci” means “kisses,” so this is, in effect, the Italian version of the Hershey’s kiss. Except it’s way better.

• Parmigiano Reggiano – While wrapping an entire wheel of authentic parmigiano reggiano cheese may be a bit unwieldy (not to mention expensive), you can easily give the Italophile on your list a big wedge of Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese . You’ll know it’s the real thing by the imprint on the rind.

• Tuna – Okay, this one may seem a little strange, but hear me out. I’m told by my Italophile friends that Italian Tuna in Oil is a gourmet treat. This isn’t like the stuff at your local supermarket, they tell me. It’s phenomenal, they tell me. It’s like no canned tuna you’ve ever had in your life, they tell me. I’m going to have to ask for some myself this year to see what all the fuss is about.

• Italian Cookbook – Want to help out your resident Italophile with a few pointers in the kitchen? Then look for an Italian cookbook that emphasizes authentic recipes. A favorite in my house is Jamie’s Italy by Jamie Oliver, and Mario Batali’s Simple Italian Recipes comes recommended as well. For desserts, the fabulous Dolce Italiano is a must-have.

• La Cucina Italiana Magazine Subscription – For the cook in your life, you can treat them to a year’s worth of Italian cooking inspiration with a subscription to La Cucina Italiana magazine .

When your Italophile is actively planning an Italy vacation, the gift-giving is easy. Next to traveling, researching a trip is usually the second-best thing, so any number of the items listed below would be welcome treats for the vacation planner.

• Italy Guidebooks – Get the trip planning started on the right foot with a couple of good guidebooks. Personally, I’m a particular fan of Rick Steves Italy and Lonely Planet Italy – I tend to buy both before a trip, and bring both with me, although that usually ends up being overkill. The LP guides contain more history (good for pre-trip reading), and the Steves books are lighter-weight. If you’re not covering the whole country, you could also tear out and pack just the sections you’ll need to save space.

• Audio Guides/iPhone Apps – As paper becomes more passé, and as more people are carrying iPods when they travel, the audio guide or iPhone app travel guide is getting to be more common. If your Italy lover will be toting an iPod player, then you can get some city guides, maps, walking tours, or audio guides for them – or simply get an iTunes Gift Card and let them download their own walking tours and podcasts. (Don’t forget to include a list of all the Italy iPhone Apps they could take with them on their Italy trip, too!)

• Moleskine City Notebooks – I wrote about the Moleskine City Notebooks after I used them myself, and I think they’re an excellent gift for anyone who’s traveling to a place they’ve been before, or for people who really do prefer to create their own guidebooks rather than sticking to what Lonely Planet says they have to see. There are several Italian cities covered in this series, including the Moleskine City Notebook for Rome .

• City Secrets – I really like these books; they’re not a replacement for a comprehensive guidebook (at least not for a first-time visitor to Italy), but they’re an excellent supplement, and they’re actually quite interesting to read even if you’re not planning an Italy trip anytime soon. They’re full of little tidbits and stories about things you may not otherwise see, told by people who know Italy well. City Secrets: Rome covers just Rome, and City Secrets: Florence, Venice & the Towns of Italy covers the rest of the country.

• PopUp Maps – I’ve said before that these are my favorite Italy maps , so I won’t belabor the point. I’ll just say that these PopUp Maps are sheer genius, primarily because they’ve eliminated the need to learn how to re-fold a giant city map in the middle of a crowded sidewalk and thereby being labeled as a tourist in a split-second, and you should buy one for each Italian city that’s on the itinerary.

• Marling Menu Master for Italy – I just found a copy of the Marling Menu Master: Italy recently at a bookstore, and although it doesn’t totally replace my very favorite (and yet sadly out of print) Italy food/menu guide , “ The Hungry Traveler: Italy ,” it does an okay job. It’s equally as compact and user-friendly, it’s just missing the regional/seasonal specialty lists that make “The Hungry Traveler” unique. (And if you find a used copy of “The Hungry Traveler: Italy” somewhere, buy it!)

• The Dark Heart of Italy – If the Italophile in your life read “Under the Tuscan Sun” with one eyebrow raised, thinking Italy can’t possibly be that dreamy all the time, then The Dark Heart of Italy by Tobias Jones should be next on their reading list. It’s a healthy dose of Italian history and politics mixed in with soccer, food, religion and everyday life, and it paints a pretty accurate portrait of Italy today. This is a must-read for anyone who’s contemplating a move to Italy as well. I should note that despite the gloomy title, the book is written by someone who truly loves Italy – he’s just trying to understand what makes it tick.

• An Irreverent Curiosity: In Search of the Church’s Strangest Relic in Italy’s Oddest Town – An Irreverent Curiosity was easily one of my favorite books of 2010, a tale of intrigue with Italian and Catholic history expertly woven in. The “strange relic” in the book’s title is the holy foreskin of Jesus, and the author, David Farley, spends a year living in the odd hilltop town in Italy that housed the relic before it was lost. Or stolen? Or something else? You’ll just have to read the book to find out.

• In Etna’s Shadow: Culinary Adventures from Eastern Sicily – In Etna’s Shadow is by WhyGo Italy contributor Karen Landes, and it’s a pretty and heartfelt ode to Sicilian food and cooking, and makes a great gift for foodies, Italophiles, and armchair travelers alike.

• Italy From Above – Most of us don’t have the opportunity to hire a helicopter and fly around over the Italian countryside to see what it looks like from on high, but Italy from Above lets you see what you’ve been missing. If you’re planning to give this one away as a gift, make sure to get one for yourself as well. It’s just that lovely.

• Sprezzatura – Italians don’t need much of a reason to count the ways their homeland is fabulous, but if you want to give your Italophile a few more reasons then look no further than Sprezzatura , or “50 Ways Italian Genius Shaped the World.” My friend Michelle says it’s one of her favorite books , and it covers both things that lots of people know about and also some unknown gems that are sure to make any Italian boastful.

• The Miracle of Castel di Sangro – When you combine an Italophile with a sports fan, you’ve got to have The Miracle of Castel di Sangro by Joe McGinniss on your list. It’s the true story of the triumphs of a little Italian soccer team told with humor, insight, and great affection. And you don’t have to be a sports fan to enjoy the tale.

• A Season With Verona – This is another Italian soccer book, and a personal favorite. A Season With Verona is the story of author Tim Parks following his Hellas Verona team around the country for an entire season – away games, home games, sometimes with the rowdy fans and sometimes with the team itself. It’s as much about Italian fan culture as it is about the game.

• My Cousin the Saint – If you’ve ever wondered what it might be like to have an Italian saint as an ancestor, then you’ll enjoy the tale of someone who does in My Cousin the Saint by Justin Catanoso. You can hear Justin talking about the book and the experiences he writes about in this episode of the Eye on Italy podcast .

• In Tuscany – Don’t let the author name here fool you, this isn’t just another book in the “Under the Tuscan Sun” series. Instead, In Tuscany by Frances Mayes is primarily a beautiful book of photography that really capture that amazing Tuscan light and shows why Mayes and countless others have been seduced by this region. You’ll also find a few recipes and essays in the book, too, but don’t feel badly if you just page through it looking at the pictures. (That’s what I do.)

• The Europe Book – While this one isn’t entirely about Italy, The Europe Book gets honorable mention on this list because it’s a lovely coffee table book that covers all of Europe and could inspire even greater travels than an Italy book alone could do. It’s put together by the folks at Lonely Planet, who have a similar book for every continent and one for the whole world as well, in case you’ve got other travel lovers on your gift list.

I happen to be a big fan of Italian music – this is partly because I like to think it helps me learn the language, and partly because there are just some Italian artists that I’ve really come to like quite a bit. The trouble is that keeping this list updated with what’s current on the Italian music scene would be a full-time job. So here are a few classics, plus a few more contemporary Italian pop artists I happen to like, and an invitation to see what new releases the artists listed below have put out since I made this list – or scout out new artists on RadioItalia.it .

• Sanremo Festival CDs – Each year, Italian musicians compete to represent the country at the European music festival called Eurovision; the competition in Italy is the Sanremo Song Festival, and the compilation CDs that come out after the festival’s over each year are a fun way to find out about new Italian pop music. The current year’s Sanremo CD is as good a place as any to start, though there’s at least one (if not a few) for every year.

• Pavarotti – The world lost a great tenor when Pavarotti died in 2007, but his voice lives on. With Pavarotti Forever you get a collection of the arias and songs he was best known for. A Pavarotti CD is a must-have for any Italian music collection.

• Fabrizio de Andre – I’ve heard de Andre described as an Italian Bob Dylan, a singer/songwriter who may be decades in the past but left such a lasting mark both with his music and the messages in his songs that he remains beloved by young and old alike. This 3-CD set of Fabrizio de Andre songs is a great start to any de Andre collection.

• Andrea Bocelli – Bocelli is kind of a good middle ground for music lovers who can’t quite get into opera all the way, but who like the idea of Italian opera. His album Andrea Bocelli: Incanto came out in 2009, just in time for the holidays, but it’s still a great gift this year.

• Renato Carosone – One of Carosone’s songs was featured in “The Talented Mr. Ripley,” and Renato Carosone: I Successi includes not only that song but many others that he was famous for. This is old-school Italian music at its best.

• Nek – I and other Italian students agree that Nek is a great singer to listen to if you’re learning the language, as he enunciates so clearly. He’s also a great singer with really catchy melodies. Start with Nek: Best of Nek and expand your collection from there.

• Ligabue – For a bit more of a rock n’roll style, you can’t go wrong with Ligabue. A good place to start is his two-disc Greatest Hits set including Ligabue: Primo Tempo and Ligabue: Secondo Tempo . Either (or both) would be great gifts for the Italy music lover.

• Eros Ramazzotti – Eros is quite popular in Italy, and is one of the many Italian singers who also records most of his albums in Spanish to appeal to a wider audience. As such, one of the new songs on the Eros Ramazzotti: E2 greatest hits collection is a bouncy duet with Ricky Martin that was all over Italian radio early in 2008.

• Neffa – Part jazz, part pop, part rap, Neffa is a bit hard to categorize. But whatever he is, I love his music. I particularly love Neffa: Alla Fine Della Notte , but any one of his CDs is a hit as far as I’m concerned.

• Giusy Ferreri – Ferreri shot to stardom a few years ago on the Italian equivalent of American Idol, and has been called the Italian Amy Winehouse (without the drugs). Her breakout CD was Giusy Ferreri: Gaetana .

Movies/DVDs

Note that DVDs which play on Italian DVD players will not work on DVD players in the United States. There are different types of machinery involved, so you’ll either need two different kinds of players or will need to make very sure that any foreign DVD you’re buying is meant to be played in a US machine.

• Cinema Paradiso – This Italian classic is beloved the world over, and with good reason. And this deluxe edition of Cinema Paradiso includes both the original theatrical version and the director’s cut, which really changes the way you think about the characters! It’s worth seeing both versions.

• Il Meglio Gioventù – This drama series aired on Italian TV and was such a hit that it was later released on DVD. It’s a 6-hour marathon if you choose to do it all at once, but The Best of Youth (which is what “Il Meglio Gioventù” means) artfully tells 40+ years of Italian history through the experiences of one Italian family, so it’s worth making the 6-hour commitment.

• Benvenuti al Sud – If you love the Italian south, you’ll love this film. Benvenuti al Sud is Italian for “Welcome to the South,” and tells the tale of a Milanese postal worker who’s punished with an assignment to work at an office on the coast near Naples. Even if it’s predictable at times, it’s delightfully heartwarming – and the stereotypes the northern people in the film have about the south are no joke, either.

• Il Postino – While the story told in Il Postino is ultimately a sad one, it’s a gorgeous movie just dripping with incredible southern Italian scenery, not to mention a sweet love story and the poetry of Pablo Neruda. It’s a classic that should be in any Italophile’s collection.

• Under the Tuscan Sun – Personally, I thought this movie was a little ridiculous (sometimes a lot ridiculous), but it’s hard to beat the scenery. So even if you don’t buy the romantic tale Under the Tuscan Sun is trying to sell, you can just lose yourself in the backgrounds. (And if you’re into this kind of thing, the Italian guy who’s the love interest in the film ain’t bad scenery himself.)

• My House in Umbria – Although My House in Umbria was actually filmed in neighboring Tuscany, you don’t have to worry about those details. Just sit back and enjoy the Italian landscape.

• Rick Steves DVDs – Even if you’re not planning a trip to Italy, Rick Steves: Italy’s Cities 2000-2007 is a fun way to get to know the country. It’s a collection of Steves’ programs over the years highlighting the cities of Italy. The companion collection, Rick Steves: Italy’s Countryside 2000-2007 , covers – you guessed it – the countryside.

• Italy Revealed – This interesting program ran on the Discovery Channel some time ago, and although I think some of the stories felt a little forced, the cinematography is gorgeous and the HD DVD makes the colors pop in an unreal way. Italy Revealed may not reveal anything about Italy that you don’t already know, but you’ll have to admit that it’s eye candy.

• Francesco’s Italy: Top to Toe Francesco da Mosto is the tour guide you’ve never heard of, but once you’re done with this program you’ll wish you could hop into his Alfa Romeo the next time he speeds through Italy. Francesco’s Italy: Top to Toe is only available from the BBC (where the program originally aired), and unless your DVD player is region-free that means the DVD won’t work in American players. In the US, the program ran on the Travel Channel, so you can keep an eye out for it to re-broadcast there, or you can get the BBC book Francesco’s Italy instead.

• Inside the Tuscan Hills – This series of programs about Tuscany’s hill towns doesn’t rise to the marketing level of Rick Steves or Globe Trekker, but Inside the Tuscan Hills is a charming look at the region through the eyes of the filmmaking couple behind the shows.

Language Learning

There are so many ways to learn a language, it’s important to get the right tool for the right person. You know your Italophile best, so choose the right tool (or tools) from this list to help them on their way to speaking Italian like a pro.

• Italian Textbook – Whether you’re taking a class or studying on your own, having a good textbook is key. When I was teaching, I used Italian: A Self-Teaching Guide , and I also liked Italian the Easy Way . Some textbooks also come with CDs so you can hear the words pronounced, which can be really helpful (espcially if you’re not taking a class).

• Italian-English Dictionary – No matter what else you’re doing to learn Italian, a good Italian-English Dictionary is indispensable. I like the Oxford one (I’ve had mine since 2001), but there are dozens to choose from. And for the serious Italian student, there are huge hardcover dictionaries that aren’t very good for travel, but they don’t leave any words out!

• Italian Phrasebook – For the Italian student who’s planning a trip to Italy, a small phrasebook is a good idea. You may remember all the key things you need to know how to say, but it’s nice to have a cheat-sheet handy just in case. My favorite is the Rick Steves Italian Phrasebook because it’s got everything you’ll need as a traveler with some fun phrases thrown in for humor, and it’s also got a small dictionary in the back.

• Audio Program – Is your Italophile someone who spends a lot of time commuting? Then a Living Language Audio Italian CD set is a good option. It’s an all-audio course, so there are no books to pay attention to.

• Computer Software – For the interactive learner without an Italian class nearby to sign up for, Rosetta Stone Italian or some other computer-based language program is a good alternative.

• Streetwise Italian – And when you need a break from all that polite and useful Italian, pick up a copy of Streetwise Italian and learn all the words your Italian best friends would have taught you and for which you might have gotten your mouth washed out with soap.

• Italian Magnets – Y’know those poetry magnets that were so popular years ago? Well, they’re multilingual now. You can get Magnetic Poetry: Italian and cover your fridge with Italian words. You may even discover your inner Italian poet. And not even know it. Okay, I’ll stop.

• Italian Word of the Day Calendar – For a daily reminder of the language you’re trying to learn, pick up the latest year’s edition of a Berlitz Italian Phrase a day Calendar and then try to work your new word or phrase into everyday speech.

• Language Class – If there’s a community college in your area, consider enrolling your Italophile in a non-credit Italian class. I’ve been both a student and a teacher of classes like that, and they’re great fun from both sides.

Miscellaneous

If you’ve made it this far and still not found that perfect gift for the Italophile in your life, then I hope something on this list of miscellaneous Italian goodies strikes your fancy!

• Italy Calendar – What better way to enjoy the beauty of Italy every day than with the latest year’s edition of this photo-a-day Italy Calendar ? There’s not only a big picture for every month, there’s a small picture for every single day of the year.

• Italian Flag – No Italophile’s collection of Italian-ness is complete without the tricolore , the Italian Flag ! Flagpole not included.

• Italy Flag Tree Ornament – Who wouldn’t want to show off their Italian pride at the holidays with this lovely glass ornament of the Italian flag ? It’s an added bonus that the Italian tricolore is also Christmas colors!

• I’d Rather Be in Italy Hoodie – When I saw this “I’d rather be in Italy” hoodie , I couldn’t resist including it in the gift guide. I know I could wear this thing every day (at least the days when I’m not actually in Italy, that is).

• Carthusia Perfume – Anyone who’s been to Capri or the Amalfi Coast has probably heard of Carthusia perfume , the company that was started on the island of Capri hundreds of years ago. The scents are all evocative of the region, and a sweet gift for anyone on your list. (My personal favorite is Mediterraneo; it’s lemon-scented summer in a bottle to me.)

• Italy Key Chain – You don’t have to drive a Ferrari or a Lamborghini to have a little bit of Italy with you every time you hop in your car. Heck, you don’t even need a car to need a keychain, and with an Italian flag keychain you can adorn your keys with a bit of Italia.

• Italy Oval Car Stickers – I don’t know about you, but I miss the old days of all the European car stickers that showed which country a vehicle was from (these days, it’s included in the license plates so no stickers are necessary). Bring back a little bit of the past with your own Italy car sticker , whether you’re in Italy or not.

• Italian Horn Pendant

• Venetian Glass – It can actually be kind of risky to buy Venetian glass outside of Venice, because there’s no guarantee you’re getting the real thing. But if you’re not as worried about that and just want something pretty and Venetian-like, then a Venetian Glass Necklace is a nice choice (and this one does say it’s real Murano glass).

• Florentine Paper – Florentine paper is gorgeous, all colorful curlicues and gold leaf, but if you can’t go to Florence to get it then you can pick up these Florentine Note Cards as a handsome substitute.

• Italian Soccer Jersey – There’s nothing like showing love for your team by donning their jersey. If your Italophile doesn’t yet have a team, then let me recommend mine – because an AC Milan Jersey goes with any skin tone. And if you’d prefer to show love for country rather than one particular squad, then nothing but an Italian National Soccer Team Jersey will do.

• Ferrari Gear – Gearheads will appreciate anything bearing the logos of one of the famed Italian auto manufacturers, whether it’s Lamborghini, Alfa Romeo, or Fiat, but the one everyone recognizes is the dancing horse of Ferrari that’s displayed so prominently on this Ferrari Shirt .

• Italian Vocabulary Shower Curtain – Who doesn’t love a bit of whimsy in the bathroom? When you combine whimsy with something that’s actually educational, you’ve got a winner – like with this Italian Vocabulary Shower Curtain . Genius. (Though I’m still not sure why you’d need to learn the word for “pineapple” while you’re showering. I mean, if you wanna shower with a pineapple, I guess that’s your business, but still…)

Dream of Italy Gift Goodies My friend Kathy of Dream of Italy has a few gift subscription packages for her award-winning newsletter this year, as well as Christmas cards decorated with lovely Italian scenes and Italy-fied gift baskets. The newsletter especially is ideal for any Italophile, and especially for anyone who’s got a trip to Italy planned in the coming year. You’ll find more information about each of these Dream of Italy gift ideas by clicking on the links below:

• Dream of Italy Newsletter Gift Subscription Packages
• Dream of Italy Christmas Cards
• Dream of Italy Movie & Travel Gift Baskets

Whew! I hope you’ve found something that’ll make the Italy lover on your gift list smile this holiday season, but if you think I’ve left off something that should be featured, please let me know by leaving a comment below!

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Must buy in italy — top 19+ best italy souvenirs & what to buy in italy.

Italy owns many world-class souvenir shopping areas and malls. Markets with many famous specialties are decorated with eye-catching in presentation and luxury shops by Italian designers have long been well known all over the world. Wherever you go, Italian crafts are the star of the merchandise display. Italy has a long history of creating the world’s finest handcrafted products, food and continues to claim unsurpassed quality in products bearing the “Made in Italy” label. If you are wondering what is a best souvenir or gift to buy when traveling to Italy, the following article will help you find the answer right away. So, what to buy in Italy, what is a good souvenir from Italy, what is the best souvenir from Italy, what is the best thing to buy in Italy, what souvenirs to buy in Italy and what to buy in Italy for souvenirs? Let’s check out our suggested 19+ top things to buy in Italy, must buy in Italy, best Italy souvenirs, best souvenirs to buy in Italy, best things to buy in Italy, must buy souvenirs in Italy, must have souvenirs from Italy as well as where to buy them to help you choose the meaningful Italy gifts to bring back!

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Finding authentic, handcrafted Italian souvenirs or gifts isn’t always easy, but the best way to do this is to know what are they and where they’re sold. If you don’t know where to start, don’t worry. Here are the best Italy souvenirs and best Italy gifts and where to buy them.

Must buy in Italy: Footwear (shoes, sandals, boots…)

What to buy in Italy, it can not help but to mention handmade shoes, using special materials by famous designer brands that visitors should not miss. With a wide variety of shoe styles, from a few tens of dollars to thousands of dollars, are sold in many stores in the major cities of Italy. Most stores offer various sizes for you to choose from, so you don’t have to worry about choosing a size.

Famous shoe brands in Italy are Bruno Magli, Giovanna Zanella Caeghera, Nero Giardini, Café Noir and Igi&Co. Italian footwear has a beautiful design, brings comfort and ease to the user, and at the same time, they are quite reasonably priced. If you want to buy more high-end products, check out Valentino, Just Cavalli, Armani, or Salvatore Ferragamo.

You can order your own shoes, it only takes about 3-4 days to have your shoes that fit your feet. The handmade shoes will definitely be a very meaningful gift that you get when you come to Italy. You can choose shoes with special designs and materials from famous brands.

Stop in Rome, if you have a good budget, you can stop by brand stores such as Prada at Piazza di Spagna, or Dolce & Gabbana, Gucci, Valentino, Just Cavalli, Armani, or Salvatore Ferragamo and countless stores from famous brands another world.

If branded shoes make you shy because they are expensive, you can visit smaller shops, rest assured because their quality is not inferior to Gucci or Prada. But must consider carefully before buying because the possibility of getting fake “made in China” is not low at all.

Best things to buy in Italy: Clothing

It is obvious that shopping in Italy cannot miss clothing products, because Italy owns extremely famous fashion brands, Italy is also considered the world’s fashion capital. You can easily find luxury clothes from world famous brands to cheap imitations of street vendors enticing tourists.

Take the opportunity to visit the Borghetto Flaminio or M. A. S market to visit other popular shops, you will buy the right clothes at a reasonable price. More upscale, you can go to luxury shopping places like Maga Morgana in Via del Governo Vecchio shopping street or Nu Yorica at Piazza Pollarola.

Best Italy souvenirs: Italian Silk Scarf

The Italian silk scarf has become one of the symbols of this country. So you definitely have to buy one when you come here! This scarf will be useful when used in winter. Both warm and stylish, it pairs well with both clothes and dresses. You will look extremely chic when walking down the street with a deep-colored scarf on your shoulders, and gentle elegance with a bright-colored scarf. You look like a true beautiful Italian lady!

Scarves are the perfect choice to buy a souvenir item or take home for yourself. It is not difficult for you to find a scarf you like at the shops in the Roman market or go to the larger stores in Rome because there will be many different designs, materials, different colors. Incredibly beautiful design will be ready to meet your aesthetic.

Top things to buy in Italy: Bracelets

Souvenirs are always meaningful items after trips. Italy also has a lot of attractive souvenirs. Referring to souvenirs, it is impossible to forget an Italian bracelet with a light, simple and stylish design. Each store displays a wide range of designs to suit all fashion styles.

What to buy in Italy for souvenirs: Ceramics

One of the gifts that symbolize traditional Italian art is ceramics. Italian ceramics are highly appreciated by international tourists for their sophisticated beauty, presenting the perfect blend of ancient beauty and modernity. Tuscany, Umbria and Sicily are the regions that offer some of the finest handcrafted ceramics. You can buy plates, teapots, bowls, spoons, jars and glasses, etc. to give as gifts to family and friends, or to decorate your home.

What is the best thing to buy in Italy: Buy leather goods in Florence

With famous Chianina cows and a thriving business center in Florence, Tuscany has all materials to create excellent leather products. Located on the banks of the Arno River, Santa Croce Market in Florence provides 35% of Italian leather products.

Despite you can find authentic Italian quality leathers all over Tuscany and even near Umbria, Florence is still the best place to shop for handmade purses, jackets or stunning belts…

Florence leather goods are genuine cowhide. All leather items are meticulously designed and sewn by hand. Florence began to produce leather goods in the Middle Ages. Today it is one of the leading Italian leather goods production sites. You can find many Italian souvenirs such as bags, purses, belts or coats, etc.

Florence has many large shopping stores in the central area. Head to Santa Croce Market to find out what the biggest brands are selling. If you only have one day in Florence, take a lunch tour at the San Lorenzo market, where dozens of stalls and shops sell all manner of leather products.

Best souvenirs to buy in Italy: Perfume

Perfume is an important item that has brought Italy to the top of world fashion. Therefore, this will be one of the interesting souvenirs with bold Italian style that tourists should give to their relatives or friends, especially your lover. Note that depending on the brand and product line, Italian perfume will have different prices. Top perfume brands recommend you: Acqua di Parma, Armani, Valentino, Laura Biagiotti or Dolce & Gabbana.

Must buy in Italy: Handbag

Leather bags are also an ideal choice for you. Owning a handbag bought in a fashion capital like in Italy will definitely give you a sense of satisfaction. Although the sale of branded goods in Italy is very strict, you can still find imitation leather or imitation brand goods at roadside shops. It is better to choose to buy at brand stores. Or ask experienced people who have shopped to find the best place. Don’t forget to bargain when buying bags at shops, or even in brand stores. You might be overcharged!

Be careful to avoid encountering street merchants selling fake, low-quality Gucci or Hermès bags. It’s best to negotiate the price, otherwise don’t choose.

Best Italy souvenirs: Jewelry

Are you interested in handmade jewelry? Having come to Italy, you should try to buy it! With mainly gold, silver, and precious stones, the design is very simple and delicate. The price of these items is therefore very affordable, not as expensive as other similar items in other countries.

Jewelry is divided into two categories including high value and medium value. High-value jewelry such as Tuscan marble and elaborately designed Murano glass. Low-value jewelry is handmade items from rattan and silk. Depending on your budget, you can go to shopping malls, small shops or street stalls to own delicate jewelry that is suitable for you. The popular types of jewelry visitors can choose to buy are items made of silver, gold or white gold jewelry. In addition, many types of high-end jewelry are also attached with precious stones or coral.

What souvenirs to buy in Italy: Murano glass

Murano, an island off the coast of Venice, has remained a producer of top quality glassware in Europe for centuries. As Venice was a major trading port transporting goods from all over the Mediterranean and the Far East, the city is famous for its glass-making traditional method, that influenced by cultures such as Roman, Greek, and Roman, Asian.

Visitors will be extremely impressed by the skillful shaping ability of artisans, who can make anything from chandeliers to earrings, bottle caps with exquisite details to perfection.

When choosing to buy glassware in Murano, be careful because fakes are rampant everywhere, even on the island of Murano itself. You should look to the big and original brands such as Original Murano Glass to ensure the real thing.

If you want to admire more glass designs and learn about the history of this industry, you can visit the Murano Glass Museum at Palazzo Giustinian on the island of Murano.

What is the best souvenir from Italy: Masks in Venice

If you are not too interested in fashion items but want to bring home gifts imbued with Italian culture, we believe that a colorful mask often worn at Venice Carnival will make you satisfied.

You can buy masks made according to the traditional method at Ca’ Macana store in Calle delle Botteghe or Toletta streets. However, make sure that the typical traditional masks of Venice will cost you no less than 12 euros/item.

What to buy in Italy for souvenirs: Ceramics in Vietri sul Mare

Like all towns on the Amalfi Coast, Vietri sul Mare is home to delicious food and stunning views. But what really gives Vietri sul Mare popularity is the town’s tradition of ceramic making.

Although crockery is sold throughout the Amalfi Coast, only the artisans in Vietri sul Mare can harmonize centuries-old traditional crockery making with today’s modern style to create ceramic vases, bowls, jars, plates and decorations for both indoors and outdoors.

All ceramics in the Amalfi Coast region are designed by hand with drawings and patterns that truly reflect the life of the people of the Mediterranean. Brightly colored sunflowers, lovely lemons and grapes, and charming landscape paintings, all appear on the ceramics products here. Whether you want to buy a full set or just one, these perfect souvenirs from Italy will bring a joyful atmosphere to your family. The price of crockery is usually very affordable, however, if you want them to ship to a certain address, you often have to pay an additional shipping fee.

When visiting Vietri sul Mare, make a stop at Fabbrica di Ceramiche Solimene factory to better understand the pottery tradition and recent developments in the craft.

Must buy in Italy: Como’s silk

Silk has been produced in Como and nearby towns like Bellagio for more than four centuries. Chinese silkworm farming spread to the eastern Mediterranean, to Sicily and then to northern Italy and finally to Como town.

However, it was not until Italy began to industrialize in the 18th century that Como became the largest silk producer in Italy. Today, Como still maintains its brand. Como supplies 85% of silk in Italy and 70% of silk in Europe. It also supplies silk for many major fashion houses in Milan, Paris, New York and many other famous names.

You may have noticed that the silks in Como and Bellagio are sold at relatively reasonable prices. When you walk around the stores, you will see high-quality fashion products combined with many new designs or existing models.

Top things to buy in Italy: Food

In addition to the familiar pizza and pasta, if you want to enjoy other food when traveling to Italy, buy olive oil, sun-dried tomatoes, Parmesan cheese, chocolate, these foods are easy to find in all places both shops and supermarkets, convenience stores. There is a place where you can choose the best food is the small street stalls near the Trevi Fountain in Rome.

Each region in Italy is famous for its variety of specialties. From Amalfi lemons to Perugia cured meats, Tuscan truffles and Puglia tomatoes. You don’t have to buy all the specialties and fill your suitcase. However, bring a few meat, ham, wine, olive oil or bottled beverages – all are great gifts, bringing the taste of Italy to your home.

Must buy in italy and best Italy souvenirs: Dried Pasta

The country of pasta and pizza. Pasta are just an ordinary consumable item in Italy but it can be a great souvenir. Pasta is the most famous Italian food. Therefore, buying dried pasta as a gift may not need to be said, the recipient also knows that you have just had a very meaningful trip to Italy. There are many kinds of pasta come along with various sizes and shapes such as: Gnocchi, Linguine, Bucatini, Tagliatelle, Pappardelle, Cavatelli, Tortellini…

It will be a big mistake if you do not buy pasta as a gift after your trip to Italy. Spaghetti is a type of pasta and is also a famous dish all over the world, and is one of the most sought-after gifts in Italy. If you are looking for a typical Italian food, pasta is the number one choice. There are different types of pasta, made from wheat or whole grains. The most famous brands that visitors can refer to are Benedetto Cavalieri, Afeltra, Voiello, Alce Nero, Il Pastaio di Gragnano, Verrigni, Antignano, Alfieri, or Mancini…

Best things to buy in Italy: Balsamic Vinegar

When Italians eat bread before a meal, they usually enjoy it with olive oil and balsamic vinegar. You can also use it for cooking, adding flavor to salads or pizzas. There are many types of Balsamic Vinegar and cheap prices, so it is very suitable for gifts. Usually, vinegar comes in liquid form but you can also find it in solid form.

What to buy in Italy for souvenirs: Salt and Truffle oil

Italian truffles are known for their highest quality. Therefore, when you come here you will have more opportunity to buy different salt or truffle oil at an affordable price. Your food will taste so much better when using them to enhance flavors.

Best Italy gifts: Limoncello

It is a famous liqueur from the south of Italy. Sorento lemon liqueur with high alcohol content, should be drunk chilly with a small glass. The design of the bottles is as varied as the Italy country shape or the lemon shape. Even if you don’t go to southern Italy, you can easily find them all over the country.

Must have souvenirs from Italy: Olive oil

Italy is the second largest producer of olive oil in the world after Spain. Black olive oil has very good uses, along with the Italian brand, so many visitors buy it as a gift. If you have the opportunity to visit Italy in the fall, it will be great to visit olive groves. You have the opportunity to see and personally harvest olives. What’s more, you’ll get a quality bottle of extra virgin olive oil.

Best souvenirs to buy in Italy: Illy & Lavazza

Italian coffee is famous world wide, Illy & Lavazza is the major coffee bean brand in Italy. You can also buy coffee machines in their stores. Coffee beans are cheaper when you buy them in Italy and you can easily find them in supermarkets or convenience stores, shops.

Bialetti Stovetop Coffee Makers

If you are a coffee lover, you will cannot forget the taste of coffee you drink during your time in Italy, very special. Bialetti is a popular espresso maker in Italian cafes and households. The price is cheaper when buying in Italy with a variety of designs. Renowned for its uniqueness, simple design and ease of use. It’s an essential Italian souvenir.

Must buy souvenirs in Italy: Chocolate

Chocolate is a popular sweet food of many people around the world, especially in the West. Italian chocolate is also very popular. It has a deliciously appealing flavor and variety. Five types of chocolate brands are popular and famous in Italy you can refer to: Modica, Perugina, Ferrero, Gianduiotto, and Cioccolata Venchi.

Pocket Coffee Chocolate

A good souvenir and gift at an affordable price, pocket coffee chocolate. Chocolate contains powerful espresso, combining the sweetness of chocolate and the bitterness of coffee. You can buy in supermarkets for more reasonable prices. There are different sizes for you to choose from.

Baci Chocolate

Is a typical Italian chocolate that tourists love. The nuts inside the chocolate are very mouthwatering. When you open it, you will see a small message inside, bringing a little joy. There are different flavors for you to choose from.

What is the best thing to buy in Italy: Marvis Toothpaste

The famous Italian toothpaste, Marvis. The luxurious packaging is perfect for gifts. There are many flavors for you to choose from. Famous for being a natural toothpaste that does not contain any artificial coloring agents.

Cera di Cupra Rosa Face Cream

You can also buy this product from supermarkets or convenience stores in Italy. Because the cream has an effective skin protection and excellent moisturizing effect, it is suitable for dry skin. The scent is quite strong so it’s best to try before you buy.

Must buy in Italy: Cheese

In the list of gifts to buy after a trip to Italy, cheese is one of the foods that cannot be missed. Italian cheeses are plentiful, such as: Pecorino Romano or Casu marzu from Sardinia, especially Parmesan Cheese. These are the most famous cheeses and can be made into many different dishes. Cheese is considered a gift suitable for all ages of gift recipients, you should not ignore this suggestion!

Dried Mushrooms

If you love the famous Italian pasta, why not buy one of the indispensable ingredients to make this delicious dish – dried mushrooms? Mushrooms are dried, and stored in a vacuum bag. You can easily find dried mushrooms in many supermarkets in Italy. Among them, porcini mushrooms are one of the most expensive and premium dried mushrooms.

Top things to buy in Italy: Furniture

Italy is also proud to be the center of world famous furniture design and of course the prices are extremely expensive. Italian furniture is not sold in luxury furniture centers such as in the US, Germany, UK, etc., but through online stores, especially for brands such as Minotti, B&B Italia, Cassina.

Alternatively, you can go to Milan Factory Outlets to buy items with negligible discounts and of course beware of special bargains and scammers.

Must buy souvenirs in Italy: Cruciani Bracelets

An Italian bracelet with a light, simple and stylish design. There is a wide range of designs and colors to suit all fashion styles. In Rome, there is no Cruciani store but you can find it in the Choses store, near the Spanish square.

KIKO Cosmetics

The Italian national cosmetic brand, Kiko, is famous for its cosmetics with good quality and very affordable prices.

Roberts rose water (Distilled Rosewater)

Roberts Rose Tonic is a famous cosmetic brand that you can buy in supermarkets at an affordable price. Made from 95% natural ingredients and still produced in the traditional way, extracted from natural rose by high temperature to strengthen the skin’s protective function. It can be used as toner, spray or mask.

Must buy in Italy: Italian wine

Have you heard of wine or grain alcohol from Italy? These drinks have a wonderfully passionate taste that will make you remember forever. Any store-bought liquor is a premium drink.

Not as famous as French wine, but a trip to Italy wouldn’t be complete without a few bottles of wine in your luggage. You will find them in any store, the older the wine bottles are, the more precious they are and their prices also depend on the age.

When you visit Tuscany, a region of Italy, you can find vast vineyards and quality wine tours and of course premium wines. There are more 2,200 wines produced in Italy, one of the countries with the largest wine production. To avoid the strict procedures or regulations for alcohol at the airport customs gate, you can use the best door-to-door delivery service.

Must buy in Italy, best Italy souvenirs:Some other shopping tips in Italy you need to know

• Do not think that buying goods in developed countries does not have fake goods, poor quality as well as fraud, so to buy satisfactory souvenirs we should buy at reputable brands, stores with name, avoid buying goods on the sidewalk, street vendors.
• Carefully check that the items before buying are properly labeled with product information and specifications. If you have local friends, it is best to ask them to guide you.
• Never bargain when buying fruit in Italy because the seller will consider it a serious insult.
• The way to buy fruit in Italy is also a bit different, tell (or point) the fruit you want to buy, the seller will choose for you the most delicious things possible. If you want to eat right away, add the word “per oggi” to your offer.

Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in and from Rome you can refer to

• Shared Fiumicino Airport Transfers (FCO) for Rome by Terravision
• Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill Tour
• [Buy 1 Get 1] Rome Big Bus Hop-On Hop-Off Tours (Open-Top)
• Rome to Florence Day Tour
• Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill Skip-the-Line Entrance Ticket in Rome
• 1 Roma Pass for 45+ Attractions
• OMNIA Vatican and Rome Card
• Vatican & Rome Combo Sightseeing Tour
• Venice Excursion Day Trip
• Day Trip to the Ruins of Pompeii
• Positano and Amalfi Coast Day Tour
• I Love Rome Hop On Hop Off Panoramic Bus Tour
• Rome Hop-On Hop-Off City Sightseeing Bus Tour

Are you looking for more Italy travel guide: Tours, activities, attractions and other things? Let’s check it out here . And travel guide for Florence , Venice , Milan , Positano , Cinque Terre , Pisa .

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Italy Souvenirs: 19 Special Italian Souvenirs and Momentos to Buy in Italy!

Marco Santos

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Planning a trip to Italy and wondering what to buy in Italy to take back home, as the perfect Italian Souvenirs? Then this guide will hopefully inspire your purchase with these 19 stunning Italy Souvenirs suggestions.

Italy is a truly wonderous country to explore, from the ‘Eternal City’ of Rome to the glorious and historic city of Florence , to chich Milan , or charming Puglia , there is a surprise around every corner. 

With so much diversity of Italian sights, landscapes, flavours, and traditions all crammed into one amazing country, it’s hardly a surprise at all that Italy features on almost every traveller’s wishlist and should definitely be visited at least once in a lifetime!

If you’re planning a trip of your own, then you’ll no doubt want to buy an Italy souvenir or two, or three, to remember your Italian adventures by! And that’s exactly why we wrote this Italian souvenir guide, to help inspire you to find and buy the very best souvenirs from Italy!

Regardless if you’re looking for the perfect Italian food item, perhaps a book about Italy , or a stunning jewellery piece, this guide has you covered!

Disclaimer: This post contains links to services or products that I trust and recommend and from which I may earn commissions. Read our privacy policy for more.

Pssst…Have you packed all your essentials? Make sure to read our European packing list post to ensure you’ve ticked all the packing necessities off your list!

What to Buy in Italy – The Best Souvenirs in Italy!

Finding the perfect Italy souvenir to remember your travels by or even a gift for a friend back home can be tough. Luckily, Italy is filled with many wonderful souvenirs – whether you’re a foodie, fashionista or into interior design, you’ll find the perfect memorabilia for you. 

The zestiness of Limoncello is arguably one of the most quintessential Italian flavours you can get. This well-known Italian liqueur was originally produced in the region surrounding the Amalfi Coast. Today, it’s produced and sold throughout the country. So why not take this home as your Italian souvenir to share with your friends?  

While most people immediately think of pizza and pasta when talking about Italy, the country is also a prominent wine producer. Personally, I think the best way to choose vino as a souvenir is to go to the vineyards and sample them yourself. Most wine estates will ship your order straight to your home address, making it an easy Italian souvenir to get. 

Tuscany is famed for its winemaking, and some of Italy’s best wines come from the sunny region of Puglia .   

Depending on where in Italy you’re travelling from, you may want to check out and book one of these top wine tours in Italy !

Italian Olive Oil

Good quality olive oil is a staple in any Italian kitchen. So why not take this authentic Italian souvenir home with you and use it to recreate your favourite dishes? If you happen to find yourself in Italy in Autumn, you’ll be treated to some freshly harvested olive oil. 

Whilst there, consider booking one of these Olive Oil tasting tours in Italy and choose your favourite to buy from!

Italian Cookbook

If you’re a foodie planning to take some delicious Italian foods back home, then a cookbook is the perfect accompaniment. This way, you’ll get to recreate some authentic cuisine for your family and friends back home. 

If your trip to Italy is still some way off and you want to get your hands on a great Italian Cookbook, then you’re in luck! You don’t have to travel all that way, instead, get this wonderful Old World Italian cookbook today!

While in Italy, you’re bound to come across this hard liquor. Pressed from Italian grape seeds and skins, it certainly packs quite a punch. Consider taking this back home as an Italian souvenir and toast to the wonderful memories you made on your trip through Italy.

Traditional Balsamic Vinegar

Balsamic vinegar may seem like a strange suggestion for a souvenir from Italy. But, this particular balsamic vinegar comes from Modena, Italy and took between 12 and 25 years to make. I think you can understand why it was included in this list. 

Artisanal Chocolate 

While most people typically associate artisanal chocolates with Belgium or France, Italy also produces a delectable selection of these goodies. Available in a range of different and colourful shapes and sizes, artisanal chocolate makes for an ideal Italian souvenir. 

Some of the top artisanal brands that offer premium quality chocolates are Caffarel, Perugina and Venchi. You really can’t go wrong with any of these. 

Italian Ceramics & Pottery

You simply can’t go wrong with ceramics from Italy either! 

If you want to take a souvenir back from Italy that will last a lifetime, look no further than Italian hand-painted ceramics and pottery. You’ll find a wide variety of these goods in the regions of Tuscany and the Amalfi Coast. From plates and teapots to spoons and jars, there’s a perfect ‘made in Italy’ souvenir for you. 

Murano Glass

These stunning glass decor items make for a special Italian souvenir. Made from silica, limestone, soda and potassium, these vibrant glass objects come in all shapes and sizes. They’re named after the location in which they were first made, Murano, which is an island north of the city of Venice . 

Why not consider booking a Murano glass factory tour and glass blowing demonstration and peek into the fascinating world of glass blowing in Italy!

Perugia Tablecloths

Wanting to take a piece of Italian art back home with you to remember your trip to Europe? 

Then you should consider getting a linen tablecloth from Perugia. These white tablecloths feature blue geometrical patterns and have been popular since the 13th century. In fact, they’ve been so admired that they’ve featured in paintings by renowned artists such as Siena’s Pietro Lorenzetti . 

Lion Door Knockers

As you stroll through the streets of Venice , you’re likely to notice the endless array of impressive brass door knockers. These either feature a human or lion head, with the latter being a symbol of Venice. 

These beautiful Venice souvenirs are bound to add some Italian flair to your home. 

Venetian Masks

One of the most famous souvenirs from Italy, the Venetian mask, has a fascinating history. These elaborate masks were worn to protect the identity of individuals. This meant that all citizens remained equal. They were often worn during undercover business activities or at promiscuous events. 

While you stroll through the city, admiring some of Italy’s famous landmarks , you’ll find both cheap imported masks from China as well as unique hand-crafted masks to choose from. 

Leather Goods

Some of Italy’s most popular products include leather goods. From leather jackets and shoes to bags and belts, there’s a timeless Italian souvenir waiting for you. 

One of the best places to go shopping in Italy for these goods is in Florence, where artisans have been perfecting the production of leather goods since the 13th century. These also make for great Italian gifts for friends or family back home that will last a lifetime!

Burano Lace – Venice, Italy souvenirs

As famous as Murano Glass, this cherished lace is a true work of art. It originally came from the Island of Burano, which is just an hour boat ride from Venice.

The lace is made through a complicated technique, and most are made using machines, not by hand. Today you can buy many items which incorporate the Burano lace, such as scarves, tablecloths, and serviettes. But beware, some stores will try to pass off lace made in China or Taiwan as Burano lace, so be sure to check the label. 

This intricate and gorgeous lacework is yet another special Italy souvenir to remind you of your time exploring Venice and its surroundings!

Gold Jewellery

If you’re looking to buy yourself a quality Italian souvenir, then gold jewellery is just the thing for you. Most gold sold within Italy is at least 18 karats, and artisans make a variety of beautiful accessories. 

While this is a more expensive souvenir, it’s likely to last for decades to come – you could even pass it down to your children. If you’re looking to buy this type of souvenir, consider heading to Florence and finding a gold artisan shop along Ponte Vecchio. Or you could treat yourself to some designer jewellery from a high-end Italian brand like Bulgari.   

Italian Stationery

Love the thought of writing on hand-painted paper using a chic, premium pen? Or perhaps a diary bound in leather? Well, you can find this and so many more elegant stationery items from Milan through to Venice . 

Florence and Venice are especially well known for these Italian souvenirs. These will make for a particularly special gift for yourself or family and friends. 

Rosary & Other Religious Items – Rome Souvenir

Do you practice Catholicism and are travelling to Italy to visit the Vatican ? Or perhaps you’re simply interested in learning about this branch of Christianity. Whatever the case may be, a rosary or crucifix will make for an exceptionally special reminder of your time here in Rome, Italy. 

Magnets are possibly one of the most collected souvenirs across the world. It’s easy to see why – they’re pretty, inexpensive, and lightweight! 

Whether you’re visiting Milan , Rome, Bologna, Siena, or just about any other place in Italy, you’ll stumble upon souvenir shops selling an interesting array of magnets to choose from!

Postcards are another easy Italy souvenir. Like magnets, they’re relatively inexpensive, have beautiful pictures, and are easy to transport. A great idea with these is to write down your memories from the destination you bought them at and post the card to yourself. This way, you’ll have an Italian souvenir waiting for you back home as well as a collection of your most treasured memories. 

Tips on Buying Italian Souvenirs 

Shopping for the perfect Italy souvenirs is so much fun. However, there are some important things to consider before going ahead with your purchase: 

• Be sure that the souvenir is authentic – check for its certification – especially when purchasing high-value items.
• Shop for items that come from the region you’re in. 
• Have an idea of what type of souvenirs you want to get before you go on your trip. 
• Check to see if any regulations or shipping costs will influence whether you can get your souvenirs back home. Some countries may impose a limit on the amount of alcohol, tobacco, or even the type of food products entering from a foreign country. Be sure to research this ahead of time.
• Always buy quality over quantity. 
• Make sure you leave enough space for all your Italy souvenirs in your luggage.

Welcome to Travel-Boo. My blog is where I share travel tips, suggestions, and stories focused on European travel adventures!

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8 Souvenirs You Should Get In Italy And 8 You Should Skip

A re you headed to Italy soon? If so, you probably want a souvenir to remember your trip -- that perfect memento to add to your collection or gift to someone special. But with a plethora of tourist shops and commercial goods, it's hard to know what to buy, especially if it's your first time in Italy. Does the souvenir genuinely represent the country? Or is it just a kitschy item that will end up in your giveaway pile in a matter of months?

Ultimately, you want to invest in something that will last, the type of item that naturally weaves its way into the fabric of your everyday life. And when it catches your eye or guests ask about it, you recall your trip fondly, reminiscing on the good times had. Alternatively, if it's a consumable good, it should be a beverage or food product you can't find back home ... something that will be thoroughly enjoyed upon your return. However, we'd avoid anything mass-produced and manufactured outside the country, ultimately driving profit away from local artisans and producers.

So, how do you spot authentic products from cheap knockoffs and souvenir scams? Our own travel experience has taught us how to avoid common tourist traps . We've also researched Italian destinations and the history of their local crafts. Through these methods, we've uncovered eight of the best souvenirs you should get in Italy and eight you should skip. 

Read more: These Countries Have The Best Weather In The World

Get: High-Quality Wine And Limoncello

Nothing says Italy like good wine or limoncello. However, to truly savor Italy's quintessential souvenirs, you should know how to pick a high-quality bottle. After all, you wouldn't want to head home with something you could find at your average American grocer. Of course, flavor is a crucial element, and the best way to sample a variety is through tastings and visiting producers.

If you can't crack open a bottle yourself, you'll need to decode the labels. According to Wine Enthusiast , certain phrases like DOCG (Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita) signal that the winemakers follow the highest guarantee of quality production. Just below this is DOC (Denominazione di Origine Controllata), which isn't as strict but still reliable. IGT stands for Indicazione Geografica Tipica, which allows winemakers to use more creative methods and unique grapes. And if you see a varietal followed by "Superiore," you can expect it to be a top-notch bottle.

When it comes to limoncello, there are some key things to avoid. It should smell like lemons but should never make your mouth pucker. Instead, limoncello should be a sweet, refreshing aperitif or digestif. To ensure it's locally made, check the label to see where the company sources its lemons. You're on the right track if it mentions anywhere along the Amalfi Coast. Limoncello is the star of this region, and if you're driving down these stunning coastal roads , you'll want to return home with a bottle or two.

Get: Olive Oil And Balsamic Vinegar

Italy is known for its olive oil and balsamic vinegar, and the two make the perfect pair. Whether drizzling these condiments over salad or soaking them up with a thick slice of bread, they add a rich flavor and complexity to any meal. You can find olive oil and balsamic vinegar all over the world. Still, some of the best varieties come from Italy, and traditional balsamic vinegar is only made in Reggio Emilia and Modena.

To ensure you get the good stuff, go for extra virgin olive oil and avoid pomace oils. EVOO is less processed, so it retains its fresh, fruity flavor and natural health benefits. True balsamic vinegar will be called "aceto balsamico tradizionale" and come with the "Denominazione di Origine Protetta" stamp, or DOP for short. This mark ensures the vinegar was made solely from high-quality grape must. Lastly, don't shy away from small-scale farms. The best olive oils and vinegar are often a family affair and sold in small batches made with love.

Get: Olive Wood Products

Olive oil isn't the only thing Italians make from olive trees. Craftspeople use olive wood to make a whole host of kitchenware like cutlery, rolling pins, salad bowls, and charcuterie or cutting boards. This wood has a golden brown base, darker contrasting streaks, and unique burling patterns. As it ages, it only takes on a richer appearance and color. Not only is it aesthetically beautiful, but its density and natural oils make it a long-lasting wood. To top it off, it doesn't pick up odors or bacteria easily, so it's an ideal choice for houseware.

No two pieces of wood are ever the same. So if you're looking for a unique yet functional souvenir, olive wood products fit the bill, and to make it last forever, avoid soaking them in water and never put them in the dishwasher. A quick handwash and the occasional light oiling should keep it looking fresh and beautiful.

Get: Perugia Tablecloths And Burano Lace

Are you looking to add an Italian flair to your home decor? Perugia textiles and Burano lace make the perfect souvenir. They both have a long history in Italy and represent the regions they originate from. Perugia was even known for its exquisite tablecloths and alter coverings in the 12th century, and the techniques used to make them have been passed down through generations. The detailed craftsmanship and designs make them beautiful as pillow covers, tablecloths, runners, or wall art. On the other hand, Burano lace has a more delicate appearance and is made using needle and thread to create intricate geometric or floral designs. It can be displayed similarly to Perugian textiles and adds a touch of elegance to any centerpiece.  

You'll find these textiles all over Italy in specialty shops and markets. However, the best place to find them is in their cities of origin. Giuditta Brozetti is a popular purveyor in Perugia, and to find authentic Burano lace, visit the Lace Museum on the island. Nowadays, much of the lace isn't entirely handwoven, but this museum should point you in the right direction, and you might even stumble across some local artisans weaving onsite.  

Get: Venetian Masks

When you think of Venetian souvenirs, masks inevitably come to mind. But these decorative costume pieces are far from cheesy keepsakes; they come with a rich history -- and a little mystery. Since the Middle Ages, they were used to add colorful flair to parties and were particularly popular during Carnival celebrations. And during this period, if you were to engage in illicit activities, using these masks to hide your identity wasn't uncommon. 

Not only do Venetian masks have a fascinating back story, but they're also beautiful souvenirs. Head to specialty shops focusing on handcrafted masks, such as  Ca 'Macana Atelier  in Venice's historic center. Opt for ceramic, paper mache, or leather masks over the mass-produced plastic ones. Hang a few on your wall for some mystical Italian charm, or save it for your next themed event. After all, what better way to celebrate your return from Italy than by throwing a masquerade party yourself? 

Get: Murano Glass

If you've ever seen a glassblower at work, you know just how skilled and special this art form is. If not, when visiting Venice, head to the Venetian island of Murano to observe this intense craft in person. However, don't expect to find modern technology at play. Murano glass pieces are made individually and entirely by hand using ancient techniques. Some artists even employ lampworking, meaning they handmake every piece over a flame rather than using molds.

Murano glass is a wonderful souvenir because each piece is a work of art. No two are identical since they're subject to the artisan's creativity. Plus, there are various options, from small trinkets to large vases. You can ensure authenticity by buying one directly from an artist's workshop, and if that's not an option, do your research and seek out reputable galleries like Vittorio Costantini in Venice and Seguso Viro in Murano.

Get: Leather Goods And Designer Clothing

Italians have a reputation for being fashionable for a reason, so if shopping is one of your favorite pastimes, this is the country in which to do it. Although not cheap, Italy is known to produce high-quality leather goods, and you have them right at your fingertips. Whether you're looking for a purse, jacket, shoes, or belt, you've got options, and finding the best quality is better done in person. 

Genuine leather should feel soft yet sturdy with even stitching, and you should check the label to ensure it's locally made. As Firenze shoemaker Mario Bemer explains in an interview with Tuscany Now and More , "'Made in Italy' and 'Made in Florence' both carry a tremendous amount of value. We are world-renowned for crafting the finest handmade products using the best materials available. I believe the centuries-old traditions in artisanship that we have are unmatched by any other place." 

But Italian shopping isn't limited just to leather goods. If you love Italian designers, the best place to purchase their items, of course, is in Italy. Local luxury brands are often less expensive here because they're not subject to import tax. And if you're not from the European Union, you might be eligible to receive a VAT tax refund upon exiting. Present your passport when purchasing the item, and save those receipts to claim money at the airport.   

Get: Artisanal Food Products

When it comes to Italian food, just like wine and limoncello, there's no sense in buying something you could find at your typical American supermarket. Many kinds of pasta and marinara sauces are plentiful in the States, and bringing the same things home may save you a few bucks but not feel very special. Instead, opt for artisanal foods that are harder to come by, especially regional-specific items. Take Cremona's famous torrone. This nutty nougat confectionary is popular during the holiday season, and there is even a Torrone Festival every November to celebrate this Italian sweet.   

If you do crave Italian classics, go for it. We're not saying to avoid staples like spaghetti, but we'd opt for local varieties, high-end brands, or lesser-known pasta like Sicily's casarecce or Venice's bigoli. And while everyone's heard of Nutella, this isn't Italy's only chocolate hazelnut paste. Try purchasing a jar of gianduia (the generic name for Nutella-like spreads) from an independent producer or a farmer's market. It's likely to have its own unique flavor, and you'd be supporting smaller-scale businesses. Plus, food items often make great souvenirs when exploring Italy on a budget .

Skip: Cured Meats

Italy is renowned for its cured meats, including mortadella, soppressata, and prosciutto. Our mouths are salivating just thinking of Italian charcuterie trays. However, we'd enjoy any antipasti while abroad because, unfortunately, cured meats aren't allowed past U.S. customs.

Some people aren't aware of this U.S. customs regulation, and we realize ignorance is bliss. On that note, we're sorry to be the bearers of bad news because you can't unread what we just shared. And while you may be tempted to take your chances, we wouldn't risk it. Those cute little beagles roam baggage claim for a reason, and if they smell a meaty essence hiding amongst your belongings, you'll be forced to part with that precious prosciutto.

When it comes to food-based souvenirs, skip the animal products. The silver lining is this gives you even more of an excuse to savor cured meats within Italy. Order all the speck, pancetta, and luscious lardo you can, and what you can't bring back in your bag, you can carry with you in culinary memories.

Skip: Cheap Keychains And Figurines

Although they seem like easy keepsakes, cheaply made keychains and figurines rarely last. They are often mass-produced or imported and don't represent the country you're visiting. However, we're not saying skip keychains altogether. We see the advantages of buying one as a souvenir, as they're small, lightweight, and have an obvious function. They also make an easy gift if you like returning with something for all your friends. Go for a higher-quality handmade keychain made by local artisans or one with local elements like Murano glass or leather. 

And instead of low-quality replicas of the Colosseum or the Leaning Tower of Pisa, opt for one-of-a-kind ceramic pieces or even art prints. Not only will you support the local economy, but these items will likely hold more meaning. After all, a beautiful painting of the Italian countryside can be admired for ages, but you'll probably move on quickly from a cheap paperweight.   

Skip: Anything Made Outside Italy

The whole point of buying a souvenir is to bring home something representing the country you visited. When you look at the item, you want to remember your time in Italy and reflect on its unique culture, so buying anything made outside Italy is the antithesis of this. Not only are these items usually generic, but they are often made cheaply and in bulk. They don't support the local economy or help to preserve Italy's heritage.

To avoid these imported products, check the barcodes and tags before buying clothing, artwork, or figurines -- and beware of cheaper versions of classic souvenirs. For example, the medieval town of Fabriano is known for its ancient papermaking traditions, and you can find beautifully crafted notebooks here. But oftentimes, tourist zones will be full of low-quality, imported versions to fool the ignorant traveler. Read the fine print and look for that "Made in Italy" stamp.        

Skip: Counterfeit Products

In Italy, it can be tempting to buy that fake Fendi or imitation Armani. These knockoffs are cheaper than the real thing, and some are copied so well that it can be hard to tell it's even fake. However, buying counterfeit products in Italy is not all Gucci. Not only is it illegal, but it can actually get you into serious financial trouble. 

According to The Local , Italian officials are cracking down on counterfeit goods. These new laws were enacted in 2018 and are called the "safe beaches" directives because centers of trade often occur along the coastline. These directives target both vendors and consumers of illegal products, and beachgoers who buy a pretend Prada can be fined up to 7,000 Euros. That's definitely not chump change, so if you hope to save a few bucks by buying counterfeit items, realize it might end up costing you much more.

Skip: Non-Precious Jewelry

Non-precious jewelry can be found anywhere, so it's not a unique souvenir. Additionally, non-precious jewelry is generally of low quality and won't last long. It might also be made of cheap materials that don't look or feel comfortable and may even leave skin irritated or discolored after use. In short, there really is logic behind buying it.

If you really want to remember Italy, it's better to splurge on a long-lasting item. Put in the effort to find something more unique and valuable; it doesn't necessarily have to be made from precious metals and gemstones. Artisanal pieces like a hand-carved cameo have a long history in Italy. Cameo-making, called "Glittica," has existed for thousands of years. It involves carving intricate designs into materials such as shells or gemstones. Torre del Greco is the Italian capital of cameos, but you'll find this artistic style on brooches, pendants, or rings across the country.

Skip: Most Items From Touristy Souvenir Shops

Souvenir shops in high-traffic zones often target tourists, who won't know the going rate for goods. You'll end up paying more for an item that really isn't worth it. Think of low-quality items not representative of the local culture or history, like generic pens, hats, T-shirts, ashtrays, or stuffed animals. Chances are, you can find these items anywhere in the world, and perhaps you can find similar yet more authentic versions from an independent supplier.

That being said, some things are easier to find at souvenir shops, like postcards, which make excellent keepsakes and are the perfect way to share your holiday with friends or family. And if you collect fridge magnets, mugs, or shot glasses from every destination you visit, by all means, go for it. Just be aware that you're paying a little extra for that "Italy" written across the front. 

Skip: Seashells

Are you visiting the Italian coast? Walking along those sandy beaches, you might have the urge to return home with a seaside souvenir, and what better item than a seashell? Unfortunately, it's forbidden to take seashells or sand from Italian beaches  -- and for good reason. 

According to Euronews , a Frenchman was arrested in 2023 for removing roughly 90 pounds of pebbles from a Sardinia beach. Mind you, this is a preposterous amount of pebbles, and anyone with that heavy of a suitcase is bound to raise some flags at the airport -- and leave a dent in the sand. However, even taking a modest amount of seashells can hurt the environment. 

If each tourist takes a handful of sand and shells, it can really add up. A 30-year study published in PLOS ONE  proved that tourists taking seashells from Mediterranean coastlines damaged the ecosystem over time, causing beach erosion and a decline in organisms that rely on shell availability. So take a picture or a mental snapshot of that shell, and leave the real thing on the beach.

Skip: Duty-Free Items

It has happened to the best of us. You had such a great vacation that you fully embraced the present. But amidst that holiday bliss, you forgot to buy those everlasting mementos ... and when you arrive at the airport, you scramble to find something remotely authentic. Unfortunately, duty-free shops capitalize on this, and although the prices often don't include taxes, they're not necessarily more affordable than regular retail stores. 

Also, these items may not accurately represent the local culture or craft that Italy is known for. And while you'll find the typical alcohol, cosmetics, and confectionaries in duty-free stores, you probably won't have as wide of a selection. Furthermore, you're less likely to encounter handmade or artisanal products since these aren't made in bulk. If you're desperate for that last-minute souvenir at the duty-free before boarding your flight home, stick to high-quality Italian wines, sweets, and luxury brands. 

Read the original article on Explore .

What To Pack For Italy: 30 Essentials Every Woman Needs For Italy

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Are you packing for Italy? You came to the right place because I can help you decide what to wear year-round!

You’re probably wondering what you should bring along. Packing for Italy can be tricky; you want to bring all the essentials without overpacking.

To help, we’ve compiled a list of luxury must-haves that every fashionable woman should consider bringing on her trip.

From the best walking shoes to the must-have items for a chic look, you’ll surely find everything you need for a stylish and successful trip.

Many women are unsure of what to pack for Italy, but this guide will prepare you for your vacation in any region. 

I’ve created this Italy packing list for Rome, Florence , and the Amalfi Coast to ensure a stress-free trip and that you don’t forget any essentials.

My packing list will guide you through what to pack for Italy and give you some tips on dressing so you won’t look out of place or like a complete tourist.   

This Italy packing list is not a size fits all, but it will help every traveler with the basics of what to pack for Italy, from clothing, shoes, personal items, and toiletries.

I have come up with a list of do’s and don’ts that are essential for every woman traveling to Italy, whether traveling solo, with your hubby, or on a girls’ trip.

The links in this post may be affiliate links.  That means that if you click them and make a purchase, this site makes a commission.  It will have no impact on the price you pay or the experience of your purchase.

I want you to have a stress-free travel experience while exploring Italy, and the goal of this article is to help you plan what to pack for Italy so you will not be unprepared for your vacation.

After you finish reading this article, you will know how to dress, what to pack, and most importantly, what to leave at home so you can have room in your luggage for souvenirs.

As a bonus, you will also learn some safety tips, including how to stay in Italy, along with anti-theft products that will keep you and your belongings safe.

The Ultimate Italy Packing List: What to Bring and How to Pack Light

When it comes to packing for a trip to Italy, it’s important to strike the right balance between bringing all the essentials and not overpacking.

After all, who wants to lug around heavy suitcases while trying to explore the beautiful streets of Rome or enjoy a leisurely gondola ride in Venice?

Start by choosing versatile clothing items that can be mixed and matched, focusing on neutral colors to create various outfits.

Consider the season and weather conditions and which part of Itay you will be visiting but generally, lightweight layers work well.

I always pack breathable fabrics like cotton and linen to stay comfortable i n the Mediterranean climate. Pack more comfortable walking shoes for exploring cobblestone streets and historical sites vs. heels and wedges that will never be worn.

Toiletries can be downsized by using travel-sized containers or purchasing essentials upon arrival.

Leave room in your suitcase for some beautiful Italian linens pants, dresses, and souvenirs because trust you will always find something you want to buy.

Pack a compact travel adapter and a universal charger to keep your devices powered while exploring Italy.

By packing light and efficiently, you’ll be able to fully enjoy the beauty of Italy without being weighed down by unnecessary luggage.

Here are some of my top suggestions for what to pack when vacationing in Italy.

What to Pack for Italy Basics

I have divided this Italy packing list into categories: travel documents/cash, luggage, inflight essentials, clothes, shoes, toiletries, makeup, bags, gadgets, and accessories.

You need to consider all these things when considering packing for your trip to Italy.

• The time of year you are visiting Italy and the weather
• How much walking will you do ?
• How much luggage do you want to take ?

“Must-Pack” Essentials Before You Depart for Italy

These items are the ones you absolutely must pack for your trip to Italy.

Passport—It is a good practice to have a passport with at least 6 months of validity. Make sure you make copies of your passport. I also suggest taking a picture of your passport, storing the image on your phone, and purchasing a sturdy passport holder .

Visa – Ensure you have read and understood the visa requirements for your nationality.   

Insurance—Do not forget to organize insurance for your trip. It’s one of those things that you probably won’t use but is essential if something goes wrong on your travels. For example, I got extremely sick in the Czech Republic, which was the one time I didn’t purchase insurance.

Lesson learned! From that point on, I used and recommended Allianz Travel Insurance because it is easy to organize and file a claim online. 

Allianz Travel Insurance offers both a basic package and a prime package

Alltrips basic.

The AllTrips Basic plan is perfect if you know for sure you are not going to cancel your trip but you want to be covered for emergency medical care and emergency medical transportation protection while you are traveling. 

Additional benefits of the primary insurance plan include trip delay protection, baggage coverage, rental car insurance, and a 24/7 assistance hotline for travel-related emergencies.

Rates start at around $130 for the basic plan.  

The AllTrips Premier plan 

If you are planning a trip to Italy with your entire family, I suggest the Premier Insurance plan. This plan covers everyone in your household just in case you need to cancel, someone needs emergency medical care, or your luggage is lost or stolen. 

Rates for the AllTrips Premier plan start around $450.00 which is cheaper than the deductible with my current insurance through my employer. 

I don’t want to sound like a broken record, but if you are going on excursions in Italy, I really suggest purchasing Allianz Travel Insurance because you just never know what might happen.

You must be prepared, so Click here for the AllTrips Premier plan!

Money — I recommend bringing two credit card s (one to use, and one to keep as a backup ), and your debit card.

Make sure you use credit cards with no foreign transaction fees.

For the life of GAWD do not exchange money in the airport.

I withdrew money from the ATM when we arrived, but you can purchase euros at your bank if it makes you feel more comfortable.

What to Pack for Italy: The Suitcase

Reyleo Hard luggage with USB Port : This carry-on suitcase, thanks to its size and material, is perfect for a trip to Italy.

It has some give for extra souvenirs, and most importantly, it has two USB ports for charging your iPhone or Macbook.

What to Pack for Italy: In-Flight Essentials

When preparing for a flight to Italy, your in-flight essentials should strike a balance between comfort and entertainment for your holiday to Italy.

Start with the basics: a neck pillow , eye mask , and earplugs to help you rest during the flight.

Don’t forget to pack a cozy, lightweight blanket for added comfort. Staying hydrated is crucial, so carry a reusable water bottle that you can fill up after security.

In your personal bag, have your passport, travel documents, and any necessary visas easily accessible.

Entertainment-wise, load up your tablet or e-reader with books, movies, or TV shows, and bring noise-canceling headphones to drown out any crying babies.

It’s wise to pack some snacks like granola bars, nuts, or dried fruits for those mid-flight cravings.

Lastly, include a toiletry pouch with essentials like a toothbrush , t oothpaste , facial wipes, and lip balm to freshen up before landing.

Packaging these in-flight essentials will prepare you for a comfortable and enjoyable flight to Italy.

• Bang & Olufsen Noise-Cancelling Over-Ear Headphones and Airplane Adapter
• Travel Pillow.
• Sleeping Mask.
• A pair of socks.
• Hand sanitizer

Italy Packing List: Clothing

I don’t know about y’all but comfort is of utmost importance to me on vacation but that doesn’t mean I can or should ignore the cultural norms of the destination. 

When deciding what to wear in Italy, it’s important to consider both style and practicality.

Whether you’re strolling through the charming streets of Florence or sipping a cappuccino in a café in Rome, you’ll want to ensure your outfits are appropriate and comfortable.

First and foremost, it’s important to remember that Italians take pride in their appearance and tend to dress more formally than in many other countries.

You won’t need a full formal dress but I highly suggest dressing slightly more polished than you would for a casual outing back home. Leave the baggy jogging pants at home.

Opt for well-fitted clothing and avoid anything too revealing or casual. A good rule of thumb is to avoid wearing shorts or flip-flops unless you’re at the beach.

The weather in Italy can vary depending on the region and the time of year, so it’s important to check the forecast before packing.

The summers are hot and the winters are mild. During the summer months, lightweight and breathable fabrics like cotton, linen, and silk are your best bet.

I suggest a cute sundress, a pair of tailored shorts , and a few breezy blouses should be at the top of your Italy packing must-haves.

In the cooler months, layering is key. A lightweight sweater or cardigan paired with a jacket or coat will keep you warm while still looking chic.

Don’t forget to bring a scarf, as it can be a practical accessory for warmth and a fashionable addition to your outfit.

I prefer neutral colors and classic patterns that can easily mix and match my wardrobe.

Lastly, when it comes to footwear, choose comfortable yet stylish options that will allow you to easily navigate the cobblestone streets of Italy.

A pair of ankle boots, loafers , or designer sneakers are versatile choices that can be dressed up or down. Avoid wearing heels unless necessary, as they can be highly uncomfortable walking on those cobblestones.

By dressing appropriately for Italian culture and weather, you’ll fit in with the locals and feel confident and comfortable while exploring Italy.

Both churches and museums require you to cover your shoulders and there will be signs outside many churches detailing which clothes are not permitted and which are not.

Clothing items that are usually not permitted are shorts, bare arms, low-cut dresses, short skirts for women and shorts, bare arms, and tank tops for men.

Men should remove their hats when they enter a church.

Please Make sure you address appropriately when visiting churches.  

Basic Clothing Packing List

• 3 Basic  Tank Tops
• 3 Basic T-Shirts
• 3 Blouses — Nice Dress up blouses for dinner
• 3  Dresses — You need sleeves to go into churches.
• 2 Pairs of Skinny Jeans
• 1  Lightweight Jacket — For spring, summer, or fall.
• 5 Pairs of Panties — You can wash out easily.
• 2  Yoga Pants  —  hiking or lounging around.
• 2 Swimsuit — The Amalfi Coast is amazing!
• 1 travel wrap —  Double as a wrap for churches and when it gets cool at night.
• 3 Sweaters — For early spring or late fall. (Gets pretty chilly in the spring) 

Italy Packing List: Shoes

Flats or Low-heeled, stylish, leather walking shoes and casual sneakers are great options. They can easily transition from exploring the Roman ruins to a lovely Italian restaurant.

Leave the boots at home. They are too heavy to pack, and the cobblestones in Italy are brutal on your feet.

Please don’t try to wear boots, high heels, or flip-flops while exploring the ruins.   

Italians produce some of the world’s most fashionable shoes, so leave room in your luggage to purchase shoes from a local leather shop. And don’t forget to negotiate! 

• Tory Burch Napa Leather Sandal : Great for dinner or casually strolling through Italian towns
• Women’s Gazelle sneakers : Comfortable sneakers are a must if you’re packing for a trip to Italy, between snorkeling. You’ll need a sturdy and comfortable pair for hiking or walking on cobblestones at Pompeii.
• Calvin Klein Ballet Flats : These casual yet stylish ballet flats are perfect for dinner or a night out on the town.
• Tory Burch Espadrilles : Pack your favorite pair of flip-flops for the beach.
• New Balance Sneaker: These breathable sneakers are great for day excursions and days when you’ll be walking a lot. 

Italy Packing List: Beach Essentials

If you’re traveling to Italy during summer, you might want to spend time in Amalfi,   Capri , or one of the other amazing towns off the coast lounging at a beach. 

Italy’s beaches are very crowded in the summer, so make sure you have all the beach essentials when packing for Italy .

If you plan on staying near Amalfi or Cinque Terre in July or August, you should know the beaches and hotels are packed, so please book your hotel well in advance because rooms fill up quickly.

Swim Cover-Up or Caftan

A swimsuit cover is perfect for the beach or a yacht tour to explore the grottos.  While the Italians are not shy about their bodies, I need mine covered up because I am not that one! 

Water Shoes 

The beaches on the coast can have a ton of rocks and coral so make sure you pack a pair of slip-on mesh beach shoes that will protect your feet if they are sensitive.  

These shoes come in a range of great colors – click here for more information .

Beach Towel 

I recommend packing a light beach towel that will not take up much space and dries fast. Check out this cute and chic beach towel .  

 Snorkel Set 

My husband loves to go snorkeling, and if you are on the coast, the Grottos are a must, so don’t forget you will need a good quality snorkel kit.

We have our own, and it packs perfectly in our luggage. Check out these bestseller snorkel sets from Amazon here.

Floating Device 

Who doesn’t want to be Instagram famous?  Bring along one of these super cute gold Pegasus Float. Check out this one from Amazon here.

Beach Bag 

You will need a beach bag to store your sunscreen, shades, beach towels, and other items. Check out the KEHO Canvas Beach Bag here.

Underwater Camera 

If you’re heading to the coast, take an underwater camera for those underwater shots, especially if you are going snorkeling or visiting the Grottos. Click here to check out the GoPro Hero 7 Camera.

Waterproof Phone Pouch  

What to Pack for Italy: Toiletries

• Mosquito-Repellent Bracelet : Yes, Italy has mosquitos so you will need a repellent – Avoid chemicals and the smell of DEET bug spray by just wearing a bracelet.
• Good Vibes Only Sun Kit : This convenient, travel-sized kit includes sunscreen, after-sun lotion, lip balm, and face sunscreen. If you travel to Italy during the summer months, please remember that the sun is brutal! 
• Hand Sanitizer : I am not a germaphobe but I prefer not to be sick while traveling so please use hand sanitizer as often as possible.

Makeup Essentials for Italy

• Moisturiser
• Blush/bronzer
• Makeup brushes
• Lipstick/gloss
• Face Cleanser
• Hairstyling products
• Hairbrush/comb
• Toothpaste/floss
• Feminine hygiene products
• Nail file/scissors

What to Pack for Italy: The Purse

• Tory Burch Canvas Crossbody Bag : This chic anti-theft bag is perfect for dressing up or down in Italy.

What to Pack for Italy: Gadgets

• Universal Adapter : If you are traveling out of the country, this item is very helpful to have to ensure that you can properly charge all of your devices, as it has multiple power adapter options all in one unit.
• GoPro Hero 7 : This camera is great to take on your travels, as it’s small, durable, and allows you to capture pictures and videos of your entire journey, both in the water and out.
• Anker Portable Phone Charger : Pack a portable charger to keep your phone charged after taking all those amazing Italy Instagramable photos.
• Selfie Stick with Tripod : For what to pack for Italy for your phone, you should make sure you have a selfie stick with a tripod to take all of those awesome selfies.  

What to Pack for Italy: Accessories

• Caftan : A caftan does double duty on a trip to Italy. It can be used as a blanket or shawl on a yacht excursion or at dinner and as a bathing suit cover-up at the beach or poolside.
• Chloe Sunglasses : This pair is both stylish, practical, and fashionable. 
• Fedora Hat : This is essential for sun protection. A crushable style means you don’t have to worry about it when stuffing it into your suitcase.
• Zippered Canvas Reusable Tote : I was happy to have a reusable tote on my Italy packing list for the beach to store my things.

What Not To Forget To Pack For Italy

• Pain Relief : you know what works best for you? Bring your favorite products from home for headaches, joint, and muscle pain
• Constipation Relief : Travelers’ constipation is natural, and you don’t want to be uncomfortable while on vacation.  
• Pancho : Any sort of thin layering piece is ideal for mild nights in Italy.
• Laundry detergent Sheets – Keep your clothes smelling fresh and you will be able to wear certain items more than once.

• Take some Non-Drowsy Dramamine and wear the sea band to avoid becoming seasick. 

What to leave at home

I am not one of those people who can pack for two weeks in a carry-on but after years of traveling, I have learned to leave a few things behind. 

Leave items you will probably not use, items that will be extra heavy or can be found easily at your destination.

• Valuables: Leave anything that’s flashy at home to avoid being a pickpocket target.
• Warm Clothing: This one’s a given, but you don’t need any warm clothing items for Italy unless you are traveling in the winter months.
• Full-sized shampoo and conditioner – too heavy, take up too much room, and will weigh your luggage down.
• Guidebooks—You don’t need to carry a guidebook around. Read it before downloading Rick Steves’s Best of Italy ebook.
• Hairdryer – most hotels provide hair dryers.
• Books– I am on the fence about books because I am old school and I love to hold books or magazines in my hand but some are extremely heavy so you can invest in a Kindle or download the books to your iPad or phone.

Packing For Italy – Weather 

Always, always check the weather forecast a week before your trip to see what is in store when planning what to wear in Italy.  

Nothing will ruin your trip quicker than not being prepared for rain in Florence or the blistering heat of Pompeii.  

After you have researched the weather, you can begin to create an I nstagram-worthy travel wardrobe that will fit easily in your suitcase.

I suggest using packing cubes to store outfits by the day of the week. 

Here is a guide to the average conditions – Check the forecast for the regions you visit.  

Summer [June/July/August] – Italy Weather

Summers in Italy tend to be warm to very hot and extremely high humidity. Expect temperatures between 77°F and 86°F.

August is typically Italy’s hottest month, coupled with high humidity in many parts of the country.

You might think hot weather is no big deal, but remember that even on hot days in the U.S. you usually sit inside an air-conditioned house instead of trying to ensure you have not missed important historical sites. 

Always check the current extended forecast for where you’re going just before you leave so you can find out in advance if it’s unseasonably cold and you will need a light jacket or a trench coat.

Fall/Autumn [September/October/November] – Italy Weather

Fall temperatures are ideal for sightseeing, with generally warm sunny days and cooler nights. Top temperatures range between 65°F and 75°F.

I’m defining fall as the months of September, October, and November in Italy, but that doesn’t mean that temperatures cool off and leaves will start turning on September 1.

September is often as warm as August, though the evenings tend to begin to cool off just a little. 

By October, it’s starting to feel like fall in Italy, and November is Italy’s rainiest month, so make sure to pack an umbrella. 

Like spring, fall is a transitional season, which means you’ve got to be prepared for some weather variations. So, make sure you check and double-check the weather the week before your departure.

Autumn temperatures will differ depending on what month you’re visiting and where in the country you’ll be (the northern parts are nearly always much more relaxed than the southern parts).

Winter [December/January/February] – Italy Weather

Italy has cool to cold days and nights in winter, with snow and sub-zero temperatures in the Alpine regions. There are also some rainy days. High temperatures range between 50°F and 55°F.

December isn’t always Italy’s coldest month, but it’s close. Snow is common in many parts of the country, particularly in the mountains, higher elevations, and even sometimes at sea level. 

Snow falling in Venice is one of the most beautiful winter scenes you’ll see in Italy and where it’s not snowing, it’s likely to be raining.

December/January/February is an odd mix of travelers because of the thin crowds and many visitors want to spend Christmas in Italy to see Vatican City specifically.   

Just remember that while the crowds are not as congested as in the summer months, many people worldwide have the same lifelong dream of spending Christmas in Italy.

You should plan and book your trip well in advance to get the best deal on a hotel room. 

Spring  –  [March/April/May] – Italy Weather

Spring in Italy is lovely. The temperatures at this time of year average between 60°F and 75°F. It is also the season when you are most likely to experience rain.

Early May tends to be more temperate, though remember that the weather gets warmer as you go south. 

In May, the Mediterranean was still too cold for me, but I saw plenty of people jumping right in. If you can stand cooler temperatures, make sure you pack a swimsuit just in case you decide to hit the beach.  

Remember that even if the days are warm, the nights might cool off enough that you’ll want a light layer for your walk back from your late-night dinner.

Rain isn’t unheard of, either, so check the forecast to see whether you’ll need to pack a small umbrella or rain jacket.

May is the start of the high season in Italy, and with the high season comes higher prices and bigger crowds.

Crowds in the main tourist cities still seem to get larger in June and July, so make sure you bring comfortable walking shoes.

Safety tips while traveling to Italy

Take extra precautions while traveling in Rome, as pickpocketers and scammers are at an all-time high. 

Professional thieves can pick tourists out in their sleep.

If you don’t want to look like a tourist, I suggest packing a sturdy leather purse that hangs on the front of your body rather than on the sides or back. 

I wasn’t a big fan of cross bodies initially, but they are starting to grow on me, so cross bodies and travel scarfs are an option to keep your money and credit cards safe. 

Keep important documents like passports, visas, money, and credit cards in a money belt, or try an anti-theft diversion kit. 

Keep thieves at bay with hairbrushes , deodorant , coke can , or other items that look like the real deal! 

Also, click here if you need my Travel packing List. You can find everything from drones , Snorkeling Gear, Hiking, Back packs, Cargo Pants , and more for your Next Trip.

Final thoughts and recommendations: italy packing list:.

Now that you have all the information you need on what to pack for your trip to Italy, it’s time for some final thoughts and recommendations.

First and foremost, remember to prioritize the essentials. These are the items that you need to have with you in Italy.

From comfortable walking shoes to versatile clothing, make sure you have these must-haves on your packing list.

Next, don’t forget to add a touch of luxury to your suitcase. Italy is the perfect place to embrace fashion and showcase your style.

So why not pack a designer handbag, a pair of stylish sunglasses , or some statement jewelry?

These luxury must-haves will elevate your outfits and make you feel like a fashionista while exploring the streets of Italy.

Regarding packing light, it’s all about being smart and strategic. Choose versatile pieces that can be mixed and matched, and consider layering your clothing for different weather conditions.

Remember to pack travel-sized toiletries and roll your clothes to maximize space. And if you find yourself running out of clean clothes, don’t hesitate to do laundry during your trip.

Lastly, ensure you have the essentials for exploring Italy’s cities and countryside.

A good map or navigation app, a comfortable day bag, sturdy walking shoes , a portable charger, and a reusable water bottle are all essential items that will enhance your travel experience.

So, whether you’re planning to visit the historical sites of Rome, explore the vineyards of Tuscany, or relax by the canals of Venice, make sure you have your Italy packing must-haves with you.

With the right items in your suitcase, you’ll be prepared for any adventure and ready to create unforgettable memories in the beautiful country of Italy.

Don’t forget to purchase your Allianz Travel Insurance as well! 

Ready to plan your trip? Grab my  FREE  Vacation Planner to help you plan your trip in the time it takes to watch your favorite TV show!

If you would like to donate to  Passports and Grub click here!  

Here are some of the most popular articles about travel in Italy

15 Dreamiest Towns on the Amalfi Coast

15 Awesome Must-Take Day Trips From Florence

The Best Boutique Hotels in Rome

Do you struggle with what to pack? I hope my Italy packing list has prepared you for your next vacation.  I would love to hear your thoughts so leave me a comment on   Facebook , Twitter, or Instagram.

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39 comments.

Wow, how beautiful is Italy! I’m not headed there anytime soon but these tips will cover me wherever I decide to travel!

its a comprehensive travel guide and it really doesnt matter the destination

Italy is one of the places I would love to visit.

if you ever get the chance it is a must visit

Italy is a dream vacation of mine! This info was very helpful. I hadn’t thought about the crossbody bag – will definitely start carrying those anytime I travel now.

I love a good crossbody. I just purchased a new one yesterday. I no longer carry big bulky bags

Italy is gorgeous! I plan to visit one day and will DEFINITELY keep your tips in mind. But girl…no books? How about I take just my favorite two?! Lol Thanks for the advice.

books weigh your luggage down girl!

Now this list is quite comprehensive. I need this for every place I travel to. I also pinned the list to my travel board.

you can use it for more than just italy.. Its really a comprehensive packing list for any destination.

I am pinning this list now!! Its comprehensive. I love it. I aspire to visit Italy one of these days but for now I’ll resort to this for my upcoming destinations❤

What a comprehensive list! I’ve not been to Italy yet but when I do this will come in handy

This is a great list. I like that you combine style and practicality in the list. Italians dress well, and it is nice to be able to bring some style with you, while also remaining comfortable. I love the photos of you in the grottos!

Super helpful list!Thank you so much for putting these together. I always struggle with what to pack based on culture and geography.Thank you for such brilliant ideas!

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