Last Updated on March 13, 2024 by MONICA
Shopping in Venice : Traditional Souvenirs and Other Things to Buy in Venice
Italy is a multi-faceted country with diverse geography, culture, history, food, and traditions. This diversity is what makes it unique and interesting. That’s why we can often find unique souvenirs in particular places that we visit.
When we travel to Venice, it’s often a memorable and once-in-a-lifetime experience. It’s natural that we want to make the most of our trip and share our experiences with our loved ones by gifting them small, but significant presents upon returning home.
Let’s explore where to find the best souvenirs in Venice. ANDIAMO!
Selecting what to buy in Venice becomes more than a simple shopping excursion – it’s an intimate dance with the city’s history.
Murano glass shines with colors, Burano lace whispers tales of ancient craft, and Venetian masks tell unique stories amidst sounds of laughter and distant serenade of gondoliers.
Imagine holding a piece of Venice’s soul in your hand – that’s what these souvenirs are all about. Each one is a whisper of the city’s rich legacy, a tangible reminder of the magic and mystery that make Venice so special. Take one home with you and keep the spirit of this enchanting place alive forever.
Our keepsakes celebrate the living artistry of Venice, from Grappa bottles to precious fabrics.
In these moments, we don’t just visit; we become part of the city’s story, connecting with artisans who embody the city’s essence.
Selecting Authentic Venetian Souvenirs: A Guide to Buying in Venice
When we consider the rich tapestry of Venetian culture, certain items stand out as quintessential souvenirs. They embody the artistry and tradition of Venice, and each piece tells a unique story of the city’s heritage.
Masks
The Venetian mask is a symbol of mystery and elegance that represents Venice’s storied past with masquerades and carnivals. These masks are often handmade, with intricate designs and lavish decorations. Authentic masks are created by skilled artisans using time-honored techniques, making them one of the best souvenirs to bring home from Venice. Be sure to purchase a mask that has been handcrafted locally to preserve the artistry and support the local economy.
Murano Glassware
Murano glass is acclaimed worldwide for its superb quality and vivid colors. Originating from the island of Murano, these glass pieces range from intricate jewelry to ornate chandeliers. Each piece is skillfully blown and shaped by hand, ensuring that no two pieces are exactly alike. Opting for these glass items ensures you obtain a touch of Venetian splendor that is both authentic and timeless.
Burano Lace
On the quaint island of Burano, we find another traditional craft: handmade lace. This delicate needlework is meticulously crafted by women who preserve the centuries-old lace-making tradition. Lace from Burano is a graceful and refined Venetian artcraft that reflects the dedication and precision of its makers. It can be found in various forms, from clothing to home decor, and is cherished for its elegance and intricate craftsmanship.
By choosing these items, we take a piece of Venice’s soul and artisanal history back home with us.
Stay in Venice: Discover Local Food and Beverages and the Best Souvenirs to Buy
When visiting Venice, it is essential to immerse oneself in the local gastronomy, including authentic Italian food and beverages. Amongst the myriad options, Spritz, Grappa, Bellini and Prosecco stand out as quintessential Venetian aperitivo or cicchetti experiences.
Cicchetti or The Venetian Aperitivo
Cicchetti, often associated with the Venetian Aperitivo, are a cherished culinary tradition in Venice, Italy, akin to Spanish tapas. These small plates or snacks are typically enjoyed in local bars, known as ‘bacari’, during the early evening as a prelude to dinner. Cicchetti can range from simple olives or nuts to more elaborate bites like crostini topped with various spreads, seafood, meatballs, or fried vegetables. They are usually accompanied by a glass of wine, such as a local Prosecco or a spritz, creating a social and relaxed atmosphere. This tradition not only offers a taste of Venetian cuisine but also encapsulates the city’s convivial spirit, where locals and tourists alike gather to enjoy good food, drink, and conversation.
The Spritz is a classic Italian aperitif, particularly popular in the Veneto region, and has gained international acclaim for its refreshing and light characteristics. Traditionally, a Spritz is made with Prosecco, a dash of a bitter liqueur like Campari or Aperol, and a splash of soda water. The key difference between Campari and Aperol lies in their flavor profiles and alcohol content: Campari is more bitter and has a higher alcohol percentage, while Aperol is sweeter, lighter, and has a vibrant orange hue. Both are integral in creating different variations of the Spritz, catering to diverse palates.
| Ingredient | Proportion |
|---|---|
| Prosecco | 3 parts |
| Aperol or Campari | 2 parts |
| Soda Water | 1 part |
Buying a bottle of Campari or Aperol as a souvenir or a gift encapsulates not just a piece of Italian drinking culture but also offers an opportunity to recreate this iconic aperitif at home. These bottles, with their distinctive labels and colors, serve as stylish and functional mementos, allowing one to share the taste and tradition of the Italian aperitivo experience with friends and family.
Prosecco
Prosecco, a sparkling wine from the Veneto region of Italy, is a popular drink in Venice, known for its light, bubbly, and versatile nature, and has achieved international recognition.
Made primarily from the Glera grape, Prosecco is characterized by its fruity and floral bouquet, often with notes of green apple, pear, melon, and sometimes hints of almond and honey. Unlike Champagne, Prosecco is produced using the Charmat method, where the secondary fermentation occurs in large steel tanks, lending to its distinctive freshness and flavor profile.
This method also makes Prosecco more affordable compared to its French counterpart. It is available in various levels of sweetness, from the dry ‘Brut’ to the sweeter ‘Demi-Sec’. Prosecco’s popularity not only lies in its pleasant taste and affordability but also in its versatility as a stand-alone drink or as a key ingredient in cocktails like the Bellini or Aperol Spritz. Whether enjoyed in a casual setting or a celebratory event, Prosecco adds a touch of Italian elegance and convivialit
Bellini
The Bellini is a classic Italian cocktail that epitomizes elegance and simplicity, originating from Venice in the 1940s. Created by Giuseppe Cipriani, the founder of the legendary Harry’s Bar in Venice, the Bellini has since become a staple in cocktail lounges around the world.
This refreshing drink is a blend of two key ingredients: Prosecco, the beloved Italian sparkling wine, and white peach purée. The original recipe calls for a ratio of about two parts Prosecco to one part fresh peach purée, resulting in a light, effervescent, and slightly sweet cocktail. The Bellini’s charm lies in its delicate pink hue, attributed to the ripe peaches, and its smooth texture.
The cocktail’s popularity is not only due to its delightful taste but also its embodiment of Italian sophistication. Ideal for brunches, celebrations, or as a summery aperitif, the Bellini continues to be a symbol of refined yet effortless Italian style in the world of cocktails.
| Ingredient | Proportion |
|---|---|
| Prosecco | 2 parts |
| White Peach Purée | 1 part |
Grappa
Grappa, a distinctive Italian spirit, has deep roots in the Veneto region and is revered as a symbol of Italian distilling tradition.
This potent brandy is made by distilling the pomace – the skins, pulp, seeds, and stems left over from winemaking after the grapes have been pressed. Grappa from Veneto is particularly renowned for its quality and variety, reflecting the region’s rich winemaking heritage.
The character of Veneto Grappa varies greatly depending on the grape varietal used, ranging from smooth and aromatic to robust and full-bodied. The distillation process, often carried out in small artisanal batches, is key to its nuanced flavors and aromas.
Traditionally consumed as a digestif after meals, Grappa is also enjoyed in a variety of other ways, including as an accompaniment to coffee or even as a key ingredient in cocktails. Embodying both rustic charm and refined complexity, Grappa from Veneto is not just a drink but a celebration of regional culture and craftsmanship.
| Grappa | Region | Characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| Nardini Riserva | Bassano del Grappa | Aged, smooth, with a balanced aroma |
| Poli Cleopatra Amarone Oro | Veneto | Elegant, aromatic, made from Amarone grape |
| Berta TreSoliTre | Veneto | Complex, aged in oak barrels |
| Nonino Il Prosecco | Veneto | Light, fresh, from Prosecco grapes |
| Jacopo Poli Sarpa | Veneto | Silky, with herbal notes, from Merlot and Cabernet grapes |
Art and Paper Treasures: Crafting Your Venice Souvenir Collection
In our journey through Venetian artistry, we discover exceptional craftsmanship in paper goods and leather. Venice, rich with artistic heritage, offers marbled paper known for its intricate patterns and high-quality leather goods that are both practical and stylish.
Venetian Marbled Paper
Venetian marbled paper, with its swirling colors and mesmerizing designs, is a testament to the city’s enduring artistic traditions. Each sheet is a unique piece of art, featuring patterns created through a meticulous process where paint floats on a liquid and is then carefully transferred to absorbent paper. Ideal for bookbinding, stationery, or as artwork itself, this paper goods symbolize the Venetian flair for combining functionality with be
- Process: Paint floating on liquid; transferring to paper
- Uses: Bookbinding, stationery, decorative art
- Specialty: Unique patterns; no two sheets alike
Leather Goods
While Venice offers a selection of leather goods, it’s important to note that the city is not predominantly known for its leather craftsmanship – a specialty more closely associated with Florence.
If you’re unable to visit Florence but are keen on exploring a range of quality leather goods, consider visiting nearby Verona or the markets around Lake Garda.
These locations offer a decent variety of leather products, from handbags to wallets, showcasing both traditional and contemporary designs.
However, if your travels are confined to Venice, you might find the options more limited, primarily to designer brands.
Venice’s offerings in leather goods, though less varied, still include some high-quality Italian leather items.
These may include durable, elegantly designed handbags, compact wallets crafted for longevity, and other accessories like belts and journals, all reflecting traditional craftsmanship and attention to detail.
While Venice may not be a central hub for leather goods, the available selection still allows you to incorporate a touch of Italian elegance into your life, albeit with fewer choices outside the realm of designer labels.
Souvenirs to Buy: Discovering Unique Textiles and Fashion Finds
Venice offers an exquisite selection of fashion and textiles, anchored deeply in its rich artisan traditions. We find that both the intricate craftsmanship of Burano lace and the luxurious diversity of Venetian fabrics not only reflect the city’s heritage but also provide elegant choices for discerning shoppers.
Fabrics & Textiles
Venice is renowned for its rich textile heritage, offering a unique shopping experience with a focus on luxurious and historically significant fabrics. The city’s textile tradition is deeply intertwined with its history, showcasing intricate designs and superior craftsmanship. Venetian textiles are particularly famed for their opulent velvet and delicate lace, both of which reflect the city’s artistic heritage and centuries-old skills.
- Velvet: Renowned for its sumptuous and plush texture, Venetian velvet is often used in high-end fashion and luxurious home decor.
- Lace: Burano lace, with its intricate patterns, is a testament to the meticulous artistry of Venetian artisans.
- Silk: Venetian silk fabrics, known for their quality and elegance, are often used in both fashion and interior design.
- Brocade: This richly decorative, woven fabric, often with gold or silver threads, epitomizes the opulence of Venetian textiles.
- Damask: Known for its reversible patterns, Venetian damask is a staple in elegant home furnishings.
In Venice, shoppers can find a variety of items made from these exquisite textiles, including scarves, clothing, tablecloths, curtains, and upholstery. Each piece represents a blend of timeless tradition and Venetian artistry, making them not just purchases but also keepsakes of the city’s cultural legacy.
Burano Lace
Burano lace, revered for its delicate and exquisite patterns, is a testament to a centuries-old craft that continues to thrive on the eponymous island. Known for its quality and intricacy, the lace is often considered a luxury item. We recommend visiting the local shops on Burano where craftsmen still handcraft these pieces, ensuring that each purchase is an authentic Made in Italy treasure.
Burano lace, originating from the quaint, colorful island of Burano in the Venice lagoon, is a symbol of intricate craftsmanship and enduring Venetian tradition. This delicate lacework dates back to the 16th century and is renowned for its precision and artistry.
Historically, Burano women spent countless hours meticulously crafting these exquisite patterns by hand, a tradition passed down through generations. The lace is characterized by its complex stitching and elaborate designs, often inspired by natural and floral motifs.
Examples of items made with Burano lace include:
- Table Linens: Elegant tablecloths and placemats that add a touch of sophistication to any dining setting.
- Clothing: Delicate blouses and dresses, often used for special occasions, showcasing the lace’s detailed work.
- Accessories: Scarves, shawls, and handkerchiefs that blend traditional craftsmanship with contemporary fashion.
- Home Decor: Decorative items such as curtains and pillow covers, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of interiors.
- Wedding Gowns: Bespoke wedding dresses that feature intricate lace patterns for a classic and romantic look.
Each Burano lace item is not just a product but a piece of history and art, reflecting the dedication and skill of the lace-makers and preserving a precious aspect of Venetian culture.
Best Venice Souvenirs for Kids : Traditional Crafts and Toys
In Venice, the artistry of local craftsmen shines through in the toys they create. We witness a delightful array of goods that not only serve as mementos but also capture the essence of Venetian craftsmanship.
Masks for Children
In Venice, masks for children featuring animal characteristics are a delightful and imaginative aspect of the city’s famed mask-making tradition.
These masks, often vibrant and whimsical, draw inspiration from various animals, transforming children into playful characters like lions, birds, or mythical creatures.
The technique of creating these masks is a blend of artistry and tradition, usually involving the sculpting of a base form from paper-mâché. This base is crafted by layering strips of paper soaked in a mixture of water and glue over a clay mold.
Once dried, it’s removed from the mold and meticulously sanded to create a smooth surface.
The mask is then brought to life with vivid paints, fabrics, and decorative elements, such as feathers, sequins, or faux fur, to mimic the chosen animal’s features.
This process not only showcases the artistic skill of Venetian mask-makers but also keeps alive a centuries-old cultural heritage. The resulting masks are not just playful accessories for children but also a piece of Venetian art, capturing the city’s love for festivity and its deep-rooted tradition in mask-making.
Wooden Toys
Venice is home to artisan workshops where wooden toys are carved and painted by hand, embodying centuries-old traditions. These toys often come in the form of puzzles, animals, and even miniature representations of historic Venetian architecture. They make for charming venetian souvenirs and represent a piece of Italian culture that can be shared and cherished.
- Craftsmanship: Artisan, meticulously handcrafted
- Popular Choices: Puzzles and animal figurines
- Material: High-quality wood
Handmade Boats
Handmade boats are another facet of Venetian souvenirs that embody the spirit of Italy’s renowned city on water. These miniature works of art are crafted by Italian artisans with an attention to detail that reflects the iconic gondolas and other vessels synonymous with Venice. A handmade Venetian boat is not just a toy; it’s a celebration of the city’s maritime heritage.
- Representation: Gondolas, fishing boats, vaporettos
- Artistry: Each boat is unique, showcasing the artisan’s skill
- Material: Primarily wood, often with intricate fabric sails and metal detailing
Through these traditional crafts and toys, we connect with the culture of Venice, appreciating the skill and passion of its artisans.
Unforgettable Souvenirs from Venice : Unique Shopping in Venice
In Venice, accessories are not merely decorative items; they are embodiments of history and tradition. We find that each piece carries with it a story, often connected to iconic symbols of the city such as the gondola and the Rialto Bridge.
Gondolier’s Hats
The gondolier’s hat is a distinctive symbol of Venice, often synonymous with the renowned gondola ride through the city’s canals. These hats are not just for show; they are a part of the gondolier’s official uniform. Traditionally striped with a ribbon that can vary in color to indicate different gondola services.
- Where to find: Souvenir shops near San Marco Square or along the Grand Canal.
- Variety: From simple styles for tourists to the more authentic, high-quality versions.
- Price Range: Expect to pay more for hats that closely resemble those worn by actual gondoliers.
Doorknockers
Venetian doorknockers are more than utilitarian; they are a testament to the city’s artistic heritage. These pieces can range from simple designs to ornate works of art, with influences from the city’s maritime history often reflected in their shapes and motifs.
- Designs to look for: Ocean motifs, Venetian lions, or intricate patterns reminiscent of the city’s architecture.
- Material: Commonly found in brass or bronze, adding to their traditional appeal.
- Find them at: Artisan stores tucked away in the corners of Venice, not far from the bustling Rialto Bridge.
- Tip for Purchase: Ensure authenticity by looking for locally made items, often heavier and detailed.
Things to Buy in Venice: Crafting Memories with Experience-Based Souvenirs
When we explore Venice, we’re not just looking at items to buy; we’re collecting pieces of an experience. Each souvenir holds a story, a memory of strolling through the winding calle and the feeling of Venice’s unique atmosphere. Let’s explore one of the most distinctive and symbolic reminders of Venetian experiences.
Gondola Oarlocks
Known in Italian as “fórcola”, gondola oarlocks are crafted specifically for the traditional rowing and maneuvering of Venice’s iconic boats. They are not only quintessential items that represent one of the best souvenirs to buy in Venice, but they also encapsulate the essence of being around the city—floating through its canals and engaging with its maritime heritage. Each oarlock is a work of art, often reflecting the skill of the gondolier and the rich nautical history of Venice.
Practical Information for Your Souvenir Shopping in Venice
When we talk about purchasing souvenirs in Venice, we must consider where to find the best shops that offer authentic and high-quality items. Venice is renowned for its traditional artisan shops, and knowing where to look will enhance your shopping experience.
Where to Shop
- In the Heart of Venice: The most iconic area for shopping in Venice is around the Rialto Bridge and St. Mark’s Square and Ferrovia district.Here you will find a range of souvenir shops offering everything from handcrafted masks to Murano glass.
- Murano and Burano: For authentic glassware, Murano is the place to go, while Burano is famous for its lace. Shops in Burano offer exquisite handmade items that are perfect for gifts or keepsakes.
- Venetian Backstreets: To uncover hidden gems, venture into the less-trafficked alleys and streets. You might find the best place to buy that special something, away from the crowds.
- Dorsoduro District: Known for its artisan shops and galleries, this area offers unique pieces that reflect the rich Venetian culture.
- Local Markets: For a more laid-back shopping experience, visit local markets such as Mercati di Rialto where you can browse fresh produce alongside artisan crafts.
Remember, the city’s maze of canals and narrow passageways is part of its charm. Take your time as you wander through the streets. Not only will you enjoy souvenir shopping in Venice, but you’ll also be immersing yourself in the city’s storied history and vibrant present.