Hi, I’m Gianluca.
I studied cultural anthropology, and I’ve always been fascinated by the different ways people live, move, and experience a place.
Rome is not only my city – it’s the environment I love observing, understanding, and sharing through these small stories.
Together with my wife Connie, we host travellers in our small hotel near the Vatican, where we enjoy meeting people from all over the world and exchanging perspectives – just as I do here in the blog.
If you ever feel like saying hello while exploring Rome, you’ll find us on our terrace as well, where every morning we serve breakfast with a view.
Gianluca
Via dei Condotti is one of Rome’s most famous streets, steeped in history and culture. Its name dates back to the 16th century, referring to the “condotte”, or channels, that once brought water to the Campo Marzio area from the Aqua Virgo aqueduct. Historically, this street has been a hub for art, culture, and intellectuals, most notably the Antico Caffè Greco, established in 1760. This historic café has hosted some of the greatest minds of the 18th and 19th centuries, including Goethe, Stendhal, Byron, and Keats, who often gathered here to discuss art, philosophy, and literature.
Today, Via dei Condotti is synonymous with luxury and is home to some of the world’s most prestigious fashion brands, including Gucci, Prada, Louis Vuitton, and Dior. The street is renowned as one of the most expensive in the world, attracting fashion lovers and visitors seeking the finest shopping experience. But beyond the high-end boutiques, Via dei Condotti offers a glimpse into Rome’s rich history, where past and present seamlessly blend.
Shopping in Rome: A Mix of Tradition and Luxury
While Via dei Condotti is the epicenter of luxury shopping, Rome offers much more for shoppers. The Tridente area, which includes Via del Corso, Via del Babuino, and Via di Ripetta, is known for its diversity of shopping options. Here, you’ll find everything from global brands to smaller, family-run stores that have been passed down through generations.
Rome’s shopping scene is unique because it reflects the city’s deep-rooted traditions. The city is famous not only for luxury brands but also for its artisan shops and boutiques that specialize in handmade goods, such as leather bags, shoes, jewelry, and ceramics. These small, often family-owned businesses stand side by side with major international labels, creating a shopping experience that is both exclusive and authentic.
In addition to the high-end fashion of Via dei Condotti, Rome’s Via del Corso offers a more accessible shopping experience, with popular fashion retailers and local boutiques, making it a favorite for both locals and visitors alike. Meanwhile, the streets of Monti and Trastevere are perfect for those looking for unique, artisanal goods, where you can find handcrafted leather goods, vintage clothing, and one-of-a-kind souvenirs.
Exploring the Tridente: A Shopper’s Paradise
The Tridente area, so named because of the three main streets—Via del Corso, Via del Babuino, and Via di Ripetta—radiates from Piazza del Popolo and is the beating heart of Rome’s shopping district. Whether you’re on the hunt for high fashion, artisanal products, or simply a leisurely stroll through history, this area is the perfect place to start.
From Piazza di Spagna at the base of the Spanish Steps, luxury brands line Via dei Condotti, while Via del Babuino offers a quieter, more artistic atmosphere, with antique shops, art galleries, and exclusive boutiques. Via di Ripetta, on the other hand, leads you toward the Tiber River, where you can find a mix of historic charm and modern shopping experiences.
Conclusion
Whether you’re seeking the finest in luxury fashion or the charm of handcrafted goods, Rome’s shopping scene has it all. From the elegance of Via dei Condotti to the vibrant mix of shops in the Tridente area, Rome remains a shopper’s paradise. As you explore, take time to enjoy the rich history that surrounds you—this is a city where every street tells a story.
When staying at Quodlibet B&B, you’re just a short walk or metro ride away from the best shopping destinations in the city, making it the perfect base for your Roman adventure
