Good Souvenirs from Italy: Take Italy Home With You!

Italy makes for a lovely trip. The good food, the lovely towns, the ancient ruins and the marvellous history, the coastal areas, all are difficult to leave. But you can take a bit of Italy home by shopping for the best souvenirs from Italy. If you are wondering what to buy in Italy, you have come to the right place. This post covers it all! Here are 28 product ideas / things to buy in Italy. Food items that make for lovely gifts, unique cultural items that are famous souvenirs of Italy. And many other personal items to buy in Italy.

Food Souvenirs from Italy

Italy is heaven for food shopping. You just can’t have your fill of local Italian food and wine in this country. So it is imperative to get some of these food products from Italy. On my Italy trip, I bought some cheese, wine, truffle oil and olive oil to take back home.

Cheese

A fantastic idea for a souvenir from Italy is undoubtedly cheese! As it is produced in almost every region of the country, there is an abundance of traditional and regional delicacies in Italy. A famous example is Parmesan cheese from the Parma region near Verona, or Pecorino from Tuscany!

You can take a day trip from Florence to Tuscany to enjoy the countryside and buy the local produce. But the best thing is that you can get good cheese anywhere in Italy. Whether supermarkets, delicatessens or cheese dairies – every destination in Italy offers a wide selection of regional cheeses.

It’s also great that Italian cheese is available in different price ranges, making it affordable for everyone. You can find a piece of very good cheese for as little as 5 to 10 euros. Of course, for those looking for a more luxurious option, the possibilities are practically endless. It is important to know that in Italy, cheese is usually priced per 100 grams.

For cheese lovers, foodies and gourmets alike, cheese from Italy is the ultimate souvenir. It embodies the country’s rich culinary cuisine and is a personal gift, especially for gourmets.

Recommended by Martina from PlacesofJuma

Chocolates

There is no shortage of souvenirs to bring home when visiting Italy. Regional food specialties, artwork, crafts, pottery and ceramics, olive oil, and of course world class wines. One souvenir that is a must especially for anyone with a sweet tooth is chocolate. And not just any chocolate. The chocolates from Turin, Italy’s Chocolate City, are world class followed by the growing popularity of excellent chocolates from the city of Perugia in the Umbria Region.

One of the best ways to experience, and enjoy, chocolate products in Turin is to take a chocolate tour. Some of the more famous chocolatiers like Caffarel, Pasticceria Marchesi, and Guido Gobino all make mouthwatering versions of chocolate and hazelnut flavored chocolates. The famous Gianduiotto chocolates that are wrapped to look like gold ingots were first introduced in 1865 by Caffarel. 

But the chocolate doesn’t end there. Did you know that Bicerin, a rich hot chocolatey drink made of espresso, chocolate, and fresh whipped cream along with the Nutella brand were both created in Turin? So many chocolate options, from delicate small candies, the famous chocolate Princess slipper, specialty hot chocolate cups, chocolate cooking and storage accessories too.

Chocolate lovers should not miss the CioccolaTó chocolate festival held every November in the Piazza San Carlo in Turin.

Recommended by Lori of Travlinmad

Balsamic vinegar

One of the best souvenirs to buy from Italy, if you are into food, is definitely balsamic vinegar from Modena. Balsamic vinegar has been produced in Modena for centuries and it’s an ingredient full of history. 

In the past, traditionally, a big batch of vinegar was started to be produced when a baby was born. It would be left to age for years, and when that baby was old enough to get married, the vinegar was part of the dowry. Nowadays, vinegar follows a strict production method, and the result is a sweetish thick vinegar that goes great with anything, from salad to ice cream (yes, that’s how they eat it in Modena!). 

The best places to buy balsamic vinegar are in Modena itself, and in the nearby Reggio Emilia. You can buy authentic balsamic vinegar, which can officially only be produced around this area. In any shop, you will be able to find balsamic vinegar that has aged for different amounts of years, each with its own unique taste. 

But to understand the history and cultural significance behind the vinegar you are buying, the best is to visit a vinegar factory, which I think is one of the most interesting things to do in Modena. In a balsamic vinegar factory, you will learn all about the production process, enjoy a tasting, and be able to buy your preferred one. 

Recommended by Sharon of The Roads Beyond

Italian herbs & condiments

Few cuisines in the world are so simple, yet so flavourful, as traditional Italian cuisine. Varying greatly from one region to another, Italian dishes tantalize your taste buds with every bite. And if you wonder what’s their secret… you are about to find it: the herbs and condiments! Along with the local and fresh produce, they bump the flavor of every single dish. 

Visit any market in Italy and you can find bunches of fresh basil, oregano, rosemary, and more. And that’s exactly where you should buy your own to bring back home.

Whether you want to experiment in your own kitchen or have taken a cooking class in Italy and want to dive deeper into the cuisine, there’s nothing better than getting herbs and/or condiments as souvenirs. My favorite choices? Oregano, pepperoncini, and a mix of herbs for Penne all’Arrabbiata (spicy tomato pasta). 

One of the reasons I love Italy so much is its delicious cuisine. Every meal is a chance to get immersed with all your senses in the culture and traditions. 

Recommended by Cris of Looknwalk 

Grappa

For one of the best souvenirs from Italy, consider buying a local Grappa for taking home. Grappa is an alcoholic beverage usually with a 35 to 60 percent alcohol percentage. The drink itself is made from the pomace, which is the leftover seeds, stems and pulp of the grapes when they were pressed for wine. 

The colour of the Grappa is usually clear, and has a very unique taste. With many to choose from, there is a range from young, aromatic and cask-conditioned. You can experience the differences of Grappa with a local Grappa tasting. We suggest this if you’re visiting Italy and find a location for this!

The most common time to try and drink a glass of Grappa is just after dinner, with a small glass to sip on to help with digestion. During winter this is more popular based on getting the ‘warm’ feeling in your throat after drinking it. 

You can find Grappa all over Italy, from local restaurants, souvenir shops and in many supermarkets – ranging from as little as 15 EUR. We personally have tried a few in Northern Italy when visiting the Dolomites and Ticino, Switzerland – but a favourite so far was one we tried in Sirmione, Lake Garda! 

Recommended by Zoe of Together In Switzerland.

Limoncello

Limoncello is a vibrant, lemon-infused liqueur mainly produced in the South of Italy with the Amalfi Coast, Sorrento and Capri as the popular destinations. This wonderful drink reveals the ethos of Italy’s south and its sunny Mediterranean character, being deeply entrenched in the histories of those regions. 

An important part of your Italy in summer trip is choosing souvenirs that reflect the Italian culture and heritage. Among all the choices, Limoncello is the characteristic Italian souvenir that has a deep cultural significance.

Handmade from Sorrento or Amalfi lemons, Limoncello has lemon zest in particular that is steeped in alcohol until the oil is extracted and combined with a simple syrup. Limoncello is special because of its unique, zesty flavour and its role in Italian dining culture. It is usually consumed chilled as an after-dinner drink and symbolises the importance of savouring moments with friends and family.

For an authentic Limoncello experience, make sure to add Amalfi Coast or Sorrento to your Italian trip. Here local shops like Limonoro or Il Convento in Sorrento offer handcrafted Limoncello made using traditional methods. These places sell high-quality Limoncello and provide insight into its artisanal production process, making the purchase even more special.

Buying Limoncello from these regions means you will be bringing home a part of the Italian culinary tradition. A reminder of the sunny landscapes and the vivacity that Italy is known for.

Recommended by Lavina of Continent Hop 

Olive Oil from Tuscany

If you’re visiting Tuscany, you’ll often be served crusty bread with a bottle of local olive oil before your meal of traditional Tuscan dishes. After one bite, you’ll probably notice that it’s way better than the olive oil you get at home. The Puglia region of Italy actually produces the largest quantity of Italian olive oil, but Tuscan extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) is know as the best. So, why not bring some home with you? 

You can purchase some pretty fabulous oils at specialty food shops like the Alimentari Uffizi in Florence. However, if you have the time, it’s much more fun to head into the gorgeous Tuscan hills to taste and purchase your EVOO of choice.

Some wineries, like Casa Emma, make their own olive oil, and they offer combo wine and olive oil tastings. Also, many olive farms, like Gonnelli 1585 and Frantoio Pruneti offer culinary experiences showcasing their delicious products.

Some producers will ship their oils, but it’s not necessary. You won’t be able to put it in your carry-on, but there’s no need to worry about the bottle. Just pack it well in your dirty clothes—it works every time.

Recommended by Denise of Chef Denise 

Pistachio Liqueur

One of the best souvenirs from Italy is a bottle of sweet pistachio liqueur. Known in Italian as “crema di pistacchio“, this tasty treat has a rich, creamy texture, and an intense aroma of pistachios. It truly captures the essence of Italy’s rich culinary traditions.

What makes pistachio liqueur special is its significance to Italian history and tradition, particularly in the southern region of Puglia. Pistachios have been growing in these fertile lands for centuries, and are often used in local dishes, desserts, and pastries.

The creation of pistachio liqueur is a natural extension of this tradition that captures the flavors and aromas of the pistachio. It is said that the recipe for pistachio liqueur was created by monks in the 12th century! Apulians take pride in using traditional methods and locally sourced pistachios to craft this high-quality liqueur that highlights the distinct flavors of the region.

You can buy pistachio liqueur in Alberobello, one of the most adorable towns to visit in Puglia. Down the street from the iconic Trullo Sovrano is Trullo Liquori di Orazio Rinaldi, a traditional shop that sells homemade pistachio liqueur in uniquely shaped bottles. Or, purchase it from Paco Wines in the historic center of town. Pistachio liqueur is a fantastic way to celebrate the local culture.

Recommended by Robyn Dirk at Two Empty Passports

Raw Pasta

Pizza, gnocchi, ravioli, pasta… yup, name it all, you cannot say you visited Italy without having tasted its food! 

Speaking of food, when it comes to unforgettable souvenirs of Italy, bringing home authentic Italian pasta is like carrying a piece of Italy’s culinary soul. Pasta isn’t merely food, it embodies a cultural heritage deeply woven into the fabric of Italian life.

What’s special about Italian pasta is its simplicity and the artisanal methods passed down through generations. Italians often use wheat that imbues it with a unique texture and flavor profile found nowhere else. 

For a true taste of Italy, visit the renowned Pastificio Faella in Gragnano. This is a town acclaimed for its pasta, due to the perfect climate for drying pasta slowly and naturally. Here, pasta is not just crafted—it’s celebrated. By the way, if you can’t make it to this specific Pastificio, rest assured that you’ll find pasta in every nook and cranny of Italy. And if you can’t find it, this amazing souvenir from Italy will surely find you!

Recommended by Giorgy of Sabiduri

Truffles

Praised as a gourmet delicacy, truffles are a funghi with a distinct flavor and aroma. They are sought after by chefs and foodies worldwide. Truffles have ongoing roots in Italian culture, with Ancient Romans believing them to have aphrodisiac properties. This cemented their place in history as a luxury product! Italy produces some of the highest-quality truffles, making them a wonderful souvenir to take home. 

Farmers often plant rows of oak trees to grow black truffles. But can only find white truffles in the wild, making them even rarer. 3 of the highest-quality truffles in Italy are the Perigord Black, the Summer Black, and the Alba White. The Alba White costs up to $1800 for just 20 grams! 

However, you can purchase truffle products, such as truffle oil or butter, for a more reasonable price. Be wary of purchasing truffle products from truffle shops, as they often pass off lower-quality truffles for higher-quality ones or don’t contain much of the real thing.

The best places to purchase truffle products are truffle festivals, restaurants, or farms like the Tenuto Torciano Winery in Tuscany. Visitors can even go truffle-hunting with trained dogs before browsing their selection of truffle products.

Recommended by Shar of of SightseeingShar

Wine

Bringing home a bottle of Italian wine is not just a souvenir. It’s a cherished piece of Italy’s rich cultural traditions, with each region telling its own stories through its wines. It’s almost impossible to think of the country and not also think of its love of wine. The art of cultivating and producing wine has been passed down through generations, adding unique history and context to your souvenir. 

Italy is renowned for its diverse and esteemed wine regions, each producing wines with unique characteristics. From the robust reds of Tuscany to the crisp whites of Friuli, every bottle will take your senses on a new adventure!

The most difficult part is deciding which wine to bring home. Take notes while you’re having lunch or dinner of which wines you enjoy. Also, keep in mind that wine pairing might enhance flavors. A hearty bowl of vegan cream pasta in Florence might pair well with Sauvignon Blanc but not be as enjoyable with something else in another region of the country.

To ensure the authenticity and quality of your wine souvenir, consider purchasing directly from reputable local vineyards or family-owned wineries.

Recommended by Rebecca of Veggies Abroad

Cultural items to buy from Italy

On my travels to Italy, I have picked up watercolour paintings from both Florence and Rome, plus a face mask from Venice. But there are so many cultural products and artefacts to shop for.

Burano Lace

Neighbor to Venice, the tiny island of Burano is best known for its brightly coloured buildings. But did you know that it’s also famous for its lace-making? Make sure to add Burano to your Venice itinerary.

The precise historical origin of Burano’s lace trade is a bit murky. But it’s well-established that Burano has a long history of making lace with needles and exporting it across Europe. Though this method of lace-making diminished in the 19th century, a lace-making school opened on the island in 1872, reviving the trade for next hundred years.

Unfortunately, the school closed in 1970. But the legacy of Burano’s lace-making history holds steady, even with few makers still practicing the craft. Snag a small framed piece depicting a scene from Burano or Venice, or spring for a larger item like a tablecloth or piece of clothing. Or splurge on the real deal — handmade needlework lace, which will cost more than machine-made items due to how time-consuming it is. 

To learn more about the history of Burano lace, view antique examples, and shop for high-quality lace souvenirs, be sure to visit the lace museum, Museo del Merletto (located where the lace-making school once operated!). Or go one step further and take a course in genuine Burano lace-making at the Martina Vidal Atelier!

Recommended by Karissa of In Old Cities

Ceramic heads of Taormina

The ceramic heads of Taormina, Sicily, known as “teste di moro“, stand as distinctive symbols of the region’s artistic heritage. You’ll find them in just about every shop in Taormina and it’s truly one of the best souvenirs in Italy.

Crafted with meticulous detail and bright colors, these ceramic heads are inspired by ancient Greek and Roman theater masks. They are handmade right in Sicily in a nearby town called Caltagirone. 

Shopping for these beautiful ceramic heads is one of the very best things to do in Taormina. To buy an authentic piece, you should explore local artisan shops in Taormina. Managó Ceramiche Siciliane or Turrisi Antique are great options, known for their high-quality ceramics. 

There are many legends associated with these beautiful Sicilian ceramic Moorish heads. One legend, for example, tells the story of a betrayed girl in Palermo’s Arab quarter. She, upon discovering her lover’s secret marriage and imminent departure, decapitated him. She transformed his head into a vase, nurturing it with her tears until a basil plant grew. Envious neighbors replicated the ornate vase, giving rise to the tradition of adorning balconies with terracotta heads.

Recommended by Jackie of Jou Jou Travels

Ceramics from Sardinia

If you venture off to Sardinia, Italy’s second largest island, you should consider buying some ceramics as a souvenir. Ceramics from Sardinia island are unique to the rest of Italy, and the tradition of making ceramics on this Italian island goes back thousands of years.

Sardinian designs typically have nature and animal designs that reflect the island’s natural beauty and traditions. There are often farm animals such as chicken, sheep and cows, as well as other types of birds and fish and vegetable motifs. The designs are sometimes hand painted on the ceramics, or the entire  is in the shape of the animal.

The ceramics from Sardinia are colourful, using colours that you would associate with this dreamy island, such as turquoise, blue, sandy, and yellow.

There are two towns that are most famous for ceramics. They are Oristamo in western Sardinia, or Assemini, which is near Cagliari, the capital. Orisitamo is a bit out of the way for most visitors to Sardinia, but if you head there, you should check out the CMA Cooperativa Maestri d’Arte (Art Masters Cooperative.)

Recommended by Kristin of Tiny Footsteps Travel

Moka Pot

When searching for the perfect souvenir to bring back from Italy, the Moka coffee machine stands out as a strategic choice. It embodies the essence of Italian coffee culture, it’s light, and the smallest version will easily fit in your carry-on.

There isn’t a family in Italy that doesn’t own one or more of these iconic “coffee machines,” locally known as “macchinette del caffè.” The Moka pot offers a brewing method that captures the rich flavour and unique consistency of traditional Italian coffee. This almost rivals the espresso found in Italian coffee shops.

Invented in the early 1930s by Piedmontese salesman Alfonso Bialetti, the Moka pot’s design was inspired by a simple domestic scene—watching his wife do laundry. This moment of insight led to creating a coffee machine that would become an emblem of Italian innovation. His son’s subsequent opening of the Bialetti factory in the 1950s ensured the Moka pot’s place in virtually every Italian home. 

Despite the availability of more sophisticated coffee machines on the market today, the Moka pot remains a beloved method for brewing coffee at home, cherished for its simplicity and the quality of coffee it produces. “Having coffee” in Italy transcends the act, serving as a socio-cultural phenomenon and an opportunity for social interaction. 

Available in various sizes to suit any need, from solo enjoyment to social gatherings, you can find the right Moka pot easily. You will find it in all large supermarkets such as Conad or Coop, and in household stores such as Kasanova. If you want to save money, instead of buying a Bialetti, get one from another brand. If you want top quality, choose the Moka Brikka Bialetti. This is the only one that produces coffee foam identical to what you enjoy at the coffee shop, it costs around €30.

Recommended by Lisa of Rome Travelogues

Murano Island Glass Souvenirs

Venice, the enchanting city of canals and gondolas, is renowned for its unique art and craftsmanship. Among its many treasures, Murano Island stands out as a haven for exquisite glassmaking. Why are Glass Souvenirs from Murano Island among the best in Italy?

The art of glassmaking in Murano dates back to the 13th century when the glassmakers were moved from the main island of Venice to protect against fires. Each piece of Murano glass is meticulously handcrafted, using techniques passed down through generations. The result is a stunning array of vibrant colors, intricate designs, and exquisite details that reflect the beauty and elegance of Venetian art. 

Whether you choose a delicate glass necklace, a mesmerizing vase, or a decorative figurine, these souvenirs encapsulate the essence of Venetian culture and craftsmanship.

When looking for the perfect Murano glass souvenir, there are a few shops worth exploring. Seguso Viro is a historic laboratory that has been producing exceptional glass creations since 1397. Not far from Seguso Viro, you will find Barovier & Toso. This is a renowned glass company with a rich history and an extraordinary selection of glassware.

Bringing home a piece of Murano glass is like owning a work of art that represents the rich cultural heritage of Venice. Whether it’s a small trinket or a statement piece, a souvenir made of Murano glass will always serve as a cherished reminder of your time in Italy.

Recommended by Enzo of Inguaribile Viaggiatore

Objects from Vesuvius’ ashes /volcanic rocks

One of the most original souvenirs to get from Italy are objects and wines made with Vesuvius’ ashes and volcanic rocks. Mount Vesuvius is the volcano responsible for Pompeii’s demise, decimating the city after it erupted in 79 AD. Today, you can acquire various souvenirs made out of the volcano’s elements. Pendants and figurines made out of the ashes and rocks; or simply volcanic rocks alone. Bottles of wine from grapes grown on the slopes of the volcano, in ashes-enriched soil.

I purchased a little figurine from Italian mythology, Lupa. The wolf that suckled the founders of Rome – Remus and Romulus. It is a great addition to the decor of my house, as it is often the one that impresses my guests the most. I also purchased a bottle of red wine, which I found to have a particular taste I never encountered anywhere else. The wine tastes smooth, smoky and with mineral flavors, very much a unique profile flavor for a unique soil. An experience for sure!

The only places you can find these souvenirs are in the stalls around Mount Vesuvius, or directly in the vineyards for the wines. Time to prepare for your climb of Mount Vesuvius!

Recommended by Anya of Stop Going to Paris

Pinocchio figurines

One of the most charming souvenirs that you can bring back from Florence, Italy, are the iconic wooden Pinocchio figurines.  

You will want to keep an eye out for these figurines, especially if you’re traveling to Florence with kids or are a fan of the art of woodworking.  They’re special because they come from the story of Pinocchio, the wooden boy whose nose grows every time he tells a fib.  He’s a cultural symbol in Italy, especially in Florence, where the story’s author, Carlo Collodi, was from.

These handcrafted wooden figures are more than just toys or decorations; they’re a piece of Italian heritage. Local artists in Florence carefully carve and paint each one, bringing this beloved character to life. 

Looking to buy one? Head over to the San Lorenzo market in Florence. This market is full of different stalls selling leather goods, souvenirs, and the beautifully crafted pinocchio figures in all sizes. 

What makes these Pinocchio figures a great find? They’re a fun way to remember your trip to Florence and showcase the amazing work of local artists. Whether you’re getting one for your kids, for yourself, or as a gift, it’s a little piece of Florence you can keep forever.

Recommended by Haley of Gleason Family Travels

Presepe

One of the best souvenirs from Italy is a Presepe. It is a handmade nativity scene that can be purchased when you spend the day in Naples. 

The tradition started in the 13th century when St Francis of Assisi constructed the first nativity using real animals and people. He displayed it for all to see during Christmas Eve mass. Soon after, the scene was associated with a variety of other miracles. So, others started recreating the scene in hopes that something miraculous would happen for them. 

Today, the tradition continues and you can head to Spaccanapoli in Naples to purchase your own Presepe anywhere along Via San Gregorio Armeno. This street is known for selling Presepe and you can even purchase items to make your own nativity scene. 

It makes for an incredible souvenir since this item is an authentic part of modern Italian culture. Italian families start to build the Presepe on December 8th which is the Feast of the Immaculate Conception. The nativity scene is then completed on Christmas Eve and left out until after January 6th, or the Epiphany.

Try to purchase one before November or December since the prices tend to increase dramatically when demand rises. Prices also vary greatly so you can spend anywhere from a few euros to a few thousand euros on a complete nativity scene.

Recommended by Kelly of Girl with the Passport

Puccinella

Pulcinella is a distinctive Neapolitan character with a mask-like face. It is more than a mere souvenir in Naples. Pulcinella embodies the city’s rich cultural history. Stemming from commedia dell’arte traditions, Pulcinella is a symbol of Neapolitan wit and resilience.

What sets Pulcinella apart is its cultural resonance. Originating in the late 16th century, this whimsical character reflects the spirit of Naples, known for its lively and irrepressible people. Pulcinella’s mask, featuring a long nose, sharp chin, and furrowed brow, is iconic and captures the essence of Neapolitan humour. He has a hunchback and is typically dressed in white attire.  All his problems are handled with a smile.

In the historic center of Naples, Via San Gregorio Armeno is the ideal locale to acquire Pulcinella souvenirs. This busy street is renowned for its artisanal workshops, where skilled craftsmen handcraft these unique figures. Purchasing a Pulcinella here ensures an authentic representation of Naples’ cultural heritage. 

A Pulcinella souvenir is more than a mere trinket. It offers a tangible connection to Naples’ love of art, literature, and performance.  While exploring Naples historic center, visit the bronze bust of Pulcinella (Busto di Pulcinella). Tradition states that you should rub his nose for good fortune!

Recommended by Janet of Practical Travel Concepts

Venetian masks

The ornate masks of Carnival have become an iconic symbol of Venice, making them one of the best souvenirs from Italy. Although the masks are only worn during the annual festival, they are sold year round in this floating city.

The tradition of the masks goes back hundreds of years. While the history isn’t very specific, it is believed that aristocrats used to wear them in public while out in the town to avoid being recognized. Today modern Venetians wear them during the holiday festival of carnival to carry on this tradition of their heritage. 

For visitors wanting to buy a Venetian mask, there are quite a few options, ranging from low priced souvenir masks at the tourist shopping stalls to authentic hand made masks crafted by a local artist. For those looking for an authentic mask, the best place to shop is Ca’ Macana. There are plenty of options available. 

So after taking a gondola down the grand canal and having an espresso in St. Mark’s Square, you can stop by a local mask shop to take home a piece of this classic Venetian tradition. 

Recommended by Olivia of Girl With Blue Sails

Watercolour Paintings

One of the best souvenirs you can get from Italy is a watercolour painting. While they aren’t exclusive to Italy and you can get them anywhere in the world, the landmarks, attractions, landscapes, streets and foods of Italy all make for beautiful paintings.

You can get them all across the country and they usually feature popular sights, such as the Colosseum, Leaning Tower of Pisa, Pompeii etc. What makes them such a good souvenir is that watercolour paintings are very versatile. They can come in the form of postcards, posters, framed paintings, and pretty much any other form of flat art. 

Naturally, the bigger it is, the more expensive it is. So if you’re travelling to Rome on a budget, you might opt for a postcard of the Colosseum. Though on that note, make sure you opt for watercolour paintings which are handmade, or family-made. There are lots of “watercolour paintings” which are actually just prints. They’re still nice but nowhere near as good as a painting which is authentic and actually painted. 

You can find them in most souvenir shops, and the prices are usually pretty consistent across the board. But the main price difference will be if it is handmade. Make sure to ask if it isn’t clear, as some souvenir places will sell printed ones for the price of handmade ones assuming that you won’t ask. All in all, they’re a really handy souvenir which are easy to get home, and they make for nice gifts and look amazing in any home they get displayed in.

Recommended by Josh of A Backpacker’s World

Best Italy souvenirs: Accessories, clothes, personal care products

On my Amalfi coast 4-day trip, i bought a linen dress from a small shop in Positano and another one in Anacapri. Excellent choices! I still wear them in Indian summers. There are many other personal products that you can buy in Italy for self use or as gifts.

Leather products from Florence

Buying leather products in Florence is a must when in Italy (unless you’re vegan), for souvenirs you can use in your photos and keep for years to come! The practice of making leather in Florence dates back to ancient times. The Arno River provided easy access to water used in the tanning process.

Leather jackets, bags, shoes, belts, wallets, and fun souvenir items like the glasses case and keychain I bought, are all great options in Firenze. You’ll need to know what you’re looking for, if you want to actually get something made in Florence. For real leather from Florence, you should shop from a trusted local boutique. The higher prices will reflect the quality but you may find a sale, which I did when I bought my backpack and wallet.

I also talked to the shop owner, who told me about his products and how they were made, which let me know the history and quality. In comparison, I bought my glasses case and keychain at the touristy outdoor market. They were much cheaper – I just got them for fun!

Here are a few shops that sell quality, local leather in Florence: Benheart, Dimitri Villoresi, Casini, and Giorgio 1966 Leather Store.

Recommended by Sarah Simon of Mukikapup’s Travels

Leather handbags in Rome

As you wander the streets of Rome during your Italy trip, whether on a 4-day Rome itinerary or a longer 10-day visit, there is one item you will see everywhere. Hanging from sidewalk carts and overflowing small shops on cobblestone alleys branching out from the Trevi Fountain or Piazza Navona. Or beckoning from the windows of the gleaming high-fashion boutiques on Via Condotti. It is the Italian leather handbag. 

Recognized for impeccable craftsmanship and design, Italy is renowned for producing some of the finest leather goods in the world. With meticulous attention to detail and premium materials, these leather handbags and accompanying accessories convey a fashion statement.

Whether you prefer a crossbody bag, tote, clutch, or stylish backpack, Rome offers shoppers an abundance of choices to suit every taste, budget, and preference. If you are looking for bags at a budget-friendly price tag, search around the streets radiating out from the Pantheon. Within a few minutes walk, especially on the small lanes just north of it, you will find more options than you could hope to shop in one trip. 

Recommended by Janice of Gather and go travel

Lemon Soaps

We came across lemon soaps on a trip to Lake Garda in Northern Italy. A small village with an enchanting old town, perched against the rocks and known as Limone sul Garda, is the home of all lemons in the region. Lemon and olive orchards have been growing in the warm climate along the shores of Italy’s largest lake for centuries. 

Lemons are omnipresent in Limone sul Garda and the best way to enjoy the fragrant citrus fruits back home is to get some handcrafted lemon soaps from the region. They come in different shapes, and that means in a classic bar form or in the shape of a large or smaller lemon. 

The best lemon soaps can be found near the port of the old town in Limone. Boutique shops specialize in lemon and olives, and you will find plenty of choices to satisfy your needs. 

You can also purchase special gift bags of assorted lemon soaps, which we bought because they were aesthetically pleasing. The same boutiques also sell other lemon products from the village, so you will find a great choice of lemon syrups, limoncello, pickles and relishes to try before your purchase.

Recommended by Paul of Paulmarina

Silk Ties / Scarves

Lake Como is famous for many things – the beautiful villas, the gorgeous lakeside promenades, and the small colorful villages tumbling down the hillsides. It’s also famous for being the center of silk production in Italy. In particular, the town of Bellagio is a hotspot for silk boutiques. It is worth visiting Bellagio whether you stay in Como town, or in other lovely spots like nearby Varenna. 

The history of silk in Bellagio has an interesting backstory. Silkworms were allegedly smuggled out of China and brought to the Mediterranean, where they eventually ended up in Northern Italy. Lake Como is an ideal place for silkworms, thanks to the water from the lake and the abundance of mulberry plants. These were planted thanks to the Duke of Milan – the same man who commissioned The Last Supper by Da Vinci. 

Today, you can find shops all over Como area selling silk, particularly in Bellagio, where boutiques selling silk ties, scarves, and blouses can be found throughout the town. In particular, Bellagioseta is a lovely boutique with authentic silk goods to peruse. 

Recommended by Stephanie of The Unknown Enthusiast

Other Things to buy in Italy

Funny apron

A unique gift that you can buy in Rome, Italy is a cooking apron with the statue of David and the Italian flag. The statue on the apron is a renowned masterpiece created by the Italian Renaissance artist Michelangelo. Officially titled “David,” the sculpture depicts the biblical hero David who famously defeated the giant Goliath with a single stone. Michelangelo sculpted this iconic work between 1501 and 1504. The statue stands at 17 feet (5.17 meters) tall and is currently located in the Accademia Gallery in Florence.

Strangely, the apron is a popular souvenir to buy in Rome and not Florence. Many shops sell it, especially the stores around Termini Station (which is the main train station and transportation hub in Rome).

It is a standard-size apron and it is made of 100% polyester. The apron is a useful souvenir/gift as you can use it while you cook, remembering your travels in Europe. In addition, it is light and it does not take up a lot of space in your luggage. You can fold the apron tightly and it would barely take up any room. You dont have to worry about it breaking or getting damaged in any way as it is simply made out of fabric.

Recommended by V Kay of Travel Addicted Unicorn

Handmade Paper

If you’re looking for a unique souvenir from Italy, be sure to stop by the excellent Museo Della Carta in Amalfi, Italy. The small museum is a little off the beaten path in the popular vacation spot, but it’s well-worth a visit for a unique slice of history. 

Paper-making was one of the main industries in Amalfi and dates all the way back to the 13th century. The museum chronicles this rich history of handmade paper-making in the region. The museum features an excellent guided tour that will walk you through the paper-making process, with demonstrations of the different machinery used to make the paper. 

You’ll get to see water wheels, giant presses dating back to the 18th century, and wooden hammers that beat linen and hemp to make the paper. A highlight of the tour is a chance to actually make your own paper by dipping sheets of linen into a large vat of treated water. 

At the end of the tour, visitors have a chance to buy some of the handmade paper, including paper with special prints such as flowers on it. You can even come back a few days later and see the finished paper that you helped make on tour!  

Recommended by Merry Allison of Virginia Vacation Guide

Tips for shopping for Italian Souvenirs

There are too many things to buy from Italy, so have your priority list and a rough budget ready. Here are some other tips for buying the best souvenirs of Italy.

1. Region-specific: Shopping for products specific to the region you’re visiting can give you the best quality and pricing for Italian souvenirs. And add something special to the memory. Carnival masks from Venice, Leather from Florence, Truffles in Tuscany, Chocolates from Turin or Baci, Limoncello from Amalfi coast.
2. Check for Food certification. Acronyms like IGP and DOP show that the food product is legally guaranteed by the European Union to be “authentic,” or made in the original town or region with real ingredients.
3. For food items, though, be sure to double-check any necessary regulations before packing up to leave Italy.
   • For some food products like cheese, to make transportation back home easier, it’s a good idea to have the cheese vacuum-packed in the store.
   • When flying internationally with Italian herbs and condiments, be careful to have the original packaging and check if you are allowed to bring them back home. In the European Union, it’s allowed but they have to be in their original packaging.
   • Many wineries will also offer shipping, so you don’t have to worry about packing the bottles in your checked luggage.
4. Tips to look for in leather from Florence / elsewhere in Italy:
   • Make sure it smells natural and musky
   • The leather should feel supple and soft
   • It should have small stitching, close together

So make sure that you have enough room in your luggage to shop for the best souvenirs from Italy!

Planning a trip to Italy? Happy to help with these posts –

Italy Itinerary: The classic two-week Italy Itinerary

Italian cities: One day in Florence, 4 days in Rome, 2 days in Venice

Italian regions: Amalfi coast itinerary for 4 days, Capri day trip, Lake Como in 3 days, Cinque Terre

Food in Italy: Best Local & Traditional Italian Food you must try

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Have you visited Italy? Which Italian souvenir has been your favourite?

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