What to Buy in Venice

Venice, the enchanting city of canals, is not only a feast for the eyes but also a treasure trove of unique and authentic souvenirs. Known for its rich history, artistic heritage, and vibrant culture, Venice offers a wide array of items that make for perfect mementos of your visit. Whether you’re looking for traditional crafts, delicious culinary treats, stylish fashion items, or one-of-a-kind artistic finds, the city has something to suit every taste and budget.

Table of Contents

• Venetian Treasures
• Where to Buy Venetian Souvenirs: A Shopper’s Guide

Venetian Treasures

Traditional Venetian Crafts

Venice is renowned for its centuries-old craftsmanship, and its traditional crafts make for unforgettable souvenirs. Here are some of the most iconic items to look for:

Venetian Masks: Venetian masks are synonymous with the city’s Carnival tradition. Handcrafted from papier-mâché, leather, or porcelain, these masks come in a variety of styles, from the classic Bauta to the intricate Colombina. They are perfect for adding a touch of Venetian elegance to your home or as a unique gift.Visit Ca’ Macana or Tragicomica in the Dorsoduro district to find beautifully crafted masks.

• Location: Southern district of Venice, stretching from the Accademia Bridge to Punta della Dogana

• Hours: Accessible 24/7; specific attractions have varying hours

• Cost: Free to explore; individual attractions may have entry fees

• Features: A vibrant and artistic district known for its cultural landmarks, charming canals, and lively atmosphere. Highlights include the Peggy Guggenheim Collection (modern art), Gallerie dell’Accademia (Renaissance masterpieces), and the Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute. The area also features picturesque squares like Campo Santa Margherita, lined with cafes and bars, and the Zattere promenade, offering stunning views of the Giudecca Canal. A perfect blend of art, history, and local Venetian life.

Murano Glass: Murano glass is one of Venice’s most famous exports. From delicate jewelry and colorful vases to intricate chandeliers, these hand-blown glass creations are a testament to the skill of Murano’s artisans. Visit the island of Murano to watch glassblowers at work and purchase authentic pieces directly from the source. After purchasing a piece of Murano glass, consider taking a short vaporetto ride to the island of San Giorgio Maggiore. The island’s church and bell tower offer panoramic views of Venice, making it a perfect spot to reflect on your shopping adventure and enjoy the city’s beauty from above.

• Location: Dorsoduro, 1, 30123 Venice

• Hours: Open daily from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 3:00 PM to 5:30 PM

• Cost: €4 (entry to the sacristy)

• Features: A Baroque masterpiece with stunning views of the Grand Canal and artworks by Titian and Tintoretto.

Burano Lace: The island of Burano is famous for its handmade lace, a tradition that dates back to the 16th century. Lace tablecloths, handkerchiefs, and clothing items are delicate and timeless souvenirs that showcase Venetian artistry.

• Location: Burano Island, Venice

• Hours: Open daily, accessible by Vaporetto

• Cost: Free to visit the island; additional costs for workshops

• Features: Famous for its brightly colored houses and lace-making tradition; a peaceful island perfect for a family day trip, with colorful streets and opportunities to see artisans at work in lace workshops

Venetian Marbled Paper: Venetian marbled paper is a unique and artistic souvenir. Used for bookbinding, stationery, and decorative items, these papers feature intricate, colorful patterns that are handmade using traditional techniques.

Venetian Beads: Venetian glass beads, or perle veneziane, are another iconic craft. These beads are used to create stunning jewelry and accessories, making them a versatile and beautiful keepsake.

Culinary Delights

Venice’s culinary traditions are as rich as its cultural heritage. Bring home a taste of Venice with these delicious souvenirs:

Buranelli/Bussolai Cookies: These buttery, ring-shaped cookies from Burano are a local favorite. Perfect with coffee or tea, they make for a sweet and portable souvenir.

Baicoli di Venezia: Baicoli are thin, crunchy biscuits that have been a Venetian staple for centuries. Often enjoyed with coffee or dipped in sweet wine, they are a simple yet delicious treat.

Prosecco and Bellini: Prosecco, the sparkling wine from the Veneto region, is a must-buy for wine lovers. For a unique twist, look for Bellini, a cocktail made with Prosecco and peach purée, which was invented in Venice.

Grappa: Grappa, a strong Italian spirit made from grape pomace, is a popular digestif in Venice. It’s available in a variety of flavors and makes for a bold and memorable souvenir.

Venetian Spices and Sauces: Venice’s history as a trading hub has left a lasting influence on its cuisine. Look for spice blends, sauces, and condiments like Sarde in Saor to recreate Venetian flavors at home.

Fashion and Accessories

Venice offers a range of stylish and unique fashion items that reflect its artistic heritage:

Venetian Jewelry: From gold and silver pieces to Murano glass creations, Venetian jewelry is both elegant and distinctive. Look for designs inspired by the city’s architecture and history.

Leather Goods: Venice is home to skilled leather artisans who create high-quality bags, gloves, and shoes. These items are both practical and stylish, making them excellent souvenirs.

Silk Accessories: Venetian silk scarves and ties are luxurious and timeless. Often featuring intricate patterns and vibrant colors, they are a perfect way to add a touch of Venetian flair to your wardrobe.

Gondolier Hats: For a fun and unique souvenir, consider a traditional gondolier hat. These straw hats with colorful ribbons are a playful reminder of Venice’s iconic gondolas.

Unique and Artistic Finds

For those seeking one-of-a-kind souvenirs, Venice offers a variety of artistic and unconventional items:

Venetian Artworks: Venice has long been a hub for artists, and you’ll find a wide range of paintings, prints, and sculptures inspired by the city’s beauty. Look for pieces by local artists to bring home a piece of Venetian creativity. After admiring Venetian artworks, consider visiting the Peggy Guggenheim Collection in Dorsoduro. This modern art museum, housed in a beautiful palazzo, offers a refreshing contrast to Venice’s historic landmarks and is a must-visit for art enthusiasts.

• Location: Dorsoduro 701, 30123 Venezia VE, Italy

• Hours: Open daily from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM

• Cost: Entry from €15 for adults; discounted rates for children

• Features: A modern art museum with family-friendly workshops and activities; a beautiful sculpture garden where kids can roam while exploring contemporary art in interactive ways.

Handmade Wooden Puzzles and Boats: Handcrafted wooden puzzles and model boats are unique souvenirs that reflect Venice’s maritime heritage. These intricate pieces are both decorative and functional.

Venetian Clocks: Venetian clocks, often featuring elaborate designs and Murano glass elements, are a beautiful and functional souvenir. They make for a stunning addition to any home.

Italian Perfumes: Venice is home to several perfumeries that create unique fragrances inspired by the city’s atmosphere. These perfumes make for a personal and memorable gift.

Venetian Stationery: From marbled paper notebooks to hand-bound journals, Venetian stationery is both practical and artistic. These items are perfect for writers and creatives.

Where to Buy Venetian Souvenirs: A Shopper’s Guide

Venice is a shopper’s paradise, offering a variety of markets, boutiques, and artisan workshops where you can find authentic and unique souvenirs. Whether you’re searching for traditional crafts, culinary delights, or stylish fashion items, here’s a guide to the best places to shop in Venice, with detailed descriptions to help you navigate the city’s vibrant shopping scene.

Traditional Venetian Crafts

When it comes to traditional Venetian crafts, the city is brimming with options. For Venetian masks, head to Ca’ Macana or Tragicomica in the Dorsoduro district. These shops are renowned for their high-quality, handcrafted masks, ranging from classic Carnival designs to intricate theatrical pieces. Watching artisans at work here is like stepping back in time to Venice’s golden age.

For Murano glass, a trip to the island of Murano is a must. This is where you’ll find workshops like Venini and Barovier & Toso, where skilled glassblowers create everything from delicate jewelry to stunning chandeliers. If you can’t make it to Murano, Marina e Susanna Sent in San Marco offers contemporary glass jewelry that captures the essence of Venetian craftsmanship.

• Location: Murano Island, Venice

• Hours: Workshops typically open daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM

• Cost: Free entry to the island; workshop demonstrations from €5 per person

• Features: Watch skilled artisans create delicate glass items; children can participate by creating their own glass souvenirs under supervision.

If Burano lace is on your list, the island of Burano is the place to go. Shops like Emilia Burano and Martina Vidal specialize in handmade lace products, from delicate tablecloths to elegant clothing. Each piece tells a story of centuries-old traditions passed down through generations.

Culinary Delights

Venice’s culinary offerings are as rich as its cultural heritage. For Buranelli/Bussolai cookies, stop by Pasticceria Garbo on Burano or Pasticceria Tonolo in Dorsoduro. These buttery, ring-shaped cookies are a local favorite and make for a sweet and portable souvenir.

Wine lovers should visit Cantine del Vino già Schiavi, a historic wine bar near the Accademia Bridge. Here, you’ll find a wide selection of Prosecco and Bellini, the iconic Venetian cocktail made with Prosecco and peach purée. For grappa and spices, Drogheria Mascari near the Rialto Market is a treasure trove of local flavors, offering everything from artisanal spirits to Venetian spice blends.

Fashion and Accessories

Venice’s fashion scene is as stylish as it is unique. For Venetian jewelry, Missiaglia in Piazza San Marco is a must-visit. This luxurious boutique offers exquisite gold and silver pieces inspired by the city’s rich history. If you’re looking for something more contemporary, Vetri Artistici Murano specializes in jewelry featuring Murano glass, blending traditional craftsmanship with modern design.

Leather enthusiasts will love Il Grifone in San Polo, a family-run workshop known for its high-quality leather bags and accessories. Each piece is crafted with care, making it a perfect blend of style and functionality. For silk accessories, Venetia Studium near St. Mark’s Basilica offers elegant scarves and ties adorned with patterns inspired by Venetian art and architecture.

• Location: Piazza San Marco, 328, 30100 Venezia VE, Italy

• Hours: Open daily from 9:30 AM to 5:15 PM

• Cost: Entry to the basilica is free; additional fees for museum and terraces start from €5

• Features: A stunning example of Byzantine architecture, famous for its golden mosaics and historical relics.

Unique and Artistic Finds

For those seeking one-of-a-kind souvenirs, Venice has plenty to offer. Art lovers should visit Galleria di Piazza San Marco or the Peggy Guggenheim Collection, where you can find prints and artworks by local artists. These pieces capture the essence of Venice’s vibrant art scene and make for meaningful keepsakes.

If you’re looking for something more unconventional, Il Pavone di Venezia in San Polo specializes in handcrafted wooden items, including puzzles and model boats. These intricate creations are both decorative and functional, reflecting Venice’s maritime heritage. For Venetian stationery, Legatoria Piazzesi, one of the oldest paper shops in Venice, offers beautifully crafted marbled paper and journals that are perfect for writers and creatives.

Markets and Shopping Districts

No shopping guide to Venice would be complete without mentioning its iconic markets. The Rialto Market is a bustling hub where you can find fresh produce, spices, and local delicacies. Nearby shops also sell Venetian crafts and souvenirs, making it a one-stop destination for foodies and shoppers alike.

For vintage treasures and second-hand books, the Mercatino di San Maurizio is a hidden gem. This flea market is a great place to hunt for unique finds and immerse yourself in the local culture. If you’re in the mood for high-end shopping, Calle Larga XXII Marzo, near St. Mark’s Square, is home to luxury boutiques and designer stores offering everything from fashion to homeware.