We are going to Venice, Florence and then Rome. Looking for small handbags, wallets, belts, etc... Any location better than another?
Posted by
Boscombe, Dorset, UK
964 posts
I was just in Florence and was amazed at how many leather shops there were. All qualities. If you decide to buy from a street vendor (they have some really nice things) don't be afraid to haggle. I stopped to ask the price of a bag and was told 55 euros. When I started to walk away it went to 50, 45 and 40 in moments. Same thing happened with some prints- 25 euros became 5!
Posted by
Land of La
9317 posts
In Firenze, Roberta's. www.robertasfirenze.com, Maria Vittoria on Via Porta Rossa or what Maggie said.
Posted by
Wiesbaden, Germany
791 posts
Don't bother in Venice, you will not find a leather/bag shop that hasn't been taken over by the Chinese.
Posted by
California
494 posts
Fortunately, there are still a couple left, Rik. But unfortunately, the Chinese once are everywhere - rather sad!!! I like the one in Campo San Toma in San Polo, next to the Ciak bar. At least they were there last January.
Posted by
Wiesbaden, Germany
791 posts
Couple years ago I had a friend from high school visiting and we were showing her around Venice. She wanted to buy a special bag for her boyfriend back home so we went to about a dozen or so bag shops looking for it and every single one was Chinese. I've been going to Venice regularly for about 12 years now and have seen the island become more and more Chinese every year. Even my once favorite hangout, the Bacaro Jazz got bought out and they ruined the place by running it like a military outfit instead of a popular bar. I still enjoy going to Venice as much as ever but it's kind of sad to see how much has been taken over by the Chinese.