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Shopping in Florence and Venice

We are leaving for Italy in a week! We've been to Italy 3 times and have bought stuff. This time I'd love to buy a mask in Venice. Does anyone have any ideas for shops where they have bought one? I do have the Rick Steves Venice book and he mentions some places. Then in Florence I want to get a leather purse....Any ideas for a store there? I'd appreciate any suggestions.

Posted by
19658 posts

As I recall, there are a lot of leather goods shops around the Piazza Santa Croce in Florence. There are mask shops all over the touristy parts of Venice.

Posted by
15043 posts

Leather shops are everywhere in Florence. I don't think there's a street without one. Leather production area is primarily in the communities west of Florence. That's where I used to buy since downtown Florence is overpriced for the tourist crowd. the only clothing store I can recommend downtown, is near the station: Santini, located in via Alamanni. Not sure they sell leather purses. The San Lorenzo market has lots. The Cascine park market on Thursdays mornings even cheaper.

Posted by
712 posts

I believe Cascine Park market is open only on Tuesdays. I personally wouldn't buy a leather bag there, as you can find better quality for lower prices at San Lorenzo market (don't forget to bargain!). Cascine has some quality items here and there but it's more of a "flea market" (of which I am obsessed!). So your best bet is probably San Lorenzo where you can find quality items, and remember to look at the stalls and also the stores behind them. But as mentioned, leather is everywhere. Happy shopping!

Posted by
588 posts

What about shopping for a small piece of Murano glass in Venice? Any suggestions. I would like a paperweight or something comparable.

Posted by
492 posts

This is my favorite Murano glass shop in Venice. They only sell Murano glass. Have fun.

Posted by
57 posts

For masks in Venice, try Ca' Macana in the Dorsoduro neighborhood. I have bought 2 masks there and the quality is excellent. A little pricey but worth it.

Posted by
175 posts

Thanks for all the great replies. Karen, glad to hear you shopped at Ca'Macana. I read about that place on Trip Advisor, and definitely plan to go. Just Travel, the bead shop looks interesting, and I'll check it out. Might have to do a purse too, but not spend too much. Flying to Venice on Thursday!!

Posted by
492 posts

Buon viaggio, Judy. I also purchased a set of three masks at Ca'Macana, now displayed on one of our walls. Highly recommend them. You can even take mask making at their workshop. I hope you like Atmosfera. Tell them that their friend from San Francisco said hello. Enjoy your trip.

Posted by
175 posts

Greetings from Venice!! Had a great day of shopping and walking around Venice today. Looked in so many mask shops. My husband finally said "he didn't want to see another mask shop". Loved that shop you mentioned, Karen. We ended buying a cool one at a shop Rick Steves recommends so we could stop looking! I found your glass shop, Just Travel. Greeted him from you, and he remembered you. Bought 3 things there. Can't wait to get to Florence now:-)