Venice is home to some of the most beautiful and historic shops, each with its own unique story and rich craftsmanship. These establishments offer an immersive experience in both luxury and tradition, making them essential stops for visitors seeking to explore the city’s deep-rooted artisanal culture.
One such gem is Cantina del Vino gia Schiavi, a 150-year-old wine cellar located along a canal. Known for its collection of local wines, including prosecco and rare vintages from the Veneto and Friuli regions, it offers a cozy atmosphere for tasting regional delights. Whether you’re in search of a quality grappa or traditional cichetti nibbles, the cantina provides a taste of Venetian hospitality.
For stationery lovers, Antica Stamperia Gianni Basso offers a glimpse into Venice’s long history of printing. Located in a charming alley, this workshop has been crafting bespoke stationery since 1981. Using traditional hand-operated presses, Basso produces elegant invitations, business cards, and bookmarks, offering customers the chance to own a piece of Venetian printing history. The shop also proudly displays cards from famous figures, creating an atmosphere of old-world charm.
Another hidden treasure is Farmacia Santa Fosca, a 17th-century apothecary tucked away on Strada Nova. With its restored wood-panelled salon, gilded scales, and Murano glass bottles, the pharmacy is a testament to Venice’s historical role in the world of wellness. Offering herbal teas and natural remedies alongside luxury perfumes, this store invites visitors to indulge in the scents and traditions of the past.
Antica Drogheria Mascari, located near the Rialto market, is a family-run delicatessen that has been serving Venetians since 1948. Specializing in regional products like bigoli pasta and Burano biscuits, this shop is a feast for the senses. It also offers an impressive selection of spices and vintage glass jars filled with sweets, perfect for those wanting to take home a taste of Venice.
For those interested in traditional Venetian masks, La Bottega Dei Mascareri is a must-visit. Master mask-maker Sergio Boldrin has been crafting exquisite, hand-painted masks since 1979, many of which are used in Commedia dell’Arte performances. His shop, a small yet captivating space, features both classic carnival masks and contemporary designs, making it a perfect stop for those looking for authentic Venetian artistry.
Jewelry enthusiasts can explore Nardi, an opulent boutique located beneath the arcades of Piazza San Marco. Specializing in Venetian-inspired pieces, Nardi is known for its intricate designs, such as the lapis lazuli gondola brooch, encrusted with diamonds and sapphires. The shop’s baroque decor, complete with Murano chandeliers and antique furniture, adds to the allure of this prestigious family-run business, which has been in operation for almost a century.
The Despar Teatro Italia supermarket, housed in a Venetian Gothic building, offers a unique way to appreciate Venice’s architecture while shopping. This palatial food hall, once a cinema and later a lecture hall, is now a supermarket with beautiful frescoed ceilings. It is often referred to as the most beautiful supermarket in Italy, attracting both locals and tourists who enjoy its historical ambiance while picking up ingredients for a picnic or cooking at home.
For a truly extraordinary experience, Nicolao Atelier is an artisan costume designer’s paradise. Stefano Nicolao’s workshop, located in a grand Gothic palazzo on the Misericordia canal, is the go-to place for renting carnival costumes. The showroom also houses a museum-standard collection of 15,000 meticulously replicated period costumes, spanning from the Renaissance to the 19th century. Nicolao’s costumes have even appeared in films such as Farinelli and Casanova.
In a quieter corner of Cannaregio, Fiorenzo Fallani’s silk-screen printing workshop offers a hands-on experience for artists and visitors alike. The studio, founded in 1968, produces limited-edition prints and also offers courses where guests can try their hand at the intricate process of silk-screen printing. The space doubles as both an exhibition gallery and a working studio, where visitors can admire the art while witnessing the craft in action.
Finally, the Palazzo Ca’Pisani Rubelli, home to the Rubelli family’s luxury textiles, is a must-visit for anyone interested in the world of fashion and design. The showroom offers a glimpse into the family’s current collections, while the archives house over 7,000 historic designs. Inspired by Venice’s rich artistic and cultural history, Rubelli’s fabrics are renowned worldwide for their elegance and quality.
Each of these shops captures a different facet of Venice’s cultural heritage, offering visitors a chance to take home not only unique products but also a piece of the city’s timeless spirit.
