Why Tourists Should Not Try To Beat The Crowds And Go Shopping Early When In Rome

If you're visiting the beautiful city of Rome, be prepared to be gobsmacked. As you stroll through the streets, every inch of Rome is absolutely jaw-dropping, with incredible architecture, monuments, statues, and fountains. The entire city is like an open museum just waiting to be discovered. Rome is one of the most enjoyable cities for taking long walks and discovering the city on foot — but don't try to beat the crowds by hitting the shops early.

But before you visit this enchanting city, you have to get familiar with the Italian culture that will influence your entire stay and know that they follow a slow-paced, even leisurely lifestyle. This laid-back approach, known as "Lo Struscio," will definitely influence common working hours, as you'll find stores, shops, and even some monuments open at a later or even close midday during pausa pranzo, which is their midday lunch break. So, if you're thinking of getting up early and beating the crowds on your shopping expedition in Rome, think again. Since most local brands will open their stores later in the day and might have unique working hours, it is best to check in advance instead of ruining your day. Remember, shopping in Rome is a memorable experience where the vibrant local vibe and atmosphere shine, even amidst the tourist crowds.

Italians are very laid back, and that is even evident in their working hours. So, instead of trying to beat the crowds and get there early only to find the stores closed, make sure to check the opening hours of each shopping center or store you're planning to visit. The usual opening hours for most shops are 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. Just remember that some shops take a break midday and close from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m., reopening until 7:00 to 8:00 p.m. Each store is different and follows its own unique hours, so it's always best to check each place you plan to visit to avoid disappointment. However, when it comes to major department stores or supermarkets, it's likely they'll be open all day, and even on Sundays.

If you know anything about Italians and their lifestyle, you'll know that they appreciate their relaxed pace, especially in the mornings. That's why opening hours vary — locals savor coffee and breakfast at a leisurely pace before fully starting their day. Many shops tend to open later to accommodate this lifestyle and rhythm. Like the Spanish, Italians also embrace a midday break, closing shops briefly for lunch, rest, or a short nap before reopening — reflecting their cultural focus on relaxation and family time.

The first step to truly enjoying your shopping spree in Rome is adapting to local customs and planning ahead. While Milan may be Italy's fashion capital, Rome is a traveler's paradise, brimming with small boutiques that offer top-notch quality, exceptional leather goods, and trendy clothing — all waiting to be discovered.

While many people tend to avoid crowds, shopping in Rome is more of a social activity, and shopping during peak hours will allow you to immerse yourself in the local culture and experience the vibrant atmosphere like a local. That's why it's recommended to shop during late afternoons or late mornings. Remember, if you're traveling in the summer, many small shops tend to close in August or during specific holidays; so always check store hours in advance.

To truly experience shopping in Rome, you can't miss the alternative experiences, such as evening markets that offer late-night shopping and local brands that are to die for. Be sure to check out Mercato Monti, where fashion meets art; Porta Portese Market, an interesting flea market that operates on Sunday mornings; and, of course, Piazza Fontanella Borghese Night Market to experience Rome by night.