One of the pleasures of visiting Italy is the opportunity it grants you to take a look around local markets, and to uncover authentic treasures that other tourists might overlook. This is something that applies to the rural parts of the country, as well as the big cities.

Let’s take a look at a few distinct kinds of items that you might consider during your visit to an Italian market.

Vintage Silk Scarves

When you’re shopping in a marketplace, you’ll often be able to avoid the more recognisable, global brands, in favour of smaller luxury-focused ateliers. This is important in the case of scarves, whose hems might be rolled by hand, rather than using a machine. Hermes-style silk scarves are often a popular choice.

Vintage Watches

When you’re shopping in an obscure marketplace, it’s easy to be stung by fake watches. With that said, it’s possible to pick out a bargain, if you understand what it is that you’re looking for. Authenticated items by reputable manufacturers like Cartier Santos are always worth considering.

Italian Leather Handbags

Florence is a part of Italy that’s famous for the quality of its leatherwork, and for handbags in particular. The best vintage examples will have matured over time, developing an eye-catching patina and depth of colour. Look for the luxury fashion houses, or smaller ones that embody the same commitment to craftsmanship.

Murano Glass Jewellery

Murano glassware tends to be hand-blown, carrying on an artistic tradition that’s been thriving in Venice, and elsewhere, for centuries. Pendants and beads are a great choice. They allow you to avoid the mass-produced alternatives churned out by big-name designers, in favour of something a little more quirky and unique.

The good news is that this kind of jewellery is easy to find in a good Italian market. The bad news is that you can easily spend hours considering the selection on offer!

Tailored Wool Coats

Italian tailoring is legendary, and this is never more evident than when we’re talking about a one-of-a-kind wool coat. You’re unlikely to find a gem that matches your proportions exactly, and so some adjustment may be necessary when you finally get the item you’re looking at home. The effort, however, might be more than justified by the results that you enjoy. Look for virgin wool, camel hair, and cashmere blends, and be sure that you have something reasonable for your tailor to work with.

Disclosure: This is a collaborative post.