Introduction
Think of your first few shopping expeditions in Bologna as adventures. Shopping is a great way to practice your Italian, get to know Bologna and learn more about the cuisine and culture. Whether you’re looking to fare la spesa or fare shopping, you’ll need to follow some shopping etiquette. In many shops there is not much ‘self-service’ and in some clothing stores you should let the titolare or commessa help you. Unless you are in the piazzola, it is best not to touch any merchandise on your own. If you haven’t decided and simply wish to browse, you can always say ‘dò solo un’occhiata, grazie’.
Although there are numerous large supermarkets in the city, food shopping at small grocers or in the open-air and covered fresh produce markets is still part of the daily ritual for many Italians. For the newcomer, figuring out when shops are open can be confusing. While some shops in the historical center of the city still close for a long lunch and don’t reopen on Thursday afternoons, most others maintain orario continuato. Open for business or not, the pride Bologna shopkeepers take in their enticing vetrine makes window shopping under the city’s characteristic portici a delightful experience, no matter what the weather!
fare la spesa = go grocery shopping
fare shopping = go shopping for clothes, gifts etc.
il titolare/la commessa = owner or salesperson
la piazzola = weekly bazaar in Piazza VIII Agosto
dò solo un’occhiata, grazie = I’m just looking, thanks
orario continuato = continuous opening without a midday closure
le vetrine = window displays
portici = arcades
Shopping Etiquette
DON’T TOUCH THE PRODUCE The rule, whether in your local market or a superstore, is that fruit and vegetables must not come into direct contact
Food Shopping
SMALL SHOPS AND MARKETS Many people in Bologna do their shopping at negozi di alimentari (small grocers), outdoor markets and specialty shops. While it can
Bologna Specialties
If you love rich, full-flavored dishes, then you’ve come to the right place. Many dishes here are laden with butter and cream, although it is
Shopping Malls
In recent years, shopping malls have sprung up like mushrooms in the outskirts of Bologna. If it weren’t for the authentic espresso at the food
Clothes & Shoes
Browsing is not always part of the equation in small shops and boutiques when shopping for abbigliamento e calzature (clothes and shoes). You are expected to
Outlet Stores
If money were no object, it would not be hard to be chic and trendy in Bologna – inspiration is everywhere. But doing so on
Second-hand & Eco-friendly Shopping
Second-hand shopping in Bologna used to mean going to the open-air markets in Piazzola or to more upscale Mercato dell’Antiquariato in Piazza Santo Stefano. However,