Shopping in Rimini
From its earliest history Rimini has always been an important centre for trade, and that hasn't changed. It is, without exaggeration, a shopper's paradise. Italians flock to Rimini not just because of its beaches and hotels, but also because there are bargains to be had shopping in the local markets, factory outlets, and shops.
Markets
The tradition of the market stall may have been largely lost in a lot of other European countries, but in Italy it reigns supreme. Locals searching for fresh bread/vegetables etc are more likely to make their way to the local food market than a supermarket. Fashion conscious teenagers have probably decked themselves out from a market stall, where all the latest trends are represented at rock-bottom prices. If you've promised yourself a pair of quality leather Italian shoes, try a stroll around one of the weekly markets, where you can get style and quality at a fraction of the cost of the shops.
Aside from the value and range of produce available at the various markets, shopping there is a wonderful tourist experience. The banter and bustle in the main market, held on Wednesdays and Saturdays in and around Piazza Cavour, for example, is a real eye-opener!
Read more about Rimini's different Markets
Arts and Crafts
Romagna is a region fiercely proud of its traditions and history, and one of the expressions of this is the multitude of small, often family run, businesses producing and selling arts and crafts, ranging from distinctive textiles, through to pottery.
For the Kids
Rimini is particularly well-suited to family holidays, and that means that there are plenty of shops specialising in toys/games/clothes for the kids.
Click here for more info on shopping for the kids in Rimini
Shopping Centres
It's not all market stalls and handicrafts, though. Rimini hosts a number of huge shopping centres, that group together a wide variety of shops for convenience. Ideal if a number of you want to shop for presents, but have different tastes.
Click here for more info on Rimini's Shopping Centres
Tax Free Shopping
One option available to tourists staying in Rimini, is a quick trip to the independent Republic of San Marino, a short drive inland from the city. The hill-top Republic has its own very different history and traditions, and is well worth a visit from a cultural point of view, but also adds the bonus that much of the shopping available there is tax free
Click here for more info on tax free shopping in San Marino
Factory Outlets
Most tourists visiting Rimini content themselves with staying in and around their hotel, shopping amongst the multitude of gift shops that line the seafront. Occasionally they may venture into the historic town centre, to sample its designer shops, markets etc. They miss, though, some of the best deals available as a result. Just outside Rimini, in particular on the road to San Marino, for example, there are a wide range of factory outlets open to the public to buy quality goods at wholesale prices.
