The first time I went to Venice, I was overwhelmed with the amount of “tourist tat” (cheap, tacky souvenirs) on what felt like every calle (street) and along those picturesque canals. While Venice remains one of the most enchanting cities I’ve ever visited in Italy, its rich history and timeless beauty can sometimes feel at odds with the endless rows of souvenir stands selling cheap t-shirts and mass-produced plastic Venetian masks.

Every day, around 15,000 visitors enter the city of Venice, with numbers soaring past 100,000 in peak summer! Yet, to this day, 50,000 residents still call this historic city home. Many of them are working to preserve the centuries-old tradition of craftsmanship that has made Venice a world-renowned center for artistry. Venice has been the center of creativity since its inception, with wealthy patrons like the Doges commissioning grand palaces, churches, and masterpieces that shaped its cultural legacy. But where can you find these artisans in a city overflowing with touristy souvenir stalls? The good news is that incredible local shops still exist if you know where to look. On my last trip, I sought them out and put together this guide to the best artisan shops in Venice. From affordable finds to unique treasures, all sorted by neighbourhood, there is something in this guide for every budget and every interest!




Map of Hidden Shopping Spots in Venice
Cannaregio
Plum Plum Creations
Plum Plum Creations is a charming studio tucked away in a quiet corner of Cannaregio, offering a rare insight into the centuries-old art of Venetian printmaking. This charming studio is where traditional printmaking techniques like etching, linocutting, and watercolour come to life. Arianna, the artist behind each piece, puts her soul into her work, drawing inspiration from both the famous sights and the quieter, lesser-known corners of Venice. Inside, you’ll find a selection of prints, paintings, and postcards, each meticulously crafted and perfect for taking home a unique piece of Venice’s artistic soul.
Sullaluna Libreria
Sullaluna Libreria is the kind of place you’ll never want to leave. This independent bookstore is a cozy little shop where the shelves are crammed with a delightful mix of illustrated children’s books in both Italian and English, guides on Venetian history, and fantastically handpicked selections of poetry and art. It’s the perfect spot for any book lover seeking a piece of Venice that isn’t wrapped in glossy tourist brochures. Once you’ve found the ideal book to get lost in, you can sit at one of their tables inside or along the canal and enjoy a coffee to make for the perfect morning activity.



Despar Teatro Italia
Tucked behind the historic neo-Gothic stone façade, which looks more like a museum than a grocery store, you’ll find a hidden gem in Venice: a Despar supermarket! It might sound odd to recommend a grocery store for unique souvenirs, but I’ve found that these shops often offer the best deals on iconic edible mementos. Here, you can wander through the aisles and pick up some of the best souvenirs you’ll find at an Italian supermarket, like biscotti in beautiful reusable tins, Nutella-filled cookies, local wines, unique pasta shapes, creamy Arborio rice, and, of course, rich Italian coffee.

What makes this one even more remarkable is its setting. Located inside the Teatro Italia, a building some have called “the most beautiful grocery store in the world,” shopping here is an experience. Once a popular silent film cinema, the theatre eventually closed as cinema technology evolved and was transformed into this supermarket. Thankfully, the building’s history hasn’t been lost, with original features like the Allegory of the Glory of Italy still gracing the ceiling, making a trip here feel like stepping into a piece of Venice’s past while picking up some of the city’s most delicious treats.



G. Benevento
This century-old textile shop, established in 1883, has been passed down through four generations and stands as one of the 15 longest-running businesses in the Veneto region! Inside, you’ll find an impressive selection of fabrics, from silk and cotton to satin, linen, yarn, and wool. Venice’s fabric history is closely linked to its influence as a cultural and economic hub during the Middle Ages and Renaissance. The city’s strategic location as a trade hub allowed it to import exotic silks and cotton. These materials were woven into luxurious textiles like brocades, velvets, and damasks, prized for their intricate patterns and rich designs. Venetian velvet, especially, became famous for its opulence, often used by royalty and the elite.
Today, fabric shops like G. Benevento continue to carry on the city’s rich legacy of textile artistry, offering fabrics that echo the high-quality, luxurious textiles for which Venice was once known. The store carries everything from bedsheets and bedspreads to towels, pillowcases, and kitchen textiles, all available in both traditional patterns and modern designs. They also produce handcrafted items, such as shoes, bags, cushions and fans, all made with their prestigious fabrics. It’s not just a fabric shop; it’s a place where the city’s centuries-old tradition of textile craftsmanship is woven into every thread.
Gianni Basso Stampatore
Gianni Basso Stampatore is a hidden gem where the ancient crafts of printing and bookbinding are still alive and thriving. Gianni Basso, the master printer behind it all, continues a family legacy, creating stunning custom invitations, fine art prints, and high-quality stationery. Venice has a rich history in printmaking that dates back to the late 15th century when it became a key center for the new printing press technology. The city’s printing industry flourished with figures like Aldus Manutius, who revolutionized typography and made classical works widely accessible. Today, workshops like Gianni Basso Stampatore continue this tradition, preserving time-honoured techniques.
Libreria Miracoli
Libreria Miracoli is a treasure trove of literary gems, vintage posters, old postcards, and various books in various languages. This unpretentious shop, with books stacked to the ceiling, offers a peaceful escape and a rare glimpse into the literary soul of the city. Venice has a long and storied literary history, dating back to its emergence as a major center of trade, culture, and intellectual exchange during the Renaissance. Influential writers and poets, including Marco Polo, whose The Travels of Marco Polo offered a unique glimpse into Asia, and Pietro Bembo, whose work helped shape the Italian language. Renaissance poet Vittoria Colonna made her mark, as did Thomas Mann, whose Death in Venice immortalized the city. You never know which of these beloved authors you’ll find hidden here at Libreria Miracoli.
Oro e Disegni
Stefania Dei Rossi’s enchanting shop, Oro e Disegni, invites you into a world where art and craftsmanship beautifully intertwine. This exceptional atelier specializes in the creation of stunning art pieces that combine gold leaf and graphite, resulting in contemporary masterpieces that capture the eye and ignite the imagination. Stefania’s thought-provoking designs delve into universal themes, offering a delicate and introspective perspective. With collections that include luxurious gold-embellished glassware and intricate pencil drawings, each visit promises to be a journey into artistry that you won’t want to miss.
Studio Saòr
Studio Saòr was founded by a group of creative architects and urban planners whose shop and studio specializes in bespoke illustrations that capture Venice’s lesser-known architectural details and urban landscapes. The shop features a collection of notebooks, prints and stationery featuring designs which manage to blend bright, fresh and modern aesthetics with Venetian nostalgia. These aren’t just pieces of stationary; they are pieces of art that inspire a fresh perspective on Venice
San Polo
Rialto 79
Venice is choc-o-block with stores featuring Murano glass jewelry, and for a good reason, this iconic, centuries-old craft has been a hallmark of Venetian artistry, celebrated for its vibrant colours, intricate designs, and unmatched craftsmanship for ages. But when you see shop after shop selling the same thing, you begin to wonder if any real Venetian craftspeople are still working in the city today. Thankfully, there are, and Rialto 79 is one of them. This shop is committed to designing pieces that honour Venice’s heritage but reinterpreting it in modern, fresh ways.
Damocle Edizioni
Damocle Edizioni is a captivating independent bookshop that feels more like a fusion of a bookstore and an art gallery. It offers a carefully curated selection of rare literary works, including limited editions and hard-to-find books, each one a piece of art in its own right. Many of the books are hand-stitched and printed using traditional techniques, showcasing the meticulous craftsmanship that defines the shop. The vintage printing press on-site brings these works to life, producing unique treasures that are as much about the art of the book as the words inside.

Il Pavone
Il Pavone, a delightful stationery shop, is the creation of Paolo Pelosin, a master artisan who has been handcrafting paper products for over 30 years. The shop offers beautifully crafted notebooks, hand-coloured papers, silk scarves, and unique stationery items. Each one was made using Paolo’s dedication to his craft. Every piece, from vibrant paper-covered wastepaper baskets to exquisite notebooks, is an exceptional work of art, handmade with art and creativity.
Ocio!
Ocio! shop stands out against the rest of the repetitive tourist shops in Venice due to the fact that here you can find unique, artistic pieces, no mass-produced trinkets, made by local artists from Venice, Milan, and the surrounding region. You can find everything from colourful porcelain coffee cups to creative bags, jewelry, and home decor items, with a selection here that is always changing. The shop’s owner, Sophie, adds a personal touch with her warm welcome and helpful service.
Livy Wine
If you’re searching for a perfect bottle of wine to savour yourself or share with loved ones, Livy Wine is a must-visit for any wine enthusiast. Established in 1420, this charming shop is staffed by friendly, knowledgeable experts eager to offer personalized recommendations and share fascinating stories behind each bottle. Keep an eye out for the DOC stamp, a mark of quality on local wines made from ingredients grown right here in the Veneto region. And if you’re in the mood for a quick sip back at your hotel, they even have a selection of chilled wines ready to enjoy on the go!


Vintageria Venezia
If you love vintage treasures, Vintageria Venezia will be right up your street! Inside this hidden little shop, tucked away off the canals, is a mix of antique accessories, retro clothing, timeless jewelry, and classic collectibles. It’s like stepping back in time, where every piece has a story to tell and, thankfully, all at very reasonable prices, often a rarity in Venice!

Charity Shop – T.I.B.E.R.I.A.D.E.
I often wondered, where do the locals shop in Venice? Surely, they look for more than just souvenirs and expensive brand names. T.I.B.E.R.I.A.D.E. is the answer. Charity shops like this are the soul of any city, offering a constantly changing selection of treasures as locals clear out their storage rooms to make space for new items. Every visit promises a chance to uncover a unique gem. Keep in mind that the shop is cash only, but with such affordable prices, you won’t need much to treat yourself to something truly special.

San Marco
Angolo Fiorito
Whenever I stay in a city for more than a few days, one of the first things I do is visit a local florist to buy a bouquet. Even the simplest hotel room feels brighter with a fresh arrangement! And Angolo Fiorito is THE spot to find carefully arranged bouquets of seasonal flowers, ranging from delicate roses to vibrant lilies, all artfully combined with lush greenery. The shop, which feels like a secret garden in the middle of the city, is in a quiet corner. The flowers come spilling out the door, making even passing by almost impossible without walking away with a bouquet!

Piedàterre
Piedàterre are the true pioneers and modern specialists of the authentic Venetian slipper, the Friulana. The Friulana slipper originated in the Friuli region of northern Italy in the late 19th century, created out of necessity after the war. Local families repurposed materials like velvet curtains and bicycle tires to craft functional and stylish footwear. The slippers quickly gained popularity in Venice for their comfort, practicality, and ability to navigate the city’s cobblestone streets.
Piedàterre began as a cart on the Rialto Bridge and became a renowned store dedicated to these iconic slippers. Today, the brand is a symbol of la dolce vita, with slippers made from natural cotton velvet and hand-stitched by Italian artisans, continuing to be a timeless symbol of Italian craftsmanship. These shoes don’t come cheap, but there is a certain allure in owning a piece of Venetian craftsmanship that carries decades of tradition, artistry, and timeless elegance.

Il Papiro
In an era when junk journaling has become a popular way to capture travel memories, Il Papiro stands out as one of the best destinations for a beautiful selection of stationery, journals, and decorative paper items. Epitomizing Italian excellence in hand-decorated paper, Il Papiro employs traditional 17th-century techniques such as paper marbling and xylography, preserving the enduring artisan traditions of this historic city.
The Merchant Of Venice
If you’re looking for a perfume that truly captures the essence of Venice, The Merchant of Venice is the place to go. This luxury fragrance brand is inspired by the city’s deep-rooted connection to the ancient art of perfumery, which flourished thanks to Venice’s role as a major trade hub. The scents here are designed around the historic Mude, the maritime trade routes that once linked Venice to ports across Asia, Africa, and Northern Europe. These connections brought rare spices, exotic flowers, and precious ingredients to the city, fueling a famous perfume tradition across European royal courts. Venetian artisans, known as Muschieri (perfumers) and Saoneri (soap makers), developed unique techniques that made their creations some of the most sought-after in the world.
A visit to their San Marco boutique is a feast for the senses. The space exudes old-world Venetian luxury, with deep red and gold accents that create a warm, opulent atmosphere. Elegant glass display cases showcase exquisitely crafted perfume bottles, many inspired by Murano glass, blending artistry with tradition.

Alessandra Venezia
If you’ve been eyeing a pair of Furlane shoes but found the prices at Piedàterre a bit steep, Alessandra Venezia is a fantastic alternative. This boutique offers beautifully crafted Venetian slippers, once favoured by gondoliers, in a variety of rich velvets and intricate jacquard fabrics, each pair showcasing true Venetian craftsmanship. Personally, I found the designs here even more creative than at Piedàterre, perfect if you’re looking for something a little more bold and modern at more affordable prices. If you love unique patterns and a touch of extravagance, this is definitely the place to check out!
Dorsoduro
Signor Blum
Walking through the quiet streets of Dorsoduro, I stumbled upon this little shop that looked straight out of a storybook! Inside, colourful wooden creations, a handcrafted blend of wooden puzzles and decorations, lined all the shelves. Signor Blum (aka Mr. Blum) opened the shop here in 1978, and today, the next generation carries the tradition of creating these adorable creations. Although some of the toys might look like they are only for children, the wooden puzzles featuring iconic sights in Venice honestly make for such incredible decorations to bring home that you can feel good about buying from a local artisan.
Pastor Saverio Le Forcole
In Venice, the traditional forcola is a highly specialized version of an oarlock, uniquely designed for Venetian rowing. Unlike standard oarlocks, the forcola is asymmetrical and sculptural, allowing gondoliers and other rowers to adjust their grip and rowing angle depending on speed, maneuvering, and water conditions. Made from beautifully carved hardwood, it is a functional tool and a piece of Venetian craftsmanship. Saverio Pastor, a master artisan, has spent decades preserving this tradition, carefully shaping each piece from walnut, cherry, pear, and maple wood. And in his workshop in Dorsoduro you can find miniature forcoles, perfect for those wanting to take home a piece of Venice’s maritime heritage. He even sells wooden bookmarks of the various Forcole designs, so even if you only have a carry-on, you can still take home one of these collector items.
Casin Dei Nobili Showroom
Alright, let’s get one thing straight. I cannot stand the cheap, mass-produced plastic masks cluttering every souvenir stall in Venice. But the real, handcrafted Venetian masks? Those are a different story. Their artistry and history are woven into the very fabric of this city. Venetian masks date back to the Middle Ages when the city was a hotbed of gambling, secret affairs, and shady political dealings. From the 13th to the 16th century, masks became essential for anyone who didn’t want to get caught in the wrong place with the wrong people. They were worn at lavish parties, feasts, and gambling houses, offering a cloak of anonymity in a city where indulgence was everywhere. Even when Napoleon banned mask-wearing in the late 18th century, the tradition never truly disappeared. And when Venice revived its Carnival celebrations in the late 20th century, the art of mask-making came back to life.
With all this history, avoiding mask shops altogether would be a shame because the Venetian mask practically symbolizes the city. The trick is finding the real thing. One of the best places to do that is Casin dei Nobili Showroom, an authentic Venetian workshop where skilled artisans still create meticulously handcrafted masks, each with a distinct style and character. If you want a mask representing Venetian tradition, this is the place to go.
Castello
Arzanart Paper Studio
Walking by the windows outside Arzanàrt, you won’t be able to pass by, as the vibrant swirls of colour seem to create a mesmerizing trance that inviters you inside. Founded by Isabella and Federico, the studio preserves this centuries-old craft, with each piece created using traditional marbling techniques, where colours are floated on water and carefully manipulated before being transferred onto paper. The result is a bewitching fusion. Beyond their stunning marbled paper, Arzanàrt offers handcrafted journals, albums, decorative boxes, and even paper jewelry, all featuring their signature patterns.
Artefact Mosaic Studio
One of the highlights of my latest trip was discovering Artefact Mosaic Studio, a hidden gem where ancient craftsmanship meets contemporary design. Founded by master mosaicists Romuald Mesdagh and Alessandra Di Gennaro, both graduates of the prestigious Scuola Mosaicisti del Friuli, the studio is dedicated to preserving and evolving the art of Italian mosaics. Their work, created with Murano glass and carefully selected marbles, showcases both precision and artistry. While they specialize in custom commissions, the shop also offers beautiful mosaic jewelry, allowing visitors to take home a small yet stunning piece of this centuries-old craft. If you appreciate true Venetian artistry, this is a must-visit.


Trilly Collezioni Esclusive
As a book lover, I couldn’t resist stepping into Trilly Collezioni Esclusive when I spotted the miniature libraries displayed in the window. This charming shop is known for its handcrafted artistic pieces, including traditional papier-mâché masks and marbled paper gifts, but the real highlight for me was their one-of-a-kind miniature bookshelves. Each one is uniquely styled, with some featuring carved busts of famous writers, while others are decorated with tiny mirrors, perfume bottles, and intricate details. No two are alike, making it easy to find the perfect little library that matches your personality!
Bottega Girani Caffè
Italians are famous for their coffee, so why not bring a taste of Venice home with you? Bottega Girani Caffè, a family-run artisanal coffee roaster since 1928, is the perfect place to pick up high-quality beans to relive those dreamy Venetian mornings. Their signature “Fassina” blend, a carefully crafted mix of nine premium Arabica varieties, was developed in collaboration with a legendary Venetian bartender, making it a true local favourite. Whether you’re a coffee connoisseur or just looking for a delicious souvenir, this historic roastery is a must-visit.
Cera una Volta
When I first glanced into the windows of Cera una Volta, I thought I had stumbled upon a party shop. It took me a full minute to realize that the macarons, panettone, cakes, and fruit I admired weren’t desserts; they were candles made entirely of wax! The name Cera una Volta, meaning Once Upon a Time, couldn’t be more fitting for a shop that feels like stepping into a fairy tale. Each candle is meticulously handcrafted by skilled Italian artisans, depicting everything from sweets to flowers, Venetian masks, sea creatures, and more. The hardest part isn’t choosing which to buy; it’s finding the courage to burn such a beautiful piece of art!
Shopping in Venice isn’t just about souvenirs; it’s about discovering the city’s rich artisan traditions and taking home something truly special. From handcrafted Venetian masks and intricately marbled paper to one-of-a-kind jewelry and artisanal coffee, these hidden gems offer a glimpse into the creativity and craftsmanship that still thrive beyond the tourist traps.
The key to finding shops that aren’t just run-of-the-mill tourist traps is taking your time to wander the quiet streets and let Venice surprise you! You never know what hidden gem you’ll uncover next.
Happy Travels, Adventurers







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