Outdoor markets are my thing so whenever traveling abroad, I seek them out. It's so much fun to see…read morethe various types of fresh fruit and veggies available, many unique varieties. There was a type of radicchio I'd never seen before. And so many olives! But it's also challenging because you are limited in what and how much you can. It unless you are staying at a VRBO.
Same with all of the olive oils, aged balsamic vinegars, pesto, jarred tomatoes, olives, regional pastas, meats and cheeses. OMG, I wanted it all! Since I love to cook and mostly cook Italian, it was pure torture! I did buy Parmigiana Reggiano aged 60 months because the taste and price was too good to pass up. But I didn't have room in my suitcase - weight wise - to buy the olive oil, aged balsamic and other food items I wanted.
They had the typical tourist souvenirs like scarves, aprons, ceramic bowls, and a wonderful assortment of olive wood charcuterie boards and serving utensils. I collect them but didn't buy any because the prices were the same or higher than what I find at Trader Joe's or Marshall's! And again, too heavy to lug back to the states especially if they aren't unique or a fabulous price.
There was even a stall selling a vegetable spiralizer like you see on late night tv commercials. He was demonstrating the plastic gadget and crowds were lined up watching. Cracked me up! Did you pick up any treasures while in a Rome? Yes, a plastic veggie spiralizer!
Prices of many items were the same or higher than the shops. For example, a tiny bottle of 20 year old aged balsamic was $22 but $18 in a shop so know your prices and definitely try to barter.
Mercato Campo de Fiori is located in a bustling area of the city so after shopping the market, you can stop in other shops and boutiques on all of the side streets. There are plenty of leather, clothing, jewelry, and stores selling ceramics and food products plus cafes and restaurants in abundance.
