Via Condotti (Via dei Condotti)

The basics

Fashion-forward Romans and visitors head to Via Condotti, officially Via dei Condotti, to update their wardrobes or get wind of the latest trends at boutiques dedicated to iconic designers like Gucci, Valentino, Armani, Prada, Ferragamo, and Dolce & Gabbana. This chic street is located just off Rome’s famous Piazza di Spagna, and many small-group and private walking tours of the city’s historic center or of its most important squares and fountains include a turn down Via Condotti between stops at nearby highlights like the Trevi Fountain and Pantheon. The neighborhood around Piazza di Spagna and Via Condotti is known for its numerous gelato shops and cafès, so opt for a food tour to add tastings of espresso, pastries, and other local treats to your exploration of Rome’s fashion epicenter.

Things to know before you go

• Via Condotti is relatively short, but the cross streets and roads running parallel to the right and left are also lined with designer shops.
• The street is closed to most traffic, so easy to navigate with a wheelchair or stroller.
• The most exclusive shops have guards at the entrance who turn away shoppers who are informally dressed. Avoid shorts, t-shirts, and flip-flops if you want to browse the boutiques.
• There are a number of bars and cafès along Via Condotti, where you can stop for a snack or drink.

How to get there

The metro line A runs from the Termini train station to Piazza di Spagna, where Via Condotti begins.

When to get there

Most of the boutiques on Via Condotti keep standard business hours, so visit from late morning to early evening to be able to enter. The area is pleasant to stroll through at night, though many of the most luxurious shops empty their windows at closing time to discourage break-ins.

The Landmark Antico Caffè Greco

Rome’s coffee culture is famous, and Antico Caffè Greco (commonly known as simply Caffè Greco) is one of the city's most storied coffee shops, serving artists, musicians, and writers for over 250 years. Luminaries including Keats, Byron, Shelley, Casanova, and Goethe have sipped coffee in the dining rooms, which double as art galleries decorated with works of art created by former patrons.

Ways to explore

This chic street is located just off Rome’s famous Piazza di Spagna, and many small-group and private walking tours of the city’s historic center—or of its most important squares and fountains—include a turn down Via Condotti between stops at nearby highlights, such as the Trevi Fountain and the Pantheon. The neighborhood around Piazza di Spagna and Via Condotti is known for its numerous gelato shops and cafés, too, so opt for a food tour or leave time for tastings of espresso, pastries, and other local treats as you explore Rome’s fashion epicenter.

Accessibility

The street is paved and closed to most traffic, so it’s easy to navigate with a wheelchair or stroller.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Comfortable shoes, small crossbody bag or secure wallet

What to wear

To avoid side-eye in the upscale boutiques, dress smartly—avoid T-shirts and flip-flops.

Not allowed

Some upscale stores may not allow street clothes, large bags, or food or drink inside their establishments.

Amenities

Bars, boutiques, and cafés; public restrooms can be found closer to the Spanish Steps area.

Address

Steps from the Trevi Fountain and the Spanish Steps, Via Condotti is easily accessible, whether you’re on foot, traveling by public transit, or on a tour.

Driving

While technically reachable by car, it’s best not to drive to Via Condotti—it’s smack-dab in Rome’s ZTL (Limited Traffic Zone), where unauthorized vehicles face hefty fines.

Public transportation

This is your best bet. Take metro line A to Spagna station, which exits right near the Spanish Steps at the end of the street. Multiple bus options serve the area, too.

Best times to visit

If you’re looking to shop, most boutiques keep standard business hours, so visit from late morning to early evening.

Best days to visit

Stroll this thoroughfare on weekdays if you’d like more elbow room.

Best months to visit

If you’re looking for deals, try the end of season—late winter or late summer, for example. Otherwise, the fall months of September through November are great for mild temperatures and smaller crowds.

Special events

Via Condotti is one of Rome’s most festive areas during the holiday season, strung with lights all aglow. And this should come as no surprise: The holiday window displays are fabulous.