Rome's Best Travel Routes

Shopping in Rome isn’t only about souvenirs—it can also be about style, leather, Italian fashion, or artisanal products you’ll cherish for years. If you live outside the European Union, you’re entitled to claim back part of the value-added tax (IVA) you pay in stores. That means you can save 10–12% on eligible purchases, making that designer bag, handmade shoes, or Murano jewelry just a little easier to justify.

📝 Local Tip: Italians rarely talk about VAT refunds—it’s something only visitors do. But for you, it can be a real saving if you plan wisely.

How It Works

• Minimum spend: €70 in one shop on the same day. Multiple small purchases don’t add up—you need a single receipt.
• Participating shops: Look for the “Tax Free” or “Global Blue” signs in the window. Not all stores participate.
• The form: Ask for the “tax free form” (modulo per il rimborso IVA) at the checkout and present your passport. Without this, you cannot claim later.
• Refund is about 10–12% of the purchase price.
• At the airport, present receipts, passport, and goods at the customs desk before check-in. Items must be unused. ⚠️

⚠️ Watch out: If the shop staff seems unsure, double-check before you buy. Some smaller stores may not handle tax refunds correctly.

Step-by-Step Process

• Shop in stores marked “Tax Free.”
• Request and complete the VAT refund form.
• Keep goods unused until departure.
• Get the form stamped at customs before check-in. 🕒
• Collect refund at the airport desk or kiosk (cash is immediate, credit card takes weeks).

📝 Local Tip: If you are flying Rome → another EU country → home, do the paperwork at your last EU airport, not in Rome.

At the Airport

The real process happens when you leave the EU, usually at Fiumicino or Ciampino. Allow at least 30–45 minutes extra at the airport—queues are common.

• Before check-in: Go to the customs desk (dogana) with your receipts, goods, and passport. Items must be unused. Customs officers may ask to see them.
• Stamp it: They stamp your tax free form. No stamp, no refund.
• Refund desk: After security, head to the tax refund counter (Global Blue, Planet, or Premier Tax Free). You can choose cash (instant, but slightly reduced) or refund to your credit card (takes weeks, but usually the full amount).

📝 Local Tip: If you’re flying Rome → another EU country → your home, do the paperwork at your final EU departure point.

Duty Free Shopping

After clearing security, you’ll also see Duty Free shops. These are different from VAT refunds—they simply sell products without taxes. Alcohol, perfume, and cosmetics are usually cheaper than in the city, but fashion and electronics rarely are. Compare prices before you buy.

• After security, you’ll find duty free shops with alcohol, cosmetics, and luxury goods.
• Prices are sometimes better than in the city for perfumes or wine, but not always for fashion or electronics.
• Compare before you buy.

⚠️ Watch out: Refund counters at Fiumicino can have long lines. Arrive early if you plan to claim VAT.

📝 Local Tip: The most stylish Romans carry small shopping bags from leather workshops, not just luxury brands. If you’re tempted by a big purchase, consider local artisans—your refund will still apply, and you’ll bring home something unique.