We’ve shared our favorite vintage shops in the past, but we’ve found a few new gems to add to the list. Here are five of the best vintage designer shops in the city, so next time someone compliments your Versace scarf or Valentino dress you can respond with, “Oh this old thing? I got it in Italy.”

Salvatore Michele Abiti Usati

Via del Governo Vecchio 35

This shop in the center of the city is literally overflowing with treasures. The owners, an older couple, travel all over Italy to find new and unique goods, and their care is obvious in the collection. Sifting through the layers of clothes you’ll find Emilio Pucci dresses, soft cashmere sweaters, racks of silk blouses and fantastic Gucci bags. If you have something specific in mind, they have tons in storage and will be happy to go through more boxes with you. The woman, like a fabulous grandmother, is always good for fashion advice and a second opinion.

Borghetto Flaminio Flea Market

Piazza della Marina, 32
Sundays, 10AM – 7PM
€1.60 entrance fee

Also in the center, just opposite Piazza del Popolo, the Borghetto Flaminio Market is an outdoor vintage and antique market, only open on Sundays. You’ll have to pay to get in, but the €1.60 entry fee is completely worth it. The market isn’t very large or overwhelming, but it’s packed with stalls, so you’re sure to find something you love. You’ll come across racks and racks of clothing, tables of accessories, and even household items. Fendi bags, fur coats and Armani dress shirts fill each stall, and because they’re used, the prices are surprisingly low. The tables of vintage jewelry are worth a stop, if just to marvel at the older costume pieces.

King Size Vintage

via del Boschetto, 94
Facebook page

With two locations, one in San Lorenzo and one in the trendy Monti neighborhood, King Size Vintage is one of the best-priced vintage stores in the city. It’s small, crowded, and you’ll have to do some digging, but that’s the fun part. Full of men and women’s clothing, shoes, and accessories, it’s hard not to find a gem. High-end designer pieces are reasonably priced, but they also have beautiful unnamed clothes along side the well-known labels.

Pifebo Vintage Shop

via dei Serpenti, 141
Website

Also in the Monti neighborhood, this store is the image of what probably comes to mind when you think “vintage.” Evening gloves spill out of old hat boxes, sequined jackets hang in the back, and cowboy shirts and old band t-shirts fill the shelves. It’s like digging through your grandma’s closet, if your grandma happens to have eclectic taste and an eye for exceptional pieces. Make sure to look at the large collection of real leather, worn and soft, yet always classic. They’re constantly getting new products in, so it’s worth stopping back every so often if you’re in the area to check out the new bags and boots.

Twice

via di San Francesco a Ripa, 105
Online store

If you love designer goods, but can’t stand the often-musty smell of vintage shops, and hate sifting through piles of clothes, then Twice, in the Trastevere neighborhood, is for you. The clothes are vintage, but the shop is fresh and modern, and everything is laid out neatly. Clothes are mostly from the 1960s to 1980s, and include men and women’s shoes, accessories, and clothing. The real designer purses here are a steal compared to what you would pay for new versions in the stores. Think vintage Chanel for €175. If you don’t have too much time to shop on your trip, Twice even has online shopping, which is revolutionary for Rome.

The post Shopping in Rome: 5 destinations for vintage designer deals appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

So for each person on your list, be it the foodie or the hopeless lover of Paris, here are some suggestions for places to get inexpensive gifts.

Fashionista

The Marais has no shortage of vintage shops. Hop into the Vintage Désir on rue des Rosiers to rummage through the scarves, belts, or bags for under €10.  Other shops around the Centre Pompidou have all sorts of coats and accessories to explore with items as inexpensive as a few euros.  Mº St-Paul

Foodie

This might seem crazy, but for that special food connoisseur, head to Bon Marché’s Grand Epicerie, a veritable epicurean wonderland.  Normally people think everything in the store is overpriced, but there are cheapo options among the vast selection of locally-roasted coffees, condiments, hot chocolate, and holiday food if you look closely. No need for wrapping paper, either.  Just leave it in the shopping bag and you’ll be sure to impress. Mº Sèvres-Babylone

Inner child

Whimsical meets practical at Pylones, a design store that takes everyday items like ice cream scoops and dust pans and turns them into funky works of art. Take time to explore the whole store since every inch of counter space is filled with plenty of quirky and unique items. Bigger items can be a bit expensive, but most smaller items will still make you smile without spending too much. Check here for locations

Sweet tooth

For that insatiable sweet tooth, skip the chocolates and macarons and head to Epices Roellinger in the 2nd arrondissement.  The metal boxes of salted-butter caramels are only €5 and delicious.  Browse the shop’s spices and vanilla beans in case your sugar fiend likes to cook, too. 51 bis, rue Sainte Anne 75002

French fan

For that Francophile friend that has every possible Parisian item, check out one of the Fragonard shops for something unique but quintessentially French.  Perfumes, soaps, aprons, pillow cases, candles – they’ve got it all.  Consider the mini eau de toilette samples for guys and gals. It’ll cost less than Dior and it’s harder to find in the US. Check here for locations

Intellectual

For true intellectuals or that friend that adheres religious to geek chic, you can’t go wrong with an old fashioned paper book. Gibert Jeune by Place St-Michel has an amazing selection of travel and photo books that anyone will appreciate – even if they are in French. Used books and discount books are available throughout the store, so make sure you hit each floor. Mº St-Michel

Homebody

For someone who likes to stay home or just likes a well-decorated house, try Potiron for inexpensive but adorable home furnishings. Fun glassware, espresso sets, flatware, candles, and decorative boxes can all be bought for very reasonable prices. It’s like a Parisian version of Ikea with much cuter shopping bags. 57, rue des Petits Champs 75001

Can’t buy em anything?

If you have one of those friends who just can’t be bought for, fear not. The flea markets are a delightful alternative for inexpensive gifts from army surplus to decorative boxes and glassware. The weekend market at St-Ouen in the north of Paris is one of the biggest in Europe and is definitely worth a few hours of wandering. Even if they don’t appreciate the gift, you’ll have a great story to tell. Mº Porte de Clignancourt

Give us your suggestions

Who did I leave out, Cheapos? What other gifts can we get without going broke this holiday season? Tell us in our comments section.

The post Paris Gift Guide: Cheapo gift ideas for everyone on your list appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

Here are a few suggestions for spending a fabulous (and Cheapo) day in the Marais:

1. Coffee kick-off

Start your walk out with a coffee at the old-worldly Café Les Philosophes (28, rue Vieille du Temple). The white-apron-clad waiters serve up standard espresso at decent prices. Moreover, the people-watching is amazing.

2. Vintage wears

Next, stroll one block north and turn right onto the rue des Rosiers, a tiny street lined with Kosher eateries, falafel joints, and boutiques.

Stroll past the eateries (for now) until you arrive at the quirky vintage shop called Vintage Désir (32, rue des Rosiers). Men and women can appreciate the many inexpensive vintage clothing options, but be prepared to dig and be elbowed by fashion-forward Frenchies.

Nearby Free ‘P’ Star (8, rue St-Croix de la Bretonnerie) and The King of Frip (33, rue du Roi de Sicile) are some other great alternatives to the pricey boutiques.

3. Falafel break

For cheap eats in the neighborhood, skip the restaurants and indulge in the area’s delicious falafel joints. You might initially scoff at the idea of eating falafel in Paris, but after one bite from famed L’As du Fallafel (34, rue des Rosiers) you’ll agree with Lenny Kravitz (their celebrity patron) that it’s the best in the world. And at only €5, it’s a steal for Paris. When the guy at the counter asks you a question, say, “Oui” – he is asking if you want spicy sauce!

Across the street is Micky’s Deli, a play on the New York deli scene, which offers a burger, fries, and drink for only €8.50.

If you have time for dessert, swing by the legendary Mazet de Montargis (37 Rue des Archives, Marais) for a tasty candy sample. It’s one of our favorite free things to do in Paris.

4. Visiting Victor

For some culture, continue down rue des Rosiers and turn left towards the Place des Vosges, the royal square built under King Henry IV, France’s beloved king. If the quaint park and uniformly beautiful buildings aren’t enough, head over to the Maison de Victor Hugo (6, Place des Vosges). Here the author of the “Hunchback of Notre Dame” and “Les Misérables” lived, and its permanent collection is free to visit. It’s open every day but Monday from 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

5. Time for an aperitif

You must be exhausted — and thirsty! It’s time for an aperitif. Don’t avoid drinking in the Marais simply because you assume that prices will be high. Rather, indulge in the happy hour culture and grab a pint for €3.70 at the Open Café (17, rue des Archives, happy hour from 6-10 p.m.), a gay hotspot that’s also “straight-friendly.”

If you want a more mixed crowd, head over to La Perle (78, rue Vieille du Temple) for an inexpensive glass (or carafe) of wine. The young hipster crowd spills out onto the sidewalk until closing on weekends.

After a cheapo day in the Marais, you’ll be well fed, more cultured, and probably tipsy enough to think that your new vintage hat really does look incredible on you. Hey, it’s the Marais. Anything goes!

Your favorite places in the Marais

Do you have a favorite place to visit in the Marais? Share with us in the comments section!

The post Paris: A Cheapo day in the Marais appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

Vintage dressing in the heartland of trendy London districts has been hot fashion property for quite some time now. Sadly as a result, “vintage” doesn’t always mean “cheap.” However, London is still bursting with secret little finds where one can find jaw droopingly beautiful clothes from yesteryear at reasonable rates.

Begin with a market rummage

From Whitechapel Market, where one can find colorful scarves and sparkly slippers to Portobello Market where there are several first-class vintage shops and stalls, a walk around London’s many markets is well worth your vintage mission. These markets are a good place to start with their decent sampling of high-quality stock, which has a high turnover (important, as it enhances the chances of stumbling on a great find).

Brick Lane is a vintage lovers paradise. Nearby Spitalfields Market, too, offers plenty of punk and vintage stalls along with over-smart designer shops. Camden Market (Tube: Camden Town), London’s traditional home of punks and punk-dom, is worth a visit, as it boasts plenty of vintage clothing stalls and shops.

Just north of Notting Hill tube, along Pembridge Road, there are several vintage shops. If you want real bargains (yes, they are still to be found in this area), you’ll have to make a return visit on a Saturday–it will be worth it. Head up Portobello Road to the market stalls under Westway. The stalls and shops further north and along Golborne Road are even cheaper, although the merchandise is unpredictable.

Here are some other places that boast vintage prices within a mortal’s league. Happy shopping!

Beyond Retro
112 Cheshire St, E2
Telephone: 020 7613 3636
Web site
Tube/Rail: Liverpool St.

Barnado’s
7 George St, W1
Telephone: 020 7935 2946
Web site
Tube/Rail: Marylebone
Hours: Mon-Sat 9.30 a.m.-5:30 a.m.

Marie Curie
318-320 St Paul’s Rd, N1
Telephone: 020 7226 0565
Tube/Rail: Highbury & Islington
Hours: Open Mon-Sat 9 a.m.-5:20 p.m.

TRAID SW2
2 Acre Lane, SW2
Telephone: 020 7326 4330
Web site
Tube/Rail: Brixton

I Dream Of Wires
68a Cheshire St, London E2 6EH
Telephone: 020 7739 4481
Web site
Tube/Rail: Shoreditch High Street

Radio Days, London
87 Lower Marsh, Waterloo
Telephone: 020 7928 0800
Web site
Tube/Rail: Waterloo

The post Vintage Clothing Shops and Markets in London appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

What would you rather take home as a souvenir from Florence? A pair of boxer shorts with the David’s (ahem) jewels printed on the front OR a gorgeous Florentine-made Italian leather handbag from the ’60s?

Ok, I guess that may be a gender-biased question, but is it really that hard of a decision? My best advice if you’re travelling to Florence: snag a souvenir that you can actually use and appreciate for years to come rather than some gimmicky t-shirt!

Better yet, why not get come genuine Italian vintage clothes or accessories? Not only will you find incredible high fashion pieces from historic Florentine houses such as Ferragamo and Gucci but also a slew of no-name cheaper finds that ooze lots of classic Italian style.

Florence has only one real flea market in Piazza dei Ciompi, which unfortunately has become a destitute maze of dusty stalls full of antiques, so if you’re interested in hunting down something a little more titillating try some of these vintage shops in the city center. These stores in particular have personality, helpful staff, reasonable prices and an evident care in the selection of their pieces. So happy hunting!

A Ritroso:
Via Ghibellina 24r

This is my favorite vintage store in the city. Even the intricate ironwork on the door and the graphics for the logo are beautiful! The shop is small but the merchandise, which includes all types of clothing, shoes, and accessories runs of the gamut of style, era and price (from €5 blouses to a stunning €300 dress and cape set).

You’ll probably want to chat with the woman who runs the shop, as she will act as your guide to the exact piece and price range you’re looking for. She’s especially helpful when looking for something in the right size or for that special occasion. Every time I walk in I know I’ll walk out with something irreplaceable.

Pitti Vintage:
Borgo degli Albizi, 72r

On this street in the city center you’ll find quite a few vintage shops that have popped up in the past few years. However skip right past Officina Vintage and their oddly vast offerings of €40 used Converse, and head up to Pitti Vintage.

Formerly located near the Pitti Palace, hence the name, this little shop has recently moved to this new location which is charmingly decorated and offers a larger showroom downstairs. The shop assistant is very sweet and helpful and you’ll find that each item was chosen with care. While most vintage shops only stock womenswear you’ll also find great men’s suits and jackets here. You’ll find that most items like dresses and boots are priced around €50, although there are often racks of items on sale and smaller items such as scarves and handbags can be a great cheapo buy. For a quick taste, check out the website.

The duds at Pitti Vintage, photo by the author

Lady Jane B Vintage Boutique
Via dei Pilastri 32b

This recent addition to the vintage scene, near Piazza Sant’Ambrogio, is another great place to dig around and find something unexpected. The small shop holds a lot of merchandise and has an incredible assortment of leather handbags at very reasonable prices. Again, if you’re having trouble looking for something or have a specific idea or price range, don’t hesitate to ask the staff.

Vintage Selection
Stazione Leopolda

Vintage Selection is a vintage fair that has proved hugely successful in the past few years featuring vintage vendors from Florence and all over Europe selling their wears in a huge warehouse-like space. There is an entry fee of €5 (less if you register first online) but the price is worth it. You’ll find vendors that sell exclusively designer wares, military garments, jewelry and accessories, and even places that sell clothes by the kilogram.

The fair is held in both January and July, although the one held in January generally offers a wider selection of vendors and merchandise. Do bring comfortable shoes as you’ll be walking on concrete and it is helpful if you wear clothing that is easy on/off if you plan to try anything on. You’ll be confronted with makeshift dressing rooms constructed out of sheets and mirrors, so prepare yourself accordingly!

Do you have any other Florence shopping tips? Help your fellow bargain-hunting Cheapos and share them in the comments below!

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