6 Best Shopping in Sicily, Italy

Beginning behind the Fontana Amenano at the corner of Piazza Duomo and spreading westward between Via Garibaldi and Via Transito, this is one of Italy's most memorable markets. It's a feast for the senses, with ricotta, fresh produce, endless varieties of meats, thousands of just-caught fish (some still wriggling), plus a symphony of vendor shouts to fill the ears. The market is at its best in early morning and finishes up around 1 pm. It's open every day except Sunday.

Owners Filippo and Jelena welcome shoppers into their well-stocked enoteca as if they are inviting friends into their home. In this little spot just outside the city center, they stock one of the area's best selections of Etna and Sicilian wines as well as boutique amari, Etna-distilled gins, and a whole wall of sparkling wine. Rely on their expertise to navigate the offerings. The couple knows every bottle in the shop and never tries a gratuitous upsell. 

For a more pop art take on traditional Sicilian ceramics, visit Folk, a little boutique and gallery run by artist Magda Masano. You'll find iconic ceramic pinecones and teste di Moro (a ubiquitous pair of heads) in vibrant colors such as emerald green, lilac, or turquoise. Additionally, there are kitchenwares like plates, spoon rests, and cheese boards, all made of lava stone.

The selection of almond-based delights here may be small, but everything is fresh and phenomenally good. Ask for boxes of mixed cookies by weight, add in some marzipan treats dedicated to Catania's patron, Sant'Agata, and enjoy the grab-bag selection at your leisure later. International shipping is available. This is the original and most historic location, but other stores can be found on Via San Giuseppe la Rena and Piazza Mancini Battaglia.

The brainchild and passion project of a former graphic designer, Uau sells handmade leather bags with a bit of whimsy. Look for clutches inspired by old coin purses, slim backpacks in nature-inspired prints, and bold shoulder bags—the whole line wouldn't be out of place in a Tim Burton film. 

First opened in 2019, this Catanesi-owned shop and clothing line embraces body positivity. So much so, they abandoned all traditional sizes and instead offer five unique fits. Constucted with an eye on sustainability, the clothes are made of all natural, vegetal fabrics. And the owners work with local women artisans to highlight their hand-crafted accessory wares (like necklaces and purses) within the shop.