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One of the reasons Italian vacations are so relaxing is because we allow ourselves to slow down and look at beautiful things. Not only masterpieces in museums, but in shop windows where artisans’ craftsmanship is on display. These handicraft traditions have been passed down for generations. Shopping becomes more than piling up souvenirs. You’re brushing up against history.

Shopping is also your chance to interact with the locals. You may feel pounced upon when you enter a small store and the owner greets you, enthusiastic to help. You’re probably looking at something they’ve made, or a display they spent hours creating. It’s as though you’re a guest in their home. So always ask before you touch.

The magic word for Italian shoppers is saldi (sale). The second weeks of January and July are generally when saldi begin in stores all over Italy. They last a month or so, but you’ll get the best stuff if you show up early. And there are designer outlets all over Italy, where you can score pretty good bargains. Remember we are talking Italy’s top designers, which are marked 50-60% off at these outlets, meaning the Prada wallet that sells for 500 euros will cost you 250 euros.

Bargaining is expected when you’re shopping at outdoor markets. It’s also O.K. to try in a small shop, especially if you’re buying in quantity. I use the tried-and-true bargaining style: carry only small bills, go through the show-interest-then-walk-away-get-called-back routine. A line that rarely fails is: “I wanted to buy this for my mamma…”

However you play the shopping game, savor the experience, whether you walk away with just a memory, a treasure, or both.

TIP: The Mall (www.themall.it), one of Italy’s most popular luxury designer outlets, is easy to reach from Florence via a fifty-minute bus ride that runs regularly from Via Santa Caterina di Siena, near the central train station.

For Vintage Shopping, check out www.modernthrifterintheoldworld.com, the website of Gina Pagnella. Gina is an American living in northern Italy who has turned her passion for vintage into a thriving business. Her blog has lots of great tips and she can customize a shopping tour for you to find treasures.