Carthusia di Capri-Perfume from the Middle Ages

According to legend, in 1380 the monks at the Carthusian monastery on Capri accidentally created a gorgeous perfume from the dregs of water left in a vase full of Caprese wildflowers. Centuries later the formula for the perfume was rediscovered and Carthusia, I Profumi di Capri, was established. The scents today are still made by hand according to the centuries-old methods and each fragrance is hand-bottled as well. Be sure to stop by the shop and factory when you are visiting Capri. Not only will the scents delight your nose, but you can feast your eyes on the beautiful view of the Tyrrhenian Sea while you shop.

Most Romantic Shopping in Rome

With the economy in trouble at home and the US dollar so weak abroad, shopping in Italy has got to be about more than just the goods. It's got to be about the experience as well. Rome is full of interesting and picturesque shopping opportunities for your honeymoon or vacation. Of course, for big spenders there are the shops near the Piazza di Spagna. Granted, there are Prada stores in all the world-class cities, but when someone compliments you on your shoes or handbag, it will be much more fun to say "Thanks! I got it in Rome!"And if you are in Rome in July or January, you can take advantage of the Saldi (sales). If you are in the market for antiques, there are several options. For antique books and prints, head to the Piazza Fontanella Borghese for an open-air antiquarian market. Not only will you find works in print, but you will also encounter rare coins, stamps and even jewelry. If you are budget-conscious, any one of the city's flea markets will suit your fancy. The Porta Portese is the largest market in Rome and there you can find any number of second-hand goods from all over the world. Be prepared to sort through some questionable items and to haggle once you've found what you're looking for! (Click here for more on Rome's open-air markets). For more expensive and larger options-be aware that shipping costs can be pretty steep-head to the Via del Babuino near Piazza di Spagna. You'll find countless shops filled with elegant antique furniture, paintings and china. Even if you don't buy anything, strolling down the street with your loved one while perusing beautiful old Italian goods will certainly feel romantic. The Modern Traveler's favorite shopping experience is always Santa Maria Novella, the Florentine perfume shop near Piazza Navona. The profumeria is over 500 years old and the original scent was created for Catherine de Medici. What could be more romantic than buying perfume?
Readers: What's your favorite shopping experience in Rome?

Santa Maria Novella Profumeria

Established in the 17th century in Florence, Santa Maria Novella is one of the oldest perfumeries in the world. Its signature scent was created for Catherine de Medici. Located on Corso del Rinascimento #47 near Piazza Navona in Rome (and just off the Piazza Santa Maria Novella in Florence) the shop is filled with the most delicious, beautifully-packaged scents. The women who work in the store are adorable and so helpful in both Italian and English. Try the violetta and mughetto (lily) perfumes (the two are even better together) and the pomegranate soap.