This exclusive walking tour will take you through the history of Rome’s greatest fashion brands—Valentino, Fendi, Bulgari, and more—whether you’re a couture connoisseur or simply eager to indulge in an unforgettable fashion experience, this tour is designed to inspire and delight. Let’s walk through the history of Roman Fashion together!
This tour offers a unique perspective on the city’s unparalleled contribution to global fashion. Walking through the very streets where iconic designers built their empires, visiting boutiques that have shaped the history of luxury, and experiencing the essence of Italian elegance firsthand—this is the ultimate journey for fashion lovers.
Rome is not just the Eternal City; it is also a city of elegance, craftsmanship, and unparalleled style. Some of the world’s most iconic fashion houses have their roots here, shaping the essence of Italian luxury. This exclusive walking tour will take you through the history of Rome’s greatest fashion brands—Valentino, Fendi, Bulgari, and more—while also offering the opportunity to explore their flagship stores, learn about their architectural significance, and even indulge in some shopping. This tour is fully customizable, allowing you to dive deeper into fashion archives, visit ateliers, or simply enjoy a stylish break at one of Rome’s historic cafés.
Our journey begins with Valentino, a brand synonymous with timeless elegance and its signature “Valentino red.” The Maison was founded in 1960 by Valentino Garavani, whose designs quickly became the epitome of glamour, worn by celebrities and royals worldwide. The historic Palazzo Mignanelli, near Piazza di Spagna, has been the brand’s headquarters since the 1960s. This majestic building, once a noble residence, now houses the creative heart of Valentino, blending Rome’s aristocratic past with contemporary couture. The brand’s flagship store on Piazza di Spagna, inaugurated in 2015, is a masterpiece of modern design, created by the renowned British architect David Chipperfield. Here, you will witness firsthand how fashion and architecture intertwine to create an immersive luxury experience.
From Valentino, we move to Fendi, the brand that reinvented Roman fashion with its unparalleled craftsmanship in leather and fur. Founded in 1925 as a small fur and leather workshop, Fendi rose to international fame under the creative direction of Karl Lagerfeld, who introduced the now-famous double F logo. The brand’s headquarters is located at Palazzo della Civiltà Italiana, also known as the “Square Colosseum,” an architectural landmark of the EUR district. However, our focus will be on Palazzo Fendi, an elegant Renaissance-style building at Largo Goldoni. More than just a boutique, it houses the exclusive Fendi fur atelier, where expert artisans create bespoke fur pieces. For those who wish, a special experience can be arranged to explore this workshop, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the meticulous craftsmanship that defines Fendi’s legacy.
No exploration of Roman fashion is complete without Bulgari, the house that redefined luxury jewelry with its bold designs and vibrant gemstones. Founded in 1884 by Sotirios Bulgari, the brand became famous for its distinctive mix of classical Roman influences and modern innovation. The historic Bulgari boutique on Via Condotti, which opened in 1905, has been a symbol of refined luxury for over a century. This boutique, visited by Elizabeth Taylor and Audrey Hepburn, remains a must-see for jewelry enthusiasts. One of the highlights of our tour is the exclusive visit to the Bulgari Jewelry Museum, a hidden gem showcasing some of the most exquisite high-jewelry pieces ever created by the maison. This private and exclusive experience is a true feast for the eyes, allowing you to admire one-of-a-kind creations up close.
For those interested in Rome’s rich couture history, an optional visit to the “Archivio Storico delle Sorelle Fontana” can be included. Founded in the 1940s by three sisters—Zoe, Micol, and Giovanna Fontana—this fashion house defined Italian glamour in the post-war era. Dressing Hollywood stars and European royalty, the Sorelle Fontana played a crucial role in making Rome the fashion capital of the world. This archive preserves sketches, dresses, and fascinating anecdotes about the golden age of Italian couture.
No fashion tour would be complete without a stylish break at the legendary Caffè Greco on Via Condotti. Established in 1760, this historic café has been a meeting place for artists, writers, and designers over the centuries. A coffee here is more than just a break—it’s an immersion into Rome’s cultural and artistic heritage.
This tour is not just about fashion history—it’s about experiencing Rome in a way that resonates with your personal style. Whether you wish to explore designer flagships, visit exclusive ateliers, or enjoy a curated shopping session, your itinerary will be tailored to your interests. We can explore the latest collections, hunt for unique pieces, or simply soak in the elegance and history of Rome’s fashion district.
100% refund up to 2 weeks prior to the start of your tour.
50% refund from 2 weeks up to 72 hours prior to the start of your tour.
When canceled less than 72 hours before the start of your tour, we will do our best to reschedule you or issue you a credit to use on any of our upcoming tours. This credit won’t expire until you use it!
I always purchase your tickets in advance (to save any waiting in line) so they are non-refundable.
If you have a medical emergency, or your travel plans change due to unforeseen circumstances, please contact me as soon as possible at hello@ninainrome.com or call me at +39 3314451245. I will work with you to make your time with me as stress-free as possible.
Where do we meet for the tour?
I will provide you with a central meeting point where we can start the tour. You will get full details of the exact location in the confirmation form I will send you upon booking your walking tour.
Will there be a bathroom break or a rest stop during your Street Art & local market tour?
Yes! There will be at least one or two bathroom stops along the way.
How should I dress for the tour?
Please dress in a casual and comfortable way, keeping in mind the different seasons in Rome. I recommend layering regardless of when you visit. Indoor spaces will be heated in the winter and air-conditioned in the summer, so be ready for temperature changes. Bring a hat and sunscreen during the summer.
Can I take pictures during the tour?
Pictures are allowed, with and without flash, throughout the whole itinerary…even selfies with me! ;). Please do share your best ones on Facebook or Instagram!
Is this tour mostly indoors or outdoors?
This tour is mostly outdoors.
Can we find a taxi or ride after the tour?
I’ll show you at the end of the tour where to find the closest taxi stand. If there are no white cabs, app-based services like Uber are available too.
How much do your tours cost?
Pricing varies with each tour. It depends on the number of participants, admission fees, transportation costs and other factors. I will always try to budget the tours to your needs!
How soon should I book?
Some of my guests book many months in advance, some others at the last minute. In general, a few weeks’ notice is wise, especially in the busier months (from May to October).
Are gift certificates available for this tour?
Yes, gift certificates are available for all of my tours!
✔️For those who want the utmost convenience, a private luxury minivan can be arranged, allowing us to cover different areas of the city effortlessly while keeping your hands free from shopping bags.
✔️ Make sure to bring your phone or camera to take amazing pictures!
✔️ Sunscreen and a hat are always highly recommended, especially during the summertime!
✔️ ️I’d recommend wearing a comfy pair of shoes or sneakers!
✔️At the end of the tour, I will love to provide my local recommendations on where to shop or eat in this cool area.
