Shopping

Generally shops open from 9am to around 1pm and 3:30pm to 7:30pm Monday to Saturday; most shops are closed on Monday mornings and all day Sunday.
Opening and closing hours vary from town to town.
The Italian Government offers to non-residents of the EU. a cash refund of the tax paid on purchases of 154.94 euros or more in one shop in one day. The tax, called IVA is usually 20% and is included in the purchase price. Goods must be purchased at stores with the sign "tax-free for tourists". Ask for a store receipt plus tax-free receipt. At the airport, go to the customs office. After examining the items, they will put a stamp on the receipt that you can mail for a refund. For additional information, contact Global Refund at 800-566-9828 or visit their web site at
www.globalrefund.com