Rome is an integral part of Italy tours for many different reasons. The capital city appeals to everyone from history buffs to art enthusiasts, and even if you just spend the day visiting some of its many fountains, you'll certainly leave feeling fulfilled. Bargain hunters will find Rome especially appealing thanks in large part to the famous Porta Portese flea market, where they will likely leave having found a great deal.
The flea market is hosted every Sunday morning from 6:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. in one of the city's most historic areas. The gates surrounding the market date back to 1640s and its location in the Trastevere neighborhood places it among narrow cobbled streets and Medieval homes that lend a unique charm to the weekly event.
As for the market itself, there's surely something for everyone. A trip to Porta Portese offers the chance to visit as many as 4,000 different vendors who sell everything from traditional flea market souvenirs to more useful goods. Perhaps most popular is the market's antiques section, which has likely yielded its fair share of impressive finds over the years. Plus, if you're good at bartering, chances are you can find yourself plenty of good deals if you know where to look.
However, as is the case with most forays into foreign culture, there are a few things to consider when visiting the Porta Portese flea market. Experts warn that street markets are where pickpockets tend to do the most damage, so it's important for visitors to be vigilant when making their way through the crowds.
