My shopping adventure around World Showcase at Epcot is now past the halfway point. You may recall I’ve been highlighting the unique shops and products found throughout each pavilion. This month, I fell in love with the graceful beauty of Italy Pavilion.
At the entrance to Italy Pavilion stands a replica of St. Mark’s campanile (or bell tower) and a recreation of Doge’s Palace. It’s an iconic sight from across World Showcase lagoon that immediately transports you to Venice. The back of the pavilion is home to several delicious dining options, including Via Napoli and Tutto Italia Ristorante, among others. The statue of Neptune is a popular spot for group photos (I have many from my visits to the pavilion). I also love the Carretto Siciliano that was previously discussed on the Disney Parks Blog in 2011.
The shops of Italy Pavilion include Il Bel Cristallo that’s home to exquisite Italian wares including Murano glass, jewelry, chic handbags, clothing and accessories. This shop also carries fragrances by Prada, Acqua di Parma, Bvlgari and Valentino.
In La Bottega Italiana, guests will find cookware, decorative items, Italian foodstuffs and apparel. The wine shop – Enoteca Castello – located next door offers an incredible select of Italian wines and spirits.
In addition to other World Showcase Pavilions, these shops have a variety of Italian products. There are some items created especially for Italy Pavilion including apparel (the “That’s Amore” shirt withMickey and Minnie Mouse is adorable) and drinkware. There was also a recent line of products inspired by Walt Disney’s “Pinocchio.”
I love getting chocolate from this pavilion that’s sold either individually or as gift sets. My other favorite items are found in La Gemma Elegante. This shop is adjacent to Il Bel Cristallo and carries dazzling, handmade Venetian masks.
You may be able to order select items from this pavilion using the free Shop Disney Parks mobile app. To download, please visit DisneyWorld.com/Shop.
Take a look at several other products I found during my visit. Ciao!