(Zoo, 50/2 Strada Maggiore, 333 440 5692) Delicious cakes and pastries, illustrated books about animals and, best of all, hand-made clothing that can be customised for that personal touch, together make up Zoo. Established in late February to combine three pre-existing companies, this quirky store is worth seeking out.

Unusual ceramic items that may be useful, but always make a statement, are sold at Crete Pièce Unique. The location is the former Jewish ghetto area, nowadays home to numerous craft studios (3B Via de Giudei, cretepieceunique.it).

At her workshop in Bologna's ex-ghetto district, Daniela makes beautiful engraved prints. Her city scenes make wonderful souvenirs, while the limited-edition calendars are collectors' items (La Tarlatana, 1C Via De' Giudei 1C, latarlatana.it).

Picturesque deli Tamburini is a local institution and a must-see for visitors to Italy's foodie capital. Fresh pasta, hams and sausages are among the specialities. If you're feeling peckish you can even eat here too (1 Via Caprarie, tel: 051 234726, tamburini.com).