More typical Venetian drinks, fewer tourist traps. The latter is the slogan we'll carry throughout the content. Yes, because that's what we're talking about: what to drink in Venice to the best local.
Dear traveler, Venice awaits you with its glittering canals, timeless beauty and... its signature drinks!
But beware: La Serenissima is as generous as it is full of tourist traps, especially when it comes to raising your glasses. So before you order a random cocktail in St. Mark's Square (spoiler: it will cost more than a work of art at the Guggenheim), read this guide.
In this content edited by Venice Insider Guide, you will discover:
- What are the real Venetian drinks, alcoholic and non-alcoholic.
- The best cocktails to try (spoiler: the Venetian Spritz is king!).
- How to distinguish an authentic experience from tourist overkill.
- And, of course, what to drink in Venice to experience the unique atmosphere of the lagoon.
Ready to discover the Venice drink? Get out your notepad, or better yet, your goblet: here we go!
What to drink in Venice, Italy?
The first rule for drinking in Venice is: avoid the usual knowns if they are not made to perfection. Here you drink not just for taste, but for tradition, culture and a touch of lagoon magic.
So, to the question what to drink in Venice Italy, we recommend the drinks you absolutely must try:
1. Venetian Spritz: the classic of classics
If you say Venice, you say Spritz. The Venetian Spritz is more than a drink: it is an institution. Three main versions:
Aperol Spritz: sweet, citrusy and bright orange. The most famous, but watch out: it's the most touristy.
Campari Spritz: more assertive and bitterish, ideal for those who like strong flavors.
Select Spritz: the true Venetian, born right here. More complex, aromatic, and exclusive.
Spritz is served with an olive and often accompanied by cicchetti, the small Venetian appetizers.
2. Bellini: the sweetness of fruit and Prosecco
Created at Harry's Bar in the 1940s, the Bellini is a mix of white peach puree and Prosecco. Fresh, refined and perfect for toasting while watching the sunset over the Grand Canal. If you want to try it authentic, go where it was born-no one else can beat the original.
3. "Ombra" and cicchetti
Et voilà, a true local experience: ombra, a glass of white or red wine served in bacari (Venetian osterias), accompanied by cicchetti. This tradition has deep roots: “ombra” means “shadow of wine,” because the vendors of old used to move to keep the drink cool under the shadow of St. Mark's bell tower.
Venetian Drinks: More must-try
What are some Venetian drinks? Not just Spritz and Bellini! Venice is full of liquid surprises. The answer to doubt what to drink in Venice continue because there is so much to discover.
Here are all of them below.
1. Sgroppino
A refreshing cocktail made with lemon sorbet, vodka and Prosecco. Perfect to end a dinner party or as an interlude on a summer day.
2. Cynar Spritz
A lesser-known variation of the Spritz, prepared with Cynar, an artichoke-based liqueur. Bitter, but surprisingly pleasant.
3. Typical venetian liqueurs
Try artisanal grappa, perhaps flavored with local herbs, or limoncello from nearby Veneto, perfect after a hearty meal.
Venetian Drink: The best
If you really have to choose just one (but why do that?), the Venetian Spritz with Select is the winner. It is authentic, has a story to tell, and is the perfect balance of sweetness and bitterness.
Best Venice Drinks: The top 3
We have selected the 3 best Venice drinks.
Spritz (Select): the undisputed king between bests Venice drinks.
Bellini: for a touch of class among Venice drinks.
Ombra (wine glass: that's what they say among Venetians): for an authentic Venetian experience.
Venice Drink: Authentic or tourist?
Locals go to bacari, where you can get an ombra or a Spritz at honest prices (around 3-5 euros). Tourists? They make the mistake of sitting in St. Mark's Square, where a drink can cost up to 25 euros. Sure, the view is priceless, but your wallet will weep.
So, the question on everyone's mind is: Venice drink is authentic or tourist, and where to find the best ones?
Venice Cocktail: The classics to discover
In addition to the must-tries, there are Venetian cocktails worth exploring:
Negroni Sbagliato: created in Milan, but beloved in Venice. The lighter version of the classic Negroni, with Prosecco instead of gin.
Tiziano: a variation of the Bellini, but with strawberry grape juice instead of peach.
Venetian Spritz: The essence of the Lagoon
We've talked a lot about the Spritz, but there's a reason: it is the quintessential Venetian drink. If you've never tried it, do so. If you've already tried it, do it again. But remember: a true Venetian Spritz is with Select.
Aperol Spritz: The most famous
Easy to love, easy to criticize. The Aperol Spritz is the most touristy version, but when prepared right, it's a joy. It's perfect for those who love sweet and citrusy flavors, and for those looking for a drink that goes with everything.
St. Mark's Square: Drinking in style (and on a budget)
Having drinks in St. Mark's Square is an experience. But beware: you pay for the experience. If you decide to sit at bars in the Piazza San Marco, be aware that you will pay more for the location than for the drink. The advice? Order an ombra at nearby bacari and return to the Piazza to enjoy the view with a lighter wallet.
What to drink in Venice: The report
Let's report on What to drink in Venice.
Venetian spritz: authentic, unique, perfect.
Bellini: the sweet elegance of the Serenissima.
Sgroppino, Cynar Spritz and ombra: for an adventure into the world of Venetian drinks.
Drinks at St. Mark's Square: enjoy it, but wisely.
Sip lke hemingway: The true tastes of Venice
Wondering what to drink in Venice to truly embrace the city’s spirit? Let’s toast to tradition and dive in. Start with an Aperol Spritz, the iconic Venetian cocktail that graces every bar and restaurant in the city. The recipe? Simple yet genius: Prosecco, a splash of soda water, and Aperol (or Campari if you like it more bitter), topped with a slice of orange or lemon. Locals, however, often prefer the Select Spritz, a nod to the lesser-known liqueur crafted in the Veneto region.
What else to know about the Venice cocktail? Either way, these spritz cocktails are best enjoyed with cicchetti at lunch, mingling with other patrons who sip and savor like seasoned Venetians.
For something sweeter, head to Harry's Bar, the birthplace of the Bellini, where pureed white peaches meet chilled Prosecco in an elegant glass. Even Ernest Hemingway, a big fan of Venetian drinks, couldn’t resist its charm. Prefer wine? Pair a crisp white wine or grappa with your meal for a taste of the region’s essence. Don’t miss the timeless combo of sparkling water and bitter for a refreshing, non-alcoholic alternative.
Whether you’re toasting in Piazza San Marco, where the world watches, or at a hidden bacaro with Venetians who love their traditions, every drink in Venice tells a story. So take a sip, let the bartender guide you, and raise your glass to the flavors of Italy.
What to drink in Venice, conclusion: Cheers to the Serenissima!
Now you know exactly what to drink in Venice to really experience the Venetian atmosphere. Be tempted by the Spritz, savor the history of the Bellini, and sip a shade in the bacari like a real local. And remember: in Venice, every drink is a journey, every toast a memory. So, raise your glass and... cheers!
Are you satisfied with discovering Venice cocktails and venetian drinks? Remember: Venetian spritz is the first one to drink.