Italians know how to squeeze every drop out of the day. 

Inherent in the culture is a daily structure formed around mini traditions and habits that knit together the fabric of Italian life. 

From a quick morning caffé knocked back at the bar to a long evening passeggiata (often with a gelato in hand) to walk off a feast, Italians prioritise finding pleasure morning, noon and night.

And my favourite of these pastimes is aperitivo.

The term comes from the Latin aperire, meaning “to open”, and refers to drinks designed to stimulate the appetite before a meal. Aromatic and bitter herbal liqueurs, including Campari, Aperol, Select, Cynar or non-alcoholic Crodino, are usually sipped simply with soda or in a cocktail such as the Negroni, Americano, and Spritz, adding a modern twist to the tradition.

But in Italy, aperitivo is more than a drink – it’s a sacred ritual. 

Usually occurring on weekdays between 6pm and 9pm, the true magic of aperitivo lies in its social role. A pause between work and evening, a time to connect with friends or strangers, and a daily celebration of la dolce vita.

Almost like a Happy Hour, but with the focus on a leisurely catch-up with friends rather than necking drinks. The low ABV of the bitters is geared towards drinking for enjoyment, rather than getting into party mode.

With Italians preferring to eat much later in the evening than most European countries, aperitivo was born out of the hunger that develops in those in-between hours and isn’t complete without stuzzichini – small snacks like olives, cheeses, focaccia, or cured meats. In some places, these offerings have grown into apericena, a light meal in itself.

It is a pocket of time devoted to three things – flavour, fun and connection.

When visiting Italy, it is my favourite thing to do, and I often fare l’aperitivo (do the aperitivo) alone. If you’re learning this beautiful yet complex language, it is the perfect opportunity to eavesdrop on the hubbub of chattering friends that surround you.

Each city brings its unique flair to this, making it an essential part of the Italian experience and here are my favourite spots:

Milan

MagCafé: This canalside bar is known for its expertly crafted Negronis and intimate atmosphere. Be sure to use mosquito spray in the summer as this is somewhat of a zanzara hotspot

La Hora Feliz: A very popular bar that offers an extensive apericena from 5pm to 11pm, providing a wide array of food and drink options. If you are a larger group, make sure you book a table.

Ceresio 7: A stylish rooftop bar with a pool, this is one of the chicest places in Milan for aperitivo at sunset.

Florence

Caffè Gilli: The oldest café in Florence, this historic bar offers a selection of classic cocktails. There can be longer wait times here, so bear that in mind.

Loggia Roof Bar: Located in the Santo Spirito district, this rooftop bar provides stunning views and is the perfect place for an early evening date.

Caffè degli Artigiani: A trendy neighbourhood bar, and mentioned in Rick Steves’ Florence and Tuscany Tour Book.

Venice

Tirovino Il Chioschetto: A small kiosk right by the canal, this is our favourite place for a Spritz. If you’re in luck, Paolo will be there! Check out his spritz explainer on our Instagram and TikTok.

Terrazza Danieli: A luxurious rooftop bar with panoramic views of the city and the lagoon, you’ll want to stay for dinner after your aperitivo and make a night of it.

Cantina Do Spade: A historic wine bar frequented by locals, offering a genuine Venetian aperitivo experience. The traditional cicchetti are some of the best you’ll ever eat!

Naples

L’Antiquario: A speakeasy-style bar known for its classic cocktails and elegant setting. The interior takes you straight to New York in the 1930s.

Sky Lounge Solarium & Cocktail Bar: Located atop the Grand Hotel Vesuvio, this bar offers breathtaking views of the Gulf of Naples.

Cammarota Spritz: A lively, no-frills bar in the historic centre, famous for its Aperol Spritz and friendly atmosphere. Cheap and very cheerful

Rome

Terrazza Les Étoiles Roma: A rooftop bar with views of St. Peter’s Basilica, offering a very sophisticated aperitivo experience.

Freni e Frizioni: A trendy bar in Trastevere (my favourite area of Rome). It’s known for its extensive buffet and creative cocktails.

Bar San Calisto: Somewhat of an institution, this bar is busy all day, every day and a fun place to sip on a spritz or two.