The 7 Best Bars of Venice

Venice is a stunning city full of winding canals, majestic architecture and impressive history. It’s no secret that this beautiful city has a vibrant nightlife scene. Whether you like to keep it traditionally classy with an Aperol Spritz or sip on craft cocktails, Venice has the right place for you. Here are our top picks for enjoying a night out in Venice.

1. Harry’s Bar

Harry’s Bar has been an institution in Venice since it first opened in 1931. This bar is famous for inventing the classic Bellini cocktail, which is made with Prosecco and white peach puree. The interior is refined and classic, offering a glimpse into Venice’s historic past.

2. Bar Longhi

Located in the stunning Gritti Palace Hotel, Bar Longhi is certainly one of the most captivating bars in Venice. It boasts an elegant atmosphere and an extensive cocktail list. The bartenders are known for their incredible skill and always serve up something new and delicious.

3. Skyline Rooftop Bar

For an elevated experience, head up to the Skyline Rooftop Bar located in the Hilton Molino Stucky. This hidden gem is the perfect spot for admiring the stunning views over Venice’s skyline while sipping a cocktail or two. It’s an absolute must-visit spot in Venice.

4. Campo Santa Margherita

If you’re looking for a less refined, more authentic Venice bar scene, you should visit Campo Santa Margherita. This local square is surrounded by bars and cafes, and is always packed with locals and tourists alike. It’s an excellent spot to people-watch while experiencing Venice’s buzzing atmosphere.

5. Al Prosecco

Al Prosecco is an intimate little bar hidden away in the narrow streets of Cannaregio. This local hotspot is the perfect place to enjoy Venice’s traditional Spritz alongside a plate of delicious cicchetti – typical Venetian bar snacks.

6. Osteria ai Pugni

Osteria ai Pugni is one of Venice’s oldest bars, dating back to the 1700s. This no-frills bar is a Venetian institution, offering a selection of Italian wines, beers and spirits. The highlight of this bar is the convivial atmosphere and excellent company that you can find inside.

7. Naranzaria

Located in the heart of Venice, Naranzaria is a trendy bar that offers a welcoming atmosphere and a great selection of drinks. It’s located on the Grand Canal, and is the perfect spot for an aperitivo or a nightcap after a day of sightseeing. Naranzaria is definitely worth a visit when in Venice.

Conclusion

Venice has a significant bar culture, and these seven bars are the perfect representation of that. Whether you’re looking for an authentic, traditional experience, or you’re after something more contemporary and trendy, Venice has it all. From iconic institutions to hidden gems, the city’s nightlife scene is ready to be discovered.

What are some of your favorite bars in Venice?

The 7 Best Bars of Venice – An Insider’s Guide

Venice is one of Italy’s most romantic and beautiful cities, known for its stunning canals, historic buildings, and charming streets. It can be a wonderful destination for any kind of traveler – whether you’re interested in history, architecture, art, or simply looking for a relaxing escape. But after a long day of sightseeing, there’s nothing better than relaxing with a drink at one of the city’s fantastic bars. In this insider’s guide, we’ll highlight the seven best bars in Venice, along with some tips on what to see, eat, and experience in the city.

The 7 Best Bars in Venice

1. Skyline Rooftop Bar – Offering breathtaking views of the city’s iconic skyline, Skyline Rooftop Bar is the perfect spot for a romantic evening or a special celebration. Located on top of the Hilton Molino Stucky Venice Hotel, the bar serves expertly crafted cocktails and small bites.

2. The Gritti Terrace – Situated on the iconic Grand Canal, The Gritti Terrace is the ideal location to watch the comings and goings of gondolas and vaporetti while sipping a Bellini. A visit to this historic bar is an experience in itself.

3. Osteria Al Squero – A charming bar located in the heart of Dorsoduro, Osteria Al Squero is a popular spot to enjoy a drink and watch the lively activities on the nearby canal. They also serve delicious cicchetti (or Italian tapas) that make for a perfect snack.

4. Harry’s Bar – This legendary bar has been a Venice institution since the 1930s, attracting celebrities from Ernest Hemingway to Charlie Chaplin. Frequented by locals and tourists alike, Harry’s Bar is the perfect spot to enjoy an authentic Bellini.

5. Il Mercante – Nestled in the trendy San Marco neighborhood, Il Mercante is a chic and stylish bar that showcases vintage sights and sounds of the Venetian spirit with its traditional artwork and old liqueurs. The bar specializes in classic cocktails with a modern twist.

6. Bacaromi – A new addition to Venice’s bar scene, Bacaromi is a hip spot that offers visitors a contemporary Venetian experience. The jewel-box bar showcases a range of local and international cocktail mixes, along with cozy candle-lit atmosphere.

7. Cantina do Mori – The oldest bar in Venice, Cantina do Mori has been operating since the 15th century. The bar is a true Venice experience with its authentic interiors and old-world atmosphere. Served with a complementary cicchetti (Venetian tapas), the bar is a great start to the perfect evening.

What to See & Do in Venice

Venice is a city with a rich and varied history, and there are countless sights and activities to enjoy. A few of our top picks include:

– St. Mark’s Basilica – This iconic church is a must-visit for anyone visiting Venice. With its beautiful mosaic artwork and gilded ceilings, it’s a stunning example of Byzantine architecture.

– Doge’s Palace – Another important historic site, this palace was once the seat of power for the Venetian Republic. Today, visitors can tour the palace and learn about its fascinating history.

– Rialto Bridge – The oldest bridge in Venice, the Rialto Bridge offers stunning views of the Grand Canal. It’s a great place to people-watch and take in the city’s unique atmosphere.

Where to Eat in Venice

Venice is known for its excellent cuisine, and there are plenty of great dining spots to choose from. A few of our top picks include:

– Osteria Bancogiro – A popular spot for locals, this seafood-focused restaurant offers delicious dishes like fried calamari, spaghetti alle vongole, and grilled octopus.

– Corte Sconta – A charming and intimate restaurant located in a quiet courtyard, Corte Sconta serves up Venetian classics like risotto with scampi, razor clams, and grilled fish.

– Cantina do Spade – This historic restaurant dates all the way back to the 15th century and is known for its tasty cicchetti plates (which go perfectly with a glass of wine or a cocktail).

Off the Beaten Path Suggestions

If you’re looking to escape the crowds and experience some of Venice’s lesser-known attractions, here are a few ideas:

– Visit the island of Burano – Known for its colorful houses and lace-making tradition, Burano is a charming spot that’s worth the short boat ride from Venice.

– Wander the Jewish Ghetto – One of the oldest Jewish ghettos in Europe, this historic neighborhood is home to several synagogues and interesting cultural sites.

– Take a tour of the Venetian Lagoon – There are plenty of options for boat tours that will take you around the lagoon and to nearby islands like Murano, famous for its glass-making tradition.

Conclusion

Venice is a city that’s full of surprises, and its lively bar scene is just one of its many attractions. With its breathtaking canals, beautiful architecture, and delicious cuisine, Venice is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Italian culture and history. With this insider’s guide, you’re sure to experience the best that the city has to offer – from sipping a Bellini at Harry’s Bar to exploring the lesser-known corners of the city.