Article

Spoiler: it’s not just about the drinks — it’s a whole lifestyle.

If you've ever strolled through an Italian piazza around 6:30 PM, you've probably noticed something magical happening: glasses clinking, laughter floating through the air, golden light bouncing off ancient buildings, and tables covered in small plates of colorful bites.

Welcome to l’aperitivo — Italy’s answer to “happy hour,” but with more soul, more flavor, and way more style.

🇮🇹 What Is Aperitivo, Really?

Forget everything you know about pre-dinner drinks. Aperitivo is not just an excuse to sip a cocktail before dinner — it’s a sacred moment of the day. A cultural ritual. A pause. An invitation to slow down and connect.

Originating in Northern Italy (Turin, Milan, and Venice all claim it), aperitivo is about opening the appetite, yes — but it’s really about opening your senses.

Think: a cold Spritz, a bitter Negroni, or a sparkling Prosecco, served with olives, chips, cured meats, or even a full buffet of finger foods (especially in Milan or Bologna). It’s the golden hour in every sense of the word.

✨ Why Travelers Fall in Love With Aperitivo

Because it’s pure Italian magic. It blends food, drink, conversation, atmosphere, and aesthetics into one irresistible moment.

Whether you’re sitting in a trendy bar in Florence, a hidden courtyard in Rome, or a seaside lounge in Sicily — aperitivo is where locals and travelers meet the soul of Italy.

You’re not just sipping a drink.
You’re living like an Italian. You’re part of the scene.

"Aperitivo is that moment when time stops… and the real taste of Italy begins."

🍹 Top Aperitivo Drinks to Try in Italy

If you’re traveling with Tour Guide Erik, you’re already in the best hands — but here’s your cheat sheet for what to order:

• Spritz Veneziano – Aperol, Prosecco, soda. Bright, bubbly, and iconic.

• Negroni – Gin, vermouth, Campari. Strong, bitter, timeless.

• Americano – Campari, sweet vermouth, soda. A lighter twist.

• Hugo – Elderflower, mint, Prosecco. Floral and refreshing (popular in Northern Italy).

• Vermouth on the rocks – For the purists.

Pair with: taralli, bruschetta, prosciutto, parmigiano chunks, sun-dried tomatoes, and olives you’ll remember forever.

📍 Where to Experience the Best Aperitivo Moments

Here are a few of our insider favorites we love showing our guests on our tours:

• Florence – Grab a Spritz on a rooftop bar with Duomo views.

• Rome – Trastevere’s cobblestone aperitivo bars are pure cinema.

• Milan – Apericena heaven! Drinks + unlimited buffet? Yes, please.

• Syracuse (Sicily) – Sunset aperitivo with the sea at your feet.

• Lecce (Puglia) – Local wines + cicchetti under Baroque arches.

🧳 Ready to Live the Aperitivo Life?

At Tour Guide Erik, we don’t just take you to places — we let you feel them.
Aperitivo is one of those experiences you can’t Google — you have to live it.

So next time you’re planning your Italian escape, make sure you carve out time for that golden hour. And when you’re with us, we’ll make sure you sip the perfect one.

Because travel should taste as good as it looks.

Follow us @baccotours on Instagram for real-time aperitivo vibes, travel inspiration, and secret spots across Italy 🇮🇹✨