Italian Aperitivo Guide: How to Enjoy This Perfect Tradition

Italian aperitivo is more than just a drink before dinner. It is a daily ritual that marks the transition from work to evening, a social tradition that brings friends together, and arguably one of Italy’s greatest contributions to civilised living.

We explain what aperitivo involves, the classic drinks and snacks that define it, and how to enjoy this tradition whether you are visiting Italy or recreating it at home.

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What Is Aperitivo?

Aperitivo is the Italian tradition of enjoying a pre-dinner drink accompanied by small snacks, typically between 6pm and 8pm. The word comes from the Latin “aperire” meaning to open – the idea being that a bitter or sparkling drink opens the appetite before the evening meal.

Unlike British after-work drinks that can easily become the evening’s main event, aperitivo is deliberately moderate. It is one or two drinks with light food, designed to whet rather than replace your appetite. The social element is the real point – it is about slowing down and connecting with people.

Classic Aperitivo Drinks

Aperol Spritz

The most recognisable aperitivo drink internationally. Three parts Prosecco, two parts Aperol, one part soda water, served over ice with an orange slice. Its low alcohol content and bittersweet flavour make it the perfect light evening drink. Best enjoyed outdoors in warm weather.

Negroni

Equal parts gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth, stirred over ice and garnished with an orange peel. Stronger and more bitter than a Spritz, the Negroni suits those who prefer their aperitivo with more depth. It is Florence’s signature cocktail and one of the most influential drinks in cocktail history.

Campari Soda

The simplest aperitivo option – Campari topped with soda water over ice. Clean, bitter, and refreshing. In Italy it comes in a distinctive single-serve bottle designed by Fortunato Depero in 1932.

Prosecco

A glass of chilled Prosecco is perfectly acceptable as an aperitivo and is the most common choice in Venice and the Veneto region. Light, sparkling, and low in alcohol, it pairs beautifully with almost any snack.

Aperitivo Snacks

Traditional aperitivo snacks are simple and savoury – designed to complement the drink rather than fill you up. Olives, crisps, small pieces of focaccia, grissini breadsticks, and mixed nuts are the classics.

In Milan and other northern cities, the tradition of apericena has evolved where bars offer generous buffets with pasta, rice salads, bruschetta, and cold meats alongside your drink. This blurs the line between aperitivo and dinner and is popular with younger Italians.

How to Do Aperitivo at Home

Creating an aperitivo experience at home is simple and rewarding. Choose one or two classic drinks, prepare a selection of simple snacks, and set a defined time – ideally early evening when the day’s work is done.

For snacks, assemble a board with good olives, sliced salami, chunks of Parmigiano, grissini, and some marinated artichoke hearts. Add a bowl of crisps and some focaccia. The key is variety and ease rather than elaborate preparation.

Where to Find Aperitivo in the UK

Italian aperitivo culture has taken root in many UK cities. London has numerous bars offering proper aperitivo service, including Bar Termini in Soho and Campari Bar at various pop-up locations. Manchester, Edinburgh, and Bristol all have Italian-influenced bars serving aperitivo with accompaniments.

Many non-Italian bars now offer Aperol Spritz and Negroni as standard, though the accompanying snacks are not always included. For the full experience, seek out bars that explicitly offer aperitivo service with complimentary nibbles.

The Etiquette of Aperitivo

In Italy, aperitivo is a social occasion not a drinking session. One or two drinks is the norm. The pace is leisurely – do not rush. Standing at the bar is perfectly acceptable and often cheaper than taking a table. Tipping is not expected for aperitivo in most Italian bars.

The dress code is smart casual. Italians take appearance seriously and aperitivo is an opportunity to look good after the work day. You do not need to be formal, but showing up in gym clothes would raise eyebrows.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between aperitivo and happy hour?

Aperitivo is a cultural tradition focused on socialising with moderate drinking and light food. Happy hour is primarily about discounted drinks. The pace, purpose, and food element make aperitivo a distinctly different experience.

What time is aperitivo in Italy?

Typically between 6pm and 8pm, bridging the gap between the end of the work day and dinner, which in Italy is usually served around 8:30pm or later.

Is aperitivo food free?

In most Italian bars, basic snacks like olives, crisps, and nuts are included with your drink order. Bars offering apericena with larger buffet spreads may charge a slightly higher drink price to cover the food.

What is the best aperitivo drink for beginners?

An Aperol Spritz is the most accessible starting point. It is light, not too bitter, and refreshing. If you find it too sweet, try a Campari Soda. If you want something stronger, a Negroni is the classic step up.

For more food and drink guides, explore our latest articles. Plan an Italian trip with Italia.it for official tourism information.