While traveling throughout Italy, it is without question that you will hear the phrase “Fare un’aperitivo!” amongst locals. The word aperire is of Latin origin, meaning “to open”. Translated literally, “fare un’aperitivo” is “to have an aperitif”, or to open your palate, thus promoting proper digestion.

The art of enjoying a pre-dinner drink has become a tradition that is incorporated into the daily routine of Italians and provides the opportunity to enjoy sacred time spent amongst family and friends. Aperitivi Italiani has had historical significance in the Veneto and Lombardia regions of Italy in particular that dates back hundreds of years. Outside of these regions, the aperitivo is certainly known, but it does not have the same element of tradition that is incorporated into daily routine as it does in Northern Italy.

You may be thinking to yourself, “Oh! This is Happy Hour!” Although aperitivi Italiani can resemble American “Happy Hour” in some ways, unlike Happy Hour, enjoying aperitivi Italiani is not something that people take part in only on occasion or in the hopes to drink more for less. You won’t receive a discount on aperitivi the way that you will during Happy Hour; most aperitivi are between 3 Euros – 8 Euros and to fare un’aperitivo is considered an experience that is cherished each day between 6 – 9 p.m. as a way to unwind from life’s daily stressors and connect with those who matter most.

Traditional aperitivo cocktails are lower in alcohol content than other drinks are and are usually combined with a small plate of chips, crostini, olives, cheese, cured meats, or the like. Some of the most popular aperitivi Italiani are:

  • Aperol Spritz
  • Vermouth Rosso
  • Campari
  • Wine
  • Negroni
  • Prosecco

In Venice, the absolute best places to enjoy aperitivi Italiani are:

  • Bar Duchamp
  • Bacareto Da Lele
  • Bar Alla Toletta
  • Cantina El Bottegon
  • Bar Al Canton (Santa Marta)
  • Caffe Rosso
  • Caffe Imagina
  • Caffe Noir

The next time you’re in Italy, step into a local bacareto and fare un’aperitivo as you take part in one of Italy’s most cherished cultural traditions. After all, you’re in Italy – sit back, relax, & enjoy la dolce vita!

Cin Cin!

How We Travel

Learn More
  • Self Drive tour in Europe
    Self Drive

    Hit the road your way: itinerary, car, accommodations, sights, and tours. But let us do all the heavy lifting.

  • Chauffeur 1
    Chauffeur

    The freedom of your own private car, the luxury of your own personal guide. And the very best hidden secrets.

  • Train going over bridge next to waterfall
    Rail

    Convenient, comfortable, oozing with charm. With a front-row seat to some of the most beautiful scenery in the world.

  • Young people overlooking scenic area in Europe
    Private Group

    The trip of a lifetime, personalized just for your group of friends, family, or organization down to every last detail.

  • Honeymoon coupe drinking wine by ocean
    Honeymoon

    Every tour is different, perfectly matched for every couple. Crafted by a team who is as excited about your honeymoon as you are.

  • funny mural of school children in uniforms
    Scheduled Tour

    For travelers who prefer to join a small group tour, we offer scheduled tours.

Celebrating Swedish Midsummer

9 Days | 8 Nights
Outdoor
Family
History
Arts and Culture

The summer solstice – the longest day of the year. This is a very special holiday in Sweden, if not the most important! Join in the festivities of music, dancing around the Maypole, making and wearing head wreaths made of flowers, and amazing food and drink.

Starting From$3,005per person based on
double occupancy

A Very Scandinavian Christmas

17 Days | 16 Nights
Outdoor
Adventure
City

Explore the four countries that make up Scandinavia—Denmark, Finland, Norway and Sweden—from December through January (including Christmas and New Year’s Eve). Spectacular activities and tours have been arranged to make this one of your most magical holidays yet!

Starting From$8,122per person based on
double occupancy
Passengers on Skylight train

Specialty Trains of Switzerland

9 Days | 8 Nights
Castles
Outdoor
Culinary

Experience Switzerland’s stunning natural scenery aboard panoramic and specialty trains. From Geneva and Zermatt to St Moritz and Zurich, you’ll explore six Swiss towns in this 9-day itinerary. 

Starting From$8,630per person based on
double occupancy
By-Your-Side

By-Your-Side Service℠

Our personal concierge service and mobile app

Europe Experts

Custom Europe Experts

Experts in planning truly customized trips

Without Compromise

Value without Compromise

High-touch inclusions and customized experiences

Consistency with Individuality

Consistency with Individuality

You’ll always be met with the highest standards

Let's Get Social

@tenontours