Aperitivo culture
"In Italy, aperitivo is more than a drink. It’s a ritual, a lifestyle, and a cultural icon."
Aperitivo is that moment of the day when everything slows down, conversations take over, and flavor becomes the main focus. It usually takes place between 6 PM and 8 PM, the perfect interval between work and dinner—a chance to unwind, meet friends or colleagues, and savor the sweetness of Italian life.
Origins and Meaning of Aperitivo
The word “aperitivo” comes from the Latin aperire, meaning “to open.” Its original purpose was to stimulate the appetite before dinner. Aperitivo was born in the 18th century in Turin, thanks to Antonio Benedetto Carpano’s invention of vermouth, and over the years it spread throughout Italy, becoming a symbol of social life and la dolce vita.
In the 1920s and 1930s, aperitivo also became a glamorous moment, frequented by artists, writers, and intellectuals—a place where culture and conviviality intertwined. Today, this ritual symbolizes socializing: a way to relax after work, enjoy free time, and share smiles and conversation with others.
Curiosity: The Negroni is named after Count Camillo Negroni, who in the 1920s in Florence asked to strengthen his Americano with gin. This is how one of the world’s most iconic cocktails was born.
Aperitivo as a Social Ritual
Having an aperitivo is more than just drinking; it’s a true social experience. Usually held after work and before dinner, between 6 PM and 8 PM, it’s the perfect opportunity to meet friends, colleagues, or family. In recent decades, especially in big cities like Milan, aperitivo has evolved into a complete event: the apericena, with rich and varied buffets that often replace a traditional dinner.
This social ritual has no age limit: students, professionals, and families gather in trendy venues, while curious tourists experience Italian tradition in all its authenticity.
Aperitivo Icons: Campari, Aperol, and Classic Cocktails
Among the historical icons of aperitivo are Campari, born in 1860, and Aperol, launched in 1919. In Milan, two venues have become city symbols: Terrazza Campari and Terrazza Aperol, both overlooking the Duomo, perfect spots to enjoy an aperitivo with a breathtaking view.
One of the most famous historical cocktails is the Milano-Torino, a mix of Campari and vermouth, considered the precursor to the Negroni—a drink that can still be ordered and enjoyed in Italian bars today.
The iconic aperitivo drinks include:
Milano-Torino: Campari + Sweet Vermouth, garnished with an orange slice. Precursor of the Negroni, elegant and slightly bitter.
Aperol Spritz: Aperol, Prosecco, and a splash of soda or sparkling water, served with an orange slice. Fresh and slightly bitter.
Campari Soda: Campari mixed with soda, served with an orange slice. Classic and bold.
Negroni: equal parts Gin, Sweet Vermouth, and Campari, garnished with orange peel. Strong and refined.
Americano: Campari, Sweet Vermouth, and soda, with a slice of orange or lemon. Elegant and light.
Hugo Spritz: Prosecco, elderflower syrup, soda, and mint leaves, served with a slice of lime or lemon. Fresh and aromatic.
Prosecco: served chilled, either alone or as a base for cocktails.
Curiosity: The Aperol Spritz was created in 1919 in Padua (Veneto) and became famous worldwide only decades later, becoming a symbol of the Italian summer aperitivo.
Non-Alcoholic Alternatives
Not everyone drinks alcohol, and Italy has options for them too. Historically, non-alcoholic alternatives included drinks like Crodino, Chinotto, Cedrata, and Sanbittèr. Today, more and more bars offer creative and refined non-alcoholic cocktails, satisfying all tastes without losing the spirit of aperitivo.
What to Eat with Aperitivo
Aperitivo isn’t just about drinking; it’s also a culinary experience that varies from region to region. Snacks depend on the venue and the area:
Classic: chips, olives, cashews.
Heavier: mini pizzas, sandwiches, panini, cold cuts, and cheeses.
Gourmet: tartines, warm dishes, and regional finger food.
In Veneto, particularly in Venice, the aperitivo ritual takes the form of cicchetti: small bites, often seafood-based, served in traditional Venetian bacari. It’s a local version of aperitivo, loved by both residents and tourists, and often accompanied by events dedicated to cicchetti—perfect for enjoying regional specialties in a convivial setting.
Many venues also allow ordering extra dishes from the menu to accompany your drink, turning aperitivo into a light and creative meal.
Curiosity: Cicchetti can be enjoyed during true “bacaro tours,” a typically Venetian experience that combines food, socializing, and a stroll through the city’s narrow streets and canals.
Aperitivo: An Experience to Live
Being Italian and having grown up with aperitivo, I can say it’s always a special moment to meet friends, family, or colleagues. It’s a time to share laughter, conversations, and good food while enjoying the atmosphere around you.
Aperitivo has no boundaries: you can enjoy it in the city, at the beach, in the mountains, at home, or while traveling. The location doesn’t matter—what counts is the company. It’s always a good excuse to pause, sip a drink, and nibble on some snacks before dinner, and sometimes it can even be a pleasant moment before lunch.
It’s a ritual that combines taste, socializing, and relaxation—a true must-try during a visit to Italy, but also something to enjoy whenever you want to simply savor the moment.
If you also want to experience the taste of Aperitivo Culture in Italy during your trip or vacation, you can book a personalized consultation or write to me directly at dolceitalyescape@gmail.com. I’ll be happy to help you live an authentic experience, guiding you to the most iconic venues and the most special moments Italy has to offer.
