Wondering what to do between 5:30 to 7:30 on your Italian vacation? There is only one thing to do, go for an aperitivo. Aperitivo has to be my favorite Italian tradition and is by far the best way to get the most value while traveling. Aperitivo takes place before dinner when you can go to a restaurant or bar and they serve drinks and snacks. I recommend choosing your aperitivo place carefully in Italy. Look for the best Hotels or Restaurants in the area you are visiting, and see if you can call the bar to get a table. While the price of aperitivo does not vary much, the experience does.
Many of the nicest hotels in Italy are extremely exclusive and located in marvelous villas that only guests (paying upwards of $800 a night) get access to. When you make a reservation at their bar for aperitivo you can get access to going into these incredible hotels. As well as receiving 5-star service and touring the beautiful villas and their gardens just by taking advantage of this Italian custom.
Increadible Aperitivo Experiences
I had the most incredible experience at the Palazzo Avino located on the Amalfi Coast. We were able to go without reservation during summer and sit outside looking over the beautiful Mediterranean while enjoying our martinis. They brought us the standard chips, nuts, and olives as well as a delicious tasting of small bites prepared by their kitchen. This is a typical apertivo experience at a nice hotel. You can expect to pay upwards of 20 euros for a cocktail but it comes with food and a beautiful view. I cannot wait for the next time I am back in Ravello to come back for aperitivo.
Another unforgettable experience that I had while in Italy has to be Apertivo at the Court. It is a must when visiting Rome. Reservations are necessary, but well worth it. The tables all face the Colosseum and the drinks are spectacular. They also have a great variety of mocktails. The food that is provided is made in their Michelin-star kitchen. They offer the standard snacks and an array of focaccia, sandwiches, and other small bites.
I hope that you enjoyed this article and have great aperitivo experiences while visiting Italy.
Sarah 🙂
