Bars in Venice: Everything you didn't know

The bars in Venice are much more than just places to grab a drink. They are cultural institutions that embody the Venetian way of life. The concept of a "bar" in Venice is different from what many people might expect. Here, bars are often referred to as bacari, small, unpretentious venues where you can enjoy a glass of wine, known as ombra, alongside a selection of cicchetti—Venetian-style tapas.

Unlike in other parts of Italy, where bars might serve as quick stops for an espresso or an aperitivo, Venice bars invite you to linger, enjoy, and absorb the atmosphere. Many bars in Venice are adorned with traditional features such as wood bar counters, brick walls, and Murano glass chandeliers that add a touch of local flair. Whether you're in the mood for a craft cocktail or a glass of biodynamic wine, these venues cater to every taste and offer a window into the local lifestyle.

Where to go for a drink in Venice at night?

When night falls, Venice comes alive with a variety of options for evening entertainment. The best bars in Venice are spread throughout the city, each offering a unique experience. In the San Polo district, you’ll find some of the most popular bars where both locals and tourists gather. This area is particularly known for its proximity to the Rialto Market, where you can enjoy a glass of vino vero while watching the hustle and bustle of Venetian life.

If you're looking for something a bit more refined, head to the Grand Canal, where you can find wine bars that offer a curated selection of Italian wines and fresh seafood like oysters. These wine offerings are perfect for those who love wine and want to experience the full range of what Venice has to offer. Many bars also offer live music, creating an ambience that perfectly complements the city’s romantic atmosphere.

For a more contemporary vibe, some cocktail bars near the Venice boardwalk offer craft cocktails and good beer in a stylish setting. These spots often feature modern decor, including Edison bulbs and sleek furniture, making them the perfect place to unwind with friends after a long day of exploring.

What are venetian Bars called?

The bars in Venice have a special name: bacari (singular bacaro). These traditional Venetian bars are intimate, casual places where you can sip on a glass of wine or prosecco while enjoying small plates of cicchetti. The word "bacaro" is believed to derive from "Bacco," the Roman god of wine, which is fitting given the city's love affair with the drink.

Bacari are typically small establishments with just a few tables, a counter where the cicchetti are displayed, and a selection of wines that patrons can order by the glass or bottle. The atmosphere in these bars is always lively, with locals and tourists alike mingling as they enjoy their drinks and food. The decor is often rustic, featuring wooden counters, brick walls, and low lighting that creates a warm and inviting ambience.

What is the Bar crawl in Venice called?

The practice of moving from one bar to another in Venice is known as the Bacaro Tour. This tradition involves visiting several bacari in one evening, sampling different types of cicchetti and wines at each stop. It's a fun and social way to experience the best bars in Venice while also getting a taste of the local culinary offerings.

A Bacaro Tour typically starts early in the evening and can last until late at night. Participants move from one bar to another, often guided by locals who know the best spots in town. Each bacaro has its specialties, so the tour allows you to experience a wide range of flavors and atmospheres, from bustling, crowded bars to quieter, more intimate venues.

How much does it cost to do a Bacaro Tour in Venice?

One of the best things about the Bacaro Tour is that it can be surprisingly affordable. The cost of participating in a Bacaro Tour varies depending on the number of bars you visit and how much you eat and drink at each stop. Generally, you can expect to pay around €2-€5 for each glass of wine and €1-€3 for each cicchetto. This means that even if you visit several bars in one night, the total cost can be quite reasonable.

Some of the more popular bacari might charge slightly higher prices, especially if they are located in tourist-heavy areas like the Grand Canal or near famous landmarks. However, venturing off the beaten path and exploring bars in quieter neighborhoods can help you find better deals and avoid the crowds.

How does the Bacaro Tour work in Venice?

The Bacaro Tour is a self-guided adventure, although some people prefer to join organized tours to learn more about the history and culture of Venice's bar scene. If you're going solo or with a group of friends, the basic idea is simple: pick a starting point, usually in a central location like San Polo or near the Rialto Market, and make your way from one bacaro to the next.

At each bar, you'll want to order a drink—whether it's a glass of prosecco col fondo, a local wine like pinot grigio, or a craft cocktail—and pair it with a few cicchetti. The cicchetti can include everything from seafood, like anchovies and sardines, to meat-based options, such as meatballs or sliced cured meats. Vegetarian options are also available, including fried vegetables, cheese, and small sandwiches.

The key to a successful Bacaro Tour is pacing yourself. It's easy to get carried away with all the delicious food and drinks, but remember that the goal is to visit multiple bars and sample a variety of offerings. Take your time, enjoy the atmosphere at each stop, and chat with the locals—this is all part of the experience.

What are venetian Cicchetti called?

Cicchetti are the small snacks or appetizers traditionally served in bacari throughout Venice. The name itself comes from the Latin word "ciccus," meaning "small quantity," which perfectly describes these bite-sized delights. Cicchetti are typically displayed on the counter of the bar, allowing patrons to choose from a variety of options.

Common types of cicchetti include polpette (meatballs), sarde in saor (marinated sardines), baccalà mantecato (creamed cod), and various crostini topped with different ingredients like tomato, mozzarella, or prosciutto. Each bar has its specialties, so part of the fun of the Bacaro Tour is trying different cicchetti at each stop.

These snacks are designed to be enjoyed with a drink, making them the perfect accompaniment to a glass of wine or a spritz. Whether you're looking for something light or more substantial, cicchetti offer a diverse range of flavors that cater to every palate.

What is the Bacaro Tour?

The Bacaro Tour is more than just a pub crawl—it's a cherished Venetian tradition that offers a deep dive into the city's unique bar culture. While a typical pub crawl might focus solely on drinking, the Bacaro Tour is as much about the food and the social experience as it is about the wine or cocktails.

Participating in a Bacaro Tour is a fantastic way to explore different parts of Venice, from the bustling heart of the city to quieter, more residential neighborhoods. As you move from one bar to the next, you'll encounter a mix of locals and tourists, all enjoying the lively atmosphere and delicious offerings.

Whether you're sipping on a glass of natural wine in a cozy bar with brick walls or enjoying a craft cocktail under the glow of Edison bulbs, the Bacaro Tour offers something for everyone. It's a journey that combines the best of Venice—its food, its wine, and its vibrant culture—into one unforgettable experience.

Curiosities about Bars in Venice

The Murano Glass Chandeliers

One of the most striking features of some bars in Venice is the Murano glass chandeliers that hang from the ceilings. These chandeliers are a testament to Venice's rich history in glassmaking, with the nearby island of Murano being world-renowned for its glass artistry. In many Venice bars, these chandeliers add a touch of elegance and luxury, creating a beautiful contrast with the often rustic decor of the bar itself.

The Origin of Prosecco Col Fondo

Prosecco Col Fondo is a type of prosecco that has its origins in the Veneto region. Unlike the more common sparkling prosecco, Col Fondo is a natural wine that undergoes a second fermentation in the bottle, resulting in a cloudy appearance and a more complex, yeasty flavor. This wine is a favorite among locals and is often enjoyed in the city's best bars, where it is served alongside cicchetti.

The Appeal of Natural and Biodynamic Wines

In recent years, there has been a growing trend towards natural and biodynamic wines in Venice. These wines are produced with minimal intervention, resulting in a product that is more reflective of the terroir and the natural characteristics of the grapes. Many wine bars in Venice now feature these wines on their menus, catering to a clientele that is increasingly interested in organic and sustainable options.

The Role of Live Music

Live music is an integral part of the nightlife in Venice, with many bars offering performances by local musicians. Whether it's a jazz band playing in a cozy wine bar or a singer-songwriter performing in a more modern venue, the music adds to the overall atmosphere and makes for a more enjoyable evening. This is especially true in bars located near the Grand Canal, where the music often complements the stunning views.

The Tradition of Aperitivo

The tradition of aperitivo is alive and well in Venice, with many bars offering special menus during the early evening hours. This tradition involves enjoying a pre-dinner drink, often a spritz or a glass of wine, accompanied by small snacks. It's a social event that brings together friends, family, and even strangers, creating a sense of community that is central to Venetian culture.

The Popularity of Craft Cocktails

Craft cocktails have become increasingly popular in Venice, with many bars now offering unique, handcrafted drinks that combine traditional Italian ingredients with modern mixology techniques. Whether you're in the mood for a classic Negroni or a more adventurous concoction, you'll find no shortage of options in the city's best cocktail bars.

Come and Visit Do Draghi in Venice

If you're planning a trip to Venice and want to experience the best that the city's bar scene has to offer, be sure to include a visit to Do Draghi.

This bar, steeped in tradition yet modern in its offerings, is the perfect place to unwind after a day of exploring Venice. Whether you're in the mood for a glass of wine, a craft cocktail, or a plate of delicious cicchetti, Do Draghi has something for everyone. With its warm atmosphere, friendly patrons, and prime location, it's no wonder that this bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors alike.

So, when you're in Venice, don't miss the opportunity to stop by Do Draghi and experience the best of what this incredible city has to offer.

Bars in Venice: Everything you didn't know

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