Venice Bar: How to choose the perfect one?

Venice, with its labyrinth of canals and charming alleys, is one of the most iconic and romantic cities in the world. As the sun sets and the city takes on a magical glow, the bars of Venice become the perfect spots to create unforgettable memories.

Whether you’re a local or a visitor, choosing the right bar can significantly enhance your experience in the City of Canals. This guide will help you navigate the enchanting world of Venice bars and find the one that suits you best.

Why choose Venice Bars at night?

The enchantment of Venice after dark

When it comes to experiencing Venice by night, the city's bars offer a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in local culture. By day, Venice is bustling with tourists flocking to its famous landmarks and museums, but by night, the city transforms into a more intimate and relaxed setting. Venice bars, tucked away in alleys and along the canals, become havens where you can savor Venetian life away from the crowds.

Authentic experiences

One of the main reasons Venice bars are so special is the authentic experience they provide. Many bars serve cicchetti, traditional Venetian snacks, alongside a glass of wine or a spritz, the city’s signature drink. Enjoying these local flavors in a Venice bar allows you to dive deep into Venetian culinary culture, giving you a genuine taste of the city that’s hard to find elsewhere.

A diverse range of offerings

Venice bars are not just places to drink; they are hubs of social interaction, cultural discovery, and in many cases, historical exploration. Some bars offer stunning views of the canals, while others are hidden in secret courtyards, providing a more intimate experience. Each Venice bar has its own unique vibe, from lively spots with live music to quiet retreats where you can relax with a fine glass of wine.

How many Bars are there in Venice?

A surprisingly large number of bars

Despite its relatively small size, Venice boasts an impressive number of bars. This is due to the city’s rich tradition of socializing in bacari, small bars where Venetians gather to drink and enjoy cicchetti. These establishments can range from cozy spots with a few seats to larger bars with terraces overlooking the canals, spread across the entire city.

Traditional and modern Bars

Venice offers a mix of traditional and modern bars, each with its own character and style. Traditional bars, or bacari, are often small and cozy, with wooden interiors and a wide selection of local wines. Modern bars, on the other hand, may feature contemporary designs, innovative cocktails, and a younger, more international crowd. Both types of bars contribute to Venice’s vibrant social and cultural scene, offering visitors a wide array of experiences.

Bars across the Sestieri

The bars are spread across Venice’s six sestieri (districts): San Marco, Cannaregio, Castello, Dorsoduro, San Polo, and Santa Croce. Each sestiere has its own personality, and the bars within them reflect the character of their respective neighborhoods. For instance, bars in San Marco tend to be more upscale and tourist-oriented, while those in Cannaregio and Castello are more frequented by locals.

What types of Bars are there in Venice?

Bacari: The heart of venetian tradition

Bacari are perhaps the most iconic type of bar in Venice. These small, intimate spots are perfect for a quick aperitif or a light meal. Bacari are characterized by their rustic and cozy atmosphere, where you can enjoy cicchetti paired with a glass of wine or a spritz. The cicchetti can range from simple crostini with baccalà mantecato (creamy cod) to more elaborate dishes, depending on the bacaro you choose.

Enoteche: For wine lovers

Enoteche are bars that specialize in wine. With Venice’s proximity to the Veneto wine region, these bars offer a vast selection of local wines. Enoteche are ideal for those looking to discover new wines and deepen their oenological knowledge. Many enoteche also offer guided tastings, where you can learn more about the history and characteristics of the local wines.

Cocktail Bars: Creativity and mixology

In recent years, the cocktail scene in Venice has flourished. These bars, often located in chic and trendy spots, offer innovative cocktails crafted with high-quality ingredients. Mixology has become an art form in these establishments, where bartenders create custom cocktails tailored to each customer’s taste. If you’re a cocktail enthusiast, a Venice bar of this kind could be your perfect match.

Bars with a view: stunning scenery

Another popular type of bar in Venice is the bar with a view. These establishments are often located on rooftops or along the canals, offering breathtaking vistas of the city. Enjoying a drink while watching the sunset over Venice is a unique and unforgettable experience. If you want to combine the beauty of the city with a great cocktail or a glass of wine, a Venice bar with a view is the ideal choice.

Bars with live music: For culture enthusiasts

If you love live music, Venice has a selection of bars that offer musical performances, often featuring jazz or classical music. These bars combine a cozy atmosphere with high-quality entertainment, creating an enriching cultural experience. Many of these venues are frequented by both tourists and locals, making them perfect places to mingle with Venetians and enjoy an evening of music and fun.

Fun facts about Venice Bars

The tradition of the Spritz

The spritz is one of Venice’s most iconic drinks, with a history that dates back to the 19th century when the city was part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. The Austrians, finding Venetian wine too strong, diluted it with sparkling water, creating the base of the spritz. Today, the spritz is one of the most popular drinks in Venice bars, typically made with prosecco, Aperol or Campari, and a splash of soda.

Cicchetti and the culture of snacking

One of the most beloved traditions in Venice bars is that of cicchetti, small bites of food served with a glass of wine or a spritz. These snacks can include a wide range of ingredients, such as fish, meat, cheese, and vegetables, often served on small slices of bread. The tradition of cicchetti makes Venice bars the perfect places for a relaxing aperitif or an informal dinner.

Historic Bars and their architecture

Many of Venice’s bars are housed in historic buildings that date back centuries. Stepping into one of these bars often means stepping into a different era, with frescoed ceilings, mosaic floors, and antique furnishings. These venues are not just bars, but pieces of history where you can savor the old-world charm of Venice, surrounded by architectural and artistic beauty.

The importance of the Bacaro Tour

The "bacaro tour" is a popular tradition in Venice, enjoyed by both locals and tourists. It involves hopping from one bacaro to another, sampling cicchetti and drinking wine or spritz at each stop. This experience allows you to explore different bars in one night, each with its own atmosphere and specialties. Participating in a bacaro tour is a great way to discover the city and experience the authentic culture of Venice bars.

Venetian mixology drinks

In recent years, mixology has become increasingly popular in Venice, leading to the rise of cocktail bars that blend Venetian tradition with modern, innovative techniques. Many Venetian bartenders are now considered true artists of mixology, creating cocktails that tell a story, often inspired by the city itself. In the most cutting-edge Venice bars, you can enjoy unique cocktails that reflect the rich history and culture of Venice, made with local ingredients and innovative techniques.

The seasonal charm of Venice Bars

Summer Bars

During the summer, Venice comes alive with outdoor bars and terraces that offer the chance to enjoy a drink under the stars. Venice bars in the summer are often located along the canals or in piazzas, providing a vibrant and festive atmosphere. During this season, many bars serve refreshing, light cocktails, perfect for cooling down on warm Venetian evenings.

Winter Bars

In winter, Venice bars transform into cozy refuges from the cold. With crackling fireplaces and warm decor, these venues offer the perfect setting to sip a glass of red wine or a spiced cocktail. Venice bars in winter often serve hot drinks like mulled wine, creating an intimate and relaxed atmosphere, ideal for those chilly nights.

Bars during the Venice Carnival

The Venice Carnival is one of the most famous events in the world, and the city’s bars play a crucial role in the celebration. During Carnival, many bars host special events, themed nights, and masquerade parties. Venice bars become gathering spots for those looking to enjoy the festive atmosphere of Carnival, with colorful cocktails and live entertainment.

Exploring Venice's vibrant Bar scene: From cozy Wine Bars to lively beach spots

Whether you're exploring Venice's charming alleys or lounging by Venice Beach, finding the perfect spot to relax and unwind is key to making the most of your time. From a tiny bar tucked away in a historic corner to a bustling Venice Beach bar with a view of the ocean, there's no shortage of options for every mood and occasion. Picture yourself sipping a refreshing cocktail at a Venice bar as you enjoy the live music and lively atmosphere on a Saturday night.

For a more laid-back experience, a classic wine bar offering a curated wine list and delicious bar food can provide the perfect setting for a relaxed evening with friends. If you're in the mood for a fun night out, consider hitting up one of the best bars in town, where you can grab a few drinks, enjoy good beer, and taste seasonal ingredients in creative dishes.

Whether you're seeking the vibrant ambiance of dive bars or the cool, welcoming atmosphere of a cocktail bar, Venice has it all. A true speakeasy might be tucked away in a hidden corner, while a spacious tavern might offer a full bar and a great selection of drinks and bar stools for larger groups. For those who prefer a quieter setting, a Venice beach bar can provide a more relaxed environment with sunset views and comfortable seating.

If you’re out for a fun Sunday afternoon or a lively Friday night, the range of bars in Venice, from classic to modern, ensures there's always something to suit your taste. For those planning an evening out, a reservation at a venue known for its history and lively crowd might be just the thing, while a walk through town could lead you to a cool spot with a packed bar and a great vibe. Enjoying a delicious meal, whether it's bar food or a full dinner, alongside your favorite drink, will surely make your visit memorable. From young professionals enjoying happy hour to patrons savoring a bottle of wine, Venice’s bars offer a diverse and engaging experience for everyone.

Discover Bar Do Draghi in Venice

If you’re looking for an authentic and unforgettable experience in Venice, don’t miss the chance to visit Bar Do Draghi. Located in a prime spot, this bar offers a welcoming ambiance and a unique atmosphere that truly captures the essence of the city. With a selection of high-quality drinks, delicious cicchetti, and friendly service, Bar Do Draghi is the perfect place to unwind and enjoy the evening.

Whether you’re in the mood for an aperitif, an informal dinner, or simply a place to sip a drink with a view of the canals, Bar Do Draghi will provide you with an experience you won’t forget. Its cozy atmosphere and expert staff will make you feel right at home, making your evening in Venice even more special. Don’t miss out on one of the best Venice bars—let yourself be charmed by the magic of Bar Do Draghi.