I have a low tolerance for bad coffee, even when I’m on vacation. Sadly, enjoying coffee in Italy goes beyond just indulging in one heavenly espresso after another. Fortunately, Venice boasts a rich coffee culture and is home to the oldest coffee house in Europe. If you’re in search of the finest coffee experience in La Serenissima, there are several specialty coffee spots worth visiting.
Italy has a rich coffee tradition, and it’s quite possible that the country’s love affair with caffè began in Venice. Historically, the city functioned as a significant trading port, bridging Europe with the Middle East and Asia. This unique position made it easy to import various goods, including coffee beans. As early as the 16th century, Venetians began to embrace coffee, thanks to their vibrant trade networks. Notably, trade with the Ottoman Empire significantly influenced the introduction of coffee to the city.
You don’t need to be a historian to enjoy a great cup of coffee in Venice. Depending on your location (and how many canals you’re willing to cross), there are numerous cafes to discover. These range from traditional pastry shops to specialty coffee establishments, local roasters, and elegantly appointed high-end cafes. Here are some of my favorite places to get coffee in Venice.
- Torrefazione Cannaregio: Nestled in the Cannaregio district (my personal favorite area in this enchanting city), Torrefazione Cannaregio is a beloved coffee roastery and café established in 1930. They focus on sourcing and roasting premium coffee beans. Additionally, they have a charming seating area along the water (though keep in mind that this canal isn’t the most enclosed if you’re visiting with children). There’s also comfortable indoor seating. This is where I buy beans to take home as well.
- Caffé del Doge: With several locations throughout Venice, including one near St. Mark’s Square, Caffé del Doge is celebrated for its superb coffee. They carefully select and blend their beans, ensuring you receive an exquisite cup every time. The café is often bustling, but the knowledgeable baristas can assist you in finding the perfect brew to match your taste. I slightly prefer the Cannaregio location as it’s closer to the train station and generally quieter, despite its limited seating. However, I often find myself at the Rialto location after exploring the Rialto Market.
- Caffé Florian: Be prepared for sticker shock at Caffé Florian, as the price for a coffee can be quite high. Located in the iconic St. Mark’s Square, Caffé Florian is one of the oldest coffee houses in the world, established in 1720. It’s famous for its sophisticated atmosphere, live music, and exceptional service. Typically, there is a line outside, but you can often slip in for a quick coffee at the bar in the back. Nevertheless, the charm of Caffé Florian lies in its lavish decor and the picturesque outdoor seating overlooking the square. It may be worth splurging the 13 euros for coffee to enjoy the surroundings (though to be honest, I usually treat myself to their rich hot chocolate for a taste of indulgence).
- Pasticceria Tonolo: For a completely different experience from Florian’s, visit Pasticceria Tonolo. This quaint pastry shop is tucked away from the tourist crowds and lacks seating, but you can enjoy delicious sweets while standing at the bar, sipping a beautifully petite cup of espresso. The espresso cups are delightfully charming! The pleasant acidity of the coffee pairs perfectly with the decadent chocolate cakes they are renowned for.
Keep in mind that prices in Venice are generally higher than in Rome or Florence, so don’t expect to find coffees for just 1 euro here. However, if you’re looking to save a bit, you can always choose to sip your coffee at the counter instead of sitting down. Table service is usually pricier—sometimes significantly so.
While coffee is always a good idea, you might find that by late morning in Venice, it’s perfectly acceptable to switch to a spritz. Go ahead and enjoy your time!
If you’re seeking excellent coffee further south, check out where to find the best coffee in Rome.
