When in Italy… have a cup of coffee

It’s bound to happen—while enjoying your holiday in Italy, somewhere between a stroll through the Roman Forum or a visit to the Sistine Chapel, you'll crave a little extra slice of Italian culture. Naturally, you'll find yourself at a charming Italian bar, ready to order a cappuccino. If it’s morning, you’re golden. But if you sit down at 5 p.m. and order that same cappuccino, the barista will immediately clock you as a tourist. Why? Because in Italy, ordering a cappuccino after 11:30 a.m. is nothing short of sacrilege.

To save yourself from such caffeinated faux pas, here's a quick guide on how to "have a coffee" like a true Italian.

First things first, ordering just a “coffee” in Italy means you’re getting a small but mighty cup of espresso, typically downed at the counter. This is your go-to brew, no frills, no extras.

But wait, there’s more! In the land of legendary coffee makers, variety is king—so don’t accidentally ask for a “frappuccino with cinnamon and cream” (that’s a dead giveaway).

Cappuccino is strictly a morning affair. It’s espresso in a larger cup with hot, foamed milk. Want to mix it up? Try it with cocoa on top, "tiepido" (not too hot), or even with chocolate topping.

Caffè-latte is another breakfast drink, served in a glass. Picture a full glass of warm milk with a shot of espresso added in. You can also have it cold, just ask.

And then there’s the marocchino, an anytime treat. Served in a cup slightly larger than an espresso, it’s a blend of espresso, a dash of cocoa, a spoonful of frothy milk, and more cocoa dusted on top. The original recipe even includes liquid chocolate swirled inside the cup for that extra indulgence.

Latte macchiato—essentially a glass of milk with a whisper of coffee suitable for breakfast time. It's lighter than caffè-latte and usually comes in a big glass. Perfect for when you want to drink warm milk with a slight coffee scent.

And now, presenting the star of the show: His Majesty, the Espresso! You can order this bold brew anytime. Want it even bolder? Try a ristretto (a shorter, stronger shot) or macchiato (with a splash of hot or cold milk). You can always have the americano, decaf (if you must), or even espresso corretto—a shot with a cheeky splash of liquor.

In Italy, coffee isn’t just a drink—it’s a lifestyle. Whether you’re grabbing a quick caffè with friends, taking a well-earned break, or subtly inviting someone on a casual date, “prendere un caffè” is the perfect excuse for a pause in your day. And let’s not forget the “philosophy” behind it. Some regions serve your coffee with water (a palate cleanser, naturally), while in Naples, they insist you drink the water first, so you prepare yourself for the shot of coffee.

This devotion to coffee explains why Italian brands have taken the world by storm. The first espresso machine? Born in Turin in 1884. Lavazza? A household name since 1895. And Illy? Launched in 1933—the same year the iconic moka pot was invented.

As for where to indulge, Italy’s historic cafés are the perfect blend of culture and caffeine. If you're in Turin, take a break from touring Piazza Castello and the Egyptian Museum to sip a bicerin at the famous café Bicerin. Or stroll to Piazza San Carlo for a delectable marocchino at Bar San Carlo—the perfect way to end a day of sightseeing.

Caffè San Carlo, Turin

In Venice, after marvelling at St. Mark’s Basilica or wandering through the Doge’s Palace, you absolutely need to take a seat at Caffè Florian in Piazza San Marco. Established in 1720, this iconic spot will make you feel like you've stepped into another era. Sip your coffee while gazing at photos of the famous faces who once frequented these tables—because, yes, even legends needed their caffeine fix.

Heading to Milan? Swing by Camparino, right next to the Duomo, for a cup of history (and maybe a spritz).

And when in Rome, make sure to visit Antico Caffè Greco, just steps from the Spanish Steps. Not only will you enjoy a fantastic coffee, but you’ll also get a peek at one of the most stunning private art collections inside this historic café. The price of your coffee? Consider it an all-inclusive ticket to culture and caffeine.

If you're looking for something a bit easier on the wallet, head to Caffè Sant’Eustachio near the Pantheon. The moment you walk through the door, the rich aroma of coffee beans from around the world will hit you like a warm embrace.

When it comes to Naples, coffee isn’t just a drink—it’s practically a religion. It’s no coincidence that the caffè napoletano has its own special brewing method, made in a unique pot you can still find in some shops around town. So, when you’re exploring Piazza del Plebiscito, make sure to stop by Gran Caffè Gambrinus. Founded shortly after Italy’s unification, this Belle Époque hotspot became the go-to for locals and European aristocrats alike. Grab a coffee here, and you’re sipping a cup steeped in history!

Whether you’re an art aficionado, a culture enthusiast, or a foodie at heart, picking the right coffee bar in Italy is crucial. Choose wisely, or you might end up missing out on way more than just a good cup of coffee!