Ciao!
If you’re planning a trip to Rome and wondering “what should I experience in Italy to truly feel like a local,” let me gently push you toward aperitivo — the Italian pre-dinner drink tradition.
In Rome, dinner time is really late. In winter, people might start eating at 8:30pm, in summer it stretches to 9:30pm or even later.
So between 5pm and 8pm, this “pre-dinner time” becomes the most relaxing ritual for Romans:
Having a drink alone for some me time, catching up with friends, couples holding hands watching the sunset, or families with kids grabbing a bite together.
Aperitivo isn’t just about drinking — it’s a lifestyle attitude — letting the day’s fatigue slowly fade away, letting your heartbeat slow down with the sunset.
If you want to experience something different in Rome, try aperitivo.
Must-Try Aperitivo in Rome: What is Spritz?
If you’ve never tried Spritz, you really must order one when you come to Rome.
That golden, bubbly, slightly bitter-sweet cocktail is almost the symbol of Italian twilight.
Basic Spritz Recipe (the classic Aperol Spritz):
- Prosecco (Italy’s most popular sparkling wine)
- Aperol (orange bitter-sweet liqueur, fresh and light flavor)
- A splash of soda
- Orange slice garnish
Want something more grown-up?
Try Campari Spritz (swap Aperol for Campari), deeper red color, more pronounced bitterness, perfect for those who love deeper flavors.
A Little History
Spritz originally came from the Austrian rule in Northern Italy, when locals found Italian wine too strong and added some sparkling water to “spritz” (spray, dilute) it.
Later, Aperol and Campari were added, evolving into today’s classic.
Northern Italy prefers Aperol’s sweet orange flavor, while Southern Italy loves Campari’s bitterness — Rome is right in the middle, so both are delicious.
How Does Aperitivo Work in Rome? How Much Does It Cost?
Many bars charge only €6-8 for a single drink, but if you want some food to go with it, there’s usually a Happy Hour Aperitivo deal:
€10-12 gets you a drink + self-service snacks (olives, cheese, Italian cold cuts, fried foods, chips, bread, etc.).
Where’s the Best Place to Drink? My Personal Recommendation
Honestly, I never recommend any specific trendy bar.
For me, the best aperitivo is always:
- That corner shop near your accommodation
- Or wherever looks inviting when you’re walking during golden hour
Rome’s golden hour light is too beautiful — golden on ancient walls, with a cold Spritz and salty snacks, you suddenly feel “this is why I travel.”
If you don’t drink alcohol, that’s perfectly fine:
- Order a coke, sparkling water, or Italian Aranciata (the juice is super concentrated, it’s really good!)
- Kids can order juice
This relaxing moment is suitable for everyone, regardless of age or alcohol tolerance.
Quick Roman Drink Menu Cheat Sheet (Just Use It)
- Spritz Aperol: classic orange, crowd favorite
- Spritz Campari: more bitter, grown-up flavor
- Birra: beer (Moretti or Peroni most common)
- Prosecco: sparkling wine, alone or with juice for a Bellini
- Vino rosso / bianco: red / white wine
- Want sweeter: dolce
- Want drier: secco
Want to Keep This Moment Forever? Momento is Waiting
In Rome’s golden hour, sipping a Spritz, watching the sunset paint the city gold, listening to laughter beside you…
These moments are too beautiful, and too easy to let slip away.
If you want to turn them into forever memories, we’re here.
Momento uses photography to gently capture these relaxing moments, soft golden light, loving glances.
No poses, no pretense, just the real you.
Come to Rome, not just for food and ancient monuments, but also to give yourself an aperitivo, a slow moment, and a photo to last forever.
Buon aperitivo e ci vediamo a Roma ♡
