Many people cannot function until they get their first coffee of the day into them and could not survive without coffee in their life every day. As a result, coffee is a serious business in most parts of the world. Each country also tends to have its own distinct coffee culture and this is very much the case in Italy. Not only is Italy famous for great coffee, it is famous for its unique coffee culture. So, if you are a coffee-lover and you are booking a holiday rental in Italy, here’s what you need to know about the local coffee scene.
1. Look for “Bars”
You will see signs for bars all over Italy but these aren’t usually for alcoholic beverages (though some may be)! Bars generally refer, instead, to coffee spots in Italy.
2. On the Fly
The reason they are referred to as bars? Most people in Italy grab an espresso from their local coffee establishment and have it while standing at the bar. For breakfast, many will eat a pastry with their coffee while they lean at the bar and then in the afternoon people tend to grab an espresso at the bar as a quick break from work and a pick-me-up. Larger cafés have seating areas that can be enjoyed if you are chatting with companions and these are ideal for tourists who have the time to relax but if you are on vacation in Rome (or anywhere else in Italy) and want to do as the Romans do, then you should have your coffee at the bar and get back to things! Plus, there are generally two prices: the less expensive al banco price and the more expensive al tavolo price, though these aren’t wildly different.
3. Coffee is inexpensive
Many are used to elaborate and expensive coffee drinks and orders but in Italy, it tends to be simpler and much less costly. While you may find some international chains and cafes offering these sorts of complicated coffees in bigger towns or cities, local places will be selling an espresso for around one euro and a cappuccino for a couple of euros. Of course, prices may be higher in touristy areas but if you are going where the locals go during your stay in one of our villas in Italy, then expect a bargain.
4. Know what you are ordering!
Also keep in mind that coffee orders are slightly different in Italy and that lots of coffee terms come from Italian but are now used differently elsewhere. As we have said, the more elaborate drinks are likely off the table but you also probably won’t be able to ask for a range of milk alternatives and other extras in local coffee shops, especially in smaller towns. Furthermore, if you ask for a latte, you’re just going to get milk, as this is the Italian word for milk. Instead, ask for a caffè con latte. Other than the espresso, cappuccino, and the caffè con latte, other commonly available options include: a caffè ristretto (a more “intense” espresso), a caffè lungo (a long espresso), a caffè shakerato (a cold coffee shaken like a cocktail with ice that is served during the hotter months of the year), and a crema di caffè (also served during the warmer months, this drink is made cold and with cream and is almost like a glass of coffee-flavoured gelato).
5. Pay, then drink
Most places that serve coffee in Italy will take your payment and then you will need to bring your receipt to the counter to order – don’t lose it or you won’t get your coffee!
Now that you are equipped to get your coffee fix and sample some of the best coffee in the world, what are you waiting for? Book your vacation rental in Italy today and come experience the coffee culture of this coffee hotspot for yourself!