7 Best Bars in Italy

The sign above the door simply says "CAFFÈ," but it has long since been called "Bar Rosso" for its bright-red exterior. The ideal people-watching spot on one of the busiest campos, it has far more tables outside than inside. A favorite with students and faculty from the nearby university, it's a good place to start the day with coffee and croissant, or later to enjoy a drink.

This bar may be the best place in the city to sample la dolce vita. Celebrities, blue bloods, and VIPs hang out in the gorgeous Piazzetta Valadier where cocktails are well above par. There's also a selection of coffees, teas, healthy smoothies, and a full food menu if you need to refuel. It's especially popular for aperitivo, when canapés are served alongside the drinks.

Although this popular place consists only of a kiosk set up to serve some outdoor tables, it is located on the Zattere and thus provides a wonderful view of Giudecca Canal. It's a handy meet-up spot for locals, especially students from the nearby university, and a useful stop-off for tourists in nice weather for a spritz or a panino. Keep in mind, though, that "the kiosk" exists for quick refreshments and not for lingering. The view and the sunshine (and especially the sunset) are the main draw; the food and drink, while acceptable, are not exceptional.

A friendly, family-run Irish pub opened since 1980, overseen by two labradors named Guinness and Gin, serves an ample selection of beers, spirits (excellent gin choice, naturally), and cocktails (mojito by the jug). They also do decent food (classic pasta and pizza are mainstays) and show live televised sports.

A year-round indoor-outdoor operation (with heat lamps), this bar is extremely popular with thirtysomethings, sometimes pushing baby carriages. Its large menu includes raw oysters. There's also a dining room upstairs.

Conveniently close to MAXXI and the Auditorium Parco della Musica, this hip lounge serves classic and creative cocktails as well as light bites in a two-story space with tables on the mezzanine and low sofas on the ground floor. The tapas-style menu is international, with offerings like guacamole and hummus, in addition to the popular maritozzo salato, a savory version of the Roman bun filled with tuna instead of cream, and a few heartier options, including a burger. Food is served until 1 am every night, and brunch is available on weekends.

Set on a private terrace overlooking Trastevere, Ombre Rosse bustles with expats and other regulars who appreciate the cocktail creations and the ever-lively atmosphere. On weekends, the outdoor patio is the perfect spot to enjoy an aperitivo and nibbles before finishing off an evening with friends at the bar.