Cafés to Visit in Italy

There is nothing quite like an Italian coffee bar. Beyond the treasures of art and architecture, the legacy of craftsmanship, the sublime cuisine, and the art of living la dolce vita, you have the experience of the café — the morning and afternoon coffee moments. If you have lived these rituals, you know what I'm talking about. If you haven't, book your ticket now.

An inspiration for the Starbucks locations that litter street corners across the globe, the Italian café experience is unmatched. Classic Italian baristas are skilled professionals — usually clad in white cotton coat and black tie. Licking the spoon after stirring sugar into an espresso, or ordering cappuccino after 11 a.m., really sets them off.

“There is a charm in the baristas' incredulity — they stand for something, and they let you know it.”

We've compiled a list of our favorites, in no special order. They span much of Italy — enough so that you will only ever be a pleasant train ride away.