Caffè Florian, Venice

Café in Venice

Venezia Caffe Florian
Venezia Caffe Florian
© Giovanni Dall'Orto

Caffè Florian sits under the arches of the Procuratie Nuove on Piazza San Marco, and it feels less like a café and more like a living piece of Venice. You come for the coffee, but you stay for the sense of ceremony: silver trays, mirrored rooms, painted ceilings, and that unmistakable hum of St Mark's Square right outside the windows.

Founded in 1720, it is an easy stop to fold into a day in the centre, and this spot is one of the top sights in Venice if you like places where history is still doing its day job. It also fits naturally into a walking tour of Venice, especially as a mid-morning reset or a late-afternoon pause when the square's atmosphere shifts from tour-group pace to evening elegance.

History and Significance of the Caffè Florian

Caffè Florian opened on 29 December 1720 with the name Alla Venezia Trionfante, but it quickly became known by the owner's name, Florian, and the nickname stuck for three centuries. What makes it special is continuity: it has remained an operating coffee house through changing empires, shifting fashions, and the reinvention of Venice as a global destination.

From early on it attracted writers, artists, and travelers, and it gained a reputation as a social crossroads rather than an exclusive club. One of its most famous early quirks was that it welcomed women at a time when many coffee houses did not, which helped turn it into a more mixed, modern-feeling meeting place for its era.

The interiors you see today reflect later expansions and restorations, especially in the 19th century, when new themed rooms were created and the café became tied to political and cultural life. The Sala del Senato is often mentioned in connection with Venice’s patriotic circles during the Risorgimento period, and the idea of Florian as a place where conversation mattered is part of its enduring mythology.

Things to See and Do in the Caffè Florian

The essential experience is simple: take a seat inside, order something classic, and let the setting do the rest. The rooms are richly decorated and distinctly Venetian in mood-ornate without being kitsch-and even a quick espresso feels like you’re borrowing someone else’s more glamorous century for half an hour.

If the weather is good, sitting under the arcades or on the terrace is prime for people-watching, especially as Piazza San Marco shifts throughout the day. When live music is playing outside, Florian becomes part café, part small concert hall, and the square's atmosphere feels unusually cinematic.

To make it feel less like a pricey impulse stop, go with a purpose: choose one signature drink or dessert, take your time, and treat it as a cultural experience rather than “just coffee.” It’s also an ideal place to pause between major sights, because you can step out and be right back in the heart of the square within seconds.

How to Get to the Caffè Florian

Caffè Florian is on Piazza San Marco under the Procuratie Nuove, so once you reach St Mark's Square you are essentially there. The easiest approach on foot is to navigate toward the Basilica and Campanile, then follow the arcades along the square until you see the Florian frontage.

By vaporetto, the most convenient stops are San Marco Vallaresso and San Zaccaria, followed by a short walk into the square. If you are arriving from the mainland by bus, you will come into Piazzale Roma and then continue by vaporetto or on foot toward San Marco.

The nearest airports are Venice Marco Polo (VCE) and Treviso (TSF). For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Venice on Booking.com.
If you arrive by train at Venezia Santa Lucia, take vaporetto Line 1 for a scenic approach or Line 2 for a faster run toward the San Marco area. Use Omnio to easily compare schedules, book train tickets, and find the best prices all in one place for a hassle-free journey across Italy..
If you’re coming by car, park at Piazzale Roma or Tronchetto and continue into the historic centre by vaporetto or on foot. If you are looking to rent a car in Italy I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you..

Practical Tips on Visiting the Caffè Florian

  • Entrance fee: Free entry; Caffè Americano. €6.00
  • Opening hours: Sunday – Thursday: 09:00–20:00.
    Friday – Saturday: 09:00–23:00.
  • Official website: https://caffeflorian.com/en/
  • Best time to visit: Aim for mid-morning for a calmer indoor experience, or early evening if you want the square to feel more theatrical and lively.
  • How long to spend: Budget 30-60 minutes; it’s most enjoyable when you can slow down and let the setting sink in.
  • Accessibility: Piazza San Marco is flat and straightforward to reach once you're nearby, but Venice's bridges and uneven paving on the approach can be tiring, so plan a simple route.
  • Facilities: Expect table service and a polished, formal feel; restrooms exist but are primarily for customers, and it’s best to assume you’ll linger rather than pop in and out.

Where to Stay Close to the Caffè Florian

For a culture-heavy itinerary, base yourself in San Marco so you can walk to the main sights early and late; if you prefer a slightly calmer base with a more local evening rhythm, choose Cannaregio and commute in by foot or vaporetto.

If you want to be steps from Piazza San Marco, Hotel Concordia gives you maximum proximity and an unmistakably central feel. For a refined base a short walk from the square with strong comfort and service, Splendid Venice - Starhotels Collezione is a reliable choice. If you like being close to La Fenice and the shopping streets while still walking easily to Florian, Hotel Saturnia & International is a practical, classic option.

Is the Caffè Florian Worth Visiting?

Yes, if you treat it as a Venice experience rather than a value-for-money coffee stop. You are paying for atmosphere, service, and a front-row seat to Piazza San Marco's theatre, and it's most satisfying when you slow down, order something you'll remember, and enjoy the setting on its own terms.

For Different Travelers

Families with Kids

This can work well with kids if you frame it as a short “fancy break” rather than a long sit-down, and if you go at a quieter time when the rooms feel less formal. Sharing a pastry or hot chocolate is often the simplest way to make it feel special without turning it into a test of patience.

If your children are very young or restless, consider sitting under the arcades rather than deep inside, so you can step out quickly and keep the visit light. Pair it with a nearby open-air wander (the waterfront by the Doge's Palace side is ideal) so the café becomes a pleasant pause, not the main event.

Couples & Romantic Getaways

For couples, Florian is at its best as an unhurried moment with a bit of ceremony-especially late afternoon into early evening when the square feels more atmospheric. The setting practically invites a slower pace, and it’s one of those places where conversation comes easily because you’re surrounded by so much visual detail.

To keep it romantic rather than stressful, go with a simple plan: one drink each, a shared dessert, and enough time to linger. Afterward, step out for a slow walk around the quiet edges behind San Marco, where the mood changes quickly once you leave the square.

Budget Travelers

Florian can still be worth it on a budget if you treat it as a single, intentional splurge rather than an everyday café. The best strategy is to choose one item you genuinely want to try, sit for a short, satisfying amount of time, and then move on to cheaper cicchetti and espresso stops elsewhere.

If the menu prices feel like too much, you can still appreciate Florian from the outside as part of the Piazza San Marco experience, then save your money for museums and transport. Think of it as a “pay for the memory” stop, not a routine caffeine fix.

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

3.9 (7,055)

Caffè Florian, located at P.za San Marco 57 in Venice, is an ornate, historic café known for its Neo-Baroque interiors and long-running operation since the 1700s; visitors praise the nostalgic atmosphere, live music and views of St. Mark's Square, note friendly, prompt service and a small shop inside, and recommend items like cappuccino, affogato, hot chocolate, pastries and sandwiches—while several reviewers warn it can be expensive, with extra charges for sitting outside during music and notable cover fees adding to the bill.

Nerazzurri
a month ago
"Nice Coffee, But ExpensivenThe cappuccino was really good—smooth, rich, and served with a small chocolate truffle with a whole coffee bean, which wasa nice touch. The place has a lot of history, and you can feel it in the atmosphere. That said, 12 euros for a cup of coffee feels a bit much. You're definitely paying for the experience and the location. It's a nice treat if you're in the area, but not something I'd make a regular stop for because of the price...."
N Williams
3 months ago
"Nice cafe with a lot of history. It’s had a lot of famous guests through its doors and has been in continuous operation since 1720’s. Our experiencewas a pleasant one, we decided to sit outside due to the good weather conditions and the live music that was playing and managed to get a view of St.Marks Square from our table. Thing to note is that you do have to pay a charge for siting outside while the music is playing of €7 per person. I feel this is a little steep as a small family that is seeking to attend could end up paying nearly €30 before they have even ordered anything. We ordered two cocktails at €24 and €25 each along with a cappuccino which cost €12 and the waiter brought complimentary crisps and water for the table. This added with the €14 music charge resulted in a total of €75. A little expensive for what we had but with the atmosphere and location the cost of the drinks can be expected. We were served quickly and after our order was taken it arrived about 10 minutes later. When we arrived there were only about 2-3 tables available so it was somewhat crowded. We ventured inside to where the small rooms were located to have a look around and view the little shop which sold snacks and merchandise. The decor of the interior is very impressive and has managed to keep its charm from its begi ings it seems. If you’re after a couple of drinks while in the Square I would recommend however if you’re not directly in the area there are other places that will offer a similar experience at half the price...."
Pao M
a month ago
"Got the chance to dine at one of the oldest coffee shop in Italy & in the world. Caffè Florian, opened on December 29, 1720, is the oldest coffeehouse in Italy, located in St. Mark's Square in Venice. Staffs were friendly & accommodating, service is fast too. We were seated inside & it feels nostalgic to be inside a 305 years old cafe. We had affogato & hot chocolate & it's the best despite the price still worth a visit. We had tuna sandwich as well & its good...."

FAQs for Visiting Caffè Florian

Getting There

It’s under the arcades of the Procuratie Nuove on Piazza San Marco, right in the heart of the historic centre. Once you reach St Mark’s Square, you’re already essentially at the doorstep.
Walk south toward Piazza San Marco via the Mercerie shopping lanes, which are busy but straightforward. When you enter the square, follow the arcades until you see Florian’s frontage.
Take a vaporetto toward the San Marco area, then walk a few minutes into Piazza San Marco. If you prefer walking, it’s doable but slower and more prone to wrong turns unless you enjoy navigating backstreets.
There’s no parking in the historic centre, so driving only gets you as far as Piazzale Roma or Tronchetto. It’s usually simplest to commit to vaporetto and walking once you’re in Venice.

Tickets & Entry

There’s no ticket because it’s a café, but seating can be competitive at peak times. If you have your heart set on a particular time, checking reservation options or visiting off-peak is sensible.
Policies can vary by season and seating area, but you should assume you’ll be expected to order at least one item per person. If you only want a quick look, keep it short and courteous and order something simple.
When musicians are playing on the terrace, there may be an added music or service supplement on top of menu prices. If you want the atmosphere without the surcharge, choose indoor seating or visit earlier in the day.

Visiting Experience

Go in with a single, clear plan-one drink and one sweet-then allow yourself time to sit and look around. It’s more satisfying when you treat it as a cultural pause rather than a checklist stop.
Yes, because it’s directly on Piazza San Marco and doesn’t require a detour. Keep it time-boxed so it complements your day rather than crowding out major sights.
Pair it with St Mark’s Basilica, the Doge’s Palace exterior, and a waterfront stroll toward the Riva degli Schiavoni. This creates a tight loop with maximum atmosphere and minimal transit.

Photography

Yes, especially for interior details like mirrors, frescoed rooms, and the classic café set-up with silver service. A quick, discreet photo works best; avoid turning the space into a photoshoot.
Morning gives you cleaner views in Piazza San Marco before crowds peak. Early evening is best for mood, with warmer light and a more theatrical atmosphere in the square.
It’s generally fine to take casual photos, but be respectful of other guests and staff. If in doubt, ask or keep it minimal and unobtrusive.

Accessibility & Facilities

Piazza San Marco itself is flat, and the arcades are straightforward once you are there. The harder part is Venice’s approach routes with bridges and uneven paving, so choose a simple vaporetto-to-square route.
Yes, but expect them to be for café guests rather than general public use. It’s best to plan your visit as a proper stop where you sit and order, not a quick facilities break.
It can be, but tighter spaces and a more formal ambience mean a quieter time of day is easier. If you need flexibility, terrace or arcade seating tends to feel less restrictive.

Food & Breaks Nearby

Choose a traditional coffee and a pastry or dessert so you experience the ritual without over-ordering. If you want to make it feel distinctive, opt for something that feels like a “Florian moment” rather than a basic espresso.
Step away from Piazza San Marco into the side streets toward Castello or San Polo for better-value cicchetti and simpler trattorias. Even a five-minute walk can change both the prices and the crowd level.

Safety & Timing

Yes, it’s one of the most monitored and well-trafficked areas in Venice. As always in busy tourist zones, keep belongings secure and be mindful in dense crowds.
Morning is calmer and often feels more relaxed for interiors and photos. Late afternoon into evening is best for ambience, especially if you enjoy live music and the square’s evening glow.

Nearby Attractions to the Caffè Florian

  • St Mark's Basilica - Venice's iconic mosaic-filled basilica, an essential stop for art and atmosphere on the square.
  • Doge's Palace - The former seat of Venetian power, with grand Gothic architecture and a strong sense of the Republic's scale.
  • Campanile di San Marco - The bell tower viewpoint that delivers one of the best overviews of Venice's rooftops and lagoon.
  • Museo Correr - A museum facing the square that adds context on Venice's history, art, and civic identity.
  • Bridge of Sighs - A short walk away and best appreciated as part of a waterfront loop around the Palazzo Ducale area.

The Caffè Florian appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Venice!

Moira & Andy
Moira & Andy

Hey! We're Moira & Andy. From hiking the Camino to trips around Europe in Bert our campervan — we've been traveling together since retirement in 2020!

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Planning Your Visit

Hours:

Sunday - Thursday: 09:00-20:00.

Friday - Saturday: 09:00-23:00.

Price:

Free entry; Caffè Americano. €6.00

Address: Caffè Florian, Piazza San Marco, Venice, Metropolitan City of Venice, Italy
Venice: 0 km
Official Website

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