What is a Spritz? This popular apéritif found in Italy and popular in the Spring and Summer because of its refreshing taste. It is low in alcohol, aromatic with citrus, and slightly bitter. It is easy to make and perfect for any time of day or even any occasion. The orange vibrant color is unmistakable. It’s easily spotted on cafe tables when walking the streets of Italy… and made with one of my favorite things – prosecco!
We first enjoyed this amazing cocktail when we were in Parma, Italy for 90 days. I really didn’t know what to expect but once we had that first taste – we were hooked! It is an Italian tradition of sorts to enjoy after work when meeting with friends.
When in Venice
When we were visiting Venice, we noticed that in that city, they serve a Spritz with a lemon instead of an orange. Our waiter said that is how the Venetians enjoy their cocktail. I have to say, I prefer mine with a slice of orange.
Here’s the Easy Recipe
The recipe is very easy. Start by adding ice to the glass then pour in the Prosecco, and the Aperol and add a splash of soda. Top it with a slice of orange. Preparing it in this order avoids the Aperol settling at the bottom.
We like to enjoy our afternoon Spritz with some appetizers. When you order a Spritz in Italy they will usually serve it with some traditional snacks called ”Cicchetti”, small dishes that usually include tiny sandwiches, plates of olives, and tiny portions of local dishes. We have also had it served with popcorn and another cafe always served it with small slices of pizza.
The Aperol Spritz became popular in the 1950s, inspired by the Venetian mix of white wine and soda. Then in 1919, in Padua, Italy, Aperol was added as a liqueur alternative.
Located in some grocery stores in Italy is a ready-to-drink version containing only 8% alcohol which is less than the Aperol in the bottle which is at 11% alcohol.
On June 29, 2012, Aperol Spritz attempted (and succeeded) the Guinness World Record for the ‘Largest Aperol Spritz Toast’. More than 2,600 people went to Piazza San Marco in Venice to participate.
If you would like to try a Spritz a bit more bitter, try the Campari Spritz. It is a beautiful red color and has nearly double the alcohol content of Aperol. Then there’s a Hugo Spritz, a Lemon-Drop Spritz…
Our post on a twist… A Hugo Spritz
Let us know what you think when you have tried one!
Editor’s Note: This post was initially published in March 2018 and updated in February 2025 for accuracy and additional information.
I too love Aperol spritz or just a glass of Prosecco.
We have enjoyed Aperol spritzes in our travels around Italy. Two that come to mind were at Piazza Motta in Orta San Giulio and Caffe Florian in Venice. We had our first Limoncello spritz in a cafe in the Anfiteatro in Lucca in 2022 and have had many more all over Italy (and in San Marino!) and it is our favorite.
I started with the Aperol Spritz, but found the Hugo (oo-go) to be more refreshing for me.
I agree, Tom! If I’m having a few stomach issues, the Campari seems to do better for me… but there’s something very refreshing about a Hugo (and correct pronunciation, Tom!) with mint for the summer!
I love any spritz! Addicted to the Limoncello Spritz with a lemon slice and mint that I first had in Volterra.
Ohhhhh Cynthia – that sounds so good. Only had it once but definitely need to try it again! Thanks for commenting.
Certainly one of the top contributions to the afternoon social culture! We love our afternoon spritz as a base to the aperitivo. Myself, I prefer the Campari-based version and the wife prefers the Aprerol. We have both also enjoyed regional versions as we have traveled bel paese.
Thanks Angelo for your take on this subject. I can go either way (giggles). It is fun to try regional versions when traveling!! Thank you for your constant support of our blog.
The Aperol Spritz is one of my favorites as well. Looking forward to having several during my visit in October. Hope to meet up with you again also. Ev Theriault from Beverly, Massachusetts
While I like most any Spritz, I prefer the Campari and the Limoncello. When we were in Lucca for the month of September last year and went out for a Spritz, we usually were given potato chips! Sadly, not the snacks you listed. Also, did that pizza come from Lucca? If so, please tell me the name of the place. Shari and Bob
Thanks, Shari – great to hear from you again, and I always appreciate the great comments. Potato chips are a staple. Some places go a bit above that. I think the pizza one was down by the Duomo, but all places change every so often. Difficult to say for sure.