St Mark’s Square Cafe Cost

For many, the chance to have a coffee, some breakfast or lunch, or an apertivo while listening to music in St Mark’s Square is one of the must do activities in Venice.

The price of coffee in Italy has gradually been rising post-covid, with an espresso rising from 1 euro to 1.50 or more in places like Milan. Likewise, a cappuccino can now cost 1.60 in smaller places to 2.80 or more in more touristy cities. To those who frequent Starbucks and the like this may seem cheap, but coffee is such a part of Italy’s cultural heritage and competition is so strong, it’s in the bar’s interest to keep prices cheaper otherwise people will go elsewhere.

Venice, on the other hand and certainly in the central area around St Mark’s Square, coffee prices can be stratospheric. So what are you paying for? The ambience, the location, the history and more – including music at some cafes.

The three most famous cafes in St Mark’s Square are Caffè Florian, Gran Caffè Quadri and Caffè Levena on the opposite side of the square. These are three of the most famous cafes in the world, beginning in 1720, 1750 and 1775.

Coffee prices will depend where you have your coffee. If you stand at the bar, it will be cheaper. If you sit at a table, it will be more expensive. With that said, here are some of the 2024 cafe prices.

Please note that we have left out Grand Caffe Chioggia which is in Piazzetta San Marco as they don’t appear to have a web page nor prices available to view.

For more on Venice’s historic St Mark’s Square cafes view the page here.