Venice, the city of canals, gondolas, and old-world charm, has a hidden gem among its maze-like piazzas and alleyways: a vibrant and clandestine nightlife. Hidden beneath the throngs of tourists, the city holds a list of secret bars that provide travelers with a glimpse of history, experimentation, and romance.

These bars are not merely places to order a drink; they are entrances into Venice's enigmatic spirit, each with its own tale and personality.

Venice's hidden bars have something for every taste, ranging from upscale cocktail clubs to cozy osterias and speakeasy-like hideaways. As a cocktail connoisseur, wine aficionado, or someone looking for that special place to unwind, this guide uncovers seven of Venice's best-kept secrets.

Soak in the underground nightlife of the city, perfect for adventure-lovers who appreciate immersion and privacy.

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List of Hidden Bard in Venice

1. Il Mercante

Overview: Tucked away close to the iconic Ponte dei Frari, Il Mercante is a hidden gem in Venice nightlife. This bar stands out for its elegant, warm ambiance and menu that is more of a passport to the world. The two-story bar boasts old-world charm and modern furnishings, perfect for a destination for a memorable night.

Signature Cocktails: Il Mercante's specialty cocktail lists are a world-inspired masterpiece with exotic ingredients and edible art. Each cocktail is carefully crafted, ranging from fruit-based, tropical cocktails to spirit-based, smoky cocktails.

Why Go: The sophisticated atmosphere, cocktail-educated bartenders, and creative cocktails bring Il Mercante to the top among cocktail lovers looking for an increased experience in Venice. The attention to drink storytelling by the bar makes every visit personalized.

Pro Tip: Chat with the bartenders to listen to the story of the inspiration for their signature cocktail. They can tell the story behind each one and tailor recommendations based on taste.

Opening Hours: Daily from 5:00 PM to 12:30 AM.

Address: Close to Ponte dei Frari, Dorsoduro district. 

2. Al Prosecco

Overview: Hidden away in tranquil Campo San Giacomo dell'Orio, Al Prosecco is heaven for wine enthusiasts. The classy bar specializes in organic and biodynamic prosecco, with an expertly curated selection of the best examples of Venetian winemaking heritage. Its cozy patio seating in the campo is the perfect spot to soak up local ambience.

Signature Services: Guests can indulge in prosecco, Italian wines, and cicchetti (Venetian bites) from the area. The bar is particularly renowned for its ability to pair quality wines with fresh fruits, offering an authentic taste of the area.

Why Go: Its off-the-beaten-path location and emphasis on natural wines are just some of the reasons locals and intrepid travelers love Al Prosecco. The laid-back atmosphere offers a warm insight into Venice's aperitivo culture sans tourists.

Pro Tip: Go in aperitivo time (between 6:00 and 8:00 PM) and experience a lively yet casual Venetian evening. Try prosecco with their handcrafted cicchetti for an authentic taste.

Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM; Monday, closed.

Address: Campo San Giacomo dell'Orio, district Santa Croce.  

To find Al Prosecco, use veniceXplorer's Interactive Map

3. Bacaro Risorto

Description: Located in the charming Castello neighborhood, Bacaro Risorto is a contemporary take on the traditional Venetian bacaro. Unassuming in its small size, this bar has won the hearts of tourists and locals alike because of its contemporary but warm atmosphere.

Signature Offerings: The menu includes a selection of spritzes, wines native to the region, and creative small plates paying tribute to Venetian cuisine. Signature offerings such as their Aperol Spritz, through creative spin and innovative take on classic Cicchetti, illustrate the bar's creativity.

Why Go: Bacaro Risorto combines tradition and modern style with panache to create a refreshing experience for clientele. Its modern ambiance and progressive menu make it an absolute find for visitors experiencing the lively Castello district.

Pro Tip: Don't omit sampling their modern take on traditional Aperol Spritz. Combine it with their seasonal cicchetti for a refreshing and satisfying dinner.

Opening Times: Open every day from 10:30 AM until 11:30 PM.

Location: Castello district, area Arsenale di Venezia.

4. Devil's Forest Pub

Summary: A short throw from frenetic Rialto Bridge, Devil's Forest Pub imports British pub culture into the heart of Venice. Its cozy wooden rooms, complete with dartboards and British memorabilia, are an unusual discovery for those seeking a low-key night of beer and camaraderie.

Signature Offerings: The pub offers a vast range of beers on its menu, ranging from craft and foreign beers across Europe. From lagers and ales to stouts and IPAs, there's something for everyone. To complement the drinks are classic pub food like fish and chips, burgers, and meat pies.

Why Go: Devil's Forest Pub provides a comfortable, laid-back atmosphere that's light-years away from the mad Venetian streets. To catch up with friends, unwind after a day of exploration, or simply have a mellow evening with a cold beer, this is the place to go.

Tip: Arrive early on crowded evenings to grab a table since the pub gets packed quickly with locals and tourists.

Opening Hours: Daily from 11:00 AM to 1:00 AM.

Location: San Marco district, close to Rialto Bridge. 

5. Osteria Ai Pugni

Overview: Nestled between the symbolic Ponte dei Pugni in the Dorsoduro district, Osteria Ai Pugni is a classic Venetian osteria with casual and cozy decor. Its riverside location and alfresco seating offer a peaceful ambiance perfect for soaking up the city vibe.

Signature Offerings: The menu is topped by a specially curated selection of local craft beers and wines matched with plain but delicious Cicchetti. Seasonal toppings on house-cured crostini, and cured meat and cheese platters, are a highlight.

Why Go: Osteria Ai Pugni achieves a nice balance between the old-world charm of an ancient Venetian osteria and laid-back atmosphere, ideal for informal drinks and snacks. The peaceful canal view only serves to enhance its beauty, especially during golden hour.

Pro Tip: Enjoy a drink with their house crostini for a quintessential Venetian experience. Outdoor seating is in demand, so arrive early to secure a good table.

Opening Hours: Open daily between 5:00 PM and 11:30 PM.

Address: Dorsoduro neighborhood, close to Ponte dei Pugni.

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6. Il Santo Bevitore

Overview: Secreted quietly in Cannaregio's historic neighborhood, Il Santo Bevitore is a dimmed bar with vintage decor and haphazard decor that has old-world charm. This unassuming gem is known for creative mixology and intimate atmosphere, which works to make it a go-to spot for cocktail enthusiasts.

Signature Drinks: The bar is known for artistic cocktails using fresh seasonal ingredients and a broad selection of high-end spirits. Their menu is constantly updated and features signature cocktails with a surprise twist as well as specialty drinks using the greatest flavors of the season.

Why Go: The speakeasy vibe at Il Santo Bevitore, and its creative cocktails, are a relief from the snooty Venetian bars. Friendly service by the master bartenders makes each cocktail a delight.

Tip: Look for the unmarked door, which becomes seamlessly camouflaged in the local architecture around it. Ask the bartenders to find out their off-menu secrets.

Opening Hours: 6:00 PM to 2:00 AM, daily.

Location: Giudecca Island, close to the Santa Maria della Salute church.

7. Harry's Dolci

Overview: Located at the northernmost point of Giudecca Island, Harry's Dolci is the upscale sibling of Harry's Bar, world-renowned. This little secret has a less frenetic atmosphere and serves refined cocktails with divine views over Venice' skyline. Its stunning lagoon-facing patio is a serene haven for a quiet night.

Signature Drinks: Harry's Dolci is famous for its signature drink Bellini cocktail, peach puree, and prosecco. The bar also provides an excellent assortment of handpicked, artisanal Italian wines and light appetizers that go well with the drinks.

Why Go: Harry's Dolci offers a less frenetic but no less indulgent alternative to visitors seeking to escape the city-centre tourist traps. The warm welcome and vistas make it a highlight of any Venetian holiday.

Tip: Visit at sunset to witness the breathtaking colour show over Venice's lagoon with a Bellini. Reserve a table on the terrace well in advance.

Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday 12:00 PM–10:00 PM; Mondays closed.

Where: Giudecca Island, close to the Vaporetto.

Visiting Hidden Secret Bars in Venice

Ticket Information

Overnight Stay Tax

Applied to: All visitors who reside in hotels, B&Bs, apartments, and other lodging in the city.

Fees: €1–€5 per person, per night, depending on

Type and grade of accommodation (e.g., luxury hotels cost more)

Location (central Venice versus outlying islands)

Season (peak seasons like summer and Carnival might be higher)

Payment: Paid by the accommodation provider upon check-in or check-out.

Exemptions

Children under 10 years: Free

Children 10–16 years: 50% discount

Students in Venetian schools, Veneto region residents, and transient travelers for business, humanitarian, or health-related reasons.

Day-Tripper Access Fee (Congestion Fee)

Day visitors to Venice with no overnights, mostly on 54 peak days (most weekends throughout Apr-Jul 2025)

Fee Range

€5 per head when booked 4+ days in advance

€10 when booked closer visit date

Payment: Must be paid in advance online

Proof Required: QR code or receipt to be shown on random checks

Exemptions

Children under 14 years

Resident locals of Venice

Night stay visitors (already paying accommodation tax)

Students, workers, and health-related visitors

Visitor Information

Who Needs to Pay

All tourists visiting Venice's historic center are obliged to pay Overnight Stay Tax or Day-Tripper Access Fee, depending on the duration of their visit.

When and Where to Pay

Overnight Stay Tax: Paid directly to your hotel or host.

Day Access Fee: Book and pay for in advance online at veniceXplorer tours.

Travel Tip

Advance booking is less expensive and fine-free. Tourists without proof of payment face penalties up to €300.

Best Times to Visit

Attempt to avoid peak congestion dates. Go during the off-season between April and July for a calmer environment and to avoid the Day-Tripper Fee.

Key Reminder

Keep your QR code, receipt, or proof of exemption with you, as spot checks are conducted at points of entry such as train stations, ferry wharfs, and major tourist sites.

Ticket Recommendations

Private Venetian Craft Beer Tasting Experience

Spritz O’Clock in Venice: A Classic Aperitivo Experience

Rialto Market Food & Sightseeing Tour in Venice with a Local

Travel Tips on Discovering Venice's Hidden Bars

Be Adventurous: Enjoy the thrill of uncovering these hidden bars by navigating Venice's confusing streets.

Timing is Everything: Arrive at aperitivo time for a lively but laid-back atmosphere.

Engage Locals: Feel free to ask Venetians for directions—the best bar may be a local secret.

Plan Ahead: Secret bars have limited seating; book ahead to maximize your experience.

Stay Open-Minded: Be willing to try new, exotic drinks and flavors that you can't get anywhere else.

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Conclusion

Venice's speakeasies are not watering holes; they're a part of Venice's cultural existence, and present an unvarnished glimpse of Venetian reality and imagination. 

Each of the bars, ranging from Harry's Dolci's vintage vibe to Il Santo Bevitore's creative cocktails, has something unique to offer aside from cocktail and atmosphere.

Finding these hidden bars is wandering the giddy streets of Venice and finding where locals and clever visitors meet. 

So, Venice's secret bars have stored in store moments to be cherished, from watching the sun set with a Bellini on Giudecca Island or trying out craft beers near Rialto.

Nightlife in the city is just as multifaceted as its history, tradition intermingling with contemporary styles and custom-fitted for different tastes. Share discoveries and have favorite hidden bars to preserve the essence of Venice's hidden nightlife for traveling companions. 

Let the enchantment of Venice guide its best-kept secrets.












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