🇮🇹 How to Drink Coffee Like an Italian in 2025

In Italy, coffee isn’t just a drink—it’s a daily ritual, steeped in tradition and social etiquette. Whether you’re standing at the bar for a quick espresso or slowly sipping a cappuccino in the morning sun, understanding when and how to enjoy each type of coffee is part of embracing la dolce vita.

Before you step into a local bar (Italian for cafĂŠ), here are a few golden rules to follow:

  • Cappuccinos are for the morning only—never after 11:00 a.m. 
  • Espresso (caffè) is enjoyed any time, especially after meals. 
  • Macchiato makes for the perfect midday pick-me-up. 
  • To-go coffee? Not really a thing here. Most cafĂŠs are designed for standing at the counter or relaxing at a table—so settle in. 

Now, let’s break down the Italian coffee menu.

☕ Caffè (Espresso)

The heart of it all. When you order a caffè in Italy, you’re getting a single shot of espresso—strong, small, and sipped in a few seconds. No doppio here. If you need more, Italians simply go back for another round.

🥛 Cappuccino

A beloved breakfast drink, the cappuccino is one part espresso, one part steamed milk, and one part foam. It’s delicious with a pastry but never served after a meal. If you order one after lunch, you’ll instantly reveal yourself as a tourist.

🥄 Caffè Latte

Creamy and comforting, this drink blends one shot of espresso with two parts steamed milk and a light cap of foam. Like the cappuccino, it’s reserved for the morning.

✨ Caffè Macchiato

Perfect at any hour, the macchiato means “stained.” It’s a shot of espresso “stained” with a touch of foamed milk. Strong, quick, and just slightly soft around the edges.

🌊 Caffè Americano

An Italian nod to American tastes, the americano is espresso diluted with hot water. It’s smoother and more sippable, but not exactly loved by locals.

🕓 Caffè Lungo

Think of it as a longer espresso—more water than a regular caffè, but less than an americano. It’s still intense but lasts a bit longer.

🥃 Caffè Corretto

Translated as “corrected coffee,” this post-dinner favorite features espresso spiked with grappa, sambuca, or another liquor of choice. Ideal for those long, lingering evenings.

❄️ Caffè Freddo

A southern Italian classic for warmer months, this iced espresso is shaken with sugar until frothy and chilled. Refreshing, energizing, and totally non-alcoholic—it’s the summer coffee you didn’t know you needed.

So next time you’re in Italy, skip the venti latte and embrace the art of Italian coffee—one sip at a time.