The spritz belongs to the whole Veneto, but Padua has a special claim: the bitter-orange aperitif Aperol was invented here in 1919 by the Barbieri brothers, and the city has been sipping it, and its rivals, ever since. A guided spritz walk turns that history into an evening ritual. The route links the market squares, hidden courtyards and neighbourhood bars of the old centre, with stops for different versions of the drink and the small plates that go with it. Guides explain the origins of the spritz, which may trace back to soldiers diluting local wine with water, and the later arrival of bitter liqueurs, sparkling wine and a slice of orange. You will meet the main characters: Aperol with its bright orange colour, Select with a deeper, more bitter flavour, and Campari for those who prefer a sharper edge. Along the way, expect cicchetti-style snacks, olives, cheese, cured meats and fried bites that keep the evening balanced. Padua's large student population gives the aperitivo hour a youthful energy, and the squares fill with chatter from around six in the evening. Joining a guided walk is a relaxed way to try several places without worrying about where to sit, how to order or what is worth paying for, and it makes a social start to the night, especially for solo travellers and small groups.
The walk is best treated as the opening act of an evening rather than a full dinner. Plan to join in the late afternoon or early evening, then finish with a proper meal at an osteria or trattoria, or let the snacks stand in as supper if you are happy with a light dinner. The pace is gentle, with plenty of time to stand and chat at the bars. If you do not drink alcohol, tell the organiser, and look for non-alcoholic versions of the aperitivo, which are increasingly common in Italy.
Understand local etiquette
Aperitivo is a social, unhurried habit, not a race, and the glass is usually small enough to be finished slowly. Prices at the bar are lower than at tables in the square, but the difference is part of what you pay for the view. Explore the markets and the arcades around the squares before the group meets, then take photos of the golden light on the stone.
Dress for walking, and bring a light jacket for after dark. The walk usually includes a mix of well-known places and local favourites, which may change with the season. If you want to go further, ask the guide for recommendations on where to eat afterwards, because they often know which kitchens are open late and which tables need reservations.
Combine the experience with a food tour or a cooking class earlier in the day for a full culinary itinerary, but leave some free time to wander on your own, since the best part of Padua's aperitivo scene is how easily it can be joined without a plan.
Aperitivo etiquette rewards curiosity, so ask the guide why the glass shape, the ice and the garnish matter, and which bars locals choose on a weeknight. Stay hydrated with water between drinks, and remember that last trains and buses may run earlier than you expect if you are staying outside the centre.
What to expect
The experience
A guided evening walk with spritz tastings and small bites in the old centre.
Best time
Late afternoon to early evening, when the squares fill up.
How long
Around two to three hours.
Tips
Plan dinner afterwards, mention any dietary or alcohol preferences and wear comfortable shoes.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Couples, solo travellers and anyone curious about Italian drinking culture.
- Families
- Adults only in practice; check age policies with the operator.
- Couples
- A sociable, golden-hour start to the evening.
- Pair with
- Piazza delle Erbe, Caffe Pedrocchi or dinner at an osteria.
- Time needed
- Two to three hours.
Good questions
Where did Aperol come from?+
It was created in Padua in 1919 by the Barbieri brothers.
Is food included?+
Small snacks usually accompany the drinks. Treat it as a light meal, not a full dinner.
Can I get a non-alcoholic option?+
Ask the operator in advance. Non-alcoholic aperitivi are increasingly available.
Is it suitable for large groups?+
The format is small group. Check the operator for group size limits.
What should I wear?+
Comfortable walking shoes and a light layer for the evening.