€27 Coffee & Hot Chocolate: Caffe Florian Review, Venice

Are these the most expensive coffees or hot chocolates in Venice? It’s certainly the best hot chocolate I’ve ever had. And I’ve tried a lot. This is by far the most expensive coffee or hot chocolate I’ve ever had too. So was it worth visiting Caffe Florian? Yes.

Cioccolata Casanova – Hot chocolate, mint cream and chocolate shavings, €13.50

Frozen Florian – Cold coffee cream with whipped cream, €13.50

It’s not just the luxurious hot chocolate and coffee that makes visiting Caffè Florian worth it, it’s the experience too.

Established in 1720, Caffè Florian is the oldest operating cafe in Europe. It was also one of the first to welcome women whilst famous visitors include Charles Dickens, Marcel Proust and even Casanova (which explains why our hot chocolate is named after him.

We hadn’t planned on visiting Caffè Florian. We were wandering under the arches at Piazza San Marco killing times before our flight back when we noticed the luxurious facade. From the outside, Caffè Florian looks like a cafe from the past.

We didn’t actually read the menu before going in. It was only when we sat down at the table we realised just how expensive everything in there was. The afternoon tea is €35 (we should have maybe bought this in hindsight…).

As soon as you step through the doors, you notice the beautiful tiled floor. A waiter in smart white shirt and black waistcoat and trousers greets and shows you to your table. You’re surrounded by elegant mirrors, stuccos and frescos. We’re clearly not dressed correctly for this, but the staff are all very friendly.