Harry'S Bar

Harry’s Bar Venice: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and the Ultimate Guide to an Iconic Venetian Institution

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

Nestled in the heart of Venice near St. Mark’s Square and overlooking the Grand Canal, Harry’s Bar stands as one of the world’s most storied institutions of hospitality, gastronomy, and culture. Founded in 1931 by Giuseppe Cipriani, Harry’s Bar is famed as the birthplace of the Bellini cocktail and Beef Carpaccio, drawing everyone from celebrated writers like Ernest Hemingway to modern-day celebrities. Its intimate atmosphere, timeless décor, and enduring legacy have made it a must-visit for travelers and locals alike.

This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about Harry’s Bar Venice: from its rich history and legendary patrons to practical information on visiting hours, reservations, menu highlights, accessibility, and travel tips. Whether you’re planning your first visit or returning to relive a classic Venetian experience, this article will help you make the most of your time at Harry’s Bar (lovevenice.net; Forbes; Cipriani Official).

Nancy Reagan and Marella Agnelli dining at Harry's Bar in Venice in 1987

Introduction
The Origins and Founding of Harry’s Bar
Architectural and Interior Features
Culinary Innovation: Signature Dishes and Drinks
Notable Patrons and Cultural Impact
Visiting Harry’s Bar: Hours, Reservations, and Location
Ambiance and Service
Nearby Attractions and Travel Tips
Heritage Status and Modern Developments
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Visuals and Virtual Experience
Conclusion and Call to Action
References

The Origins and Founding of Harry’s Bar

Harry’s Bar was born out of a remarkable act of kindness. In the late 1920s, Giuseppe Cipriani, then a bartender at Venice’s Hotel Europa, lent 10,000 lire to a young American guest, Harry Pickering, who found himself penniless. Two years later, Pickering returned, repaid Cipriani with interest, and suggested that he use the funds to open a bar. On May 13, 1931, Harry’s Bar opened its doors at the waterfront end of Calle Vallaresso, just steps from St. Mark’s Square (imagesofvenice.com; lovevenice.net).

Cipriani’s vision was to create an establishment that combined refined service with a welcoming, unpretentious ambiance—a philosophy that remains at the core of Harry’s Bar to this day.

Architectural and Interior Features

Occupying just 45 square meters, Harry’s Bar is modest in size but rich in character. Its nondescript exterior belies an interior of understated elegance, featuring swinging saloon-style doors, crisp white tablecloths, pastel pottery ashtrays, and dark wood paneling. The compact layout fosters an atmosphere where regulars and newcomers alike feel part of a unique Venetian tradition (reportergourmet.com; imagesofvenice.com).

Culinary Innovation: Signature Dishes and Drinks

The Bellini Cocktail

Invented in the 1940s by Giuseppe Cipriani, the Bellini is a blend of fresh white peach purée and Prosecco. Its distinctive pale pink color was inspired by the hues in paintings by Giovanni Bellini. Prepared with only the freshest peaches and served in a small, stemless glass, the Bellini at Harry’s Bar is an essential Venetian experience (Venezia Lines; The Independent).

Beef Carpaccio

Another Harry’s Bar original, Carpaccio was created in the 1950s for Countess Amalia Nani Mocenigo at her doctor’s suggestion to eat raw meat. Cipriani’s innovative dish features paper-thin slices of raw beef topped with a tangy “Universal sauce.” Its name pays homage to painter Vittore Carpaccio, known for vibrant reds in his art (Venezia Lines).

In addition to the Bellini and Carpaccio, Harry’s Bar serves a range of Venetian and Italian classics:

Baked Tagliolini with Ham: Egg pasta layered with béchamel and ham, baked to golden perfection.
Risotto Primavera: Creamy Arborio rice with fresh seasonal vegetables.
Venetian Cuttlefish with Polenta, Tosta (the Venetian croque monsieur), and Chicken Croquettes round out a menu that emphasizes tradition and quality (CN Traveler; Palladian Routes).

The dry Martini, served in Harry’s signature stemless glass, is another must-try, renowned for its icy crispness and classic preparation (The Independent).

Notable Patrons and Cultural Impact

Since its opening, Harry’s Bar has been a magnet for creative minds and international celebrities:

Ernest Hemingway, who immortalized it in Across the River and Into the Trees.
Charlie Chaplin, Alfred Hitchcock, Peggy Guggenheim, and Orson Welles.
Modern celebrities like George Clooney and Woody Allen (Forbes; Tour Leader Venice).

The bar’s cultural significance transcends hospitality: during WWII, Harry’s Bar closed rather than adhere to Fascist mandates, underscoring its status as a haven for free spirits (Forbes).

Visiting Harry’s Bar: Hours, Reservations, and Location

Visiting Hours

Harry’s Bar is open daily, typically from 10:30 am to 11:00 pm (sometimes 11:30 am to midnight depending on the season or special events). It serves breakfast, lunch, aperitivo, dinner, and late-night drinks (Cipriani Official; Bonjour Venise). Always check the official website for the most up-to-date hours.

Reservations and Entry

No entrance fee: You pay only for what you eat and drink.
Reservations: Not required for small groups, but highly recommended during peak times, for larger parties, or special occasions. Book via phone (+39 041 52 85 777), email ([email protected]), or the official reservation page.

Location and Directions

Address: Calle Vallaresso, 1323, 30124 San Marco, Venice, Italy (Cipriani Official)
How to get there: Just steps from Piazza San Marco and the Grand Canal. Arrive by foot from central Venice, or by vaporetto (water bus) to the “Vallaresso” stop.
Note: Venice’s historic core is pedestrianized; cars are not permitted.

Accessibility

Harry’s Bar is wheelchair accessible, though space is limited in busy periods. Notify staff in advance if assistance is needed (CN Traveler).

Ambiance and Service

The atmosphere at Harry’s Bar is defined by its understated elegance, attentive service, and convivial club-like interior. With its classic décor and intimate setting, guests feel transported to another era. Staff are knowledgeable and eager to share stories about the bar’s history and famous patrons. The dress code is smart casual—no beachwear or flip-flops, especially in the evening (CN Traveler).

Nearby Attractions and Travel Tips

Harry’s Bar’s central location makes it an ideal stop before or after exploring:

Piazza San Marco: Venice’s main square, with St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace.
Grand Canal: For scenic walks or gondola rides.
Teatro La Fenice: The city’s renowned opera house.

Travel Tips:

Visit during off-peak hours (late morning or mid-afternoon) for a quieter experience.
Even if not dining, enjoying a Bellini at the bar is a classic Venetian rite of passage.
For a more budget-friendly visit, opt for a single cocktail rather than a full meal.
Request a table by the window or terrace for canal views (Bonjour Venise).

Heritage Status and Modern Developments

In 2001, Harry’s Bar was declared a National Landmark by the Italian Ministry of Cultural Affairs, preserving its original décor and historic ambiance (Forbes; imagesofvenice.com). Despite modern challenges, including changes in ownership and legal disputes, Harry’s Bar continues to thrive as the heart of the global Cipriani hospitality brand (reportergourmet.com).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Do I need a reservation at Harry’s Bar Venice?
Reservations are not essential for small groups, but are recommended during busy periods or for special occasions.

What are Harry’s Bar Venice visiting hours?
Generally open daily from 10:30 am to 11:00 pm. Check the official website for updates.

Is Harry’s Bar wheelchair accessible?
Yes, though space is limited; contact staff in advance for assistance.

Is there a dress code?
Smart casual attire is recommended.

Are children welcome?
Yes, but the ambiance and menu are best suited for adults and older teens.

Are there vegetarian options?
Yes, but inform staff of dietary needs in advance.

Can I take photos inside?
Discreet, non-flash photography is generally permitted; please be considerate of other guests.

Visuals and Virtual Experience

Preview Harry’s Bar through high-quality images and virtual tours available on the official website, travel blogs, and Venice tourism sites. Look for photos of the classic entrance, interior décor, and signature dishes such as the Bellini and Carpaccio.

Conclusion and Call to Action

Harry’s Bar Venice is more than just a legendary bar—it’s a living testament to Venetian elegance, culinary innovation, and hospitality. Whether you’re enjoying a Bellini where Hemingway once sat or savoring classic Venetian dishes, a visit to Harry’s Bar is an essential Venetian experience.

Plan ahead: make reservations, dress smartly, and pair your visit with an exploration of Venice’s historical landmarks. For more insider tips and exclusive offers, download the Audiala app and follow us on social media to enhance your journey through Venice.