Venice is a city that enchants the heart and pleases the senses, and nothing adds to its charm more than a creamy, flavorful scoop of gelato. Whether you’re walking along the canals, crossing its many bridges, or relaxing in a quiet piazza, gelato is the perfect companion to your Venetian adventure. But not all gelato is created equal.A lot of tourists make a common mistake when they go out for dinner in Venice. Since gelato is so popular, they often order it at restaurants. However, this way, you miss out on the authentic taste of real, high-quality gelato. For the best gelato experience, it’s always better to visit a proper gelateria. To help you, I’ve picked the top five places in Venice that are well-known and loved by locals and visitors alike. Let’s dive in!
Gelatoteca Suso
Location — Near the Rialto Bridge, Calle della Bissa.
Why It’s Famous— Gelatoteca Suso is widely recognized for its creativity and high-quality ingredients. It’s not just a gelateria – it’s an experience. Each flavor is crafted with care, blending traditional Italian recipes with innovative twists.
Flavors— They offer over 20 flavors at any given time. While the classics like pistachio and chocolate are always available, their signature flavors like “Manet” (chocolate and orange) and “Opera” (caramel with biscuits) steal the show.
Popular Flavors:
— Crema Suso: A creamy blend of zabaione and a secret recipe.
— Tiramisu Gelato: A homage to Italy’s favorite dessert.
— Matcha: A refreshing green tea flavor for adventurous palates.
Cost— A small cone or cup starts at €3. Larger sizes can go up to €6.
Tip— It’s usually crowded, especially in the afternoon, so try visiting early in the day for a quicker experience.
Gelateria Alaska
Location — Santa Croce, 1159.
Why It’s Famous — This hidden gem is perfect for those looking for a unique gelato experience. Run by the passionate Carlo Pistacchi, Gelateria Alaska is famous for its artisanal approach and experimental flavors. Everything here is made fresh daily with organic ingredients.
Flavors —Expect around 15 to 20 flavors, including exotic ones like:
— Artichoke: Surprisingly delicious with a hint of earthiness.
— Fennel: Light and refreshing, perfect for summer days.
— Ginger: A spicy-sweet treat for those who love bold flavors.
Popular Flavors — Despite the quirky options, the classic pistachio and hazelnut are fan favorites.
Cost — A cup or cone starts at €2.50 for a single scoop and goes up to €5 for larger servings.
Tip — Don’t be afraid to ask for a sample of the unusual flavors before choosing. Carlo loves introducing visitors to his creations.
Grom
Location— Campo San Barnaba and other locations in Venice.
Why It’s Famous— Grom is a chain known across Italy for its commitment to quality. All ingredients are organic and free from artificial colors or flavors. Their gelato caters to all dietary needs, with gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan options.
Flavors— Grom offers a rotating menu with about 20 flavors at any time. They emphasize seasonal ingredients, so flavors like apricot or fig appear only when fresh.
Popular Flavors—
— Hazelnut: Made with nuts from Piedmont, it’s creamy and rich.
— Dark Chocolate: Intensely chocolaty with a velvety texture.
— Lemon: Perfectly tart and refreshing.
Cost— A small serving is €3.50, with larger sizes around €5 to €7.
Tip— Their seasonal sorbets are a must-try, especially in the warmer months.
Boutique del Gelato
Location— Salizzada San Lio, Castello.
Why It’s Famous— This tiny shop may be easy to miss, but it’s a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Boutique del Gelato focuses on doing the basics exceptionally well. Their portions are generous, and the gelato is incredibly creamy.
Flavors— Around 12 to 15 flavors are available daily, including:
— Strawberry: Made with fresh, ripe berries.
— Mango: Sweet and tropical.
— Tiramisu: A creamy tribute to Italy’s iconic dessert.
Popular Flavors— Mango and tiramisu are among the best-sellers.
Cost— Prices start at €2.50 for a small cone or cup and can go up to €6 for the largest size.
Tip— The shop is small and cash-only, so come prepared with euros. Enjoy your gelato while strolling along the nearby streets.
Gelateria Nico
Location— Fondamenta Zattere, Dorsoduro.
Why It’s Famous— Gelateria Nico has been around for over 85 years, making it a staple in Venice. Its location along the Zattere promenade offers stunning views of the Giudecca Canal.
Flavors— They have about 15 flavors, focusing on traditional recipes. Their signature dessert, the Gianduiotto, is a block of hazelnut chocolate gelato topped with fresh whipped cream.
Popular Flavors—
— Gianduiotto: A decadent treat that’s a mix of gelato and dessert.
— Vanilla: A simple but creamy classic.
— Chocolate: Rich and satisfying.
Cost— A cup or cone starts at €3. The Gianduiotto dessert costs around €5.
Tip— Visit in the late afternoon to enjoy your gelato while watching the sunset over the canal.
What Makes Gelato in Venice Special?
Gelato in Venice is not just a dessert – it’s a tradition. Most gelaterias use fresh, high-quality ingredients and take pride in crafting each scoop. From innovative flavors to the classics, every gelato shop has its unique charm.
Tips for Choosing the Best Gelato
— Look at the colors: Natural gelato has soft, muted colors. For example, pistachio should be pale green, not bright green.
— Avoid overly puffed displays: If the gelato looks like it’s bursting out of the container, it might have artificial additives.
— Try new flavors: Venice is all about adventure, so don’t hesitate to explore unusual options.
No matter where you go in Venice, gelato will always make your day sweeter. With so many incredible options, you’ll find yourself coming back for more! Which place will you try first?
