Caffè Florian

This, the most famous café in Venice, is tucked under the arcades of the Procuratie Nuove in San Marco Square (it's half way up on the left as you stand with you back to the Doges Palace).

First opened on 29 December 1720 by Floriano Francesconi under the name Venezia Trionfante (Triumphant Venice), it was soon renamed 'Florian's' by its patrons. Since then it's been frequented by the rich and famous, and also by ordinary Venetian folk who continue to pop in for a quick espresso while stood at the bar.

If you visit Florian's in the summer resist the temptation to sit out on a sunny San Marco and instead head for one of the gloriously decorated little antechambers or even the bar (where the menu is cheaper). Everything on the extensive list tastes as wonderful as it looks. The choice ranges from English afternoon tea with scones through Florian's legendary hot chocolate to superbly made cocktails and an impressive selection of spirits and wines.