Spritz in Italy vs. Abroad: Why Nothing Beats the Real Thing (and 5 Unique Variations You Must Try)

#summerspritz Ok hear me out: I’m half Italian and every time I visit #italy I know there will be a lot of gastronomy to talk about as they really care for the quality food. There’s something magical about sipping a Spritz on a sunny afternoon in Italy. Whether you’re perched on a terrace overlooking the canals of Venice or sitting at a tiny piazza in Rome, that first sip feels like a celebration of life itself. But if you’ve ever ordered a Spritz abroad, you probably noticed it never tastes quite the same. So why is the Italian Spritz so different? And what other combinations are out there for adventurous drinkers who want to try something beyond the classic Aperol? After traveling across Italy and sampling Spritz variations in other countries, I can tell you the answer lies in the ingredients, the atmosphere, and, of course, the Italian way of slowing down to enjoy the moment. While #aperol Spritz is the international superstar, Italy has dozens of Spritz variations that locals swear by. Here are my favorites: 1. #campari #spritz : For those who prefer a more bitter and intense flavor. 2. Select Spritz: A Venetian original with a deeper, herbal taste. 3. Hugo Spritz: Made with elderflower syrup, Prosecco, and mint. Light, floral, and perfect for summer. 4. Limoncello Spritz: A southern twist with the sweet tang of lemon liqueur. 5. Amaro Spritz: Using regional bitter liqueurs like Cynar or Montenegro for a more complex, earthy flavor. Each region in Italy adds its own twist, so exploring these variations is like taking a journey through the country one glass at a time.