How to save money on coffee at the bar

Choose your local bar. Avoid table service, tourist areas, and espresso at airports and train stations.

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Coffee at the bar isn't the same for everyone, everywhere. Prices vary widely, even within the same neighborhood, where you can find an espresso for €1-€1,20, up to €2. Some people are clearly taking advantage of this, and the rising cost of raw materials isn't the only reason for the constant rise in prices for a cup at the bar.

But there are some little tricks that can easily save you money and avoid wasting it on unjustified increases.

  • First, do a little research in the neighborhood where you live and where you work, the two areas where you most frequently drink your coffee. You'll surely find the right café, with quality coffee and a decent price. Even a Milan, A city that has now become tailor-made for rich or well-off residents, there are bars that, right in the center, still offer the possibility of a coffee at the fixed rate of one euro.
  • Avoid drinking at a table unless you plan to stay longer and perhaps spend time with someone. The difference can be enormous, and a cup of coffee at a bar table, especially in some tourist cities, can easily reach €5. Is it worth it?
  • Some bars offer a "full breakfast" in the morning at discounted prices; if you're used to a croissant or a donut, this could be a convenient option.
  • Bars frequented by commuters (workers or students) certainly have lower prices. 
  • Other bars offer packages with 10 coffees, one of which is free.
  • Avoid the tourist areas, and the cafes at the airport and train station: you won't get by on less than about 2 euros here.
  • Be careful with extra requests, such as a teaspoon of cream: some people will take advantage of this to overcharge you for a coffee. 
  • Company cafes and those in schools and universities have significantly lower prices, even for a simple espresso. Keep this in mind. 

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