Eager to get out of your own bubble and explore what the world has to offer? There are few better ways to explore the rich culture and natural environment of a new place than following your nose and sampling the finest cuisine a place has to offer.
We all know Paris and Rome as major food destinations, but what lesser-known gems does the European food scene have to offer? In this list, let’s go through the best destinations in Europe that every foodie should have on their bucket list.
● Prague, Czech Republic
In recent years, the Czech capital of Prague has become one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe, with swathes of tourists pouring in from all around the world. It’s no surprise, really, as the city has so much to offer.
From the charming winding streets of the Old City, to the lively nightlife scene, Prague is a great destination for those who really want to take a break from the norm. The food scene of Prague doesn’t fall short either, boasting the finest that Czech food has to offer.
Czech cuisine is full of delicious meats and rich stews, and is perfect for anyone with a strong, savoury palate. While you’re there, be sure to check out classic dishes such as zelňačka (sauerkraut soup), bramboráky (fried potato pancakes), and if you’re feeling adventurous, tatarák (raw beef, sometimes topped with a raw egg yolk!).
● Copenhagen, Denmark
While Copenhagen may have once been best-known for Hans Christian Anderson and the vibrant Freetown of Christiania, in recent years it has made a big name for itself in the culinary world. The Danish capital is home to a number of Michelin-starred restaurants, and the New Nordic cuisine restaurant Noma is globally-renowned as one of the best restaurants in the world.
For its relatively small size, Copenhagen boasts an impressive number of Michelin stars. In fact, the city has been awarded a total of 23 stars across 14 restaurants - making it a true heavyweight of gastronomy.
Copenhagen is a must-visit destination for foodies who are interested in innovation as much as they are tradition, as the New Nordic style of cooking for which Copenhagen is famous for revolves around experimenting with seasonal ingredients. What sets Copenhagen apart is how its top chefs find new ways to use ingredients, bring out hidden flavours, and innovate in presentation and concept.
● Lyon, France
We’ll avoid putting Paris on this list, as just about everyone knows Paris is a titan of cooking and is probably the first place any foodie ticks off their bucket list. If you still wish to enjoy the fine cuisine of France without walking the beaten track of Paris, Lyon may be your best bet.
Lyon is known in France and abroad as a town that champions gastronomy. The gastronomic revolution in Lyon was led by one of the world’s most famous chefs, Chef Paul Bocuse. Despite being an octogenarian, Bocuse is still at the helm of his world-renowned restaurant Bocuse d’Or.
The epitome of fine French dining, Bocuse d’Or has racked up a number of Michelin stars since its opening, and has led the torch for the rest of Lyon to follow suit. The entire town is speckled with gems of classic French cooking and is a must-visit destination for anyone with an interest in France’s culinary scene.
● San Sebastián, Spain
San Sebastián, known as Donostia to the local Basque population, is a city along the northern coast of Spain, and one that every passionate foodie should know all about. Particularly in recent years San Sebastián has drawn the attention of the culinary world for its high concentration of Michelin-starred restaurants and gourmet food shops.
The city is particularly well-renowned for its excellent seafood, and the stars of the most iconic local dishes are often pulled fresh out of the sea. Classic dishes include bacalao al pil pil (cod that has been fried in olive oil until crisp), percebes (goose barnacles), and squid served in its own ink.
As if you needed any more convincing, San Sebastián is the city with the highest concentration of Michelin stars, second only to Tokyo! What are you waiting for? Hop on the next flight to the Basque coast and get ready for the feast of a lifetime.
● Berlin, Germany
Berlin has typically garnered more attention for its fraught history and politics, or in more recent years its infamous nightlife scene, than its culinary scene. All that is changing, as Berlin grows into more and more of an international metropolis with each passing year.
Known for its liberal and artistic scenes, Berlin has become a hub for open-minded creative people looking to explore their passions and make their mark on the world. The food scene is no exception to this, with new and exciting food experiences popping up seemingly every day.
From artisan market halls and Michelin-starred restaurants to the guerilla summertime Thai food market and countless delicious (and affordable!) shawarma digs, Berlin has something to tickle every foodie’s fancy.
If reading this made you half as hungry as writing it made us, you’ll want to start planning your next foodie trip to Europe as soon as possible!
