5 Amazing European Destinations for Food Lovers

Table of Contents

Introduction

I think I can say that I’ve travelled to Europe quite a lot in the last few years, and now that I’m back in the UK for some time, I have been hoping to do more and more of Europe, particularly Eastern Europe. If you’re looking for an European escape this year or you’re looking for European destinations for food lovers because you are actually a food lover like me, then this post is perfect for you. You can read Why I Love Travelling for Food (And You Should Too) here.

It’s funny because I was speaking to a someone and they was like do you feel like you’re playing catch up. And honestly I really do. I feel like I have been somewhat playing catch up with my travels catching affordable flights or Eurostar from £30 to £60 RT and exploring Europe. European destinations where I can try new foods and also enjoy the scenery and more.

You can check Eurostar prices here.

And guess what, some of these European destinations for food are perfect for day trips so get a notepad and pen because you’re in for a treat. Oh and if you have Pinterest even better – save the pin below.

5 European Destinations for Food Lovers

Venice, Italy

Venice was and is a dream destination for food lovers. I did a day trip and had a food tour booked right from the minute I landed. And the food tour was amazing I absolutely loved it. You can book the same food tour via Viator here.

Book Venice Food Tour

Venice is the perfect city. It is home to some of the freshest seafood and most comforting pasta dishes you’ll ever taste. I loved wandering between restaurants, trying different plates of seafood pasta, sampling cicchetti (their version of tapas), and finishing the evenings with tiramisu. Venice isn’t just romantic it’s a full sensory experience for anyone who loves Italian food.

Read full guide: One Day in Venice: The Perfect Itinerary for First-Time Visitors

France, Lyon

I’ve been to France many times mostly Paris, Bordeaux, and Nice but Lyon truly surprised me. It feels like a smaller, calmer version of Paris, but with a bigger focus on food.

Lyon is a perfect destination for food lovers because the city is known specifically as the gastronomic capital of France. And for good reason too. When I visited last year I was eating at traditional bouchons that where serving dishes like quenelle de brochet and eating desserts like tarte praline rose.

Lyon gives you an authentic taste of French culture that you just don’t get from Paris. I spent two days here and could easily have stayed longer. I will be going back there again soon I’m sure.

Read full guide: 24 Hours in Lyon France: What To Eat, Do and More

Brussels, Belgium

I visited Brussels in the summer last year and and absolutely loved it. The weather was a bit too hot for me, but the food made up for everything.

I went with a friend and we was indulging ourselves in Belgian fries, waffles, and a little beer. I also made some time to do a chocolate class which you can also do via GetYourGuide here.

Book Belgian Chocolate Class

For me, Brussels is the kind of place where you wander between historic streets and stop constantly for snacks. It’s a great destination if you like comfort food with a European twist.

Read full guide: Bored in Brussels for 48 Hours

Portugal, Lisbon

Lisbon is one of my favourite European destinations for food lovers. The flavours here are bold, warm, and comforting.

Although I have heard many people not enjoy the food Portugal I absolutely loved it. Till this day (a decade later) I still remember the creamy spinach and Piri Piri Chicken with rice I had at a restaurant called Bonjardim. Thanks to Temi at The Palate Port for the recommendation I trust you when it comes to my palette.

Oh and can’t forget the pastéis de nata from Manteigaria were absolutely perfect. They were flaky, warm, and creamy. Lisbon blends beautiful scenery with unforgettable food, making it the ideal place for a weekend escape.

Read full guide: Lisbon, Portugal: A Quick Pocket Travel Guide

Latvia, Riga

If I remember rightly, Riga was the first Eastern European city I ever visited. Since then I have done Kosovo, Albania, Greece, Serbia and more. And I truly love it for me.

I went to Riga during the winter, I wonder what it would be like in the summer because for me even in the winter I could see that it’s very colourful, affordable, and full of delicious food that reflects the city’s history and culture.

I remember trying local dishes like grey peas with bacon and traditional rye bread desserts both surprisingly good! Riga has a warmth to it that you feel in both the people and the food, and it’s a destination I would happily return to.

Read full guide: A Riga Travel Guide: 11 Must-Do Experiences

Other European Destinations for Food Lovers

Final views

And there you have it five European destinations for food lovers to choose from with full guides for each because I can share my experiences with everything I have done in each destination.

I think Europe is full of incredible food destinations that go far beyond the usual capitals that everyone immediately thinks about.

Whether it’s seafood pasta you are after in Venice, French classics in Lyon, or warm, hearty dishes in Riga, each city has something unique to offer for every food lover.

Where should I visit next? Let me know I’m always ready for my next bite.

And more importantly where are you going next?

Speak soon,

Adebola MBV x