Europe is a food lover's paradise, with a rich culinary history and a diverse range of cuisines to explore. Whether you're a fan of French pastries, Spanish tapas or Italian pasta, there's something for everyone in Europe's top culinary destinations. Here’s a closer look at some of the best places to indulge your taste buds on the continent.
France is world-renowned for its decadent pastries, rich sauces, and world-renowned wine, and there’s no better place to experience the best Francophile culinary delights than Paris.
From the famous croissants at Pierre Hermé to the Michelin-starred restaurants like Le Jules Verne, there's no shortage of culinary delights to discover in the City of Love.
While there, push yourself out of your comfort zone to try classic French dishes like escargot (snails), coq au vin (chicken slow-cooked in red wine), and bouillabaisse (a classic seafood soup) while you're there.
Explore the tastes of France with Costsaver's 7-Night Jewels of France tour.
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With a unique blend of Spain’s traditional Catalan cuisine and modern culinary innovation, Barcelona is home to some of the world's best seafood, including fresh octopus, squid, and prawns.
Don't miss out on the famous tapas bars, where you can sample a variety of small plates like patatas bravas (sautéed potatoes a spicy tomato sauce), jamón ibérico (cured leg of pork), and croquetas (small, breaded & fried cylindrical-shaped fritters made from béchamel sauce and Spanish cured ham).
For a truly unforgettable dining experience, book a table at one of the city's Michelin-starred restaurants, like Disfrutar.
Taste the best of Spain and Portugal with Costsaver's 12-Night Iberian Explorer tour.
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Rome is a city steeped in history, and one that has been shaped by its food culture for centuries.
From classic dishes like carbonara and cacio e pepe (a pasta dish translating simply to “cheese and pepper”) to the famous pizza al taglio (pizza baked in large, rectangular trays), there is no shortage of delicious options to try.
For a taste of traditional Roman cuisine, head to famed restaurants Trattoria Da Enzo al 29 or Roscioli. And don't forget to indulge in some gelato from one of the city's many gelaterias, like Giolitti or Fatamorgana.
Let your tastebuds explore Rome with Costsaver's 6-Night Jewels of Italy tour.
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Denmark’s capital has become a top destination for foodies, only partly because Copenhagen is home to several Michelin-starred restaurants, including Noma, which has been named the best restaurant in the world more than once but, sadly, is set to close in 2024 (go while you can!).
But there are also plenty of more affordable options, like the street food served up at the trendy meatpacking district, Kødbyen.
Wherever you go in Copenhagen you’re sure to find traditional Danish dishes like smørrebrød (open-faced sandwiches) and the famous Danish pastries. Do yourself a favour and try both!
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Portugal’s capital city is located on the Atlantic coast, which means that fresh seafood is abundant. And Lisbon has put this close proximity to the ocean to good use by becoming one of the world’s top destinations for seafood.
Don't miss out on trying traditional dishes like grilled sardines, octopus salad, or bacalhau (salt cod). For a truly authentic experience, head to the Mercado da Ribeira, a bustling food market where you can sample a variety of local dishes from different vendors.
But remember: no trip to Lisbon would be complete without trying the famous pastel de nata, a delicious custard tart that originated in the city.
Taste the best of Portugal with this 10-Night Best of Portugal package, or on Costsaver's 12-Night Iberian Explorer tour.
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Taste the best of Europe with a 9-Night Great Italian Cities tour or a 10-Night Best of Portugal tour. Younger travellers can also get a taste of Rome with Contiki’s 8-Night European Magic tour or the 8-Night Ibiza and Beyond tour.
Or let Sure Travel’s expert consultants curate the ultimate culinary adventure in Europe just for you. Contact your nearest Sure Travel Agency to find out more.
