Best European Cities for Foodies

With the wide variety of cuisines that span the continent of Europe, it´s difficult to pinpoint a favorite city or country based on its food. However, some cities and towns consistently rank among the continent´s best for most inventive dishes. Pack your bag and your antacids for a culinary tour across Europe with stops in these delicious towns.

© Itziartelletxearocha | Dreamstime

San Sebastian, Spain

Home to pintxos — or slices of baguette topped with local ingredients that mimic miniature works of art — San Sebastian on the northern coast of Spain developed a powerful reputation as a culinary gem. Seafood, Rioja wine and pintxos bars serving one piece for €1 make the food extremely accessible and enjoyable.

© Wallaceweeks | Dreamstime

Lyon, France

Located southeast from Paris, Lyon often eclipses the French capital in terms of originality. Lyonnaise cuisine is famous for using every part of the pig and serving its meaty delicacies in bouchons, or local restaurants known for their traditional methods of preparation. Its central/southern location puts you at the forefront of some of the world´s best wines.

© Deanpictures | Dreamstime

Copenhagen, Denmark

Copenhagen is where fine dining reigns supreme. Currently home to the world´s best restaurant, Noma, diners on budgets can also enjoy classic Danish hot dogs, open-faces sandwiches and delectable snegls (snail-shaped pastries), the aromas of which fill the streets.

© Jackmalipan | Dreamstime

Rome, Italy

Pasta, pizza, pistachio gelato — what’s not to love about Italian cuisine? The beauty of food in Rome is that the chefs go back to basics. Handmade pasta, fresh sauces made with local ingredients and wine harvested just down the road: Simplicity abounds in the Italian capital.