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GUIDE TO A EUROPEAN FOOD TOUR

Written by Menswear Style in Travel on the 13th September 2024

When it comes to foodie continents, Europe is sure to be a winner. No matter how fussy your palettes are, tasting your way through top-pick countries is guaranteed to please. Within the rainbows of nutritious food options is a perfect mix of world-renowned flavours and more unique and unknown dishes. In this guide, we’ll take the pressure of planning off and go through five top-pick destinations for foodie enthusiasts. From the classics of Italian favourites to the hearty dishes of France, we’re sure there’s something for everyone to savour.

Italy

The world-class paradise for food lovers, Italy has helped shape the culinary landscape of the world. With pizza and pasta now common across most corners of the planet, there is nowhere better to taste the favourites than in the birthplace. There are various culinary traditions across different regions in the country and each is sure to suit different tastes. Southern Italy is the home of the classic margarita pizza. Discover the array of pizzerias in Naples that are freshly making the simple Italian staple, daily. As pizza toppings continue to become more and more creative, equally check out menus for the most unique varieties perfected by the experts. Alongside a glass of local white wine, you can’t go wrong! Discover more favourites in the capital. For sweet-toothed travellers, Rome is abundant with tiramisu delicacies on every corner. Pick through a wealth of flavours to top off the caffeinated Italian dessert, or choose from an array of gelato flavours. Enjoy these afternoon pick-me-ups in the most serene settings of the city. If it’s an island adventure, Sicilian food is infamous for its unique take on Italian traditions. Enjoy locally made pizza known as Pizza Siciliana, which is often thicker and crunchier than mainland crusts. Arancini is equally a Sicilian classic. Indulge in the crisp texture filled with soft ragu and veggies.

Cyprus

Paying homage to a range of influences including Greek, Mediterranean and Middle Eastern, Cypriot cuisine has it all. Combining fresh local produce with cooking methods from around the world makes it an exciting place for culinary travel. Discover a traditional meze feast of small dishes served in one go. This ideal spot of social dining includes classics from neighbouring Greek mezes, like hummus and refreshing tzatziki dip. With Cyprus package holidays, taste your way through countless restaurants and local trattorias fit for whole-family dining. Cheese lovers will also love the wealth of halloumi cheese served!

Denmark

Highlighting its neighbouring Scandinavian gems, Denmark has gained acclaim for its creative approach to Nordic cuisine classics. As the country is home to a hearty baking scene of fresh bread, enjoy smørrebrød open-faced sandwiches. Rye bread is topped with a variety of meat and veggie ingredients to make the perfect lunchtime bite. Take the load off for a rest of delicious relaxation! The capital, Copenhagen, is the most synonymous region for a classic Danish affair. From fine to casual dining, enjoy a range of high-quality food in ambient social settings. When it comes to where to stay in Copenhagen, plan around top restaurant and food market picks and ensure you’ll never go without top-rated food.

Portugal

Indulge in both national classics and regional specialities in Portugal. Thanks to the robust Douro Valley wine region, enjoy evening dining paired with locally made tipples. The country’s capital is known for its vibrant indoor markets to cater to both hungry travellers and locals alike. Try out gourmet dishes from local vendors in Lisbon’s Time Out Market with the perfect wine in hand. For the afternoon sweet treat, head to one of the countless Pasteis de Nata bakeries. The iconic custard tarts are surely the best in the birthplace! You could even test out a cooking class in a city or resort. Choose from a selection of Portugal villa holidays, enjoy a home-from-home experience and why not try an evening meal utilising local methods? Plus, with a beloved custard tart to finish, everyone is sure to leave the table smiling.

Slovenia

With a culinary culture influenced by central Europe, the Mediterranean and Balkan influences, Slovenia is home to a rich food scene. From bakeries to markets and fine dining establishments, there is something for every foodie traveller, no matter the budget. Head on a winter trip and enjoy Jota stew for a hearty warm-up of veggies, potatoes and smoked meats. This is a classic in Slovenian restaurants. Enjoy the locally-loved kraški pršut cured ham for a delicacy favourite known for its unique curing process. Explore the markets of the capital. In Ljubljana, Central Market is bustling with fresh produce and local cheeses to make mouths water. Embrace the local feel and get recommendations from friendly vendors.

France

With croissants ‘on tap’ from local bakeries and the luxe scene of Parisian eating, France is celebrated globally for its cuisine. Enjoy baked goods up and down the country and at any time of day. The classic French baguette can be paired with enough to give it space in every meal. As dusk settles, enjoy braised chicken and steak meats in robust red wine sauces. Parisian bistros are known for short menus that cater only to the best classics. Explore the vibrancy of Montmartre, where classic cafés pair the caffeine fix with plenty of croissant flavourings and brunch options. On every corner, you’ll also find perfectly delicate macaroons to enjoy. Head south for the best tipples. The Bordeaux wine region is infamous around the world and even has UNESCO World Heritage Status to signify it. Learn, taste and get involved in some of the most specific wine production on earth and come home feeling like a sommelier. Many wine estates in the region offer fine dining to pair with the beloved beverage.

Summary

Europe is a hotspot for foodie delights. Explore the array of landscapes to uncover all the best bits of regions and countries. Whether it’s sweet or savoury top picks, the continent has you covered.