Top 10 Must-Visit European Cities for Foodies

Europe is known for its incredible food scene, with each country offering its own unique and delicious dishes. For foodies, a European city break can be a dream come true. From Michelin-starred restaurants to local street food, there is something for everyone. Here are the top 10 must-visit European cities for foodies.

1. Paris, France Paris is a food lover's paradise, with its cafes, patisseries, and boulangeries offering a range of classic French dishes. From croissants and baguettes to escargots and coq au vin, Paris has it all. The city also boasts numerous Michelin-starred restaurants, including Alain Ducasse au Plaza Athénée and L'Ambroisie.

2. Bologna, Italy Bologna is known as the food capital of Italy, and for good reason. It is the birthplace of mortadella, ragù alla bolognese, and tortellini. The city is home to numerous traditional trattorias, as well as high-end restaurants such as Osteria Francescana, which has been ranked the best restaurant in the world.

3. Barcelona, Spain Barcelona is famous for its tapas scene, with bars and restaurants offering a range of small dishes to share. From patatas bravas and croquettes to fresh seafood and charcuterie, Barcelona's food scene is diverse and exciting. For a more upscale dining experience, head to the two-Michelin-starred restaurant, ABaC.

4. Copenhagen, Denmark Copenhagen has become known for its innovative and experimental food scene, with restaurants such as Noma leading the way. The city is home to numerous Michelin-starred restaurants, as well as street food markets such as Torvehallerne, where you can sample everything from smørrebrød to Nordic pastries.

5. Lisbon, Portugal Lisbon is a food lover's paradise, with its fresh seafood, pastel de nata, and bacalhau (salt cod) dishes. The city also offers a range of fusion cuisine, combining traditional Portuguese ingredients with flavours from around the world. For an unforgettable dining experience, head to Belcanto, the city's only two-Michelin-starred restaurant.

6. Istanbul, Turkey Istanbul is a city where east meets west, and this is reflected in its food scene. From traditional Turkish kebabs and meze dishes to street food such as simit (Turkish bagels) and börek (pastry filled with cheese or spinach), Istanbul has something for everyone. For a more upscale dining experience, head to Mikla, which offers panoramic views of the city.

7. Brussels, Belgium Brussels is known for its chocolate, waffles, and beer, but the city also boasts a range of high-end restaurants. From traditional Belgian cuisine such as moules-frites (mussels and fries) to Michelin-starred restaurants such as Comme Chez Soi, Brussels is a food lover's paradise.

8. Stockholm, Sweden Stockholm's food scene has undergone a transformation in recent years, with numerous innovative restaurants popping up around the city. From traditional Swedish meatballs and gravlax to Nordic cuisine with a twist, Stockholm has something for every foodie. For an unforgettable dining experience, head to Frantzén, which has been awarded three Michelin stars.

9. Athens, Greece Athens is a city steeped in history, but it also offers a vibrant and exciting food scene. From traditional Greek dishes such as souvlaki and moussaka to street food such as koul.