Traveling around the world as a vegetarian can be quite difficult. Europe is often seen as especially challenging, as it offers little choice for the non-meat eater. However, food doesn’t have to be a challenge or an obstacle while you travel through Europe. Here are the best European destinations for Vegetarians.
Italy
Italian food is known all over the world, and though a significant portion involves meat, much of it is vegetarian. From delicious vegetable risottos to fresh caprese salads, sumptuous pasta, and authentic pizzas, every region has its own distinct, traditional dishes to try out. However, with the heavy use of cheese and eggs, many of them aren’t great for vegans.
The Nordic Countries
Finland, Norway, and Sweden are, perhaps surprisingly, among the best places to be a vegetarian in Europe. Many restaurants and cafes have both vegetarian and vegan options easily available or are willing to come up with alternatives. Even convenience stores usually stock clearly labeled veg wraps or sandwiches. Don’t miss out on the excellent native root vegetables and cabbage varieties.
Switzerland
Boasting the highest density of vegetarian-friendly restaurants in Europe, it is certainly easy to eat meat-free in Switzerland. It is also home to the world’s oldest vegetarian restaurant, Hiltl, which opened in 1898. With the cost of meat in Switzerland being the most expensive in Europe, it’s no surprise that it has become a trailblazer for veg options like kale, acai bowls, and lentils.
The UK
Even though its most famous for its meaty specialties like fish and chips, roast dinners, or haggis, the UK is full of vegetarian hangouts, especially in cities like London, Edinburgh, and Brighton. With the second highest concentration of vegetarian-friendly eateries in Europe, it’s not difficult for someone to pop into a delicious meat-free restaurant.
Belgium
Home to the “vegetarian capital of the world,” (Ghent) Belgium is quite a haven for herbivores. With Ghent even declaring every Thursday “Veggie Day,” many other Belgian cities have followed in its footsteps, sprouting many excellent vegetarian restaurants. Of course, it helps that the most famous Belgian foods chocolates, fries, waffles, and delicious beer, are all meat-free!
A map from The Eco Experts shows which is the best European country to be vegetarian.
