The 10 best European cities for foodies

The world is full of unforgettable meals — if you know where to look.

09/08/2016 14:49

BARCELONA, SPAIN

You can help yourself to an abundance of cured pork, Serrano ham, and cold cuts from inland Catalonia, but you could also get fresh fish from the Mediterranean Sea. Sample traditional Catalan cooking in areas like the Barri Gòtic quarter, indulge in tapas at popular stops like Cal Pep, and explore the Boqueria market for stalls of fresh produce and treats.

BOLOGNA, ITALY

Head to the city that invented tagliatelle al ragu, a dish that consists of ribbons of pasta smothered in a hearty meat sauce. Wander through the family-owned artisan shops in Quadrilatero, or taste a variety of fresh cheese and mortadella at the Mercato di Mezzo market.

BRUGES, BELGIUM

From succulent plates of mussels and crisp french fries to fluffy waffles and delectable chocolate, Bruges is a food paradise waiting to be explored. Head to the Chocolate Line, where chef Dominique Person uses everything from wasabi and guacamole to chicken and oysters in his chocolates.

COPENHAGEN, DENMARK

Traditional favorites and cutting-edge restaurants put Copenhagen on the foodie map. Casual stops like Dop — where hot dogs are served with sourdough and linseed buns — and Aamanns — where you can enjoy open-faced sandwiches piled with everything from pork to herring — are just as popular as restaurants like Amass, where you can indulge in gourmet bites at an affordable price.

FLORENCE, ITALY

As the capital of Italy's renowned Tuscany region, Florence is home to simple and seasonally fresh foods with a focus on grilled meats, fresh vegetables, bean-based soups, and breads. Grab a scoop of creamy gelato from Grom, or enjoy a hearty bowl of ribollita (a vegetable soup) at Trattoria da Mario.

GALWAY, IRELAND

Galway is at the forefront of Ireland's organic food movement. You can find produce and sushi at the Galway Market, an array of intriguing snacks at McCambridge's, and a delectable selection of Irish meats and seafood at Aniar.

LONDON, ENGLAND

Over the past few years, London has seen a transformation of its dining scene, with pubs transitioning into higher-end gastropubs, the food truck scene blossoming, and openings of restaurants like Dinner by Heston Blumenthal, The Ledbury, and The Clove Club.

LYON, FRANCE

According to The Guardian, Lyon has been the gastronomic capital of France and of the world for the past 76 years. In Lyon, you'll find eclectic dishes such as pig's brain dressed in pork vinaigrette, and quaint markets like the Quai Saint-Antoine and the Les Halles de Paul Bocuse.

PARIS, FRANCE

Weekend events like the Bastille market and the Place Monge Market bring in an array of authentic French cheese and sweets to taste. Head to one of the brasseries outside of the tourist centers for traditional dishes like quiche and coq au vin, or indulge in one of the city's many acclaimed restaurants like L'Atelier de Joël Robuchon.

SAN SEBASTIAN, SPAIN

Besides its trio of restaurants with three Michelin stars, the Spanish coastal destination is known for its markets, its Basque-style tapas, and its cutting-edge dishes like foie gras with figs. Source Businessinsider

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