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A veggie guide to Europe

 

Vegetarian on the lookout for the coolest places to holiday, without going hungry? There’s no need to compromise in these ace-for-veggies destinations...

Hey there, vegetarian traveller... We see you eyeing up the main menus on our destinations map, trying to figure out a foodie fave. So we thought we’d cut in and lend a helping hand, as lots of our locations have more than a dollop of this and a sprinkle of that for veggies. That’s right, these top-pick places are full of restaurants and food vendors where you can sample tasty delights, minus the meat.

Gran Canaria

Why?

You could say Gran Canaria, arguably the most colourful and vibrant of the Canary Islands, is a vegetarian holiday pro. Its Spanish flair is demonstrated through its many tapas joints, which lay on everything from humble patatas bravas to salt-flecked padron peppers. And of course, there’s nothing stopping veggies going on a rum tasting tour at Arehucas. Bottoms up!

Our must-try:

Zip over to one of the Mexican eateries, where bargain tacos are easy to come by. And when they’re filled with zingy, chilli-tinged prickly pear (cactus), they’re divine.

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Berlin

Why?

Foodie scenes don’t come much more multicultural and palate-pleasing than Berlin’s. The German capital is a mecca for variety, so you could be chowing down on Indian veg thalis (platters) at lunchtime and Asian noodle dishes by night. Their brunch menus range from egg-central classics to veggie hashes. Want the full local dining experience? Give the vegan take on a schnitzel a go! Berlin’s also renowned for its doughnuts, if a sugar fix is in store while you browse the Christmas markets.

Our must-try:

It’s a little bit naughty but an awful lot nice – the vegan currywurst. Plant-based hotdog sausages are slathered in the famous curry sauce, and you can have it with onions, ketchup and mustard too. The whole hog, yet none of the hog.

Porto

Why?

Veggies will feel right at home in Porto. Sure, wine tasting in the Douro Valley ought to be high on your agenda, but you can really taste the world here. Go global with a veg curry or a meat-free buddha bowl, or you’ll spy tofu’s the trade-in for various other poultry options. And if there’s still room, grab a pastel de nata on the go for afters – these custard tarts are ideal for the sweet tooths!

Our must-try:

The famous francesinha is a sandwich made with layers of toasted bread and roasted meat, topped with cheese that melts as a tomatoey, beer sauce is poured over the top. Sounds pretty decadent, doesn’t it? Rumour has it, you’ll come by vegan versions using meat and cheese substitutes. Will you give it a go?

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Florence

Why?

In 2023, Bounce tallied up the number of vegetarian and vegan cities around the world compared to its population. And the results were pretty cool! Thought Florence was all about its namesake steak? Think again. Apparently, at the time, there were 343 veggie eateries per 100,000 inhabitants recorded. So if you needed one final excuse to go and see the Duomo and Uffizi, you’ve got it...

Our must-try:

Although a veggie lasagne qualifies as a fantastic meatless meal, you’re best opting for a lip-smacking, ricotta-stuffed zucchini flowers. The blossom from the courgette is fried and served crispy.

Parga

Why?

Greece is a meze mecca, so sitting down to order nothing but tzatziki, a couple of pittas and an ice-cold beer by the beach is very much the done thing. Embrace the local way of life in picturesque Parga and sightsee around the pastel-hued town by morning, then savour light bites and yummy delicacies the minute noon strikes. You’ll find plenty of bakeries if you need your morning pastry too!

Our must-try:

The classic Greek salad offers greenery by the spoonful – and it just so happens to be suitable for veggies. After all, they do say life’s better with feta! And olives and juicy tomatoes and oregano...

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Krakow

Why?

From cheese to pickles, cabbage one-pots to veg-filled baguettes, Krakow lays on lots of vegetarian treats. So in among your days roaming around Kazimierz, Planty Park, Wawel Royal Castle and more, you’ll be able to refuel on great lunch and dinner food. Pretzel snacks are fab too, plus, sauerkraut’s almost as big here in Poland as it is in Germany.

Our must-try:

Pierogis! These delectable dumplings will leave you salivating, so you can’t stop at one. They more commonly come with mushroom or spinach fillings for veggies.

Paris

Why?

Move over, croque monsieur and duck à l'orange, you’re not in the French bistro limelight when vegetarian travellers are in town! You’ll find yourself in your element among Paris’ attractive arrondissements, where cute bakeries produce the flakiest croissants and dinkiest macarons. But among them are plenty of restaurants that specialise in veggie and vegan takes on dishes – they range from sushi to fish and chips! Not very French per se, but you can have your fill while in the iconic capital.

Our must-try:

Let’s not forget that ratatouille is vegetarian! Made typically from stewed and sliced tomatoes, peppers, aubergine, courgette and more, it’s a healthy, hearty flavour sensation – and a well-known one at that.

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And there are so many more vegetarian-friendly hotspots to choose from! Let Europe and beyond be your oyster mushroom...

Posted: 21st Oct 2024.

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