When it comes to travel, some cities feed your soul—and your stomach. And few places do food and culture as well as Europe does.
As travellers in our 40s, we’ve come to appreciate cities that offer more than a checklist of sights. When we travel, we look for places where we can spend hours in museums, ooh and aah over stunning architecture, but also indulge in some fantastic food and wine. That’s what travel is all about for us. In this post, I’m sharing some of our own favourite European cities where culture and cuisine are inseparable.
But we didn’t stop there.
To bring you even more mouth-watering inspiration, we asked eight travel experts to weigh in with their top picks of cities that made a lasting impression through both their flavour and their flair. We asked them the same 10 questions about their favourite culture-food cities in Europe, and this is what they have to say.
Whether you’re planning your next cultural escape, dreaming of your next European foodie adventure, or simply love discovering new destinations, this guide is for you.
So, let’s dig into European culinary destinations with historic heritage that serve up culture and unforgettable meals, one dish and one story at a time.
Please note: This post may contain affiliate links. This means I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link (at no extra cost to you). As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more.
Our Picks: European Culinary Destinations
With Historic Heritage
Here are our favourite cities in Europe for culture and food. We think they all offer fantastic sights and food for a city break.
Madrid, Spain
What made you fall in love with Madrid from a cultural perspective? People in Madrid live life to the fullest, and that’s why we love it. From world-class museum visits, amazing tapas, el-fresco drinks, siestas, and stunning architecture, culture is everywhere, but it never feels like it’s on display.
What’s the most memorable dish (es) you tried in Madrid, and where did you have it? Chocolate con Churos from Chocolatería San Ginés and jamón Ibérico with melon at Museo de Jamón.
What’s one food-related experience travellers shouldn’t miss in Madrid? The Mercado de San Miguel might be on the touristy side, but it’s the best place in Madrid to try every tapas dish imaginable, all under one roof. The food is beautifully displayed, and you’ll want to try them all.
How long would you recommend staying in Madrid for first-time visitors interested in food and culture?
At least 2 full days.
Did you take part in any food tours, wine tastings, or cooking classes? Would you recommend them? We didn’t, as we had an entire Google Maps full of must-eat places pinned that we wanted to try, and it’s easy to eat your way through Madrid on your own schedule.
Name one cultural site every visitor should see. For classic Spanish art, the Prado is a must, while the Reina Sofia is all about modern Spanish art. We went to the Reina Sofia.
What time of year did you visit, and did it influence your food or cultural experience? We went in July and it was HOT! The best way to enjoy Madrid in summer is to do like the locals do and take a long siesta in the afternoon. Dinner doesn’t really start until 21:00 anyway. Summer in Madrid is lovely, though, with everyone enjoying the long daylight hours in the parks or street cafés.
If someone had just 24 hours in Madrid, what would you tell them to eat and see? Start at Plaza Mayor in the morning, followed by a nice tapas brunch at Mercado de San Miguel. Take a walking tour of the city centre (Almudena Cathedral, Royal Palace, Plaza de España, Gran Via) before chocolate and churros at San Ginés.
Then head over to the Prado or Reina Sofia for your art fix before a little siesta back at your hotel. For sunset drinks with a view, hit the rooftop terrace at Circulo de Bellas Artes. For dinner and more drinks, Museo de Jamón is the place to be.
Happy days! Tell me more about Madrid. Here’s our self-guided walking tour of Madrid with plenty of food stops.
Lisbon, Portugal
What made you fall in love with Lisbon from a cultural perspective? Lisbon is a colourful city with a vibe. It also feels like the kind of city that’s seen heartbreak and doesn’t try to hide it. There are azulejo-covered buildings, graffiti, yellow trams rattling up steep hills, and that mournful Fado music everywhere you go. We loved how Lisbon felt really cosmopolitan, especially with people from the former Portuguese colonies.
What’s the most memorable dish (es) you tried in Lisbon, and where did you have it? Egg tarts from Fabrica Pastéis de Belem, and we had the best seafood meal ever at Cervejaria Ramiro.
What’s one food-related experience travellers shouldn’t miss in Lisbon? Of course, you must have egg tarts, and I’m sure you’ll get more than your daily prescribed dose while in Portugal. The Time Out Market is also a warehouse full of eats not to be missed.
How long would you recommend staying in Lisbon for first-time visitors interested in food and culture?
For first-time visitors, four days, including a day trip to Sintra.
Did you take part in any food tours, wine tastings, or cooking classes? Would you recommend them? No, we ate when and where we wanted. We also stocked our fridge with a few bottles of wine from the supermarket.
Name one cultural site every visitor should see. The Museu Nacional do Azulejo has a staggering number of tiles on display, ranging from small contemporary pieces to gigantic wall panels. To experience Lisbon’s hip culture, LX Factory has an unbeatable vibe.
What time of year did you visit, and did it influence your food or cultural experience? We visited in July, and the popular tourist attractions were really crowded. Weatherwise, Lisbon gets nice sea breezes from the Atlantic, so it was very enjoyable. Everyone seemed to have a great time, and so did we.
If someone had just 24 hours in Lisbon, what would you tell them to eat and see? Begin your day in Belem, visiting the Belem Tower, the Discoveries Monument, and the Jerónimos Monastery before enjoying pastéis de Belem and coffee at the famous egg tart bakery. Stop at the Time Out Market in Cais do Sodré for another bite, and then hop on the tram number 28 and enjoy seeing the best of the city as the yellow tram takes you around Lisbon.
Get off at Miradouro das Portas do Sol for a drink with a view and walk around the Alfama neighbourhood. For the best seafood dinner in Lisbon (approved by Anthony Bourdain), head over to Cervejaria Ramiro for crab and clams with Vino Verde or a few bottles of Sagres.
Happy days! Tell me more about Lisbon. This is how we spent 4 days in Lisbon.
Vienna, Austria
What made you fall in love with Vienna from a cultural perspective? Vienna is a classy place. Polished. Elegant. Everything works like clockwork. But underneath that, there’s a long cultural history that’s still alive. It’s in the cafés, the classical music echoing through old halls, and the sense that art and intellect are still part of the city’s identity. Vienna has some of the best art museums in Europe, and you could spend weeks seeing them all.
What’s the most memorable dish (es) you tried in Vienna, and where did you have it? Tafelspitz (a classic Viennese dish of boiled veal in broth served with a crispy rosti) from Gastwirtschaft Schilling in Neubau. A Käsekrainer hot dog from Bitzinger, and Kaiserschmarrn from Demel Cafe.
What’s one food-related experience travellers shouldn’t miss in Vienna? Go for a decadent coffee and cake at one of the city’s famous cafés.
How long would you recommend staying in Vienna for first-time visitors interested in food and culture?
4 Days
Did you take part in any food tours, wine tastings, or cooking classes? Would you recommend them? No, we don’t really like guided tours, unless we’re short on time.
Name one cultural site every visitor should see. Man, this is difficult. There’s just so much culture in Vienna. I’d have to say The Belvedere to see the Klimt paintings. But then the Kunsthistorisches Museum is damn fine too. Sorry, can’t choose just one.
What time of year did you visit, and did it influence your food or cultural experience? We spent 4 days in Vienna just before Christmas. It was magical, with Christmas markets and lights everywhere, it was the – cliché alert – European Christmas winter wonderland. The cold weather allowed us to spend hours in museums and cafes without feeling guilty.
If someone had just 24 hours in Vienna, what would you tell them to eat and see? I would prioritise visiting the Belvedere and the Kunsthistorisches Museum (KHM). Visit the KHM in the morning, then get your coffee and cake fix at Demel. Walk around the centre, seeing the Stephansdom and the Hofburg.
Swing by the Opera building and grab a Käsekrainer from Bitzinger. Take a tram to the Belvedere Palace to ooh and aah over The Kiss and other Klimt masterpieces. Dinner calls for schnitzel and beer, and for that, you’d want to go to Gastwirtschaft Schilling in Neubau. If you still have a cultural itch to scratch at the end of the day, go see a classical music performance in one of Vienna’s beautiful churches.
Happy days! Tell me more about Vienna. Here’s how we spent four days in Vienna in December. We also have a self-guided tour of Vienna’s most famous buildings, our favourite masterpieces at the Kunsthistorisches Museum, and an overview of what we saw at Klimt’s Beethoven Frieze.
Istanbul, Türkiye
What made you fall in love with Istanbul from a cultural perspective? Istanbul is a sensory overload in the best way. There’s history on every corner, but it’s not in a museum—it’s in the markets, the mosques, the street food. It’s a city where East and West meet, but not in a cliché way; it actually feels like two worlds overlapping.
What’s the most memorable dish (es) you tried in Istanbul, and where did you have it? Any dessert from Hafiz Mustafa (my most recent obsession is their trileche). A fish sandwich from SuperMario. Kofte with hot sauce from Tarihi Sultanahmet Köftecisi, across from the Blue Mosque, and of course, a breakfast at Van Kahvalti Evi in Cihangir.
What’s one food-related experience travellers shouldn’t miss in Istanbul? There are so many. I’d have to say a walk through the Egyptian Bazaar (also called the Spice Bazaar). Here, you can try all the famous Istanbul snacks, teas, spices, and more before you buy. From nuts and caviar to Turkish Delight and sumac spice, this bazaar is your one-stop shop for Turkish food souvenirs and snacks.
How long would you recommend staying in Istanbul for first-time visitors interested in food and culture?
4 Days
Did you take part in any food tours, wine tastings, or cooking classes? Would you recommend them? We’ve been to Istanbul several times. On our most recent visit, we only had a day between connecting flights. We’ve seen the sights already, but we wanted to eat without thinking too much about it.
So we decided to go on this food tour, and it was great. We picked up lokum rolls in the Egyptian Bazaar before taking the ferry to Kadikoy on the Asian side for a market tour and more street food. If you’re short on time but hungry in Istanbul, just book this tour already.
Name one cultural site every visitor should see. The Hagia Sophia, without a doubt. You can see the city’s entire psyche and history in this one single building.
What time of year did you visit, and did it influence your food or cultural experience? We have been to Istanbul seven times, in December, April, July, and August. Spring was by far the most enjoyable, with mild temperatures, tulips everywhere, and light on the crowd factor.
If someone had just 24 hours in Istanbul, what would you tell them to eat and see? Breakfast at Van Kahvalti Evi before a stroll through Karakoy to the Galata Tower. Stop at SuperMario on the banks of the Golden Horn for a fish sandwich before crossing the Galata Bridge to Sultanahmet. Swing by the Egyptian Market before seeing the Blue Mosque and some souvenir shopping at the Arasta Bazaar. Pop over to the Hagia Sophia in the late afternoon to see the last golden light of day stream through the windows.
Get dinner and a few shots of Raki at one of the waterfront restaurants along the Golden Horn (Yelkenci has an amazing mezze platter). After dinner, stroll (or ride the tram) along Istiklal Caddesi and get something sweet at Hafiz Mustafa.
Happy days! Tell me more about Istanbul. This 4-day Istanbul itinerary shows you exactly what we saw and ate in this smashing city. We also have this post on the best places to visit in Istanbul.
What Others Say: Best European Cities for Food & Culture
It’s always nice to hear what others have to say. We don’t want to get caught up in our own heads too much. This is where to go in Europe for cities that offer a perfect blend of culture and food, according to a few other travel experts.
Copenhagen, Denmark
Who do we have here? Hi, my name is Deborah from passporttheworld.com. I have been travelling the world for the last twenty years, looking for the most scenic places and stories worth sharing.
What made you fall in love with Copenhagen from a cultural perspective? I fell in love with Copenhagen because of its cosmopolitan vibe. You can get inspired by fantastic museums and Scandinavian design, explore cool neighbourhoods and enjoy amazing food again and again. And everything can be easily explored on foot or by bike, as the city is very bike-friendly.
What’s the most memorable dish (es) you tried in Copenhagen, and where did you have it? Smørrebrød, open-faced sandwiches topped with different ingredients that are served everywhere in town. My absolute favourite one is the shooting star that comes with fish, shrimp and asparagus on Danish rye bread. The Nordic Cuisine is just amazing. Many restaurants in Copenhagen offer dishes with special attention to fresh and organic.
What’s one food-related experience travellers shouldn’t miss in Copenhagen? In Copenhagen, you really want to visit one of the many food markets. Especially on sunny days, locals gather here for a bite and a drink. While Torvehallerne is the most famous market, it’s often the smaller, hidden ones you stumble upon while exploring the city. Two of my personal favourites are Mikkeller and Papirøen, both beautifully located by the water.
How long would you recommend staying in Copenhagen for first-time visitors interested in food and culture?
3 to 4 days
Did you take part in any food tours, wine tastings, or cooking classes? Would you recommend them? If you are in Copenhagen for the first time, I would definitely recommend going on a food and wine tour to learn more about the famous Nordic Cuisine. After this, you will be familiar with the kitchen, and you will find new spots over and over again.
Name one cultural site every visitor should see. The famous Little Mermaid and Nyhavn, to take scenic pictures.
What time of year did you visit—and did it influence your food or cultural experience? I visited Copenhagen during different seasons, and I would definitely recommend visiting in Spring or Summer. On sunny days, you can buy a bottle of wine and find a place in the park or along the canals, just like the locals do. Moreover, the city offers many open-air concerts and festivals.
If someone had just 24 hours in Copenhagen, what would you tell them to eat and see? With only one day in Copenhagen, I would recommend strolling around the famous Nyhavn to see its typical, brightly coloured houses and wooden boats. Take a picture of the Little Mermaid, walk around Freetown Christiania and enjoy its unique vibe.
I’d definitely have dinner at one of the famous restaurants for a gastronomical experience (Noma, if you can afford it) and finish the day at Tivoli, one of the most romantic amusement parks in Europe.
Happy days! Tell me more about Copenhagen. Here is my guide to the best things to do in Copenhagen.
Krakow, Poland
Who do we have here? I’m Or from mypathintheworld.com. My blog focuses on European destinations. I have extra love for Italy, Spain, and Greece, and I love hidden gems and savouring experiences instead of ticking items off the bucket list.
What made you fall in love with Krakow from a cultural perspective? It’s easy to fall in love with Krakow’s culture because each neighbourhood offers something different – the old town has fascinating history & art museums, the Jewish Quarter is a mix of Jewish sites and hipster bars and street food spots, and Podgórze is underrated with lots of cultural gems.
What’s the most memorable dish (es) you tried in Krakow, and where did you have it? Challah bread breakfast sandwich at Szalej Cafe, Pierogi (Polish dumplings) at Tradycyjne Polskie Smaki Kuchnia polska Kraków, and Vietnamese soup at Hugo Asia.
What’s one food-related experience travellers shouldn’t miss in Krakow? Zapiekanka, a must-try local street food, is mostly sold at Plac Nowy, a little square in the Jewish Quarter. It’s a warm, open sandwich with cheese and other toppings of your liking.
How long would you recommend staying in Krakow for first-time visitors interested in food and culture?
It’s worth spending at least 3-4 days in Krakow itself (not including day trips).
Did you take part in any food tours, wine tastings, or cooking classes? Would you recommend them? I did not try any food tours, mainly because I marked dozens of food spots on the map and wanted to enjoy them on my own, at my own pace.
Name one cultural site every visitor should see. Don’t miss the Sukiennice (Cloth Hall), the city’s historic trade centre that now houses a museum of 19th-century Polish art and the unique Rynek Underground Museum.
What time of year did you visit, and did it influence your food or cultural experience? I visited in May, when the weather and atmosphere were colourful and lively. As temperatures were getting higher, I felt like eating lighter meals (and I enjoyed sitting in the open air)—having just pierogi instead of heavy yet hearty Polish soups and stews, vibrant breakfasts, and street food.
If someone had just 24 hours in Krakow, what would you tell them to eat and see? With only 24 hours in Krakow, I’d start with breakfast at Szalej Cafe, followed by roaming the old town. Have a Polish lunch at Tradycyjne Polskie Smaki Kuchnia polska Kraków, a quick stroll in the courtyards of Wawel Hill, and walk south along the Vistula River.
End your day in the Jewish Quarter with a bit of roaming and dinner at Judah Food Market for street food, Akita Ramen for ramen, or Pierogi MR Vincent for more Polish dumplings.
Happy days! Tell me more about Krakow. Here’s my one-week Krakow itinerary that slowly explores the city and its surroundings!
Bordeaux, France
Who do we have here? I’m Dr Charlotte Russell, a clinical psychologist and the founder of The Travel Psychologist. I’m a big foodie and love European city breaks.
What made you fall in love with Bordeaux from a cultural perspective? Bordeaux is renowned for its world-class wines and has an interesting history tied to the wine trade. It’s also an excellent foodie destination, and the cuisine is top-notch across the city.
What’s one food-related experience travellers shouldn’t miss in Bordeaux? The Cité du Vin is a fantastic wine museum. You will find lots of information about the history of wine and the wine-making process, presented in interactive and fun ways. My highlight was a digital floor where you could crush grapes using your feet. You were scored for your effort and you could have all of the fun of crushing grapes without any of the mess to clean up!
At the end of the tour, you can have a wine tasting at the viewing point on the 8th floor of the building. This offers stunning views across the city while you savour your well-deserved glass of wine.
How long would you recommend staying in Bordeaux for first-time visitors interested in food and culture?
Three nights would be sufficient to explore the city and take a day trip to the vineyards.
Did you take part in any food tours, wine tastings, or cooking classes? Would you recommend them? I took this full-day tour, which included a trip to Saint Emilion and three wineries. It was a memorable experience and fun to learn more about wine production in the area and try the wines. It also included a good amount of time in Saint Emilion, where you could have lunch and explore independently.
Name one cultural site every visitor should see. On a visit to Bordeaux, a trip to the vineyards and wineries around the village of Saint Emilion is a must. This charming medieval village is a UNESCO World Heritage site and has been surrounded by vineyards producing the highest quality red wine since the Roman period.
What time of year did you visit, and did it influence your food or cultural experience? We visited in summer, which was a good time for exploring, but it was very hot (above 30°C)at times. Spring would be a great time to visit and more comfortable. September or October are usually peak times due to the grape harvest.
If someone had just 24 hours in Bordeaux, what would you tell them to eat and see? If you had just 24 hours, I’d recommend visiting the two wine museums and trying the famous canelé pastries. In the evening, you could have dinner at one of Bordeaux’s great restaurants, or if you wanted to try a little bit of everything, visit the Halles de Bacalan food market.
Happy days! Tell me more about Bordeaux. If you want to know more, check out my guide to Bordeaux; the perfect city break for foodies.
Lyon, France
Who do we have here? I’m Lisa from traveltolyon.com. I’m a retired engineer who loves to travel in Europe and take cruises. Solo, with my hubby, with my mom – it’s all good!
What made you fall in love with Lyon from a cultural perspective? Lyon is like Paris’ little sister. It still has incredible food and culture, but is much less crowded. I fell in love with the stunning Notre-Dame de Fourvière Basilica. I mean, who doesn’t love a basilica that locals refer to as ‘the upside-down elephant’?
What’s the most memorable dish (es) you tried in Lyon, and where did you have it? I have a raging sweet tooth, so for me it’s all about the pastries and desserts. I love the massive pain au raisin from the Boulangerie St. Paul. It’s the size of my hand, and you can really taste the rum-soaked raisins!
What’s one food-related experience travellers shouldn’t miss in Lyon? Foodies will want to visit Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse. It’s a gourmet indoor food market with everything from fresh oysters to gourmet cheeses. You absolutely have to try the tarte aux pralines for dessert – it’s one of Lyon’s signature dishes.
How long would you recommend staying in Lyon for first-time visitors interested in food and culture?
Three days is perfect for a first visit to Lyon.
Did you take part in any food tours, wine tastings, or cooking classes? Would you recommend them? I didn’t take any food tours since I’m a picky eater. A lot of Lyon’s most famous dishes are from – shall we say – the more ‘rustic’ portions of the animal. Although I recently saw that a pastry tour is now being offered. That one would be right up my alley!
Name one cultural site every visitor should see. Definitely the Notre-Dame de Fourvière Basilica. It sits on the top of the hill overlooking Lyon, and the views are some of the best in the city. The gilded mosaics adorning the interior walls are mind-blowing, so be sure to go inside.
What time of year did you visit, and did it influence your food or cultural experience? I’ve visited several times, mostly in the summer. I did spend two weeks in Lyon in early May last year, and it was cold and rainy most of the time, so I spent more time in museums than I usually do. But I still braved the weather to search for Lyon’s famous murals.
If someone had just 24 hours in Lyon, what would you tell them to eat and see? If I could only spend one day in Lyon, I would focus on Vieux Lyon. I think it’s the most charming area of the city – and home to my favourite bakery, which is the perfect place to start your day.
Take the funicular up the hill to see the basilica, and check out the Roman amphitheatre on your way back down. Enjoy lunch at a traditional bouchon in Old Lyon (try the quenelles), then wander the cobblestone streets checking out the colourful architecture. Cross the river and take a sightseeing boat cruise, then hunt down a few of Lyon’s amazing murals, such as the Fresque des Lyonnais and Le Mur des Canuts.
Happy days! Tell me more about Lyon. Here is my take on the best things to do in Lyon. You may not be able to do and see all of them on your first visit, but it’s a good reason to come back again!
Catania, Italy
Who do we have here? Ryan & Nan are two curious travel storytellers and adventure photographers who started WaylessTravelers to share their passion for travel with the world. We seek authentic culture, adventure, hiking, and venturing off the beaten paths to uncover the true marvels of the world.
What made you fall in love with Catania from a cultural perspective? Catania totally surprised us. Before arriving, we had heard that it is dirty, chaotic, and only worth using as a stopover to reach the rest of Sicily. Now, having spent over four days there, we have completely fallen in love with the food and culture. Yes, the city is often covered in graffiti and gritty, but there is something truly charming and authentically unique about the place.
At night, the streets come alive with locals, street performers, and vendors, creating an undeniable energy that’s hard to put into words. It feels like you’re witnessing the authentic life of the Catanian people, not something put on for tourists.
What’s the most memorable dish (es) you tried in Catania, and where did you have it? Catania has some incredible seafood. We highly recommend getting a fried seafood cone at Scirocco for a mid-afternoon snack, perfect while strolling through Piazza del Duomo. Then at night, head over to Ristorante da Antonio where you’ll get one of the best grilled seabass, sarde beccafico, spaghetti alla vongole, and finish off with their local speciality, a shot of Rosolio di Mandarino.
What’s one food-related experience travellers shouldn’t miss in Catania? One really fun food experience we had was going to Magna Sicily, which has a terrace right near Piazza del Duomo. Both the drinks and food are tapas-style and very affordable. In this way, you can try out a bunch of different Sicilian specialities while surrounded by the local energy.
How long would you recommend staying in Catania for first-time visitors interested in food and culture?
I would recommend staying a minimum of 3 nights to fully enjoy Catania’s food and culture.
Did you take part in any food tours, wine tastings, or cooking classes? Would you recommend them? We did not take part in any food tours or cooking classes since we had just done a cooking class in Taormina a few days before.
Name one cultural site every visitor should see. We loved visiting the Monastery Benedettini.
What time of year did you visit, and did it influence your food or cultural experience? We visited at the end of August, which coincides with the busy season. Although there were likely more crowds, especially in other cities like Taormina and Ortigia, we felt that this added to the energy and vibrancy of the experience.
If someone had just 24 hours in Catania, what would you tell them to eat and see? With only one day, we recommend spending most of your time around Piazza del Duomo, ordering a fried seafood cone, visiting Monastery Benedettini, maybe taking a cooking class in the evening, and then taking an after-dinner stroll along via Etna, where there is tons of action!
Happy days! Tell me more about Catania. If you’re planning a 1–2 day trip to Catania, we’ve put together a guide to Catania with everything you need to know.
Riga, Latvia
Who do we have here? I am James Fahey from faheyjamestravel.com. My blog primarily focuses on Asian and European travel. I love amazing beaches, temples, history, and most of all, food.
What made you fall in love with Riga from a cultural perspective? I immediately fell for Riga’s beautiful Art Nouveau architecture. The Old Town is extremely picturesque. The food, too, is warm and hearty, reminding me a little of the cuisine of my home country, Ireland. To be honest, Latvia has better cuisine than we do, but that’s not too difficult.
What’s the most memorable dish (es) you tried in Riga, and where did you have it? I still dream of the piragi zeppelins covered in creamy sauce, which I ate right in the centre of Old Town at a place called Province Restaurant. Honestly, the restaurant has a cosy wooden interior and serves the best food I’ve had in Riga. Make this the number one place to eat on your itinerary! It’s right in the heart of the old town.
What’s one food-related experience travellers shouldn’t miss in Riga? This is easy. The Riga Central Market! This market was once a collection of hangars for the Soviet Union’s zeppelins. You can roam around and purchase food from any of the local vendors. I loved the pickled cucumbers. There’s also a place to buy clothes and other garments, but the Riga Central Market is primarily about the food.
How long would you recommend staying in Riga for first-time visitors interested in food and culture?
I recommend staying at least 3 days in Riga.
Did you take part in any food tours, wine tastings, or cooking classes? Would you recommend them? We did not take part in any food tours because we wanted to maximise our time in the picturesque streets of Riga.
Name one cultural site every visitor should see. The Art Nouveau architecture of the Old Town. Everything is conveniently walkable. At night, the House of the Blackheads is beautifully illuminated. The Swedish Gate and the Cat House are both located in the Old Town. My favourite sight was Riga Cathedral, with its stunning architecture and rich history.
What time of year did you visit, and did it influence your food or cultural experience? We visited Riga in mid-March. Though it was very cold, we bundled up and still enjoyed the cultural beauty of the small Old Town.
If someone had just 24 hours in Riga, what would you tell them to eat and see? If you only had one day in Riga, I would strongly urge you to visit the KGB Museum, St. Peter’s Church, and the Old Town. You can explore many interesting sites in the Old Town and appreciate the Art Nouveau architecture in a short amount of time. At night, make sure to have at least one shot of Black Balsam, the Latvian national drink. I brought a big bottle of it home. This way, you can have a real Latvian cultural food and drink experience.
Happy days! Tell me more about Riga. I couldn’t recommend visiting Riga enough. A short city break in the Latvian capital would be ideal. I made a list of the best things to do in Riga so you can start planning your itinerary.
Budapest, Hungary
Who do we have here? I’m Cris from LooknWalk. I’m a vegan tango dancer who has loved travelling since I was a kid. I prefer to explore with my better half (and/or with our friends). We’re mostly budget travellers, but when tango is involved, budget isn’t that much of an issue. My blog is about travelling in Europe as a couple (with a love for tango).
What made you fall in love with Budapest from a cultural perspective? The sheer number of cultural activities available in Budapest made me fall in love with Hungary’s capital from the moment I first visited in 2008. Between visiting museums, exploring historical sites, checking out the Christmas Markets, and attending tango events, you’re never going to be bored in Budapest.
What’s the most memorable dish (es) you tried in Budapest, and where did you have it? Tasting my way through Budapest as a vegan was quite challenging years ago. But lately, I was delighted to find langos with amazing vegan toppings in a small shop on Rakoczi Ut. Or tantalise my taste buds with kürtőskalács at the Christmas Markets.
What’s one food-related experience travellers shouldn’t miss in Budapest? Without a doubt, visiting Budapest is a feast for all your senses. If you don’t visit during an open-air event, then make your way to the Great Market Hall and take it all in. And by all, I mean head up to the food stalls and get your fill of Hungarian staples such as gulyás, töltött káposzta (cabbage rolls) or halászlé (fisherman’s soup).
If you visit during Christmas, a langos with sour cream and cheese or polenta with the same topping will keep you full for hours. Wash it all down with mulled wine.
How long would you recommend staying in Budapest for first-time visitors interested in food and culture?
As long as your budget allows you, but I’d say a minimum of 5 days.
Did you take part in any food tours, wine tastings, or cooking classes? Would you recommend them? I’ve yet to partake in a food or tasting tour in Budapest – somehow the stars never aligned. But I’ve had the pleasure of attending a wine tasting in Balatonfüred. The area is well-known for its wines, and the experience was delightful – if not a bit boozy.
Name one cultural site every visitor should see. A rather hidden gem, Aquincum might not be on everyone’s radar. But the site and the attached museum offer a delightful insight into the area’s Roman times.
What time of year did you visit, and did it influence your food or cultural experience? I’ve been to Budapest almost 20 times so far (not even kiddin’), spanning from Valentine’s escapes to wedding anniversaries (in late May) and Christmas Markets visits. But out of all, I almost always prefer to return in December – that sweet spot between St. Nicholas and Christmas when the Christmas Markets are buzzing, the air is crisp, and all you want to do is eat roasted chestnuts and drink mulled wine.
If someone had just 24 hours in Budapest, what would you tell them to eat and see? Head straight to Vaci utca. There’s almost always some sort of fair there with plenty of stalls. Belly full, walk along the Danube promenade. Take some time to cross the Chain Bridge and walk up to the Castle district. Back in Pest, pass by the Parliament. From here, make your way to the Jewish quarter. You’ll be hungry again, so it’s time for some more food.
Happy days! Tell me more about Budapest. Have a weekend on your hands (or just a few days)? Here’s a simple itinerary to explore Budapest over a few days.
San Sebastian, Spain
Who do we have here? This is Nick from The World Overload, a military veteran who likes to write about solo and budget travel.
What made you fall in love with San Sebastian from a cultural perspective? What really got me was the beach culture here. Spanish culture is already pretty relaxed in general, but adding the cool waters and beaches just puts it over the top.
What’s the most memorable dish (es) you tried in San Sebastian, and where did you have it? This was my first opportunity to try pintxos, and these bite-sized treats just hit the spot. Maybe because it was so fresh as I had selected a seafood option. But I can’t remember the name as this place was chosen at random while wandering the streets. Which is the best way to find the hidden gems.
What’s one food-related experience travellers shouldn’t miss in San Sebastian? Sample the street food in Old Town is a must. San Sebastian is also well known for having many Michelin-star restaurants so that’s an option if you want to pay a little more. But I always prefer the local street food for a more authentic taste.
How long would you recommend staying in San Sebastian for first-time visitors interested in food and culture?
The city is small enough that you need only two days at minimum, three days at most, to get a good overall experience.
Did you take part in any food tours, wine tastings, or cooking classes? Would you recommend them? Sadly, I was in a tour group already and was only there for a limited time. If I had been going solo on my own itinerary, I would have definitely signed up for a local food tour.
Name one cultural site every visitor should see. The San Telmo Museoa is a beautiful museum in a former church. The art displays and exhibits really show you the history of the Basque culture here. Most other cultural sights are outdoors and give you a lot of great landscapes and panoramic scenic views.
What time of year did you visit, and did it influence your food or cultural experience? I visited in the late spring, early summer time. Which means the days were bright but a little chilly sometimes. But it didn’t affect the food and cultural experiences I had. And as a person who prefers a little cold over summer heat, it was much more preferable.
If someone had just 24 hours in San Sebastian, what would you tell them to eat and see? Start with the pintxos, then some tapas, and finish with Pastel Vasco for dessert all in Old Town. Or take a food/wine tour or cooking class as a different option. Walk around and see the plaza and churches in this neighborhoods. Then go to the beaches for some sun and relaxing if you want to make it a lazy day.
Happy days! Tell me more about San Sebastian. All I can say is you must go and see – and eat – this city.
Whether you’re wandering through the alleys of Lisbon, sharing meze in Istanbul, or sipping port by the river in Porto, each of these cities offers a flavourful experience that lingers long after the trip ends. If you’re planning your next escape, let this list of the best European cities for food and culture guide your way. Because the most memorable travels always feed both your curiosity and your appetite.
✌️