Traveling as a vegan can be a rewarding experience, but it can also present unique challenges, especially when it comes to finding plant-based food options. Fortunately, the world is increasingly embracing veganism, with many destinations offering diverse and delicious plant-based cuisine. Whether you’re looking for dedicated vegan restaurants, vegan-friendly hotels, or simply a destination with an abundance of plant-based food options, there are plenty of places around the world where vegan travelers will feel right at home. Here are some of the best destinations for vegan travelers.
- Berlin, Germany
Berlin has long been known as one of the most vegan-friendly cities in the world. With a thriving vegan scene, the German capital offers everything from vegan fast food to fine dining. The city is home to numerous vegan restaurants, cafés, and bakeries, offering a wide range of plant-based dishes, including traditional German food made vegan. Vegan currywurst, schnitzels, and even vegan döner kebabs are just a few examples of local delights that have been given a plant-based twist. In addition to food, Berlin also hosts vegan festivals and events, making it a top destination for those looking to enjoy a vibrant vegan culture.
- Tel Aviv, Israel
Tel Aviv has earned a reputation as one of the most vegan-friendly cities in the Middle East, with a strong emphasis on fresh, plant-based Mediterranean cuisine. The city boasts a large selection of vegan restaurants and cafés, many of which serve dishes inspired by Israeli, Palestinian, and Middle Eastern cuisine. Expect to find a variety of hummus, falafel, baba ghanoush, tahini, and hearty salads, all made from fresh, local ingredients. Additionally, Tel Aviv is home to numerous markets, where you can find organic, vegan-friendly products and snacks. The city’s welcoming atmosphere and abundance of vegan options make it a fantastic destination for plant-based travelers.
- Portland, Oregon, USA
Portland is renowned for its progressive and eco-conscious culture, and its vegan scene is a major part of that. The city is packed with vegan restaurants, food trucks, and cafés offering a wide variety of plant-based dishes. From hearty comfort food like vegan mac and cheese and tempeh sandwiches to fresh salads and raw vegan options, Portland has something for every palate. The city also has a number of vegan-friendly bakeries, serving delicious plant-based pastries and desserts. Portland is also known for its commitment to sustainability, so many restaurants source their ingredients locally and ethically, making it an ideal destination for conscious travelers.
- Chiang Mai, Thailand
Chiang Mai is a paradise for vegan travelers, offering a wide range of plant-based food options, especially in the city’s vibrant markets and street food stalls. Thai cuisine is already rich in plant-based dishes, with many options that are naturally vegan or can be easily adapted. Dishes like pad Thai, green curry, and mango sticky rice are popular and can often be made vegan by substituting meat with tofu or vegetables. Chiang Mai has a number of vegan restaurants and cafés offering delicious Thai-inspired dishes as well as international vegan fare. The city’s laid-back atmosphere and affordable prices make it a great spot for vegan travelers looking for both culinary adventure and relaxation.
- Los Angeles, California, USA
Los Angeles is a vegan-friendly haven with a vast and diverse range of plant-based food options. The city’s food scene is dynamic, with plenty of innovative and exciting vegan restaurants, food trucks, and cafés. From vegan sushi and tacos to plant-based burgers and pizza, LA has it all. The city is also home to several vegan fine-dining establishments, where you can indulge in high-end plant-based cuisine. For those on the go, there are numerous vegan-friendly cafés and smoothie bars offering healthy options, such as acai bowls and cold-pressed juices. Los Angeles is also known for its emphasis on wellness, making it a great destination for vegan travelers who are looking for healthy, delicious food that supports a mindful lifestyle.
- Ubud, Bali, Indonesia
Bali, particularly Ubud, is a paradise for vegan travelers seeking fresh, organic, and plant-based cuisine. The island is famous for its abundance of health-conscious eateries, many of which focus on vegan and vegetarian fare. In Ubud, you’ll find everything from raw food cafés to juice bars and smoothie bowls, as well as restaurants offering Asian-inspired vegan dishes like tempeh curries and vegan rendang. Many of the eateries in Ubud also focus on sustainability, with many dishes made from locally sourced, organic produce. Ubud’s relaxed and spiritual atmosphere, combined with its thriving vegan scene, makes it a top destination for plant-based travelers looking to nourish both their body and soul.
- London, United Kingdom
London has emerged as one of the most vegan-friendly cities in Europe, with a wide variety of plant-based restaurants, cafés, and markets. From trendy vegan eateries serving plant-based burgers and pizzas to high-end restaurants offering gourmet vegan dishes, London has something for every taste. The city also has a large number of vegan street food vendors, offering everything from vegan wraps to ice cream. Borough Market and Camden Market are popular spots for vegan-friendly snacks, while neighbourhoods like Shoreditch and Soho offer a range of vegan options in hip, vibrant settings. With its diverse culinary scene and a growing number of vegan-friendly shops, London is a fantastic destination for any vegan traveler.
- Amsterdam, Netherlands
Amsterdam is another European city that caters to vegan travelers, with a growing number of plant-based restaurants and cafés scattered throughout the city. Dutch cuisine, traditionally meat-heavy, has been reimagined in many of the city’s eateries, offering vegan versions of classic dishes like pancakes, bitterballen (Dutch snacks), and stroopwafels (caramel waffles). Amsterdam is also home to several vegan-friendly markets and food festivals, making it easy to sample a variety of plant-based foods. The city’s focus on sustainability and green living makes it an ideal destination for those seeking ethical and environmentally conscious travel.
- Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona is not only known for its stunning architecture and beaches but also for its growing vegan food scene. While Spanish cuisine is traditionally focused on meat and seafood, Barcelona offers a wide variety of plant-based dishes, from tapas to paella. Many traditional Spanish dishes can be easily adapted to vegan versions, such as patatas bravas (fried potatoes with spicy sauce) and escalivada (grilled vegetables). Barcelona has a range of dedicated vegan restaurants offering Mediterranean-inspired dishes and international flavors. The city is also known for its thriving organic markets, where you can find fresh produce and vegan-friendly products to take home.
- Cape Town, South Africa
Cape Town is emerging as a fantastic destination for vegan travelers, with a growing number of plant-based restaurants offering fresh and flavorful meals. South African cuisine is incredibly diverse, and many traditional dishes can be made vegan, such as hearty vegetable stews, lentil curries, and flavorful salads. The city’s coastal location also means that fresh produce, including tropical fruits, is abundant. In addition to restaurants, Cape Town has several vegan-friendly cafés and juice bars offering smoothies, bowls, and raw food options. Whether you’re exploring the city or hiking up Table Mountain, Cape Town offers plenty of vegan-friendly options that make it an ideal destination for plant-based travelers.
Conclusion
For vegan travelers, the world is becoming an increasingly welcoming place. From cities with long-established vegan scenes to destinations where plant-based cuisine is rapidly gaining popularity, there are countless places to explore that offer delicious vegan options. Whether you’re seeking diverse street food in Chiang Mai, Mediterranean flavors in Barcelona, or trendy plant-based eateries in Los Angeles, these destinations provide a perfect balance of culture, adventure, and ethical dining. So, pack your bags, bring your appetite, and get ready to experience some of the best vegan food around the world!