best places to visit vegan

10 Best Vegan Travel Destinations You Must Visit in 2024

June 3, 2023

Are you a vegan with a passion for travel? Get ready for a culinary adventure as we explore the best vegan travel destinations in 2024, from bustling cities to tropical paradises. We'll uncover the top vegan-friendly cities, vegan paradise islands, cultural vegan experiences, underrated vegan destinations , and global delicacies. Plus, we'll share tips for making your vegan travels a breeze. Let's dive in!

Short Summary

• Explore the world's best vegan-friendly destinations, including Tel Aviv, Berlin, and New York City.
• Discover unique cultural experiences in Greece, Chiang Mai, and Slovenia.
• Enjoy delicious plant-based dishes from Peru to New Zealand on your ultimate vegan adventure!

Top Vegan-Friendly Cities

Vegan explorers rejoice! Some of the world's most vibrant cities are catering to plant-based eaters with a diverse array of delicious vegan food options. Tel Aviv, Berlin, and New York City are just a few examples of urban landscapes where vegan lifestyles thrive, offering everything from traditional dishes to avant-garde creations.

So, whether you're craving vegan pizza or an innovative vegan burger, these cities have got you covered. In these bustling metropolises, you'll find a plethora of vegan eateries, from cozy cafes to elegant restaurants, serving mouthwatering plant-based cuisine.

Many local restaurants in these cities also offer vegan menus, making it easier than ever for vegan travelers to enjoy a satisfying meal while exploring some of the most vegan-friendly destinations in the world.

Tel Aviv, Israel

Welcome to Tel Aviv, proudly known as the world's vegan capital! This vibrant Israeli city boasts an impressive array of vegan options, from flavorful falafels to scrumptious veggie shawarma. Did you know that nearly half of the city's population follows a vegan or vegetarian diet? No wonder you'll find a myriad of vegan eateries here, each with its unique take on plant-based cuisine.

One must-visit spot in Tel Aviv is the inspiring City Tree, an urban “ecology project” that educates city dwellers on living a sustainable and green lifestyle. And when it comes to food, you can't miss the delightful vegan replica of lamb shawarma at Sultuna, made from forest mushrooms, or the vegan pizza at Domino's. Tel Aviv is truly a vegan traveler's dream come true.

Berlin, Germany

Berlin, a city known for its rich history and vibrant culture, is also a haven for vegans. With a plethora of vegan restaurants and cafes, you'll never run out of delicious vegan dishes to try. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with offerings from ATAYA, Feel Seoul Good, Brammibal's Donuts, Sun Day Burger, and Lucky Leek.

For those with a sweet tooth, don't miss Brammibal's Donuts, a delightful vegan donut shop that serves up a wide variety of flavors. And if you're looking for something more substantial, Veg in Berlin offers an exciting selection of soy-based ice creams, a variety of bagels, vegan spreads, smoothies, and much more. Berlin truly is a major city for vegan food lovers.

New York City, USA

The Big Apple is not only famous for its iconic skyline and bustling streets but also for its thriving vegan food scene. New York City is home to a plethora of vegan restaurants, such as Two Boots, Ess-a-Bagel, and Jujube Tree, which are highly acclaimed by both locals and visitors alike.

If you happen to be passing through JFK International Airport, you'll be happy to know that a whopping 90 percent of restaurants at Terminal 4 offer tasty vegan and vegetarian options. And for a truly unique dining experience, be sure to visit Ducks Eatery, where they serve a delightful whole-smoked watermelon “ham,” or try the "Original World Famous Burger" at Marty's V Burger.

New York City is a must-visit destination for vegan travelers.

Vegan Paradise Islands

When you think of a vegan paradise, do palm trees, white-sand beaches, and crystal-clear waters come to mind? If so, then Bali and Jamaica are your dream destinations. These idyllic islands offer breathtaking natural beauty, an abundance of plant-based cuisine, and unique cultural experiences. Get ready to indulge in fresh, tropical vegan eats as you soak up the sun in these vegan-friendly travel destinations.

Whether you're exploring Bali's lush landscapes or Jamaica's vibrant culture, you'll find a wealth of vegan-friendly restaurants, resorts, and activities to make your island getaway truly unforgettable. From yoga retreats to snorkeling adventures, there's something for every type of vegan traveler on these paradise islands.

Bali, Indonesia

Bali, known for its stunning beaches and lush landscapes, is also a vegan traveler's paradise. The island is home to an incredible selection of vegan restaurants , such as Kepitu Restaurant, Waroeng Bernadette, Siboghana Waroeng, Alchemy, KYND Community, The Elephant, Tanaman, Peloton Supershop, Earth Cafe, and Mad Pops. Each of these eateries offers a unique take on plant-based cuisine, making Bali a must-visit destination for vegans.

One standout spot in Bali is Zula in Seminyak, renowned for its organic plant-based menu featuring delicious seitan meatball bolognese, flavorful burritos, and nutritious sushi. Based on advanced nutritional understanding and macrobiotic principles, Zula is a true gem for health-conscious vegan travelers.

Check out our guide to the best vegan resorts in Bali .

Jamaica, a vibrant Caribbean island with a rich cultural heritage, is home to some amazing vegan paradise islands, such as Negril, Montego Bay, and Ocho Rios. The Rastafari way of life, which celebrates a roots or ital diet, influences many Jamaicans to follow a vegan or vegetarian lifestyle, making the island an excellent destination for vegan travelers.

During your Jamaican getaway, be sure to visit some of the island's amazing vegan restaurants, including Bushbar, Zimbali's Mountain Cooking Studio, and Rasta Ade Refreshments. After you've satisfied your hunger, explore the stunning rainforests, snorkel in the Caribbean Sea, or take a yoga class on the beach – the endless possibilities!

Check out our list of the best vegan resorts in Jamaica .

Cultural Vegan Experiences

For those who crave a more immersive experience, why not explore vegan-friendly destinations steeped in rich cultural traditions? Greece and Chiang Mai, Thailand, offer unique opportunities to connect with local customs while enjoying traditional vegan dishes and visiting vegan-friendly temples. A journey to these destinations will tantalize your taste buds and deepen your understanding of diverse cultures and their vegan heritage.

From the ancient ruins of Greece to the tranquil temples of Chiang Mai, these destinations provide a one-of-a-kind opportunity to explore the world through a vegan lens. You'll discover that plant-based eating is not only a modern trend but has deep roots in the history and culture of many societies.

Greece, a country renowned for its ancient history and breathtaking landscapes, also offers a wealth of vegan-friendly cities, restaurants, and experiences. In Athens, Thessaloniki, and Patras, you'll find an abundance of vegan restaurants, shops, markets, and vegan-friendly accommodations. Some of the best vegan restaurants in Greece include Vegan Beat and Trivoli Vegan Kafeneio in Athens, Avocado in Athens, and Plant Kingdom in Palio Faliro.

Greece is also home to numerous vegan paradise islands, such as Crete, Corfu, and Rhodes, which boast a great selection of vegan restaurants, shops, markets, and vegan-friendly accommodations. And for a truly unique experience, don't miss the opportunity to participate in vegan cooking classes, vegan-friendly tours, and vegan-friendly festivals, where you can truly immerse yourself in the culture and cuisine of Greece.

Chiang Mai, Thailand

Nestled in the beautiful northern region of Thailand, Chiang Mai is a vegan traveler's dream destination. Known for its stunning temples and traditional Thai culture, Chiang Mai also boasts a wide variety of vegan dishes, from healthy salad bar concepts to organic farm-to-table offerings. One must-visit spot is Pun Pun, an amazing restaurant located conveniently at Wat Suan Dok temple and on Suthep Road near the university.

In addition to its delicious vegan cuisine, Chiang Mai is also home to a unique Buddhist form of veganism called "Jay." Embraced by many locals, this way of life is just one example of how Chiang Mai's rich cultural heritage is intertwined with veganism, making it a truly immersive experience for vegan travelers.

Underrated Vegan Destinations

If you want to venture off the beaten path, consider exploring some underrated vegan destinations offering unique vegan-friendly restaurants and delicacies. Slovenia and Reykjavik may not be the first places that come to mind when considering vegan travel. Still, these hidden gems boast incredible vegan eateries and one-of-a-kind experiences that will leave you craving more.

From Slovenia's picturesque landscapes to Reykjavik's stunning natural beauty, these underrated vegan destinations provide an extraordinary opportunity to broaden your vegan horizons. So pack your bags and get ready to discover the vegan treasures these lesser-known locales have to offer!

Slovenia, a small European country with a rich cultural heritage, is an exceptional vegan travel destination. The country boasts an abundance of vegan-friendly restaurants, cafes, and markets, making it easy for vegan travelers to find delicious plant-based meals. In Ljubljana, you can attend the exciting Odprta Kuhna culinary event, which takes place every Friday from March through October, offering a truly unique experience.

For those with a sweet tooth, be sure to visit Zvezda and Aroma, where you can find a wide selection of delicious vegan gelato flavors, like berry varieties and decadent dark chocolate. Slovenia is a hidden gem that every vegan traveler should add to their bucket list.

Reykjavík, Iceland

Reykjavik, Iceland's capital and largest city, is celebrated for its vibrant culture, stunning natural beauty, and abundance of vegan restaurants. Some of the most popular establishments include Mama Reykjavik, Himalayan Spice, Reykjavik Kitchen, Gló, Heilsuhsi, Lemon, Cafe Garurinn, and First Vegetarian. With so many vegan eateries to choose from, you'll never run out of delicious plant-based options in this northern gem.

You can explore Iceland's breathtaking landscapes, including glaciers, hot springs, and volcanoes, when you're not indulgent in vegan treats. And if you're a chocolate lover, don't miss the opportunity to visit ChocoMuseo, where you can find dairy-free chocolate to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Reykjavik is an underrated vegan destination that deserves a spot on every vegan traveler's itinerary.

Vegan Delicacies Around the World

Veganism is a global movement, with delicious plant-based delicacies to be found in every corner of the world. From Italian pizza and pasta to Thai curries and Japanese macrobiotics, vegan travelers can embark on a culinary adventure that transcends borders and unites cultures.

So, why not explore the diverse flavors of vegan cuisine and discover your new favorite dish? Some of the most beloved vegan dishes from around the world include guacamole from Mexico, dosa from India, and sushi from Japan. And let's not forget the mouthwatering vegan options in Ethiopian, Indian, Middle Eastern, and Thai cuisine.

The world is a smorgasbord of vegan delights waiting to be savored and enjoyed.

Best Vegan Eats for Adventure Seekers

Look no further than New Zealand and Peru for those who crave an adrenaline rush along with their plant-based meals. These adventure-packed destinations offer unique vegan eats for thrill-seekers, including grilled platters, raw burgers, and milkshakes. Whether you're exploring the lush landscapes of New Zealand or tackling the Andean peaks in Peru, you can fuel your adventures with delicious vegan cuisine.

In New Zealand, you'll find a wide variety of vegan dishes at popular restaurants such as Hillside Kitchen & Cellar and Little Bird Organics. Meanwhile, in Peru, you can enjoy mouthwatering vegan eats at El Jardin de Jazmn and score some dairy-free chocolate at ChocoMuseo.

So gear up, pack your bags, and get ready to embark on the ultimate vegan adventure!

New Zealand

New Zealand, a country known for its stunning landscapes and adventure sports, is also a fantastic destination for vegan cuisine. In major cities such as Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, and Dunedin, you'll find a variety of vegan restaurants, including Burger Plant, Let Them Eat Vegan, Potpourri Vegetarian Cafe, and Aunty Mena's Vegetarian Restaurant & Cafe. Christchurch, in particular, has earned the title of vegan capital of New Zealand, making it a must-visit for plant-based eaters.

For vegans on the go, you'll be happy to know that delicious vegan pies are available at BP and Z Espress petrol stations across the nation. Whether you're road-tripping through the country or exploring the cities, you'll never be far from a tasty vegan snack in New Zealand.

From the Andean mountains to the Amazon rainforest, Peru offers a wealth of adventure opportunities for vegan travelers. Lima, the country's capital, is home to several vegan-friendly restaurants, including Veda Restaurante, Armónica Café, La Verde, Raw Cafe, Las Vecinas, El Jardin de Jazmin, and Seitan Urban Bistro. You won't need to compromise on taste or nutrition while indulging in the country's stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage.

One noteworthy vegan eatery in Lima is El Jardin de Jazmn, which offers delicious pizzas and mushroom skewers in a charming garden setting. And if you're craving something sweet, be sure to visit ChocoMuseo, a museum dedicated to chocolate, where you can find dairy-free chocolate to take home as a souvenir or enjoy during your travels.

Tips for Vegan Travelers

Traveling as a vegan doesn't have to be a challenge if you're well-prepared . Before embarking on your journey, research your destination's vegan-friendly restaurants and customs. This will ensure a successful and enjoyable dining experience and help you confidently connect with locals.

When packing for your trip, consider bringing some vegan snacks , such as trail mix, vegan jerky, fresh fruits and veggies, nuts and seeds, and energy bars. These portable and easy-to-eat options provide the necessary nutrients and energy for your adventures.

And finally, learn a few local phrases related to veganism to communicate your dietary needs with ease. With these tips in mind, you're sure to have a fantastic vegan travel experience!

In conclusion, the world is brimming with incredible vegan travel destinations, from bustling cities like Tel Aviv and New York to tropical paradises like Bali and Jamaica. Whether you're seeking cultural experiences in Greece and Chiang Mai or exploring underrated gems like Slovenia and Reykjavik, there's a vegan adventure waiting for you. So pack your bags, embrace your wanderlust, and get ready to discover the delicious and diverse world of vegan travel!

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the best place to travel if you are vegan.

If you're looking for a destination to enjoy vegan-friendly travel, consider visiting California. With its vibrant vegan scene that includes delicious restaurants and cafes, and health food stores where you can buy ingredients to make your own meals, California is sure to provide an unforgettable experience!

From the bustling cities of Los Angeles and San Francisco to the laid-back beach towns of Santa Cruz and San Diego, California has something for everyone. Whether you're looking for something or not, you'll find it here.

What is the vegan capital of the US?

Portland, Oregon, is the vegan capital of the US thanks to its wide array of delicious plant-based options, including various all-vegan carts and high-end gourmet restaurants.

Discover the unique culinary wonders of Portland for yourself and savor the vegan delights!

Where is the best place to be a vegetarian?

If you're looking for a great place to be a vegetarian, Portland, Oregon, is the perfect destination! With its diverse selection of vegan and vegetarian options, quality food, and accessibility, it tops the list of the most vegetarian-friendly cities in the United States.

If you're looking for a vegan-friendly place to travel, Tel Aviv is the perfect destination! This vibrant city is often referred to as the world's vegan capital, with 1 in 10 of its residents being vegan. You'll have no shortage of vegan-friendly restaurants to choose from here.

Traveling to Tel Aviv will be an amazing experience for any vegan! With its abundance of vegan-friendly restaurants, you'll be able to enjoy delicious vegan meals and explore the city's vibrant culture. Whether you're looking for a relaxing vacation or an adventure, we've got you covered.

What state has the most vegan options?

With an impressive variety of vegan-friendly options, Hawaii , Oregon, and New York are truly leading the way when it comes to accommodating the vegan lifestyle.

Enjoying a delicious meal has never been easier!

15 Best Vegan Travel Destinations (From Worst To Best)

Do you want to visit a vegan haven this year?

In this blog post, I’ve collected and trimmed down a large list of countries to give you the ten best vegan travel destinations in the world. In these destinations, you’re going to find cities where the vegan movement is brimming and ever-expanding.

As you’ll be able to read for yourself, most destinations are modern-world countries where veganism blew up, partly because of the immediate access we have to information.

Being from Portugal, a fairly traditional country where bullfighting still happens, that information crept up to me through a documentary called Cowspiracy. And it was this access to information that allowed millions of people to embrace veganism, as well.

The trend is still growing worldwide, and the way we can know that is by using tools like Google Trends (and Happy Cow) because it allows us to see what people are searching for. And these are essentially the tools I’ve used to come up with the best vegan destinations for any vegan looking to visit a place with awesome vegan food.

Google Trends

Google Trends is a tool that allows you to check if whether or not interest is trending in a particular country, or even worldwide.

I’ve typed in “vegan”, and I’ve set ‘Portugal’ as the location this time around. Plus, I set the time range for the past 5 years. And as you can see, it’s a bull trend.

Over the past 5 years, more and more people have been showing interest in the ‘vegan’ term, which means more people are interested.

But you can go even deeper…

You can see wherein each country is that term being searched for the most.

In Portugal, those are the 5 sub-regions (or districts), where searches for the ‘vegan’ term are being conducted the most. What this also means, is that there’s a higher chance of you finding more vegan restaurants if you visit one of the five sub-regions.

At the same time… you can see which countries are conducting searches related to veganism the most . All you have to is change the location to “worldwide” .

Using this one or any other tool might not be the most precise way of finding out which countries are the most vegan-friendly, but it’s a good starting point.

When you dive a bit deeper and research terms like “vegan recipes” and vegan restaurants near me”; that means the search goes just beyond curiosity.

While Happy Cow can serve us immensely by helping us find a top-notch vegan restaurant, it can also help us figure out how many vegan restaurants we have within a certain location.

Combined with Google Trends, we can more or less figure out if a certain country, city or region is vegan-friendly.

This is especially important because veganism starts with our diets. it’s not like we’re on a strict omnivore diet and can suddenly open an exception to chocolate…

No… we need to ensure we find vegan food in the places we’re traveling to, and this article is to help you find out about the places where you can find a brimming vegan culture… where movements and restaurants are brought to existence at an incredible pace.

Let’s have a look at the best vegan travel destination from worst to best!

The point of this article is to remain current, and therefore the information on this page might change over time.

The data I’ve used here is from 2019 and onward.

This data is essentially interest-level data by Google Trends that we’re confirming using Happy Cow by looking at the number of vegan establishments in a given location.

You might have a country with a high-interest level in veganism, but it might not be ideal to receive vegan travelers. Happy Cow gives us that confirmation.

#15 – Romania

Popularity level (Google Trends) : 24

When I think about Romania, I think about meat and potatoes.

However, the Eastern Orthodox fasting tradition common in most Eastern European countries compels them to abandon meat and dairy during the fasting season.

Not sure whether these recipes were developed for that season in particular, but Romanians have many traditional vegan recipes such as Varza Calita , which is essentially stewed cabbage. Mamaliga , which translates to cornmeal porridge. And Sarmale , which is stuffed cabbage rolls. (This is normally stuffed with meat, but not unusual to find them stuffed with rice as well.)

There are many other vegan recipes you’re able to find in traditional restaurants in Romania, and I don’t think you’d be disappointed.

As far as vegan restaurants go, you can find a few across all Romania, but it’s in Bucharest, the capital city, where you can find most.

#14 – Slovenia

One aspect I found to be common among Eastern European countries is the affordability of eating at a restaurant. And Slovenia is not any different. With 5-7 euros you can stuff your belly and not feel bad about it.

While there are only a few vegan restaurants across the country… you’ll find most of them in Ljubljana, the capital city.

In fact,  you can even find the  Loving Hut , a vegan restaurant chain that sells delicious vegan food at a really reasonable price.  A wrap and chips for 5.50 euros is a bargain.

#13 – Norway

In just 6 years, the number of vegans living in Norway has increased by 80%. And it’s also estimated that 4% of the Norwegian population follows a meat-free diet.

Mind you, these metrics come from a country that allows whale hunting and was once the world’s biggest producer of fox fur.

Fortunately, Norway is experiencing a shift, which you can confirm via data:

• Stores reported a 60% increase in sales of plant-based foods in 2018 when compared to 2017.
• The Norwegian government has agreed to put a stop to mink and fox farming in the country by 2025, shutting down the fur industry there.
• There’s an increasing number of animal activists and protests against animal cruelty.

And while it’s not a vegan paradise, you can find 21 vegan restaurants in Norway. With 13 of them being in Oslo. (According to Happy Cow)

#12 – South Africa

The chances of a booming Veg-African movement are slim, but in South Africa the vegan scene is strong. South Africans are known for their braai or shisa nyama , which in Zulu translates to ‘burn meat’, and is what we describe as barbecue .

But the truth is many traditional African meals are plant-based. Yam and vegetables, Ghanaian beans and plantains, South African pap and chakalaka, and Kenyan chapati and vegetable stew. Just to name a few.

Even if no vegan restaurants existed in South Africa, you’d still be able to eat vegan, because plant-based food is ingrained in their roots.

And fortunately, today you can find a strong vegan movement taking place in Cape Town. Where slowly you see more and more people embrace a more sustainable lifestyle, free from animal cruelty.

#11 – Finland

For people unfamiliar with Finland’s culture, you would probably think of Finland as the first country to embrace veganism due to its progressive conduct.

However, they have a deep-rooted hunting and fishing background, born from the need to withstand long, and harsh winters. As food distribution improved, hunting and fishing left from being an absolute necessity to becoming a sport.

Thankfully, in recent years there was a boom. And you can now find a wide array of vegan options in Finnish restaurants and supermarkets. Even smaller supermarkets in more remote towns tend to have a section dedicated to vegan ingredients.

Veganism is booming in some Finnish schools as well — where they serve only meat-free meals once a week while providing vegetarian options for the remaining days.

Helsinki happens to be the center place of the vegan boom, where you can find amazing vegan restaurants, each one with its creative flair of recipes.

#10 – Denmark

Denmark’s capital city, Copenhagen, was actually named among the most vegan-friendly cities in Europe . And Denmark as a whole is blooming and embracing veganism, due mostly to environmental reasons.

Even Danish politicians from two different political parties completed a 22-day vegan diet to draw attention to how Western food production has an enormous climate footprint.

This progressive behavior from Danish politicians doesn’t surprise me, given how Copenhagen was named the European Green Capital in 2014.

They are forward-thinking indeed. 🙂

According to Happy Cow, Copenhagen has 25 vegan restaurants you can visit, which is quite significant considering it’s a small city that harbors 600k people.

#9 – Ireland

Similar to the countries I’ve mentioned above, Ireland is also embracing veganism and making changes one step at a time.

It’s not a mecca for the movement, but it’s not a complete stranger to it either.

This beautiful country is quickly catching wind of what veganism represents, by making available the options vegan seek the most, particularly in Dublin .

#8 – Singapore

The vegan movement is booming in Singapore, and the city is fast becoming a haven for plant-based individuals. Not my cup of tea (as I prefer to live in nature), but I totally wouldn’t mind dropping by to explore the vegan culture emerging in the city.

And lest not forget that Singapore was once considered the 2nd most vegan-friendly Asian city by PETA Asia, and the 6th top vegan city in the world by Happy Cow.

#7 – Netherlands

The vegan scene in the Netherlands is strong.

Unlike Ireland, where Dublin is the centerpiece of the vegan movement, here the case is somewhat different.

In the Netherlands, there’s one more city where vegan gastronomy is shining. There’s Amsterdam with 38 vegan restaurants, while Rotterdam, the second biggest city in the Netherlands has twelve.

This is impressive considering the Netherlands is two times smaller than Ireland but has triple the number of restaurants.

#6 – Sweden

One in ten people in Sweden is a vegetarian or vegan, according to a survey .

Coming from a country known for its meatballs, that is damn impressive. Today, you can easily find vegan restaurants in most big cities. With Stockholm, Gothenburg, and Malmö being the heaviest hitters on that department.

You’re also able to find regular restaurants with a few vegan options, making it possible for vegans to eat anywhere.

This being said, the southern cities tend to be more welcoming to vegans, while northern cities tend to focus mostly on meat, fish, and dairy. But don’t let that deprive you of visiting beautiful northern cities, because there’s always a solution.

Supermarkets in Sweden tend to have a huge variety of dairy and meat-free options.

#5 – Australia

Despite being one of the countries where the consumption of meat is the highest… Australia is fighting for the crown for the best vegan destination.

This is one country where people are friendly, thrill-seekers, open-minded, and enjoy living a healthy lifestyle. Because of these traits, you’ll find many vegan-friendly restaurants, as well as restaurants that are happy to accommodate if necessary.

In Australia, there are nearly 300 vegan restaurants. New South Wales, Victoria, and Queensland are where vegan gastronomy seems the hottest.

#4 – United States

A report released in 2017 reveals that 6% of the American population is now vegan. That’s a 600% increase in three years.

Plus, I found out that in the United States, there are an astounding 1488 vegan restaurants. The states with the majority of vegan restaurants are the following: California, New York, and Florida. Each state has more than 100 vegan restaurants.

The states with the lowest number of vegan restaurants are Alaska, Kansas, West Virginia, Alabama, South Dakota, Mississippi, and Delaware.

#2/3 – Germany

Germany is known for its beer and sausages, but it also dominates the global vegan product market, according to a report launched by Mintel . The report reveals that Germany accounts for 15% of vegan introductions all over the world.

Every vegan knows Berlin for its vegan-friendliness. It has cemented its reputation as the original vegan hub of Europe, with its vegan restaurants and movements everywhere.

Also, the German government makes an effort to listen to the population and promote pro-environment alternatives. I’d say this should be a go-to destination for any vegan.

#2/3 – United Kingdom

In the UK is where you find the highest number of vegan restaurants in Europe.

Just in England alone, there are 455 vegan restaurants.

Around 170 of them located in a radius of 8 km around London.

That number is increasing, alongside eco-grocery shops and cruelty-free clothing shops.

These outstanding numbers point to an increase in demand, from an increasing population of vegans. In fact, research from 2018, suggests that more than 3.5 million UK residents currently identify as vegan. That number represents 7% of the population.

#1 – Israel

Tel-Aviv, the capital of Israel is considered the capital of veganism .

There are over 400 vegan-friendly places in Tel-Aviv alone.

And just like every other place, those numbers increase every year.

In fact, the tourism department of Israel promotes the country as a ‘Vegan Nation’. With Tel Aviv as the center of all veganism.

Hummus, tahini, falafel… those are at the core of Israeli cuisine, which are all vegan ingredients. Tel-Aviv is also known for the amazing and flavourful dishes born from the use of those very same ingredients.

It doesn’t matter where you go, you can get vegan food!

Alexandre Valente

reach us at [email protected]

Vegan foundry ⓒ 2024.

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Home » Vegan Lifestyle » Family » 20 Vegan Travel Destinations with Incredible Plant-Based Food

20 Vegan Travel Destinations with Incredible Plant-Based Food

Let’s face it: one of the most exciting aspects of traveling is exploring with our palates, engaging with unique and flavorful dishes from all around the globe. The same still applies for vegans and vegetarians!

While some places still have scant plant-based offerings, there are many vegan-friendly travel destinations that will excite your taste buds with all the flavors of the region, completely cruelty-free.

We’re delighted to share with you a vibrant collection of vegan travel destinations around the world. From east to west, north to south, there’s no shortage of vegan-friendly cities to explore on your next vacation. Here’s just a brief taste to whet your appetite for adventure.

Portland, Oregon

Some call this little slice of the Pacific Northwest a vegan paradise, and for good reason. Where else can you hope to find a fully vegan strip mall, complete with plant-based cheese shop, tattoo parlor, bakery, and so much more?

Portland is a place where individuals and startups are celebrated, which has given rise to a thriving food cart scene, countless micro-breweries, small batch roasted coffee beans, and a dozen different plant-based pop-ups on any given day. Work up an appetite hiking, rafting, and enjoying the art scene to maximize your eating opportunities. Trust me, you’ll want a least one bite of everything.

Seattle, Washington

Beyond the pioneering coffee scene, Seattle is a dynamic seaport city that takes their abundance of fresh, local produce seriously. Vegetables are often at the center of the plate at any given eatery, high-end and low-brow, vegan or not.

No establishment is off limits, but even greater culinary treasures can be found in any of the dozens of dedicated plant-based businesses at your disposal. Take comfort in classic American fare or spice up your life with a bountiful bowl of pho; it’s easy to get your fill of nature, music, and great food all in one place.

Oakland, California

Showcasing the diversity of California cuisine through the lens of many different cultures, you can get a bite of just about anything in this Bay Area hot spot. That means authentic Ethiopian and Burmese staples, found right alongside compact tacos shops and plenty of homegrown pop-ups.

Given the dense layout of shops, stemming from critical BART and bus stops, it’s easy to start a food crawl that will take you through a dozen cuisines or more. The spirit of innovation is alive and well throughout the Bay Area, with plant-based alternatives leading the way.

Atlanta, Georgia

When homestyle southern cooking and soul food meet, an unforgettable fusion of comfort food occurs. It’s just like mama used to make, but better, because these upgraded classics are now meatless, eggless, and dairy-free!

That means crispy fried chicken, boudin balls, po’ boys, and BBQ is back on the menu. Try to leave room for dessert, difficult as it may be, for your pick of sweet treats galore. Pack your stretchy pants and come hungry; you’ll only regret not going back for seconds.

New York City, New York

Get into a New York state of mind and clear your calendar. You’ll need every minute possible to pack in the dizzying array of plant-based eats lining every street and alleyway.

We’re talking about gourmet, Michelin-starred fine dining, late night thin crust pizza sold by the slice, and absolutely everything in between. We’re talking over 150 vegan and vegetarian establishments, before we even begin looking at omnivorous restaurants with full vegan menus or robust plant-based options.

Try to take a bite out of the Big Apple but know when to admit defeat and plan another trip back for more!

Chicago, Illinois

Be prepared to get blown away by the vegan options in the Windy City. Get all dressed up to explore the mind-boggling world of molecular gastronomy or get down and dirty with your favorite greasy spoon gut bombs. Even the raw food movement is alive and well here, offering a healthy balance to any irresistible over-indulgences.

No matter your mood or cravings, the “birthplace of modern architecture” is building an unshakable foundation for the vegan community, and all those who wish to share.

Orlando, FL

Soak up the warm weather in the center of the Sunshine State, decked out with an unrivaled collection of theme parks and family-friendly attractions.  Of course, you don’t need a season pass to have full access to the equally thrilling array of dining options beyond the Magic Kingdom.

Chill out or get fired up on everything from dairy-free ice cream to fiery Caribbean seasonings. Even if you only manage to eat your way through a few square miles, you’ll still agree it’s the happiest place on earth.

Asheville, North Carolina

Frequently voted the number one food destination by Yelp diners, Asheville is a bit of a sleeper hit that’s more inclusive of plant-based eaters than you may imagine. Blending the best elements of the American south and Appalachian cuisine, Asheville boasts an inspiring mountain-to-urban food scene that includes eaters of all stripes.

There’s even an annual VeganFest event every June, making meat alternatives the first choice for those seeking more compassionate eats. No matter when you go, you can expect an unforgettable array of dining options year-round in the “Paris of the South.”

Charlotte, North Carolina

A hidden gem in the American culinary landscape if there ever was one, Charlotte serves up all the convenience and diversity of a big city, packed into one cozy gathering point with small-town vibes. Like friendly neighbors, everyone is welcome at the table here, especially vegans, vegetarians, those with food allergies, and any other dietary restrictions.

For all cravings healthy or hearty, sweet or savory, fancy or no-frills, a visit to the Queen City will make anyone feel like genuine royalty.

Houston, Texas

There’s more than meat and potatoes sustaining modern cowboys in this bustling Texas city. Houston is home to an incredibly array of world cuisines, which cater to a mind-boggling number of eaters every day.

Don’t limit yourself to just chips and salsa when there’s a dazzling selection of authentic Asian, Indian, Mexican, and much more just steps away. Believe it or not, this is a great destination for those dining on a budget or sticking to strictly whole foods, too. Don’t judge a book by its cover, or a city by its past.

Cleveland, Ohio

Get ready to rock and roll with the music greats of Ohio! You’re sure to work up an appetite after a jam session, and you’re in the right spot to make every meal count. Since there are a limited number of dedicated vegan eateries, look beyond labels and your diligence will be rewarded. There are well over 100 spots with brilliant plant based options, so everyone can eat well no matter where hunger strikes.

Sacramento, California

There’s gold in these hills, and I’m not talking about the gilded metal. Now the California capitol city is rich with wineries and restaurants making the most of the lush local produce.

You’re in for a cruelty-free treat no matter what you’re craving, since good food is an affordable luxury that everyone can appreciate. Whether you splurge on a full tasting menu or go for fast food convenience, you’ll feel like a million bucks for making the compassionate, and delicious, choice!

Berkeley, California

As the birthplace of the free speech movement and hippie counterculture of the 1960s, Berkeley , California maintains a diverse population with equally unique dining attractions.

The farm-to-table cuisine originated here and is still going strong through a never-ending push for more eco-friendly, local, and sustainable options. That puts veganism at the forefront of this modern food revolution. You’d be hard pressed to find an establishment without at least a veggie burger or vegan cheese pizza, but that’s just the start.

Join the revolution by checking out an all-vegan butcher shop, high-end sushi joint, coffee roastery and bakery, and so much more.

Austin, Texas

Don’t go it alone in the Lonestar State; you’ll want someone there to help you tackle the staggering number of vegan Tex-Mex specialties and more.

Keep Austin weird by celebrating the eclectic collection of art galleries, live music shows, and food truck culture, catering to all tastes. The summers are blazing hot, but the plant-based food scene is even hotter, with new restaurants being added to the roster every year. No matter when you visit, there will be something fresh and flavorful to try.

Boston, Massachusetts

Beantown has so much more than just molasses-soaked legumes to offer. As a thriving New England college town, you can expect plenty of cheap eats, walkable streets, and outrageous treats.

Italian food still rules, with pizza and pasta leading the way, but now there’s room at the table for steaming bowls of pho, ramen, and curry, too. As the home of the very first Thanksgiving meal, Boston maintains the spirit of generosity, even if it puts up a tough front at first. Eat vegan fearlessly and your leap of faith will be rewarded.

San Francisco, California

Tech innovations put San Francisco on the map, but culinary creativity is at the same lofty level. Famed for its distinctly tangy sour dough bread, giant “Mission-style” burritos stuffed with French fries, and unrivaled dim sum brunches, there’s never a dull meal in store for those who venture off the beaten path.

Skip tourist traps at Pier 39 or near Lombard Street; hop on BART and live like the locals do, going wherever those metal tracks take them. If you see a line, you’ll know something delicious waits at the end.

Hawaii feels like a world away, while having all the same comforts of home. Ease into island time, unwind by the ocean, and pop a straw into a whole, ice-cold coconut to set the mood right. Acai bowls, juices, and shave ice will be your new best friends, alongside more tropical treats unique to Kauai. It’s the perfect place to slow down and relax, with tons of ripe fruits and Hawaiian staples to refuel along the way.

London, England

Wake up to a spot of tea and a full English breakfast but make it plant based! No problem at all in London, the origin of Greenpeace, the anarchist environmentalist activist collective that was one of the first groups pushing a vegan agenda. That spirit has encouraged many more organic, locally grown, and seasonal foods to spring up across the often foggy-covered city, lifting spirits even on the greyest days.

In the UK, you’ll find hundreds of vegan-friendly restaurants, bakeries, cafes, markets, and so much more. You could live here your whole life and still never get a taste of them all, which is a wonderful problem to have.

Santiago, Chile

Though once dominated by meat-heavy dishes and barbecue in particular, Chile’s capital city is becoming a genuine rainforest retreat for compassionate eaters, too. As one of Latin America’s fastest-growing economies in recent decades, global influences are rapidly reshaping all facets of daily life.

Even the smaller, surrounding towns have a lot to offer, with many “accidentally” vegan or easily veganizable essential dishes. Learn the lingo and soak in the sun to experience everything this Spanish-speaking metropolis has to offer.

Disneyland & California Adventure

Calling all Disney lovers! Disneyland and it’s associated theme parks have become extraordinarily vegan-friendly. There is now a vegan option on nearly all the menus at Disneyland, including vegan pizza, vegan meat, vegan cheesy foods, and more. Mickey Mouse pretzels and Dole Whip, here you come!

Please DON’T Visit Pig Beach

If you’ve been dreaming of swimming with the pigs you’ve seen galavanting in crystal clear waters in the Caribbean, please read this article about the famous swimming pigs at Pig Beach first. While it this popular tourist hotspot seems like a pig’s paradise in the photos, in reality it’s a tourist attraction that many of the pigs and piglets won’t survive. Please think twice before booking a ticket.

Vegan Travel Destinations By The Numbers

This list, based on an analysis of TripAdvisor data for over 250 cities, has us scrambling to fill up our piggy banks so we can one day enjoy all of this awesomeness. 

The most exciting part is that almost every major city in the world is seeing an explosion of plant based options. It’s no longer a passing trend but a legitimate movement.

Even Barcelona, Spain —a notoriously meat-centric travel destination—is hopping with more than a dozen vegan and vegetarian restaurants and shops. The world is evolving, and fast! If you want another fabulous and interesting way to travel, check out this guide on Vegan Cruises !

Vegan travelers will no longer have to pack their suitcase with granola bars or subsist on dry bread. Hallelujah and bon voyage!

What are your favorite vegan travel destinations? Let us know over on Facebook , Twitter , or  Instagram using the hashtag #WorldofVegan.  

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This article is so helpful for travel! So many options and suggestions to make planning less stressful

Very enticed to travel now and try out all the delicious vegan places! Thanks for this!

What a comprehensive guide. Now I want to go everywhere and eat everything! 🙂

This is AMAZING! Wow…it’s such an inspiring and helpful guide for vegan traveling. Can’t wait to travel more so I can use this awesome information 😀

I want to go to all of these places!! I was in San Francisco a few years ago and the vegan scene was awesome then! A place not on the list but Mexico City has a lot of amazing vegan options too! So glad to see the world changing!

I want to go to all of these places!

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Paradise Found: 7 Plant-Based Resorts on Our Bucket List

By Megan Edwards ,

In need of a little R&R? These incredible vegan resorts from around the world will inspire the travel bug and tempt your taste buds. From luxurious tropical getaways to serene alpine retreats, you’ll feel nourished and renewed after spending time at these dream destinations.

All our picks serve up delicious plant-based meals that can be made oil-free upon request, so feel free to indulge yourself as you kick back in paradise.

1. Stanford Inn by the Sea

Mendocino, California

Overlooking the rugged green coastline of central California, this vegan boutique hotel is equal parts cozy and classy. Onsite organic gardens supply the kitchen with fresh produce while gorgeous indoor pools make it easy to unwind in between gourmet meals. Enjoy private wellness classes, breathtaking bike trails, and all the comforts of a high-end hotel that still manages to feel like home. From $350/night; stanfordinn.com

2. Mother Earth Vegan Hotel

Tamarindo, Costa Rica

Relax in the lush surroundings of this tropical getaway nestled in a quiet neighborhood near Costa Rica’s pristine Tamarindo beaches. Created for conscious travelers, this chic hotel prides itself on sustainability by ensuring everything from its bed linens to its vibrant vegan meals are eco-friendly. A rooftop wellness studio offers yoga classes, Reiki, massages, sound baths, and plenty of other healing experiences to complement your poolside lounging. From $350/night; meveganhotel.com

3. Dreamers

Wilmington, North Carolina

The whimsical interior design, thoughtful amenities, and close proximity to both a bustling downtown and beautiful beach are just a few of the reasons this pet-friendly vegan hotel made our bucket list. An onsite chef is available to prepare boxed lunches, happy hour hors d'oeuvres, and gourmet four-course meals to satiate all your vacation cravings. And while there’s plenty to do around town, the clawfoot tubs, private yoga classes, and spacious rooms may tempt you to stay on the property for your entire visit. From $180/night; dreamerswelcome.com

Glenorchy, New Zealand

Located in the stunning Southern Alps of New Zealand’s South Island, this holistic wellness retreat center offers five- to seven-night all-inclusive experiences that will replenish your mind, body, and spirit. Daily activities include yoga, hiking, massages, functional fitness classes, meditation, vegan cooking demonstrations, and sauna time. The gorgeous eco-friendly lodging and thoughtful programming are designed to transform your physical and emotional health so you leave the mountains feeling renewed. From $3,716 for a five-night retreat; aro-ha.com

5. ahead burghotel

Lenzen, Germany

Live out your fairytale dreams in this gorgeous castle-turned-hotel in the German countryside. Spend your days wandering the castle gardens, relaxing in the Finnish sauna, taking mindfulness classes, and savoring the superb plant-based cooking. Striking the perfect balance between an outdoor escape and restful sanctuary, this budget-friendly vegan hotel will help you unwind from the hustle and bustle of daily life. From $77/night; aheadhotel.de

6. Koukoumi

Mykonos, Greece

Combining the iconic architecture of the Greek islands with the luxurious amenities of a high-end spa, this vegan hotel is devoted to your complete relaxation. Wake up in a spacious bohemian suite before lounging at the pool, enjoying a massage, or exploring the quaint village surrounding this five star experience. Visually stunning vegan dishes are available all day to delight your senses and leave you feeling nourished from the inside out. From $323/night; koukoumihotel.com

Playa del Carmen, Mexico

Perched on a stunning white sand beach and surrounded by lush jungle, this all-inclusive luxury vegan resort serves up a truly transformative experience. Spend your days lounging in a seaside cabana or partaking in the consciously curated daily wellness activities that include yoga, meditation, sound healing, cacao ceremonies, and more. The six exquisite onsite restaurants provide decadent plant-based nourishment that feed both your stomach and your spirit. The thoughtful programming, attentive staff, and exciting wildlife make this tropical getaway a 10/10 experience. From $940/night, thehouseofaia.com

Looking for More Vegan-Friendly Getaways?

To discover plant-based hotels around the globe, visit vegan-welcome.com and veggie-hotels.com , two travel sites that let you search by country, vacation type, price range, and other important criteria (such as pet-friendly accommodations). Happy travels!

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Most Vegan Friendly Cities in the World in 2024

• December 20, 2023

This post may contain affiliate links (see full disclaimer ). This means if you make a purchase after clicking, I may get a small percentage of the sale, at absolutely no extra cost to you.

Wondering where the most vegan friendly cities are? For the last few years, I’ve been compiling lists of the top vegan cities in the world (published in my book – click here to find out more about my vegan travel guide ).

Initially, I just chose the cities with the most vegan restaurants, but in 2019, I decided to calculate the highest number of vegan restaurants per capita.

After all, the most vegan cities in the world should have a lot of vegan restaurants relative to their population size — making them some of the best places for vegans to live or visit.

Below the list of cities, you’ll find more about my methodology. Data on restaurants sourced from Happycow. Population data from Wikipedia.

Sadly when compiling this year’s list I noticed a lot of cities had suffered restaurant closures, likely due to the pressures post-pandemic and economically – but not every city. Berlin, for example, increased its number of fully vegan restaurants from 106 to 129 while Taipei went from 83 to 102, a whopping 23% rise.

Travelling to vegan friendly cities is wonderful for anyone following the vegan lifestyle, but staying in a vegan hotel can take it up another notch. Looking for vegan hotels or resorts? I’ve got a list of vegan hotels here , and a guide to vegan friendly resorts here .

And now…onto the list of the top vegan friendly cities!

Most Vegan Friendly Cities in the World per Capita: 2023

25. hamburg, germany, 2.9 vegan restaurants per 100,000 residents.

Hamburg nabbed a spot in the top 25 for the first time ever this year, which is not surprising when you consider how vegan-friendly Germany is as a whole .

I’m so happy to see Hamburg in this list; when I visited Hamburg a decade ago it was already pretty good for vegans, with lots of veggie restaurants and some non-veg places offering vegan dishes, but these days it boasts more than 50 fully vegan restaurants.

As well as exploring the canals, there are plenty of vegan restaurants to explore. Hamburg is home to a few vegan Vietnamese restaurants, so you could chow down on summer rolls or a tempeh bowl at Bodhi , or for something different, head to Amargi , a cultural centre which serves vegan Syrian food.

Find out more: Vegan Hamburg Guide on Travelers and Dreamers .

25. Kyoto, Japan

Kyoto is a surprise addition to this year’s list and it now boasts more than 40 fully vegan restaurants. Japan has not always been the easiest place to travel as a vegan, as I discovered when I went to Tokyo years ago, as chefs are reluctant to make changes/adaptations to dishes, so it’s often better to seek out fully vegan restaurants. Thankfully, there are plenty of choices for vegan travelers in Kyoto now.

From a branch of Itadakizen (I love their London restaurant) to vegan ramen at Vegan Ramen Towzen , you’ll have lots of options in Kyoto.

Find out more: Vegan Kyoto Guide on I Travel for Vegan Food

23. Berlin, Germany

3.3 vegan restaurants per 100,000 residents.

People have often called Berlin vegan capital of the world and with good reason. Similarly to London, it boasts not just a huge number of vegan restaurants (though per capita not enough to make the list) but also many, many restaurants offering vegan options.

Whilst Berlin didn’t make the list during the pandemic, it’s come roaring back and in the last year the number of 100% vegan restaurants in Berlin has soared from 106 to 129.

It even has a vegetarian hotel (see my guide to Berlin’s vegan friendly hotels  here )! 

Germany, which many still associate with a meat-heavy diet, often surprises visitors with its range of vegan alternatives. A few years ago,  Germany launched more vegan products than any other country .

So if you want to visit the best vegan places, Berlin should be on your list.

Where to stay:   Check out my guide to vegan-friendly hotels in Berlin .

Find out more: Best Vegan Berlin Restaurant Guide on Mostly Amelie .

22. Da Nang, Vietnam

3.4 vegan restaurants per 100,000 residents.

A coastal city between Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City popular with visitors to Vietnam travelling between the two, Da Nang is also very vegan-friendly.

At Roots , you’ll find healthy bowls with wakame, turmeric tofu and pickled ginger. Annen Beach cafe is a must-visit if you like banh mi for the vegan sandwich with lemongrass tofu, pesto and mushroom.

Find out more: Check out Vegan Food Guide to Da Nang on Carry On Only .

21. Prague, Czechia

3.7 vegan restaurants per 100,000 residents.

The beautiful city of Prague has fallen a few spots since appearing at number 10 in 2020, but it still appears much higher on this list than I expected.

When I visited a few years ago, it was fairly easy to eat vegan but these days, it’s extremely popular, and one of the highest ranked vegan cities in Europe!

Pop into Moment cafe , which was my favourite find when I was in Prague. A fully vegan cafe, go there for coffee, cake and brunch/light food options such as leek tart or vegan scrambled eggs.

If you’re in the mood for something heartier, find vegan lasagne at Pastva .

Find out more: Check out the Vegan Prague Guide by Prague-based vegan blogger Veggie Visa

21. Barcelona, Spain

This year, Barcelona (where I’m based) is back on the list. In 2020, Barcelona was home to 24 vegan restaurants – now it’s up to 58!

Barcelona’s vegan scene is growing quickly, in spite of the pandemic, and surprising many in a land that worships chorizo and jamon (Spanish-style ham, which is liberally put on just about every dish in Spain).

Barcelona’s burgeoning vegan scene now counts a multitude of vegan burger places like La Golosa, while on the other end of the scale it’s home to upscale vegan sushi eatery Roots & Rolls and vegan slow food restaurant Rasoterra . There’s also vegan Mexican at Gallo Santo and Monchito , three vegan ice cream places and much more. 

Not to mention the fact that in 2016 Barcelona declared itself a #VegFriendlyCity! Heading to Barcelona? Don’t miss my vegan guide.

Where to stay: Eco Boutique Grau

Find out more: Read my Ultimate Vegan Guide to Barcelona

19. Washington, DC, USA

3.8 vegan restaurants per 100,000 residents.

DC has risen a few spots since appearing at 21st last year.

Home to a number of animal organizations, it’s also home to plenty of plant-based restaurants. Sticky Fingers Diner (formerly Fare Well) is an all-vegan diner where the Humane League hosts monthly drinks.

Its sister restaurant, Sticky Fingers , is a well-known vegan bakery — head here for sticky buns, cookies and more.

If you love Middle Eastern food, don’t miss Shouk , a vegan Israeli restaurant where you’ll find falafel, mushroom shawarma and more.

Find out more: Check out The Best Washington DC Vegan Travel Guide on Veggies Abroad .

4.1 vegan restaurants per 100,000 residents

I’m thrilled Taipei made the list again this year after being knocked off it in 2023, as Taipei is my favourite place I’ve ever travelled for vegan food! Taipei is certainly one of the best cities in the world for vegans, as it was even a decade ago when I visited. Nowadays, it’s more vegan-friendly than ever!

What makes Taipei one of the best vegan destinations? I found even back in 2010, I found vegetarian and vegan places everywhere and even wrote about whether it was one of the most vegan-friendly countries .

I didn’t need to look on a map – all I did was walk around and there was one on almost every block. That’s why I’ve long believed it’s one of the best places for vegans to travel.

Head to Brother Su to try traditional Taiwanese dishes made vegan. Or go for a fine dining experience at vegetarian restaurant Yu Shan Ge , which is where I had one of the best meals of my life in terms of service (as well as food).

I can’t say if it’s as good as it was in 2010, but I was impressed by this fine dining experience; menus start at six courses and it’s expensive by local standards but easily one-fifth of the cost an equivalent meal in New York or London would cost.

Find out more: Vegan Taipei Guide on I Travel for Vegan Food .

17. Zurich, Switzerland

Zurich was the first, and so far only, Swiss city to make the list and it pleased me, given I’ve often heard stories of the meat- and cheese-heavy Swiss cuisine. Times are changing, and Zurich is home to 16 fully vegan restaurants.

Zurich is home to the Europe’s oldest vegetarian restaurant, Hiltl (which spawned Tibits in London, which unfortunately closed during Covid).

According to the Guinness Book of World Records, Hiltl is the oldest continuously operating vegetarian restaurant in the world , having opened in 1898. However, Pancham Puriwala in Mumbai in fact opened in 1848 , 50 years prior. Still, Hiltl does have a 100+ year legacy!

Head to Hiltl and check out its vegan offerings, or for something different, check out Zurich’s 100% vegan Indonesian restaurant, Dapur .

Find out more: Check out How to Eat Vegan in Zurich on Zucker & Jagdwurst

Glasgow, Scotland

4.2 vegan restaurants per 100,000 residents.

Voted by PETA as the most vegan-friendly city in the UK a few years ago, and considered one of the best places to live as a vegan, Glasgow is home to multiple vegan bars and pubs and has moved up the rankings several spots after coming in 25th last year.

Get a pint and vegan grub at vegan bars Mono or Stereo , a full cooked breakfast or sandwich at Soy Division .

Where to stay: The Blythswood Square Hotel is one of the most eco-friendly hotels in the UK, with rainwater use, solar roof panels and geothermal heating.

It offers a luxurious stay in a historical setting (the 1823 building was formerly home of the Royal Scottish Automobile Club). Click here to check the latest prices and availability . 

Find out more: Read The Best Vegan Restaurants in Glasgow by Justin Plus Lauren .

16. Seattle, Washington, USA

Not just a rainy city with good coffee, Seattle is also incredibly vegan-friendly.

While Portland’s spot probably didn’t surprise anyone, Seattle coming out ahead of Los Angeles and New York (which didn’t even make the top 25) might come as a surprise.

However, relative to population, Seattle has a lot of vegan restaurants!

From classic diner food veganized at Wayward Cafe to the Instagram-ready Plum Bistro (and their most famous dish, spicy cajun mac and cheese), Seattle has vegan spots to suit everyone.

Find out more: the Seattle Vegan site is full of information on vegan friendly restaurants, events and more.

16. Las Vegas, Nevada, USA

Sin City mad it first appearance on this list in 2020, and continues on the list in 2023. Vive, Las Vegas Vegan? You bet!

Ronald’s Donuts is a donut place that has had vegan options for many years, including classics like glazed vegan doughnuts and apple fritters.

Pancho’s Vegan Tacos , as you may have guessed, is a vegan taco place with three locations (two in Vegas and one in Henderson). As well as tacos, they have enchiladas, burritos and more, with lots of vegan meat/protein choices (including mushroom, jackfruit and cactus if, like me, you’re not a fan of vegan meats).

Find out more: Check out A Crave-Worthy Guide to the Best Vegan Food in Las Vegas by Rabbit & Wolves .

14. Paris, France

4.3 vegan restaurants per 100,000 residents.

France might not have a reputation as one of the most vegan friendly countries in the world, but the French capital is changing.

I remember when I first went to Paris as a vegan circa 2011 it was tricky finding plant-based fare, but in the last 5 years that’s changed dramatically.

From veggie burgers at Hank’s to healthy vegan fare at Wild & The Moon , Paris is becoming more plant-based.

For a treat, brunch at Le Potager de Charlotte , where you can get a multi-course brunch menus with specialties such as a chickpea and rice pancake with cashew cream, ‘hard boiled egg’ style avocado and pancakes with chocolate hazelnut spread!

If you love French pastries, then you MUST visit VG Patisserie , an all vegan traditional French pastry shop (they also have gluten free options).

The 9th arrondissement has even been nicknamed Paris’s Veggietown because of the concentration of vegetarian and vegan restaurants here.

Find out more: See my full vegan guide to Paris here .

13. Vancouver, BC, Canada

4.5 vegan restaurants per 100,000 residents.

Vancouver topped the list of Canadian cities, beating out Toronto in terms of vegan restaurants per capita. There are plenty of plant-based options in Vancouver to choose from.

Head to Meet on Main for vegan comfort food like burgers, fries and poutine. For a more upscale meal, Acorn vegetarian restaurant is one of the go-to places in Vancouver for fancier vegan meals, serving seasonal food using produce from local farms.

Find out more: Check out The Ultimate List of Vegan Restaurants in Vancouver on The Sunrise Dreamers.

12. Manchester, UK

Manchester beat out London for its spot in the top 25 and made it to the top 10 for the first time this year.

For Indian street food head to Bundobust or to The Allotment for vegan, seasonal fine dining (including a 7 or 10 course taster option).

Find out more: Check out The Best Vegan Restaurants in Manchester by Mostly Amelie

11. Bristol, UK

4.7 vegan restaurants per 100,000 residents.

Bristol has long been known in the UK for its vegan scene, so it’s not surprising it’s the one of the best cities for vegans in the UK. It was even named vegan capital of the world for 3 years running ! 

Cafe Kino is a well-known vegan cafe and workers cooperative serving up full English breakfasts and more.

Or, for something a bit different, head to fully vegan Persian restaurant Koocha Mezze Bar to try gaymeh (a tomato-based lentil and aubergine stew), Persian style potatoes or a traditional Persian salad with tomatoes, cucumber, onion and pomegranate.

Find out more: Check out A Guide to Incredible Vegan Food in Bristol on You Me Under the Palm Tree .

10. Salt Lake City, Utah, USA

5.0 vegan restaurants per 100,000 residents.

Salt Lake City surprised me (and many people) when it debuted on this list a couple of years ago. But this mid-sized city is increasingly vegan friendly — and it might surprise you to know it has more vegan restaurants per capita than NYC or LA!

Head to Vertical Diner for vegan apple-stuffed French toast, find vegan Vietnamese at All Chay or a vegan croissant at Passion Flour Patisserie . You won’t be hungry here!

Find out more: Check out the Ultimate Vegan Guide to Salt Lake City by Alternative Travelers.

9. Tel Aviv, Israel

6.6 vegan restaurants per 100,000 residents.

Note: For obvious reasons, I do not recommend travel to Tel Aviv at present. Tel Aviv remains on the list this year as it still has a high number of vegan restaurants per capita.

8. Lisbon, Portugal

6.9 vegan restaurants per 100,000 residents.

The sunny capital of Portugal, like many cities, has become much more vegan-friendly in the last few years, with many vegan restaurants opening.

You can even enjoy vegan pasteis de nata (a famous egg custard tart)  Princesa do Castelo  while wandering the streets admiring Lisbon’s colourful architecture.

Find out more: Vegan Lisbon Guide on Vegan Haven Travel

7. Amsterdam, Netherlands

7.6 vegan restaurants per 100,000 residents.

In December 2018, I went to Amsterdam for a friend’s wedding and stayed for a week to explore the vegan scene. I was absolutely bowled over by the food I ate there.

Not only was it really easy to find vegan restaurants (I seemed to keep stumbling upon them as I explored the canals), but the attention to detail, sourcing of quality produce and careful thought about balancing flavours and textures produced some of the best food I had all year. 

Amsterdam’s vegan scene has grown impressively since pre-pandemic. At the beginning of 2020, it was home to 40 vegan restaurants, and now boasts more than 70!

Have the fried tempeh and avocado sushi at Caribbean-Japanese fusion restaurant TerraZen or a bowl of the house ramen at the most unique restaurant I’ve seen in awhile, the all vegan ramen restaurant Men Impossible .  

Where to stay:  De Bedstee Hotel is a vegetarian boutique capsule hotel. Like capsule hotels, it makes use of limited space to provide well-designed and small budget sleeping areas; however De Bedstee does it in vintage Dutch style (featuring old-style Dutch beds ).

All food served onsite, including breakfast, is organic and vegetarian, with vegan options. Click here to check the latest prices and availability .

Find out more: my vegan Amsterdam guide covers everything you’ll need to know!

7. Brighton, UK

Brighton has long ranked on almost every list of the most vegan-friendly cities in the UK, and with good reason!

Brighton has a ton of vegan options — from 100% vegan eateries to pubs serving vegan fish and chips, you can a vegan dish almost anywhere in Brighton these days. Go for a vegan Sunday roast or a full English at Green Kitchen.

If you’re in the mood for pizza, Purezza is a 100% vegan pizzeria; head to vegan-friendly Boho Gelato for dessert — they have some of the best vegan ice cream in town!

Find out more: Check out my Vegan Brighton Guide .

7. Atlanta, Georgia, USA

Atlanta might not usually spring to mind when thinking of vegan travel destinations in the US, but the city ranks as one of the most vegan friendly in the US by vegan restaurants per capita.

Whether you’re craving a vegan Chinese meal (head to Harmony Vegetarian ), or a BBQ seitan sandwich (at Cafe Sunflower ), Atlanta delivers.

Find out more: Check out The Best Vegetarian & Vegan Restaurants in Altanta by World of Vegan .

4. Portland, Oregon, USA

8.1 vegan restaurants per 100,000 residents.

One of the best cities to be vegan in North America, Portland’s well-deserved and long-standing reputation as a vegan heaven continues in this city, where nearly every eatery offers plant-based options.

Portland is definitely one of the best cities for vegans in the US, if not the best, and has the highest vegan restaurants per capita in the US ranking in number 1 in the US on this list.

Portland even boasts a vegan mini-mall! There, you’ll find a vegan clothing store, food shop, bakery and tattoo parlour. 

If you’re after vegan fine dining, don’t miss upscale vegan restaurant Blossoming Lotus , where you can dine on almond ricotta bruschetta and roasted delicate squash tacos.

Find out more: Don’t miss the Vegan Portland Mega Guide on Veggie Visa .

3. Chiang Mai, Thailand

29.1  vegan restaurants per 100,000 residents.

Though it’s dropped down from its no 1 spot last year, Chiang Mai is still incredibly vegan-friendly and has a reputation as a haven for digital creatives and eco travellers.

As you might expect for the second most vegan friendly city in the world, Chiang Mai doesn’t just have a lot of vegan restaurants, but also the annual Vegetarian Festival.

Take a vegan cooking class at Mai Kaidee , enjoy a fermented mushroom sausage at Pun Pun or visit the city during the annual Vegetarian Festival for widely available vegan food .

To find out all you need to know during your stay in one of the best cities for vegan food, Chiang Mai, check out Dee’s site Veggie in Chiang Mai — Dee lives in Chiang Mai and updates her site regularly as a resource for vegans in Chiang Mai and Thailand.

Where to stay: Green Tiger Guesthouse , a vegetarian hotel in the Old City attached to a vegan restaurant, Reform Kafe.

Find out more: Chiang Mai Vegan Travel Guide on Vegan Friendly Travel .

2. Ubud, Bali, Indonesia

30.7 vegan restaurants per 100,000 residents.

As a hub for tourists and digital nomads, Ubud is very vegan-friendly. Since it’s in the tropical paradise of Bali, you can of course find tropical fruit galore, as well as a variety of vegan-friendly restaurants.

Try a vegan naamlette (vegan omelette) at Sage , a vegan crepe at Earth Cafe and Market or design your own smoothie bowl at Alchemy .

Where to stay: BeingSattvaa vegetarian retreat , an all vegetarian and vegan resort in Ubud

Find out more: 33 Best Vegetarian & Vegan Restaurants in Ubud by Neverending Voyage .

1. Phuket, Thailand

41.6 vegan restaurants per 100,000 residents.

Picture a tropical paradise with clear blue waters and white sand beaches surrounded by mountainous cliffsides jutting into the water.

You might just be picturing Phuket, pictures of which have become screensavers around the world.

A mountainous island, Phuket has many of Thailand’s most popular beaches and in additional to the tropical fruits you might imagine eating on the beach, its capital Phuket City is also home to many vegan restaurants.

Phuket has climbed up from its third place spot last year to take the top spot this year, with the most vegan restaurants per capita on the globe. At the beginning of 2020, pre-pandemic, it was home to 12 vegan restaurants…that number has now more than doubled and stands at 30! 

Like Chiang Mai (see above) it also hosts the annual Vegetarian Festival. At Phuket’s Vegetarian Festival , you’ll find plenty of vegan food and, if you can stomach it, see various acts of self-mutilation and piercing, done in worship.

Street food stalls spring up selling vegan food all around the city. If you’re not visiting during the Vegetarian Festival, try a vegan Thai buffet such as Hesan Vegetarian or Mae Orathai .

Find out more: Vegan Food Guide to Phuket by the Sunrise Dreamers.

More of my personal favourite cities for vegans

While some of my favourites, like Taipei and Amsterdam, made the cut, a few of my favourite vegan friendly cities didn’t make the list, but I think they deserve a mention as they’re some of the best places to travel as a vegan. 

I’ve lived in London on and off since 2008 and I believe it’s one of the best vegan cities in the world. When I first moved to London, I ate in every single vegan restaurant and most of the vegetarian ones; now that would be nearly impossible. It’s the city with most vegan restaurants in the world at nearly 200 fully vegan restaurants!

It didn’t make the list because relative to population size, the list of vegan restaurants isn’t that high. The other aspect (more on this below) is that the list does not and cannot take into account restaurants with vegan options, but London boasts many of those.

In fact, I’d venture to say you can eat vegan in most restaurants in the capital now.

Many have vegan options marked on the menu, or separate vegan menus, and walking around there are always lots of signs advertising new vegan ranges. Supermarkets have vegan ranges, and vegan symbols marking vegan products and in 2019 nearly one in four new products launched that year were vegan .

Veganuary was started in the UK and keeps growing every year, with many people going vegan and lots of brands launching new vegan products that month.

You definitely won’t have trouble finding vegan food in London. London also has vegan beauty salons, supermarkets and the Hilton Bankside even has a vegan suite !

I put together this guide to vegan cafes in London because dining out in London can be pricey – and at some of the cafes in the list you can get a vegan lunch for under £10.

Moving beyond its Soviet history, Warsaw has embraced the plant-based movement, with more than 50 completely vegan restaurants. I’ve heard from many vegans that it’s one of the best places to live for vegans.

Grab a burger at  Krowarzywa , described by a reviewer on Tripadvisor as the “best burger ever” and on Youtube as “the best vegan burgers in Europe”, or feast on a vegan version of traditional Polish and Eastern European food like plant based pierogis, blini and borscht at  Vege Bistro .

Treat yourself to a bottle of red after dinner at the all-vegan and organic wine shop  Solvino Bio .

Where to stay:  Sound Garden , a hotel near the airport, is eco-friendly and offers competitive rates. Water at the hotel is from sustainable sources including recycled rainwater and the hotel uses energy-saving technology too.

All rooms have free wifi, a flatscreen TV and a bathroom with underfloor heating.  Click here to check the latest prices and availability .

Find out more: Check out  the Foodie’s Guide to Eating Vegan in Warsaw on Vegans with Appetites .

A note on methodology

In 2018, rather than updating the running list of the most vegan friendly places I’ve had for the last couple of years (and published in my book – click here to find out more about my vegan travel guide ), I wanted to do something a little bit more numbers-based/technical to figure out the most vegan cities worldwide, by the numbers.

You can find lists of the most vegan friendly cities in Europe and the world based on the number of vegan restaurants in the city.

However, I didn’t want to determine the best vegan cities solely based on the number of vegan restaurants alone. A vegan city or vegan town should have a lot of vegan restaurants relative to their population size.

How I measured vegan friendliness

So, I decided to use a slightly different metric. I calculated the vegan restaurants per capita (that is, the number of 100% vegan restaurants listed on Happycow per 100,000 people in the city).

This is, of course, not a foolproof method of measuring a city’s vegan credentials.

Some cities might have a huge number of vegetarian, but not vegan, restaurants. Or they might have a lot of restaurants with vegan options (like London and Berlin), or they may have a naturally vegan-friendly local cuisine.

Figuring out which restaurants are in a city is not as easy as it sounds, as some cities are very large – do you count the city centre, the metropolitan area, area reachable by the city’s public transport?

Even measuring the population of a city is complicated! Wikipedia usually lists the population of the city, urban area and metropolitan area. Where possible I used the city population.

I couldn’t measure all the cities in the world, either, so I had to rely on several lists of vegan friendly cities, a list of the cities with the most vegan restaurants, and lists of the biggest and most visited cities in the world, to calculate this. However, I think this is a good starting point.

Looking at vegan restaurants per capita should give an idea of how vegan friendly a city feels. For example, a big city might have more vegan restaurants listed in total than a smaller city, but those restaurants could be really spread out, and taken per capita their number might be much lower than a smaller city.

A smaller city, on the other hand, that has fewer vegan restaurants in total could have a high number per capita, which likely means more residents are vegan or there’s more demand for vegan food, making the smaller city feel more vegan friendly.

This list shows you the cities that have a high proportion of vegan restaurants in comparison to population, which also means you’re likely to see a lot of vegan restaurants just walking around. 

Find out more about each city

For each city, I’ve linked to the best vegan guide I could find online, and where possible a recommended vegan-friendly or eco-friendly place to stay.

You might notice some cities you’d expect to find on a veg city list — such as NYC, San Diego and LA — missing. That’s because in comparison to the population, their vegan restaurants per capita are actually lower than the other cities on this list.

Yes, New York City has a lot of vegan restaurants, but also a big population to match. And in comparison to its population, it just doesn’t match up to the vegan restaurants per capita in Portland or Vancouver.

London, which is currently the city with the most vegan restaurants in the world, didn’t make it onto the list, surprisingly (it was 40th).

That’s because this list is per capita, and London’s vegan restaurant scene, while extensive (I know since I’ve lived in London on and off since 2008), hasn’t kept up with the huge population.

Of course, as mentioned before, this list only takes into account vegan restaurants, and if it included restaurants with vegan options London might rank much higher (since pretty much every chain and lots of independent restaurants in London now have vegan options).

Some might argue London or NYC is the best place for vegans to live because so many restaurants have vegan options, but the number of restaurants with vegan options is impossible to measure since there’s no listing of every single restaurant with a vegan option (and would it be best to count any restaurant with a single vegan option on the menu, or only include those with 10% or more of the menu as vegan, for example?).

A growing list

The first year I made this list, back in 2015, I only chose 10 vegan friendly cities.

After several years of huge growth in the number of vegans and vegan restaurants around the world, I couldn’t narrow it down to just 10 cities.

The world is becoming more vegan-friendly than ever, and these 25 cities, some of them unexpected, prove it. 

The list has shifted this year, with some cities dropping out and four new cities making the list (some for the first time!).

Which cities are you surprised to see on the list? And which cities do you think should’ve made the cut that didn’t? Personally, London surprised me most by not making the list.

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Planning a trip but your destination isn’t on this? Lots of cities like Athens and Barcelona didn’t make the list but are still very vegan-friendly.

I’ve got guides to a growing list of cities (see the vegan travel section of my site).

Want to stay in a vegan hotel on your next trip? See my guide to the best vegan hotels worldwide , and my list of vegan hotels in the UK .

Interested in a relaxing vegan trip? Click here to see my list of vegan all inclusive resorts.

I also have a list of vegan retreats and vegan tours .

Find more vegan travel tips , and learn all about travel as a vegan .

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Caitlin Galer-Unti

36 thoughts on “most vegan friendly cities in the world in 2024”.

Thanks for referencing my blog twice here, Caitlin! This is a really nice list, with some surprises I wouldn’t have thought of, like Bangalore and Sao Paulo for example – who knew?! So exciting that more and more places around the world are embracing veganism!

I know, it’s exciting to see it grow! :D I love the way you organise your guides — I find them so easy-to-read and informative :)

I’m happy to confirm that veganism is booming in Sāo Paulo, which is where I live.

I still can’t believe Glasgow is on there ;)

Also I want to try those Polish burgers.

Haha I know…. It’s changed ;)

Yeah, they sound so good!

Seriously Boston, step it up please!!!

Everything in many many ciites seems to be getting more and more vegan-friendly quickly, so next year maybe! :)

How long do you think it will be before you’ll have to increase it to 50 vegan-friendly cities?? It’s so exciting to see how the vegan movement is booming around the world!

At the rate things are going maybe by next year (I hope so!)! So exciting to see so many vegan places opening and people embracing veganism around the world! :)

Surprised Edinburgh does not feature here! How current is this list?

Thank you for sharing our post about Warsaw! There were definitely some surprises on this list that we’ll be excited to check out. It is always great to see how veganism is spreading around the world!

You’re welcome — after reading your post I can’t wait until next time I’m in Warsaw!! :D It really is, I’m thrilled how the list keeps growing every year! :)

Thanks for curating this list of vegan-friendly cities.

Any advice on Greece ? We are planning a family holiday next year but it is never reviewed anywhere. Barely anything on the happy cow app.

Many thanks

Thanks for creating this list. I suggest changing the photo for Portland, Oregon. Voodoo Doughnut has vegan doughnuts, but most of their doughnuts are not.

Missed the US Virgin Islands! We only have ~100K people so super easy to calculate. Delicious ital and vegan food.

Surprised to not see Melbourne on here, Sydney is catching up too. So wonderful that there are too many vegan friendly cities to fit on the list though!

I am surprised that not a lot of Asian cities head the list considering the fact that for a long time, people in Asia stuck to eating a vegan diet. I guess the Western style of food eliminates many of those cities from your list.

Thanks Caitlin. Interesting, that London barely got there :-). But glad to see many entries which are amazing. And Netherlands, for reasons close to heart. Amazing list.

Great guide but you forgot Ljubljana!

Population of just over a quarter of a million, and five dedicated vegan eateries in the city, with loads more offering vegan options! Slovenia’s entire population hovers around the 2 million mark, and practically everywhere you go, you can get a vegan meal. I lived there for a couple of years, and was in my element! Local supermarkets even stock their own ranges of vegan convenience food, plus they import a lot from Germany and Italy.

It’s a similar story in Croatia, and Serbia is getting there too. Even when in Transylvania, I had no problem finding vegan food in the cities! When I returned to Britain a year ago, after years of living around the world I discovered that despite all the progress it’s made during my absence, it’s still a long way behind much of mainland Europe, which is why I wasn’t at all surprised to see London so low on the list!

Lovely to see my friend, Dee’s Chiang Mai guide get a mention – I have many fond memories of us checking out all the local jay eateries!

Hi, I just noticed that Let it Be in Berlin has since closed. You’ll need to update your review.

I think there’s a lot more vegan and vegan-friendly restaurants in Warsaw :) Just check out this map: https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/0/viewer?mid=1uB61KqfdKz-DAoY–NQ_TAMyIEI

You have incorrect stats for Berlin–the latest on Happy Cow is 79 all-vegan restaurants, not 26. Thus, Berlin is closer to 6 vegan restaurants per 100 population, which would make it around #5. There are a lot of cities missing–even where I live, San Diego has (including La Jolla, which is listed separately but within city limits) has 22 all-vegan restaurants (so around 1.5 or 1.6 per 100000 population which would put it just below San Francisco). (One unfortunate thing with Happy Cow is that sometimes they split up cities–especially NYC and Melbourne.) I might check others as time permits.

This is wonderful, and fascinating, thanks so much! But I was wondering where you got that 30k resident figure from for Ubud? Wikipedia says 74k, and the 2010 census showed 69k.

Also, I just calculated Chiang Mai and got 28 per 100k. Maybe figures have updated since you did your research. If my numbers are correct that’s a new #1!

Hi Nicholas, You’re right… I just did the 2020 update and updated the figures. Chiang Mai is now number 1 in 2020! :)

This is a really great list! I’m surprised Berlin and Edinburgh aren’t on it. Berlin has been named the vegan capital of the world (although currently that’s Tel Aviv) and they’re one of the only ciites in the world with not just one but four chains of vegan supermarkets. Edinburgh is also huge. While they might not have as many dedicated vegan restaurants (they have a ton), you’ll be hard pressed to find a restaurant in town that doesn’t have vegan options.

I love both cities for vegan food — I was just in Edinburgh a couple months ago and agree it’s great for vegans! And of course, Berlin is a vegan capital with a ton of vegan places! They didn’t make it because of the numbers. If I was choosing cities based on vegan options in non-vegan restaurants it would be a different list, but I couldn’t work out how to find the numbers for that (there’s no complete list of such restaurants!). So I worked off the number of vegan restaurants by population. And while Berlin has a ton of fully vegan restaurants, based on the population of the city it’s not as high as the other cities that made it on the list. But it’s definitely massively vegan friendly — so are a bunch of other cities that didn’t make the list, like London and NYC! All great spots for vegans :)

You’ve missed Indian Cities. Almost 40 percent of Indian population is Vegetarian.

I am of Indian origin. Wikipedia last year claimed 20 percent of Indians are Vegan as per research poll making it the country with maximum Vegans, however this was perhaps controversial. Vegetarian restaurants can cater to Vegans but being vegetarian is not quite the same as dairy is as cruel as beef or leather and many people are vegetarian for religious traditions and not actually for the ethics, and need more education to go Vegan. I think all vegetarians and non veg folks should go Vegan as Vegan us suitable for everyone and both meats and dairy cam be substituted by Vegan versions of the same quite easily, the only difference is bloodshed and violence.

Thank you so much for this guide!!! When travel restrictions ease a little bit, you need to come to Taipei (Taiwan). We live here since last year and it has been incredible to discover vegan restaurants an options all over Taipei.

Hope you can come or maybe we can do some content together! :)

I love Taipei, and I’d be thrilled to visit again! I spent three weeks there in 2010 and would absolutely love to come back when travel restrictions ease a bit. It’s a great city and so much amazing vegan food! You’re lucky to live there. Enjoy all the great food and hope to see you there one day! :)

I love this list! I lived in Chiang Mai for 5 weeks and it was so great for vegans and vegetarians. I also took my sister who is vegan to Taiwan for her 40th birthday and we started off in Taipei which is fantastic for vegans. I was surprised to find vegan bakeries making pretty decent croissants and also my favourite restaurant Double Veggie which had so many options!

I now live in Istanbul and the vegan scene is growing here – there are already a number of delis, cafes and restaurants, which I love. This is definitely somewhere you should visit!

Thank you Sasha! I would love to visit Istanbul at some point – it looks like such a beautiful city and I’ve heard great things about it. So it’s great to hear the vegan scene is growing there! Taipei and Chiang Mai are both so great for veggies/vegans – your sister is lucky to have had such a great 40th birthday present! :D

Strange–I have lived in Taipei, Chiang Mai, and Vancouver and I would never have guessed that Chiang Mai beat out the other two in vegan restaurants per capita, much less that it could be #1 in the world! In Taipei it seems like there’s at least one vegan restaurant on every block. On a 10-minute walk you’ll see 3 or 4 vegan restaurants, everything from cheap noodle shops and street food to fine dining. But in Chiang Mai I felt like it took a lot of extra effort to find the vegan restaurants, and you may walk 20-30 minutes to get there without passing any other vegan restaurants on the way. Maybe it’s a sprawl thing? Taipei is so tiny and condensed.

I agree, it must have to do with sprawl. Taipei definitely felt like the most vegan-friendly city I’ve ever been to (and I absolutely adored it) – it was unbelievable how easy it was to find vegan restaurants just walking around. It definitely feels like it has more vegan restaurants than, say, Brighton, England, which I visited many, many times when I lived in London. But then Brighton is much less compact than Taipei, which is SO dense!

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HOME > Features | Travel | Vegan Lifestyle |

14 of the best vegan travel destinations: vegan holidays in the UK, Europe and beyond

Author: elena amoroso, looking for inspiration for your next holiday explore your options and discover the best vegan travel destinations around the world..

Read Time:   |  22nd June 2022

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Looking for some inspiration for your next holiday? You've come to the right place. Explore your options and discover our top vegan travel destinations.

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Whether you’re looking for a luxurious city break or are keen to feel the sand beneath your toes, we have a whole lineup of exciting vegan travel destinations to explore.

We understand the importance of being able to eat well overseas, so have looked into these holiday destinations with vegan food in mind. Nothing’s worse than getting all excited for a trip to then arrive and discover the only vegan options are fries or a side salad. No one needs that.

Luckily for us, HappyCow exists and can help us plan for a trip anywhere in the world. HappyCow is an app that can register and review anywhere that you can eat vegan food, whether it’s a place that can cater to vegans or fully plant-based venues.

Vegan travel has never been easier and as the popularity of veganism expands around the world, our vegan options only keep growing.

This list is compiled of vegan travel holiday locations that we’ve recommended for a variety of reasons. Some have a high vegan population, some have claimed the best vegan country titles, and some are home to some of the most reputable vegan venues.

But they are all guaranteed to give you some wanderlust to inspire your next vegan travel adventure!

Get your passports and appetites ready as we take you on a trip around the world’s best vegan travel destinations.

1. Ubud, Bali, Indonesia

Bali has been a growing destination for vegan travellers with many businesses popping up to entice tourists. Most towns have a large selection of vegan-friendly venues, with tempeh being a staple food in Indonesian cuisine.

If you’re a beach person, this destination might be the one for you as Bali is home to some of the most beautiful beaches where you can surf, swim and snorkel.

We’ve honed in on Ubud as it’s the spiritual and cultural centre of Bali. Since its feature in the film Eat, Pray, Love , this location has soared in popularity.

As for vegan food, according to Statista , Ubud is the second-highest city in the world with the most vegan options worldwide. So there are plenty of places to treat your tastebuds in this lively city!

However, the whole of Bali is incredibly accommodating to those on a vegan diet. From Canggu to Uluwatu, there are plenty of vegan options to choose from.

Indonesia itself is located in Southeast Asia, not far from the equator, so expect the weather to be hot!

Currency used: Indonesian Rupiah

You can’t visit without: Taking a yoga lesson.

Best places to eat in Ubud:

• Bella by Sage offers delicious vegan and Italian dishes.
• Zest Ubud is an organic restaurant that sources local produce.
• Sage steps up vegan cuisine by serving vibrant globally inspired dishes.
• The Seeds of Life is a 100% raw vegan cafe that also serves up Taoist tonics.
• Sayuri Healing Food offers a wide raw menu and also teaches raw cooking classes.

A gentle shoreline in sunny Bali make this an idyllic vegan travel destination. Image via Getty by Simon Long.

2. Berlin, Germany

Berlin is another city that has become famed in the vegan community for its ample vegan venues blending with its vibrant city culture, making this a trip to remember.

Germany itself has a very high vegan population. A study in 2020 revealed that Germany had the highest vegan population in all of Europe, and has continued to grow to 7.5 million vegans residing there today.

In fact, Berlin is so vegan-friendly that it is home to the first vegan food chain and the first vegan mall in Germany.

With over 600 vegan and vegetarian cafes, restaurants, and shops listed on Happy Cow, you will be spoilt for choice. To make sure you don’t miss all the vegan treats on offer in Berlin, take a walking tour around the city and pick up treats on the go.

Currency used: Euro

You can’t visit without: Visiting the Berlin wall.

Best places to eat in Berlin:

• ATAYA is a great breakfast and brunch venue that is also dog-friendly.
• Brammibal’s Donuts is a huge hit in Berlin with several locations serving up freshly made vegan doughnuts.
• Plant Base is a vegan cafe and bookshop that strives to deliver tasty, sustainably sourced dishes.
• Vedang plant burger is the place to go to indulge in some vegan fast food.
• Feel Seoul Food delivers traditional Korean dishes that are all vegan. Expect soups, dumplings, pancakes, and even sushi.

Berlin is always a hit for vegan travellers. Image via Getty by Sylvain Sonnet.

3. Melbourne, Australia

Melbourne is a vibrant city filled with vegan cafes and restaurants and a thriving activist scene. In fact, Melbourne was recently voted 3rd most vegan city in the world, so its reputation certainly hasn’t gone unnoticed.

Melbourne offers a great mix of city life with beach culture, with St Kilda beach a mere tram ride away which is in close proximity to all the vegan-friendly venues on Acland Street.

If you fancy a splash on a quieter beach there are many more along the coast. Head further south and you’ll discover Brighton beach (complete with the same iconic beach shacks and the UK seaside town of Brighton) and the peaceful Half Moon Bay.

And this is just one part of the city! There are plenty of vegan venues scattered all throughout Melbourne and the CBD, and lots of vegan food events are held throughout the year.

Currency used: Australian dollars

You can’t visit without: Taking a trip to Luna Park.

Best places to eat in Melbourne:

• Union Kiosk is a vegan coffee shop that serves up sweets and waffles.
• Lord of the Fries has multiple venues open long into the night so you can get your vegan junk food fix.
• Madame K’s Vegetarian is actually a fully vegan venue offering plenty of delicious Asian-infused dishes.
• Funghi E Tartufo means ‘mushroom and truffle’, which is the name of the signature dish at this plant-based Italian venue.
• Vegie Tribe is a fully vegan buffet well known for its wide variety of dishes and all-you-can-eat options.

The well-known Flinders St Station in the heart of Melbourne's CBD, home to two vegan Lord of the Fries venues. Image via Getty by Scott E Barbour.

4. Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona is another city that boasts a beautiful blend of bustling city life with laid-back beach culture. A walk along the promenade is full of happy tourists and locals soaking up the sunshine before taking a dip in the sea.

Grab a kayak and hit the waters, but make sure you bring a snorkel so you can take a dip and swim in and around the coastal caves.

Unlike other European destinations, access to the beach is free and the beaches are cleaned regularly to maintain the natural beauty of its shores.

If you wish to immerse yourself in the artistic culture, Barcelona has lots of interesting museums, galleries, and cathedrals to explore.

But for those who are hungry, you’ll be glad to hear that Barcelona is one of the top vegan destinations in Spain since the local city government previously declared it to be a ‘friend of vegan and vegetarian culture’, which has certainly been put into effect.

You can’t visit without: Experiencing the nightlife in Las Ramblas.

Best places to eat in Barcelona:

• CactusCat Bar is the place to visit to enjoy some Catalonian dishes, with all-day brunch, vegan lunch , and dinner.
• Eqvilibrivm Cafe is a popular venue serving breakfast and brunch foods.
• Monchito offers a vibrant menu of authentic vegan Mexican dishes.
• Chez Kessler provides a varied menu with vegan fish dishes and charcuterie boards.
• Blu Bar is praised for its tasty menu including protein bowls and pizzas.

The vibrant city streets of Barcelona, one of the top vegan foodie destinations in Spain. Image via Getty by Alexander Sparati.

5. Chiang Mai, Thailand

With a skyline dotted with beautiful ancient temples and striking mountains, Chiang Mai feels like paradise on Earth.

There are plenty of bustling markets with street food vendors to discover while exploring. Making friends with the locals should definitely be on the agenda too to fully immerse yourself in Thailand’s rich culture. Why not take part in group treks and vegan cooking classes while you’re there to try your hand at making the local cuisine.

Since Thailand is traditionally a Buddhist country, a lot of the food has been based around plants, meaning vegan options are very easy to find today.

It’s not surprising to discover that, according to Statista, Chiang Mai was the number 1 city with the most vegan options available worldwide, making it easily a top vegan travel destination.

Currency used: Thai Baht

You can’t visit without: Visiting an ethical elephant sanctuary.

Best places to eat in Chiang Mai:

• Reform Kafe serves a tasty blend of Western and Thai dishes.
• Goodsouls Kitchen is the spot to go to for all-day breakfast and many more filling meals.
• Asa Vegan Kitchen and Studio has a range of fresh and healthy vegan dishes such as summer rolls and chickpea curry.
• Mr Green is a Thai restaurant that has plentiful vegan portions and refreshing drinks on the menu.
• Rad Rabbit has all the vegan Italian food you could want, with very highly-rated vegan pizzas.

The rolling hills of Chiang Mai. Image via Getty by Phutthiseth Thongtae.

6. Turin, Italy

When people think of Italy the first destinations in mind are probably Rome , Florence, and Milan. However, Turin is a vegan haven for those who wish to really experience the Italian vegan food scene!

As an official UNESCO site, Turin is home to 22 palaces and villas where you can take a leisurely tour.

There are many museums to keep you entertained, ranging from historical cars to the Egyptians.

And for those who are sports fans, Turin is also home to the Juventus stadium.

The relationship between Turin and veganism has been intertwined for some time, as the city had a pro-veggie mayor and 30 meat-free restaurants in 2016.

Since then it has only continued to grow and was recently ranked in the top 20 cities for vegan-friendly restaurants, not just within Europe, but worldwide.

You can’t visit without: Checking out the National Museum of Cinema.

Best places to eat in Turin:

• L’Orto Cafe is a vegan coffee shop that has a large selection of sweet and savoury treats, and large dishes for a full meal.
• Ratatouille is a popular vegan bakery that has a range of vegan desserts, as well as whole goods and deli items.
• Mezzaluna serves up rich courses of fresh dishes cooked to order, including housemade pasta and organic wines and juices.
• Antonio Chiodi Latini is a true fine-dining experience providing small but beautifully designed dishes.
• Soul Kitchen – Vegan and Raw Food offer a multiple-course dining experience with fine raw vegan produce.

The picturesque view of Turin, Italy's vegan city. Image via Getty by Boccalupo Photography.

7. Playa del Carmen, Mexico

Playa Del Carmen is home to the world’s first all-inclusive plant-based resort, Palmaia , House of AïA.

But that’s not to say Playa del Carmen stops there when it comes to catering for vegans. With vegan and vegetarian venues dotted around the city, there are many venues to dine in and enjoy.

In terms of entertainment, there are plenty of activities to excite you about a trip to this part of Mexico. There are plenty of interactive museums and galleries, not to mention ancient Mayan ruins to explore.

Its rolling beaches with white sands are the perfect spot to relax during the day or take a trip to explore some of the caverns and caves hidden within the landscapes. Sea turtles are frequently seen in the waters so make sure to go snorkelling.

Currency used: Mexican peso

You can’t visit without:  Exploring the ancient ruins of Tulum and Coba.

Best places to eat in Playa del Carmen:

• Plantivoros serves up tasty dishes from two different menus that celebrate authentic Mexican flavours.
• Falafel Nessya specialises in hearty falafel dishes, both in pitas and plates.
• Comet 984 captures the essence of a 1950’s diner, serving all sorts of vegan fast food.
• The Pitted Date is a vegan cafe and bakery, with fresh coconut and almond milk made daily, and lots of breakfast food options.
• Corazon Contento PDC is the place to visit if you want hearty Mexican food.

The sandy shores of Playa del Carmen is a dream for beach-lovers. Image via Getty by Pola Damonte.

8. Paris, France

France had a reputation of being one of the more difficult countries to cater for vegans as traditionally its dishes are heavy on meat and dairy.

However, the city of lights, Paris , has really stepped up the vegan game in recent years with a big increase of vegan venues, and many vegetarian venues going fully vegan according to a report from Happy Cow.

Paris has become a vegan travel destination as it now hosts many vegan and vegetarian venues, serving up delightful sweet treats and pastries to indulge yourself with!

Grab something on the go as you stroll around the city to explore the many art museums, historical cathedrals, and cultural landmarks Paris has to offer.

You can’t visit without: Exploring the Parisian catacombs.

Best places to eat in Paris:

• Le Potager de Charlotte serves vibrant and healthy vegan dishes, specialising in European dishes.
• Land & Monkeys is the place to visit if you need a delicious cake or pastry. With multiple venues around the city, you can’t miss it.
• Hank Vegan Burger is a must-visit if you need to get your vegan junk food fix.
• VG Pâtisserie has been providing delicious pastries and desserts since 2017.
• Les Tontons Veg offers hearty vegan burgers, sandwiches, and falafels.

The romantic Parisian skyline is home to lots of vegan travel highlights. Image via Getty by Iupengyu.

9. New York City, USA

Known as the city that never sleeps, New York boasts a population of over 8 million people and an impressive selection of vegan-friendly places to eat! There are over 3,700 venues listed on Happy Cow that cover the entire city, from the Bronx to Staten Island.

And of course, it is the birthplace of one of the most popular desserts, the Vegan New York Cheesecake . Luckily for us, it’s a simple dessert to make vegan and there are plenty of cafes, restaurants, and eateries that can provide a delicious slice!

Aside from the culinary attractions, New York is home to some of the most visited galleries, theatres, and attractions. Strolling through Central Park, catching a show on Broadway, discovering the delights of Little Italy – there is plenty to keep yourself busy with during a stay!

And if you’re curious to see just how vegan-friendly New York is, you’ll be happy to know that in a previous listing of the Top 10 Vegan Friendly Cities according to Happy Cow, New York took 2nd place.

Currency used: American dollar

You can’t visit without: Taking a selfie with the Statue of Liberty.

Best places to eat in New York:

• Bodhi Kosher Vegetarian Restaurant for delicious Chinese food.
• Orchard Grocer is the place to go for a classic vegan New York bagel.
• Beyond Sushi is a popular chain with 5 locations offering tasty vegan sushi.
• PLANTA Queen is a plant-based restaurant and bar that has an extensive food menu, as well as a range of cocktails.
• Jajaja Mexicana serves modern Latin and Mexican food – perfect if you love tangy and spicy dishes.

An aerial view of Central Park surrounded by the many skyscrapers of New York, home to lots of delicious vegan food. Image via Getty by Howard Kingsnorth.

10. Lisbon, Portugal

Known for being a country with one of the largest consumption of seafood, you might be surprised to learn that Portugal has a rapidly growing vegan community.

Apparently, Portugal was the first country in the world that made it mandatory for schools, hospitals, and prisons to provide vegan options!

Lisbon is at the heart of it all and is often leading the way with vegan progression, which in turn influences the rest of the country.

With over 280 vegan and vegetarian-friendly restaurants, there are plenty of things to eat as you absorb the vibrant creative culture of Lisbon. Plus being a city filled with art and architecture, there’s always something to look at.

You can’t visit without: Taking a walking tour and watching the sunset!

Best places to eat in Lisbon:

• Veganeats Caffe is a small vegan coffee shop and bakery that has lots of European and Portuguese foods to enjoy.
• Ao 26 – Vegan Food Project has a whole range of snacks and plates from sweet treats to savoury meals.
• Organi Chiado is a vegan restaurant that serves seasonal Portuguese cuisine.
• Kong – Food Made With Compassion is a cosy pet-friendly vegan venue that offers traditional vegan Portuguese food.
• Legumi Sushi Vegan provides unique vegan sushi rolls.

The sunset falling over the city of Lisbon. Image via Getty by Sylvain Sonnet.

11. Vancouver, Canada

Vancouver is a great destination for those who want a mix of discovering a new city and exploring the great outdoors. Surrounded by stunning views of mountains and coastlines, this trip will feel like a breath of fresh air.

It has frequently been rated highly as one of the most liveable cities in the world, and as a visitor, you can experience why. It is home to four national parks covering both land and water so that you can have the whole adventurer experience.

But if you’re more of a city person, Vancouver has plenty of cosmopolitan aspects to keep you interested, from its shopping quarters to bustling nightlife.

For vegan food, Vancouver has a lot to offer with many vegan-specific venues and lots of variations to enjoy. From vegan junk food to fine dining, there’s something for every palette.

In fact, Vancouver was ranked one of the top cities in the world for veganism and was the only Canadian city to rank so highly.

Currency used: Canadian dollar

You can’t visit without: Crossing the Capilano Suspension Bridge.

Best places to eat in Vancouver:

• MeeT has various locations around the city, offering hearty vegan comfort food.
• Virtuous Pie is a plant-based vegan pizza chain that serves a great slice, as well as vegan ice cream and gluten-free options.
• Vegan Cave is another great spot to grab a slice of tasty vegan pizza.
• Lotus Seed Vegan is a health-minded and spiritually conscious vegan restaurant with a whole range of globally-inspired dishes.
• Eternal Abundance is an organic market and vegan cafe offering daily breakfast, brunch, and lunch food.

The abundance of natural beauty in Vancouver make this a dream vegan travel destination. Image via Getty by LeonU.

12. San Jose, Costa Rica

If you love spotting animals in the wild, this may just be the country for you! Costa Rica is home to 5% of the world’s biodiversity with many native colourful species residing here.

San Jose itself has lots to do and see, with historical buildings, museums, and stunning natural wonders to admire. The city was founded in 1739 and remains the thriving hub as the capital of Costa Rica.

Eco-tourism has boomed in recent years, and has been a hotspot for vegan travel since there are many outdoor activities to get your adrenaline going! Grab a kayak and hit the waters, explore and climb around mysterious caves, grab a zip line and take an aerial tour-  the options are endless!

While you’re out adventuring, try and spot many of the countries’ native animals such as macaws, turtles, and sloths.

As for the vegan food scene, San Jose has kept up with the growing demand for vegan food and offers a wide range of cuisine to enjoy during a stay.

Currency used: Costa Rican colón

You can’t visit without: Dipping into the hot springs on the El Valle del Rio Orosi.

Best places to eat in San Jose:

• MIXT has a farm-to-table concept, serving up lots of fresh and healthy options. Build your own bowl or choose from a selection of sandwiches, wraps, and paninis.
• De Aca is a vegan cafe that can serve up a variety of dishes, baked goods, and a good cup of coffee.
• Gia Vegan Pastries is the place to go for sweet treats, baked goods, and pastries.
• Earthly Kitchen is an Italian restaurant with vegan pasta, vegan pizzas, and even vegan cheese sticks.
• Bosque Urbano is an all-vegan cafeteria that can provide sandwiches, pastries, and Costa Rican gourmet coffee.

A hidden oasis in San Jose is a vegan travel paradise. Image via Getty by Matteo Colombo.

13. Reykjavik, Iceland

Now for something completely different – a trip to the world’s northernmost capital city, Reykjavik .

Nature-lovers can explore and enjoy the scenic views of this varied landscape. Volcanoes, glaciers, and waterfalls are just some of the natural wonders that will keep your eyes entertained.

This destination is also ideal for those who love a bit of a party since Reykjavik has a buzzing nightlife scene and regularly hosts big musical events.

For vegan food, while it may not match the capacity of other cities just yet, new vegan restaurants are opening up regularly so there are plenty of tasty vegan dishes to enjoy in the meantime.

Currency used: Icelandic króna

You can’t visit without: Observing the dance of the Northern Lights.

Best places to eat in Reykjavik :

• Mama is right in the heart of Reykjavik, with a range of soups, casserole, and a cake of the week.
• Loving Hut is an Asian-inspired venue with lots of warm and spicy dishes to enjoy.
• Bókasamlagið is a fully vegan cafe that serves an array of hot drinks and sweet treats.

The mesmerising Northern Lights seen in Reykjavik are unforgettable. Image via Getty by Sascha Kilmer.

14. London, UK

Sometimes vegan travel destinations don’t have to be another world away.

A trip to the UK capital of London can offer a lot of historical and sightseeing fun for tourists, not to mention tons of vegan food!

Home to the Tower of London and Buckingham Palace, those who enjoy royal affairs can fully get their fix. For those who are more enthralled by other historical landmarks, there are plenty of stories hidden amongst the city streets.

As for vegan food, London claimed the title of the world’s most vegan-friendly city in 2019, and we can understand why! Home to numerous flagship vegan venues such as Temple of Seitan , Unity Diner , and Mildred’s , the vegan community has grown rapidly and certainly influenced other parts of the UK.

If you head to London at the right time, you can enjoy the sunny and vibrant parts of the city and many of its outdoor events that accompany good weather. From outdoor hot-tub cinemas to silent discos, there’s always something happening in the big smoke.

Currency used: Pound sterling

You can’t visit without: Taking a boat tour of the Thames.

Where to eat:

• What The Pitta is an all-vegan fast food junk food venue, serving up kebabs and Turkish pizza.
• Young Vegans create delicious and inventive vegan pies, which can also be delivered all over the UK.
• Vantra Vegan is an organic lounge bar providing steamed and raw vegan food. There is also a performance space.
• Thenga Cafe is a cosy cafe that specialises in delicious Indian dishes.
• Hibox provides healthy and filling bowls and wraps, inspired by Palestinian and Lebanese flavours.

The busy roads of London with double decker buses. Image via Getty by Scott E Barbour.

We hope that this has given you lots of inspiration to help you choose where to travel for your next vegan holiday destination! Now discover our top tips for vegan travellers !

Elena Amoroso

Elena is a Bristol-based photographer who loves trying out the latest vegan products and menus at Bristol's many vegan restaurants. When she's not hunting down the latest vegan eats, Elena loves catching the latest cinema releases, and travelling.

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16 Best Places to Travel as a Vegetarian (or Vegan)

Written by Becca

Updated on April 26th, 2024

Where are the best places to travel as a vegetarian or vegan? Discover the countries that are most friendly to plant-based diets for vegetarian travelers.

This article may contain affiliate links. We earn a small commissions when you purchase via those links — and it's free for you. It's only us (Becca & Dan) working on this website, so we value your support! Read our privacy policy and learn more about us .

Table of contents

• United States
• The Netherlands
• South Africa

In our travels around the world, it has always been nice to appreciate the countries that turn out to be the best for vegetarians.

Throughout our experiences on five continents, there’s definitely something to be said about being able to have an enjoyable vegetarian or vegan meal without stress or hesitation.

Whether you’ve been a vegetarian since you were a kid, or if you’ve recently adopted a vegetarian/vegan (or “flexitarian”) lifestyle, traveling as a vegetarian is more exciting and more liberating when it’s in a country with delicious plant-based food.

What are the best countries for vegetarian or vegan diets? Check out where we’ve enjoyed plant-based meals around the globe.

Mentions of “Vegetarian” and “Vegan” in this guide

In our list of the best countries for vegetarian and vegan travel , we will make a few notes pertaining to the following:

• We’ll use the term “vegetarian” to encompass diets that exclude red meat, non-fish seafood, game meats and poultry. “Vegetarian” will also refer to diets that include eggs, fish and dairy.
• “Vegan” will refer to foods that do not contain any animal products (no meat, eggs, fish, dairy, poultry or products that come from animals).

The Israeli cuisine is one of our favorites. It’s a mix of Middle Eastern, Mediterranean, European and Northern African flavors and treats that make our mouth water whenever we think of it.

Israel is big on meat, for sure, but in recent years, major cities like Tel Aviv and Jerusalem cater directly to vegetarians and vegans, and a wide assortment of restaurants are available for these diets.

One of the biggest highlights of eating as a vegetarian or vegan in Israel is the salads .

I don’t mean a salad made of spinach with some toppings mixed in, no, certainly not. Israeli cuisine means eating a meal with small bowls of everything from matbucha (a vegan mix of tomato, eggplant, peppers and spices), cucumber salad, Israeli salad, fresh olives and more.

Aside from the salads, there’ll certainly be fish and lots of dairy in Mediterranean coast locations.

In fact, back when I ate dairy (Dan eats dairy, and I prefer to take it out of my diet completely), I fell in love with the fresh mozzarella-style balls I’d find in Israeli breakfast buffets at hotels like the Savoy , and I never forgot to load up on those incredible fries at lunchtime restaurant buffets.

Of all the vegetarian dishes to focus on is Shakshuka. Most countries in the Middle East claim origins of this beautiful vegetarian dish, but we’ll give it to Israel for the moment.

Shakshuka is made of a tomato base, and can have additions of anything from eggplant to bell peppers to cheese on top of the eggs that are based in the flavorful goodness.

When traveling as a vegetarian in Israel, you can find it in most traditional-style Israeli brunch or lunch establishments, and I’ve had it for dinner as well. It will typically come with bread on the side.

I’ve had such lovely experiences eating shakshuka and staying vegetarian in both Jerusalem and Tel Aviv .

You may be wondering why the Baltic nation of Estonia is on this list. For the purposes of this guide to the best countries for vegetarians, we’ll be focusing on our experience as travelers in the capital of this country, which is Tallinn.

Tallinn, for its size, has an impressive list of health food locations that whip up vegan and vegetarian-friendly options made with local ingredients.

The country of Estonia , which is located on the North Sea, has a cold climate, giving its cuisine a hearty and healthy feel. It’s full of potatoes, carrots, beets, root vegetables and seasonings like onions and dill, and new age chefs have been putting a spin on tradition.

With a vegetarian diet, Tallinn’s eateries will get you quite far. For one thing, the tiny historic center has no shortage of cafes with lovely baked goods that will please any veggie traveler with a sweet tooth.

Next, Tallinn’s cafes like Must Puudel and NOP will have gluten-free, dairy-free and vegan-friendly options on their menus, which have plant-based lunches and dinners to make you feel right at home.

And lastly, shopping at local grocery stores like Rimi is easy, as you can shop local, cook on your own or enjoy a smattering of food products from other parts of the EU as well. We included this in our list of what to do in Tallinn !

If you think Mexico, you may think of tacos filled with simmered meat, but think again.

Dan’s favorite Mexican meal is the “torta de huevo,” and this is a bread sandwich from the streets of Mexico City with fried eggs in the middle. If you speak a dab of Spanish, be sure to say, “Yo no como la carne” (I don’t eat meat), to specify that you don’t want any meat products mixed into the sandwich.

Mexico is one of our absolute favorite destinations for travel, and yes: it is a foodie paradise. Take for example, chilaquiles! You can get this meal of tortilla chips bathed in salsa, with eggs, rather than chicken.

But what about vegetarians and vegans? For one thing, between the two of us, Dan doesn’t eat meat, poultry or seafood, and I don’t eat dairy or gluten or soy. Finding food for both of us to enjoy happens to occur in Mexico, a place with incredible culinary diversity.

While rural towns and small villages may have their traditional dishes that use pork or other meats as bases, larger cities like Mexico City, Merida , Tulum and Cancun will absolutely have you covered.

Among our favorite vegetarian restaurants in Mexico are:

• Che Che Juice Bar in Cancun Downtown for smoothies, grain bowls and coffee
• La Choco, Chocolateria Café in Merida for vegetarian chilaquiles, juices and desserts
• Veguisima in Mexico City for creative vegetarian tacos, Beyond Beef burgers and falafel
• Maikai Poke Condesa in Mexico City for a range of vegan (tofu) and vegetarian (fish) poke bowls.

Check out some of these vegan food tours and vegetarian cooking classes !

It should go without saying that a country as large as Canada is a good vegetarian travel destination, but why? Much of Canada prizes game meats and coastal seafood for sure, but in the cities, you’ll find vegetarian and vegan havens. Take for example our trip to Halifax , where we were able to always eat something vegetarian (vegan, even!) at so many great restaurants, like these:

Great spots for vegetarian and vegan food in Halifax, Nova Scotia

• Bar Sofia (try the vegetarian Tortilla de Papa starter and the Adobo Roasted Cauliflower with cashew “crema”)
• Darya (try the house pickles, simmered chickpeas and tahini, falafel balls and the stuffed eggplant!)
• The Daily Grind (try the smoothies (some are vegan), bagel & lox, house-made oat and peanut balls, the vegetarian breakfast skillet and the yogurt parfait)
• Sapori Italian Street Food (anything is easily vegetarian or even vegan at this choose-your-own-pasta joint with lots of pizza to boot)

I was in Banff, in the Canadian Rockies, in 2015, when I tried vegetarian poutine over French Fries and was totally sold. This was a veggie-style take on one of Canada’s most famous dishes that comes from the French Canadian tradition, and it was a great hint to me that there’s a lot of plant-based options when it comes to eating great food in Canada.

In cities like Montreal (also one of the safest cities for first-time travel ), Quebec City, Toronto and Vancouver , you’ll find all sorts of new cafes, coffee shops and restaurants that cater to the vegetarian, if not vegan-only, diets.

For starters, try these:

• Sham, Montreal
• PLANTA Queen, Toronto
• Copper Branch, Quebec City

United States

The United States is big and intimidating for many travelers who either want to go big and drive cross-country or hone in on several bucket list destinations like New York City , Las Vegas, the Grand Canyon and Miami.

When you look beyond the tourist hype though, go to the US as a vegetarian looking for the best veggie or vegan food that money can buy. You will be quite pleased.

The best vegetarian and vegan places to travel in the US are undoubtedly the big cities, but consider the following destination ideas, which all have a plethora of vegan-only or plant-based food experiences for you to try.

• Brooklyn, NY
• San Francisco, CA
• Los Angeles, CA
• Chicago, IL

Of course, you may know India as one of the most affordable places to travel .

I went to India with the crazy diet that I am on (no gluten, dairy or soy!) and I don’t presume you’ll have close to as many restrictions as I did. As someone who doesn’t eat any of the restrictive food groups on my list, I couldn’t partake in most of the food that gets served in India, but I sure know a whole lot about it!

My favorite, beyond favorite dish in India, that is luckily served all over the country, is Baigan Bharta. It is a beautiful mix of eggplant mixed with tomato, onion and usually peas, and a delightful array of spices. I’ve had it on the mild side, and on the mouth-tingling side, and I could eat an entire pot of it.

In the US, I’ve seen this dish on menus under the “vegan” section, and also under the “vegetarian” section. It depends if the chef makes it with oil or with ghee (so I recommend that you ask).

For the rest of the vegetarian and vegan cuisine in India, there’s lots. From naan and garlic naan to vegetable samosas, and then hearty dishes like Bhindi Masala (okra with spices), Chana Masala (chickpeas with spices) and Aloo Gobi (potatoes, peas and cauliflower, cooked in spices), this only outlines one region of the country’s cuisine.

As you travel throughout India, a place as gigantic as, well, a really big country, you’ll notice variations in food. In the south of India, rice is more prevalent than wheat, and coconut milk replaces cow’s milk in curries.

In the north, wheat will be king, and dairy will be plentiful as you get closer to the Himalayas. On the coast, in locations like Goa, seafood and fish will be omnipresent.

Sri Lanka was one of the most eye-opening foodie destinations for me, and for us honing in on our vegetarian travel, it was a fun place to be when avoiding meat, chicken and pork. It was also a great place to be a fruit lover.

Sri Lanka is an island to the southeast of India, and its cuisine shares a lot in common with the southern provinces of India that also capitalize on coconut milk and coconut parts as a big part of the cuisine.

In fact, buying a coconut on the street in Sri Lanka and having a vendor slice it open with a machete is the way to go! They’ll stick in a straw, and you’ve got a way to cool off and hydrate.

Sri Lanka’s food is very rice-based (which I appreciated), and we found ways to eat great meals that did not center around meat.

One of our most memorable meals was at a home-cooking restaurant by the beach in Mirissa, in the south. We enjoyed a plate of rice, sautéed green vegetables, fried eggs, and carrot-coconut salad, all with incredible flavors we had never witnessed before. We also went out for nice Chinese food in the town of Galle .

Sri Lankan breakfasts are also what you’ll want to write home about. With fresh fruit daily, local Ceylon tea, rice hoppers and coconut sambal, these spreads were what we wanted to replicate at home.

For more information on traveling in Sri Lanka, check out our Sri Lanka travel tips (or sneak a peak at all of the green nature ), in which we touch on what the food is like, overall.

We will not lie to you: Colombia as a country is big on meat, BUT , as a vegetarian or vegan in this South American nation, you can have a really nice time.

One of the best parts (in our opinion) about Colombia is the arepa. This is a thick pancake of a sort made of corn, and they’re hugely plentiful in markets, supermarkets and restaurants, topped with an assortment of things.

The other thing we love about Colombia is the incredible assortment of fruit. Truly, when we think about our (various) trips to Colombia, we remember the sweet and juicy fruits like the pitahaya, citrus, mangoes, bananas and more.

In the Medellin region, a dish called the Bandeja Paisa is king. The great news though, is that you can get a vegetarian version of this, with rice, fried plantains, a fried egg, avocado, an arepa and sometimes a salad or beans. It covers every food group and it will leave you full .

Street food may also be vegetarian, so don’t discount the fact that vendors may serve up fruit, fried delights or little potato poppers like these! Even better, check out all of the best restaurants in Medellin , where even some vegan and plant-based eateries have popped up.

That’s for traditional cuisine, though. In recent years, the big metropolises of Cartagena , Santa Marta , Bogota and Medellin have had modern vegan and vegetarian restaurants pop up as the plant-based diet gains popularity.

All of the best cafes in Medellin serve both coffee and popular vegetarian breakfast and lunch dishes (all day!), and you’ll find many in El Poblado. Cartagena has lots of ways to enjoy fish, and so does Santa Marta . And in Bogota , cool areas like Zona T will have veggie-friendly cafes for the young and hip crowd.

Eat at these places:

• Medellin: Veg Station (vegan)
• Bogota: Naturalmente (vegan)
• Cartagena: Agua De Leon
• Santa Marta: Ikaro Cafe

Guatemala is also a Central American country located in the Rice and Beans Belt, but with a ton of internal variety.

Guatemala is one of the larger countries in Central America, aside from Mexico, and within its borders, it has jungle, mountains, coastline and volcanoes. Given the diversity of the land, Guatemala has lots of food to enjoy, namely… avocados.

Just kidding, there’s so much more to this country than its avocados, but they certainly are a highlight. For vegetarians, there’s lots to eat with eggs, once you go inland, as well as soy products (while not inherently local) at the cafes and health food restaurants of Antigua , one of the country’s most popular destinations.

Antigua is the place in Guatemala where I have been to twice, and from my first visit in 2015 when I ate a vegetarian diet (black beans and eggs, every day!) to this year when I went with my vegetarian sibling, there were few issues to encounter.

Aside from one Antigua luncheonette mainstay that doesn’t sport any vegetarian offerings, every other sort of traditional cafe, coffee shop or restaurant had a vegetarian egg option, if not a vegan-friendly brunch choice like avo toast. Check out this list for starters .

My absolute favorite thing to eat in Guatemala is a breakfast, brunch and lunch dish of two eggs, doused in salsa and served on a thick Guatemalan corn tortilla right out of the kitchen. It’s served with coffee and a fruit salad, and it simply can’t be beat. There’s also many ways to enjoy Guatemala’s scenery with some vegan food, at the same time:

A few veggie-friendly cafes in Antigua are:

• Artista de café
• Cafe Estudio
• Alegria Cafe

The Netherlands

The Netherlands is a very vegetarian-friendly country, and it’s one where English is incredibly widely spoken as well.

On our first morning in Amsterdam we went to a charming brunch cafe called Anne & Max , where we both had trouble choosing from so many vegetarian options on the menu.

Later on, we met up with a friend for vegetarian Middle Eastern food, and this was after enjoying a gorgeous vegetarian- and vegan-friendly buffet breakfast at our hotel, the Lloyd Hotel.

Dutch food itself includes a fair share of meat, but when you cast it aside, the cuisine is healthy and varied. In The Netherlands, you’ll typically find lots of great local bread and cheese.

As much of the country has a coastline, fish is a popular protein to have with meals, and so are eggs. At health food cafes and shops like STACH , you’ll be able to include staples like nuts, seeds and other vegan proteins in meals. Salads are also popular.

If you’re over Dutch food, fear not: the Netherlands also has lots of international food to choose from at restaurants, from Israeli to Indian to Italian. There’s also markets, for fresh vegetables, eggs and produce.

The Netherlands supports a healthy culture, like their dedication to bicycling , parks and healthy eating. It makes a great destination for everyone!

Would you believe the best vegetarian food I had in all of Ireland was in a restaurant called Bollywood , in the town of Shannon? It’s true.

And while Shannon only has about two hands’ worth of restaurants because it’s so small, you’ll probably have to head to Dublin for the real scene in Ireland’s vegetarian and vegan scene.

To be honest, though, Ireland was a place where Dan and I road tripped along the Western Coast and then drove to the East, and the mainstay of our diets that week was from supermarkets. This was simply because we were driving and hiking so much, and weren’t sure when we’d have time in the day to stop by a proper restaurant.

With that being said, we had a nice time exploring supermarkets in Ireland when we could find them, picking up breads, crackers, dips, vegetables and fruits to take with us from day to day.

When we got to Dublin, we cooked in our Airbnb and also explored cafes and the restaurant area of Trinity College and Temple Bar, where today, you’ll find the largest assortment of Dublin’s plant-based places to eat.

Three things that are for sure in Ireland: coffee, beer and hard cider are all vegan.

Peru could make you think of red meat, cuy (guinea pig) from the highlands and other non-vegetarian friendly foods, but in reality, Peru is a great place to travel and be a vegetarian.

My most memorable meals in Peru have been in Lima , and involved fish. Peruvian cuisine has an incredible way of marinating fish in citrus juice and turning it into ceviche with perfect additions of choclo (big corn), camote (sweet potato) and red onion. The flavors are to die for, and pescatarians will never want to leave.

For vegans, or anyone, Peru’s fruits are fantastic. Try maracuya (passionfruit), aguaymanto and granadilla, and for vegetables, don’t miss the tomatoes, potatoes (hundreds of kinds!) and beware of the spicy heat of the rocoto chile!

Another vegan element of Peruvian cuisine is the plethora of types of potatoes. Rumor has it there may be more than 4,000 species of potatoes, grown all over the country. In addition, bakeries carry delicious treats, and there’s never a shortage of corn.

The best cities for vegetarian and vegan places to eat in Peru are in Lima, Cusco, Mancora and Paracas. Try these favorite spots in Lima:

• Raw Cafe - Independencia
• Veda Restaurante
• Seitan Urban Bistro

As a vegetarian traveling in Costa Rica, I didn’t even eye anything containing meat on a menu, and luckily, I didn’t have to.

I had a ton of luck eating at the “sodas” of Costa Rica. These small establishments are family-run mom-and-pop eateries with set menus that are usually vegetarian to begin with.

Costa Rica sits in the lower half of the part of Central American “funnel” (that’s what it looks like to me, at least!) and it’s in the “Rice and Beans Belt,” a moniker that many backpackers endearingly use to refer to the region and its food.

A meal I’d eat in Costa Rica with no problem as a vegetarian was a set lunch of rice, beans, eggs and a small salad, and if you need more food, order a second! This makes Costa Rica also a fine destination for traveling while gluten-free .

Nowadays, with the traveler influx from the Americas, backpacker and luxury tourism destinations like Tamarindo, Monteverde and Manuel Antonio have vegetarian and vegan cafes that promote health food and plant-based meals where any vegetarian or vegan can eat with peace of mind.

Sure, Nicaragua is a great destination for escaping winter cold , but it’s also where I went traveling when I was vegan. As you can guess, I survived with flying colors (and a lot of beans).

I went with my friend Joe, who is also a long-time vegan, and as he had been traveling in Central America for several months beforehand, he knew exactly what was up.

The morning I arrived, we went to a market and sat down at a restaurant stall to have a breakfast-brunch of black beans, rice and avocado, for about $1.50. This was when I learned that eating vegan around the world is not only healthy, but it can save you a heap of money when traveling !

With a newfound surge in tourism since the mid 2010s, Nicaragua now welcomes travelers from around the world and has burgeoning surf scenes on the Western coast, along with new developments in luxury tourism.

The best places to eat vegan and vegetarian in Nicaragua (if you want to avoid crowded markets) are in San Juan del Sur, Granada, Leon and Isla Ometepe. Try these spots:

• Gaia Forest Cafe, Granada
• Café de los Sueños, Granada
• Coco Calala, Leon
• Tacubaya Latin Food, Leon

Thailand: the land of peanuts, noodles, eggs and tofu! As a vegetarian in Thailand, I was eating my weight in curries, Pad Thai, noodles and soups.

Thailand is one of my favorite destinations, and if I am counting correctly, I have been there three times. What’s great to know about Thailand is that, many will say, the Thai food you find at restaurants in the US is astonishingly close to what you’ll find in the country itself (with some exceptions).

If you’d like to practice with Thai cuisine before you leave home for your trip, head to any Thai restaurant, and speak with the owner or with a server about which dishes are completely vegetarian or vegan, or which can be made that way.

Here’s my hint, though: ask about shrimp paste (if you’re a vegetarian) and fish sauce (if vegan). These two hidden ingredients add lots of flavor in Thai food, and plant-based eaters will have a strong preference for a dish to not include one or both.

Thailand is a “rice country,” and what’s amazing about that is that so many Thai foods are perfectly chewy, fried and quite addictive. To avoid meat and poultry, go for the tofu or egg alternative, both of which are easy to find and available in common eateries.

Of course, as Thailand continues to open up to travelers from around the world (did you know that Thailand has Southeast Asia’s oldest tourism infrastructure?), you’ll find more plant-based and vegan-centric locales in the travel-heavy areas of Chiang Mai, Bangkok and Koh Samui and Koh Phangan.

South Africa

While South Africa is certainly the land of game meats, heading into its cities for vegetarian finds is possible and not difficult.

Take Cape Town, for example. This is where you’ll find most travelers hitting the beautiful harbor and the awesome nightlife of the city. In cafes like Truth Coffee, you’ll be able to score a vegetarian or vegan brunch, together with an incredible cup of joe.

Try creative vegetarian South African cuisines in cities like Johannesburg and Pretoria as well, as the vegan culture of these growing destinations is up to par.

While vegetarians in South Africa won’t be pairing a steak with South African wine, what’s to say there aren’t other foods to try with the incredible fruits of the vineries in South Africa’s wine country? Plus, with a country so large and spanning so many climate zones, there’s always fresh vegetables to find in markets, as well as fun cuisines from around the continent.

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10 Best US Cities for Vegan Food

Visiting a city with a non-stop itinerary of things to do and see is great, but what about food (vegan food to be exact)? People often suggest places from their must-visit list that I need to add to my travel itinerary, but I am often left thinking, ok, great! There’s a beautiful art museum, but am I going to have to survive on iceberg lettuce? That’s just not going to cut it!

If you’re like me and would really like to have fun, but also eat, then this lineup is for you! These 10 US cities are chock full of great vegan food and I’m not talking just basic veggie burgers. Think charcuterie boards filled to the brim with creamy cheeses, crispy mushroom calamari, comforting Soul Food, and so much more. And, don’t worry, these cities have plenty of fun to be had too!

For your next adventure, you need to prioritize a visit to these US cities for their to-die-for lineup of vegan food!

This article contains affiliate links (paid links) and Veggies Abroad is a member of Amazon Services LLC Associated Program. A t no cost to you, I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase — this helps keep Veggies Abroad churning out free content! For an explanation of our advertising partnerships, please review our privacy policy.

You Need to Visit These US Cities if You Love Vegan Food!

#1 new york city.

The city that never sleeps, also never stops eating amazing vegan food! While it’s expected that New York City would grace a list like this, it’s for good reason— the diversity and quality of food is amazing! Your biggest dilemma will be figuring out how in the world you will fit it all into your itinerary!  Have no fear! I have you covered with a complete vegan guide to NYC and a lineup of the best vegan and gluten-free food . You can experience just about anything in NYC from chic fine vegan dining to greasy slices of New York-style pizza and stacks of syrup covered pancakes for a satisfying vegan brunch!

After all that eating you can rest assured there are plenty of things to do and see in NYC , along with plenty of walking (you gotta keep moving to fit all that food in any way!).  Make sure you don’t miss a visit to the city’s first vegan shoe boutique, Moo Shoes, along with a tour of Ellis Island, and then peruse some of the city’s finest museums. 

#2 Philadelphia

Just a 90-minute train ride from New York City is a sleeping vegan gem—Philly! For years a trip to Philadelphia had been on my list but was always replaced by other spots. Man was I missing out! The City of Brotherly Love is the perfect destination for a US history lesson and to eat yourself silly. If you think you’ll miss out on traditional favorites like Philly Cheesesteaks, think again! You can load up with a mouth-watering vegan Philly Cheesesteak in one hand and a hearty Italian hoagie in the other—go wild, we’re not judging!

You can find all the amazing vegan eats Philly has to offer in my complete vegan guide to Philadelphia or for an abridged version, just check out my recommendations for the 10 best spots for vegan food. 

Aside from US history, there is plenty of green space to explore, art to appreciate, and stairs to climb (if you’re a fan of the movie Rocky). If the weather is nice, be sure to grab a drink and sit by the water at the Cherry Street Pier. This bustling spot hosts a variety of food trucks, art, and more throughout the year.

Nestled on the glistening shores of Lake Michigan, The Windy City is a welcoming and approachable big city. While other giants like LA or NYC may feel a little overwhelming, Chicago is far more laid back, but still chock full of arts, culture, and, of course, vegan food! And I think your quest for vegan food will only help you appreciate Chicago even more. Many of the best eateries are spread out all over the city, so as you eat, you’ll naturally get a city tour!

While you can definitely get your fill of the city’s famous pizza, make sure you don’t miss Kale My Name’s mac-n-cheese balls or get a nutrient boost at Chicago Raw. To help plan your vegan adventure check out my vegan travel guide to Chicago and you also won’t want to miss the best vegan pizza spots in the Windy City either!

And, to appreciate one of the most beautiful cities in the US, make sure you hop on an architecture boat tour or rent a kayak for a unique perspective. 

Looking for epic nightlife, gorgeous beaches, and a gluttonous amount of vegan food? Then look no further than Miami! Over 10 years ago I visited Miami and thought the diversity of vegan food was subpar. Fast forward to 2024, and the vegan food scene is red hot—other cities need to take note!

Whether you’re looking for chic dining (I mean, it’s Miami, everything is just a little chic) or artfully crafted French pastries (don’t miss L’Artisane), you’ll find it!  Before you book your spring break destination, be sure to check out my top 10 places for vegan and gluten-free food in Miami and guide to where to stay in Miami!

While the beach is a lovely place to relax, there is so much more to do and see in Miami! From the thought-provoking street murals that cover Wynwood to the plant-based vendors selling all sorts of food and wares at the Coconut Grove Farmers Market (it’s the only one of its kind in Miami)—you won’t get bored. 

You won’t have time to learn the two-step with the massive amount of vegan food in Austin! The eclectic capital of Texas is a vegan oasis. You’ll find a vegan milkshake truck, authentic Birria tacos, vegan bakeries , and so much more — I was honestly surprised at the massive lineup of eats.

Aside from eating on the greenside, Austin also has a love affair with the outdoors. You can grab a kayak and paddle around Lady Bird Lake, cool off during the summer in Barton Springs, and hike or bike your heart out. It’s also home to the original Whole Foods, which on the surface doesn’t sound all that exciting, but it’s honestly like a mega mall — you can grab a fresh smoothie, giant burger, or even a glass of Pinot Noir while you shop! Don’t miss our full vegan travel guide to Austin or the best spots for vegan breakfast or brunch to plan your entire adventure!

#6 San Francisco

There is a little bit of everything packed into San Francisco’s seven-by-seven square miles – from iconic attractions to a world-class food scene. In between dodging Carl the Fog (did you realize they named the famous fog?) to snap pictures of the Golden Gate Bridge, you’ll be delighted with breakfast bowls filled to the brim with fresh berries and coconut, crispy empanadas filled with sweet plantains, spicy Tofuna rolls, and so much more!

Check out this lineup of the 15 best vegan restaurants in San Francisco and this one for amazing vegan bakeries and sweets!

It won’t take long for you to realize why San Francisco has been nominated countless times as one of the best places to visit as a vegan.  In between all that eating, make sure you don’t miss the stunning city views from Twin Peaks and, if you have enough time, a trip to The Muir Woods National Monument to marvel at the sagacious Redwoods shouldn’t be missed!

#7 Los Angeles

No list of cities to visit for vegan food in the US is complete without mentioning LA. The sprawling metropolis is home to the chic glamour of Hollywood, diverse neighborhoods and culture, and a mega vegan food scene (it’s estimated that there are nearly 1,000 plant-based restaurants)! I know New York City is known as the city that never sleeps, but LA is right on its heels. There is so much to do, see, and eat, that you have to plan ahead! 

Whether you’re in the mood for fancy vegan cuisine, mounds of sauce-covered pasta, or the greasy goodness of burgers and fries, LA has you covered. After getting your fill of vegan eats and celeb sightings make sure you plan some time to connect with a little nature (yes, even in LA!) and go for a hike at Los Liones or Runyon Canyon. Even if you only have one-day in LA, you’ve got to go!

Make sure you check out my guide to everything vegan in LA!

The laid-back, cool kid of the Pacific Northwest is not only one of the best places to enjoy a cup of joe, but also a thriving vegan food scene with plenty of outdoor activities (weather permitting), and a diversity of art and culture. Seattle has long been hailed as a foodie haven and that also includes a diversity of vegan options. Just about any decent restaurant that you visit in the city will have something to offer their veggie-fans and vegan ones have been known to please even the staunchest meat-eater!

If you’re in a hurry, dash into one of two vegan fast-food chains — Veggie Grill or Next Level Burger for quick eats, but for a really special treat you can’t miss The Harvest Beat’s 5-course dinner with wine pairing. No matter where you visit in The Emerald City you won’t be disappointed! Don’t forget to check out our full vegan travel guide to Seattle before you go!

# 9 Portland

No list of vegan-friendly US cities is complete without mentioning Portland! The vibrant, bike-loving city has a funky vibe that is uniquely its own. It’s safe to say that there is nowhere quite like Portland. The Rose City, as it is affectionately known (locals don’t care for the Stumptown nickname), is the perfect place to support artsy independent shops, sip craft brews, and gorge yourself in its mega vegan food scene.

At last count, there were nearly 50 fully vegan restaurants in Portland — can you believe it?! Aside from all the vegan ones, just about any self-respecting restaurant will have a vegan option. You can start the day with a giant cream-filled donut at Doe Donuts , enjoy the best Bahn Mi at Mama Đút (they were featured on Netflix’s “Street Food: USA” series), for dinner grab an artisanal pizza pie from Virtuous Pie, then wrap up the day with a treat at one of Portland’s vegan bakeries!

The vegan fun doesn’t end with food in Portland!

Make sure you don’t miss the only vegan market, Food Fight!, or get some vegan ink at Scape Goat Tattoo! This just scratches Portland’s vegan surface; for more fun check out the complete Portland vegan travel guide.

#10 Las Vegas

I was honestly didn’t expect Las Vegas to be vegan-friendly ! The city once known primarily for its buffets and steakhouse culture has embraced the growing demand for vegan cuisine — hooray!

Many of the city’s fancy schmancy eateries now feature dedicated vegan menus, and even traditional restaurants are increasingly offering vegan alternatives. While you can find delicious options all over the city, you’ve really got to get off of The Strip to find some of the best gems. With creative plant-based chefs pushing culinary boundaries, you can find everything from sophisticated fine-dining to mouthwatering vegan fast food breakfast sandwiches!

Vegan City Wrap Up: More Vegan Travel Help

If your travels aren’t taking you to any of these vegan hot spots or you need more inspiration, check out these other fabulous guides!

The Ultimate Vegan Travel Guide to Brighton, England The Best Washington DC Vegan Travel Guide Vegan Festival and Events Worth Checking Out 10 Must-Try Vegan Bakeries in London The Ultimate Vegan Travel Guide to New Orleans

Rebecca is the founder of the vegan travel company Veggies Abroad. In 2021, she bid her 15-year career goodbye and ventured into the world of ethical business with the launch of a vegan travel blog (the one you’re reading!). As the blog flourished, Rebecca expanded her vision to encompass personalized travel planning services and launched Veggies Abroad's inaugural vegan tour to Thailand, marking the beginning of many more eco-conscious, plant-powered adventures to come. Follow her adventures on Instagram or Facebook @veggiesabroad

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Veganism is a growing trend these days and many people choose to change their diets for a variety of reasons.

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Traveling, on the other hand, can be a challenging task. You may not know where to eat or which cities or countries offer an ample selection of vegan food to eat during your visit.

So, if you happen to be vegan and are searching for vegan-friendly places to visit, here are the 8 vegan travel destinations for you to discover.

Many of these destinations even offer vegan food tours so you can explore some great restaurants with a local.

(This post contains affiliate links, which means I receive a certain percentage of a sale if you purchase after clicking.)

8 Best Vegan Travel Destinations You Need to Visit as a Vegan!

Though veganism is not particularly popular in Greece, their food may surprise you as many dishes are vegan by default.

The primary religion of the Greek people is Christian Orthodox, where fasting periods are standard at specific periods within the year. For example, during Lent, people are prevented from eating animal products. 

You can try their dolmadakia yalantzi , which is the vegan version of their dolmadakia ( stuffed grape leaves ). The dish typically has rice and ground beef, but you can often ask the restaurant to make it vegan.

Another meal you can try is gemista (stuffed tomatoes and peppers with rice), which can also be vegan.

Let’s not forget a delicious Greek salad , minus the feta of course. Finally, Spanakopita (spinach pie) is famous in the Greek islands , and you can find something similar to it without dairy.

Berlin is a place in Germany that caters to all types of diets and ways of life, and it is easy to find vegan food in the German capital. 

It might actually be considered one of the vegan capitals of the world , or at least certainly in Europe with so many options catering to the many vegan residents in this trendy and alternative city.

Do you love donuts? You can enjoy one at Brammibal’s Donuts . Not only that, but they also have vegan meals for breakfast and lunch.

Another vegan place at the center of Moabit, Berlin, is geh Veg . They offer soy-based ice creams and a wide selection of bagels, vegan spreads, smoothies, and more. 

3. New York

New York is another city with a large and growing vegan scene .

Though the vast majority of New Yorkers might eat animal products, there is a growing trend and there are more and more restaurants that offer vegan food around NYC .

A couple of popular places to try are Two Boots for vegan pizza or Ess-a-Bagel for delicious vegan bagels and spreads.

Another vegan place to consider is Jujube Tree. The Asian restaurant serves vegan meals inspired by different cuisines like Thailand, China, Korea, and Japan.

4. Florence

Visiting Florence is one of the best things to do in Tuscany . Even as a vegan, it should be high on your list!

To your surprise, Italian food can also be vegan, and yes, you can eat vegan pizza and pasta in Florence. You can consume pizzas without cheese in pizzerias , such as the vegeteriana or marinara .

You can even take a vegan food tour in the city where the guide will show you some delicious restaurants serving vegan dishes like cecina, breakfast cornetto, gelato, Panzanella, pappa al Pomodoro, and ribollita.

But be careful, due to the many awesome vegan food options you may consider moving to Florence afterward!

Mangsawirat is the term for being vegetarian in Thailand, however, the diet includes eggs. There is another term that is best-fit vegans, which is Jay .

So, when you’re checking out menus, most restaurants in Bangkok will usually label their vegetarian dishes as mangsariwat or jay , depending on the ingredients used.

With that said, one must-visit place in Bangkok is May Veggie Home . The restaurant serves pure vegan cuisine and is known to be one of the city’s top vegan restaurants .

It’s frequently visited by both locals and tourists.

The place is usually busy, so you can make reservations online to ensure you get a table and enjoy all the vegan meals on their menu.

6. Reykjavík

Reykjavík, Iceland is definitely among the up-and-coming vegan travel destinations.

It has tons of delicious vegan food, everything from traditional Icelandic comfort foods like hearty soups and bread to burgers, pizzas, and desserts.

You can find vegan options pretty much everywhere, including supermarkets, and restaurants that are happy to make their meals vegan.

Gló is a local restaurant with several locations in the city that serves delicious and healthy food, using local and organic ingredients , like soups, salads, sandwiches and has a variety of treats like brownies and tiramisu.

Enjoy an awesome lunch with creamy broccoli soup, peanut satay fried tofu , veggies, potato salad, coleslaw, raw sprouted crackers and hummus.

You’ll get all the energy you need to go explore beautiful Iceland in winter with a yummy vegan spread.

7. Siem Reap

Siem Reap is firmly on the map as the place to go in Cambodia to visit the amazing Angkor Wat, which really does live up to the hype.

It’s hot, dusty and a little crazy at times but it also got quite a growing vegan scene .

If you know where to look there are loads of vegan options including accidentally vegan Cambodian street food , local restaurants that are happy to leave out animal products, cafés that serve soy or nut milk in their coffees, vegan-friendly fine dining and even places with raw vegan cake .

One local favorite food comes straight from the street and is called nom heng ; sweet, sesame laced, puffy fried bread which is a great early morning snack.

You’ll find people selling them on the side of the street from little carts. It’s best to get them when they’ve been freshly cooked for a full irresistible vegan street food effect.

8. Slovenia

Last but not least, head to the center of Ljubljana and check out Odprta Kuhna .

Every Friday from March through October, culinary wizards gather to form Odprta Kuhna – meaning “open kitchen” – and dish out the best of local and international cuisine from around Slovenia.

With nine vegan stalls , from burgers to falafel, you’ll want to sample everything.

Head to Barbarella and sample both the savory and sweet options, like spot-on curry and decadent chocolate mousse .

For lunch, dinner or both, head to one of Slovenia’s five Loving Hut locations. As a popular vegan restaurant chain, the Ljubljana Center location offers a remarkably affordable buffet with daily rotating choices.

Whereas the Maribor Loving Hut serves international cuisine like kung pao, chow mein, and kebab.

Finally, don’t leave Ljubljana without savoring the gelato. Though Italy is the king of gelato, Slovenian gelato makers claim to have been making gelato for just as long as their neighbors.

Visit Zvezda , with a large variety of vegan options , including several berry flavors and rich dark chocolate.

Just down the road, enjoy gelato while sitting in the swings that serve as chairs at Aroma , which entices passersby with handmade choices , such as strawberry with fresh mint and lemon with basil.

So if you happen to visit one of these vegan travel destinations, don’t lose heart! As you see, vegan food is everywhere – you just need to know where to look. 😉

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Do you want to travel like me? Here are some of my favorite travel tips and resources:

Flights: I prefer using CheapOair or Skyscanner to book flights. The destination everywhere feature is perfect for finding some cheap deals! Accommodation: Booking.com is my favorite site to find some great hotel deals. I do love staying at a local place as well, thus I book an Airbnb every now and then. Travel Insurance: There are many reasons why travel insurance is important and I never travel without having one. I use the simple and flexible one from World Nomads to be protected against unforeseen events. Tours: I love taking tours to explore destinations like a local. My favorite website to book them in advance is GetYourGuide . Camera Gear: I use a Nikon D5300 camera with an 18-105 mm and a 10-20 mm wide-angle lens to take my photos.   

Hey and welcome to my blog! I’m Alina, an Austrian travel addict and vegan food lover who has a passion for exploring new destinations and trying out the best plant-based food around the world. Come and join me as I share exciting bucket list experiences and provide helpful travel guides for your own adventures!

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20 Comments

Nice list! I am surprised to see Siem Reap on the list. Veganism is a fast-growing trend in so many parts of the world. And I feel so good to see that change.

Oh yes & I’m super happy about that!

Good to hear that Florence has improved its vegan offerings! I went about 3 years ago and it was awful for plant-based food. I really struggled.

Oh no sorry to hear that! I think during the last three years happened a lot in the vegan scene!

I definitely wouldn’t have considered some of these places to be so Vegan friendly! That’s good to know as I love trying out Vegan restaurants while I travel.

Me neither but it’s really great to see!

I love this post and it is very useful. I was vegan at one time, and I know it is always so hard to find good options of places to eat. I will be sharing this post with my vegan friends.

Happy to hear that Paula!

I love all of your suggestions, they are places I want to go (I have only been to New York and Berlin). I am excited to discover the vegan dishes that Thailand and Cambodia offer. I love the food there.

Yeeees! So much to try around the world!

These are some great tips and places. I actually never thought of Reykjavik as a place that would have many vegan options and it’s one of the reasons I’ve been more hesitant about visiting sooner, so this is great to know. I find Tallinn in Estonia has a lot of vegan places including a vegan chocolate shop and many restaurants and options in non vegan restaurants

Oh wow Tallinn sounds really promising! Would totally love to go there 🙂

I’m not vegan but absolutely love finding good vegan restaurants as I try to eat less animal products when I can. There are also some great vegan restaurants in London too. It’s so great that so many places are having more vegan options 🙂

Oh yes London is paradise for vegans!

Although I am not a vegan it is great to know one has these choices. Great post and lovely travel destinations.

Wow, places I never would’ve thought of all the places on here. I noticed Ireland also has alot of diet restriction offers- gluten free, vegan etc.

Never been to Ireland unfortunately but really wanna go!

Ooh yum! I know it’s hard to travel as a vegan, so good to know there are so many delicious options all around the world!

Yes and it’s getting easier and easier 🙂

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10 Best US Cities For Vegans in 2023

The United States varies considerably when it comes to its access to vegan food, community, and quality. In fact, two cities just hours apart can have a very different vegan scene altogether.

New data released by WalletHub compared 100 cities in the US to determine the best cities for vegans. The data looked specifically at:

• Vegan/Vegetarian Lifestyle:
• Food Diversity, Accessibility & Quality
• Food Affordability

The findings vary depending on which point is focused on. For the purpose of this article, we've listed the best US cities for vegans based on vegan lifestyle. This means the cities may not be ideal when it comes to diversity and affordability. To see the overall rankings, skip to the end of this article.

Top 10 Vegan-Friendly US Cities

1. san francisco, ca.

• Lifestyle & Community: 1st
• Accessibility & Diversity: 1st
• Affordability: 99th

San Francisco has long been one of the best places for vegans in the United States. The city ranks first for its access to vegan and vegetarian food as well as one of the most diverse cities in the country. San Fransico also has the 2nd most Farmer's Markets per capita in the US.

Unfortunately, San Francisco also ranks 99th in affordability and is one of the most expensive cities to purchase vegetarian-based groceries in the US. So while its vegan options are aplenty, it does come at a cost... especially if you're looking at relocating.

2. Los Angeles, CA

• Lifestyle & Community: 2nd
• Accessibility & Diversity: 17th
• Affordability: 45th

Los Angeles comes in a close second place when considering its wealth of vegan options. Los Angeles is also more affordable than San Franciso, but by countrywide standards, LA is still quite a high-priced city.

3. Seattle, WA

• Lifestyle & Community: 3rd
• Accessibility & Diversity: 3rd
• Affordability: 92nd

Seattle is growing into one of the most vegan-friendly destinations in the US. However, much like many West Coast cities, Seattle has an abundance of vegan restaurants and food options but has an extremely high cost of living.

4.  Madison, WI

• Lifestyle & Community: 4th
• Accessibility & Diversity: 18th
• Affordability: 81st

Madison is the only city in the Midwest that made it into the top 10 list. While Madison isn't the most affordable city, it does have a strong vegan community with many vegan restaurants dotted around the city.

5. Tampa, FL

• Lifestyle & Community: 5th
• Accessibility & Diversity: 9th
• Affordability: 62nd

For the first time, Tampa has ousted Miami as Florida's best city for vegans due to its growing accessibility to vegan food and lifestyle. Tampa also has the third most vegetable nurseries per capita in the US.

However, with Tampa's affordability index sitting at 62nd, it's still far from being considered an affordable city, however, Tampa provides a decent vegan lifestyle to affordability balance that appears to lack in the West.

6. Charlotte, NC

• Lifestyle & Community: 6th
• Accessibility & Diversity: 43rd
• Affordability: 56th

Perhaps the biggest surprise to this list is North Carolina's Charlotte sneaking into the 6th spot for vegan lifestyle. Charlotte is the second most affordable city out of the top 10 list, sitting at 56th overall.

Charlotte lacks most in its diversity, accessibility and quality ranking 43rd, which is the third lowest of the top 10 cities for vegans.

7. Nashville, TN

• Lifestyle & Community: 7th
• Accessibility & Diversity: 45th
• Affordability: 43rd

Nashville's vegan scene has grown considerably in the last 5 years. And while being a southern city known for music and BBQs, veganism has really seemed to flourish in the Music City.

Affordability and diversity of vegan food and restaurants are both in the 40s, meaning Nashville edges out many of the other top 10 cities in this list.

8. Miami, FL

• Lifestyle & Community: 8th
• Accessibility & Diversity: 4th
• Affordability: 82nd

Miami has long been a leader when it comes to being a vegan-friendly city. Both vegan lifestyle and accessibility rank among the country's top 10. However, Miami falls short when it comes to the affordability of vegan options for both groceries and restaurants.

9. Fremont, CA

• Lifestyle & Community: 9th
• Accessibility & Diversity: 94th
• Affordability: 100th

Don't be fooled. While Fremont, California has the 9th best vegan lifestyle options, it falls considerably in the areas of accessibility, diversity and affordability. In fact, out of the 100 cities included in the study, Fremont ranked 94th for its access to vegan options and last for affordability.

The only cities more expensive than Fremont to buy vegan groceries are San Fransico and Honolulu, according to the study.

10. Oakland, CA

• Lifestyle & Community: 10th
• Accessibility & Diversity: 20th
• Affordability: 95th

As a common theme through the study, Californian cities ranked very highly when it comes to vegan options, but drop the ball on affordability. The positive for Oakland is its range of quality vegan food options is more diverse and accessible than Fremont, but still less than San Francisco and Los Angeles.

Most Vegan-Friendly Cities: Overall Rank

Source: WalletHub

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Discover the World

17 Top Tourist Attractions in Moscow

By Alex Schultz · Last updated on November 3, 2023

The capital of Russia is an incredible place to explore. Visitors to Moscow come away spellbound at all the amazing sights, impressed at the sheer size and grandeur of the city. Lying at the heart of Moscow, the Red Square and the Kremlin are just two of the must-see tourist attractions; they are the historical, political and spiritual heart of the city – and indeed Russia itself.

A fascinating city to wander around, stunning cathedrals, churches, and palaces lie side-by-side with bleak grey monuments and remains from the Soviet state. In addition to its plethora of historical and cultural tourist attractions, Moscow is home to world-class museums, theaters and art galleries.

Renowned for its performing arts, fantastic ballets and amazing circus acts, catching a show while in Moscow is a must. The wealth of brilliant restaurants, trendy bars, and lively nightlife means there is something for everyone to enjoy.

See also: Where to Stay in Moscow

17. Tsaritsyno Palace

Once the summer residence of Catherine the Great, the stunning Tsaritsyno Palace is now a museum-reserve. The architecture is magnificent and there is a lovely park surrounding it for visitors to explore.

Located in the south of Moscow, the palace was commissioned in 1775 and recent renovations mean its lavish interior looks better than ever before with its elegant halls and beautiful staircases.

The exhibits on display look at the life of the empress as well as the history of Tsaritsyno itself. The huge palace grounds are also home to some other delightful buildings with the elegant opera house and wonderful brickwork of the Small Palace being particularly impressive to gaze upon.

Starting out in 1935 as the ‘All-Union Agricultural Exhibition’, VDNKh has slowly morphed over the years into the fascinating open-air museum of today. Remarkably, over 400 buildings can now be found within its confines.

The huge park complex has numerous pavilions representing former Soviet republics on show, such as those of Armenia and Turkmenistan and the distinctive architecture of each of the buildings is always interesting to gaze upon. In addition to this there is the fascinating Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics which is dedicated to space exploration and the fun Moskvarium aquarium even offers you the chance to swim with dolphins.

With lots of eateries scattered about and numerous entertainment options such as horse-riding and zip-lining, there is something for everyone to enjoy; the Friendship of Nations fountain truly is wonderful.

15. Kremlin Armoury

One of the oldest museums in the city, the Kremlin Armoury has a wealth of treasures; highlights include the ornate Grand Siberian Railway egg, the historic Cap of Monomakh and the stunning Imperial Crown of Russia which often has a crowd of tourists around it, jostling to take a photo.

Once the royal armory, there are loads of fascinating objects on display. Perusing the many sabers, jewelry, armor and more is as interesting as it is educational and entertaining and the swords are so finely crafted that you’ll almost wish you could pick up one and wield if yourself.

Established in 1851, the museum is situated in the Moscow Kremlin.

14. GUM Department Store

Standing for ‘Main Universal Store’ in Russian, GUM is stunning. Its wonderful skylights and beautiful facades mean it doesn’t look out of place alongside its illustrious neighbors on Red Square.

With over 200 shops, boutiques and upmarket eateries inside, it is a shopaholic’s heaven and concerned partners will be glad to find more affordable options alongside luxury brands such as Dior and Prada.

The main department store in the city, GUM was opened in 1893. The stunning architecture makes it well worth a visit even if shopping isn’t your thing.

13. Moscow Metro

It’s not often that public transport looks like a work of art. So many stops on the Moscow Metro will astound visitors with their beauty and elegance.

Decked in marble and with frescoes covering the walls, the stations are amazing to gaze upon and are part of one of the longest metro systems in the world, with the first stations opened in 1935.

Using the metro is the quickest and easiest way to get around Moscow and braving the crowds of commuters is well worth it for the beauty all around you.

12. Arbat Street

An elegant yet lively street, Arbat is full of impressive architecture and was once a popular place to live for aristocrats, artists, and academics.

A historic place, it is down Arbat Street that Napoleon’s troops are said to have headed on their way to capture the Kremlin.

Nowadays, there are many cafes, restaurants, and shops, as well as various monuments and statues to former residents such as Alexander Pushkin who was reputed to be a lover of the Russian Empress due to his massive influence in court.

11. Novodevichy Convent

Drenched in history, the Novodevichy Convent is located in a striking building that was once a fortress. This captivating place is well worth visiting when in Moscow.

Founded in 1524, the convent houses four cathedrals; Smolensk Cathedral is the undoubted highlight due to its delightful 16th-century frescoes.

Wandering around the grounds is like stepping back in time. The Novodevichy Cemetery is where many famous leaders of the Soviet Union are buried, such as Yeltsin and Khrushchev.

10. Pushkin Museum

Despite its name, the Pushkin Museum of Fine Arts actually has no connection at all to the famous poet other than that it was named in his honor after his death. A delight to visit, its extensive collection focuses on European art with masterpieces by Botticelli, Rembrandt, and van Gogh all featuring.

Sculptures, graphic art, paintings and more can be found in its beautiful galleries; various sections look at themes and epochs such as the Renaissance, the Dutch Golden Age, and Byzantine art.

Among the many highlights are the clownish characters which can be found in Cezanne’s Fastnacht (Mardi Gras) and the twirling ballerinas who look so elegant in Degas’ Blue Dancers. Picasso’s Young acrobat on a Ball is also well worth checking out for its interesting use of shapes and colors.

9. Christ The Savior Cathedral

This gorgeous Russian Orthodox cathedral is located on the banks of the Moskva River, just a stone’s throw away from the Kremlin.

The church as it stands today was consecrated in 2000, as the original church that stood here was destroyed on the command of Josef Stalin in 1931 due to the anti-religious campaign.

With its delightful golden dome, spires and dazzling white facades, the Christ the Savior Cathedral is stunning. The interior is just as captivating to wander around, with its beautifully tiled floors and impressive altar.

8. Lenin Mausoleum

Opened to the public in 1924, Lenin’s Mausoleum is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Moscow. The red granite structure is located at the heart of the city in Red Square.

Lenin’s embalmed body lies in a glass sarcophagus; it is a somewhat eerie experience walking past the former leader of the Soviet Union but is well worth doing as you understandably can’t do it anywhere else in the world.

After visiting the mausoleum, head to the Kremlin wall right next to it for more graves of important communist figures such as Stalin and Brezhnev.

7. Tretyakov Gallery

Home to the most extensive and impressive collection of Russian fine art in the world, the State Tretyakov Gallery is definitely worth visiting when in Moscow for the wealth of amazing art pieces that it has on display.

Having started out as the private art collection of the Tretyakov brothers, there are now over 130,000 exhibits. Highlights include the iconic Theotokos of Vladimir which you will almost certainly recognise despite probably not knowing the name and Rublev’s Trinity which is considered to be one of highest achievements in Russian art.

An absolute must for art lovers, the State Tretyakov Gallery will delight visitors with all that is has to offer.

6. Kolomenskoye

Once a royal estate, Kolomenskoye is now a museum-reserve and lies a few kilometers outside of the city center. A captivating place to visit, there is a plethora of history on show and the site overlooks the Moskva River.

Consisting of four historical sites, there are extensive gardens for visitors to explore, as well as loads of interesting old buildings, the former village of Kolomenskoye itself and the impressive Palace of the Tsar Alexey Mikhailovich – once considered the Eighth Wonder of the World by contemporaries.

Among the many stunning sights, it is the brilliantly white Ascension Church that is the undoubted highlight – dating back to 1532.

5. Gorky Park

Lying alongside the Moskva River, the huge Gorky Park is a lovely place to visit. Its extensive gardens are home to numerous cultural institutions and visitors should definitely check out the Garage Museum of Contemporary Art and while the eclectic exhibits may not always feature such incredible sights as a balloon-covered rider on a zebra; they certainly always succeed in pushing back the boundaries of art.

Pop-up exhibitions and festivals can be found from time to time in the park itself and there is an open-air theatre and numerous eateries alongside a plethora of leisure activities.

Whether it’s cycling, table tennis or yoga that you are after or beach volleyball and rowing, Gorky Park certainly has it. In winter, there is a huge ice rink for visitors to enjoy.

4. Bolshoi Theatre

The Bolshoi Theatre is the main theater in the country. The amazing opera and ballet performances it has put on over the centuries go a long way in explaining Russia’s rich history of performing arts.

While the Bolshoi Ballet Company was established in 1776, the theater itself was opened in 1825. The glittering, six-tier auditorium is lavishly and decadently decorated; it is a fitting setting for the world-class performances that take place on its stage.

Spending a night watching a performance of such classics as The Nutcracker or Swan Lake at the Bolshoi Theatre is sure to be a memorable experience and the beauty all around you only adds to the sense of occasion.

3. Moscow Kremlin

This famously fortified complex is remarkably home to five palaces and four cathedrals and is the historic, political and spiritual center of the city. The Kremlin serves as the residence for the country’s president. It has been used as a fort, and this fact is made clear by its sheer size. The Kremlin’s outer walls were built in the late 1400s.

Under Ivan III, better known as Ivan the Great, the Kremlin became the center of a unified Russian state, and was extensively remodeled. Three of the Kremlin’s cathedrals date to his reign that lasted from 1462-1505. The Deposition Church and the Palace of Facets were also constructed during this time. The Ivan the Great Bell Tower was built in 1508. It is the tallest tower at the Kremlin with a height of 266 feet (81 meters).

Joseph Stalin removed many of the relics from the tsarist regimes. However, the Tsar Bell, the world’s largest bell, and the Tsar Cannon, the largest bombard by caliber in the world, are among the remaining items from that era. The Kremlin Armory is one of Moscow’s oldest museums as it was established more than 200 years ago. Its diamond collection is impressive.

The Kremlin’s gardens – Taynitsky, Grand Kremlin Public and Alexander – are beautiful. The Kremlin has also served as the religious center of the country, and there is a tremendous number of preserved churches and cathedrals here. The collections contained within the museums include more than 60,000 historical, cultural and artistic monuments. Those who enjoy the performing arts will want to consider attending a ballet or concert at the State Kremlin Palace. Completed in 1961, it is the only modern building in the Kremlin.

2. Red Square

Lying at the heart of Moscow, Red Square is the most important and impressive square in the city. It is one of the most popular tourist attractions due to its wealth of historical sights and cultural landmarks.

Drenched in history, the huge square is home to incredible sights such as the Kremlin, St. Basil’s Cathedral and Lenin’s Mausoleum, among others. Consequently, it is not to be missed when in Moscow as it really is home to the city’s most stunning monuments.

It is here that many important moments in Russian history took place; the former marketplace has hosted everything from Tsar’s coronations and public ceremonies to rock concerts and Soviet military parades. Wandering around the massive square is a humbling experience and undoubtedly one of the highlights the city has to offer.

1. Saint Basil’s Cathedral

Located in the impressive Red Square, St. Basil’s Cathedral is gorgeous; its delightful spires appear as if out of a fairytale. The most recognizable building in the country, the cathedral is very much a symbol of Russia. No visit to Moscow is complete without having taken in its unique and distinctive features.

Ivan the Terrible ordered the cathedral’s construction in the mid-16th century, and legend holds that Ivan put out the architect’s eyes so that he would be unable to build another cathedral more glorious than St. Basil’s. Designed to resemble the shape of a bonfire in full flame, the architecture is not only unique to the period in which it was built but to any subsequent period. For various reasons, both Napoleon and Stalin wanted to destroy the cathedral but fortunately did not succeed.

Known for its various colors, shapes and geometric patterns, St. Basil’s Cathedral houses nine different chapels that are all connected by a winding labyrinth of corridors and stairways. On the lower floor, St. Basil’s Chapel contains a silver casket bearing the body of St. Basil the Blessed.

Throughout the cathedral are many beautiful murals, frescoes, wooden icons and other art works and artifacts. Outside the cathedral is a lovely garden with the bronze Monument to Minin and Pozharsky, who rallied an all-volunteer Russian army against Polish invaders during a period of the late 16th century known as the Times of Troubles.

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50+ Essential Places To Eat In Raleigh, NC (inside the beltline)

L ooking for the best places to eat in Raleigh? Look no further. Whether you’re currently in Raleigh and searching for places to eat near me or planning to visit Raleigh soon, we’ve got you covered no matter your food of choice!

Since first moving to Raleigh in 2004, the Raleigh food scene has exploded and just gets better and continues to gain in prominence compared to other Southern foodie cities like Charleston, Nashville and Atlanta. 

The downtown Raleigh area is also thriving and is our favorite area to eat, drink and play, and this post is going to focus on the best restaurants in Raleigh inside the beltline (I-440).

When you visit Raleigh and stay in one of the city center Raleigh hotels , downtown is where you’ll find innovative new restaurants, old school staples, community food halls, hopping breweries , and the best coffee shops.

Down below we have recommendations on the top places to eat in Raleigh broken up into categories such as; old school Raleigh, burgers, BBQ, Southern/American, pizza, seafood, Italian, vegetarian, Mexican, fine dining, breweries, bakeries, and much more.

With that being said, there are so many good places to eat in Raleigh, North Carolina, and below is your local restaurants bucket list for culinary delight.

Old School Raleigh

Southern / american, vegetarian / vegan, fine dining, breweries & bars, asian , mediterranean, sweet tooth, more raleigh tips, big ed’s city market restaurant.

Looking for the best breakfast in Raleigh , Southern style? Look no further than Big Ed’s City Market Restaurant in the historic City Market near Moore Square. Founded in 1958, at Big Ed’s you will get a taste of real Southern comfort and hospitality in a 170-seat restaurant.

What you can expect:

Food like what grandma used to make. Home cooked Southern breakfast and lunch plates in a laid-back cafe with funky antiques hanging from the old rafters. This is old Raleigh charm, personable and attentive service, Southern hospitality at its finest. 

Popular items:

Their huge hot cakes. They have a “ hot cake challenge ” – if you eat it in 45-minutes or less you get a free t-shirt! Also country ham and biscuits to die for, aged ribeye, pork loin, the sweet tea, and the peach cobbler. 

One of the classic downtown Raleigh restaurants perfect for everyone! 

See our full review of Big Eds Raleigh here.

• Address: 220 Wolfe St, Raleigh
• Website: Bigedsnc.com

Hayes Barton Cafe & Dessertery

A classic Raleigh staple located in the historic Five Points neighborhood. Hayes Barton is still locally owned and one of the must eat places in Raleigh – loyal fans flock here for their HUGE and delicious cakes! This cafe is a real throwback to a classic diner including photos of old celebrities and world war II soldiers and sailors.

Great comfort food and amazing desserts. A feeling like you’re stepping back in time. A cozy 50’s diner with a fun, friendly ambiance and quaint neighborhood feel. 

Their massive CAKES  – each slice a mountain of decadence and big enough to share with 2 – 4 people. The chicken pot pie is highly regarded, so is the meatloaf. The specials. The milkshakes!

Reservations recommended for dinner – you need to have 4 or more people to reserve a table. A must go when visiting Raleigh.

• Address: 2000 Fairview Road, Raleigh
• Website: Hayesbartoncafeanddessertery.com

Talking of old school Raleigh, The Mecca is the oldest of the restaurants in Raleigh and was founded by Greek immigrants in 1930. With classic décor and a comfortably familiar menu, this family-owned mainstay serving Southern comfort food is a local institution. 

Historic setting that oozes nostalgia with red stools along a long counter, a black and white checkered floor, and heavy wooden booths. 

It’s a quaint little diner with polite service and large servings of inexpensive traditional Southern favorites for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Fried chicken with collards, rice and gravy. Fried catfish with coleslaw. Chopped BBQ plate. Double-decker club sandwich. The Garry Dorn burger (a veal cutlet sandwich). The Greek salad.

This is a classic downtown hangout to experience “Raleigh of Old”. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time here. A must eat once of the Raleigh restaurants!

• Address: 13 E. Martin St., Raleigh
• Website: Mecca-restaurant.com

The Players Retreat 

The Players Retreat, or PR as the locals call it, is one of the storied sports bars in Raleigh and a true landmark . Established in 1951, it’s the oldest continuously operating tavern between Atlanta and Washington D.C.

Located in a prime location right near NC State University’s north campus off Hillsborough st, this place is a tradition with NC State students and alumni, but you’ll also find an eclectic mix of people.

The kind of local neighborhood bar I like to find when we travel. Old school sports bar with booths and bar stools, tables on the sidewalk, pool tables and lots of TV screens for sports. 

A focus on hamburgers and sandwiches , lots of great craft beers (local and from afar) and a bar boasting the largest collection of single malts in North Carolina. 

Bernie and Hawaiian Burgers (all meat is ground in house and made fresh daily). Turkey club, chicken parmesan sub, fried oysters, cheese fries, potato skins and buffalo wings. Oh, and the scotch selection! 

Player Retreat is a fun place to come with a group of friends, unwind after work or hang out at night. 

• Address: 105 Oberlin Road, Raleigh
• Website: Playersretreat.net

State Farmers Market Restaurant

For another good old country breakfast place in Raleigh downtown, head to the State Farmers Market Restaurant which was originally opened by Jackie Watkins, son of “Big Ed” Watkins, founder of Big Ed’s – do you see a theme here! 

Smorgasbord of choices of traditional Southern breakfast and lunch favorites – large portions at a good price. A bright space with indoor and outdoor tables with checkered vinyl tablecloths, waitstaff in overalls, and you’re just steps away from the permanent farmers market.

Real fluffy buttermilk biscuits, huge chocolate chip pancakes, country fried steak, bacon. Just like Big Ed’s this is like being at grandma’s. Gets especially busy on the weekends – get up early to beat the crowds. 

• Address: 1240 Farmer’s Market Dr. Raleigh
• Website: Realbiscuits.com

I don’t even know where to start describing this place, so let me start here. If you’re looking for just one new downtown Raleigh Restaurant to try, go here. Stanbury is my new favorite restaurant in Raleigh, hands down!

Our foodie friends who live near the restaurant have been recommending this place forever and we finally went for our anniversary dinner in April and we can’t stop talking about it. Stanbury specializes in modern American cuisine and it is such a quirky and interesting space, and the food, atmosphere, and service is outstanding!

The menu is eclectic and adventurous and this is the perfect place to order a bunch of shared small plates and try various dishes. But their large plates are exceptional too if you want something for yourself. My photos do not do this place justice!

The ribeye is probably the best ribeye I have ever had , better than all steak houses, and the mashed potatoes were incredible – I don’t know what they do with their food, but keep doing it. 

The menu changes almost daily, with a few staple menu items, and they update it on their Instagram and Facebook accounts.I loved the open kitchen concept, there’s a great selection of beverages plus craft cocktails.

NOTE: no reservations and this place is popular. We arrived close to opening time and were seated within 15-20 minutes but they have a nice bar and space out front for pre-dinner drinks and small-plates whilst you wait!!

• Address: 938 N Blount St, Raleigh
• Website: StanburyRaleigh.com

Parkside Restaurant

Located across from historic Nash Square and on the edge of the Warehouse District is Parkside , a retro-industrial restaurant serving traditional American comfort food the locals love!

Delicious and filling Southern dishes, variety of choices to suit all taste buds, and prices hard to beat for the quality. There’s character and charm, from the warm red brick and reclaimed barn wood clad bar, to the personable service. 

And you can wash your meal down with one of the 25+ draft beers or one of their nice cocktails!

Popular items: 

Lunch: Chicken and Waffle Sandwich. The Parkside Burger. Dinner: Prime Rib. And check out their popular brunch menu. 

• Address: 301 West Martin Street, Raleigh
• Website: ParksideRaleigh.com

Capital Club 16

Well known as one of the best brunch in Raleigh and their European-inspired cuisine, Capital Club 16 is located conveniently downtown in a Depression-era landmark building. Serving up traditional American fare, it might be small in size but big on character and charm.

Traditional and creative dishes featuring seasonal and local ingredients, a German flair , and good vegetarian options. An inviting space full of charm and personable service, and lots of natural lighting. Rotating German and local draft beers and really good cocktails. 

Their brunch, period. Curryworst appetizer. Farmhouse Cheese Board. Club burger. Bavarian Sausage Platter. Schnitzel sandwich. Farmer’s Market Veggie Rice Bowl.

Great choice for lunch or dinner downtown. And an idyllic brunch experience!

• Address: 16 W Martin St, Raleigh
• Website: CapitalClub16.com

Poole’s Diner

Ashley Christensen’s first Raleigh restaurant, Poole’s has become a well-known modern diner with retro-chic charm serving seasonal comfort food, cocktails and house desserts. The Macaroni au gratin (pictured above) is one of the most famous dishes in Raleigh.

Small menu written on a chalkboard with classic American seasonal comfort foods . Informal, cool, good vibe and atmosphere. Cool bar reminiscent of an old soda fountain. Locally sourced farm-to-table offerings. Popular brunch Saturday and Sunday. 

Macaroni au gratin (their take on mc n cheese). Rotating menu with new imaginative options daily. No reservations, first-come, first-served. A popular spot for locals and those visiting Raleigh.

• Address: 426 S. McDowell St, Raleigh
• Website: ac-restaurants.com/pooles

Whiskey Kitchen

One of our favorite bars in Raleigh that also does excellent and inventive Southern food in a great location on the edge of the Warehouse District across from Nash Square.

Whiskey Kitche n is part whiskey bar, part Southern kitchen that features a beautiful open space and hip venue with over 300 whiskies and craft cocktails.

A repurposed industrial feel and an inviting decor and atmosphere. Inside are tables, couches and bar seats – you can’t miss the impressive mural behind the bar. 

There’s a garage door that opens in the summer and the outside patio is great and super popular in the warmer months, and heated lamps for the chilly weather. 

Large selection of whiskeys, try a whiskey flight, but also great beer options, wine and cocktails.

Pickle jar, fried brussels, crispy broccoli, fried chicken sandwich, lamb burger, shrimp n’ grits pork BBQ sandwich, banana pudding. A fun place for couples or with a group of friends.

• Address: 201 W Martin St, Raleigh
• Website: Whiskey.Kitchen

Beasley’s Chicken + Honey

Every time we drive or walk past Beasley’s Chicken + Honey there’s usually a line up out the door. That has to tell you something. Yep, it’s one of the most popular downtown Raleigh restaurants by famed Ashley Christensen, and is a great place for brunch, lunch, and dinner.

Well, fried chicken of course, but also biscuits and gravy, sandwiches, bar snacks, desserts, beer, wine, and champagne.

Fried quarter chicken, chicken biscuits, fried chicken and waffles, pimento cheese and fried bologna starters, their southern sides. A cool place to introduce a friend to southern food.

• Website: ac-restaurants.com/beasleys

Oakwood Pizza Box 

Is this the best pizza in Raleigh? Locals in the know and re-locators from New York will direct you to Oakwood Pizza Box who recommend their pizza over any other in Raleigh. It’s so good, they say, that their pepperoni pizza is like Grimaldi’s of Brooklyn, NY. 

Real New York-style pizza , it’s run by a New York native. A simple menu with three basic pizza pies; cheese, square, white, each 18″ in diameter, and you can build on those with extra ingredients, at $2 each. Or, you can order just a slice of pizza heaven.

Small and cozy with atmosphere. There’s some booths, high-top tables and a counter/bar.

The homemade sauce. Their sausage, plus all the variety of toppings you can add. Their combo special: 18″ pizza + 6 pack of beer. Decent salad. Good beer and wine offerings. 

• Address: 610 N Person St, Raleigh
• Website: Oakwoodpizzabox.com

Lilly’s Pizza

Fantastic local pizza joint located off of Glenwood Avenue in Historic Five Points, Lilly’s serves up delicious pizzas using only the most natural, local, and organic foods available. Their dough contains only 100% Certified Organic and Kosher stone-milled, whole-wheat, flour from Lindley Mills, Graham, NC. 

What you can expect:  

Thick crust. Cozy and unique atmosphere. Organic ingredients. For carnivores, enjoy select cuts of the finest meats available. Vegetarian and vegan diets are in luck with their large amount of healthy vegetables on the menu. 

Terrific gluten free base s. Large selection of great salads.

Dante’s Inferno, Super Duper, The Buddha, The Gus. 

• Address: 1813 Glenwood Avenue, Raleigh
• Website: lillyspizza.com

Frank’s Pizza & Italian Restaurant

Pay a visit to Frank’s Pizza, a family owned and operated pizza joint that has been one of Southeast Raleigh’s best known secrets for more than 30 years serving up some of the best authentic pizzas in the city.

Located conveniently off New Bern Rd in a strip mall, this not-so-fancy family-style pizza place is a hidden gem and cherished among the locals.

Specialty pizzas using homemade thin crust baked to perfection, NY style . Fresh ingredients, the cheese is gooey, amazing tomato sauce, big slices, old wood decor, family atmosphere, welcoming staff. Also serves pastas and Italian specialties, sandwiches, salads. Kids menu. 

Rio Ranch. Pepperoni pizza. The meatballs. Steak and cheese hoagie . Even the wings. 

• Address: 2030 New Bern Avenue, Raleigh
• Website: Frankspizzaraleigh.com

Poole’side Pies

Ashley Christensen’s take on Neapolitan-style pizza, Poole’side Pies is right next door to Poole’s Diner.  Neapolitan style means a thin crust that’s a little flimsy in the middle. The pies here consistently rank as the best Neapolitan style pizzas in Raleigh.

The interior theme is swimming pool-inspired (hence the name) like the lanes on the floor, the neon sign. It’s bright and cheery with music playing. Exceptional service and pizzas big enough to share. No gluten free pizza bases. No separate kids menu. 

The Duke Tomato pizza, pork fennel sausage pizza, the margherita, buttermilk basil dipping sauce, pickle juice Caesar salad.

• Website: ac-restaurant.com/pooleside

Trophy Brewing & Pizza

Who doesn’t like a pizza and beer combo? So for a good slice of pizza washed down with some of the best craft beers in Raleigh , it’s hard to go past Trophy Brewing & Pizza.

Locally owned and located right on the edge of downtown on W. Morgan St. and within an easy walk of the popular Warehouse and Glenwood South Districts, this place has a real neighborhood feel. 

Thin crust and creative, specialty pizzas with delightful combinations of flavors of sauce, cheese, and bread. Build your own pizza options, generous sized salads, their owned brewed beer, plus cocktails and wine.

Limited indoor seating with most of their seating outdoors on their cozy patio (heated in winter), and a low-key vibe.

The Daredevil (spicy), lamb sausage & we found it on a pizza. Consider getting small pizzas to share on your first visit to taste test a few. But if you’re really hungry, go a large! 

• Address: 827 W Morgan St, Raleigh
• Website: Trophybrewing.com

The Pit Authentic Barbecue

As mentioned, North Carolina is a BBQ state and you might have to loosen your belt at Th e Pit, who proudly serves authentic whole-hog, pit-cooked Eastern-style barbecue . Pus all the traditional Southern sides from collards to coleslaw. 

Smart-casual setting, enjoyable atmosphere, clean and comfortable environment, fast and friendly service in a great Warehouse District location! 

Beef Brisket, Baby Back Ribs, Southern Fried Chicken, the Big Boy Burger, Pimento Cheese Balls, Heirloom Cabbage Collards. They serve biscuits and hushpuppies with the meal.

Prices are fair, and there’s a good beer list. Definitely one of the best BBQ restaurants in Raleigh

• Address: 328 W Davie St, Raleigh
• Website: ThePit-Raleigh.com

Clyde Cooper’s BBQ

BBQ is a tradition in North Carolina, and if BBQ is your thing Clyde Cooper’s, which opened in 1938, is one of the longest-running barbecue restaurants in NC and beloved by locals. And If something has been around since 1938, they must be doing something right. 

A downtown Raleigh staple in a square room with counter seats, booths and tables. A casual and relaxed atmosphere. Good size portions for the money. 

Brisket, ribs, pulled pork, fried chicken. They say it’s the best BBQ in downtown Raleigh for the price. Come taste a Raleigh staple for yourself

• Address: 327 S Wilmington St, Raleigh
• Website: Clydecoopersbbq.com

Looking for more BBQ places? Check out our list of the best BBQ in Raleigh .

VIDEO: Clyde Cooper’s BBQ

Mojoe’s burger joint.

Craving a burger? Head to MoJoe’s, a classic neighborhood burger joint serving some of the best burgers in Raleigh. This is quintessential old Raleigh. Come here for a diverse crowd, fun atmosphere, and nice patio area for year round seating. 

Hand made patties. Choose from a 6 ounce, 10 ounce, or “Hall of Fame” one pounder. (GF buns available). 12 local beers and a kids menu.

Ranchero Burger. Build your own burger (plenty of options and combinations). Bean Burger. Fried pickles.Their ranch for dipping fries or chips.

• Address: 620 Glenwood Avenue, Raleigh
• Website: Mojoesburgerjoint.com

It doesn’t get much more Raleigh than Char-Grill , think local version of Shake Shack. Char Grill is a local fast-food chain that’s been serving charcoal-grilled burgers fresh off the grill since 1959. It’s one of our go-to places to eat in Raleigh to grab a quick burger, and our kids love their shakes and fries!

Taking a trip down memory lane at a fun burger joint with a true old fashioned feel. Just placing your order is a part of the experience – you fill out a paper order sheet with a pencil and wait while your food is cooked to order. 

Burgers, hot dogs, fries and shakes. It’s that simple folks. The menu might be simple, but simple is often best! It does get crowded around lunch time – great for late night munchies too.

• Address: 618 Hillsborough St, Raleigh
• Website: Chargrillusa.com

CowBar Burgers & Fries

When we visit Morgan Street Food Hall, more often than not we’re ordering one of the delicious burgers from CowBar, one of our favorite burger places in Raleigh. Love that they’re a small local business. My favorite is the Southern Classic (pictured above).

Big and tasty southern burgers, quality patties, made fresh to order. Lettuce wraps for those avoiding gluten. Something for everyone in a trendy urban food hall. Probably the best vegan burger in Raleigh.

Truffle Burger and Truffle fries. Southern Classic. Vegan Stacker.

• Address: 411 W. Morgan St, Raleigh
• Website: CowBarBurger.com

Pit Authentic BBQ – Big Boy Burger

Ok, here is another worthy mention of The Pit Authentic Barbecue joint just because of their signature burger. When you eat here, don’t miss their Big Boy Burger!

Two house-ground brisket patties, western BBQ sauce, brisket, pulled pork, pimento cheese, lettuce, tomatoe, and onion straws. Amazingly big and tasty! I changed out the pulled pork for pulled turkey!

Bad Daddy’s Burger Bar

Craving a burger with attitude? Bad Daddy’s has MASSIVE and tasty burgers with gourmet toppings and hand-cut fries, amazing fried pickles, cool decor and friendly staff. 

Yeah it’s a chain, but at least it originates from NC (Charlotte) and Bad Daddy’s commit to sourcing local and fresh ingredients whenever possible.

Huge burgers. Hand cut fries with a special house bbq sauce that is to die for. Or sweet potato fries. Great non-meat options too, And gluten-free buns or sturdy lettuce wraps. Plus a good selection of local NC beers. Family-friendly (cheap kids menu). 

Bacon cheeseburger on steroids. Build your own burgers (so many ingredients to choose from). Fried pickles. Build your own salads!

• Address:  111 Seaboard Ave, Raleigh
• Website: Baddaddysburger.com

More Burger Options:

I also love the burgers at Parkside Restaurant, Raleigh Times Bar, and Mama Crow’s does a good burger as well at Transfer Co. Food Hall. And the lamb burger at Whiskey Kitchen is really good too (see Mediterranean section below).

Fiction Kitchen

Vegans, vegetarians and food-curious omnivores, if you’re searching for vegetarian restaurants in Raleigh don’t miss Fiction Kitchen. It’s one of the best restaurants in Raleigh downtown. Always packed with locals and visitors in the know, it’s that popular! 

Thoughtfully prepared vegan and vegetarian cuisine from a 100% vegetarian kitchen . High quality local ingredients, a colorful and flavorful menu. Funky decor, the experience, and quality service!

Vegan BBQ, Crispy Fried Chicken and Waffles. Actually, everything. No reservations, fills up quickly, but worth the wait. 

• Address: 428 S. Dawson St, Raleigh
• Website: TheFictionKitchen.com

Irregardless Cafe

We love Irregardless. Could also go in the ‘old school Raleigh’ category as it’s been a Raleigh staple for decades being established in 1975 as the city’s first vegetarian restaurant.

But, it also offers meat and seafood dishes and a kids menu , something for everyone – there’s a strong sense of bringing the whole community to the table here!

So for all you vegetarians/vegans out there, this a great place to go with your meat eating friends!

Healthy and innovative meals and good portions. A warm and fun atmosphere. Artsy and eclectic decor is quite interesting.

Attentive, knowledgeable and friendly staff. And the live music in the background that’s not too loud adds ambience. There’s also a cool little bar tucked away in the back.

One of the most popular brunch spots in Raleigh. The complimentary bread and scones. Vegan Nachos. Vegan desserts – the cheesecake is awesome. Poblano pepper dish. 

• Address: 901 W. Morgan St, Raleigh
• Website: Irregardless.com

Second Empire Restaurant & Tavern

For an incredible dining experience, look no further than Second Empire Restaurant & Tavern, consistently ranked one of the best restaurants in Raleigh for fine dining.

This downtown Raleigh restaurant is a recipient of the AAA Four Diamond Award. It’s an elegant American restaurant set in a historic, circa-1879 Second Empire house that speaks to the original character of the city. 

Spectacular service and presentation, intimate and magical ambiance, old fashioned architecture and history, and gourmet cuisine. 

There’s the main dining room upstairs, then a more-casual tavern and bar downstairs that still feels classy. Truly a foodie experience for a special occasion. 

Empire Seafood Paella, Grilled Australian Lamb Rack, Roasted Five Spice Pennsylvania Duck Breast, Grilled Chilean Verlasso Salmon, Empire Chocolate Souffle. Reservations recommended. 

• Address: 330 Hillsborough Street, Raleigh
• Website: Second-Empire.com

Crawford & Son

A casual and cozy neighborhood restaurant in Historic Oakwood, Crawford & Son serves some of the best food in Raleigh that ranges from the familiar to the unexpected.

Known as one of the best restaurants in Raleigh NC for outstanding service, ambiance, food presentation, and craft cocktails.

Thoughtful menu, attentive service, delicious food with creative flair and attention to detail, nice ambiance, fun cocktails.

Warm Malted Wheat Rolls. Beef Short Rib. Peaches Cobbler. This is definitely one of the best Raleigh restaurants downtown.

• Address: 618 N. Person St, Raleigh
• Website: Crawfordandsonrestaurant.com

Death & Taxes

Looking for other fine dining restaurants in Raleigh? Death and Taxes is located in an elegant building in downtown Raleigh that was once a mortuary and a tax office (hence the name).

This restaurant features an open kitchen with an emphasis on wood-fired fare with Southern ingredients from chef Ashley Christensen (a James Beard Award winning local chef). 

Intimacy, a beautifully elegant and comfortable space without being too loud, and impeccable service. Incredible food and extensive wine and drink list. 

Roasted Oysters, North Carolina fish, Grilled Octopus. Absolutely one of the best restaurants in Raleigh for a date night. Reservations recommended. 

• Website: ac-restaurants.com/death-taxes

There are plenty of awesome breweries in Raleigh (and bars), and whilst they all have good beer, not many of them serve great food or have a full-kitchen Here is a select few.

Wye Hill Kitchen & Brewing

Come for their refreshing brews and unique and creative food options, and then stay for the incredible views of the downtown Raleigh skyline. 

Besides the drinks, Wye Hill Kitchen & Brewing is our favorite brewery to eat at. Their food is next level and some of the best we’ve eaten in the city. 

Delicious and innovative meals with a healthy twist, an amazing outdoor patio area (covered) with spectacular elevated views of downtown.

Refreshing craft beers, signature cocktails, wine. Casual fun atmosphere perfect for a group of friends or a date. There’s also indoor seating, lounge area, plus a bar. Wonderful owners and courteous staff. 

Roasted Beet Hummus, Deviled Eggs, their Burgers (made with a premium blend of chuck and short rib), Virtual Insanity IPA. Vegan options and kids menu.

Read our full review of Wye Hill Kitchen & Brewing .

• Address: 201 S Boylan Ave, Raleigh
• Website: Wyehill.com

The Raleigh Times

A timeless watering hole named after the former newspaper that occupied this 100 year old building, The Raleigh Times has multiple levels and an open rooftop. Probably the most famous of bars in Raleigh – even Obama had a campaign beer here – they serve up quality American pub grub.

Historic building vibes and memorabilia, quality bar food, good burgers – they make their patties from scratch, great sandwiches. Great selection of local craft beers and Belgian beers. 

The Raleigh Times Burger (made with the highest quality chuck ground in-house every day, the Nachos, Far East Reuben, fried Pickles, Cobb salad. Quality breakfast options too (great pancakes and French toast). 

• Address: 14 E Hargett St, Raleigh
• Website: Raleightimesbar.com

42nd St. Oyster Bar & Seafood Grill

If you love seafood, atmosphere, and good service this is a Raleigh landmark. The 42nd St. Oyster Bar has been a Southern Seafood tradition since 1931 and is one of the most popular and famous places to eat in Raleigh downtown.

Classic charm (white table clothes, checkerboard floors, metal bar stool chairs around the oyster bar) at a landmark seafood restaurant and raw bar dating back to 1931. 

Oyster bar with great oysters. Plus ried seafood, fun atmosphere and exceptional service. Really good Bloody Mary’s and NC draft beers. Live music on Fridays and Saturdays. Good choices for non-seafood eaters. 

Pimento Cheese Oysters. Baked Crab Artichoke Dip. Buffalo Shrimp & Grits. Clam Chouder. The complimentary Hushpuppies. The desserts. 

• Address: 508 West Jones Street, Raleigh
• Website: 42ndstoysterbar.com

Jack’s Seafood & Soul Food Restaurant

Looks rundown and like a no-frills hole-in-the wall type restaurant, but Jack’s Seafood & Soul Food has been serving fried seafood and soul food to happy locals and visitors for years.

They specialize in delicious and reasonably-priced fried seafood and good old Southern country cooking, simple menu but to the point. Food is made-to-order with large portions and good prices. Call in your order for expedited service.

Fried catfish plate. Fried okra, Fried chicken. Shrimp burgers. Sweet potato pie. The Lemonade

• Address: 5416 Rock Quarry Rd, Raleigh
• Website: JacksSeafoodAndSoulFood.com

Looking for delicious Italian restaurants in Raleigh? Cafe Luna has been serving Tuscan-accented Italian fare in an airy, art-filled space since 1996. It’s not just the authentic cuisine that will transport you to Italy, but also the original artwork hanging on the walls.

Excellent Italian food with quality ingredients and generous portions, friendly atmosphere, wonderful service and owners. Great wine selection. Complimentary bread with nice olive oil for dipping. Reasonably priced. Fantastic location downtown, 

Pretty much everything on the menu is well prepared and flavorful. The pasta dishes (GF options), The Lasagne, The Veal, Calamari Fritti, The Cheesecake. Dinner reservations recommended on weekends. Great spot for a date, business meeting, or family dinner. 

• Address: 136 East Hargett St, Raleigh
• Website: Cafeluna.com

We didn’t pay any attention to Gravy initially because we had no idea that ‘gravy’ refers to Italian pasta sauce. We thought it was another meat based/Southern restaurant. 

Turns out, Gravy is one of the best Italian restaurants in Raleigh downtown, and it’s a warm and inviting place with a super cozy courtyard in a prime location!

Authentic and traditional Italian-American dishes and prepare their signature gravy (hearty tomato sauce) fresh daily. There’s a focus on using seasonal ingredients, putting a modern twist on classic dishes, and providing a warm, friendly and comfortable atmosphere. Gluten free options. 

Risotto balls, the lasagne, the gnocchi, Tagliatelle Bolognese, chicken parmigiana, eggplant pie, Tuscany red wine,

• Address: 135 S Wilmington St
• Website: GravyRaleigh.com

Vic’s Italian Restaurant and Pizzeria

Local and family-owned by real Italians, Vic’s serves authentic Italian cuisine and New York style pizza and a wide variety of delicious pastas and entrees in healthy portions. 

Owner Mario has been serving guests his family recipes for nearly 30 years, and in 1998 opened Vic’s in Downtown Raleigh’s Historic City Market.

Wide array of choices using fresh and local ingredients. Lunch and dinner specials that change daily. Generous size pasta portions and reasonable prices. A family-friendly restaurant and a warm and familiar atmosphere loved by locals and visitors. Friendly and efficient service.

Their specialty pizzas. Penne Alla Vodka. Calzones. Complimentary garlic knots.

• Address : 331 Blake Street, Raleigh
• Website: Vicsitalianrestaurant.com 

Modern Mexican food right in the heart of downtown Raleigh, Centro utilizes organic and local ingredients in flavorful ways in an energetic setting.

Original and creative options at reasonable prices. Craft tequila cocktails. Funky little place with a laid back Mexican vibe and atmosphere. Friendly and courteous staff.

You can’t can’t go wrong with any of their tacos. Excellent salsa. The torta. The habanero house made hot sauce. Their vast lunch menu with many items under $10. Saturday brunch. Reservations recommended for dinner on weekends. 

• Address: 106 S Wilmington St
• Website: CentroRaleigh.com

Gonza Tacos y Tequila

Great location on Hillsborough Street across from NC State University Gonza Tacos y Tequila features Colombian-Mexican cuisine, hand crafted Latin cocktails, an extensive variety of tequilas and regional spirits, and a carefully selected list of Latin wines and beers.

This place has a fun, upbeat atmosphere and vibe with music, excellent service, and the decor is cool with lanterns that make for a unique ambiance – great for friends and fun date nights, but we bring our kids here also.

Popular dishes include the El plátano, beef short rib, the fajitas, the burritos, Talega Del Platano, the tacos, the Mexican flag, and delicious Margaritas.

When the weather is nice outside they open up the windows so try and grab a table by the sidewalk for a nice indoor/outdoor experience.

• Address: 2100 Hillsborough St UNIT 110, Raleigh
• Website: GonzaTacosyTequila.com

Gringo A Go Go

Gringo A Go Go is another of the popular Mexican restaurants in Raleigh and with their colorful outdoor patio area and real Mexican food (plus many vegan options) it’s easy to understand why!

This low-key authentic Mexican Restaurant has a lovely neighborhood atmosphere in the heart of downtown Raleigh with a highlight being the outdoor patio surrounded by plants making for a fun place to eat and converse.

Popular menu items include the tacos, chorizo cheese dip, quesadillas, guacamole ed chilaquiles with carnitas, spinach empanadas, delicious vegetarian and vegan options, great margaritas and full bar including Mezcal. Read our review of their brunch.

• Address: 100 N Person St, Raleigh
• Website: GringoRaleigh.com

La Santa Modern Mexican Food

One of the most popular and best Mexican restaurants in Raleigh located in the lively Glenwood South District. La Santa serves up authentic and traditional tasting Mexican food with a fun modern spin. Fresh, flavorful and filling. 

Fun atmosphere and vibe with interesting and colorful decor. Friendly and helpful service, and music that keeps the mood light and energetic. All specials $7 on Monday – Friday from 11:00am – 2:30pm       

Their signature burrito (Burrito Momia – a burrito wrapped with bacon). The guacamole. The ceviche. Queso on the side. Great chips and salsa. Many different margaritas made with fresh fruit.

They also have a dedicated vegan menu. Fun spot to eat with friends or your partner!

• Address: 222 Glenwood Ave, Raleigh
• Website: Lasantanc.com

When you visit North Hills in Midtown Raleigh, don’t miss Bartaco Raleigh for great Mexican!

After traveling through Laos for three weeks, we know Laotian food well and as far as the authentic food quality and ambiance at Bida Manda goes, it is hands down our favorite of the  Asian food restaurants in Raleigh .

Well respected for its authentic Laotian cuisine  and showcasing the culinary traditions of Laos, Bida Manda serves a variety of Lao dishes in a wonderful space with Lao-inspired decor that always takes us back to our time exploring this Southeast Asian country. 

The offerings are as authentic as we’ve had in Raleigh, and one of our favorite dishes in the Triangle area can be found here, and a dish we used to eat almost daily living in Bangkok –  Papaya Salad , with Crispy Dill and Lemongrass Trout.

Appetizers we love include the  Crispy Rice Lettuce Wraps  (hand-tossed crunchy coconut rice with fresh herbs, fried garlic, shallot crisp, peanuts, eggs, lime, and baby romaine lettuce), and the  Crispy Chicken Wings  (six crispy chicken wings served with a choice of three house-made sauces Panang Curry, Hot Sweet Chili, or Lao Spicy Roasted Habañero Peanut.

For another entree suggestion, we keep falling back on is the  Manda Amphone’s Curry with chicken  (slow-cooked house coconut curry with fresh root vegetables, and jasmine rice).

Vegetarian and vegan diners are well catered to, as are gluten free. Bida Manda also offers an impressive drink menu. 

• Address:  222 S Blount St, Raleigh
• Website:  BidaManda.com

Tonbo Ramen

At Tonbo, they do authentic ramen made from scratch . Each bowl is crafted in an open kitchen where you can see them prepare your ramen bowl, and you choose from slow cooked ramen broths including the signature pork bone Tonkostu broth, a light soy Shoyu broth, or a pure vegetarian option broth.

They have a seafood ramen and a “broth-less” dish too! Each bowl is prepared with toppings that pair well with the different ramen noodles and different broths – Berkshire pork belly, dumplings, seafood, and even a fried chicken quarter are some of the toppings available. 

Popular items are the Tonkotsu ramen bowl, the Izakaya Chicken Karage, pork belly buns, soy marinated crispy chicken, and spicy tender miso wings that are grilled over an open flame. For dessert, we have matcha mochi doughnuts.

Plus, upstairs they have a cozy Izakaya (Japanese small plate bar) where they serve craft cocktails, sake, Japanese whiskey, cold beer and even “adult” slushies. The Izakaya menu consists of small plates that are great for sharing.

• Address: 211 S Wilmington St, Raleigh
• Website: TonboRamen.com

One of the top recommended sushi restaurants in Raleigh is Sushi O, conveniently located in the Glenwood South District. Whilst they also serve curries, noodles, soups, and salads, they make excellent sushi. 

Large choice of specialty rolls with amazing flavors plus a menu with Japanese, Thai, Chinese and Vietnamese options. Outstanding presentation, fun atmosphere with music, excellent service, good sake and great mojitos. 

Sushi Bar lunch specials, Crazy Salmon Roll, Spicy Tuna Tigress Roll, Cucumber Special Roll. . Vegetarian Rolls. Bento Box. Miso soup.

• Website: Sushioraleigh.com

Looking for some of the best sushi in Raleigh? The owner (and one of the Chefs) at Sushi Mon has worked at top sushi places in San Francisco and Vegas and this is an “above average” sushi bar, not BOGO sushi, in fact some call it a premium or fine dining sushi bar.

Two large bars (liquor or sushi) you can sit at, or dining tables as well. And with fresh, authentic, and delicious sushi using the best ingredients, coupled with courteous and fast service, Sushi Mon is gaining a growing reputation as one of the best sushi restaurants in Raleigh. 

The Nigiri Omakase, Sashimi plate, their Nigiri menu, the Truffle Tuna Roll, the Ultimate Shrimp & Scallop.

Being relatively new, you could call this place a hidden gem located near NC State’s North Campus off Hillsborough. 

• Address: 3800 Glenwood Ave #100, Raleigh
• Website: Sushimonraleigh.com

Other Sushi restaurants in Raleigh that come highly recommended include O-Ku Sushi and City Market Sushi .

Taverna Agora Greek Kitchen & Bar

For an authentic Greek dining experience that will remind you of your trips to Greece, head to Taverna Agora Greek Kitchen & Bar. Get among the atmosphere and vibe on the lovely rooftop and enjoy hand-crafted cocktails, lunch and dinner, or Sunday brunch. 

Greek and Mediterranean dishes, a Casual and inviting atmosphere, courteous and knowledgeable staff. And one of the best upstairs patio settings in Raleigh for a relaxed view of the city. 

Flambéed Saganaki, Baklava Sticky Buns, Chicken Mykonos, Grecian Grill (meant for a family to share, a mix of Grilled Chicken, Gyro, Meatballs Keftedes, herb-marinated Lamb Chops, Lamb burger. Plus their Sunday brunch menu. 

Read our full review of Taverna Agora Raleigh

• Address: 326 Hillsborough St, Raleigh
• Website: TavernaAgora.com

Neomonde Mediterranean

Lovers of Lebanese and Mediterranean food know where to go in Raleigh, and that’s Neomonde. This cafe that serves Lebanese light fare, fresh breads and other Mediterranean dishes has been a staple for Raleigh locals for years who crave authentic Middle Eastern food.

Tasty organic and locally sourced food and plenty of gluten free and vegan/vegetarian options. Everything is made fresh, large portions, reasonable prices, fast service, personable staff and friendly owners. 

The fresh pita and hummus, the shish kabobs, lots of healthy salads. They also have a great tea selection, and selection of vegan and gluten free products.

There’s also a little Lebanese store attached to buy your favorites to bring home. Neomonde is a must if you’re craving some good Mediterranean food! 

• Address: 3817 Beryl Road, Raleigh
• Website: Neomonde-mediterranean-restaurant-raleigh

This popular Middle Eastern restaurant serves up modern versions of authentic Lebanese dishes in an airy room with a communal table and art deco bar. Located on the corner of Wilmington and Hargett streets in downtown, Sitti’s cuisine is made fresh in house daily, 

Really good Middle Eastern food, with something on the menu for everyone, including vegetarian options and kids menu. An antique Art Deco bar with Lebanese liquors, beer and wine, plus French wines and local craft beers. An upbeat atmosphere.

Great pita’s and dip, hot mezze (kibbeh), house-baked flatbreads, chicken/lamb/beef shawarma, falafel, house-made flatbreads.

• Address: 137 S Wilmington St
• Website: Sitti-raleigh.com

Located in the heart of the entertaining Glenwood South District, Vidrio is a stylish and tapas style Mediterranean restaurant perfect for a date night or large party with plates designed for sharing to provide a full sensory experience.

Known for their beautiful aesthetics and inviting modern ambience, it may feel like you are dining in an art museum with multiple levels and areas for seating. 

You can expect above average service and attention to detail, food that is delicately crafted and flavorful, an expansive menu with lots of vegetarian starters, great drink selections and an award winning wine collection.

Reservations recommended, especially for Friday and Saturday nights.

• 500 Glenwood Ave #100, Raleigh
• VidrioRaleigh.com

Morgan Street Food Hall

We love the concept of a food hall. Similar to a food court with all the choices in one spot, but with higher quality food and ambiance. Morgan Street Food Hall is located in the thriving Warehouse District and the first of its kind in Raleigh, a 22,000 square feet of space inside a repurposed warehouse.

20 different food concepts showcasing local eateries housed in food stalls or free standing kiosks. Lively atmosphere and a popular place for the community to hang out. A fantastic spot for families or groups of friends with different food tastes. 

Popular vendors:

CowBar Burger, Oak City Fish & Chips, Curry in a Hurry, Oak City Fish and Chips. See all vendors here . Mimosa weekends: $15 champagne buckets. 

• Address: 411 West Morgan St
• Website: MorganFoodHall.com

Transfer Co. Food Hall

Housed in the historic Carolina Coach Garage and Shops, Transfer Co. Food Hall is the other of the two food halls in downtown Raleigh. There’s 50,000+ square feet of renovated warehouse space that’s now home to 12+ different vendors and a place for the community to gather through food.

A cool neighborhood vibe in an old warehouse building refitted in modern industrial chic. Inside is bright and open, cozy upper level space, and an outdoor patio. Nice variety of food choices including burgers, seafood, Asian, Italian, Mexican, Bagels, Beer and Wine.

Popular Vendors:

Benchwarmer’s Bagels, Mama Crow’s Burgers, Captain Cookie & The Milkman. See all vendors here . 

• Address: 500 E Davie St, Raleigh
• Website: Transfercofoodhall.com

Boulted Bread

Bread and pastry lovers listen up. Boulted Bread is that chic local neighborhood bakery you’ve been craving that features pastries and loaves of bread made with local, organic grains.

This bakery is a real locals favorite, serving craft bread and pastries ranging from flaky croissants and sweet, fruit-filled tarts to savory breakfast quiches.

Phenomenal artisan bread and sweet and savory pastries created in a bright, rustic bakery that’s small in size but big on quality and run by wonderful people. 

The Morning Bun. Chocolate Croissants. Nordic Rye Bread. And the staff favorite is the Baguette.

• Address: 614 W. South St
• Website: BoultedBread.com

Union Special 

Union Special is a popular full service bakeshop and café in the renovated Gateway Plaza off Capital Blvd. They produce bread, sweet and savory pastries, cookies, and cafe fare.

It’s a bakery but so much more! A evolving cafe menu serving breakfast and lunch, creative sandwiches, vegan options, a kids menu, coffee and even beer. Most dishes are made from scratch. All the flours sourced exclusively from Lindley Mills in Graham, NC

Their top quality daily breads. The Union Egg Sandwich, Blue Corn Cookie, Vegan Sweet Potato Chocolate Chip Cookie.

• Address: 2409 Crabtree Blvd, Raleigh
• Website: Uninospecialbread.com

Yellow Dog Bread Company

Yellow Dog Bread Company is a coffee shop and bakery specializing in handmade artisan breads and southern influenced pastries. 

A small and local neighborhood bakery with fresh baked bread daily, croissants, rolls, sandwiches, cookies, cakes and coffee. A cute seating area to meet with friends.

Their bread. Almond croissants. Cranberry pecan scone. Sticky buns. Maple bacon scones. Crostinis. Chocolate chip scone. Homemade pop tarts. Iced chai vanilla latte.

• Address: 219 East Franklin Street
• Website: Yellowdogbread.com

The Cupcake Shoppe Bakery

Cozy and stylish light filled cafe bakery whipping up bespoke cakes & cupcakes using fresh, high end, local ingredients.

They’ve been baking from scratch each morning for over 10 years and whilst their specialty is cupcakes, they also boast a full espresso bar, breakfast pastries, croissants, and muffins.

Wide variety of cupcakes including a weekly special and gluten free/vegan options , plus cookies, bars, brownies, seasonal ice cream sandwiches, homemade marshmallows. They proudly serve locally roasted Joe Van Gogh coffee and espresso that you can enjoy on their patio.

Pretty in Pink (signature fresh strawberry cupcake with strawberry buttercream!) it’s to die for. Also the Brown Betty, Big Red. Their gluten free cupcakes are delicious too.

• Address: 104 Glenwood Avenue, Raleigh
• Website: Thecupcakeshopperaleigh.com

Lucettegrace

When you are downtown in the Fayetteville Street area and craving some great macarons or a one of a kind pastry, Lucettegrace is a contemporary patisserie located near the Convention Center. 

French inspired desserts. Delicious sweet and savory baked goods. Solid lunch options (soup/sandwiches/salads). Bright and clean space with large windows that look out into the street. Their menu changes frequently, so don’t just visit once!

Macarons ( huge variety of flavors) our kids enjoyed the Good hot chocolate. 

• Address: 235 Salisbury St, Raleigh
• Website: Lucettegrace.com  

Bittersweet

If you enjoy the concept of a dessert bar , a place where you can get bourbon with your pie, champagne with your cake, or Irish whiskey in your coffee, Bittersweet serves up delicious desserts, coffee and cocktails.

Fun atmosphere, nostalgic decor, music playing. All of the desserts are made in-house, many to choose from – none dairy-free. Excellent cocktails, desserts and service. Not a big place so fills up quickly, especially on weekend nights.

Pumpkin creme brulee, Derby Pie, S’mores Sundae, Salty Chipwich Ice Cream Sandwich, the cocktails. 

• Address: 16 E. Martin St, Raleigh
• Website: Bittersweetraleigh.com

Videri Chocolate Factory

Ok chocolates lovers, it’s time to rejoice! Come check out the Videri Chocolate Factory and retail space and sample yummy chocolate.

Also now selling soft serve ice cream. And the attached cafe Black & White is a full espresso bar serving up great coffees (how about a mocha made with their chocolate!) 

A behind the scenes look at the chocolate-making process from start to finish. Top notch service from knowledgeable staff.  Rich, high quality chocolate , hand-made chocolate with many choices, vegan options, allergy friendly. They source organic and fair trade ingredients. 

Bonbons, all the chocolate bars, Hot Cocoa. Great location in the Warehouse District next to Crank Arm Brewing and across from Pit BBQ.

• Address: 327 W Davie St, Raleigh
• Website: Viderichocolatefactory.com

Two Roosters Ice Cream

Two Roosters was founded by a NC State University alum . Initially roaming the streets of Raleigh in a turquoise 1965 Ford truck, it was such a hit they opened brick-and-mortar locations in 2017.

Located on Person St near Oakwood and Mordecai, their handcrafted ice cream features seasonal and permanent flavors – often inspired by local events and restaurants.

Unusual creations with quality ingredients. A cute small space, often a life out the door. 

Popular items

Earl Grey Lemon Cookie Dough, Blackberry Hibiscus. Coffee Bourbon.

Read more – 7 best places for ice cream in Raleigh

• Address: 215 E Franklin St, Raleigh
• Website: Tworoosters.com

I hope this post helped you discover some great places to eat in Raleigh? 

With so many delicious and creative Raleigh restaurants to choose from, we know you won’t leave the City of Oaks with an empty stomach, and your taste buds satisfied.

We’ll be updating this post over time as we try new restaurants. Stay tuned!  Please share your recommendations for places to eat in Raleigh in the comments section below!

There you have it, our top suggestions on the best places to eat in Raleigh NC (inside the beltline). Now it’s your turn, what our your favorite Raleigh restaurants? Please share in the comments below!

• 48 hour guide to visit Raleigh
• 32 best Raleigh events and festivals
• 17 wonderful parks in Raleigh
• 15 fun days trips from Raleigh
• 13 places to eat breakfast in Raleigh

Moscow Itinerary: How To Spend 3 Days In Moscow

By: Author Lotte

Posted on Last updated: March 2, 2023

Categories Trans Mongolian Express

Moscow is the capital of Russia and there are few cities in the world that have played such a significant part in history.

Home to the Kremlin, the Red Square, the colorful St. Basil's Cathedral, and many more famous landmarks, Moscow is a city like no other.

This Moscow itinerary will help you plan your trip and make the most of your time in Moscow. From the best places to see in Moscow to how to get around, this post has got you covered.

Moscow itinerary

Disclosure: Some links in this post are affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you!). We're very grateful when you use our links to make a purchase:-).

Moscow 3 day itinerary: map with highlights

Click here for the interactive map .

What to do in Moscow in 3 days

• Day 1: The Red Square, GUM Department Store, St. Basil's Cathedral, Lenin's Mausoleum, and the State Historical Museum.
• Day 2: The Kremlin, the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour, Gorky Park, and the Bolshoi Theatre.
• Day 3: Izmailovsky Market, Bunker 42, and Zaryadye Park.

Important things to know when planning a trip to Moscow

The best time to plan a trip to Moscow is April-May and September-October . During these months temperatures are (generally) quite comfortable, though even in April there can be a bit of snow! The summer months are hot, both in regard to temperature as well as activities in the city. While it's a nice time to visit, it's also the busiest time of the year to visit Moscow. Hotel prices reflect this as well and summer definitely isn't a great time for budget travelers to visit Moscow. Winter in Moscow is cold, and I mean seriously cold (-15°C isn't rare). However, if you can withstand the subzero temperatures and freezing winds, it can be a magical time to visit. A snow-covered St. Basil’s Cathedral is a sight you will never forget. Keep in mind that days are short in winter and be sure to bring plenty of warm winter clothes!

The official currency in Russia is the Russian Ruble (₽ or RUB). Here you can find the current exchange rates, at the time of writing €1 is approximately 70RUB and $1 is around 62RUB.

Yes, you probably do. Getting a visa for Russia requires a bit of time and effort. You need to fill out several forms and provide a detailed travel itinerary and information about your accommodation. Also, you will need a Visa Support Letter which can be provided by your travel agency or your hotel. Depending on your nationality, there may be additional requirements, please refer to the information provided on the website of your country's Embassy in Russia.

While most of the things to see in Moscow listed in this post are within walking distance of each other, sometimes you will have to travel a bit further afield. The best way to get around in Moscow is by metro. It's cheap and efficient and a sightseeing activity in itself, because Moscow has the most beautiful metro stations in the world ! Among the most exquisitely decorated stations are Komsomolskaya, Novoslobodskaya, Mayakovskaya, Taganskaya, and Prospect Mira Station, but there are many more worthwhile stations to be found in the Moscow underground. You can purchase a single ticket from one of the ticket machines or get a rechargeable Troika Card when you plan on taking the metro several times. Read more details on how to use the Moscow metro here . If you prefer to get around by taxi, that's possible too. We used the Gett app to order a taxi (similar to Uber) to avoid confusion about our intended destination and having to negotiate in Russian. A convenient extra for families is the Gett Kids option, these cars are outfitted with a car seat.

The best things to do in Moscow

While you could easily spend a week in Moscow (or more), most of us, unfortunately, don't have that much time available.

This 3-day Moscow itinerary will guide you to the most popular and important places to visit in Moscow, as well as to some of the more unusual things to do in Moscow.

Below you can find the list of the Moscow sightseeing highlights included in this post.

The Red Square

Gum department store, st. basil's cathedral, lenin's mausoleum, the state historical museum, the kremlin, cathedral of christ the saviour.

• The Bolshoi Theatre

Izmailovsky Market

Zaryadye park.

Plan your trip like a pro with these tools: ✈️ Find the best flight deals on Kiwi.com . ? Get the best car rental deal for your road trip on Rentalcars.com . ?️ Find your dream accommodation on Booking.com or Agoda . ? Book the best tours via Get Your Guide , Viator or Klook . ? Plan your journey with the  Lonely Planet . ?️ Travel safely and get reliable travel insurance from Safety Wing .

Moscow itinerary day 1

There is no better place to start your first day in Moscow, than at the world-famous Red Square.

This square is considered the central square of Moscow, not just because all the major streets start here, but also because no matter where you look when standing on this square, there are historic buildings all around.

Starting with the impressive GUM store and going clockwise, there is the colorful Saint Basil's Cathedral, the Kremlin, Lenin's Mausoleum, the State Historical Museum, and the Kazan Cathedral.

However, before entering any of these Moscow must-see attractions, allow yourself a moment to take in the view and let it sink in that you're standing on historical grounds (and a UNESCO site).

The Red Square was the official address of the Soviet government and played an important part in history. Many military parades have been held (and are still being held) here. It's the place where protests have taken place, as well as high-profile concerts from famous international artists.

All in all, it's one of the places in Moscow you can't miss during your Moscow city trip!

Yulia from That's What She Had: it might seem like visiting a department store is not something you’d do on the first visit to Russia’s capital.

But GUM is not like any other department store and is well worth your time, if only for its unique architecture.

First of all, it’s located right on Red Square which makes it an easy stop on your Moscow trip itinerary. Second, GUM is not a simple mall, but an institution built in the late XIX century.

The abbreviation stands for  Glavniy Universalniy Magazin or Main Universal Store. Its impressive facade extends for over 240 meters along the eastern side of Red Square.

Inside you’ll find a beautiful glass ceiling supported by a metal framework, not unlike the ones found in the old train stations of Great Britain. 

While shopping in GUM will cost you an arm and a leg, there’s one reason why tourists and locals come here anyways:  traditional Russian food  at Stolovaya #57. Stolovaya is Russian for canteen and this is where you can get your  pelmeni , borsch , and  pirozhki  fix!

Afterward, don’t forget to get the famous  plombir  ice cream in one of the kiosks on the ground floor.

Saint Basil's Cathedral with its colorful domes is easily recognizable and one of the most popular Moscow tourist attractions. The building, built on orders from Ivan the Terrible, was completed in 1561 to commemorate the victory over Kazan and Astrakhan.

Until the construction of Ivan the Great Bell Tower (which can be found within the walls of the Kremlin), it was the tallest building in Moscow.

The design of St. Basil's Cathedral is truly unique; it's shaped like the flame of a bonfire and not one building in a similar style can be found in the whole of Russia.

A legend tells the story of how Ivan the Terrible had the architects of the Cathedral blinded so they could never build anything comparable.

This is a myth, however, but the fact remains that Saint Basil's Cathedral is one of a kind and it's not surprising it has become the symbol of Russia.

Wendy from The Nomadic Vegan: Lenin Mausoleum is hard to miss. It's a stepped-pyramid construction that sits right at the base of the Kremlin walls on the western side of Red Square.

Entrance is free but note that opening hours are quite limited, with visiting hours lasting only from 10 am to 1 pm on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday.

If seeing Lenin's embalmed body is important to you, be sure to take this into account when planning your itinerary in Moscow.

One of my  top tips for travelers to Russia  is to arrive early, well before the mausoleum opens, as the queue is usually quite long. However, usually, the queue does move pretty quickly.

This is especially true now that they have lifted the ban on bags and cameras.

It used to be that all cameras, smartphones, and bags of any size had to be checked at a left-luggage office nearby. But now you can bring a small handbag or backpack as well as your camera and phone.

Photography inside the mausoleum is still strictly forbidden, but you are allowed to take photos of the graves of various other important Russian figures that line the path leading to the mausoleum.

Once you finally enter the mausoleum, the atmosphere is surprisingly peaceful and uncrowded. It doesn't feel nearly as rushed as when visiting Mao Ze Dong's tomb in Beijing or Ho Chi Minh's body in Hanoi , for example.

The illumination of the body is very well done and would make for superb photography if it wasn't forbidden. As an added bonus, just after you exit, you'll see the grave of Joseph Stalin outside.

Rai from A Rai Of Light: the imposing crimson building at the northern end of the Red Square is the State Historical Museum.

By decree of Alexander III, the museum was built with the support of Russian historians, philosophers, and artists. The red brick building, dating from 1875, was designed in the Russian revival style by Vladimir Shervud.

The National Museum of Russia houses a collection of over four million items, devoted to the history of the country's ancient and imperial period.

The exhibitions include many items previously owned by members of the Romanov dynasty, such as documents, artwork, personal items, furnishings, and decorations from the palace interiors.

Another exhibit features relics of the prehistoric tribes that once inhabited this region.

Notable items include ancient manuscripts, birch-bark scrolls, a longboat excavated from the banks of the Volga River, and the largest coin collection in Russia, sourced from the museums in St Petersburg .

The State Historical Museum is open daily from 10 am to 6 pm. The entrance fee is 700₽ per adult.

Moscow itinerary day 2

When listing the best Moscow things to do, one cannot miss the Kremlin! The Kremlin houses the current seat of power in Russia and has done so for several decades.

Within its walls, the offices of the Russian Government can be found. During Soviet rule, the Kremlin was where all the important decisions were made but its history goes back for many centuries.

The first mention of the Kremlin in history books was in 1147, however, the current citadel dates from the 16th century.

The Kremlin is one of the major fortifications found in Europe, with walls that are up to 6.5 meters thick and 19 meters high in particular sections.

Inside the complex, there are many government buildings, however, these aren't accessible to the public.

Around Cathedral Square you'll find (as the name suggests) many churches and cathedrals, such as the Cathedral of the Archangel, Annunciation Cathedral, the Church of Laying Our Lady's Holy Robe, and Ivan the Great Bell-Tower.

While Cathedral Square is definitely worth visiting, the highlight of the Kremlin is a visit to the Armoury.

Inside you can find an impressive collection of Faberge eggs, beautiful dresses worn by Catherine the Great, intricately decorated thrones used by the Tsars, and much more. Unfortunately, photography is forbidden inside the Armoury.

Practical information about visiting the Kremlin

In order to visit both Cathedral Square and the Armoury, you will have to buy two separate tickets. A ticket to Cathedral Square costs 700₽ and a ticket to the Armoury is 1000₽. Prices mentioned are for adults, children below 16 years old are free.

Tickets can be bought at the ticket office onsite on the same day, however, there's no guarantee tickets will be available, especially during peak season.

Conveniently, tickets can be bought online as well, which is highly advisable if you want to make sure you'll be able to visit the Kremlin during your city trip to Moscow.

How much time to spend at the Kremlin

Be sure to allow plenty of time to explore the Kremlin, at least half a day but it's easy to spend more time as there is so much to see.

Please note there isn't any food sold inside the Kremlin, so bring a snack and enough water (especially in summer when it can get pretty hot).

Luggage storage

Backpacks aren't allowed inside the Kremlin, they can be stored (for free) in the cloakroom, but you can bring your camera and a small purse.

We could also take our Babyzen Yoyo stroller inside, which was very convenient as our 10-month-old son could take a nap while we explored the sights.

After the original Cathedral of Christ the Saviour was demolished by Stalin in 1931, a new version was completed in 2000.

The imposing building is the tallest Orthodox Christian church in the world (103 meters high), and is beautiful on the outside as well as on the inside.

Visiting the Cathedral is free of charge and it's open any day of the week from 10 am to 5 pm (except on Mondays when the opening hours are 1 to 5 pm).

When visiting the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour it's important to dress appropriately. For men, this means no shorts or tank tops.

Women can't enter with mini skirts or shorts, strap tops, or anything too revealing. Also, women are advised to cover their heads with a scarf as a sign of respect.

Inside the Cathedral photography isn't allowed, but believe me when I say there is plenty to see. There are beautiful frescoes, colorful icons, impressive statues, and other vivid decorations.

For a beautiful view over Moscow, walk up the stairs to the 40-meter high observation deck (entrance fee 400₽).  

Visit Gorky Park

Helen from Holidays from Hels : Gorky Park, named after the Soviet writer Maxim Gorky, has recently undergone extensive regeneration to become Moscow's central leisure hub for young Muscovites.

Every day of the week you can find many Moscow residents strolling along the banks of the river in the summer, hiring bikes, picnicking on the grass, or dining at one of the many restaurants.

Open-air cinemas, petanque, and ping pong are all on offer. Not to be missed is the iconic white stone entranceway and museum, complete with columns carved with Soviet hammers and sickles.

In winter, look out for the ducks waddling across the frozen Moskva River, and watch boats attempting to navigate through the cracked ice. However, the real winter highlight is to try ice skating on one of the biggest rinks in Europe!

Ice skating in Gorky Park

The park’s maze of pedestrian pathways is transformed into one huge skating rink, which can play host to up to four thousand skaters. 

Not surprisingly, Russians are talented ice skaters and there is a good chance you will find yourself next to a pirouetting ballerina.

Handily, you will find you will already be wearing most of what you need – gloves, hat, scarf, and thick socks and you can hire skates on-site. Lockers are included in the price if you don’t fancy skating with your day pack.

Disco tunes fill the air, and the whole arena is backlit in spectacular neon lights. Rest your weary legs and warm up at one of the cafes dotted along the frozen pathways, with the added bonus of not having to take off your skates.

Opening times

The rink is open from 10 am until 11 pm on weekdays and until midnight at weekends but closes between 3 and 5 pm. Like most attractions in Moscow, the rink is closed on Mondays. 

The prices range from 350-650₽ and go up in the evening, which is the best time for the light show. Arriving at 5 pm, just as the rink opens for the evening session will give you time to find your ice legs before it fills up with more confident skaters.

Whilst waiting for the rink to open, try out the nearby tubing track where you can shoot down a snowy hill on an inflatable ring repeatedly for a very enjoyable half an hour!

How to get to Gorky Park by metro

The nearest metro is Park Kultury Station, on the other side of the river. As always, check out in advance what this looks like in the Russian Alphabet so you know when to get off!

Bolshoi Theatre

James Ian at Travel Collecting : one of the best places to go in Moscow is the famous Bolshoi Theater, located only a short walk from Red square. Bolshoy means big in Russian, and the theatre is not only big but also beautiful.

There are two ways to see the theater: on a guided tour or by watching a performance .

Take a guided tour

• English tours are held on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays at 11:30 am. Tickets for these tours can be bought (on the same day) at the ticket office located in the Historic building of the theatre (door #12).
• A ticket costs 2000₽ per person, tours last one hour, and the number of people on a tour is limited to a maximum of 20. The tour takes you inside the theater and to the historic main stage.

Watch a performance

My favorite way to see the theater, though, is to enjoy a performance and experience the theater as a patron.

The entrance is a little underwhelming when you first arrive, the street lobby is small and quite plain and you will be immediately directed up to your floor.

There are helpful attendants on each floor to guide you to the correct door. Arrive a little early and head up to the Grand Salon on the top floor where you can enjoy a glass of champagne while people-watching (Russians dress up for the theater).

Then head to your seat and take in the stunning theater before enjoying the famous Bolshoi Ballet or another performance.

Be sure to book a show at the historic stage, there is a modern stage as well but that isn't nearly as much fun.

Moscow itinerary day 3

Karen from WanderlustingK : one of the most interesting Moscow places to visit is the Izmailovsky Market .

This flea market and tourist attraction a bit outside of the tourist center is a recreation of a Tzar’s Palace, known as a Kremlin, produced in a colorful 16th-century style.

The market is filled with tiny stalls that sell everything from snacks to kitsch to authentic items from Soviet times such as hats, pins, and other pieces of memorabilia.

You'll also find authentic antiques such as vases, paintings, and other religious items if you're looking to splurge within the interior parts of the market.

Negotiating in English is not always possible as many vendors only speak Russian, so be sure to practice your Russian numbers and see how well you can do with haggling.

It's important to carry cash when you visit given that many vendors do not accept cards. We ended up purchasing a series of hats at the market, along with a beautiful hot tea glass with a metal holder with a typical Russian scene.

Elsewhere in the market, you’ll also find a few tourist shops that sell typical Russian products. It takes a few hours to see the market in full, so arrive early as the best items go quickly! 

Lindsey from Have Clothes, Will Travel : Bunker-42 was once a top-secret, Soviet military complex. Stalin commissioned its construction after the United States succeeded in creating a nuclear bomb.

An impressive 65 meters (or about 213 feet) underground, was the desired depth to protect Russia’s top officials from a nuclear attack.

Bunker 42 became operational in 1954. Fortunately, it was never needed for its true purpose, and instead it was used as the command center of strategic bombers for nearly 30 years.

Nowadays it's a museum dedicated to the Cold War and visiting is a truly unique experience!

You will need to join a tour in order to see the museum. You can call ahead to book your tour (the number is: +7 499 703-44-55), there are several English tours throughout the day that are held at 13:30, 16:30, and 18:30 (the price is 2200₽).

On Mondays, there is an extra tour at 17:30, which lasts an additional 30 minutes and costs 2800₽ per person. There is also the option to book a private tour. However, I am unsure of the price for this.

You will have to wait until exactly 15 minutes before your tour begins before you'll be admitted inside. After paying for your tickets and a quick restroom stop you will descend 65 meters underground…

Another option for visiting Bunker-42, if you would rather not do the tour, is to visit the restaurant inside Bunker-42. Actually, I highly recommend visiting the restaurant before or after a tour as well!

While the food is not that great, it’s worth visiting for a drink. The restaurant is also located within the bunker and is decorated in the old Soviet style.

From time to time there will be live performances and visiting Bunker 42 is definitely an experience worth having while in Moscow! After all, how many people can say they've had a drink in a top-secret Soviet military bunker?

If you’re visiting Moscow during peak season (June-July-August), it would be worth making a reservation, to avoid having to wait. Otherwise, I would not say you need to worry about a reservation at the restaurant.

Bunker-42 is a short cab ride away from Red Square (10-15 minutes). But I recommend taking the metro to get there. The closest station is Taganskaya, which is a beautiful metro station very much worth visiting.

Park Zaryad'ye or Zaryadye Park is a lovely place for a stroll and a nice place to relax after a day of sightseeing in Moscow, especially when exploring Moscow with kids.

There are many things to see and do in this park, but I recommend starting your visit at The River Overlook , a 70-meter-long boardwalk with beautiful views over the river and the Kremlin.

Other interesting places to visit in Zaryadye Park are the Ice Cave, The Museum of Nature, and The Glass Crust. But most importantly, do as the Muscovites do and find yourself a nice place in the park to sit down and relax.

Enjoy the view, do some people-watching, and take a moment to think back about all the Moscow top sights you've seen in the past couple of days.

Where to stay in Moscow

There is a huge amount of hotels in Moscow, ranging from budget hostels to exquisite 5-star hotels. Below you can find three well-reviewed Moscow hotels (rating of 8.5+ on Agoda and  Booking ).

3-star hotel in Moscow: MIRROS Hotel Mokhovaya

This 3-star hotel is one of the best budget Moscow hotels and is all about location! From the hotel, it's just a 10-minute walk to the Kremlin and only 600 meters to the Christ the Savior Cathedral.

Set in a historic 19th-century mansion, the hotel features classic rooms with ensuite bathrooms.

The staff is friendly and there is a metro station nearby (Borovitskaya), making it easy to get to the Moscow attractions a bit further afield.

Click here to book

Modern hotel in Moscow: Barin Residence Myasnitskaya

The Barin Residence Myasnitskaya is a newly built hotel, located about 1.2km from the Red Square (about a 15-20 minute walk).

The rooms and bathrooms are very modern and clean, the beds are comfortable and room service is available. This hotel is an excellent choice for travelers looking for a nice hotel without a hefty price tag.

Luxury hotel in Moscow: Hotel National Moscow

Hotel National is potentially the best Moscow hotel. It's a gorgeous 5-star hotel located just a stone's throw away from the Bolshoi Theater, the Red Square, and the Kremlin.

The building was designed by architect Alexander Ivanov and completed in 1903 and has been welcoming international travelers ever since.

With its imperial architecture, luxury design, and charming classic rooms (some with a view of the Kremlin!), the Hotel National is a unique property.

Furthermore, you can enjoy an indoor pool, sauna, and fitness center as well as the well-reviewed Beluga restaurant that serves both Russian and European dishes.

While this hotel doesn't come cheap, your stay at the Hotel National will make your trip to Moscow an unforgettable experience.

Moscow itinerary and travel guide: in conclusion

I hope this guide to Moscow will help you plan a trip to this interesting Russian city. Feel free to ask any questions you may have by leaving a comment or  sending me an email !

Below you can find my other posts about the Trans Mongolian Express , and the stops we made along the way:

• St. Petersburg itinerary
• Irkutsk and Lake Baikal itinerary
• Ulaanbaatar itinerary
• Trans-Mongolian Express travel guide

This post was updated in December 2020.

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Home » Europe » Moscow

EPIC MOSCOW Itinerary! (2024)

Moscow is the heart of Mother Russia. Just the mention of this city conjures images of colorful bulbous pointed domes, crisp temperatures, and a uniquely original spirit!

Moscow has an incredibly turbulent history, a seemingly resilient culture, and a unique enchantment that pulls countless tourists to the city each year! Although the warmer months make exploring Moscow’s attractions more favorable, there’s just something about a fresh snowfall that only enhances the appearance of the city’s iconic sites!

If you’re a first-time visitor to Moscow, or simply wanting to see as much of the city as possible, this Moscow itinerary will help you do just that!

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Best Time To Visit Moscow

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Here is a quick look at the seasons so you can decide when to visit Moscow!

The summer months (June-August) are a great time to travel to Moscow to take advantage of the enjoyable mild temperatures. This is considered peak travel season. Bear in mind that hotel prices rise along with the temperatures!

If you’re planning a trip to Moscow during fall (September-November) try to plan for early fall. This way the temperatures will still be pleasant and winter won’t be threatening.

Russian winters (December-February) are not for the faint of heart as Napoleon learned to his peril. Some days the sun will be out for less than an hour, and snow is guaranteed. Although winters are exceptionally cold, this is when you’ll get a true glimpse of the Moscow experience!

The best time to visit Moscow is during spring  (March-May). The temperatures will begin to creep up and the sun begins to shine for significant portions of the day. Hotel rates will also have yet to skyrocket into peak ranges!

With a Moscow City Pass , you can experience the best of Moscow at the CHEAPEST prices. Discounts, attractions, tickets, and even public transport are all standards in any good city pass – be sure invest now and save them $$$ when you arrive!

Moscow is a large city with many accommodation options to choose from. Staying in a location that fits with your travel plans will only enhance your Moscow itinerary. Here is a brief introduction to a few great areas of the city we recommend checking out!

The best place to stay in Moscow to be close to all the action is Kitay-Gorod. This charming neighborhood will put you within walking distance to Moscow’s famous Red Square, thus cutting down on travel time. This will allow you to see more of the city in a shorter amount of time!

It’s surrounded by restaurants, cafes, bars, and shops. If you’re a first-time visitor to Moscow, or just planning a quick weekend in Moscow, then this area is perfect for you!

Another great area to consider is the Zamoskvorechye district. This area of the city offers a blend of new and old Moscow. It has an artsy vibe and there are plenty of fun sites you can explore outside of the main touristy areas of Moscow.

Of course, as in all areas of Moscow, it’s close to public transportation that will quickly connect you with the rest of the city and make your Moscow itinerary super accessible!

Best Airbnb in Moscow – Exclusive Apartment in Old Moscow

Modern and cozy, this apartment is in the heart of Old Moscow. Bordering the Basmanny and Kitay-Gorod districts, this two-bedroom flat is walking distance to the Kremlin and Red Square. Safe, quiet, and comfortable, this is the best Airbnb in Moscow, no question!

Best Budget Hotel in Moscow – Izmailovo Alfa Hotel

The Izmailovo Alfa Hotel is a very highly rated accommodation that provides all the components necessary for a comfortable trip to Moscow. There is an on-site restaurant, bar, fitness center, and an airport shuttle service. The rooms are modern and spacious and are equipped with a TV, heating/air conditioning, minibar, and more!

Best Luxury Hotel in Moscow – Crowne Plaza Moscow World Trade Centre

If you’re touring Moscow in luxury, the Crowne Plaza Moscow World Trade Centre is the hotel for you! Elegantly furnished rooms are equipped with a minibar, flat-screen TV,  in-room safes, as well as tea and coffee making facilities! Bathrooms come with bathrobes, slippers, and free toiletries. There is also an onsite restaurant, bar, and fitness center.

Best Hostel in Moscow – Godzillas Hostel

Godzillas Hostel is located in the center of Moscow, just a short walk from all the major tourist attractions and the metro station. Guests will enjoy all the usual hostel perks such as self-catering facilities, 24-hour reception, Free Wi-Fi, and security lockers. This is one of the best hostels in Moscow and its wonderful social atmosphere and will make your vacation in Moscow extra special!

An important aspect of planning any trip is figuring out the transportation situation. You’re probably wondering how you’re going to get to all of your Moscow points of interest right? Luckily, this sprawling city has an excellent network of public transportation that will make traveling a breeze!

The underground metro system is the quickest and most efficient way to travel around Moscow. Most visitors rely exclusively on this super-efficient transportation system, which allows you to get to pretty much anywhere in the city! It’s also a great option if you’re planning a Moscow itinerary during the colder months, as you’ll be sheltered from the snow and freezing temperatures!

If you prefer above-ground transportation, buses, trams, and trolleybuses, run throughout the city and provide a rather comfortable alternative to the metro.

Moscow’s metro, buses, trams, and trolleybuses are all accessible with a ‘Troika’ card. This card can be topped up with any sum of money at a metro cash desk. The ticket is simple, convenient, and even refundable upon return to a cashier!

No matter which method you choose, you’ll never find yourself without an easy means of getting from point A to point B!

Red Square | Moscow Kremlin | Lenin’s Mausoleum | St. Basil’s Cathedral  | GUM Department Store

Spend the first day of your itinerary taking your own self guided Moscow walking tour around the historic Red Square! This is Moscow’s compact city center and every stop on this list is within easy walking distance to the next! Get ready to see all of the top Moscow landmarks!

Day 1 / Stop 1 – The Red Square

• Why it’s awesome: The Red Square is the most recognizable area in Moscow, it has mesmerizing architecture and centuries worth of history attached to its name.
• Cost: Free to walk around, individual attractions in the square have separate fees. 
• Food nearby: Check out Bar BQ Cafe for friendly service and good food in a great location! The atmosphere is upbeat and they’re open 24/7!

The Red Square is Moscow’s historic fortress and the center of the Russian government. The origins of the square date back to the late 15th century, when Ivan the Great decided to expand the Kremlin to reflect Moscow’s growing power and prestige!

During the 20th century, the square became famous as the site for demonstrations designed to showcase Soviet strength. Visiting the Red Square today, you’ll find it teeming with tourists, who come to witness its magical architecture up close!

The square is the picture postcard of Russian tourism, so make sure to bring your camera when you visit! No matter the season, or the time of day, it’s delightfully photogenic! 

It’s also home to some of Russia’s most distinguishing and important landmarks, which we’ve made sure to include further down in this itinerary. It’s an important center of Russia’s cultural life and one of the top places to visit in Moscow!

In 1990, UNESCO designated Russia’s Red Square as a World Heritage site. Visiting this historic site is a true bucket-list event and essential addition to your itinerary for Moscow!

Day 1 / Stop 2 – The Moscow Kremlin

• Why it’s awesome: The Moscow Kremlin complex includes several palaces and cathedrals and is surrounded by the Kremlin wall. It also houses the principal museum of Russia (the Kremlin Armory).
• Cost: USD $15.00
• Food nearby: Bosco Cafe is a charming place to grat a casual bite to eat. They have excellent coffee and wonderful views of the Red Square and the Moscow Kremlin!

The iconic Moscow Kremlin , also known as the Kremlin museum complex, sits on Borovitsky Hill, rising above the Moscow River. It is a fortified complex in the center of the city, overlooking several iconic buildings in the Red Square!

It’s the best known of the Russian Kremlins – citadels or fortress’ protecting and dominating a city. During the early decades of the Soviet era, the Kremlin was a private enclave where the state’s governing elite lived and worked.

The Kremlin is outlined by an irregularly shaped triangular wall that encloses an area of 68 acres! The existing walls and towers were built from 1485 to 1495. Inside the Kremlin museum complex, there are five palaces, four cathedrals, and the enclosing Kremlin Wall with Kremlin towers.

The Armoury Chamber is a part of the Grand Kremlin Palace’s complex and is one of the oldest museums of Moscow, established in 1851. It showcases Russian history and displays many cherished relics. Definitely make sure to check out this museum while you’re here!

The churches inside the Moscow Kremlin are the Cathedral of the Dormition, Church of the Archangel, Church of the Annunciation, and the bell tower of Ivan Veliki (a church tower).

The five-domed Cathedral of the Dormition is considered the most famous. It was built from 1475–1479 by an Italian architect and has served as a wedding and coronation place for great princes, tsars, and emperors of Russia. Church services are given in the Kremlin’s numerous cathedrals on a regular basis.

The Grand Kremlin Palace was the former Tsar’s Moscow residence and today it serves as the official workplace of the President of the Russian Federation (Vladimir Putin seems to have bagged that title for life) .

Insider Tip: The Kremlin is closed every Thursday! Make sure to plan this stop on your Moscow itinerary for any other day of the week!

Day 1 / Stop 3 – Lenin’s Mausoleum

• Why it’s awesome: The mausoleum displays the preserved body of Soviet leader Vladimir Lenin .
• Cost: Free!
• Food nearby: Khinkal’naya is a charming Georgian restaurant with vaulted ceilings and exposed brick. It’s a popular place with locals and right next to the Red Square!

Lenin’s Mausoleum, also known as Lenin’s Tomb, is the modernist mausoleum for the revolutionary leader Vladimir Lenin. It’s located within the Red Square and serves as the resting place for the Soviet leader! His preserved body has been on public display since shortly after his death in 1924.

It’s located just a few steps away from the Kremlin Wall and is one of the most controversial yet popular Moscow attractions!

Admission is free for everyone, you’ll only need to pay if you need to check a bag. Before visitors are allowed to enter the mausoleum, they have to go through a metal detector first. No metal objects, liquids, or large bags are allowed in the mausoleum!

Expect a line to enter the building, and while you’re inside the building, you’ll be constantly moving in line with other visitors. This means you won’t be able to spend as long as you’d like viewing the mausoleum, but you’ll still be able to get a good look. Pictures and filming while inside the building are strictly prohibited, and security guards will stop you if they see you breaking this rule.

The mausoleum is only open on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday – unless it’s a public holiday or a day scheduled for maintenance. The hours it’s open for each day are limited, make sure to check online before you visit to make sure you can fit this into your Moscow itinerary for that day!

Insider Tip: The Lenin’s Museum is there for people to pay their respect; remember to keep silent and move along quickly, it’s not intended for people to congregate around. Also, men are not allowed to wear hats and everyone must take their hands out of their pockets when inside the building.

Day 1 / Stop 4 – St. Basil’s Cathedral

• Why it’s awesome: A dazzling designed cathedral that showcases Russia’s unique architecture. This cathedral is one of the most recognizable symbols of the country!
• Cost: USD $8.00
• Food nearby: Moskovskiy Chaynyy Klub is a cozy cafe serving food items and pipping hot tea; it’s the perfect place to go if you’re visiting Moscow during the winter months!

Located in the Red Square, the ornate 16th-century St. Basil’s Cathedral is probably the building you picture when you think of Moscow’s unique architecture. Its colorful onion-shaped domes tower over the Moscow skyline!

The cathedral was built from 1555-1561 by order of Tsar Ivan the Terrible. It was designed with an iconic onion dome facade and enchanting colors that captivate all who see it. Fun fact: If you’re wondering why Russian churches have onion domes, they are popularly believed to symbolize burning candles!

This iconic cathedral has become a symbol of Russia due to its distinguishing architecture and prominent position inside the Red Square. It’s one of the most beautiful, wonderful, and mesmerizing historical cathedrals in the world!

The interior of the church surprises most people when they visit. In contrast to the large exterior, the inside is not so much one large area, but rather a collection of smaller areas, with many corridors and small rooms. There are 9 small chapels and one mausoleum grouped around a central tower.

Visiting the inside is like walking through a maze, there are even small signs all around the cathedral tracing where to walk, and pointing you in the right direction! The walls are meticulously decorated and painted with intricate floral designs and religious themes.

The church rarely holds service and is instead a museum open for the public to visit.

Insider Tip: During the summer months the line to go inside the cathedral can get quite long! Make sure to arrive early or reserve your tickets online to guarantee quick access into the cathedral!

Day 1 / Stop 5 – GUM Department Store

• Why it’s awesome: This is Russia’s most famous shopping mall! It’s designed with elegant and opulent architecture and provides a real sense of nostalgia!
• Cost: Free to enter
• Food nearby: Stolovaya 57 is a cafeteria-style restaurant with a variety of inexpensive Russian cuisine menu items including soups, salads, meat dishes, and desserts. It’s also located inside the GUM department store, making it very easily accessible when you’re shopping!

The enormous GUM Department Store is located within the historic Red Square. It has a whimsical enchantment to it that sets it apart from your typical department store.

A massive domed glass ceiling lines the top of the building and fills the interior with natural sunlight. There are live plants and flowers placed throughout the mall that give the shopping complex a lively and cheerful feel! A playful fountain sits in the center, further adding to the malls inviting a sense of wonder and amusement!

The GUM department store opened on December 2, 1893. Today, it includes local and luxury stores, including Fendi, Louis Vuitton, Prada, and many more! There are numerous cafes, restaurants, and even a movie theater inside!

For a special treat, head into Gastronom 1. This 1950s-style shop sells gourmet food items, like wine, freshly-baked pastries, cheese, Russian chocolate, and of course, vodka! Also, be on the lookout for a bicycle pedaling ice cream truck with an employing selling ice cream!

The ambiance is simply amazing, a trip to this idyllic shopping mall is an absolute must on any Moscow itinerary!

Insider Tip: Make sure to carry some small change on you in case you need to use the restroom, you’ll need to pay 50 rubles – or about USD $0.80 to use the bathroom in GUM.

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

Novodevichy Convent | Gorky Park | State Tretyakov Gallery | All-Russian Exhibition Center | Bolshoi Theater

On your 2 day itinerary in Moscow, you’ll have a chance to use the city’s excellent public transportation service! You’ll explore a few more of Moscow’s historic highlight as well as some modern attractions. These sites are a little more spread out, but still very easily accessible thanks to the metro!

Day 2 / Stop 1 – Novodevichy Convent

• Why it’s awesome: The Novodevichy Convent is rich in imperial Russian history and contains some of Russia’s best examples of classical architecture!
• Cost: USD $5.00
• Food nearby: Culinary Shop Karavaevs Brothers is a cozy and simple place to have a quick bite, they also have vegetarian options!

The Novodevichy Convent is the best-known and most popular cloister of Moscow. The convent complex is contained within high walls, and there are many attractions this site is known for! 

The six-pillared five-domed Smolensk Cathedral is the main attraction. It was built to resemble the Kremlin’s Assumption Cathedral and its facade boasts beautiful snowy white walls and a pristine golden onion dome as its centerpiece. It’s the oldest structure in the convent, built from 1524 -1525, and is situated in the center of the complex between the two entrance gates.

There are other churches inside the convent as well, all dating back from many centuries past. The convent is filled with an abundance of 16th and 17th-century religious artworks, including numerous large and extravagant frescos!

Just outside the convent’s grounds lies the Novodevichy Cemetery. Here, you can visit the graves of famous Russians, including esteemed authors, composers, and politicians. Probably the most intriguing gravestone belongs to Russian politician Nikita Khruschev!

The Novodevichy Convent is located near the Moscow River and offers a peaceful retreat from the busy city. In 2004, it was proclaimed a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The convent remains remarkably well-preserved and is an outstanding example of Moscow Baroque architecture! 

Insider Tip: To enter the cathedrals inside the complex, women are advised to cover their heads and shoulders, while men should wear long pants.

Day 2 / Stop 2 – Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure

• Why it’s awesome: A large amusement area in the heart of the city offering many attractions!
• Cost: Free! 
• Food nearby: Check out Mepkato, located inside Gorky Central Park for a casual meal in a cozy setting. There are indoor and outdoor seating options and the restaurant is child-friendly!

Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure is a large green space in the heart of Moscow. The park opened in 1928, and it stretches along the scenic embankment of the Moskva River. It covers an area of 300-acres and offers a lovely contrast from the compact city center.

You’ll find all sorts of wonderful attractions, from boat rides to bike rentals to tennis courts and ping-pong tables, and much more! there are an open-air cinema and festive events and concerts scheduled in the summer months.  A wide selection of free fitness classes is also offered on a regular basis, including jogging, roller skating, and dancing!

Although many of the options you’ll find here are more suited for outdoor leisure during the summer, you’ll also a selection of winter attractions, including one of Europe’s largest ice rinks for ice-skating!

If you’re trying to decide what to do in Moscow with kids, the park also offers several venues designed specifically for kids. Check out the year-round Green School which offers hands-on classes in gardening and art! You can also feed the squirrels and birds at the Golitsinsky Ponds!

The park is very well maintained and kept clean and the entrance is free of charge, although most individual attractions cost money. There is also Wi-Fi available throughout the park.

With so many attractions, you could easily spend all day here! If you’re only planning a 2 day itinerary in Moscow, make sure to plan your time accordingly and map out all the areas you want to see beforehand!

Day 2 / Stop 3 – The State Tretyakov Gallery

• Why it’s awesome: The gallery’s collection consists entirely of Russian art made by Russian artists!
• Food nearby : Brothers Tretyakovs is located right across the street from the gallery. It’s a wonderfully atmospheric restaurant serving top quality food and drinks!

The State Tretyakov Gallery was founded in 1856 by influential merchant and collector Pavel Tretyakov.  The gallery is a national treasury of Russian fine art and one of the most important museums in Russia!

It houses the world’s best collection of Russian art and contains more than 130, 000 paintings, sculptures, and graphics! These works have been created throughout the centuries by generations of Russia’s most talented artists!

The exhibits range from mysterious 12th-century images to politically charged canvases. The collection is rich and revealing and offers great insight into the history and attitudes of this long-suffering yet inspired people!

All pictures are also labeled in English. If you plan to take your time and see everything inside the museum it will take a good 3-4 hours, so make sure to plan your Moscow trip itinerary accordingly! This gallery is a must-see stop for art lovers, or anyone wanting to explore the local culture and history of Russia in a creative and insightful manner! 

Insider Tip: When planning your 2 days in Moscow itinerary, keep in mind that most museums in Moscow are closed on Mondays, this includes The State Tretyakov Gallery!

Day 2 / Stop 4 – All-Russian Exhibition Center

• Why it’s awesome: This large exhibition center showcases the achievements of the Soviet Union in several different spheres. 
• Food nearby: Varenichnaya No. 1 serves authentic and homestyle Russian cuisine in an intimate and casual setting.

The All-Russian Exhibition Center is a massive park that presents the glory of the Soviet era! It pays homage to the achievements of Soviet Russia with its many different sites found on the property.

The center was officially opened in 1939 to exhibit the achievements of the Soviet Union. It’s a huge complex of buildings and the largest exhibition center in Moscow. There are several exhibition halls dedicated to different achievements and every year there are more than one hundred and fifty specialized exhibitions!

The Peoples Friendship Fountain was constructed in 1954 and is a highlight of the park. The stunning gold fountain features 16 gilded statues of girls, each representing the former Soviet Union republics. 

The Stone Flower Fountain was also built in 1954 and is worth checking out. The centerpiece of this large fountain is a flower carved from stones from the Ural Mountains! Along the side of the fountain are various bronze sculptures.

You will find many people zipping around on rollerblades and bicycles across the large area that the venue covers. It’s also home to amusement rides and carousels, making it the perfect place to stop with kids on your Moscow itinerary! Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and allow a few hours to explore all the areas that interest you!

Day 2 / Stop 5 – Bolshoi Theater

• Why it’s awesome: The Bolshoi Theater is a historic venue that hosts world-class ballet and opera performances!
• Cost: Prices vary largely between USD $2.00 –  USD $228.00 based on seat location.
• Food nearby: Head to the Russian restaurant, Bolshoi for high-quality food and drinks and excellent service!

The Bolshoi Theater is among the oldest and most renowned ballet and opera companies in the world! It also boasts the world’s biggest ballet company, with more than 200 dancers!

The theater has been rebuilt and renovated several times during its long history. In 2011 it finished its most recent renovation after an extensive six-year restoration that started in 2005. The renovation included an improvement in acoustics and the restoration of the original Imperial decor.

The Bolshoi Theater has put on many of the world’s most famous ballet acts! Tchaikovsky’s ballet Swan Lake premiered at the theater in 1877 and other notable performances of the Bolshoi repertoire include Tchaikovsky’s The Sleeping Beauty and The Nutcracker!

Today, when you visit the theater, you can expect a magical performance from skilled singers, dancers, and musicians with the highest level of technique!

If you don’t have time to see a show, the theater also provides guided tours on select days of the week. Tours are given in both Russian and English and will provide visitors with a more intimate look at the different areas of the theater!

The stage of this iconic Russian theater has seen many outstanding performances. If you’re a fan of the performing arts, the Bolshoi Theater is one of the greatest and oldest ballet and opera companies in the world, making it a must-see attraction on your Moscow itinerary!

Godzillas Hostel

Godzillas Hostel is located in the center of Moscow, just a short walk from all the major tourist attractions and the metro station.

• Towels Included

Cosmonautics Museum | Alexander Garden | Ostankino Tower | Izmaylovo District | Soviet Arcade Museum

Now that we’ve covered what to do in Moscow in 2 days, if you’re able to spend more time in the city you’re going to need more attractions to fill your time. Here are a few more really cool things to do in Moscow we recommend!

Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics

• Hear the timeline of the ‘space race’ from the Russian perspective
• This museum is fun for both adults and children!
• Admission is USD $4.00

The Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics is a museum dedicated to space exploration! The museum explores the history of flight, astronomy, space exploration, space technology, and space in the arts. It houses a large assortment of Soviet and Russian space-related exhibits, and the museum’s collection holds approximately 85,000 different items!

The museum does an excellent job of telling the full story of the exciting space race between the USSR and the US! It highlights the brightest moments in Russian history and humanity and is very interesting and fun for all ages!

If you’re a fan of space or just curious about gaining insight into Russia’s fascinating history of space exploration, make sure to add this to your 3 day itinerary in Moscow!

The Alexander Garden

• A tranquil place to relax near the Red Square
• Green lawns dotted with sculptures and lovely water features
• The park is open every day and has no entrance fee

The Alexander Garden was one of the first urban public parks in Moscow! The garden premiered in 1821 and was built to celebrate Russia’s victory over Napoleon’s forces in 1812!

The park is beautiful and well maintained with paths to walk on and benches to rest on. The park contains three separate gardens: the upper garden, middle garden, and lower garden.

Located in the upper garden, towards the main entrance to the park is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier with its eternal flame. This monument was created in 1967 and contains the body of a soldier who fell during the Great Patriotic War!

The park stretches along all the length of the western Kremlin wall for about half a mile. Due to its central location in the city, it’ll be easily accessible when you’re out exploring The Red Square.

It provides a bit of relief from the city’s high-energy city streets. Bring a picnic lunch, go for a walk, or just sit and people watch, this is one of the best Moscow sites to wind-down and relax!

Ostankino Television Tower

• Television and radio tower in Moscow
• Currently the tallest free-standing structure in Europe
• Make sure you bring your passport when you visit, you can’t go up without it!

For spectacular views of the city, make sure to add the Ostankino Television Tower to your itinerary for Moscow! This impressive free-standing structure provides stunning views of the city in every direction. The glass floor at the top also provides great alternative views of the city!

It takes just 58 seconds for visitors to reach the Tower’s observation deck by super fast elevator. The tower is open every day for long hours and is a great site in Moscow to check out! There is even a restaurant at the top where you can enjoy rotating views of the city while you dine on traditional Russian cuisine or European cuisine!

The tower is somewhat of an architectural surprise in a city that is not known for skyscrapers! To see the city from a new perspective, make sure to add this stop to your Moscow itinerary!

Izmaylovo District

• The most popular attractions in this district are the kremlin and the flea market
• Outside of the city center and easy to reach via metro
• Most popular during the summer and on weekends

Travel outside the city center and discover a unique area of the city! The Izmaylovo District is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, and one of the coolest places to see in Moscow! The two main attractions we recommend checking out are the Kremlin and the flea market.

The Izmailovo Kremlin was established as a cultural center and molded after traditional Russian architecture. This colorful complex is home to several single-subject museums, including a Russian folk art museum and a vodka museum!

Next to the Kremlin is the Izmailovo open-air market, which dates back to the 17th century! The market is connected to the Izmailovo Kremlin by a wooden bridge. Pick up all your Russian souvenirs here, including traditional handicrafts, paintings, books, retro toys, and Soviet memorabilia!

You will find many hand-made and hand-painted options available at higher prices, as well as mass-produced souvenir options at lower prices!

Museum of Soviet Arcade Games

• Closed on Mondays
• Filled with old arcade games that visitors get to try out!
• The museum also includes a small cafe and burger shop

For something a little different, check out the Museum of Soviet Arcade Games! The museum features roughly 60 machines from the Soviet era, including video games, pinball machines, and collaborative hockey foosball! The machines inside the museum were produced in the USSR in the mid-1970s.

The best part is, most of the games are still playable! Purchase tickets and try the games out for yourself! The museum also has a neat little screening room that plays old Soviet cartoons and an area with Soviet magazines! This unique attraction is a fun addition to a 3 day itinerary in Moscow, and an attraction that all ages will enjoy! 

Whether you’re spending one day in Moscow, or more, safety is an important thing to keep in mind when traveling to a big city! Overall, Moscow is a very safe place to visit. However, it is always recommended that tourists take certain precautions when traveling to a new destination!

The police in Moscow is extremely effective at making the city a safe place to visit and do their best to patrol all of the top Moscow, Russia tourist attractions. However, tourists can still be a target for pickpockets and scammers.

Moscow has a huge flow of tourists, therefore there is a risk for pickpocketing. Simple precautions will help eliminate your chances of being robbed. Stay vigilant, keep your items close to you at all times, and don’t flash your valuables!

If you’re planning a solo Moscow itinerary, you should have no need to worry, as the city is also considered safe for solo travelers, even women. Stay in the populated areas, try and not travel alone late at night, and never accept rides from strangers or taxis without a meter and correct signage.

The threat of natural disasters in Moscow is low, with the exception of severe winters when the temperature can dip below freezing! Bring a good, warm jacket if you visit in Winter.

However, please note that Russian views on homsexuality are far less accepting than those in Western Europe. Likewise, Non-Caucasian travellers may sadly encounter racism in Russia .

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for Moscow

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Now that we’ve covered all the top things to see in Moscow, we thought we’d include some exciting day trips to other areas of the country!

Sergiev Posad (Golden Ring)

On this 7-hour guided tour, you’ll visit several scenic and historic areas of Russia. Start your day with hotel pick-up as you’re transferred by a comfortable car or minivan to Sergiev Posad. Admire the charming Russian countryside on your drive and enjoy a quick stop to visit the Russian village, Rudonezh!

You’ll see the majestic Saint Spring and the Church of Sergiev Radonezh. You’ll also visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, one of the most famous Orthodox sites in Russia!

Lastly, you’ll swing by the local Matreshka market and enjoy a break in a nice Russian restaurant before returning to Moscow!

Day Trip to Vladimir and Suzdal

On this 13-hour trip, you’ll discover old Russia, with its picturesque landscapes and white-stoned beautiful churches! You’ll visit the main towns of the famous Golden Ring of Russia – the name for several cities and smaller towns north-east of Moscow.

Your first stop will be in the town of Vladimir, the ancient capital of all Russian principalities. The city dates back to the 11th century and is one of the oldest and the most important towns along the Ring! Next, you’ll visit Suzdal, a calm ancient Russian town north of Vladimir with only 13,000 inhabitants!

The old-style architecture and buildings of Suzdal are kept wonderfully intact. If you’re spending three days in Moscow, or more, this is a great option for exploring the charming areas outside the city!

Zvenigorod Day Trip and Russian Countryside

On this 9-hour private tour, you’ll explore the ancient town of Zvenigorod, one of the oldest towns in the Moscow region! As you leave Moscow you’ll enjoy the stunning scenery along the Moscow River, and make a few stops at old churches along the way to Zvenigorod.

Upon arrival, you’ll explore the medieval center, including the 14th-century Savvino-Storozhevsky Monastery. Next, you’ll take a break for lunch (own expense) where you’ll have the chance to try out the Russian cuisine! Next, you’ll visit the Museum of Russian Dessert and sip on tea at a Russian tea ceremony.

The final stop of the day is at the Ershovo Estate, a gorgeous place to walk around and enjoy nature!

Day Trip to St Petersburg by Train visiting Hermitage & Faberge

On this full-day tour, you’ll enjoy a a full round trip to St Petersburg where you’ll spend an exciting day exploring another popular Russian city! You’ll be picked up from your hotel in Moscow and be transferred to the train station where you’ll ride the high-speed train ‘Sapsan’ to St Petersburg.

Upon arrival, you’ll start the day by touring the Hermitage Museum and the Winter Palace. Next, you’ll visit the Faberge Museum, where you’ll explore the impressive collection of rare Faberge Eggs! In the afternoon, enjoy a sightseeing boat ride and a traditional 3-course Russian lunch.

If you’re spending 3 days in Moscow, or more, this is an excellent trip to take!

Trip to Kolomna – Authentic Cultural Experience from Moscow

On this 10-hour tour, you’ll escape the city and travel to the historic town of Kolomna! First, you’ll visit the 14th-century Kolomna Kremlin, home to the Assumption Cathedral and an abundance of museums!

Next, enjoy lunch at a local cafe (own expense) before embarking on a tour of the Marshmallow Museum – of course, a marshmallow tasting is provided!  Your final stop is the Museum of Forging Settlements, where displays include armor and accessories for fishing and hunting.

Discover this beautiful Russian fairytale city on a private trip, where all of the planning is taken care of for you!

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

Find out what people want to know when planning their Moscow itinerary.

How many days you need in Moscow?

We recommend that you spend at least two or three days in Moscow to take it all in.

What’s the best month to visit Moscow?

The best time to visit Moscow is over the spring, from March to May as temperatures are mild, crowds are thin and prices are reasonable.

What are some unusual things to do in Moscow?

I mean, queuing up to see an almost 100 year old corpse is pretty unsual! Check out Lenin’s Mausoleum if you fancy it!

What are some fun things to do in Moscow?

The Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics is a fun place to explore the famous space race from the perspective of the ‘other side’!

We hope you enjoyed our Moscow itinerary! We’ve made sure to cover all the Moscow must-sees as well as some unique attractions in the city! Our addition of insider tips, favorite food stops, and day trips from Moscow is an added bonus and will guarantee you make the most out of your exciting Russian vacation!

Immerse yourself in the modern and traditional Russian lifestyle! Get lost in museums, witness awe-inspiring architecture, and indulge in Russian cuisine! Spend the day strolling through all of the charming sites of Moscow, admiring the beautiful scenery and discovering the city’s fairytale-like enchantment!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Alya and Campbell

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