TRAVELLING VEGAN: TOP 10 VEGAN-FRIENDLY CITIES AROUND THE WORLD

If you are reading this blog then you are likely already on board with plant based eating, or at least open to the idea of eating more plant based as part of your regular routine. If recent years say anything, then many others are getting on board as well. The vegan movement has surged in popularity in the past few years, driven by concerns for the impact of animal agriculture on the environment, animal welfare, and the benefits of veganism on our health. Vegan food is so much more accessible than it was even just 3 years ago and light years ahead of where it was in the 90's. I remember going to dinner with my vegan aunt and she would always end up ordering a plain salad and fries as they were the only options she could have on the menu.

As a result of the growing interest and positivity in the plant based lifestyle, more and more cities around the world have adapted to accommodate the growing demand for vegan-friendly options, from restaurants and cafes to food shops and lifestyle amenities. In this blog post, we'll look at 10 of the vegan-friendly cities that stand out as havens for those following a vegan and plant based lifestyle. And 10 that you will probably want to add to your travel wishlist if they weren't on there already!

10 of the Most Vegan Friendly Cities Around the World

1. Berlin, Germany:

I've heard so much about Berlin and how amazing the vegan food there is. So much so that it has moved up my current list as a top destination to visit. Berlin has really come to the forefront as a global leader when it comes to having delicious vegan food on offer and easily accessible, boasting an impressive array of vegan restaurants, cafes, and shops. From traditional German dishes with a plant-based twist to international cuisine from around the world, and from healthy nourishing bowls to the best vegan junk food you could ask for, Berlin offers something for everyone. The city reportedly has a vibrant and inclusive vegan community, along with a stellar commitment to sustainability, making it a top spot for vegan travellers.

2. London, United Kingdom:

Of course we had to include the vibrant multicultural city that is London! London's diverse culinary scene includes an incredible wealth of vegan-friendly options, ranging from fine dining establishments to casual eateries and street food markets. The city's multicultural population ensures a vast array of flavours and cuisines from around the world, with vegan versions of traditional British fare as well. London's embrace of veganism reflects its progressive attitude towards food, health, and sustainability. I have been just once to London so far but can highly recommend Floozies Stuffed Cookies which is fully vegan and Doughnut Time who has a large range of vegan options if you are there and in search of some tasty vegan sweet treats.

3. Portland, Oregon, USA:

Portland, Oregon, is renowned as a haven for vegans, offering a plethora of options that cater to plant-based diets. With a strong culture of sustainability and a focus on locally sourced ingredients, Portland's food scene boasts an impressive array of vegan eateries, from cozy cafes and food carts to upscale restaurants. Dive into hearty vegan comfort food like plant-based burgers, artisanal pizzas, and creamy dairy-free ice cream, or explore the city's vibrant farmers' markets for fresh produce and artisanal vegan products. With its progressive attitude towards ethical dining and a thriving community of vegans and food enthusiasts, Portland welcomes visitors to indulge in delicious and innovative plant-based cuisine while supporting sustainability and animal welfare.

4. Barcelona, Spain:

Barcelona, Spain, embraces a vibrant and diverse culinary scene that caters to a variety of dietary preferences, including veganism. With a growing awareness of plant-based lifestyles, the city offers a plethora of options for vegan travelers and locals alike. From trendy cafes serving up delectable vegan pastries and artisanal plant-based cheeses to innovative restaurants offering creative twists on traditional Spanish dishes sans animal products, Barcelona has something for every palate. Explore bustling markets brimming with fresh fruits, vegetables, and cruelty-free products, or indulge in mouthwatering tapas crafted from locally sourced, plant-based ingredients. Barcelona is making great strides in their sustainability efforts including upping their ethical dining game. If it wasn't already on your list of places to visit perhaps it will be now!

5. Los Angeles, California, USA:

Los Angeles has long been a place to be for health and wellness enthusiasts, making it an ideal destination for vegans. The city's metropolis is home to countless vegan restaurants, juice bars, and cafes, catering to every dietary preference and lifestyle. From trendy cafes to innovative food trucks, there's no shortage of plant-based options to explore. Iconic eateries like Crossroads Kitchen and Gracias Madre offer upscale dining experiences with inventive vegan cuisine, while local favorites such as Sage Vegan Bistro and Cafe Gratitude offer up tasty eats in a more casual setting. They are also host to some amazing vegan festivals like Vegan Street Fair and VegFest that attract both locals and visitors alike. With a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients, Los Angeles is a staple in the global vegan movement.

6. Amsterdam, Netherlands:

Amsterdam, with its rich cultural tapestry and progressive mindset, embraces veganism fully and with open arms, making it a haven for plant-based eaters. The city offers a fantastic selection of vegan-friendly restaurants, cafes, and food markets, catering to all tastes and dietary preferences. From trendy brunch spots serving up classic vegan pancakes and avocado toasts to traditional Dutch eateries offering creative plant-based takes on local classics like bitterballen and stroopwafels, Amsterdam knows what's up when it comes to vegan offerings. Wander down the bustling streets lined with vegan-friendly establishments, where you can indulge in flavourful dishes made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Amsterdam is definitely a top choice when it comes to destinations for vegan foodies.

7. Melbourne, Australia:

Melbourne's thriving food culture doesn't leave vegans behind, with an abundance of vegan-friendly restaurants, cafes, and markets. The city's multicultural population ensures a diverse array of vegan cuisines, from Asian fusion to Mediterranean-inspired dishes. From hip cafes to lively markets, and cozy eateries there's an abundance of plant-based options to choose from. The city also hosts events like Big Vegan Market showcasing the latest trends and products in the plant-based world. With a growing emphasis on ethical eating and sustainability, Melbourne's vegan community continues to flourish, thrive, and grow.

8. Stockholm, Sweden:

Stockholm is a city that is quickly gaining recognition for its burgeoning vegan scene. The city's chefs are known for their creativity and commitment to sustainability, using seasonal and locally sourced ingredients to craft delicious plant-based dishes. From quaint cafes to chic eateries, the Swedish capital offers a diverse array of plant-based options from talented and creative chefs. The city's numerous food markets also showcase a wide selection of fresh produce and vegan-friendly products. Additionally, Stockholm hosts events like the Vegan Fair, bringing together vendors and enthusiasts to celebrate and explore the latest in vegan cuisine and lifestyle. With an increasing emphasis on ethical eating and environmental consciousness, Stockholm's vegan community continues to flourish and attracts more vegans to the city every year.

9. Toronto, Canada:

We had to include my second home on the list because it's pretty rad when it comes to vegan eats, Toronto! Toronto is home to a vibrant vegan scene that reflects the city's incredible diversity. From delectable doughnuts at Bloomers to the OG of upscale eateries in Toronto, Planta there is literally something for everyone. Kensington Market and Parkdale are also excellent neighbourhoods to grab some plant-based fare offering a fantastic mix of options from vegan comfort food to clean healthy bowls. Over the past 10 years the vegan scene in Toronto has become one that will rival any other large city on the map.

9. Bangkok, Thailand:

Bangkok, a bustling metropolis renowned for its incredible street food culture, offers a diverse array of vegan-friendly options within its bustling markets and lively neighbourhoods. From traditional Thai eateries serving up flavourful plant-based curries, stir-fries, and noodle dishes to trendy cafes offering innovative vegan twists on classic desserts like mango sticky rice and coconut ice cream, Bangkok caters to the vegan masses. Explore the city's energetic markets and foods stalls, where you can find an abundance of fresh fruits, vegetables, and plant based snacks. As a vegan traveller, Bangkok has you covered welcoming you to enjoy the incredible flavours of Thailand in a vibrant and lively city.

Final Musings

These are of course not all of the stand out city's offering incredible vegan eats around the world. Cities such as Edinburgh, New York, Ho Chi Minh City, Brighton, and Lisbon also boast thriving and growing vegan communities. While I adore Scotland and living in the Scottish Borders, the thing I definitely miss the most is the amount of vegan options we are spoilt with in Toronto. I always look forward to my Edinburgh trips so I can try out someplace new or visit one of my favourites. I will have some YouTube videos on Edinburgh's vegan scene coming out soon so stay tuned for those!

So, as the vegan movement continues to gain momentum and grow, these cities truly stand out for their commitment to plant-based living and culinary innovation and hopefully many more will be inspired and follow in their footsteps. Whether you're a seasoned vegan or just starting to explore plant-based options, these cities will offer you a wealth of vegan-friendly restaurants, cafes, and markets to discover and enjoy. From Bangkok, to Berlin to Toronto, the vegan revolution is alive and thriving in cities across the globe.

Now tell me, where did I miss? What is your favourite vegan city that you have been to so far? I would love to hear it so drop a comment and let me know.

If you enjoyed this post subscribe to the mailing list and stay up to date with all of the latest travel happenings around the blog. You will also receive my Ultimate Packing Checklist for Travelling Sustainably as a little thank you gift!

Yours in sustainable travel,

Krystle

Subscribe to the mailing list and receive my Sustainable Travel Packing Checklist for FREE!