10 ‘Sweet‘ Destinations in Europe
Planning a European adventure and wondering where the best ‘sweet’ destinations are? We take food seriously, so check out our guide for the best tips!
Europe is home to lots of culinary wonders, including lots of options to satisfy your sweet tooth! Dreaming of French eclairs, German strudel, Italian cakes, Austrian croissants, and more? You’ll find all of this and more throughout your travels. Read on to discover our recommendations for the 10 ‘Sweet‘ Destinations in Europe. You won’t want to miss these tips!
10 ‘Sweet‘ Destinations in Europe
1. Paris, France
The French capital is known worldwide for its desserts and sweets. The Éclairs au Chocolat,Pain aux Raisins, or Pain au Chocolat are must-tries in Paris. Imagine eating a freshly baked pastry under the Eiffel Tower… Seems like a romantic dream or scene from a movie, but it can be a reality! Another popular option here is macarons, and the most famous can be found at Ladurée. Paris is a very ‘sweet‘ destination in Europe that shouldn’t be missed. Be sure to read about how you can make your trip not only mouth-watering but budget-friendly too!
Where to stay?
To make your stay in Paris as enjoyable as possible, we suggest staying at St Christopher’s Inn Canal Paris. Perfect location for being close to tourist must-see places while experiencing local Parisian everyday life at the same time. The hostel has a great spot on a waterfront terrace overlooking Canal Saint-Martin, perfect for starting your day with a morning coffee and Pain au Chocolat.
Paris, France
2. Vienna, Austria
Known for its museums and opera houses, Vienna is also a great place to load up on sweet treats. This is where the croissant was invented! Legend says it celebrates victory over the Ottomans, whose symbol was a half moon. It might not be the nicest story, but we can’t deny the deliciousness of this world-famous pastry. Another great option here is the Apfelstrudel Wiener Art. Vienna is a ‘sweet‘ destination for many other wonderful breads and sweets.
Where to stay?
When it comes to staying in Vienna, the best hostel that we suggest here is St Christopher’s Inns Vienna. Situated south of the city centre, the hostel is a great location for wandering around the streets and exploring Vienna’s local cafes.
https://www.instagram.com/p/BynPcX-oJwu/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link
3. Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon is a foodie and pastry paradise! The Portuguese capital certainly shouldn’t be missed as a destination if you’re searching for something to cure your sweet tooth. You can try everything from Pingos de Tocha to Pastéis de Nata (typical of the area of Belém). Traditionally, these recipes weren’t vegan friendly, but there are tonnes of places now where you can try a vegan variation. Check out any pastelerias to try the widest variety of sweets!
Where to stay?
One day in Lisbon is not enough, for sure! If you want to experience an enjoyable stay in Lisbon, we are only sure of one place here: Sunset Destination Hostel.We can’t assure you that you will want to leave this hostel! Here you have everything needed, including a rooftop bar, a swimming pool, plenty of activities, and just the right ambiance.
Lisbon, Portugal
4. Leipzig, Germany
Germany has a pretty intense relationship with desserts, so Leipzig had to be on our list of the top 10 ‘Sweet’ Destinations in Europe. You can find bakeries and cafes all over the city, and you’re especially in luck if you happen to visit during the Christmas Market! One of the most common times to indulge is mid-afternoon, when we recommend a delectable piece of cake with a cup of coffee. There are too many varieties to name, so we’ll let you pick by yourself when there. If you happen to visit in the summer, you must try some ice cream at one of the many shops all around the city.
Leipzig, Germany
Where to stay?
In Leipzig, we suggest staying at Five Elements Hostel. It has a variety of modern dorm rooms as well as private rooms or even penthouse suites. The hostel is situated in the heart of the city, the perfect location to make it everywhere in just a couple of steps.
5. London, U.K.
The list of ‘sweet’ destinations in Europe would be utterly incomplete without mentioning the British capital. Everyone knows about the classic, ‘British High Tea’, and it’s an experience you’ll want to have! Hit the streets and find a place by 5 o’clock to indulge in this delicious tradition. If you want to indulge in other specialties, the world is your oyster! London is also a hot spot for an array of new and exciting desserts, from milkshakes to bonbons, cookies, and a whole bunch more.
London, U.K. – Photo by Sebastian Coman Photography on Unsplash
Where to stay?
One of the famous hostels to stay in is St Christopher’s Village in London Bridge. It offers staying in a central location for a very budget-friendly price. It has its own bar with live DJ sets, special drink deals, and of course, food to try. Stay in a dorm room, futuristic capsule pod bed, or a private room, as you choose!
6. Santiago de Compostela, Spain
Santiago de Compostela is in the Galicia region of northern Spain, and is best known for the Camino de Santiago (Jacob’s Way). So if you find yourself here for that reason, you should indulge in the local sweets. Our favourite is the sweet Tarta Santiago. It’s a light cake made with an almond base and is the perfect sweet treat after a day of exploring. Another popular option in Santiago de Compostela is Filloas,which is basically Spanish-style crêpes. We think Santiago de Compostela is a ‘best kept secret’ sweet destination in Europe.
7. Brest, France
Often overlooked, Brest is next on our list of ‘sweet’ destinations in Europe. The capital of Lower Brittany is one of the best European cities to enjoy sweets. And it’s also the home of the much-loved Crêpes. These world famous desserts have made an impression on the international food scene. From sweet to savoury, you’ll find a wide variety of options here. Other local favourites include the delicious Palets Brétons and Gâteaux Brétons.
8. Liège, Belgium
Of course, we couldn’t forget Liège on our list of ‘sweet’ destinations in Europe. It’s home to some of the most delicious waffles in all of Europe. Locally, they’re known as Gaufres, which are larger and fluffier than elsewhere in Belgium. You can get your Gaufres topped with several amazing options, so have fun! Liège is also home of the Café Liégois, a cold coffee with ice cream, biscuits, and cream. It pairs well with a waffle!
9. Gouda, the Netherlands
You’d be forgiven for assuming Gouda in the Netherlands is just about that oh-so-good cheese. Gouda is actually a pretty great ‘sweet’ destination in Europe, especially because of their Stroopwafels. These are soft wafers pressed together with caramel syrup and brown sugar filling. They pair perfectly with any hot beverage, and are eaten at all times of the day!
10. Venice, Italy
The last stop on our list of ‘sweet‘ European destinations is Venice. People come from all over to see the historic city, gondolas and boats, and its romantic canals, but they end up falling in love with the sweet treats. The most famous dessert here is tiramisu. It’s one of the most emblematic desserts of Venetian and Italian cuisine; it was actually invented here! And, of course, you should pair it with a nice cappuccino.
Where to stay?
When in Venice, we recommend staying in Anda Venice which is situated in Mestre. Staying here is a great way to meet other travellers from all over the world and experience Venice and its sweet treats in some fun company. Anda Venice offers a full range of amenities for a reasonable price.
10 ‘Sweet‘ Destinations in Europe
We hope you’ve enjoyed our recommendations for the 10 ‘Sweet’ Destinations in Europe, and found inspiration on where to go on your adventures! We’re more than positive your taste buds will fall in love over and over again while eating your way through Europe.
When it comes to staying…
You’ll always stay with the best when you book withEurope’s Famous Hostels. From Edinburgh to Tel Aviv, our hostels are among the best in the destinations and are famous for being sociable and welcoming places for everyone. Click here to see a complete list of destinations in Europe’s Famous Hostels network.
If you’re looking for more information to help you plan your adventure, click here. For all the latest news at Famous Hostels, follow us or subscribe on Instagram,Facebook, TikTok, and YouTube.
