Traveling through Europe offers a fantastic opportunity to explore its rich culinary traditions. Each country has its unique dishes that tell the story of its culture and history. From savory stews to delicate pastries, European foods are diverse and full of flavor. Many dishes are made with fresh, local ingredients, making every meal a special experience. Whether you are savoring the comforting taste of Italian pasta or enjoying the bold flavors of Spanish tapas, European cuisine never disappoints.

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French Baguette

A French baguette is a classic and iconic symbol of French cuisine. Its golden-brown, crisp crust and soft, airy interior make it perfect for enjoying with a variety of toppings or simply by itself. When in France, you will find these long loaves in nearly every bakery, and they are often paired with cheese, cured meats, or a simple pat of butter. The texture and flavor of a freshly baked baguette are incomparable, offering a delightful crunch followed by a soft, pillowy center.

Whether served as part of a casual picnic or accompanying a rich French meal, a baguette is a staple in any French dining experience. Its versatility extends beyond meals, as it is often used to create sandwiches, such as the famous jambon-beurre (ham and butter). While you can try to replicate it at home, nothing beats enjoying one in France, where it’s made with centuries-old techniques that have been passed down through generations.

Italian Pizza

Italian pizza is unlike any other. Originating from Naples, this dish features a thin, crispy crust topped with simple, high-quality ingredients like fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil. The pizza is often cooked in a wood-fired oven, which gives it a distinct smoky flavor. In Italy, pizza is not just food; it is a cultural experience. The Margherita pizza, with its balance of fresh mozzarella, basil, and tomato sauce, is a must-try for anyone visiting Italy.

Though pizza is famous worldwide, the taste of an authentic Italian pizza is unmatched. Italian pizza places emphasize fresh, locally sourced ingredients, making each bite burst with flavor. Whether in Naples or any other Italian city, a slice of pizza here offers a taste of Italy’s rich culinary traditions and its commitment to quality ingredients.

Spanish Paella

Paella is a traditional Spanish dish that originates from the region of Valencia. This one-pan meal combines saffron-infused rice with seafood, chicken, and vegetables, creating a flavorful and vibrant dish. There are many variations of paella, including seafood paella, which is packed with fresh fish, prawns, and mussels, and mixed paella, which can include both meat and seafood. Each version showcases the rich culinary heritage of Spain and its love for bold flavors.

The process of making paella is as significant as the dish itself, with a special pan used to cook it evenly and develop a delicious crust on the bottom, called “socarrat.” It is often served during family gatherings, festivals, and celebrations, making it a communal dish that brings people together. Enjoying paella in Spain offers a true taste of its coastal and rural roots.

German Bratwurst

Bratwurst is a popular German sausage made from pork, beef, or veal. The name “Bratwurst” comes from the Old High German word “brät,” which refers to finely chopped meat. These sausages are typically seasoned with a variety of spices, including salt, pepper, marjoram, and garlic, giving them a robust, savory flavor. They are often grilled or pan-fried and served with mustard, sauerkraut, or a side of potatoes.

In Germany, bratwurst is often enjoyed during festivals such as Oktoberfest or at a traditional beer garden. It is a great way to experience German culinary traditions, as it’s a dish that’s been perfected over centuries. Whether enjoyed on a bun or served with sides, bratwurst is a must-try when in Germany.

Belgian Waffles

Belgian waffles are world-renowned for their light, crispy texture and sweet, fluffy interior. Made from a batter that is typically yeast-leavened, these waffles have a distinctive flavor that sets them apart from regular waffles. In Belgium, you can find two main types: the Brussels waffle, which is lighter and crispier, and the Liège waffle, which is thicker and richer with caramelized sugar throughout.

Belgians enjoy their waffles in many ways, from serving them as a simple street snack dusted with powdered sugar to topping them with fruits, chocolate, or whipped cream. No matter the variation, Belgian waffles provide a delicious treat that should not be missed while visiting the country. The warm, crispy exterior and soft, airy interior create a perfect balance in every bite.

Greek Souvlaki

Souvlaki is a beloved Greek dish made from skewered and grilled meat, often served with pita bread, vegetables, and a dollop of tzatziki sauce. The meat is typically marinated in olive oil, garlic, lemon, and herbs, which infuse it with a tangy, savory flavor. Pork, chicken, and lamb are the most common meats used for souvlaki, but beef and other options can also be found.

Souvlaki is often eaten as a quick meal on the go or enjoyed with family and friends at a traditional Greek taverna. Its combination of tender, juicy meat and flavorful toppings makes it a delightful treat that perfectly captures the essence of Greek cuisine. Whether served on a skewer or wrapped in a pita, souvlaki is a must-try dish when traveling in Greece.

Swiss Fondue

Swiss fondue is a beloved dish made by melting cheese and enjoyed by dipping bread cubes or vegetables into the gooey, savory mixture. Traditionally made with Swiss cheeses such as Gruyère and Emmental, fondue is often enhanced with white wine and a touch of garlic for added flavor. The dish is served in a communal pot, with diners using long forks to dip their food into the warm cheese.

Fondue has a long history in Switzerland, especially in the Alpine regions, where it was a way to enjoy cheese during the long winters. Sharing a fondue pot with friends or family makes for a fun and social dining experience. While enjoying Swiss fondue, you can savor the creamy texture and the rich, nutty flavors that make it such a distinctive part of Swiss cuisine.

Italian Risotto

Risotto is an Italian dish made from Arborio rice, known for its creamy consistency and rich, comforting flavor. The rice is cooked slowly while being stirred constantly and gradually adding broth, allowing the grains to absorb the liquid and release their starches. This results in a creamy, flavorful dish with endless variations, from risotto alla Milanese, flavored with saffron, to risotto with mushrooms or seafood.

In Italy, risotto is often served as a main course or as a side dish to complement meat or fish. The key to making a perfect risotto lies in the careful balance of timing and ingredients. Whether you’re in Milan, Venice, or Rome, trying a freshly prepared risotto will give you a true taste of Italian culinary traditions.

Portuguese Bacalhau

Bacalhau is a traditional Portuguese dish made from salted cod, which is considered the national dish of Portugal. The cod is dried and salted, then soaked for days to rehydrate before being cooked in various ways. It can be grilled, baked, or stewed, often combined with vegetables, olive oil, and garlic. Many versions of bacalhau exist, each with its own regional twist.

In Portugal, bacalhau is often served during festive occasions and holidays, and it holds a special place in the hearts of locals. The dish embodies the Portuguese love for seafood and showcases the importance of preserving fish in the country’s long seafaring history. Tasting bacalhau in Portugal offers an authentic glimpse into the nation’s maritime culture and culinary history.

Austrian Schnitzel

Schnitzel is a popular Austrian dish made by breading and frying thin cuts of meat, usually pork or veal. The meat is tenderized, coated in breadcrumbs, and fried to a golden crisp. It is often served with a side of potatoes, a lemon wedge, and lingonberry jam. Wiener schnitzel, the most famous variety, originated in Vienna and is one of Austria’s most iconic dishes.

This hearty, comforting meal is enjoyed throughout Austria and has become a favorite in many other countries as well. The crispy exterior and juicy meat inside create a satisfying contrast that makes schnitzel a delightful dish. Whether enjoyed as a casual meal or during a festive gathering, schnitzel offers a taste of Austrian culinary tradition.

French Crêpes

Crêpes are thin, delicate pancakes that can be filled with a wide variety of sweet or savory fillings. In France, they are often served as a dessert with toppings like Nutella, whipped cream, or fresh fruit, or as a savory dish filled with ingredients such as ham, cheese, and mushrooms. The batter for crêpes is simple, consisting of flour, eggs, milk, and a bit of butter, but the possibilities for fillings are endless.

In France, crêpes are typically enjoyed at creperies or street food stalls, where they are made fresh to order. The crispy edges and soft center of a crêpe create a perfect contrast, and the fillings complement the delicate flavor of the batter. Whether you’re indulging in a sweet crêpe in Paris or savoring a savory version in Brittany, crêpes are a quintessential French treat.

Hungarian Goulash

Goulash is a rich, hearty stew that originated in Hungary. It is typically made with beef, onions, paprika, and vegetables, creating a flavorful dish with a deep, smoky taste. The key ingredient in goulash is paprika, which gives the stew its distinctive red color and robust flavor. While goulash can vary by region, it is commonly served with bread or potatoes to soak up the rich broth.

In Hungary, goulash is often enjoyed during colder months, as its warming, comforting qualities make it perfect for chilly weather. It is also a dish that brings people together, often enjoyed in large family gatherings or celebrations. Tasting goulash in Hungary allows you to experience a traditional, centuries-old dish that remains a cornerstone of Hungarian cuisine.

Turkish Kebabs

Kebabs are a popular dish in Turkey, made from skewered and grilled meat, often served with rice or flatbread. The meat, typically lamb, beef, or chicken, is marinated in a blend of spices and herbs to enhance its flavor. One of the most famous types of Turkish kebab is the döner, where meat is cooked on a vertical rotisserie, sliced thin, and served in pita or flatbread with vegetables and sauces.

Kebabs are often enjoyed as street food or served in restaurants, where they are accompanied by fresh salads and side dishes. The smoky, grilled meat and flavorful toppings make Turkish kebabs a must-try for anyone visiting Turkey. Whether you enjoy it wrapped in a flatbread or served on a plate with sides, Turkish kebabs offer a delicious and satisfying meal.

British Fish and Chips

Fish and chips is a classic British dish that consists of battered and fried fish, typically cod or haddock, paired with thick-cut fried potatoes. This dish is often served with mushy peas, tartar sauce, or a sprinkle of vinegar for extra flavor. The batter on the fish is light and crispy, while the fish itself is tender and flaky.

Fish and chips can be found in pubs, takeaway shops, and restaurants throughout the UK. It is considered a quintessential British comfort food, especially enjoyed on a rainy day or after a visit to the seaside. Enjoying fish and chips in the UK offers a true taste of British culinary tradition and history.

Irish Soda Bread

Irish soda bread is a simple, yet flavorful bread made using baking soda as a leavening agent instead of yeast. The bread is traditionally made with just four ingredients: flour, baking soda, salt, and buttermilk. The texture is dense and slightly crumbly, with a tangy flavor from the buttermilk. It is often enjoyed with butter, jam, or as an accompaniment to hearty soups or stews.

In Ireland, soda bread is often baked in a round loaf and scored with an “X” on top to help it rise evenly. The bread is a staple in Irish households and is commonly served at breakfast or as part of a larger meal. Its simplicity and rustic flavor make it a comforting, traditional part of Irish cuisine.

Finnish Karjalanpiirakka

Karjalanpiirakka, or Karelian pasty, is a traditional Finnish pastry made with a thin rye crust filled with rice porridge. Often served with egg butter, this pastry offers a unique combination of savory and creamy flavors. The rice filling is mildly sweet, while the rye crust provides a hearty, slightly nutty taste.

In Finland, Karjalanpiirakka is commonly enjoyed as a snack or part of a light meal. It’s also served at celebrations and gatherings, where it is typically paired with tea or coffee. The pastry reflects Finland’s love for simple, wholesome ingredients, making it a must-try when exploring Finnish cuisine.

Swedish Meatballs

Swedish meatballs, known as köttbullar, are small, round meatballs made from ground beef or pork, seasoned with spices like allspice and white pepper. They are typically served with lingonberry jam and creamy mashed potatoes, along with a rich gravy. The combination of flavors—savory meatballs, tart berries, and creamy potatoes—makes this dish a comforting and satisfying meal.

Köttbullar is a beloved dish in Sweden and is often enjoyed at home or in traditional Swedish restaurants. It is commonly served as part of a festive meal or holiday feast. Tasting Swedish meatballs offers a true taste of Swedish home-cooked comfort food, perfect for any traveler.

Croatian Pasticada

Pasticada is a traditional Croatian dish made from marinated beef, slow-cooked with wine, vegetables, and spices to create a rich and tender stew. The beef is marinated overnight to tenderize the meat and infuse it with the deep flavors of the marinade. After slow-cooking for hours, the result is a hearty, flavorful dish often served with gnocchi or polenta.

In Croatia, pasticada is a dish often prepared for special occasions, such as weddings and holidays. The slow-cooking process makes the beef incredibly tender, and the rich sauce is a perfect complement to the hearty sides. Trying pasticada in Croatia provides a glimpse into the country’s culinary traditions and the importance of slow, methodical cooking.

Dutch Stroopwafels

Stroopwafels are a beloved Dutch treat made from two thin waffles filled with a sticky, caramel-like syrup. The waffles are warm and slightly chewy, with the syrup adding a sweet, indulgent touch. The treat is often served with coffee or tea, and it’s common to place it on top of your cup to warm the syrup inside.

This iconic Dutch snack is a must-try when in the Netherlands, where it’s commonly found in markets and bakeries. The combination of crispy waffles and gooey syrup creates a deliciously satisfying treat. Enjoying a freshly made stroopwafel provides a delightful taste of Dutch culture and cuisine.

Spanish Tortilla

Spanish tortilla, or tortilla española, is a simple yet flavorful dish made from eggs, potatoes, and onions. The potatoes are thinly sliced and cooked in olive oil, then combined with beaten eggs and cooked until set. It is often served as a tapa or light meal and can be enjoyed warm or cold.

Tortilla española is a staple in Spanish households and is commonly served during family gatherings or as part of a tapas spread. The soft, egg-filled center and crispy edges make it a comforting dish that perfectly showcases the flavors of Spain. It is an easy-to-make yet delicious dish that offers a true taste of Spanish home cooking.

This article originally appeared on Avocadu.