Best Coffee Destinations in Europe

Coffee. Hearing the word itself makes my skin quiver – maybe because I realize how bad was my sleep last night and it’s midday now yet no cups of coffee are sipped by my half-human-half-zombie body. I have always been in love with coffee. It all started when the 7 years old me sat with dad in the patio when mom came in bringing cookies and two cups of dark liquid with strong smell. Back then, mom said those drinks were poison and that I hadn’t been old enough to try it. But growing up with those strong yet comforting smell every morning slowly builds this sense inside of me – a longing sense of smelling the same strong smell every day of my life. And now, 21 years old me is a regular coffee-drinker who cannot go a day without at least a cup of nice coffee in the morning. Addicted to caffeine? You name it.

I started to think about making this blog post about best coffee destinations in Europe because in many European countries that I visited, coffee has evolved to be more than just a drink. It has become both a craft that has a deep cultural meaning behind it. Many restaurants and coffee shops have spent years trying to create a signature brew and countless sidewalk café and other small deli business survived with coffee alone to the menu – with many more will come thanks to millennials generation loving to do a long walk with coffee cup in hand.

As the era goes by, coffee is not just how the good sharp seeds are roasted into creating a perfect blend and fine taste, but also about the culture of people watching and animated conversations with friends and colleagues. Many brilliant and creative ideas that shaped our generation were born out of a cup of coffee. Friendships have been made, alliances have been formed, and deals have been sealed over a steaming brew. So it becomes this one necessary thing to do for travelers and adventurers from all around the world to try the best coffee shops in town as their top itinerary while traveling. Because for me, there is nothing as important as traveling, not again when good cup of coffee comes along the way. So here are my personal loving and suggestions as to where to go in Europe for a cup of coffee.

Rome, Italy

In 2014, Italy was ranked 12^th among countries that consume the most kilograms of coffee. Thus, it is not surprising that the word “cappuccino”, “espresso”, and “latte” were coined at this coffee drinkers’ paradise. Most of Italians prefer their coffee bold, and when in Rome, you will not see the locals rushing about as they hold their hot cups of latte. In Rome and most of other Italian cities, coffee is meant to be enjoyed while standing at the counter and many coffee shops in Rome usually put extra charge if you want to be seated.

Rome is always being my personal favorite because the quality of the coffee itself and the historical values behind every coffee shop. I can assure you, as a lady who drank 3 cups of coffee everyday for a week in Rome, that it is nearly impossible to find bad coffee in Rome.

Vienna, Austria

Vienna is one of Europe’s more conservative destinations and is one of the smaller capital cities in the continent. However, its small size is more than compensated by its rich culture. Its grand palaces are complemented by small coffee shops that offer some of the best roasted coffees in the world. With its rich history, it is not a wonder that many coffee shops in Vienna have been there for centuries, making them tourist destinations by themselves.

Paris, France

According to 2007 figures, each person in France consumes approximately 5.4 kilograms of coffee. That may seem a lot but to the average Parisian, it is but natural. I came up with the analogy that the French treats their coffee like they treat their lovers – languidly and lovingly. There is no rush to consume a cup here, or should I say a bowl? Breakfast coffee in Paris is often served in a bowl to accommodate the dipping of the delicious freshly-baked croissant. The city also offers many range of coffee shops that suit your taste – you can go enjoying your brew as classic as it should be under the summer umbrella while people-watching, or you can go for more modern choice inside the modern air-conditioned café where you can also learn how to do a proper roasting.

Barcelona, Spain

Spain offers varying strengths of brewed goodness and Barcelona offers secluded coffee shops in the more quiet areas of the city, such as at passageways and neighborhoods not located near the main roads. This enables you to appreciate your cup of coffee without any distractions from busy streets or noisy crowds. For a stronger taste, you can take one shot of espresso or mix it with little bit of milk that becomes locals’ favorite to drink in the morning. My personal favorite is the neighborhood of El Raval and Gracia for some of the best coffee shops. Most coffee shops also serve delicious pastries and baked treats that are worth to try.

For me, no trip to Europe would be complete without having an authentic coffee experience. Whether you prefer an afternoon pick-me-up or simply have a day to spend relaxing, take a seat at one of Europe’s coffee shops and sample a world-renowned brew while watching the world goes by.