Top 12 Vegan-Friendly Travel Destinations for Plant-Based Eaters
Traveling on a vegan diet can be challenging in meat- and seafood-heavy cuisines, such as those in Japan. However, destinations like Germany and France pose difficulties with meat and dairy in most dishes. Discover these 12 top vegan-friendly spots where flavorful, plant-based meals abound.
Scotland
Scotland surprises as a vegan haven amid meat-centric neighbors like Ireland and Nordic countries. Edinburgh and Glasgow shine with options from loaded nachos and pub classics to indulgent gelato waffles at Affogato in Edinburgh. Plant-based dining here goes far beyond salads.
New York City
Beyond cheesecake and pizza, NYC offers abundant vegan choices, including fine dining at Blossom or Avant Garden. Whether you're a first-time visitor or local, these spots deliver exceptional plant-based cuisine.
India
Indian cuisine features nearly half vegan or vegetarian dishes like vegetable curries, roti, masala dosa, vegetable biryani, aloo puri, and momos. Note that dairy (milk, butter, ghee) is common—request oil substitutions. Green dots on packaging indicate vegetarian items; cows are sacred, so dairy vigilance is key.
Middle East
Iconic vegan staples like pita, hummus, falafel, and sambusak hail from here. Tel Aviv, Israel, is often called the vegan capital, with recent surges in options at eateries. It hosted the World’s Largest Vegan Festival and offers vegan food tours.
Taiwan
Buddhism and Taoism inspire widespread vegan options despite language barriers. Restaurants serve generous, elegantly prepared portions. Use HappyCow for vegan menu translations to simplify ordering.
California
From San Francisco to Los Angeles and San Diego, major cities boast vegan menus, with over 160 exclusively vegan restaurants. Spots like Gracias Madre and Crossroads attract celebrities like Beyoncé. It's a hub for animal rights and clean eating.
Thailand
Thai cuisine uses coconut milk and tofu/veggies instead of meat in creamy curries and pad thai. Try coconut soup, spring rolls with peanut sauce, seitan, and stir-fries for authentic vegan delights.
Mexico City, Mexico
This foodie paradise offers vegan Mexican fare despite common lard and dairy. Authentic, colorful plant-based dishes make it a must-visit for cuisine alone.
Bali, Indonesia
Bali's vibrant vegan dishes mirror its scenery with tropical colors. They're visually stunning and flavorful, appealing even to meat-lovers. Enjoy açai bowls for breakfast or join raw cooking classes.
London, England
PETA-approved London elevates veganism with gourmet options, including Gordon Ramsay's vegan pizza. International cuisines abound; book Vanilla Black for a dairy-free tasting menu with wine pairings.
Paris, France
Paris is emerging in the vegan scene with plant-based croissants, coffee cakes, crème brûlée, kebabs, and burgers—elegant and flavorful takes on French classics.
Portland, Oregon
America's farm-to-fork vegan capital, Portland offers plant-based options nearly everywhere, even unconventional spots. Must-tries: Voodoo Doughnut and Homegrown Smoker's comfort food.
