Spain and Italy have long been favourites among European travellers for their vibrant cultures, historical landmarks, and mouthwatering cuisines. In recent years, both countries have become increasingly popular for another reason: their exceptional vegan offerings. From traditional plant-based dishes to innovative vegan eateries, Spain and Italy now cater to travellers seeking a cruelty-free culinary experience.
Spain: A Vegan Revolution with a Mediterranean Twist
Spain has always been celebrated for its Mediterranean cuisine, characterised by fresh vegetables, olive oil, and bold flavours. While traditionally heavy on meats and seafood, the country has embraced veganism with enthusiasm, transforming its culinary scene.
Barcelona: A Hub for Vegan Creativity
Barcelona, with its progressive vibe, leads Spain in offering diverse vegan options. The city is home to vegan tapas bars, plant-based bakeries, and fine-dining establishments. Highlights include vegan versions of classic Spanish dishes such as patatas bravas, escalivada (roasted vegetables), and even plant-based chorizo. Restaurants like Veggie Garden and Teresa Carles showcase the city's dedication to creative and satisfying vegan fare. Beyond food, Barcelona’s markets, such as La Boqueria, feature an abundance of fresh fruits, vegetables, and vegan-friendly ingredients. Strolling through these markets is a feast for the senses and a great way to stock up on healthy snacks.
Madrid: Tradition Meets Innovation
Travelling between Barcelona and Madrid is simple thanks to the Barcelona to Madrid train, which allows visitors to seamlessly explore the vegan highlights of both cities. Madrid seamlessly blends traditional Spanish flavours with modern vegan twists. From vegan paella to dairy-free churros dipped in rich chocolate, the city doesn’t disappoint.
Malasaña, Madrid's trendy neighbourhood, is a hotspot for vegan eateries, including Vega, which specialises in locally sourced, organic vegan meals. The city also boasts vegan-friendly supermarkets and bakeries, ensuring that every traveller has access to cruelty-free options.
Vegan Tapas and Beyond
Tapas culture is deeply rooted in Spanish cuisine, and vegan travellers can now fully partake in this cherished tradition. Across Spain, tapas bars offer plant-based delights, including grilled artichokes, gazpacho, and stuffed pimientos de padrón. Cities like Valencia and Seville are also catching up, offering a growing number of vegan restaurants that celebrate local flavours.
Italy: A Culinary Paradise for Vegan Travellers
Italy, with its rich food traditions, may not seem like an obvious choice for vegans at first glance. However, Italian cuisine's reliance on fresh vegetables, grains, and olive oil makes it inherently vegan-friendly. From Naples to Rome and beyond, the country offers a treasure trove of plant-based delights.
Naples: The Birthplace of Simplicity
Naples, the home of pizza, is a paradise for vegan travellers. Many pizzerias offer vegan options, replacing mozzarella with creamy cashew or almond-based cheeses. Traditional Neapolitan pizzas like Marinara, which features a simple topping of tomatoes, garlic, oregano, and olive oil, are naturally vegan and bursting with flavour.
Another unmissable experience is taking the train from Naples to Rome, which not only offers stunning countryside views but also connects travellers to more vegan adventures in the capital city.
Rome: A Blend of History and Innovation
Rome’s vegan restaurants reinterpret Italian classics like cacio e pepe with cashew cream or offer entirely new plant-based creations. Trastevere, a picturesque neighbourhood in Rome, is home to several vegan eateries and markets. Whether you're savouring vegan carbonara or browsing through plant-based cheeses, Rome offers a delightful experience for any vegan traveller.
Pasta, Risotto, and Beyond
Across Italy, traditional dishes like pasta al pomodoro, risotto alle verdure, and bruschetta with tomatoes and basil are naturally vegan or can be easily adapted. Markets in cities like Florence and Bologna sell fresh produce, allowing travellers to enjoy simple, delicious meals made from local ingredients.
Beyond the Cities: Embracing Nature and Local Cuisine
Both Spain and Italy offer countless opportunities to combine vegan dining with outdoor exploration. Spain’s national parks, like Picos de Europa, feature vegan-friendly accommodations where local produce shines. In Italy, agritourism destinations offer plant-based cooking classes, giving visitors the chance to learn how to make vegan pasta and sauces.
Coastal regions in both countries, such as the Amalfi Coast in Italy and Costa Brava in Spain, feature fresh, seasonal vegan options that reflect the Mediterranean diet. Grilled vegetables, fresh fruit, and local wines create a perfect accompaniment to the breathtaking landscapes.
Sustainability and Veganism: A Shared Vision
Both Spain and Italy are increasingly focusing on sustainability, a concept closely tied to veganism. Many restaurants emphasise organic, locally sourced ingredients, while eco-friendly markets provide plastic-free, vegan products. Travellers committed to reducing their environmental impact will find plenty of support in both countries.
Planning Your Vegan Journey
Efficient transport options make exploring these countries a breeze. High-speed rail networks provide fast and scenic connections between major cities in Spain and Italy, offering seamless journeys through iconic regions. These routes highlight the commitment to sustainable travel, aligning perfectly with the values of vegan tourism.
Conclusion: A Vegan Paradise Awaits
Spain and Italy are redefining the concept of vegan travel. With their diverse cuisines, innovative plant-based offerings, and commitment to sustainability, both countries provide unparalleled experiences for vegans. Whether you’re enjoying tapas in Spain or indulging in vegan gelato in Italy, every meal is a celebration of flavour and creativity.Spain and Italy’s vegan offerings extend beyond just food—they also provide rich cultural experiences tailored to plant-based travellers. In Spain, food festivals such as Vegan Fest in Alicante and Veggie World Madrid showcase the country’s commitment to veganism. These events highlight innovative vegan products, cooking demonstrations, and discussions on sustainability, offering visitors a deeper connection to the movement. Meanwhile, in Italy, vegan wine tours in Tuscany allow travellers to explore organic and cruelty-free winemaking while enjoying stunning vineyard landscapes.
Both countries also cater to wellness-focused vegan travellers. Spain’s retreats in the Balearic Islands combine yoga, mindfulness, and plant-based meals, making them an ideal escape for relaxation and rejuvenation. Similarly, Italy’s wellness resorts in regions like Umbria emphasise farm-to-table vegan meals, spa treatments using natural products, and tranquil countryside settings. These experiences demonstrate how both nations are embracing holistic, plant-based lifestyles, making them perfect destinations for vegans seeking more than just a culinary adventure.
With their combination of incredible cuisine, cultural richness, and dedication to sustainability, Spain and Italy continue to raise the bar for vegan travel in Europe. From the bustling cities to serene countryside retreats, these destinations promise unforgettable experiences that go far beyond dining - allowing travellers to immerse themselves in a lifestyle that harmonises with nature and wellness.
Both countries also cater to wellness-focused vegan travellers. Spain’s retreats in the Balearic Islands combine yoga, mindfulness, and plant-based meals, making them an ideal escape for relaxation and rejuvenation. Similarly, Italy’s wellness resorts in regions like Umbria emphasise farm-to-table vegan meals, spa treatments using natural products, and tranquil countryside settings. These experiences demonstrate how both nations are embracing holistic, plant-based lifestyles, making them perfect destinations for vegans seeking more than just a culinary adventure.
With their combination of incredible cuisine, cultural richness, and dedication to sustainability, Spain and Italy continue to raise the bar for vegan travel in Europe. From the bustling cities to serene countryside retreats, these destinations promise unforgettable experiences that go far beyond dining - allowing travellers to immerse themselves in a lifestyle that harmonises with nature and wellness.
