A Sweet Tour Worth Traveling For
Europe has a way of turning simple baked goods into unforgettable experiences, and that’s a big reason people plan entire trips around pastries. From butter-heavy croissants to centuries-old rye loaves, these bakeries aren’t just places to grab a quick bite; they’re part of the culture. If you enjoy discovering cities through what comes out of their ovens, you’re in for a treat. Below, you’ll find twenty European bakeries that are widely loved and absolutely worth a stop.
1. Ladurée – Paris, France
Ladurée is practically synonymous with Parisian elegance, especially when it comes to macarons. You’ll notice the delicate textures and balanced sweetness that make each bite feel intentional. Even if you’re not usually into sweets, this place will win you over.
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2. Pierre Hermé – Paris, France
Pierre Hermé takes pastry into more experimental territory without losing its soul. Flavors like rose, lychee, and raspberry show up with confidence rather than gimmicks. You can tell right away that precision and creativity are doing equal work here.
3. Poilâne – Paris, France
Poilâne has built its reputation on rustic sourdough that feels both humble and iconic. The massive round loaves are still baked in wood-fired ovens, which you can taste immediately. It’s the kind of bread you remember long after the meal is over.
4. Du Pain et des Idées – Paris, France
This bakery feels like a neighborhood secret that the whole world somehow discovered. The escargot-shaped pastries are buttery, flaky, and impossible to resist. You’ll likely end up pointing at the case and saying yes to more than you planned, so be prepared.
5. Pastéis de Belém – Lisbon, Portugal
Pastéis de Belém is the undisputed home of Portugal’s most famous custard tart. The pastry shatters gently while the filling stays creamy and warm. What locals know and tourists discover is that one is never enough.
6. Confeitaria Nacional – Lisbon, Portugal
Confeitaria Nacional has been around since the 1800s, and it shows in the best way. Traditional recipes are treated with respect rather than nostalgia. When you step inside, it feels like history is still being baked daily.
7. Maison Dandoy – Brussels, Belgium
Maison Dandoy is best known for speculoos cookies that strike a perfect spice balance. The textures range from crisp to tender, depending on what you choose. It’s an easy place to linger longer than intended.
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8. Dominique Ansel Bakery – Paris, France
This is where the famous cronut first made waves, and the excitement hasn’t faded. New creations rotate regularly, so repeat visits never feel repetitive. You’ll appreciate how playful the menu feels without turning chaotic.
9. Demel – Vienna, Austria
Demel combines old-world charm with immaculate presentation. The display cases alone are enough to stop you in your tracks. Classic tortes and chocolates taste just as refined as they look.
10. Café Sacher – Vienna, Austria
Café Sacher is the official home of the Sachertorte, and it takes that role seriously. The chocolate cake is rich without being heavy, which is harder to pull off than it sounds. Pair it with coffee, and you’ll understand the hype.
11. Sprüngli – Zürich, Switzerland
Sprüngli is a Swiss institution known for both pastries and chocolate. Everything feels polished, from the service to the final crumb. It’s a great reminder that simplicity can still feel luxurious.
12. Fortnum & Mason Bakery – London, England
Fortnum & Mason brings refinement to traditional British baking. Scones, cakes, and breads are done with a clear focus on quality. You’ll feel slightly fancy just carrying the box outside.
13. St. John Bread and Wine – London, England
This bakery is celebrated for its honest, no-frills approach to bread. The loaves have deep flavor and strong structure. It’s the kind of place that turns skeptics into bread obsessives.
14. Ottolenghi – London, England
Ottolenghi’s bakeries blend Mediterranean flavors with European pastry traditions. You’ll find ingredients used in ways that feel fresh and thoughtful. Each bite feels vibrant rather than heavy.
15. La Mallorquina – Madrid, Spain
La Mallorquina has been feeding Madrid since the late 1800s. The pastries are classic, but they’re executed with consistency and care. It’s always buzzing, which tells you everything you need to know.
16. Forno Campo de’ Fiori – Rome, Italy
This bakery is famous for pizza bianca, which sells out fast. The bread is airy inside with a golden, crisp exterior. You’ll want to eat it immediately, preferably while walking.
17. Pasticceria Marchesi – Milan, Italy
Pasticceria Marchesi offers a polished and refined take on Italian pastry tradition. The flavors stay balanced, never tipping into excess. It’s an easy stop when you want something elegant but comforting.
18. Hart Bageri – Copenhagen, Denmark
Hart Bageri has earned international praise for its sourdough and laminated pastries. The techniques feel modern, yet the results stay grounded. You can taste the care in every layer.
19. Meyers Bageri – Copenhagen, Denmark
Meyers Bageri focuses heavily on organic ingredients and Nordic flavors. The breads feel hearty without being dense. It’s a great example of how thoughtful sourcing changes everything.
20. Fabrique – Stockholm, Sweden
Fabrique is known for cardamom buns that are fragrant and perfectly chewy. The atmosphere stays relaxed, even during busy hours. You’ll likely leave with sugar on your fingers and no regrets.
