Top Destinations for Vegans: A Global Guide

The world is a vast and diverse playground for vegans, with each region offering unique culinary and cultural experiences. From the bustling streets of Tel Aviv to the serene rituals of India, here’s your ultimate guide to the best places to be a vegan and find plant-based cuisine.

The Vegan Capital of the World: Tel Aviv, Israel

When it comes to veganism, Tel Aviv, often referred to as the Vegan Capital of the World, stands out. Statistics show that Israel has a larger percentage of vegans and vegetarians per capita than any other country in the modern world first. This is not just a fleeting trend but a movement gaining significant momentum. Tel Aviv is renowned for its vegan cafes, restaurants, and events, making it a haven for those embracing a plant-based lifestyle.

The Vegetarian Heaven: India

India, a country deeply rooted in culinary tradition and spirituality, offers an abundance of vegan options. From the popular and diverse vegetarian dishes to areas that strictly adhere to a plant-based diet, India is an exceptional destination for vegans. Notably, certain regions like Ujjain, located near one of the holiest Hindu temples, Vishnu Devi, are free from non-vegetarian, onion, and garlic. This makes it a perfect paradise for vegans.

A Paradise Beyond Tel Aviv: Germany, UK, and Beyond

Beyond the familiar fronts of Tel Aviv and India, there are numerous European cities and countries ripe for vegan exploration. Germany, in particular, stands out with a high percentage of vegans and vegetarians. Cities like Berlin, Potsdam, Dresden, and Munich offer a wide array of vegan options across various types of eateries, from traditional fast-food stands to high-end cafes. In the UK, especially Brighton, you can find an array of vegan offerings, often referred to as 'Vegan Valhalla.'

Further Explore Vegan Destinations

If you’re interested in experiencing veganism in different global contexts, consider these additional destinations:

Berlin, Germany: My experience has led me to believe Berlin to be the absolute best place for vegans. It’s easier to find vegan options in many cities across Germany, including notable places like Potsdam, Dresden, Munich, Warsaw, and Lublin in Poland, and Pisa, Lucca, and Florence in Italy. Additionally, the Romanian capital, Bucarest, is also a notable spot for vegans. Poland: Cities like Warsaw and Lublin offer a rich vegan scene, with many restaurants serving delicious and inventive plant-based dishes. Italy: Cities in Italy, such as Pisa, Lucca, and Florence, not only serve vegan and vegetarian options but also offer a deep dive into the cultural roots of a plant-based diet.

Additional Options for Vegetarians

For those who appreciate vegetarian cuisine but may not be as strict as vegans, consider exploring these other destinations:

India: For Indian residents and visitors, strict vegetarian options can be found in places like Katra JK near the Vishnoi Devi temple, where non-vegetarian, onion, and garlic are taboo. Additionally, visiting any Sikh gurudwara will lead you to lacto-vegetarian meals, known as Langer, and Gujarat state is a food-lover’s paradise, offering vegetarian dishes without the inclusion of onions and garlic. Poland: Gurudwaras and other religious institutions in Poland often serve only vegetarian food, making them a great option for vege-curious food enthusiasts.

The journey of discovering the best vegan destinations is a continuous one, with new cities and regions constantly embracing and innovating in the plant-based lifestyle. Whether you’re looking for spiritual purity, cultural immersion, or simply delicious and sustainable dining, there’s a global vegan corner for everyone.