Top Vegan-Friendly Destinations for Travelers in 2024
As veganism continues to rise in popularity worldwide, more and more destinations are embracing plant-based lifestyles, making it easier than ever for vegan travelers to enjoy incredible food, diverse cultures, and sustainable tourism experiences. Whether you’re looking for vibrant street food markets, upscale dining experiences, or eco-friendly accommodations, the following cities and regions offer some of the best vegan-friendly options around the globe.
1. Berlin, Germany
Berlin is renowned for being one of the most vegan-friendly cities in the world. With over 100 fully vegan restaurants and numerous options offering plant-based menus, it’s a paradise for vegans.
Why Berlin Is Vegan-Friendly
Vegan eateries: From high-end dining at Kopps to street food at the Vegan Food Market, Berlin caters to all tastes.
Vegan grocery stores: Berlin is home to Veganz, Europe’s first all-vegan supermarket chain, making it easy to stock up on essentials.
Sustainability focus: Many vegan restaurants in Berlin prioritize organic, local, and sustainable ingredients.
Must-Try: Enjoy the famous vegan doner kebab at Vöner or a vegan burger at Brammibal's Donuts.
2. Portland, Oregon, USA
Portland, known for its progressive and eco-conscious culture, is one of the top U.S. cities for vegan dining. The city’s relaxed, nature-loving vibe complements the abundance of plant-based eateries.
Why Portland Is Vegan-Friendly
Diverse vegan offerings: Portland has an extensive range of vegan restaurants, including Farm Spirit and Homegrown Smoker for vegan BBQ.
Food trucks: Portland’s food truck scene offers popular vegan options like Vegan Junk Food and The Bye and Bye.
Eco-conscious focus: Portland’s restaurants prioritize local, organic, and ethically sourced ingredients.
Must-Try: Sample the vegan soft serve at Eb & Bean or brunch at Sweedeedee.
3. Chiang Mai, Thailand
Chiang Mai is a cultural and spiritual hub that also appeals to vegan travelers. The city offers many vegan restaurants with a focus on organic, locally sourced ingredients.
Why Chiang Mai Is Vegan-Friendly
Vegan cafés: With spots like Reform Kafé and Goodsouls Kitchen, Chiang Mai has a thriving vegan café scene.
Plant-based Thai cuisine: Dishes like green curry, pad Thai, and mango sticky rice are easily made vegan.
Vegan retreats: Chiang Mai hosts yoga and wellness retreats with vegan menus.
Must-Try: Try vegan khao soi or mango sticky rice.
4. Los Angeles, California, USA
Los Angeles is known for its health-conscious culture, and the city's vegan scene reflects that, offering everything from casual vegan cafés to upscale dining and vegan fast food chains.
Why Los Angeles Is Vegan-Friendly
Vegan restaurants: LA’s vegan spots include Crossroads Kitchen, a celebrity favorite, and Gracias Madre, known for vegan Mexican cuisine.
Farmer’s markets: The city’s farmer’s markets offer fresh, organic produce.
Vegan festivals: LA hosts events like Vegan Street Fair and Eat Drink Vegan.
Must-Try: Enjoy vegan tacos at Taco Vega or ice cream at Magpies Softserve.
5. London, UK
London has embraced veganism with a variety of plant-based restaurants, cafés, and street food markets, catering to all tastes and budgets.
Why London Is Vegan-Friendly
Vegan variety: London offers iconic spots like Mildreds, alongside newer places like Stem & Glory and Temple of Seitan.
Vegan markets: Markets like Vegan Nights and Borough Market are great for street food and artisanal products.
Eco-conscious dining: Restaurants like Farmacy and The Gate emphasize organic and sustainable ingredients.
Must-Try: Indulge in a vegan full English breakfast at The Breakfast Club or try vegan fish and chips at Unity Diner.
6. Melbourne, Australia
Melbourne’s vibrant culinary scene is rapidly becoming a global leader in plant-based cuisine, with innovative dishes and a strong coffee culture.
Why Melbourne Is Vegan-Friendly
Vegan restaurants: From the casual atmosphere at Smith & Daughters to creative menus at Transformer, Melbourne has plenty of vegan options.
Vegan-friendly neighborhoods: Areas like Fitzroy and Brunswick offer an abundance of vegan eateries and eco-conscious shops.
Ethical focus: Many Melbourne restaurants are committed to zero-waste and sustainability practices.
Must-Try: Try a vegan brunch at Matcha Mylkbar or a burger at The Cornish Arms.
7. Bali, Indonesia
Bali is a spiritual and wellness destination with a thriving vegan scene. Its restaurants and cafés offer creative, nourishing dishes that emphasize local produce.
Why Bali Is Vegan-Friendly
Vegan and raw food cafés: Bali’s Ubud area is known for raw vegan cafés like Alchemy and The Seeds of Life.
Organic dining: Bali’s vegan restaurants focus on local, organic ingredients.
Vegan retreats: Wellness retreats in Bali often feature fully vegan menus, making it a top choice for plant-based travelers.
Must-Try: Enjoy a vegan smoothie bowl or raw vegan pizza at Zest Ubud.
8. India
India is home to one of the largest vegetarian populations in the world, thanks to religious practices like Hinduism, Jainism, and Buddhism. In recent years, veganism has been gaining popularity in major cities.
Why India Is Vegan-Friendly
Cultural plant-based diets: Traditional Indian dishes, like dal, vegetable curries, and biryani, are naturally plant-based or easily adapted.
Urban vegan movement: Cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Bangalore have thriving vegan communities with numerous vegan restaurants.
Vegan alternatives: Many restaurants offer vegan versions of popular dishes like paneer (using tofu) and plant-based lassi.
Must-Try: Try a masala dosa or dal tadka for a flavorful, vegan-friendly meal.
Conclusion
As veganism grows, more cities around the world are stepping up to accommodate plant-based travelers. Whether you're seeking street food in Thailand, upscale dining in Berlin, or traditional vegan dishes in India, these top vegan-friendly destinations offer unforgettable experiences for the conscious traveler. Be sure to explore local markets, sustainable eateries, and indulge in the unique flavors while supporting the planet and enjoying your journey.
