Foods to try in Europe

So, if you’re planning a Euro trip (or just dreaming of one while eating instant noodles), here are a few foods to try in Europe from 10 countries—one classic, one regional. Grab a snack before reading, because this will make you hungry! 

Must-try foods from 10 European countries

Italy

• Traditional: Pasta Carbonara
  The Roman classic. Simple, creamy, and full of flavor—basically the Italian answer to comfort food.

• Regional: Arancini (Sicily)
  Golden-fried rice balls that are crunchy on the outside and surprise you with a savory filling inside. It is the perfect street food.

France

• Traditional: Boeuf Bourguignon
  This slow-cooked beef stew feels like a warm hug from a French grandma.

• Regional: Tarte Flambée (Alsace)
  A crispy flatbread topped with cream, onions, and bacon. Kind of like a French pizza’s cousin.

Spain

• Traditional: Paella
  Spain’s most iconic dish, often eaten on Sundays. It’s colorful, festive, and meant to be shared. Definitely part of the must-try European dishes !

• Regional: Pulpo a la Gallega (Galicia)
  Tender octopus, simply seasoned. If you’re into seafood, this is a must.

Germany

• Traditional: Bratwurst mit Sauerkraut
  The sausage-and-sauerkraut duo is a German staple, especially during beer garden season.

• Regional: Maultaschen (Swabia)
  Big, juicy dumplings that some call “German ravioli.” Hearty and filling.

Greece

• Traditional: Moussaka
  Layers of love. This baked dish is like a Greek version of lasagna, but with eggplant and a creamy top.

• Regional: Bigos (Also known as Hunter’s Stew)
  A hearty, slow-cooked mix of sauerkraut, fresh cabbage, different meats, and spices. It’s rich, warming, and often made in big batches to serve during holidays and winter months.

Portugal

• Traditional: Bacalhau à Brás
  A codfish dish that shows up in homes, restaurants, and even gas station cafés. Comfort food at its best.

• Regional: Francesinha (Porto)
  A ridiculously over-the-top sandwich with layers of meat and melted cheese, drowned in a spicy sauce. You’ll need a nap after this.

Ireland

• Traditional: Irish Stew
  A warm, slow-cooked mix of lamb, potatoes, carrots, and onions—simple, filling, and the definition of cozy.

• Regional: Boxty (Western Ireland)
  These crispy potato pancakes are a staple in the west, served with anything from smoked salmon to creamy mushrooms.

Poland

• Traditional: Pierogi
  Little dumplings packed with anything from potatoes to fruit. Sweet or savory, always satisfying.

• Regional: Żurek (Silesia)
  A sour rye soup that surprises a lot of first-timers—in a good way.

Belgium

• Traditional: Moules-Frites
  Steamed mussels with crispy fries on the side. So simple, so good.

• Regional: Waterzooi (Ghent)
  A creamy stew that feels fancy but tastes like home-cooked goodness.

Sweden

• Traditional: Köttbullar (Swedish Meatballs)
  Yes, like the IKEA ones—only 10 times better when homemade and served with lingonberry jam.

• Regional: Surströmming (Northern Sweden)
  Fermented herring with a… distinctive smell. Brave foodies only, but a true cultural experience.

Final thoughts on European food

There’s no such thing as “just food” when you’re traveling in Europe. On the contrary, every dish has a story, a region, and usually someone’s proud grandma behind it. So, try the classics, of course, but at the same time, don’t be afraid to go off the beaten plate and ask locals what they eat. That’s where the real magic happens and also, do not forget to browse through our European-food-guide. If you’re curious about how food shapes travel experiences around the world, check out this in-depth article on culinary tourism.

Now you have the knowledge to look for the best foods to try in Europe. Bon appétit, buon appetito, ¡buen provecho!, smaklig måltid!