13 European cities with amazing cafe culture

This city is most synonymous with European coffee culture, and UNESCO even lists it as an official part of Austrian heritage. The history dates back to the Turkish invasion in the 17th century and the founding of the first few cafes where people of all social statuses could gather, which kicked off Vienna’s love affair with coffee shops — or Kaffeehaus. Today, the Viennese treat the cafes as an extension of their living room, and spending a few hours at one is a must on any visit!

There’s nothing quite like gazing over a warm drink at an Eiffel Tower view and romanticizing your life. Feel the magic as you sit in the same seats as Simone de Beauvoir, Oscar Wilde, F. Scott Fitzgerald, and more! Parisians love to linger over a drink on one of the many terraces around the city, no matter the season.

The Croatian capital is often overlooked in favor of the coast by visitors to the country, but if you’re looking to enjoy a bit of cafe culture, make sure to stop in Zagreb. In recent years, trendy spots have popped up all over the city where you can linger over a cup with friends or set up shop with your laptop. 

Greece’s second city is well worth a visit for numerous reasons, but at the top of the list is the amazing cafe culture! Thessaloniki residents love their cafes (it’s said there’s more per capita here than anywhere else in Europe), and you’ll find coffee shops full at all times. It’s also the birthplace of the frappe — a popular espresso drink nationwide.

As France’s gastronomical capital, it’s no surprise that Lyon has amazing coffee shops! From more traditional cafes akin to those in Paris to student haunts where you’ll find many groups huddled over laptops and mugs. 

Visitors to Albania often head straight to the beaches in the south, but don’t skip Tirana! The quirky capital has plenty to see and do, but even if you prefer to just relax, the many cafes are a perfect place to do so. And due to its proximity to Italy, the coffee is completely on point! Tip: Since smoking inside Albania is still relatively common, perhaps consider sitting outside if that bothers your lungs.

The Tuscan capital is top of many traveler’s lists, and while you’re there, don’t skip cafe time! Most Italian cities are full of bars where you can grab a quick espresso that will probably be the best one you’ve had in your life. However, Florence is unique for the many contemporary coffee shops you’ll find — with Wi-Fi, space to work, and less traditional caffeinated beverages.

Scandinavians are known to be major coffee drinkers, so it’s understandable the major cities would have great coffee shops. Copenhagen is a particularly good place for this as it combines hygge with high-quality beans and sweets. On your next visit, bring a book or a friend and settle in for a few hours!

The German capital is known for many things — historical significance, nightlife, and street food. However, the city also has a great cafe culture that won’t disappoint you. Most hip cafes are located in Mitte and Kreuzberg, but you can find a nice place to sit and sip throughout the city.

The Balkans are featured heavily on this list for a good reason! Their capital cities are amazing places to relax at a cafe. And Sarajevo just might be one of the best, with an entire ritual dedicated to brewing coffee. Enjoy it at many of the numerous coffee shops on every corner. 

The Portuguese capital is a foodie haven, but it also has amazing coffee shops that date back to the introduction of coffee to the country — thanks to the colonization of Brazil. Today, you’ll find Lisbon residents parked on a terrace with a caffeinated beverage at all hours of the day, and they’ll be more than happy for you to join!

Stockholm is home to the tradition of “fika,” which, if you don’t know, is a long tradition of a coffee break. But really, it’s so much more than that. It’s a chance to take a break from a busy day and connect with colleagues, friends, and loved ones. You’ll see Swedes doing that at one of Stockholm’s numerous cafes.

The Italian capital has more than just the Colosseum and gelato, you’ll find many “bars” — what Italians call coffee shops. Take your espresso standing at the bar, or be prepared to pay double for a seat, and remember, it’s unheard of to order a cappuccino in the afternoon!