From Beans to Bliss: The Best Coffee Havens Worldwide
Sip your way around the globe with our guide to the world's top coffee cities. From Seattle's iconic brews to the aromatic streets of Istanbul, discover the ultimate destinations for coffee enthusiasts. Brew, sip, and explore the world of coffee!
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Welcome to the caffeinated adventure of a lifetime, where every brew is a passport stamp to a world steeped in coffee culture. As a fervent coffee enthusiast, you’ve come to the right place if you are looking to learn about the best places around the world to travel to have the best and finest cup of joe.
My love affair with coffee extends far beyond the realms of a mere beverage but transcends borders and cultures. Whether sipping a Cà Phê Sữa Đá on the streets of Hoi An or indulging in the exotic luwak coffee in the plantations of Bali, I make it a point to dive headfirst into the local coffee scene wherever I travel.
But first, before you go jaunting around the world to go coffee tasting, it’s best to be prepared. Sometimes, the unexpected happens, and you have to be ready. That’s why I recommend Nomad Insurance by SafetyWing for anyone considering a life of travel. Their flexible policies cover incidents in over 185 countries, and I don’t need to provide a travel itinerary in advance. In fact, you can sign up for SafetyWing even if you’re already on the go.
Now, join me as we travel the globe, exploring the coffeehouses of Vienna, savoring the boldness of Cuban Café Cubano in Havana, and dancing through the aromatas of Istanbul. From the coffee plantations of Colombia to the cafes tucked away in the narrow streets of Sarajevo, this journey celebrates the world's coffee landscapes and the cultures that have shaped them.
The Top Destinations in the World for Coffee Lovers
In my world, travel is not complete without indulging in the local coffee scene, and my love for the world's most beloved bean knows no bounds. While there is always a good cup of coffee to be found in any city, some destinations are better known than others for taking their coffee seriously. Keep scrolling to discover more about the best places in the world to travel for coffee lovers, and check out my Travel Shop to steal my city by city guides!
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Adadi Ababa, Ethiopia, is a coffee lover's paradise! In the heart of the Horn of Africa, this city is renowned for its coffee culture that dates back centuries.
Legend has it that coffee was discovered in Ethiopia by an energetic goat herder named Kaldi. The story goes that Kaldi noticed his goats becoming unusually lively after munching on certain berries. Curious, he tried the berries himself and experienced a newfound energy. These berries turned out to be coffee beans; the rest is history!
Adadi Ababa boasts an incredible variety of coffee beans grown in different regions of Ethiopia. From the fruity and floral Yirgacheffe beans to the bold and spicy Sidamo beans, coffee lovers can embark on a taste adventure like no other.
Istanbul, Turkey
Ahoy, coffee enthusiasts! Istanbul, Turkey, is a feast for your eyes and a haven for your taste buds, especially if you're on a caffeine adventure. Served in small cups, this thick, unfiltered coffee is rich, intense, and sometimes sweetened. Don't forget to flip your cup for a fortune-telling surprise at the end. Istanbul even hosts various coffee festivals and events throughout the year, celebrating everything coffee-related.
Seattle, USA
If you're on a quest for the perfect cup of joe, look no further than Seattle, Washington – the coffee lover's mecca of the USA. I recently embarked on a caffeine-fueled journey in Seattle, spending three glorious days hopping around coffee shops, and let me tell you, it's a java paradise.
Your coffee pilgrimage begins at the very spot where it all began – the first-ever Starbucks store in Pike Place Market. Additionally, you have the Starbucks Reserve Roastery, a coffee wonderland where beans are roasted, brewed, and crafted into liquid gold right in front of your eyes.
I spent my days strolling through neighborhoods, sipping on unique blends and single-origin brews. Ballard, Capitol Hill, or Fremont – each district has its own vibe, with local coffee shops serving up distinct flavors and quirky atmospheres. Seattleites take their coffee seriously, but they also embrace the communal aspect of coffee culture. Strike up a conversation with locals at a neighborhood café, and you might find yourself exchanging coffee tips and travel stories.
For more USA coffee destinations, check out my guide here.
Milan, Italy
Another great destination for coffee lovers is Milan, Italy. Milan is the birthplace of espresso, and here, coffee isn't just a beverage – it's an art form. But, for real, the coffeehouses are as stylish as the fashion scene. Be sure to embrace the Italian coffee rituals, like standing at the bar for a quick espresso shot or indulging in a leisurely coffee break in the afternoon. Milanese coffee culture is a blend of tradition and modernity that elevates your coffee-drinking routine.
Havana, Cuba
Havana, Cuba, is steeped in a rich coffee tradition that dates back centuries. As I have a trip to Cuba scheduled for later this year, I'm bubbling with excitement to explore the coffee scene in Havana. Waking up to a huge cup of coffee and a real Cuban cigar will likely be one of the best highlights of my week.
The iconic Café Cubano is a shot of espresso sweetened with sugar, creating a bold and sweet elixir. It's a ritual that reflects the passion and vibrancy of Cuban life. Havana doesn't just stop at traditional coffee; it's also a hub for inventive coffee cocktails. Try a Cafecito, which blends coffee with rum – a delightful fusion that adds a tropical twist to your caffeine fix.
Medellin, Colombia
If your love for coffee is as strong as your desire for adventure, then Medellin, Colombia, is the place to be. World famous for its homegrown coffee beans in the hills surrounding Medellin, the coffee here is a symphony of flavors – fruity, chocolatey, and downright delicious. Medellin is surrounded by coffee plantations, so be sure to take a tour and witness the entire coffee-making process, from planting and harvesting to roasting and brewing.
Plus, if you have ever dreamed of living the Juan Valdez life, you can in Medellin! Visit Juan Valdez Café, Colombia's iconic coffee brand, and indulge in their specialty brews.
Hoi An, Vietnam
Having spent four delightful months living here in 2019 and indulging in the magic of Vietnamese coffee (including the legendary egg coffee!), I can assure you that Hoi An, Vietnam, is a coffee lover's paradise.
If you have yet to try egg coffee, Hoi An is the place to do it! This signature Vietnamese concoction blends strong coffee with a creamy, frothy layer of sweetened egg yolk. It's a dessert and coffee in one – a truly unique and delicious experience.
Another great option is Cà Phê Sữa Đá – Vietnamese iced coffee with sweetened condensed milk. It's a strong coffee with creamy sweetness, perfect for beating the Hoi An heat.
Bali, Indonesia
Selamat pagi, coffee enthusiasts. Bali, Indonesia, is hand down one of the best places in the world for coffee lovers. Having traveled extensively to Bali myself, I can attest that it's not just the beaches and landscapes that captivate your senses – it's the rich and aromatic world of Balinese coffee.
Have you ever heard of the most expensive coffee in the world? Bali is home to the elusive civet cat, whose digestive prowess transforms coffee beans into the legendary luwak coffee. During my time in Bali, I was able to go on two different tours of the Luwak coffee plantations, getting to see the process up close and personal, plus have as many samples and tastings as I wanted.
Additionally, Bali boasts a variety of other coffee beans, each with its distinct flavor profile. From the bold and earthy Robusta to the fruity and floral Arabica, you can explore a spectrum of tastes that reflect the island's diverse terroir. The warmth of Balinese hospitality extends to their coffee culture, where you'll find sipping while also sharing stories and the genuine joy of being in the moment.
Sarajevo, Bosnia & Herzegovina
If you have a heart that beats for both adventure and caffeine, Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina, is your next dream destination. After visiting here a few years ago, I can tell you the coffee scene is an absolute delight.
Sarajevo's coffee culture is influenced by its Ottoman past, bringing you a taste of Turkish coffee magic. The art of brewing and the social aspect of coffee drinking are woven into the city's fabric, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
During my time in Sarajevo, of course, I tested out the Bosnian coffee ritual. Served in dainty copper pots called "džezva," this strong and rich coffee is a cultural experience. Slow down, savor the moment, and let the caffeine-infused magic transport you.
Vienna, Austria
Finally, on our list of the best places in the world for coffee lovers, we have Vienna, Austria. The city isn’t just about waltzing and classical music; it's also a splendid destination for those who adore the aroma of a good cup of coffee. Vienna takes its coffee seriously, with historical coffeehouses set in cozy settings around every corner. Prepare your taste buds for the Melange – Vienna's signature coffee. It's a combination of smooth espresso and frothy milk, topped with a dusting of cocoa.
The world is vast and flavorful for coffee lovers to explore. From the timeless traditions of Istanbul's Turkish coffee to the bold brews of Colombia, these global coffee havens offer a spectrum of tastes, aromas, and experiences. So, whether you're sipping espresso in Milan, enjoying a pour-over in Portland, or tasting exotic coffee in Addis Ababa, the world's diverse coffee cultures are bound to awaken your senses. Coffee enthusiasts, embrace the adventure and savor each cup, as the journey to the next coffee haven is as delightful as the first. Cheers to caffeinated explorations and the pursuit of that perfect brew!