Travelling as a vegetarian can sometimes seem tricky, especially in countries where meat and seafood dominate local cuisines.
But in all honesty, the world is full of incredible destinations where vegetarians are not just accommodated but celebrated. From cities known for their plant-based dining scenes to countries where vegetarianism is part of the culture, exploring the world as a vegetarian can be both easy and exciting.
Whether you’re an Indian vegetarian or simply someone following a plant-based lifestyle, these destinations promise delicious food, local flavour, and unforgettable experiences.
1. United Kingdom
In recent years, the UK has transformed into a global leader in vegetarian and vegan cuisine.
- Cities like London, Edinburgh, and Bristol are packed with innovative restaurants serving plant-based dishes that rival their meat counterparts.
- With a wide variety of options available, there’s something for everyone. Even traditional British eateries feature vegetarian specials, while supermarkets stock an extensive range of plant-based products.
- With vibrant food festivals and farmers’ markets, United Kingdom is an ideal proof that vegetarian dining can be sumptuous and readily available.
2. Italy
Italian cuisine is naturally welcoming to vegetarians. From north to south, it’s all about fresh ingredients, simple cooking, and big flavours.
- Think wood-fired pizzas, creamy risottos, handmade pasta, and crisp salads — most of which can be enjoyed meat-free.
- Cheeses like mozzarella, ricotta, and parmesan add richness, while olive oil, basil, tomatoes, and seasonal vegetables do the rest.
- Even local eateries across the country offer vegetarian-friendly dishes, making it one of the most convenient European destinations for plant-based travellers.
3. Thailand
At first glance, Thailand’s bustling night markets might seem intimidating for vegetarians — but look closer, and you’ll discover a world of plant-based possibilities.
- Thai cuisine celebrates balance, blending sweet, sour, spicy, and savoury flavours beautifully.
- Dishes like Pad Thai (with tofu), vegetable green curry, papaya salad, and mango sticky rice are widely available.
- In many cities, restaurants and street food vendors happily modify their dishes for vegetarians or vegans.
- Whether you’re dining at a luxury restaurant or a roadside stall, you won’t go hungry in Thailand.
4. Israel
Unlike many people’s imagination, Tel Aviv is often called the ‘Vegan Capital of the World’.
- Israel’s Mediterranean-inspired cuisine is a treasure for vegetarian and vegan travellers.
- Staples like hummus, falafel, shakshuka, baba ganoush, tabbouleh, and fresh salads are widely available and incredibly flavourful.
- The country’s love for fresh produce and plant-based proteins makes dining effortless and satisfying.
- In Israel, vegetarianism isn’t a niche trend — it’s a way of life, and the local food culture reflects that beautifully.
5. Japan
Japan might not seem vegetarian-friendly at first glance, but dig deeper, and you’ll find a growing vegetarian movement — along with a rich culinary heritage that has always embraced vegetables.
- The traditional Buddhist cuisine, focuses on seasonal vegetables, tofu, rice, and seaweed, creating balanced and mindful meals.
- In major cities like Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto, vegetarian and vegan restaurants are flourishing.
- If you are unsure about an ingredient, simply let the staff know what you’d like to avoid — Japanese hospitality ensures you’ll be well taken care of.
6. Greece
Few cuisines rival Greek food when it comes to fresh, wholesome vegetarian options.
- Mediterranean by heart, Greek cuisine revolves around vegetables, olive oil, grains, and legumes.
- Vegetarian travellers can savour dishes like spanakopita (spinach pie), vegetarian moussaka, stuffed vegetables and the classic Greek salad.
- Small, family-run tavernas serve authentic meals made from local ingredients, ensuring you enjoy both flavour and freshness.
- Thanks to the sunny weather, coastal views, and laid-back hospitality, Greece easily earns its place among top vegetarian travel destinations.
Travelling as a vegetarian no longer means compromising on flavour or experience. From the vibrant streets of Bangkok to the ancient tavernas of Greece, the world is more welcoming than ever to plant-based travellers.
So, pack your bags — and your appetite — because these seven vegetarian-friendly destinations promise not just great food, but a deeper cultural connection through every bite.