Perk Up Your Travels: 6 Best Places for a Cup of Coffee in Europe

Europe offers so much more than ancient architecture and stunning landscapes — hidden within its cities is a thriving coffee culture just waiting to be explored.

For coffee lovers, why not elevate your next trip by visiting some of the continent’s top coffee capitals?

Whether you prefer sleek, modern espresso bars or traditional, historic cafés, these cities promise more than just a caffeine boost. Each destination delivers a rich and immersive experience that will leave you craving another sip — and another visit.

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Start your morning right. Here are the best places for a cup of coffee in Europe.

1 | Amsterdam
Where History Meets a Perfect Brew

Amsterdam might be famous for its canals, bicycles, and cultural treasures, but its coffee scene is equally notable.

The Dutch capital has long been a hub for coffee lovers, and you’ll find a wonderful blend of trendy cafés and charming old coffee houses scattered throughout the city. The Jordaan district is particularly known for its artisanal coffee shops, where local roasters create bespoke blends.

One must-visit spot is Café de Jaren, a spacious, light-filled café overlooking the Amstel River. With its cosy atmosphere and terrace seating, it’s the perfect place to enjoy a fresh cup of coffee and a classic Dutch apple pie.

For those looking for something more contemporary, Lot Sixty One in the Oud-West district serves some of the best espresso in town, using beans they roast on-site.

Once you’ve soaked in Amsterdam’s coffee culture, travelling between European coffee capitals couldn’t be easier. Consider hopping on the Amsterdam to Paris train for a smooth and scenic journey to your next destination.

2 | Paris
Café Culture at its Finest

Paris is a city synonymous with elegance, art, and, of course, coffee. The French capital has been the birthplace of café culture for centuries, with its iconic terraces providing the perfect setting to people-watch over a café crème or an espresso.

Whether you’re wandering along the historic Boulevard Saint-Germain or taking a break in the Marais district, you’re never far from a superb cup of coffee.

One of the most famous coffee houses in Paris is Café de Flore, located in Saint-Germain-des-Prés. Frequented by literary giants such as Jean-Paul Sartre and Simone de Beauvoir, it remains a Parisian institution.

For a more contemporary experience, head to Coutume, where baristas focus on bringing out the intricate flavours of single-origin beans. Their expertly brewed coffees offer a fresh take on the Parisian café scene.

After experiencing the quintessential coffee culture in Paris, why not continue your European adventure? The train from Paris to London makes it effortless to cross the Channel and discover yet another coffee capital.

Which brings me to…

3 | London
A Global Coffee Powerhouse

London has become a major player in the coffee scene in recent years, with an explosion of independent coffee shops taking the city by storm.

While tea may have been the drink of choice in the past, the capital is now brimming with options for coffee aficionados. From sleek espresso bars in Shoreditch to cosy, book-lined cafés in Notting Hill, London is a true haven for those seeking the perfect brew.

Head to Monmouth Coffee in Covent Garden for a taste of coffee perfection. While here, don’t miss the opportunity of finding the best souvenirs in London. One of the city’s oldest and most beloved coffee roasters, Monmouth is known for its ethically sourced beans and smooth, rich flavours.

For a more intimate setting, Kaffeine in Fitzrovia offers a vibrant atmosphere and expertly made flat whites.

London’s multicultural vibe means you can also explore coffee styles from around the world. Ozone Coffee Roasters, originally from New Zealand, brings antipodean flavours to the capital, with an emphasis on sustainability and quality.

4 | Vienna
The Home of Elegant Coffee Houses

Vienna’s coffee house tradition is so cherished that it’s recognised by UNESCO as part of the city’s intangible cultural heritage.

These grand cafés, many of which have been in operation for over a century, are much more than just places to grab a coffee—they are social institutions. Here, people linger for hours, reading newspapers, meeting friends, or indulging in a slice of cake alongside their coffee.

One of the most iconic spots is Café Central, with its marble pillars, high ceilings, and plush velvet chairs. At Café Central, you can savour a Wiener Melange, a Viennese classic similar to a cappuccino, while soaking in the old-world charm.

Another must-visit is Café Sacher, where a cup of coffee pairs beautifully with a slice of the famous Sacher-Torte.

While Vienna’s historic coffee houses are renowned for their elegance, the city also has a growing third-wave coffee movement. Newer spots like CoffeePirates and Jonas Reindl are making a mark with their locally roasted beans and innovative brewing techniques, offering a fresh take on the city’s rich coffee tradition.

5 | Rome
Espresso in the Eternal City

No list of Europe’s top coffee capitals would be complete without mentioning Rome. Italians take their gelato seriously and their coffee seriously, and in the Eternal City, it’s all about tradition.

Espresso is king here, and there’s a certain ritual to drinking it—quickly, while standing at the bar.

One of the best places to experience this is Sant’Eustachio Il Caffè, where their secret blend of beans and signature roasting method has made them famous across the world. Another notable spot is Tazza d’Oro, located near the Pantheon, where Romans have been enjoying exceptional coffee since 1946.

While ticking off your list of top things to do in Italy, don’t miss the opportunity to try a marocchino, an espresso topped with cocoa powder and milk foam—a favourite among locals. And if you’re feeling adventurous, sample granita di caffè, a refreshing coffee-flavoured granita that’s perfect for the city’s warmer days.

6 | Copenhagen
Nordic Coffee Innovation

Copenhagen has quickly become one of Europe’s most exciting coffee capitals, known for its cutting-edge approach to brewing.

The city’s coffee shops are sleek and minimalist, with a strong focus on sustainability and quality. Coffee here isn’t just a drink—it’s treated like a carefully crafted experience, with baristas who are deeply passionate about their work.

A standout in the local coffee scene is The Coffee Collective, a café and roastery celebrated for its commitment to direct trade and ethical sourcing.

Every cup here is a testament to their dedication to detail. Another must-visit spot is Prolog Coffee Bar, located in the lively meatpacking district. With its relaxed atmosphere and exceptional brews, it’s a popular hangout for both locals and visitors.

Though Copenhagen’s coffee culture is relatively new compared to its European neighbours, it has already made a lasting impression with its fresh, modern take on coffee.

Conclusion

Whether you’re sipping a smooth espresso in a grand Viennese café or enjoying a flat white in a trendy London coffee shop, Europe’s diverse coffee capitals offer something for every coffee enthusiast and digital nomad.

The rich histories, distinct flavours, and innovative brewing techniques across these cities make each stop a unique and unforgettable experience for your taste buds.

So, why not plan your next trip around these caffeine-filled adventures?

Rai