Finding great vegetarian options while traveling can be challenging. However, some destinations excel in providing diverse plant-based options. A recent research by PTPioneer.com identified the top 10 most vegetarian-friendly travel destinations worldwide.
The study analyzed over 30 countries, focusing first on those with the largest vegetarian populations. They then evaluated search volumes for vegetarian restaurants and included additional metrics like meat consumption per capita and listings of vegan and vegetarian restaurants from sources like Happy Cow.
These factors were combined to create a composite score, determining the final rankings. Join us as we explore these top-rated vegetarian-friendly destinations around the world.
India
Composite Score- 70.61
India is a haven for vegetarians, with a large percentage (29.50%) of the population adhering to a vegetarian diet for religious reasons. This translates to an abundance of vegetarian options throughout the country. From regional specialties like dosas and idlis in South India to rich and flavorful curries across the nation, you’ll find a delightful variety of vegetarian cuisine to tantalize your taste buds. Many restaurants are entirely vegetarian, and even street food vendors cater to vegetarians.
United Kingdom
Composite Score- 52.49
The UK has seen a significant rise in vegetarian and vegan options in recent years. Major cities like London offer a plethora of vegetarian and vegan restaurants, cafes, and even fine dining establishments. Across the country, you’ll find a growing selection of vegetarian pub fare and supermarket options. While vegetarian options are becoming more prevalent, they might not be as readily available in smaller towns and villages. It’s a good idea to research vegetarian restaurants in advance if you’re venturing outside major cities.
Germany
Composite Score- 50.21
Germany has a strong meat-and-potato tradition, but vegetarian options are becoming more common. Look for vegetarian versions of classic German dishes like spätzle (pasta dumplings) and potato pancakes. Many restaurants offer vegetarian sausages and schnitzels. Big cities like Berlin offer a wider range of vegetarian and vegan restaurants. Finding vegetarian options can be more challenging in smaller towns. German sausages often contain meat, so be sure to ask about vegetarian options before ordering.
Thailand
Composite Score- 37.54
Thai cuisine is naturally vegetarian-friendly, with an emphasis on vegetables, fruits, tofu, and curries. Many traditional Thai dishes can be made vegetarian by simply omitting the meat or fish sauce. Buddhist vegetarian restaurants are also widely available, offering a variety of meatless options. Fish sauce (nam pla) is a common ingredient in Thai cuisine, so be sure to ask for dishes “เจ” (pronounced ‘jay’ – means vegetarian) or specify “no fish sauce” when ordering. Some curries may contain shrimp paste, so inquire about the ingredients beforehand to avoid consuming nonvegetarian food or if you have seafood allergy.
Italy
Composite Score- 33.39
Italian cuisine is known for its focus on cheese and cured meats. However, there are still plenty of vegetarian options to be found. Look for dishes featuring vegetables, legumes, and cheeses like ricotta and mozzarella. Popular vegetarian choices include pasta dishes like spaghetti aglio e olio (garlic and olive oil) or penne arrabbiata (tomato sauce), pizzas topped with vegetables, and risottos made with mushrooms or vegetables. Parmigiano Reggiano cheese, a common topping for pasta dishes, often contains animal rennet. Be sure to ask for “Formaggio stagionato” (aged cheese) which may use a vegetarian rennet alternative. Brodo (broth) used in soups and risottos might be made with meat, so clarify if it’s vegetarian before ordering.
Japan
Composite Score- 33.02
Japanese cuisine heavily features seafood, but there are vegetarian options available. Look for dishes like hiyayakko (cold tofu with toppings), yasai itame (stir-fried vegetables), and shojin ryori (traditional Buddhist temple cuisine) which is entirely vegetarian. Many restaurants offer vegetarian sushi rolls with cucumber, avocado, and pickled vegetables. Dashi, a ubiquitous broth used in many dishes, is often made with fish or kombu (kelp). It’s a good idea to inquire about the type of dashi used before ordering soups or noodle dishes. Hidden animal products can be found in seemingly vegetarian dishes, like okonomiyaki (savory pancake) which may contain meat flakes (katsuobushi).
Vietnam
Composite Score- 28.99
Vietnamese cuisine offers a wealth of vegetarian options due to Buddhist influences and a focus on fresh vegetables, herbs, and rice. Popular vegetarian dishes include banh mi (sandwiches) with tofu or fried spring rolls, goi cuon (fresh spring rolls) filled with vegetables, and bun cha (vermicelli noodles with vegetables and fried tofu). Fish sauce (nuoc mam) is a common ingredient in Vietnamese cuisine. Be sure to ask for dishes “chay” (pronounced ‘chai’ – meaning vegetarian) or specify “no fish sauce” when ordering. Some vegetarian broths might be flavored with shrimp paste, so inquire about the ingredients if you have a seafood allergy.
Australia
Composite Score- 28.48
Australia has a thriving vegetarian and vegan scene, particularly in major cities like Melbourne and Sydney. You’ll find a wide range of vegetarian and vegan restaurants offering everything from international cuisine to innovative plant-based takes on classic Australian dishes. Supermarkets offer a vast selection of vegetarian and vegan products. While vegetarian options are abundant, be mindful of hidden animal products in dishes like sausage rolls (which might contain meat) or bakery items that may use egg wash.
Canada
Composite Score- 25.46
Canada has a multicultural population with a wide variety of vegetarian cuisine available. From South Asian curries to European-style vegetarian dishes, you’ll find something to tantalize your taste buds. Major cities offer a particularly abundant selection of vegetarian restaurants. While vegetarian options are plentiful, dairy consumption is common in Canada. If you’re vegan, be sure to ask about ingredients or look for vegan-specific restaurants.
France
Composite Score- 23.48
While French cuisine traditionally features meat, vegetarian options are becoming more common. Look for dishes like quiche aux légumes (vegetable quiche), salade Niçoise (vegetarian version), and lentil soup. Many restaurants offer vegetarian appetizers and side dishes, and bigger cities have a wider range of vegetarian restaurants. French cuisine often uses butter and dairy in sauces and dishes. If you’re vegan, be sure to clarify ingredients or seek out vegetarian restaurants with vegan options. Dairy consumption is widespread in France, so finding vegan cheese or milk alternatives might be more challenging outside major cities.