Coffee and Travel Bucket List: Best Countries for Coffee
Are you a die-hard coffee lover and want to visit the best countries for coffee? Our guide can help!
Hello, fellow coffee lover! If you’re like us, your idea of a perfect travel adventure involves sipping on some of the best brews around the globe. Well, you’ve landed in the right place! Let us take you on a caffeinated journey to explore the best countries for coffee. From bustling city cafes to serene mountain retreats, this coffee travel bucket list has it all. Let’s dive right into the ultimate guide for caffeine enthusiasts.
Table of Contents
1. Italy: The Espresso Capital
Italy is synonymous with espresso. In Italy, coffee culture is deeply rooted in everyday life. One thing is certain, Italians have perfected the art of making coffee. You’ll find it difficult to get a bad cup of coffee in this beautiful country.
Must-Visit Cafes:
- Caffè Florian, Venice: Dating back to 1720, this cafe is one of the oldest cafes in the world. Its grand interiors and rich history make it a must-visit for coffee lovers.
- Sant’Eustachio Il Caffè, Rome: Known for its secret coffee blend, this place offers an unforgettable espresso experience.
Tip: When in Italy, do as the Italians do. Stand at the bar to drink your espresso—it’s cheaper and more authentic!
2. Vietnam: Unique and Flavorful
Vietnamese coffee is famous for its unique preparation methods and flavors. From the popular iced coffee with condensed milk to egg coffee, there’s something for every adventurous coffee drinker.
Must-Visit Spots:
- Hanoi: Try the iconic egg coffee at Cafe Giang and explore the bustling coffee street.
- Ho Chi Minh City: For a modern twist, visit The Workshop or L’Usine for a contemporary coffee experience.
Recommendation: Don’t miss trying coconut coffee—it’s a delicious and refreshing treat, especially in the tropical heat.
3. Ethiopia: Birthplace of Coffee
Ethiopia is where it all began. The country’s coffee culture is rich and diverse, and the traditional coffee ceremony is a must-experience.
Must-Visit Spots:
- Addis Ababa: The capital city offers an array of traditional and modern coffee houses. Tomoca Coffee is a legendary spot you shouldn’t miss.
- Yirgacheffe: Known for its distinctive coffee beans, visiting this region provides a deep dive into Ethiopian coffee traditions.
Tip: Participate in a traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony. It’s a communal and enriching experience that lasts about two hours.
4. Colombia: Coffee Heartland
Colombia is famed for its high-quality coffee beans, and visiting the country gives you a firsthand experience of its coffee-growing regions.
Must-Visit Spots:
- Zona Cafetera: The coffee triangle of Colombia. Tour a coffee plantation, learn about the bean-to-cup process, and enjoy a fresh brew amidst lush landscapes.
- Bogotá: Head to the capital for a modern coffee experience. Check out cafes like Azahar Coffee and Devoción for artisanal brews.
Recommendation: Take a coffee farm tour. It’s educational and you get to taste coffee right where it’s grown! Check out tours like this one located in Medellín or give Tripadvisor’s Colombia coffee farm tour guide a read.
5. Japan: Precision and Innovation
Japan’s coffee culture is all about precision and innovation. From perfectly brewed pour-overs to unique coffee concoctions, it’s a paradise for coffee geeks.
Must-Visit Spots:
- Tokyo: Explore hip coffee spots like Onibus Coffee and Koffee Mameya for meticulously crafted brews.
- Kyoto: Known for its traditional tea culture, Kyoto also boasts excellent coffee shops like % Arabica (Real name, not a typo).
Tip: Experience a siphon coffee. This brewing method is both a visual and sensory delight.
Want to know the Best Food in Tokyo to accompany your coffee journey? Give our detailed guide a read!
6. Brazil: Coffee Powerhouse
As one of the largest coffee producers in the world, Brazil offers diverse and rich coffee experiences. The country’s coffee culture is as vibrant as its carnival.
Must-Visit Spots:
- São Paulo: Known as the business hub, it’s also home to fantastic coffee shops like Coffee Lab and Um Coffee Co.
- Minas Gerais: Visit coffee farms and indulge in the farm-to-cup experience in one of Brazil’s most prominent coffee-growing regions.
Recommendation: Try a cafezinho, a small, strong coffee that Brazilians drink throughout the day.
7. Australia: Coffee Perfection
Australia’s coffee culture is often described as one of the best in the world. The country has a knack for high-quality coffee, and baristas here are regarded as some of the best.
Must-Visit Spots:
- Melbourne: Known as the coffee capital of Australia. Explore cafes like Proud Mary and St. Ali for an exceptional coffee experience.
- Sydney: Check out Single O and Reuben Hills for great coffee in trendy settings.
Tip: Try a flat white—an Australian specialty that’s a perfect balance of espresso and steamed milk.
8. Costa Rica: Sustainable Coffee
Costa Rica is renowned for its eco-friendly coffee farms and sustainable practices. It’s a great destination for those who appreciate both coffee and nature.
Must-Visit Spots:
- San José: The capital city offers a mix of traditional and modern coffee shops. Cafeoteca and Franco are worth a visit.
- Monteverde: Visit coffee plantations in this cloud forest region for an immersive experience.
Recommendation: Opt for a tour at an organic coffee farm to learn about sustainable coffee growing practices.
9. Turkey: Coffee and Tradition
Turkish coffee is more than just a drink; it’s a cultural experience. The method of brewing finely ground coffee in a cezve is a tradition that dates back centuries.
Must-Visit Spots:
- Istanbul: The heart of Turkish coffee culture. Visit historical coffee houses like Mandabatmaz for a thick, rich brew.
- Cappadocia: Enjoy your coffee with a view of the stunning landscapes, especially during a hot air balloon ride.
Tip: Turkish coffee is best enjoyed slowly and accompanied by Turkish delight.
10. United States: Coffee Diversity
The U.S. has a diverse and dynamic coffee culture with an emphasis on innovation and specialty coffee.
Must-Visit Spots:
- Portland, Oregon: Known for its coffee scene. Visit Stumptown Coffee Roasters and Coava Coffee Roasters for top-notch brews.
- New York City: The city that never sleeps is filled with incredible coffee spots like Blue Bottle Coffee and Joe Coffee Company.
Recommendation: Explore different coffee neighborhoods. Each area has its own unique coffee culture and offerings.
FAQ
Q: What are the best countries for coffee?
Some of the best countries for coffee include Italy, Colombia, Ethiopia, Vietnam, Japan, Brazil, Australia, Costa Rica, Turkey, and the United States.
Q: What should I look for in a coffee destination?
Look for a rich coffee culture, unique brewing methods, local specialties, and the opportunity to visit coffee farms or plantations.
Q: How can I experience the local coffee culture when traveling?
Visit popular local cafes, participate in coffee tours or workshops, and try traditional coffee drinks unique to the region.
Ready to Travel?
There you have it—your ultimate coffee and travel bucket list! Each of these destinations offers a unique coffee experience that’s bound to delight any caffeine enthusiast. Whether you’re sipping an espresso in Italy or enjoying a traditional coffee ceremony in Ethiopia, the world of coffee travel is full of exciting experiences and adventures.
So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags, book your tickets, and embark on a journey to explore the best countries for coffee. Don’t forget to share your coffee travel stories with us!
Give our blog a browse for more ideas for your next travel experience. Happy and safe travels friends! 🌍☕
