Top Vegan-Friendly Cities to Add to Your Bucket List

Travelling as a vegan used to involve a lot of hope, improvisation, and reading the back of crisp packets. But the world is changing — and in many cities, plant-based living is not just an afterthought, it’s part of the culture.

Here are six cities where veganism has taken root — not as a passing trend, but as something deeper. Whether it’s driven by ethics, religion, environmental values or creative food scenes, these destinations make eating compassionately easy (and enjoyable).

Berlin, Germany

Berlin has long been known for its independent spirit, and its vegan scene is no exception. From vegan currywurst to entire animal-free supermarkets, it’s a city where ethics and experimentation often go hand in hand.

Places to try:

• Kopps – Refined vegan cuisine

• Vöner – Plant-based fast food with Berlin flair

Don’t miss: Vegan supermarkets, ethical fashion, and pop-up animal rights events.

How veganism has grown here:

After the fall of the Berlin Wall, the city became a magnet for alternative thinkers and grassroots movements. By the early 2000s, Berlin had developed a strong culture of political activism and environmental awareness — and veganism naturally found a place within that. Today, it's home to one of the most vibrant vegan communities in Europe.

Tel Aviv, Israel

Tel Aviv is one of the most vegan-friendly cities in the world. Traditional Middle Eastern cuisine already leans heavily on vegetables, pulses, and olive oil — and the city’s growing appetite for ethical living has brought a modern vegan movement to the table as well.

Where to eat:

• Anastasia – Fresh, balanced dishes in a relaxed space

Don’t miss: Vegan street food like shawarma and malabi desserts

How veganism has grown here:

Animal rights activism became especially visible in the early 2010s, partly thanks to public talks and viral content translated into Hebrew. The response was swift — schools, the army, and even supermarkets began adapting. Combined with an already plant-focused diet, the cultural shift toward veganism took hold quickly and with real conviction.

London, UK

London offers everything from high-end plant-based dining to comforting vegan pub food. It’s one of the few cities where you can find a vegan version of almost anything — often on the high street.

Where to eat:

• Unity Diner – Ethically operated with bold, satisfying dishes

• Mildreds – A longstanding favourite across several locations

Don’t miss: Vegan afternoon tea and markets in places like Borough and Camden

A brief history:

The modern vegan movement began here in 1944, when Donald Watson coined the term "vegan." In the last decade, London has seen a surge in interest driven by climate awareness, ethical concerns, and adventurous chefs pushing the plant-based envelope.

Chiang Mai, Thailand

Set among lush mountains and temples, Chiang Mai is known for its gentle pace and wholesome food. Whether you’re eating from a street stall or a quiet garden café, plant-based options are both easy to find and deeply satisfying.

Where to eat:

• Free Bird Café – Supports a social enterprise alongside flavourful meals

• Reform Kafé – Popular with locals and travellers alike

Don’t miss: Vegan cooking classes and plant-based takes on local favourites like khao soi

Cultural and ethical roots:

Thailand’s majority Buddhist population includes many who observe vegetarianism during spiritual festivals or periods of reflection. Chiang Mai in particular has embraced this, and more recently has welcomed vegan cafés, yoga retreats, and sustainable tourism.

Portland, Oregon (USA)

Portland is progressive, green-minded, and known for doing things its own way. That includes veganism, which is woven into the city’s identity — from food trucks to tattoo parlours.

Where to eat:

• Homegrown Smoker – Barbecue-style vegan comfort food

• Doe Donuts – Sweet treats made ethically

Don’t miss: Farmer’s markets, zero-waste shops, and ethical co-ops

What shaped the movement here:

Veganism found a natural home in Portland’s grassroots culture during the 1990s and 2000s. With nearby farm sanctuaries, a strong animal rights scene, and emphasis on sustainable living, the city nurtured a plant-based mindset long before it was mainstream.

Melbourne, Australia

Melbourne’s café scene is unmatched, and so is its vegan offering. Here, ethical living is paired with culinary creativity, resulting in some of the most impressive plant-based menus anywhere.

Where to eat:

• Smith & Daughters – Bold Latin flavours, strong identity

• Transformer – Elegant, imaginative, plant-based dining

Don’t miss: Rooftop bars and neighbourhood brunch spots that serve dairy-free as default

How plant-based living gained momentum:

Australia’s animal welfare conversations took centre stage in the late 2010s, partly driven by local documentaries and investigative journalism. Melbourne embraced the shift early — particularly within its younger, more progressive communities.

Vegan travel no longer means missing out. These cities have embraced plant-based living in thoughtful, exciting, and often delicious ways — whether grounded in long-standing traditions or driven by new movements.

Wherever your travels take you, you can explore with a lighter footprint and a very full plate.