The famous Inat kuca (House of Spite) restaurant in Sarajevo. Photo / Getty Images
The famous Inat kuca (House of Spite) restaurant in Sarajevo. Photo / Getty Images
When travelling, there is no better way to experience a country's culture than through food.
It would seem Kiwis agree as, according to Booking.com, 41 per cent of them are looking to be more adventurous with the type of cuisine they eat while travelling. Europe, arguably one of the world's most popular destinations for history and culture, is jampacked with all kinds of traditional foods calling out to be tasted.
With the help of Booking.com, we've compiled a list of Europe's best local foodie delights for those Kiwis with a culinary curiosity.
Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina
The ćevapi is made of minced meat prepared and rolled into a cylindrical shape, served with flatbread. Photo / Getty Images
Bosnian cuisine is loved for being hearty, wholesome and homely. The ćevapi is arguably the country's most famous dish and is made of minced meat prepared and rolled into a cylindrical shape, served in a flat bread with onion. Inat Kuća, which translates to the House of Spite, is your one stop shop for all your traditional Bosnian cuisine. Known by the locals as having the best ćevapi in town, this is one foodie delight you certainly don't want to miss. Hungry travellers can also taste a number of 'slow dishes' (the Bosnian take on a stew) which, as with most Bosnian food, is made with natural ingredients like fruits, vegetables and milk and then slow cooked in its own juices.
Where to stay: Conveniently located near to Inat Kuća in the old town of Sarajevo, is the Hotel Old Sarajevo. While paying homage to the traditional facades of the old town, on the inside, this hotel offers the very best of modern style and comfort with a unique Bosnian twist. Immerse yourself in this historically rich culture and experience the very best foods and historic sites in the region.
Colmar, France
French flambée - a take on pizza. Photo / Getty Images
Tucked in the streets of Colmar is the Restaurant La Soi. This quaint restaurant is known for the signature dish of Colmar – the tarte flambée, France's own take on pizza. This (literal) slice of heaven is made of the thin crunch pastry topped with delicious ingredients including fromage blanc (a local French style cheese), crème fraiche, thinly sliced onions and lardons (bacon). The best part, a dessert version is also available with apples, cinnamon or blueberries and then flambéed with a sweet liqueur.
Where to stay: Explore Colmar's rich history by staying in the heart of the city at the Reflets Sur La Lauch. The charming, old town façade is offset by the modern interior that allows guests to unwind and relax in after a long day of trying tarte flambés and soaking in the beauty of France.
Catania, Italy
Italian gelato. Photo / Getty Images
It would be a crime to go to Italy without trying authentic Italian gelato or cannoli pastries. Catania is the ultimate place to visit for those with a serious sweet tooth. The Pasticceria Privitera has been a legendary sweet shop in Catania since 1945. Serving everything from a lemon bombetta with strawberry sauce to cassata, cream pies and of course cannoli.
Where to stay: Immerse yourself in the raw Italian countryside with the Terre del Cardinale Country Suites. With a gorgeous wild orange and olive grove on the property, guests get a taste of the simple life while staying in absolute comfort. Relax by the pool as you indulge in the delights of Catania.
Belgrade, Serbia
Tri Sesira restaurant in Belgrade, which means Three Hats in English. Photo / Getty Images
Meat is the order of the day in Serbia. A staple at every meal, it's no wonder the country is famous for everything from beef and pork patties (known locally as pljeskavica) to schnitzel (also known as Karađorđeva šnicla). If you want real Serbian food, you will want to try gibanica – the region's take on a cheese pie. Head to Tri Sesira, which translates to The Three Hats Restaurants, to get an authentic taste of the best traditional Serbian dishes. As you tuck into your food, sit back and enjoy the sound of international musicians and take in the sights of the romantic, bohemian street.
Where to stay: Transport yourself from the old to the new with the gorgeous and stylish Garni Hotel Zavicaj. Celebrating the best of modern, European style, this hotel is the perfect place to rest while exploring the very best Belgrade has to offer. With simplistic yet comfortable rooms, and easy access to the main centre, it is the ideal spot for any curious traveller to base themselves.
Frankfurt, Germany
Frankfurter Gruene Sosse. Photo / Getty Images
Not necessarily a dish, but certainly famous throughout Frankfurt, is Gruene Sosse (or Green Sauce). Made with eggs, oil and a variety of green herbs including dill, parsley and chives, this sauce goes with everything from meat to potatoes. Want to try a legendary, award-winning version of the dish? Head to Zum Gemalten Haus (The Painted House) and sample the best meats, sauces and cider that Frankfurt has on offer.
Where to stay: The beautiful historic Rocco Forte Villa Kennedy offers you the life of the rich and the famous (even if just for a couple of days). The rooms are stylish and comfortable with a gorgeous indoor pool and spa on site- the ultimate place for guests to rest and relax. Situated only 500 metres from the River Main, the villa is a true oasis amidst the crowds of this bustling city.
