Italy is known around the world for its food: rich, comforting, and deeply rooted in tradition. But if you're vegan or vegetarian, you might wonder: will there be enough for me to enjoy? Absolutely. Not only is Italy incredibly welcoming to plant-based diets, but eating this way also naturally aligns with a slower, more sustainable approach to travel - one that honors local ingredients, reduces environmental impact, and connects you more closely with the rhythms of everyday life.

Let’s explore how you can savor Italy’s flavors without compromising your values or your appetite!

Traveling as a vegan or vegetarian in Italy is no longer a quiet compromise. It’s a full-on culinary adventure. Across the country, cities are embracing plant-based living, not only for health and ethical reasons but also as part of a growing movement toward sustainability and conscious consumption. From north to south, you’ll find communities where tradition meets innovation, and where classic recipes are thoughtfully reimagined for modern tastes. Let’s see the most vegan/vegetarian cities in Italy!

Rome is one of the most vibrant cities for plant-based dining. From traditional trattorias offering vegan pasta dishes to modern cafés with plant-based pastries and cappuccinos, the city is evolving fast. Restaurants like Rifugio Romano prove that even classic Roman dishes like carbonara and lasagna can be reimagined without animal products and taste just as indulgent. And if you’re after something cozy and casual for your breakfast, Julietta Pastry and Lab is the perfect place to savor the best Italian patisserie!

And don’t worry, you’ll never be bored in Rome even as a vegan or vegetarian. For example, we especially recommend you experiencing Romeow Cat Bistrot: a special vegan cafè where you can spend your day in a cat lounge - definitely a dream if you’re a cat person!

If you want to visit Rome, we can safely say it’s vegetarian and vegan friendly. We can help you find the best restaurants and stay to accommodate your lifestyle - check out our Rome itineraries or ask us for a personalized itinerary.

Turin may be one of Italy’s best-kept secrets when it comes to plant-based living. It was one of the first cities to actively support vegetarian and vegan initiatives, and today it boasts a thriving scene of eco-conscious eateries and cozy cafés. For lunch or dinner, Mezzaluna is the perfect spot: serving flavorful, seasonal vegan dishes with a homestyle feel and local ingredients that reflect the Piedmont region.

When it comes to breakfast, Tauer Bakery is a standout. Known for its commitment to quality and sustainability, this artisanal bakery offers delicious vegan options, from flaky croissants to hearty seeded loaves - all in a stylish, relaxed setting. It’s a favorite among locals who care about both taste and ethics.

If you’re looking for something a little different, try L’Orto Bistrò. It’s a vegan deli with a buffet-style layout, giving you a chance to sample a wide variety of traditional dishes, all made plant-based. It’s casual, welcoming, and perfect for anyone curious to taste a bit of everything.

Turin is absolutely worth adding to your itinerary and we’d love to help you explore it the vegan way. Ask us about our Turin travel plans or let us tailor a custom itinerary for your trip!

Milan is all about elegance and its vegan food scene is no exception. This city blends creativity, design, and sustainability, especially in the kitchen. Linfa is a must-visit: a fully vegan restaurant with beautifully plated dishes inspired by Mediterranean flavors and a strong eco-conscious ethos.

For your mornings in Milan, many bakeries offer at least one vegan options so don’t be afraid of walking into a random bar! But if you want something special, at Nepà you’ll find a 100% plant-based bakery where you can try all the traditional italian desserts without guilt!

Want a one-of-a-kind Milanese food experience? Treat yourself to dinner at Joia - Europe’s first Michelin-starred vegetarian restaurant. Dining here is like stepping into an art gallery of flavors, textures, and ideas. It’s a culinary experience you’ll never forget.

We’d be happy to help you plan your time in Milan, from the best dining reservations to sustainable hotel options. Reach out to us or browse our Milan itineraries to learn more.

Florence invites you to slow down and savor - and that goes for its plant-based dining, too. One of the top places for a relaxed yet refined vegan meal is Konnubio. The atmosphere is elegant but not intimidating, and the menu offers Tuscan favorites with a fresh, plant-forward twist - a perfect blend of heritage and creativity.

For breakfast, Raw Vegan Firenze is definitely a place to try. Their cold-pressed juices, nut-based treats, and raw granola bowls are energizing and beautifully presented: ideal fuel before a stroll through the historic center or a climb up to Piazzale Michelangelo.

And if you’re craving something truly local and quirky? You must try Tripperia Vegana: a beloved Florence oddity. Here, you can sample vegan lampredotto, a reimagined version of one of Florence’s most iconic (and once off-limits) street foods. The best part? The sandwich is lowered to you from a little basket off a balcony window, giving it all the charm of a secret neighborhood ritual. It’s authentic, playful, and so very Florentine.

Let us help you uncover Florence’s hidden corners and tastiest vegan bites. Whether it’s a guided food tour or a custom trip, we’ll make your Florentine stay unforgettable. See our Florence itineraries or ask us for a personalized consultation.

Venice is a city of mystery and beauty, and while it may not overflow with vegan options, the gems it hides are absolutely worth discovering. For a flavorful, heartwarming meal, head to La Tecia Vegana. This small, welcoming restaurant serves traditional Venetian fare reimagined with plants: think rich risottos, bean-based stews, and homemade desserts.

For breakfast, take a short walk to Pasticceria Giotto, a historic pastry shop that now offers select vegan options. Pair a flaky almond pastry with an espresso and enjoy it canal-side for a peaceful, classic start to your Venetian morning.

And if you're up for a truly authentic local experience, make your way to the Rialto Market. Pick up some fresh produce, olives, and crusty bread, and create your own DIY picnic on one of the quieter bridges or in a campo (Venetian square). It’s a relaxed, sustainable way to eat like a local - and soak in the charm of the floating city.

Planning your visit to Venice? Let us help you craft an itinerary that avoids tourist traps (like this tour) and embraces the city’s quieter, more soulful sides - all tailored to your plant-based preferences.

In Naples, food is a way of life, and even as a vegan or vegetarian, you’ll be warmly welcomed into its bold, flavorful world. Start with a classic: the original pizza marinara, a vegan-friendly legend made with just tomato, garlic, oregano, and olive oil. For something more contemporary, Officina Vegana is your go-to. Their short but inspired menu is built around organic produce and comforting southern flavors.

In the morning, head to Birdy the Bakery: a cheerful café where you can grab a cappuccino with plant-based milk and a freshly baked vegan pastry. It’s the perfect place to sit, in the beautiful Chiaia district, read, and enjoy a quiet start before the city buzzes to life.

Looking for something a bit out of the ordinary? Try a plant-based cooking class where you can learn to make your own Neapolitan-style dough and vegan versions of traditional dishes like parmigiana or crocchè. It’s hands-on, delicious, and gives you a lasting souvenir - the ability to recreate Naples at home. We would love helping you organize that!
Naples is energetic, chaotic, and deeply lovable. Let us guide you to the tastiest corners of this historic city with our tailored travel planning services and sustainable foodie tours.

Palermo is a feast for the senses and for plant-based travelers, it’s a delicious, welcoming adventure. The city's bold, sun-soaked flavors translate beautifully into vegan and vegetarian dishes rooted in tradition.

For a meal that blends rustic charm with creative plant-based cuisine, book a table at Atipico.This cozy, modern restaurant puts a fresh spin on Sicilian classics, with plenty of vegan-friendly options on the menu, including pastas, veggie antipasti, and vibrant seasonal mains.

For breakfast or a sweet break during the day, head straight to Matteotti Café, a fully vegan bakery and café loved by locals. Here you’ll find a mouthwatering selection of cornetti, cakes, cookies, and even savory options - all made in-house, and all entirely plant-based. Their pistachio and almond treats are especially worth a try.

Looking for street food? Palermo has you covered. Try pane e panelle, a humble but addictive sandwich made with fried chickpea flour patties served on soft local bread - naturally vegan and found in markets and street stalls across the city. For vegan arancini, visit Ke Palle, a popular street food spot that offers several plant-based varieties of these beloved rice balls, including veggie-packed or tomato-based fillings.

Palermo is a city where food tells stories, and we can help you taste every chapter. Let us design a plant-based Palermo itinerary that connects you with the local flavors, the right accommodations, and unforgettable experiences - all at your pace, and on your terms. Also check out our Sicily itineraries to get an idea of what you could experience!

One of the most delightful surprises about traveling in Italy as a vegan or vegetarian is just how many traditional dishes are naturally plant-based: no substitutions or special requests needed. These are time-tested recipes born from the Italian “cucina povera” (peasant cooking), where simplicity and seasonal ingredients shine. Here are some delicious examples you’ll want to seek out during your travels:

• Pizza Marinara: a Naples original - and 100% vegan by default. Just a thin base of dough topped with tomato sauce, garlic, oregano, and olive oil. No cheese, no problem - this is pizza in its purest form.
• Pane e Panelle: a Sicilian street food staple. Chickpea flour is turned into savory fritters and served inside a soft roll, sometimes with a squeeze of lemon. Crunchy, warm, and incredibly satisfying.
• Farinata: a golden, oven-baked chickpea flour pancake from Liguria. Crispy on the outside, soft inside - it's often sold by the slice and makes for a perfect snack on the go.
• Pasta e Ceci: comfort food at its best. This rustic dish of pasta and chickpeas is a staple in many regions and often made with just olive oil, garlic, rosemary, and a pinch of chili.
• Spaghetti Aglio e Olio: a late-night classic from Naples. Spaghetti tossed with garlic sautéed in olive oil and a sprinkle of chili flakes - it’s bold, simple, and quick.
• Focaccia Ligure: another Ligurian classic, this fluffy, olive oil-rich bread is naturally vegan and often topped with rosemary or coarse salt. In other regions, you’ll find variations with tomatoes, olives, or onions. On the topic of focaccia, we also recommend Focaccia Barese found in Bari - Puglia - truly outstanding!

• Ribollita: a Tuscan soup made from bread and vegetables - usually kale, carrots, beans, and onions - stewed into something deeply hearty. A shining example of no-waste cooking and full of soul.
• Pappa al Pomodoro: another Tuscan gem. A thick tomato and bread soup made with fresh basil and good olive oil. It’s humble, comforting, and rich in flavor.
• Caponata: Sicilian cuisine shines again with this sweet-and-sour eggplant dish, usually served as an appetizer. Made with capers, olives, celery, and tomatoes — it’s a celebration of vegetables.
• Polenta con Funghi: creamy polenta served with a mushroom ragù - rich, earthy, and traditionally made without dairy or meat.

• Peperonata: stewed peppers with onions and tomatoes, often served cold or as a side. Naturally sweet, silky, and perfect on toasted bread.
• Granita: for dessert, you can’t go wrong with a fruit-based Sicilian granita - especially lemon or almond. It’s dairy-free, refreshing, and ideal for hot afternoons. Also many gelaterias in Italy offer vegan flavors - check out our Gelato guide!

These dishes are proof that you don’t need to reinvent Italian cuisine to enjoy it as a vegan. You just need to know what to look for - and we’re here to help with that. Our itineraries can guide you to the most authentic, plant-based bites across Italy’s diverse regions. Just bring your appetite - we got the rest. Ask us to make your perfect itinerary!

Eating plant-based in Italy is easier than you might think, but a few tips can help make the experience even smoother - and tastier!

• Learn a few key phrases: a little Italian goes a long way. Saying “Sono vegano/a” (I’m vegan) or “Senza formaggio, per favore” (Without cheese, please) is always appreciated and helps avoid confusion. Locals are generally kind and accommodating when they understand your needs.
• Choose dried pasta when in doubt: Italy is pasta paradise - but fresh varieties often contain egg. Stick to pasta secca (dried pasta), which is traditionally made with just semolina and water. It’s served everywhere and pairs perfectly with many plant-based sauces.

• Visit local markets: from the morning buzz of a farmer’s stand to the colorful displays of fruit, olives, and breads, local markets are a must. Not only are they budget-friendly, but they also offer an authentic taste of regional flavors - perfect for building your own picnic or quick snack on the go.
• Use apps to find hidden gems: tools like HappyCow, Google Maps, and even TripAdvisor (with filters!) can help you locate vegan-friendly spots across big cities and smaller towns alike. Look for recent reviews and check opening hours - things can change seasonally.

Don’t be shy - just ask!: even if a dish isn’t listed as vegan, many Italian restaurants will gladly adapt something for you. A plate of grilled vegetables, a tomato-based pasta, or a fresh salad can often be customized with just a polite request and a warm smile.

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