The 10 best cities for pastries and sweets worldwide

What's the best way to get a taste of the local cuisine when traveling? Visiting a famed restaurant would be one option, but cafés and bakeries often provide equally revealing insights into a country's food culture. Here you can sample typical specialties in an informal atmosphere – whether for breakfast, a small snack or a sweet souvenir for later. Food & Wine magazine has put together a selection of international destinations where irresistable sweets await.

Paris

Was it ever really up for debate whether the French capital deserved a place on this list? Hardly – Paris is considered gold standard of patisserie with its excellent pastries and sweet temptations. From traditional, sweet delicacies to modern "instagrammable" desserts – Paris is still the promised land for pastry aficionados.

Copenhagen

The Danish food scene has been enjoying consistent buzz for some time now – and this also applies to its baked goods. Their huge variety is particularly evident in the capital's popular bakeries, where you can find finely crafted breakfast treats like cardamom croissants or delicate cream puffs. If you prefer intense flavors, try their black licorice, which is even offered as soft ice crea and provides a welcome surprise.

Vienna

Sachertorte, apple strudel and so much more – no wonder the French term some of their favorite baked goods "Viennoiserie". And so, Vienna has also earned its spot as a mecca for desserts and baked goods. Classics such as the famous Sachertorte, a staple at the traditional Viennese coffee house, are just as popular as heartier desserts like Kaiserschmarrn with apple sauce.

Istanbul

When traveling to Turkey, definitely try one of their bakeries, which are famous for offering a large selection of traditional sweets and pastries. Many of the classics are based on wafer-thin phyllo, kataifi or yeast dough and are elevated with syrup or honey. Nuts, especially pistachios, play a central role; in addition to sweets, there are also savory variations such as cheese-filled böreks or savory pastries fresh from the oven.

Lisbon

Although Portuguese cuisine has many flavors, one delicacy clearly takes center stage: Pastéis de Nata. These little tarts of crispy puff pastry with creamy custard filling are a big reason why Portugal made it into the top five of this list. Nevertheless, a variety of other specialties can be discovered in the country's classic patisseries – for example, seasonal classics like bolo rei, the traditional Portuguese king cake, as well as fine pastries.

London

England's penchant for sweets is reflected in the variety of London's pastry shops – especially around Borough Market. You can easily go on a little gourmet tour there: From pistachio pain au chocolat and ginger cake to éclairs, crumbles and handmade cookies and hearty classics such as savory filled pies, it's all here. Sweet or savory – there is something to suit every taste.

Melbourne

Anyone traveling to Melbourne should definitely pay a visit to its bakeries and patisseries – the city is considered a true paradise for foodies. From croissants, cruffins and seasonal specialties to contemporary cakes with unusual flavors, it seems that no dessert is out of bounds. Of course, two Australian classics should not be forgotten: Lamingtons and particularly artful pavlovas – sweet highlights from down under.

Mexico City

With more than 9 million inhabitants, it's no wonder that vibrant Mexico City has fabulous patisseries. Popular neighborhoods like Roma Norte offer scores of classic Mexican baked goods such as conchas and sweet rolls in the morning. In the Polanco district, traditional bakeries not only offer sweets, but also savory specialties. Those who appreciate French-inspired patisserie will enjoy the modern cafés serving delicious tarts, éclairs and particularly creamy versions of the popular San Sebastián cheesecake.

Tokyo

Japan is also considered an epicenter of sophisticated baking – particularly Tokyo with its impressive number of patisseries that combine French techniques with Japanese flavors. Small cakes, cookies and macarons are refined with ingredients such as chocolate and vanilla, as well as local favorites like matcha, black sesame or citrus aromas likebergamot. Some bakeries are known for their artful dessert sandwiches and sweet toast variations, which have gained enduring popularity on social media.

Montreal

Montreal's French connection is clearly visible in its baking tradition: In some of its best bakeries, you will find  classics such as financiers, Paris-Brest or artfully crafted tartlets. In addition, some establishments offer an exciting mix of French and Jewish culinary tradition, offering babka, croissants or other treats. If you want something typically Canadian, grab a Montreal-style bagel or a classic donut with maple syrup glaze – a sweet homage to the Great White North.