A Tour of Europe’s Iconic Bakeries and Pastry Shops

11 July 2025

Who doesn’t love biting into a flaky croissant, a warm cinnamon bun, or a perfectly crafted macaron? When it comes to baked goods, Europe has some of the most legendary bakeries and pastry shops in the world. From century-old institutions to hidden gems where locals gather for their morning coffee and pastries, this tour will take you through the must-visit spots for every dessert lover.

So, grab a cup of coffee, loosen that belt a notch, and let’s take a delicious journey through Europe’s most iconic bakeries and pastry shops.

1. Angelina – Paris, France

If there’s one place in Paris that pastry enthusiasts must visit, it’s Angelina. Famous for its Mont-Blanc (a decadent chestnut cream dessert) and its rich hot chocolate, this tearoom has been serving sweet delights since 1903.

Walking into Angelina feels like stepping into a masterpiece—elegant chandeliers, marble tables, and a warm, inviting atmosphere. But let’s get real: the star of the show is the hot chocolate "L'Africain". It’s thick, velvety, and incredibly indulgent, almost like sipping melted chocolate bars! Pair it with a pastry, and you’re in dessert heaven.

Must-Try: The Mont-Blanc and hot chocolate

2. Demel – Vienna, Austria

Vienna is synonymous with coffee culture, and no visit would be complete without stopping by Demel, one of the city’s most historic pastry shops. Founded in 1786, it has served Austrian royalty and remains a go-to for classic Viennese desserts.

Ever heard of Sachertorte? Though Café Sacher makes the “official” version, many locals argue that Demel’s is just as good—if not better. This dense chocolate cake, topped with a layer of apricot jam and coated in glossy chocolate glaze, is simple yet divine.

Another must-try? The Apple Strudel. Watch the pastry chefs knead, stretch, and fold the dough into paper-thin layers before baking it fresh in the ovens.

Must-Try: Sachertorte and Apple Strudel

3. Pastéis de Belém – Lisbon, Portugal

In Lisbon, there’s one pastry that rules them all: Pastel de Nata. And no place makes them better than Pastéis de Belém.

This spot has been crafting these golden, custardy delights since 1837 using a secret recipe passed down through generations. These small, flaky tarts have a creamy egg custard filling, beautifully caramelized on top. Add a sprinkle of cinnamon and powdered sugar, and you’ll be licking your fingers in no time.

Warning: One is never enough. You’ll probably find yourself going back for seconds… or thirds!

Must-Try: Pastel de Nata

4. Conditorei Schober – Zurich, Switzerland

Switzerland may be known for its chocolates, but Conditorei Schober proves the Swiss know their way around pastries, too. Nestled in Zurich’s Old Town, this charming café looks like it came straight out of a fairytale.

From buttery croissants to beautifully layered cakes, everything here is made with love. But the real showstopper? The Zuger Kirschtorte—a light sponge cake soaked in cherry brandy, layered with buttercream and nutty meringue.

Pair it with a hot cup of Swiss coffee, and you’ll feel like you’ve uncovered one of Zurich’s best-kept secrets.

Must-Try: Zuger Kirschtorte

5. Pasticceria Marchesi – Milan, Italy

Milan isn’t just about fashion—it’s also home to Pasticceria Marchesi, a bakery with history dating back to 1824. The place oozes old-world charm, complete with marble countertops and pastel-colored interiors.

The specialty here? Panettone—a traditional Italian sweet bread dotted with raisins and candied fruit. Though it’s mostly enjoyed during Christmas, at Marchesi, you can find it year-round, baked to perfection.

If you’re more of a chocolate lover, don’t leave without trying their Gianduja—a heavenly blend of chocolate and hazelnuts that melts in your mouth.

Must-Try: Panettone and Gianduja

6. Konditorei Buchwald – Berlin, Germany

If you have a soft spot for layered cakes, Konditorei Buchwald is calling your name. This family-run bakery has been perfecting its craft since 1852, specializing in one of Germany’s most famous pastries: the Baumkuchen (aka "Tree Cake").

Why the name? Because each thin layer of cake is baked separately, resembling tree rings when sliced. The result is a delicate yet rich cake that pairs beautifully with a warm cup of coffee.

It’s one of those cakes that takes time, patience, and skill—something Konditorei Buchwald has mastered over the years.

Must-Try: Baumkuchen

7. Bageriet – London, England

Tucked away in a quiet London alley, Bageriet brings a taste of Sweden to the heart of England. This small but cozy bakery is known for its Kanelbullar—Swedish cinnamon buns that are soft, buttery, and spiced just right.

Unlike American-style cinnamon rolls, these Swedish buns aren’t drenched in icing. Instead, they have a lightly crisp exterior, with pearl sugar sprinkled on top, making them a perfect balance of sweetness and spice.

If you’re in the mood for something different, try the Semla—a fluffy cardamom bun filled with almond paste and whipped cream.

Must-Try: Kanelbullar and Semla

8. Cukiernia Sowa – Krakow, Poland

Poland might not always be the first country that comes to mind when thinking of pastries, but after one bite at Cukiernia Sowa, that’ll change.

This bakery is famous for its Karpatka—a Polish take on cream puffs. It consists of two layers of crispy choux pastry, filled with velvety custard cream. The best part? The sugar-dusted top, which cracks deliciously with every bite.

Another treat to try? Sernik—a Polish-style cheesecake with a denser texture than its American counterpart, often enhanced with raisins, chocolate, or a crumble topping.

Must-Try: Karpatka and Sernik

Final Thoughts

Europe is a paradise for pastry lovers, offering everything from buttery croissants to centuries-old cakes baked with tradition. Whether you’re sipping on rich hot chocolate in Paris, indulging in a custard tart in Lisbon, or savoring the layers of a Baumkuchen in Berlin, each bite tells a story of history, culture, and craftsmanship.

So, next time you find yourself wandering through the cobblestone streets of a European city, take a detour to a local bakery. You might just discover the best pastry you've ever had!

Bon appétit! Or, as they say in German, Guten Appetit!