The ultimate bucket list for discerning coffee lovers: 9 best travel destinations to visit

Tatler Asia

23-05-2025

The Coffee Triangle stands as the undisputed epicentre of Colombian coffee culture. Within this region, towns like Salento and Filandia offer a charming introduction. These vibrant paisa communities, with their colourful architecture and streets bustling with artisan shops, were built around the rhythms of coffee production. They also serve as gateways to natural wonders such as the Cocora Valley, famed for its towering wax palms, Colombia's national tree.
However, the core of the experience is found in the numerous coffee farms, or fincas . Many, such as Hacienda Venecia in Manizales and Finca El Ocaso in Salento, offer comprehensive tours. Visitors can often participate in the harvest of ripe coffee cherries, ideally between October and March, and learn firsthand about the critical processes of pulping, drying and roasting, culminating in the tasting of freshly brewed coffee. Some tours also emphasize the sustainable farming techniques being adopted in the region. For a different perspective, the Manizales Coffee Park (Parque del Café) offers a family-friendly take, functioning as an amusement park and cultural centre dedicated to showcasing Colombia's rich coffee heritage through various attractions and exhibits.
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Above Marinilla, Colombia (Photo: Unsplash/Juliana Mayo)
The coffee profile of Colombia is predominantly Arabica, with varieties such as Typica, Bourbon, Caturra and the locally developed Castillo (often referred to simply as 'Colombia') being common.
A truly authentic Colombian coffee experience also involves trying tinto . This is a black coffee, traditionally brewed using a cloth filter, which produces a surprisingly smooth and aromatic brew. It's a common staple in Colombian households and local cafes, offering a taste of everyday coffee culture.
Above Café Tío Conejo, Manizales, Caldas, Colombia (Photo: Unsplash/Dimitri_b)
Above A coffee-picker in Caldas, Colombia (Photo: Pexels/aleinad _0222)
For those whose travel timing aligns, festivals like the National Coffee Festival held in Manizales in January offer a vibrant celebration of the coffee industry and its cultural importance.
The Coffee Triangle is accessible via international flights to a major Colombian city like Bogotá (BOG) or Medellín (MDE), and from there, domestic flights to airports in Armenia (AXM), Pereira (PEI) or Manizales (MZL). Accommodation options are plentiful and varied, ranging from luxury hotels to cosy eco-lodges situated directly on coffee farms. To witness the harvest and participate in picking, the period from October to March is ideal. Ethiopia: the ancient roots of Arabica
Ethiopia holds an almost sacred status in the world of coffee, universally recognised as the birthplace of Coffea arabica . Here, coffee is far more than an agricultural commodity; it is deeply woven into the nation's cultural fabric, history and daily life. The country boasts unparalleled genetic diversity in its coffee, with countless 'heirloom' varieties, many of which still grow wild or semi-wild in its forests. This vast genetic pool is not just a historical curiosity but is considered crucial for the future resilience and diversity of global coffee production. A journey to Ethiopia offers the unique opportunity to witness traditional coffee ceremonies, a vibrant and essential cornerstone of Ethiopian social life.
Several regions within Ethiopia are celebrated for producing beans with unique and highly sought-after flavour profiles. Among the most renowned are Sidamo, Yirgacheffe and Harrar. Yirgacheffe coffees are particularly prized for their bright acidity, light to medium body, and distinctively floral (often jasmine or lavender) and citrusy (lemon, bergamot) notes. Sidamo coffees are also valued for their complexity, typically exhibiting bright acidity alongside fruity (citrus, berry) and sometimes floral or tea-like qualities. Common heirloom varieties found in Sidamo include Kurume, Welicho, and Dega. Harrar coffees offer a contrasting profile, known for their medium to full body, winey acidity, and complex flavour notes that can include blueberry, blackberry and dark chocolate, often with intriguing wild, earthy or spicy undertones.
Experiences for the coffee traveller often involve visits to coffee farms, which are typically smallholder operations where coffee is frequently intercropped with other plants, promoting biodiversity. Some tours may even offer glimpses of coffee growing wild, particularly in regions like Kaffa, often cited as the very birthplace of coffee. These tours usually include visits to local processing stations where beans are prepared post-harvest.
Above An Ethiopian traditional coffee maker known as jebena (Photo: Unsplash/Yosef Futsum)
Above Coffee ceremony from Ethiopia (Photo: Unsplash/Zeynep Sümer)
Central to any cultural immersion is the Ethiopian coffee ceremony, or Buna Tetu , which literally translates to 'Come let's drink coffee'. This is a vital social ritual that involves the roasting of green coffee beans over a brazier, grinding them by hand, brewing the coffee in a traditional clay pot called a jebena and serving it in small, handleless cups. The ceremony is often a lengthy and elaborate affair, signifying hospitality and community, and many tours provide opportunities for visitors to participate. Even in the capital, Addis Ababa, coffee culture thrives, with notable coffee houses like Tomoca Coffee and Kaldis Coffee, vibrant markets and cultural tours that invariably include a coffee component.
Travel to Ethiopia for coffee exploration typically involves multi-day tours, often commencing from Addis Ababa and venturing into key coffee-growing regions such as Jimma (considered the heart of Ethiopia's coffee region), Bonga, Bebeka (home to Ethiopia's largest and oldest coffee estate), Yirga Alem (famous for Sidama coffee) and the renowned Yirgacheffe.
While the allure of visiting coffee's origin and experiencing its ancient traditions is immense for any serious enthusiast, current travel advisories paint a concerning picture. With the exception of Addis Ababa, a high degree of caution is recommended when travelling to the different parts of Ethiopia, due to ongoing civil unrest and security issues. Italy: the art and ritual of espresso
Italy is inextricably linked with espresso, the very soul of its vibrant coffee culture. It was here that the espresso machine was invented, an innovation that fundamentally revolutionised coffee consumption across the globe. Italian coffee culture is steeped in tradition, characterised by iconic historical cafes and a unique way of life that revolves around the local 'bar' (the Italian term for a café). A visit to Italy offers the chance to experience coffee not merely as a beverage, but as a quick, intense and profoundly social ritual that punctuates the rhythm of daily life.
The quintessential Italian coffee experience can be found in its iconic cities. Rome, Milan, Florence and Naples are all prime destinations for the discerning coffee aficionado. In Rome, historic cafes like Sant'Eustachio offer a taste of this rich heritage. Venice holds a special place in coffee history, as it was through this port city that coffee first arrived in Italy from the East in the 16th century; venerable establishments like Caffè Florian stand as testaments to this long history. Milan, while respecting tradition, also features chic, modern coffee bars that showcase contemporary Italian style. Naples is particularly known for its deep-rooted moka pot tradition and its famously strong, rich espresso.
Above Neapolitan espresso in Naples (Photo: Unsplash/Ahtziri Lagarde)
Above A painted sign outside a local bar (coffee shop) in Rome, Italy. (Photo: Unsplash/Gabriella Clare Marino)
The heart of daily coffee consumption is the Italian 'bar'. The classic experience involves ordering and drinking an espresso while standing at the counter. This is typically a quick affair, often lasting just a few minutes and provides a moment for a brief social exchange or a solitary pause. Notably, enjoying coffee this way is usually less expensive than sitting at a table.
Part of the cultural immersion involves learning the unwritten 'rules' of Italian coffee etiquette. For instance, cappuccinos and other milk-based coffees are strictly considered breakfast drinks and are rarely ordered after 11am. Coffee orders are generally kept simple; elaborate flavoured syrups or overly complicated requests are uncommon, as the focus is on the purity of the coffee itself.
While not a café experience, one cannot overlook the ubiquity of the moka pot in Italian households. Invented in the Thirties, this stovetop coffee maker is a symbol of home-brewed tradition, producing a bold and aromatic cup and is a fixture in nearly every Italian home.
Espresso is the undisputed king of Italian coffee. This concentrated shot is valued for its rich crema, intense aroma and powerful flavour. The art of pulling a perfect espresso, achieving the right balance of extraction and consistency, is taken very seriously in Italy.
Travel to Italy's major coffee cities like Rome, Florence, Venice and Milan is generally straightforward. These cities are highly accessible, with well-developed public transportation systems that include features to assist travellers with disabilities. Many of the historic and significant cafes are centrally located and easily reachable by foot or public transport. Vietnam: Robusta resilience and unique brews
Vietnam commands a significant position on the world coffee stage, holding the title of the world's largest producer of Robusta coffee. This makes it an indispensable player in the global coffee industry and a fascinating destination for enthusiasts keen to explore a coffee culture distinctly different from those dominated by Arabica. Introduced by French colonialists in the 1800s, coffee has since become a vital component of the Vietnamese economy and an integral part of daily life. The country offers a unique and robust (in every sense of the word) coffee experience, characterised by strong, dark brews and remarkably innovative preparations.
Above Harvesting coffee beans in Vietnam's highlands (Photo: Unsplash/Quang Nguyen Vinh)
The Central Highlands region is the primary coffee-growing heartland of Vietnam. Buon Ma Thuot, located in Dak Lak province, is often referred to as the 'capital of Vietnamese coffee' and serves as an epicentre for production. Other significant coffee-producing areas within the Central Highlands include Pleiku in Gia Lai province, Da Lat in Lam Dong province (notably known for its Arabica cultivation at higher altitudes), Kontum and Dak Nong. Visitors to these regions can embark on coffee plantation tours to explore vast estates, learn about the cultivation of Robusta (and, in some areas, Arabica) and witness traditional processing methods, which include wet, dry and semi-washed techniques. These tours offer a firsthand experience of the local coffee culture at its source.
Above Inside a coffee and tea farm in Dalat, Vietnam (Photo: Unsplash/Thái An)
Above A cafe in Vietnam (Photo: Unsplash/Quy Nguyen)
Beyond the plantations, Vietnam's bustling cities, particularly Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, are teeming with charming cafes on virtually every corner. These urban centres are perfect for experiencing the country's unique coffee drinks and its characteristic leisurely café culture. One of Hanoi's most famous specialties is Cà Phê Trứng , or egg coffee. This rich, creamy and sweet concoction is made with egg yolk, sugar, sweetened condensed milk, and strong Vietnamese coffee, often described as a 'liquid dessert'. For those interested in learning the craft, egg coffee-making classes are available in cities like Hanoi.
Another ubiquitous and beloved drink is Cà Phê Sữa Đá , or iced coffee with condensed milk. This iconic beverage consists of strong, dark-filtered coffee mixed with sweet condensed milk and poured over a generous amount of ice, providing a refreshing and energising treat. A key element of the traditional coffee experience is the Vietnamese phin filter, a small metal drip filter that sits atop a cup. Witnessing and using the phin is a cherished ritual, symbolising an unhurried approach to coffee and life itself.
Above A sidewalk cafe in Hanoi (Photo: Unsplash/Hieu Tran)
For travellers wishing to explore the coffee lands, the Central Highlands are accessible by air, with airports in Da Lat (Lien Khuong Airport), Buon Ma Thuot and Pleiku offering connections to major cities like Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi. Long-distance buses also connect the region to other parts of the country. Once in the Central Highlands, renting motorbikes or hiring private cars allows for more in-depth exploration, though it's noted that some routes can be challenging but offer stunningly scenic drives through plantations, waterfalls and ethnic villages. Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, the main hubs for experiencing urban café culture, are major international travel gateways. Australia (Melbourne): the global capital of modern coffee innovation
Melbourne has firmly established itself as a global coffee mecca, widely and deservedly regarded as the world's modern coffee capital. This Australian city is celebrated for its incredibly innovative, dynamic and thriving café scene. Australian baristas, particularly those in Melbourne, are renowned internationally for their exceptional skill, creativity and unwavering dedication to quality.
Melbourne is also famously the birthplace of the iconic 'flat white', a coffee beverage that has conquered the world and stands as a testament to the Australian preference for espresso-forward drinks featuring perfectly textured milk.
The heart of Melbourne's coffee experience can be found in its famous laneway cafes. Exploring the city's intricate network of laneways, such as the well-known Degraves Street, reveals a remarkable density of high-quality, independent cafes, each often with its own unique character and loyal following.
A key part of the Melbourne coffee experience is witnessing the high level of barista culture. The skill involved in preparing coffee, especially the meticulous texturing of milk and the creation of intricate latte art, is a common sight and a source of pride. Many baristas hone their craft through extensive training and participate in national and international competitions to showcase their expertise. For those looking to delve deeper, opportunities to participate in coffee cuppings, workshops and other coffee-related events are readily available in Melbourne.
Above Cafes line Degraves Street in Melbourne (Photo: Unsplash/Thomas Pavitte)
The coffee offerings in Melbourne are diverse. Beyond the quintessential flat white, visitors can expect perfectly pulled lattes, cappuccinos with rich foam, strong long blacks (espresso diluted with hot water) and intense piccolos (a ristretto shot with a small amount of steamed milk). Melbourne even boasts its own specific creations, like the 'Magic Coffee', typically a double ristretto shot topped with steamed milk and served in a smaller cup for a more concentrated flavour.
Melbourne is quite accessible. The city's public transportation system, including metropolitan trains, trams and buses, is generally wheelchair accessible, facilitating ease of movement around the city. There is a good availability of accessible accommodation options, and many of Melbourne's key attractions, such as the Royal Botanic Gardens and the Melbourne Museum, are wheelchair-friendly, as are numerous restaurants and cafes. Costa Rica: home to the first and only Starbucks-owned coffee farm
Costa Rica has earned global acclaim not only for its breathtaking natural beauty but also for its unwavering commitment to producing high-quality Arabica coffee and being among the pioneers in sustainable farming practices. The nation's diverse microclimates, enriched by volcanic soil and often high altitudes, conspire to produce a wide and exciting range of coffee flavours, making it a particularly rewarding destination for coffee tours and exploration.
A coffee journey in Costa Rica is often described as a 'coffee adventure', where the pursuit of the perfect cup can be seamlessly combined with immersion in stunning natural landscapes and participation in eco-tourism activities.
Above Costa Rica is home to Hacienda Alsacia, Starbucks' first and only coffee farm located (Photo: courtesy of Starbucks)
Several key coffee-growing regions contribute to Costa Rica's esteemed reputation. Tarrazú is arguably the most famous, renowned for producing some of the world's finest high-altitude Arabica coffees, characterised by their distinct acidity and excellent body. Other important regions, each with its own unique characteristics and flavour profiles, include Monteverde, the Central Valley, the Western Valley, Orosi, Tres Ríos, Brunca, Turrialba and Guanacaste.
The opportunity to visit coffee plantations, or fincas, is a highlight for any coffee enthusiast. Many farms across these regions offer insightful tours where visitors can learn about the entire coffee production cycle, from the nurturing of seedlings to the final brewed cup. A strong emphasis is often placed on sustainability and how the unique microclimate of each farm impacts the coffee's characteristics. Prominent examples of cooperatives that welcome visitors include CoopeTarrazú and Coopedota in the Tarrazú region. Guided coffee tastings, locally known as catas, are an integral part of these tours, allowing visitors to discern the subtle nuances and characteristics of Costa Rican coffee, often enhanced by pairings with local chocolate.
Above Hacienda Alsacia, Costa Rica (Photo: courtesy of Starbucks)
For those wishing to witness the harvest season, the period between December and March is ideal. This is when the coffee-making process is in full swing, and visitors can observe or even participate in the meticulous handpicking of ripe coffee cherries. An interesting addition to Costa Rica's coffee tourism landscape is Hacienda Alsacia, the first and only Starbucks-owned coffee farm. It is open to visitors and offers another perspective on coffee farming, research and development.
The main coffee-growing regions are generally accessible from the capital, San José. Many organised coffee tours offer convenient hotel pickup and drop-off from San José. It is worth noting that some specific tours or fincas may not be fully wheelchair accessible, so it is advisable for travellers with mobility concerns to inquire about accessibility when booking. Japan: meticulous craftsmanship and kissaten charm
Japan presents a captivating and unique duality in its coffee culture, offering a rich tapestry for the discerning enthusiast. Here, the time-honoured tradition of kissaten —charming, old-style Japanese coffee houses—coexists harmoniously with a vibrant, sophisticated and often cutting-edge speciality coffee scene. The Japanese approach to coffee is characterised by meticulous craftsmanship, an almost reverential precision in brewing (particularly evident in pour-over and siphon methods) and a profound appreciation for quality, detail and aesthetics. In Japan, coffee is often treated as an art form, providing an experience that can be serene, refined, and at times, deeply meditative.
Major urban centres like Tokyo and Kyoto serve as prominent hubs for both the traditional Kissaten and the contemporary speciality coffee shop. Exploring Kissaten is like stepping back in time. These establishments, often reflecting the nostalgic ambience of the Showa Era (1926–1989), typically feature vintage décor, dark wood furniture and a tranquil, unhurried atmosphere. Historically, kissaten served as havens for artists, writers and intellectuals, fostering quiet conversation and contemplation. Café Bon in Shinjuku, Tokyo, is an example of such a place, offering a retro Showa-era interior.
Above A cafe in Kawaguchi, Japan (Photo: Unsplash/Mylène Larnaud)
Alongside these bastions of tradition, Japan's third-wave coffee culture thrives. Modern speciality coffee shops emphasise in-house roasting, a diverse selection of single-origin beans from around the world, and the expertise of highly skilled baristas. Notable examples include Onibus Coffee in Nakameguro, Tokyo, known for its minimalist design and dedication to quality, and the internationally recognised % Arabica, with popular outlets in Kyoto, celebrated for its modern aesthetics and commitment to sourcing excellent beans.
Some establishments and workshops teach unique Japanese brewing innovations, such as using Kyusu (traditional Japanese teapots) for coffee preparation, blending ancient ceramic traditions with modern coffee appreciation. For those wishing to engage more deeply, hands-on coffee brewing workshops are available, particularly in cities like Tokyo.
Above A cafe in Japan (Photo: Unsplash/Jasper Wilde)
For travellers, navigating Japan's major cities like Tokyo and Kyoto is facilitated by excellent public transportation systems. The train networks, including the Shinkansen (bullet trains) and local lines, are world-class in terms of efficiency and often feature impressive accessibility provisions such as elevators, ramps and tactile paving for the visually impaired in most metropolitan stations. Many hotels also offer accessible rooms, though it's always advisable to communicate specific needs in advance. Philippines: an archipelago of diverse beans and rich coffee heritage
The Philippines, an archipelago of over 7,000 islands, boasts a rich and evolving coffee heritage that dates back to the Spanish colonial era. What makes the Philippines particularly unique is its ability to cultivate all four commercially viable coffee species: Arabica, Robusta, Liberica (locally known as Barako ) and Excelsa. This diversity, coupled with varied microclimates across its islands, offers a distinctive coffee journey for enthusiasts. The country's coffee scene is a blend of deeply rooted traditions, a growing speciality coffee movement, and a strong local café culture.
Key coffee-growing regions are spread across the country's three main island groups: Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao. In Luzon, the Cordillera Mountains, particularly Benguet and Sagada, are renowned for high-altitude Arabica. Batangas and Cavite in Southern Luzon have a long history with Kapeng Barako (Liberica) and also cultivate Excelsa and Robusta. Amadeo in Cavite is even dubbed the 'Coffee Capital of the Philippines'. Mindanao accounts for a significant portion of the country's total coffee production. Davao is a major producer of Arabica from the slopes of Mount Apo, as well as Robusta, Liberica and Excelsa in its lowlands. Bukidnon is also prominent for both speciality Arabica and fine Robusta, particularly from the foothills of Mount Kitanglad and Mount Kalatungan. The Visayas region also contributes, with areas like Tuburan in Cebu (Robusta) and Murcia in Negros Occidental (fine Robusta) gaining recognition.
For the coffee traveller, the Philippines offers a range of experiences. Farm immersions and agri-tourism are becoming increasingly popular, allowing visitors to learn about coffee production from source to cup. Several local cafes and roasters are gaining international recognition, with establishments like Crema and Cream Coffee Roasters, Yardstick, El Union and Single Origin being featured among the world's best. Events like the Manila Coffee Festival also showcase local beans, farmers and roasters, offering opportunities for tastings and learning.
Travel to coffee farm regions, particularly in mountainous areas, may require specific planning. While major cities have good infrastructure, rural accessibility can vary. For organised tours like those in Amadeo, Cavite, transfers can sometimes be arranged. For exploring regions like Benguet, local transport such as buses and vans are available from hubs like Baguio City, and local tour operators can be hired for more tailored experiences. Turkiye: a timeless brew and a cultural treasure
In Turkiye, coffee is far more than a beverage; it's a cultural institution steeped in centuries of history, a symbol of hospitality and a cherished social ritual. Turkish coffee culture, with its unique preparation and communal traditions, was inscribed on Unesco's Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2013. A journey here offers an immersion into one of the world's oldest and most distinctive coffee traditions.
Coffee was introduced to the Ottoman Empire in the 16th century, quickly becoming integral to court life and spreading through society via kahvehaneler (coffee houses). These coffee houses evolved into vibrant centres for social interaction, intellectual discussion and even political discourse, playing a crucial role in Ottoman urban life. The Ottoman Empire also served as a key conduit for coffee's introduction to Europe.
The heart of Turkish coffee lies in its unique preparation. Finely ground Arabica beans, almost powder-like, are simmered with water (and sugar, if desired) in a special pot called a cezve (often referred to as an ibrik outside Turkiye). The coffee is brewed slowly to develop a rich foam (köpük) on top, which is highly prized. It is served unfiltered in small cups called fincan , with the grounds settling at the bottom. Traditionally, it's accompanied by a glass of water to cleanse the palate and often a piece of Turkish delight ( lokum ). Sweetness levels, from sade (unsweetened) to çok şekerli (very sweet), are specified before brewing.
Above Turkish coffee in Istanbul (Photo: Unsplash/Abdullah Al Mallah)
Above Turkish coffee paired with local sweets (Photo: Unsplash/Victoria Morgan)
Another unique tradition is tasseography (kahve falı), or fortune-telling by interpreting the patterns left by the coffee grounds in the cup.
For the coffee enthusiast, Istanbul is the primary destination. Historic establishments like Kurukahveci Mehmet Efendi, near the Spice Bazaar (since 1871), offer a taste of traditionally roasted coffee. Mandabatmaz Cafe in Beyoglu is famed for its thick Turkish coffee. For a modern take, Kronotrop Coffee Bar & Roastery and Petra Roasting Co provide specialty brews from globally sourced beans. A significant site for coffee tourism is Beta Han in Eminönü, which houses a historic coffee roaster (formerly Tahmis Han) dating back to the 1500s and the Turkish Coffee Museum, showcasing Ottoman-era coffee artifacts and hosting coffee ceremonies. Workshops on Turkish coffee-making and fortune-telling are also available, offering hands-on cultural immersion. Other notable cafes include Fazıl Bey'in Türk Kahvesi, Şark Kahvesi and those in vibrant districts like Nişantaşı, Karaköy and Balat.
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