Travel often awakens the senses, and our sense of smell is particularly powerful in evoking memories and experiences. Imagine being transported back to a bustling market in Istanbul or a serene morning on the Amalfi Coast simply by catching a familiar scent. Certain cities around the world are renowned for their delightful aromas, offering a sensory journey that complements their visual and cultural appeal. Here, we explore seven of the best-smelling European cities, as identified by a study from the Scandinavian vaping company HAYPP, which analyzed cleanliness and the prevalence of bakeries, perfume shops, and flower shops.
Top 7 Best-Smelling European Cities
1. Athens, Greece
Athens takes the top spot as the nicest-smelling city in the world, with a smell score of 8.3 out of 10. The city’s lively street markets and rich food culture fill the air with the scents of fresh produce, herbs, and traditional Greek dishes. The aroma of crispy Tiropita (cheese pies) and sweet Baklava from its numerous bakeries adds to the olfactory experience.
Despite being one of the smaller cities in the top five, Athens boasts an impressive density of 31 bakeries, 31 flower shops, and 22 perfumeries per 10 square kilometers. These elements combine to create an unforgettable scent landscape that delights both locals and visitors.
2. Paris, France
Paris, a city synonymous with luxury and sensory indulgence, ranks second with a smell score of 8.15 out of 10. The French capital’s deep-rooted fragrance industry, with its numerous perfume houses and boutiques, ensures a rich aromatic experience.
Parisians’ love for coffee and pastries also permeates the air, with 11.4 bakeries per 10 square kilometers offering the inviting scents of freshly brewed coffee and sweet croissants. Coupled with an EPI score of 62.5 for cleanliness, Paris offers an olfactory adventure around every corner.
3. Zurich, Switzerland
Zurich claims third place with a smell score of 8.1 out of 10. The city’s proximity to the Alps provides fresh, clean mountain air, complemented by Zurich’s high standards of cleanliness and maintenance.
With 12.4 bakeries and 9 perfume shops per 10 square kilometers, Zurich offers an enticing blend of aromas. The famous Sprungli store is a must-visit for chocolate lovers, adding to the city’s rich scent profile. Zurich truly embodies the term “Alpine Fresh.”
4. Dublin, Ireland
Dublin, Ireland, ranks fourth with a smell score of 7.9 out of 10. The city’s colorful flower displays, especially during spring and summer, create a delightful floral aroma. With 10.4 florists and bakeries per 10 square kilometers, Dublin offers a bouquet for the senses.
The city’s famous pub culture also contributes to its aromatic appeal, with the malty scent from breweries and traditional Irish pub fare enhancing its charm. Dublin’s combination of floral and malty notes provides a unique and memorable olfactory experience.
5. Luxembourg, Luxembourg
Luxembourg, or Luxembourg City, secures the fifth spot with a smell score of 7.8 out of 10. The city’s well-maintained parks and green spaces, such as Parc Central and Pétrusse Valley, enhance the air quality with their rich flora and trees.
Luxembourg’s pleasant aroma is further boosted by 9 perfume shops and 8 bakeries per 10 square kilometers. These elements create a fragrant atmosphere that complements the city’s picturesque landscapes and well-kept environments.
6. Istanbul, Turkey
Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar offers a sensory overload, with the aromas of spices, teas, and sweets like Turkish Delight (Lokum) filling the air. The fragrant blend of rosewater, cinnamon, orange, and bergamot creates a unique scent profile that leaves a lasting impression. This bustling market is a testament to Istanbul’s rich cultural heritage and vibrant street life.
7. Florence, Italy
Florence, known for its artistic heritage, also delights the senses with its aromatic offerings. The scent of freshly baked biscotti and rich espresso wafts through the air, mingling with the floral notes from the city’s numerous gardens and flower markets. Florence’s olfactory landscape is as captivating as its visual and historical treasures.
Conclusion
These seven European cities offer a feast for the senses, particularly the sense of smell. Whether it’s the fresh mountain air of Zurich, the floral displays of Dublin, or the rich culinary aromas of Athens and Paris, each city provides a unique and memorable olfactory experience. So next time you travel, take a moment to stop and sniff—you might find that the aromas are just as captivating as the sights.
