Discover the Best Ice Cream Cities in Europe

Study reveals where to scoop up the best ice cream in Europe

During the summer months, indulging in delicious ice cream is a beloved pastime, whether basking in a southern European heatwave or eagerly awaiting clearer skies in Britain. However, have you ever pondered which cities offer the finest ice cream? From sun-kissed coasts to historic urban centers, these culinary havens excel in ice cream, gelato, and sorbet.

Recently analyzed data reveals the top European cities for savoring some of the best-rated and most diverse ice cream options available this summer.

The Pinnacle of Ice Cream: Milan

It’s official! The best and most varied ice cream options can be found in Milan, a hub of European fashion. Milan captivates ice cream aficionados with rich and creamy creations, boasting gelaterias along every street. This city’s ice cream scene not only honors traditional flavors like silky pistachio and rich dark chocolate but also embraces creative concoctions such as saffron and ricotta. Whether wandering through fashionable streets or enjoying a scoop in a renowned piazza, Milan ensures a tantalizing ice cream experience that reflects its culinary artistry.

🍦 Most iconic flavor: Stracciatella
💡 Best parlour: SBAM Gelati Ozanam
⭐ Parlour rating: 5*

Second Place: Turin

Next is the picturesque city of Turin, located in the Piedmont region and celebrated as Europe’s second-best city for ice cream. Renowned for its extensive traditions in chocolate and hazelnut, Turin’s gelaterias offer a delightful range of creamy treats. Visitors can savor classic flavors like gianduja and stracciatella or experiment with innovative tastes like lavender and honey, all amidst the city’s stunning architecture.

🍦 Most iconic flavor: Hazelnut
💡 Best parlour: Gelato & Macaron
⭐ Parlour rating: 5*

Third Place: Genoa

Remaining in Italy, Genoa, the port city, ranks third for ice cream enthusiasts. It features charming gelaterias serving a mouthwatering variety of frozen treats. Genoa’s ice cream scene artfully blends tradition with creativity, showcasing flavors from classic, creamy hazelnut to artisanal delights like basil and balsamic vinegar.

🍦 Most iconic flavor: Chocolate
💡 Best parlour: U gelato du Caruggiu
⭐ Parlour rating: 4.8*

Fourth Place: Rome

The Eternal City, known for its rich culinary scene, proudly claims the fourth position. Rome’s gelaterias offer a delightful assortment of ice cream within its historic sites. Enjoying handcrafted gelato amidst ancient ruins is a quintessential part of Rome’s cultural allure, particularly at renowned spots like Giolitti and Sweety Gelato.

🍦 Most iconic flavor: Pistachio
💡 Best parlour: Gelateria Sweet Life
⭐ Parlour rating: 4.9*

Fifth Place: Málaga

Málaga, a sun-drenched jewel on the Costa del Sol, represents Spain as the fifth-best city for ice cream. With its vibrant Mediterranean atmosphere, this city features an array of tempting ice cream shops. From classic Spanish flavors like churros and dulce de leche to exotic blends such as mango and passion fruit, Málaga’s ice cream offerings reflect a wonderful mix of tradition and innovation.

🍦 Most iconic flavor: Turrón
💡 Best parlour: Nitte Gelato Soho
⭐ Parlour rating: 5*

The Best in the UK: Dundee

Dundee has emerged as the top destination in the UK for ice cream lovers! Experience freshly made gelato at Casa Di Gelato, which uses a traditional family recipe from Italy, including vegan options. Alternatively, indulge in the homemade ice cream at Davie’s Cafe and Ice Cream Parlour, featuring unique toppings and flavors. Jannetta’s Gelateria, serving ice cream since 1908, boasts more than 100 flavors, ensuring Dundee remains a paradise for ice cream lovers. Enjoy a cone and savor the delightful weather!

2nd Place in the UK: Aberdeen

Second on the list is Aberdeen, which offers a range of ice cream shops focusing on quality and innovation. Mackie’s 19.2 uses milk from its local farms to create flavors like salted caramel and even whisky! For fresh gelato made daily, visit Forest Farm, while Reddy’s Marvellous Dessert Parlour serves decadent sundaes and treats, making Aberdeen a cool summer destination.

3rd Place in the UK: Oxford

The charming city of Oxford takes third place for sweet treats, with various ice cream shops catering to all cravings—from cones to cakes. George & Davis, an iconic ice cream café, has been serving homemade delights since 1992. For modern flavors using fresh and local ingredients, Swoon Gelato is not to be missed.

4th Place in the UK: Glasgow

Glasgow ranks fourth for ice cream aficionados, with a rich history tied to Italian ice cream cafés. The city blends traditional scoops with unique flavors, including exotic desserts like gelato and Korean bingsu. Numerous parlors such as Deesserts and Ginesi’s Artisan Gelato ensure that ice cream lovers find their perfect treat in this vibrant city.

5th Place in the UK: Stoke-on-Trent

And finally, Stoke-on-Trent invites ice cream lovers to Bobby’s Ice Cream Parlour for delightful pastries and vegan selections. Meanwhile, Sweet Moments Stoke offers a variety of gelato rolls and unique flavors, making it an enticing spot for a cool treat.

This ranking was created using Google Maps data, specifically analyzing cities with significant populations to determine the most ice cream shops per capita. Such efforts highlight the delightful culture of ice cream across Europe.