Stop and smell these delicious European cities

I’ll always remember once I was in Istanbul. I used to be within the famous bazaar where each vendor offered me delicious apple tea – to entice me to purchase – and where you may find piles and piles of boxes of Turkey’s famous sweets. Turkish Delight, or “Lokum” because it is named in Turkey, is a gently flavored jelly candy that’s ubiquitous within the country. You can normally find it scented with rose water or cinnamon, orange, vanilla or bergamot.

The scents I experienced on the bazaar were incredible – and imagine it or not, once I was in Paris, I actually discovered a perfume that completely mimics the fabulous scent of the Turkish sweets. When I Serge Lutens Shop – the enduring and fabulous perfume shop – I discovered Rahat Loukouma lush, soft, sweet fragrance of gourmet aromas with almond, mint, rose and pistachio. It smells exactly like Turkish sweets and every time I wear it, I feel like I’m transported right back to that bazaar. I could say that it has proven to be among the best souvenirs ever. (Likewise, there may be also an exciting recent perfume from the posh fragrance house Rosy and seriouscalled Pistachio delightand I have to say – it also jogs my memory of Istanbul. It comprises precious pistachio lentiscus oil, notes of roasted pistachio chips and elegant vanilla. The phenomenal vegan brand offers luxurious, delicate fragrances with 100% transparent, non-toxic and secure ingredients.)

This all got me considering – have you ever ever smelled a specific scent and suddenly felt transported back to a bustling market in Marrakech or a quiet morning on the Amalfi Coast?

Although often neglected, our sense of smell has the special ability to bring us back a few of our fondest travel memories.

A vaping company called HAYPPwith roots in Scandinavia, recently analyzed data from 30 major cities in Europe and elsewhere, comparing their cleanliness rating (EPI, Environmental Performance Index) with the variety of bakeries, perfumeries and flower shops in each city to take you on a fragrant journey through probably the most nice smelling cities on the planet. Here are their delightful results.

1. Athens, Greece

The coveted top spot as one of the best smelling city on the planet goes to Athens in Greece with an odor rating of 8.3 out of 10.

Athens is understood for its vigorous street markets and food culture. The scent of fresh produce, herbs and traditional Greek cuisine permeates the air, creating an unforgettable olfactory experience.

Despite being the smallest city in the highest five, Athens boasts a powerful 31 bakeries per 10 square kilometers, selling all the things from crispy tiropita (cheesecake) to delicious baklava. There are also 31 flower shops and 22 perfume shops per 10 square kilometers. Try it and luxuriate in!

2. Paris, France

French culture places great importance on aesthetics and the appreciation of the senses, including the sense of smell, so it’s no surprise that Paris ranks second in France with an olfactory rating of 8.15 out of 10.

Paris has a wealthy history in the posh perfume industry. The city is home to prestigious perfume houses and boutiques and has 11.62 perfumeries per 10 square kilometers.

Parisians even have a powerful coffee and pastry culture. The inviting smell of freshly brewed coffee and the sweet aroma of pastries and croissants waft from the town’s impressive 11.4 bakeries per 10 square kilometers. Combined with an EPI rating of 62.5 for general cleanliness, locals and visitors alike can stay up for an olfactory adventure.

3. Zurich, Switzerland

Zurich in Switzerland is available in third with an odor rating of 8.1 out of 10. The city’s proximity to the Alps means it advantages from fresh, clean mountain air. Zurich can be known for its high standards of cleanliness; streets, public spaces and transportation systems are meticulously maintained. (And once you’re there, trust me – you absolutely must try one of the best chocolate on the planet on the famous Jump Store – where you’ll love all of the flavors!)

With 12.4 bakeries and 9 perfumeries per 10 square kilometers and a cleanliness EPI rating of 66, Zurich truly embodies the term “Alpine Fresh.”

4. Dublin, Ireland

Fourth place goes to the Irish city of Dublin due to an overall smell rating of seven.9 out of ten.

Especially within the spring and summer months, the town is decorated with colourful flowerbeds and with 10.4 florists and bakeries per 10 square kilometers, it’s a true floral bouquet for the senses.

Dublin can be known for its wealthy pub culture; the malty aroma of the breweries coupled with the smell of traditional Irish pub food adds to the general charm of the town.

5. Luxembourg, Luxembourg

Luxembourg, also often called Luxembourg City, secured fifth place within the rating due to an odor rating of seven.8 out of 10.

Luxembourg City is very talked-about for its well-kept parks and green spaces reminiscent of the Parc Central and the Pétrusse Valley. These areas are wealthy in flora, trees and manicured landscapes, all of which improve air quality.

9 perfumeries and eight bakeries per 10 square kilometers also contribute to the nice scent of the town.

Now breathe in gently and luxuriate in the delicious aromas in your journey there!

For more about my wanderlust and wellness travels please follow me on Instagram at @DebbiKickham.