Journey Through Java: 7 Must-Visit Coffee Adventures Await

If you’re like me, coffee is one of the best parts of the day, especially when you find yourself in places with an incredible coffee culture. All around the world, you’ll find coffee, but the variety of beans, brewing styles, and local specialties are part of what makes traveling as a coffee lover so exciting. Through my travels, I always try to get a taste of the local culture, whether through food or drinks. I’ve compiled a list of some of the best places to indulge in local coffee and coffee culture. Sometimes, it’s not just about how the coffee is prepared or what ingredients are used, but the atmosphere in which it’s enjoyed and the scene that comes with local coffee.

1. Italy 

Italy has some of the best espresso culture in the world, and for good reason. Italian coffee beans are typically dark-roasted arabica beans, giving them a rich, bold flavor. But beyond the beans, Italians have mastered the preparation and art of espresso. They consistently serve up the perfect shot of espresso every time. The coffee culture in Italy is deeply ingrained in their lifestyle. You’ll often find locals at coffee shops enjoying a shot or two in the morning, and many even indulge in an espresso after meals, regardless of the time of day. Italians typically drink their black espresso without sugar or milk, and they sip it slowly rather than downing it in one go. Italian coffee pairs perfectly with their sweet treats and desserts, and no matter where you are—city or village—the espresso will be excellent. High-quality beans and even better espresso production make Italy a must-visit for coffee lovers.

2. Albania

This may be a more surprising entry, but Albania deserves its spot on the list. Not far from Italy, Albania has taken on aspects of Italian coffee culture, using arabica beans, and now boasts one of the highest numbers of coffee shops per capita. After traveling around Albania, I can confidently say there’s a café on almost every corner. Albania ranks among the highest for espresso quality outside of Italy, and it’s common to see locals gathering at cafes with their espresso and cigarettes. Coffee is a huge part of daily life. You can also try Turkish coffee in Albania, reflecting some of the region’s Arabic influences. When you grab an espresso in Albania, you can pair it with a pastry like a borek or just sip on a black espresso like the locals do!

3. Turkey

Coffee culture in Turkey is distinctly different from that in Europe. The focus is on traditional Turkish tea and coffee, both served to perfection. Turkish coffee is prepared using finely ground arabica beans brewed in a special pot called a cezve. The coffee comes out rich and thick, often with a layer of sediment at the bottom. Traditionally, Turkish coffee is served with a small sweet (like Turkish delight or baklava) to balance the bitter taste and a cup of water to help wash down the sediment as you reach the bottom. Turkish coffee is a symbol of hospitality and friendship, and you’ll find locals sharing cups together at all hours. Their tea culture is equally important, with tea often served after meals or with sweets in beautiful teacups. Turkey’s coffee and tea traditions offer a warm, inviting experience that shouldn’t be missed.

4. Hawaii

Hawaii is known for its locally sourced coffee beans, particularly Kona coffee. Grown on the Big Island of Hawaii, Kona coffee thrives in the volcanic soil of a small, rare region known as the Kona Coffee Belt. Because of the limited growing area, Kona coffee is often expensive, but the taste—smooth with a slightly nutty flavor—is well worth it. While most Hawaiian coffee is brewed using drip methods, the flavor of Kona coffee shines through. It’s often blended with local flavors like macadamia nuts, making for a deliciously unique drink. Many cafes around the islands serve either 100% Kona coffee or a blend, depending on the location. If you find yourself in Hawaii, don’t shy away from the price tag—go for the 100% Kona and savor every sip.