10 Must-Try Traditional Non-alcholic European Drinks
Last Updated on March 2, 2023
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Written by Alice from For Travelista
Many European countries are popular for their alcoholic drinks, but don’t think those are the only incredible thirst-quenching European drinks you will find there during your visit.
Yes, Europe is a great place to spend your holiday partying and relaxing with a nice drink in your hand. However, partying and relaxing do not always need to involve alcohol!
Of course, this beautiful continent offers all the favourite sodas we all know and love.
But if you want something more that will represent the place, going for something more traditional would be a lot better!
And luckily, there are many non-alcoholic drinks from different countries across Europe that anyone in the family can enjoy.
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Here’s a list of all our top non-alcoholic European drinks you must try!
Table of Contents
Summer European Drinks
1. Kompot / Origin: Russia
Kompot, which is basically, stewed fruit, is a traditional dessert beverage originating from Russia.
This drink is a combination of different fruits with rich syrup. So, as you can see, the base of this drink is actually fruit.
Among the copious variations of this drink, some of the most favorites include dried fruit, berries, and even preserved fruits – or simply a combination of anything you think is good and edible.
Depending on what kind of fruit is used, the level of sweetness and spicing is typically attuned to make the flavor of the fruit compote the best.
2. Horchata / Origin: Spain
Of course, you’re familiar with the famous alcoholic Spanish drinks like sangria and wine! But what many people don’t know is that there are a lot more than that.
If you are visiting Spain in summer season, you can refresh yourself with one of the best Spanish non-alcoholic drinks – a cooling smooth drink called horchata – or orxata in some parts of the country.
As one of the most popular non-alcoholic drinks in Spain, horchata is typically available in specialized ice cream shops or horchatarias.
It is typically made with rice, almonds, and sugar. This refreshing European beverage is best paired with traditional Spanish dishes and is creamy and sweet enough to be a dessert.
When it comes to non-alcoholic drinks from Spain, horchata is popular with locals and visitors alike is perfect in the summer heat.
3. Caffè Shakerato / Origin: Italy
Italian non-alcoholic beverages will surely capture your heart during your summer visit, and one of the most popular drinks in Europe in the summertime is Caffé Shakerato.
Caffé Shakerato has been really popular during the past decades, and for an apparently good reason.
Better than a regular iced coffee that we love, this drink is made in a cocktail shaker and traditionally served in a champagne flute and martini glass.
It is pleasantly elegant but very simple – by simply mixing freshly-made espresso and sweetener and added ice cubes in a martini shaker, you can easily enjoy this refreshing beverage.
You’ll enjoy a delectably creamy and refreshing dark brown drink, topped with a generous layer of froth.
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4. Apfelschorle / Origin: Germany
Apfelschorle is a popular non-alcoholic German drink made with a combination of sparkling water and apple juice.
Because the sparkling water dilutes the juice, it’s not very sweet and so more revitalizing than drinking a glass of apple juice.
Not just it’s more refreshing, but also does contain less calorie content than apple juice. So, make sure to try this when you visit Germany!
5. Rabarbar Z Miodem / Origin: Poland
Rabarbar Z Miodem is one of the most refreshing Eastern European drinks you’ll want to try when you find yourself exploring Europe.
This unique European beverage is cold elixir which is a combination of rhubarb and honey. It is one of the best thirst quenchers you could have.
The flavor from the rhubarb makes it takes like cranberry juice cocktail, but of course, minus the alcohol.
There are some variations available with includes alcohol like gin, rum, or even wine, but the non-alcoholic version of it is definitely a must-try for everyone.
Winter European Drinks
6. Hot Mulled Cider / Origin: United Kingdom
The UK is popular for its traditional English pubs and bars. But you’ll also find one of the most famous European drinks here.
If you’re in the hunt for non-alcoholic hot drinks from Europe on a cold winter evening, trying fantastic Hot Mulled Cider would be a nice choice for you.
Many pubs have their own secret recipes, so may find that they don’t taste exactly the same as each other.
It is delightful hot apple cider that is flavored with a clove-speckled orange, allspice, nutmeg, and cinnamon.
7. Anijsmelk / Origin: Holland
When it comes to traditional Dutch drinks, non-alcoholic options are abundant.
But one you should not miss is this famous Dutch hot drink called Anijsmelk or Anise Milk. Anijsmelk is a traditional Dutch night-cap.
The warmness offered by the milk as well as the therapeutic qualities of aniseed will make you want to lie down in bed and just be cozy.
The combination of hot milk, sugar, and honey or sugar is just perfect.
This also another drink that is available in different variations, however, original version, which is sugar-free, is made with anise seed that has to be boiled with the milk.
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8. Bicerin / Origin: Italy
If you are looking for warm Italian drinks without alcohol, you will be spoiled for choice in the winter. But a must try is Bicerin.
Bicerin dates back in the 17th century, and until now is one of the best warm non-alcoholic drinks from Europe.
Because never ceases to provide people with comforting warmth throughout the winter months, it is one of the favourite winter European non-alcoholic drinks.
It originated from the Bavareisa is typically made with a shot of espresso, and then a layer of liquid chocolate, and topped with whipped cream that floats on top, which is served hot.
The original recipe, which is still a top secret, has been kept by the café Al Bicerin for many generations.
Bicerin is undoubtedly one of the best non-alcoholic Italian drinks and a must when you visit in the winter.
9. Poppy Seed Milk / Origin: Lithuania
One of the best Eastern Europe drinks in winter is Poppy Seed Milk, which is a favorite by Lithuanians and is typically served with Kūčiukai.
To make this delectable drink, two cups of poppy seeds are soaked for a couple of days in hot water and then crumpled using a pestle and mortar.
This process is done again and again until there is an enormous amount of thick milk is produced, which is then diluted together with cold water.
To make these European beverages even better, they are finished off with honey or sugar to sweeten the taste.
10. Malt og Appelsín / Origin: Iceland
Your winter visit in Icelandic wouldn’t be complete without trying this European beverage: Malt og Appelsín.
It is carbonated, nonalcoholic mixture of Malt Extrakt and orange soda, which will remind you of sweet, unfermented Guinness.
It’s easy to buy an already prepared mixture called Jólabland. Ölgerðin, who make these famous winter non-alcoholic drinks, said that it is dated back more than 60 years.
Although there are variations that contain 1% alcohol, this drink can be enjoyed by both adults and children and is very common during Christmas’ Eve.
Ölgerðin also said that the trick to the Malt and Appelsin mixture is to pour the Appelsin into your glass first, followed by Malt. Or else the froth from the malt will overspill.
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Hi, I’m Alice: A travel blogger, world adventurer, and life lover. Traveling the world a slow pace to immerse myself into what this wonderful world has to offer. Join me in my daily adventures at For Travelista, or on Twitter and learn tricks and tips for a cheaper, less hassle travel journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
When it comes to the most popular drink in Europe, there are two answers really. With alcohol it’s beer, hundreds of different kinds and brands of which can be found across Europe. But the most common drink in Europe without alcohol is definitely coffee – which itself is a close second to beer!
A few of the best non-alcoholic Eastern European beverages include Rabarbar Z Miodem, Poppy Seed Milk and Kompot.
These are only 10 of the best European drinks. It is guaranteed that you will find a lot more European drinks (and food) when you visit for yourself. For now, add these popular European drinks to your must-try things when exploring Europe.
If you like this article about the best European drinks, make sure to visit For Travelista for more tips and suggestions to make your travels a lot more fun and exciting.
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