For many, traveling through France and Italy is a dream come true with their rich history, breathtaking scenery, and—of course—their unique tea customs. Though these nations are more well-known for their coffee, tea drinkers will be pleasantly pleased by the range and quality of tea experiences available. There is lots to discover from little Italian tea houses to Parisian tea salons.
Still, you should keep in touch before starting your tea trip. Having consistent internet access is essential whether you’re seeking for recommendations for the top tea venues in Paris or negotiating the small lanes of Rome. This is when an eSIM comes quite useful. eSIM France makes it simpler for you to navigate your way about and instantly share your experiences with friends and relatives by letting you stay online free from the fuss of SIM card swapping. Also, eSIM Italy can be a terrific fix since it lets you quickly access maps, reviews, and social media free from Wi-Fi concerns. Now, let’s explore the tea customs of France and Italy and identify the best tea cups there are.
Why Tea Culture in France and Italy is Unique
Though these nations have their own unique ideas on tea that are well worth investigating, tea may not be the first thing that springs to mind when considering France and Italy. Since the 17th century, when it first arrived to the French court, tea has been a staple of French society. Nowadays, it’s appreciated as a sophisticated and elegant drink, usually presented in gorgeous tea salons that transport one back in time. Often mixed with herbs and flowers, French teas are renowned for their subdued tastes, which provide a delicate and sophisticated tea-drinking experience.
Italy, on the other hand, is usually a coffee nation, although tea has been making waves particularly lately. Though Italian tea culture is less formal than in France, its lack in tradition makes for great inventiveness. From traditional black and green teas to herbal blends including local components like citrus and mint, Italians savor a great variety of teas. Whether in a trendy tea parlor in Milan or a small café in Florence, tea in Italy is typically savored as part of a laid-back, sociable experience.
Best Tea Shops in France
Paris
Regarding tea in France, Paris is the destination to be. Starting with Mariage Frères, the city hosts some of the most well-known tea stores worldwide. Established in 1854, this famous tea establishment is a must-see for every enthusiast for tea. Mariage Frères is well-known for its large assortment of teas; over 500 kinds come from all throughout the globe. With its old-world elegance and shelves full with exquisitely wrapped teas, the shop itself seems like a museum.
Kusmi Tea is another well-liked location in Paris that presents an alternative experience. Originally started by a Russian family in 1867, Kusmi Tea is well-known for its Russian-inspired combinations, including the Prince Vladimir and Anastasia teas. Although the sleek, colorful stores stand in sharp contrast to the old Mariage Frères, the tea’s quality is as outstanding.
See The Tea Caddy, a little English-style tea room close to Notre-Dame, for something a bit more personal. One of Paris’s first tea rooms, opened in 1928, it provides a laid-back, comfortable setting. Here you may savor a classic afternoon tea including scones, pastries, and—of course—an excellent cup of tea.
Lyon
Lyon, sometimes referred to as France’s gastronomic capital, also boasts some excellent tea cafes. Comprising a small tea parlor with a large range of teas from around the globe, Le Jardin du Thé is After seeing the city, it’s a fantastic spot to unwind and savor a cup of tea. The staff is helpful and eager to suggest teas according on your tastes, so creating a pleasant environment.
Another treasure in Lyon is the brand Dammann Frères, which has historical background going back to 1692. Though small, their Lyon store is loaded with a great assortment of teas. From traditional Earl Grey to more daring tastes like their Jardin Bleu, a fruity black tea with rhubarb and wild strawberry, Dammann Frères is renowned for its perfectly blended teas.
Nice
If you find yourself in Nice, don’t miss La Maison Auer, a sumptuous tea room with 1820-dated background. The business is well-known for its exquisite setting and assortment of excellent teas. This is the ideal spot to relax and savor a peaceful moment accompanied by some beautiful pastries and a cup of tea.
For something somewhat more contemporary, visit Volupté Anytime, a hip tea lounge right in the middle of Nice. From traditional to more creative combinations, they provide a large selection of teas, and their menu also includes gourmet nibbles and desserts. This is a perfect place to unwind and sip a cup of tea while observing the world change.
Best Tea Shops in Italy
Rome
Starting with Babington’s Tea Room, Rome hosts some of the most well-known tea businesses in Italy. Babington’s has been serving tea since 1893, right at the base of the Spanish Steps. Two English women who aimed to introduce some British tea culture to Rome launched the tea parlor, which has grown to be a landmark. From traditional English Breakfast to more unusual combinations, the menu consists on a variety of teas presented in a lovely, old-world environment.
La Via del Tè is a fantastic tea business in Rome that specializes in fine teas from all around the world. The store is renowned for its Italian combinations, which frequently call for locally grown herbs like mint and bergamot. One can get some unusual teas here to keep as mementos.
Florence
Florence’s art and culture are well-known, and its tea stores are not exception. Popular tea house Chicco d’Oro presents a large range of handcrafted teas. The establishment exudes warmth, and the employees are fervent tea drinkers. Whether your taste in tea is refined or you simply want to experiment, you will find plenty to delight here.
See La Terrazza del Principe, a tea parlor with breathtaking Florence views, for a more opulent encounter. This tea selection is first-rate, and the surroundings are quite unique. Following a day of sightseeing, this is the ideal spot to unwind and have a cup of tea.
Milan
Milan boasts various trendy tea cafes in addition to its reputation for design and fashion. Beautiful tea boutique Tea Rose Milano presents a large range of excellent teas. Designed beautifully with an eye for quality and workmanship, the shop Tea Rose Milano is worth a visit whether your search is for a unique present or just for self-treatment.
Cova Montenapoleone, an 1817-dated antique tea room in Milan, is another Offering a sophisticated tea experience, this exquisite tea shop is right in the middle of Milan’s fashion scene A lavish afternoon tea would be perfect here since the tea menu is large and the pastries are excellent.
Useful Advice for Tea Enthusiasts Traveling in France and Italy
Timing is essential to enjoy the greatest tea when visiting France and Italy. If you would want a more subdued experience, try going in the morning or immediately after lunch because most tea stores are busiest in the afternoon.
Learning some basic French and Italian can also help you purchase tea and converse with the residents. In French, “Une tasse de thé, s’il vous plaît” (A cup of tea, please) or in Italian, “Una tazza di tè, per favore,” can travel a lot of distance.
Finally, consider the tea manners of these nations. Tea is sometimes presented in France alongside a slice of lemon, and it’s customary to sip slowly and relish every taste. Usually consumed in Italy in a more laid-back environment, tea is accompanied by a sweet dessert. Accept the local customs, and you will definitely have a remarkable tea time.
Conclusion
Discovering the tea shops of France and Italy provides a unique window into the cultures of these two amazing nations. There is something for every tea enthusiast to appreciate from the trendy tea lounges of Nice and Milan to the old tea houses of Paris and Rome.
Keep in touch with an eSIM to help you quickly find these hidden treasures and share your experiences with loved ones. France and Italy have plenty to offer regardless of your level of tea enjoyment—experienced or new. So pack your luggage, review your French and Italian, and enjoy tasting some of the top tea cafes around Europe.
