Are there any traditional pastries or sweets that I should try for breakfast?

When it comes to traditional pastries and sweets for breakfast, there are delightful options that vary by region, each telling a story of local culture and cuisine. In France, for instance, you simply cannot miss the flaky, buttery croissant, often enjoyed alongside a café au lait. The pain au chocolat, with its rich chocolate tucked inside layers of pastry, is another indulgent treat that will satisfy your sweet tooth early in the day. If you find yourself in a boulangerie, the aroma alone will beckon you to try these morning delights.

In Spain, churros are a beloved breakfast choice, typically served with a thick, rich chocolate for dipping. These crispy, fried dough pastries are often enjoyed alongside a cup of café con leche. Meanwhile, in Italy, the cornetto, similar to a croissant but sweeter and often filled with cream or jam, is a popular way to start the day. You'll find locals savoring these treats while standing at the counter of a bustling café, enjoying the vibrant morning atmosphere.

Traveling to Eastern Europe, you might come across the delightful kolaczki, a pastry filled with fruit preserves or sweet cheese, often dusted with powdered sugar. In Greece, the sweet cheese pastry called bougatsa is a favorite, typically enjoyed warm and sprinkled with cinnamon. Each of these pastries not only offers a taste of the region’s culinary tradition but also provides a warm, comforting start to your day, inviting you to explore the local culture further.