Gin Destinations: Where to Sip the World's Best Gin

If you love gin, you probably daydream about traveling to the places that make it. Good news – the world is full of gin hotspots, from small‑batch distilleries tucked in countryside lanes to rooftop bars serving creative botanicals. Below you’ll find a quick guide to the most exciting gin destinations, plus tips on how to make the most of each visit.

Historic Distilleries Worth the Trip

Start your gin journey at a classic distillery. In England, the Bombay Sapphire Distillery in Hampshire offers a behind‑the‑scenes tour where you can see how the iconic blue bottle gets its flavor from ten botanicals. Over in Spain, Gin Mare in Barcelona lets you walk through Mediterranean‑infused recipe labs and taste a fresh tasting flight. For something off the beaten path, head to Hendrick’s Gin in Scotland’s West Lothian – their quirky greenhouse tours are perfect for photo‑hungry travelers.

When you visit a distillery, ask for a ‘masterclass’ session. These usually include a short history, a walk through the copper pot stills, and a hands‑on tasting where you can sniff each botanical separately. Knowing which herb or citrus gives gin its signature note makes the final sip feel like a discovery.

City Bars That Celebrate Gin

After you’ve seen how gin is made, hit the city bars that showcase it. In London, The Ginstitute near Covent Garden runs interactive classes where you blend your own bottle and take it home. New York’s Juniper on the Upper West Side serves a rotating list of over 150 gins, each paired with a tiny bite that highlights the flavor profile.

Don’t overlook smaller scenes. Tokyo’s Bar Orchard mixes Japanese botanicals with classic London dry, creating a unique East‑West hybrid. In Melbourne, Bar Americano hosts a weekly “Gin & Tonic” night where local bartenders experiment with house‑made tonic syrups. These bars often have a “gin passport” card – fill it up and earn a free cocktail or a souvenir.

When you’re at a bar, skip the pre‑made drinks and ask the bartender for a custom cocktail based on your favorite flavors. Most bartenders love a challenge and will craft something you can’t find on the menu.

Ready to plan your gin adventure? Start by picking a region, then map out a mix of distillery tours and bar visits. Book tours in advance – many popular spots fill up quickly, especially on weekends. Pack a small notebook to jot down the botanicals you love; it’ll help you recreate your favorite drinks at home later.

Whether you’re chasing the classic London dry, the herbal Nordic styles, or the bright citrus bursts of Mediterranean gin, the world offers a destination for every palate. Grab your passport, bring a curious palate, and let the gin trail guide you to unforgettable flavors.