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21 Top Foodie Destinations Around the World

If you love food and want to explore some really fantastic foodie destinations, we’ve got the list for you! Adding culinary activities to your vacation itinerary is one of the best ways to experience the culture of the destination you’re in. 

This list contains 21 of the best places to go for foodie vacations. If there’s one thing we truly believe here at Savored Journeys, it’s that eating well and traveling well go together like… well, you can’t have one with the other, as they say.

» Looking for awesome dining experiences to travel for? Try these 10 Most Remote Dining Locations . You might like How to Recreate International Dishes at Home.

For us, it’s part of the experience to taste the  tapas in Barcelona , the sushi in Tokyo , chocolate in Switzerland, and that incredibly delicious sauerkraut soup in Prague . That’s why we make it a priority to visit top foodie destinations around the world. If you agree, then you’re probably a foodie traveler, just like we are.

We make food a priority during our travels, in order to experience the culture, learn about the people, and immerse ourselves in what makes this place unique. Yes, we believe you can do all of that through food.

Read more about our favorite foodie cities: Paris | London | Bologna

Table of Contents

Why We Travel For Food And So Should You

Culinary vacations are becoming more popular now than ever before. We’ve all started to realize that many of our favorite things to do on vacation and the strongest memories we take back home with us have to do with food.

Maybe you took a really great food tour , or you learned to make pasta in Italy, or you ate at a particularly amazing fine dining restaurant. Those are all cherished memories now.

Have you ever noticed how even the faint aroma of something you ate on vacation instantly takes you back to when you experienced it? Tasting an Argentinian Malbec transports me to a tasting room in Mendoza . The smell of galangal and lime instantly brings to mind the Thai cooking class we took in Chiang Mai.

Even the sight of choclo (really large corn) gets me excited for the intense flavors of Peruvian food . Just ask Nick – “big corn”, makes me unreasonably excited. Food is powerful. It’s what makes us who we are as a people. It is an essential part of life and community.

In fact, I seriously question whether you can experience the real, authentic side of a culture without experiencing the food.

After all, what is Thailand without a plate of Pad Thai, China without Dim Sum, Canada without poutine, Mexico without street tacos?

Indulging in Michelin starred restaurants , veering off the beaten path to where they make the best fried noodles, immersing yourself in pasta making in Chianti, or even accepting a dare to eat balut in the Philippines – these are the things vibrant memories are made of. Check out these vegetarian food experiences too!

Top Foodie Vacations Around the World

We are always searching for culinary vacations that promise incredible dining options, fun food-inspired experiences and some really good wine to wash it all down with.

And while there are so many great locations around the world that satisfy that craving, some stand out more than others in the culinary department. I have to admit, even picking only 21 destinations that we think are foodie heaven is hard – there are so many!

When it comes to foodie destinations, the best ones have irresistible food that’s you can’t find anywhere else. Some will immediately come to mind, like Italy and Spain. Others you have to search a little for.

1. Mendoza, Argentina

Some of the best wines come out of Mendoza, but did you know about its culinary scene? Mendoza is a perfect spot for foodies who want to enjoy all three of pillars of good travel in one destination: good food, wine and adventures.

Many of the top wineries in the region serve impressive multi-course wine lunches from their winery restaurants that have often have breathtaking views of the Andes from every seat and include as much wine as you want to drink.

Visit these wineries and restaurants for a complete foodie experience in Mendoza:

• Bodega Ruca Malen (lunch and wine tasting)
• Andeluna Cellars (lunch and wine tasting)
• The Vines of Mendoza (for a comprehensive tasting)
• Siete Fuegos (Fine dining on an open fire — and stay at The Vines Resort & Spa – check prices and read reviews )

Tours you may enjoy:

• All day, small group, luxury wine tour with gourmet lunch
• Maipú Wine-Tasting Tour from Mendoza Including Trapiche Winery

2. Paris, France

When people plan their trips to Paris, they tend to forget that the city is a foodie paradise, even though it’s in France. There are so many fun food things to do in Paris that will enhance your sightseeing, help you build lasting memories, and create a diverse and interesting itinerary. 

With so many delicious French foods to try, croissants and Croque Monsieurs belong right there alongside the Eiffel Tower and Sacre-Coeur. No vacation to the French capital is complete without trying the foods that make the country so unique – yes, escargot and frog’s legs included!

Whether that’s a stop off one of Paris’ many street food markets to check out the products, at a local crepe stand, or on a full-day food tour , there are many ways to taste and enjoy Paris.

If you have extra time, you can also get outside of the city to either the Bordeaux wine regio n or Champagne wine region . Reims and Epernay are two of the main Champagne cities to visit to learn more about French wines .

Tours you might enjoy:

• Montmartre Hill Sweet & Savory French Gourmet Food & Wine Tasting Tour
• Bateaux Parisiens Seine River Gourmet Dinner & Sightseeing Cruise

3. Tuscany, Italy

One of the top things on most foodie’s bucket lists is to take cooking classes in Italy . We dream of making tender, homemade pasta and rich meaty tomato sauces, drinking wine in Tuscany and eating briny olives and antipasto on the terrace overlooking the vineyards.

This experience can be found all over Italy — there’s no shortage of cooking schools and wine tasting tours.

One of our favorite areas in Tuscany is Chianti. Not only is it absolutely gorgeous and easy to get around (see our self-guided Chianti tour ideas), there are dozens of amazing Chianti Classico wines to try. Here are some of our favorite places to stay in Tuscany for wine tasting.

I’ve always been enchanted with Montepulciano, as well.

Montepulciano is a charming hilltop town in the heart of Tuscany, Italy, known for its picturesque streets, historic architecture, and world-class wineries. The town is surrounded by rolling hills covered in vineyards, and the local wine industry is a major part of the economy and culture.

There are several wineries in and around Montepulciano that offer tours and tastings, like Avignonesi, Poliziano, and Boscarelli.

• Small-Group Wine Tasting Experience in the Tuscan Countryside
• Cooking Class and Lunch at a Tuscan Farmhouse with Local Market Tour from Florence

4. San Sebastian, Spain

It might not be a major cosmopolitan city like Paris or London , but San Sebastian is perhaps the greatest food destination in the world, with more Michelin stars per capita than any other city and a thriving pintxos scene that you won’t believe until you see it.

It makes the list not only because of the overabundance of haute cuisine, but because it is literally paradise, with its incredible view over the crescent bay and the beautiful La Concha Beach. There are three 3-star restaurants, among a handful of 1- and 2-starred places, plus a plethora of pintxos bars serving gourmet-style bites that are just as good as any fancy meal you’ve ever had.

• Here’s a great evening pintxos tour in San Sebastian that you’ll love.
• Arzak – 3-stars — one of the top restaurants in the world — not to be missed.

Just an hour or so from San Sebastian is the Rioja wine region of Spain, where you’ll also find some really incredible food from Michelin star chefs and formidable home-style restaurants. One of the funnest foodie things we’ve ever done was a pinchos crawl down the tiny streets of Logrono, Spain. It’s a foodie’s dream!

• Evening Pintxo-Tapas Tour with a Local Expert
• PINTXOS in San Sebastian – Private Gastronomic and Cultural Adventure

5. Bordeaux, France

Combine the delicious wines of Bordeaux with the gorgeous scenery and you have the vacation every foodie has been dreaming about in France. You should plan for at least a week in Bordeaux to give it justice. You can spend two days in the Left Bank and two days in the Right Bank , and still only scratch the surface of the wine and food possibilities.

Also, be sure to spend time in the center of Bordeaux, where we found some really incredible food options, from wine bars to street food markets. The newly opened wine museum is also very much worth a visit.

A bike tour through Bordeaux is perfect for wine enthusiasts, foodies and really anyone who wants to enjoy the countryside while biking through some of the world’s most beautiful vineyards.

You can enjoy a winery biking tour through the Left Bank or the Right Bank. The area around Saint Emillion is my favorite, and it’s flat and easy to ride.

Imagine foie gras, duck confit, and black truffles paired with bold and complex Bordeaux wines. You’ll be having gourmet lunches and dinners paired with world-class wine every day. It doesn’t get any better than this.

Check out these guided foodie activities in Bordeaux:

• Small-Group Saint-Emilion Day Trip from Bordeaux
• Bordeaux Gourmet Food Walking Tour with Lunch

6. New York City, New York, USA

New York City is also a culinary capital of the world. Here you’ll find incredible food everywhere, from street vendors to Michelin-starred restaurants and even a few completely outrageous foods that you won’t find anywhere else.

Culinary trends seem to start and end in NYC. But one of the things that makes this city so great is the high number of really talented chefs that call it home. Most of them have restaurants there that aren’t insanely hard to get into, so you can eat dinner made by a master. Some to check out are Le Bernardin, Eleven Madison Park, and Cosme (by the legendary Mexico City chef of Pujol ).

Be sure to also make it to favorites like Katz Delicatessen, Momofuku Noodle Bar, and the Peter Luger steakhouse. You’ll also find huge, thin slices of New York Pizza, street hot dogs, Jewish delis, extravagant brunches. It’s all there waiting for you to discover.

• Greenwich Village Walking and Food Tasting Tour
• Chelsea Market and High Line Food Tour

7. Tokyo, Japan

I’m a huge sushi fan. Who isn’t, right? In Tokyo, you will find the freshest, best, most amazing sushi in the world. If that’s not reason enough to head to Japan for your next foodie vacation, I don’t know what else I can say – WAIT, yes I do.

How about the really fun, totally cool izakayas you can find in all the back alleys and small crevices around the city. It sounds like dive bar quality, but it’s so not. In fact, it’s an adventurous foodie’s dream. Or the old Tsukiji outer market , which is an absolute must visit in Tokyo.

You’ll see foods you’ve never heard of before , even lots of unique Japanese drinks , and get to sample tons of things along the way. In Japan, you can eat the best of every type of food they make, from gyoza to okonomiyaki to ramen and takoyaki. Nearly every chef is a master at his cuisine.

Another great activity in Tokyo for food lovers is participating in a traditional tea ceremony. You can see what it’s all about and learn the proper manners in an informal ceremony in Hamarikyu Gardens . These things and more are part of our complete 3-day foodie guide to Tokyo.

• Tsukiji Fish Market Food and Culture Walking Tour
• Walking Food Tour of Shibuya at Night

8. Bangkok, Thailand

I think Thai food is very much a universally loved cuisine. Getting to try authentic Thai dishes the way they were meant to be eaten (at a night market or from a street vendor in Thailand ) is one of the best culinary experiences I’ve ever had.

In Bangkok, there are opportunities for cooking classes , food tours, street food for every meal, even Michelin star restaurants. For an even more unique experience, head out of town to the nearby floating markets to witness something you won’t see anywhere else. Make sure you try the mangosteens. Oh so good.

The best thing about Bangkok food is that there is a lot of it everywhere. There used to be street food vendors dispersed throughout the city, but now there are conglomerations of food stalls that you can find in the city. Some of our favorites are Bangkok’s Chinatown Market, Wang Lang Market, and the Chatuchak weekend market.

No matter where you’re staying, there is likely a street food market nearby. Be sure to keep your eyes open as you walk around. Street food is definitely the way to go in Bangkok. It’s so cheap and it’s delicious.

• Bangkok Midnight Food Tour by Tuk Tuk
• Chef designed Bangkok Food Tour for 8 Exclusive Guests

9. London, England

Another big city that is often overlooked as a food destination is London . But don’t make this mistake! London is the food capital of the world. No where will you find the array of international food choices , dining experiences , and foodie activities  that you will find in London.

People often think London doesn’t have good food – or that it consists merely of fish and chips and pub food. But that couldn’t be farther from the truth. In fact, London is one of the biggest food cities in the world. You can find every type of cuisine imaginable in the city. Plus, where else in the world can you find nearly dozens of afternoon tea choices ?

You can browse around London’s many markets , including Camden Market and  Borough Market – which are two of our favorites, or you can stop for a street food break at the really cool and fun Boxpark in Shoreditch.

We absolutely love Soho for the dizzying array of food choices. You can’t walk three steps without coming up a different restaurant, wine bar, pub, waffle bar, gelateria – you name it.

• London East End Food Tour
• Secret Food Tour: London Bridge & Borough Market w/ Private Tour Option

10. Melbourne, Australia

Melbourne, Australia, is a great food city, with many great restaurants to check out around the city. Some of our favorite restaurants in Melbourne are located on Flinders Lane. Two that I highly recommend are Chin Chin and Lucy Liu.

While staying in Melbourne, don’t miss the opportunity to get out to the wonderful Yarra Valley wine region. There are more than a dozen of wineries to visit. It’s a cool climate, so they produce a lot of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and some sparkling.

We love food and wine events, and Melbourne, Australia is home to one of the best, the Melbourne Food & Wine Festival . The festival extends for 17 days in March and features global culinary superstars who host events, create unforgettable dishes for participants to sample and draw crowds of over 250,000 each year.

• Melbourne Foodie Discovery Walking Tour
• Yarra Valley Wine & Food Day Tour from Melbourne with lunch at Yering Station

11. Stellenbosch, South Africa

Only an hour outside of Cape Town is the Stellenbosch Wine Region of South Africa. Of all the places we’ve been to for wine tasting, Stellenbosch is my favorite. The winery experience is so much more inviting and relaxed here.

You can take a tour with a group, so you don’t have to drive yourself, or you can plan your own winery tour with a designated driver. When you arrive at a winery, you’ll be able to  relax at a table or on a comfy couch and have the wine samples brought to you.

The region also has a large number of top restaurants with chef’s who know the wine well and create masterpieces that live up to the wine.  Some of the best foodie things in Stellenbosch:

• Rust en Vrede Restaurant
• Overture at Hidden Valley Restaurant
• Spier Winery and Eight at Spier Restaurant
• Visit Stellenbrau Brewery

When you’re done eating your way through Stellenbosch, there’s another nearby wine region to explore: Franschhoek. Both areas are well known for their gourmet cuisine and fine wines.

• Full Day Afrivista Wine Tours from Stellenbosch
• Wine Tasting and cultural tour with a wine maker

12. Bologna, Italy

While there are many touristy things to do in Bologna and the surrounding area, it truly is one of the best culinary vacation spots in the world.

There are so many food experiences to have in this area, from a full blown DOP food tour that takes you to a Parmigiano-Reggiano factory, a Parma ham production facility, and a home where traditional Balsamic vinegar is made, to a more intimate cooking class in the city, you simply will not run out of food-related things to do.

The Emilia-Romagna area (of which Bologna is the capital), is known for its wine, but you may think it’s only home to the sparkling semi-sweet Lambrusco wine. Lambrusco is found mostly in the northern part of the region, but Romagna makes mostly Sangiovese red wines, in a style not too different from neighboring Tuscany.

A wine-tasting trip to Romagna will reveal a whole new world of wine you didn’t know was out there.

• Bologna Food Tour from a local perspective
• Secret Food Tours Bologna w/ Private Tour Option

13. Mexico City, Mexico

When we were preparing to go to Mexico City , thoughts of indulging in real, authentic Mexican food were all I could think about. I could eat burritos, carnitas, enchiladas, tacos and guacamole all day, every day and be perfectly content.

If that sounds like something you might say, then a culinary trip to Mexico City should definitely be at the top of your list! There are a lot of great eating experiences to have around Mexico City. We found some really great restaurants , like Pujol and Maximo Bistrot. We tried many different mezcals and tequilas, and spent an entire day wandering around Mercado Roma, tasting awesome foods.

We also highly recommend taking a food tour – we like this historic center food tour . You may even want to try your hand at making some of these foods – if you’ve never handmade a tortilla, I think it might be time you tried!

Here’s a cooking class that includes a food market tour.

• Colonia Roma Food Tour
• A Night of Tacos and Mezcal in Mexico City

14. Dotonbori, Osaka, Japan

When it comes to food, Japan has more dishes to love than nearly anywhere. But for me, the star of the show is one single street in Osaka, called Dotonbori . And one of my favorite things to eat there is the famous Osaka dish, Okonomiyaki, pictured above. Dōtonbori is one of the principal tourist destinations in Osaka.

It runs along the Dōtonbori canal from Dōtonboribashi Bridge to Nipponbashi Bridge in the Namba district of the city. It’s not a huge area. It covers only about 8 blocks. But it is absolutely jam packed with restaurants, food stalls and street vendors selling every type of food specialty Japan is known for. I would make a special foodie trip to Japan, just to visit Dotonbori and eat my heart out.

Around 5pm, Dotonbori Osaka turns from a fairly quiet, mostly deserted street, into a bustling and utterly jam-packed food metropolis with lines of hungry people queued up to buy trays of hot-off-the-grill gyoza , yakisoba, takoyaki, okonomiyaki, sukiyaki! If you can eat it, they are selling it. On Dotonbori food is king!

• Eat, Drink, Cycle: Osaka Food and Bike Tour
• Sushi Cooking Class in Osaka
• Osaka Local Foodie Walking Tour in Dotonbori and Shinsekai

15. Lima, Peru

You wouldn’t think it, would you? But Peru was named the top South America Food & Drink Destination by Frommer’s and for very good reason. Peru has a multicultural population that includes immigrants from Spain , China, Japan and more, and that helps to create a thriving food scene with regional variations that are unique and unexplored. 

Lima’s signature dishes, like ceviche and chicharones, are becoming favorites around the world and opening people’s eyes to the flavors of Peru. (Read our guide on foods you must try in Peru.) Restaurants like Astrid & Gaston have been delighting foodies for many years in Lima.

Superchef Gaston Acurio of La Mar and many others are priming the city with a modern take on traditional favorites. Now is the time to experience Peru’s food scene, before it is fully discovered.

⇒ Where to stay in Lima, Peru: Hilton Lima Miraflores ( see prices and read reviews )

• Lima Gourmet Food Tour: Evening Experience
• Peruvian Cooking Class Including Local Market Tour and Exotic Fruit Tasting

16. New Orleans, Louisiana

New Orleans food expands way past typical American food. It has a style and culture all its own, with Creole and French influences. It’s an amazing place to explore if you’re a foodie who likes to try new things.

Not only does New Orleans have an abundance of great chefs and dining experiences , it also boasts a rather sophisticated cocktail scene. Many of the cocktails served in New Orleans are routed in the city’s eclectic past, and come not only with a swizzle stick, but a long history that you’ll want to hear all about.

• Unique foods you’ll want to try in New Orleans
• Shortcut Guide to the best restaurants, cocktail bars and things to do in New Orleans
• Click to see the best hotels on and near Bourbon Street .
• New Orleans Food Walking Tour of the French Quarter with Small-Group Option
• New Orleans Cooking Class

17. Copenhagen, Denmark

A must-do on many foodie’s list is Copenhagen , Denmark, to eat at  Noma , a highly acclaimed restaurant that’s spent many years at the top of the  The World’s 50 Best Restaurants list.

Chef/owner Rene Redzepi knows how to delight diners with his ultra-modern menu, now in a new location on the edge of Christiania. However, Noma remains very difficult to get into, not to mention expensive.

Even if you can’t make it to Noma, Copenhagen is blessed with chefs who came out of the Noma kitchen to build their own restaurants like 108, Amass, and Sanchez.

A few of our favorite options in Copenhagen are 1 Michelin star Relae, the first all-organic restaurant to make the World’s 50 Best Restaurants list, Baest (from the same owners), and 2 Michelin starred AOC.

For a more laid back food experience, head to the trendy food-filled Reffen on Copenhagen’s industrial Refshaleøen, where food trucks and stalls sell high quality International dishes.

Where to stay in Copenhagen: 71 Nyhavn Hotel ( see prices and read reviews .)

• The Copenhagen Culinary Experience Food Tour
• The Art of Baking Danish Pastry

18. Hong Kong

Hong Kong a wonderful food city, with all kinds of great food stalls, restaurants, and dishes with many cultural influences to try. One of the best ways to acquaint yourself with the food and to discover some of the best places to eat and drink in Hong Kong is by taking a food tour.

There are a dizzying number of restaurants in the city, not to mention foods that many Western travelers haven’t even heard of before. Let an expert guide you through the experience. Probably the most iconic food in Hong Kong is dim sum. There are even a few super affordable dim sum restaurants in Hong Kong with Michelin stars.

You must go to one of these top-rated restaurants to order a full meal of dim sum. For a Michelin-star meal, head to Tim Ho Wan. Another one to try is One Dim Sum . Roast goose is the dish I will never forget. It’s an iconic Hong Kong dish that you absolutely must try. The crunchy skin and layer of rendered fat over tender meat. It’s a thing of true joy.

We ordered roast goose in a tiny restaurant called Yat Lok Roast Goose in the Central neighborhood on Hong Kong Island.

• Hong Kong Food Tour: Central and Sheung Wan Districts
• Hong Kong Markets Private Walking Tour with Local Guide

19. Istanbul, Turkey

One of the best places you can travel to for an amazing foodie trip is Turkey . As one of the most visited countries in the world, Turkey has a lot to offer visitors. From seaside resorts on the Mediterranean Sea, historical sites, welcoming people, rich culture, amazing museums and delicious Turkish dishes, a trip to this county will be quite memorable.

Whether you’re spending time in Istanbul, Capadoccia, or one of the other popular cities in Turkey, you’ll be able to try great food everywhere you turn. Each area has a spin on the dishes they serve, but look out for things like Doner Kebab, Meze, Pide, and Baklava.

• Taste of Two Continents Food Tour
• The 10 Tastings of Istanbul With Locals: Private Street Food Tour

20. Naples, Italy

Each region of Italy has its own unique list of specialty foods you must try, and Naples is no different. From the iconic Neopolitan pizza, to deep fried macaroni, to rum-soaked sponge cakes, you really must spend some time eating your way through Naples to fully discover the city and all its charms.

Be prepared. There are a LOT of great things to eat in this city.  If you’re looking for a way to experience the best Italian food in Naples, there’s really no better way to do it than to go on a food tour with Eating Europe . We spent a week venturing around the city to find the best pizza.

Our favorite pizza in the city was at Pizzeria Da Attilio, but there are memorable pizzas at 50 Kalo and Antico Borgo Ai Vergini . These are just a few of the top of their game. Other foods to try include Pizza Fritta, Cuoppo and Pasta Frittatine.

• Naples Street Food Tour With Local Expert
• Street Food Tour of Naples with City Sightseeing and Top-Rated Local Guide

21. Catalunya, Spain

If you’ve been to  Spain , you already know that the entire country is vastly rich in culture, heritage, and especially  products and foods  that are specific to each micro region. Catalunya is one of those regions, and the amount of unique products, recipes and foods you can find there is astounding.

Catalunya has a very complex food culture. Not only does it have specific products that you don’t find in other parts of Spain, each of the smaller areas of Catalunya also have their own unique dishes that other areas of Catalunya don’t have. As a foodie in that area, you really will become immersed in a rich food culture. Even if you wanted to avoid it, you couldn’t. Food is so much a part of who they are.

While there, we discovered a plethora of products and foods you must try. You can visit wineries (there are many different wine regions – including Priorat and Emporda , plus they make Cava in Catalunya.)

With all of these great culinary destinations, you’ll never run out of food-centric vacations to take. We’ve been to each one of these and have loved them all. The variety of food around the world is just astounding.

Why not visit some of your favorites and find new dishes to love!

Be Prepared For Travel Planning is the most important part of any successful trip. Do it the easy way:

🧳 Travel Packing List | ✔️ Why You Need Travel Insurance | ✈️ What to Do Before You Leave Home

• Find and book the best hotel (our favorite booking site is Expedia)
• Research flight options (our favorite tool is Skyscanner )
• Book a tour (we always use Viator to find the best tours)
• Rent a car through Discover Cars (they search the best deals for you!)

Related Posts:

• 36 Best Beach Drinks to Order at All-Inclusive Resorts (+ Recipes!)
• 13 Unconventional Things To Do in Washington DC
• 11 Port Houses to Visit in Porto

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Laura Lynch, creator and writer of Savored Journeys, is an avid world traveler, certified wine expert, and international food specialist. She has written about travel and food for over 20 years and has visited over 75 countries. Her work has been published in numerous guidebooks, websites, and magazines.

48 thoughts on “ 21 Top Foodie Destinations Around the World ”

Nice list! I have been to a Lima, New Orleans, Tuscany, Switzerland, & Bordeaux and definitely agree! I turn every trip into a foodie destination, and while some places are better than others I have yet to be disappointed by the overall food anywhere. Right now I’m parked in South Korea and finding this food to be some of my favorite in the world!

Thanks for posting your thoughts, Katie. With so many awesome food destinations around the world, it’s hard to narrow it down, but I think most foodies would agree that these are some of the very best. I loved South Korea too. So much good food. I look forward to reading more about your adventures there.

Have you never been to Turkey?

oh my goodness! I have a lot of traveling and eating to do! I have been to Spain twice but not San Sebastián but love the food there! And Tuscany-so good! I went to a South African wine tasting recently so can’t wait to get there in person to drink the wine! And hardly a Better place in the US like NOLA!

Right? It’s hard to beat any of these places for good food. That’s what I love so much about traveling for food – there’s always more to discover!

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Well I thought reading the article would help me choose a foodie destination for our 10th anniversary but now I’m famished and I can’t pick one location!!!so im going to ask as a foodie who’s travelled on a foodie vacation, where would you go?!? Ok let me rephrase that if you had to choose 1 place that’s amazing and you could visit again where would it be? Suggestions greatly appreciated!

I know, food overload! Where you go depends greatly on the type of food you like and whether you want to do mostly food things, or historical things too. If I had to pick one, is go with Bologna Italy. You can do so many different food activities there, plus extend down into Florence and Tuscany. My second choice would be Tokyo. If you like Japanese food, you will be in foodie heaven there.

Have you been to Bilbao, Spain?

Yes and we love the food in that region!

always malaysia is a food paradise

Hi, Great list. Thank you for your post. I have a passion for travel and food as well and I gained a lot of information from your post. It creates motivation for me a lot. I hope that in the near future, you will have other posts like this. Best regards

Glad you enjoyed it!

nice post thanks

Left out Istanbul, Turkey. Best food ever!

You’re right, Carolyn. I love Turkish food too.

Wonderful blog! Thanks for sharing!

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Great blog. Thanks for sharing..

www.luxxpress.com

You left out Vietnamese street foods in Ho Chi Minh city . Also street foods in Hong Kong.

Absolutely! We’ll be sure to add those to the list in the future.

You are missing Ho Chi Minh City.

Thank you! This list is really helpful. Our website is also about foods to eat in different cities. https://foodieadvice.com/

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i’m gonna cry..where is malaysia….it’s country with the food paradise???uwahhhh

So sorry! I agree that Malaysia is a fantastic foodie paradise.

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I’m a merchant mariner and I’ve traveled my whole adult life going all over the world trying good eats. I just came back from SE Asia and I’m pretty astounded that you would include Manila on this list. If there is a great Philippino dish to try it’s certainly the Sinigang not street squid (which I do love). However, the food game in PI isn’t on par with the rest of Asia. Have you been to Borneo? I’m in San Diego right now and I can honestly say that the food game here is better than half of these cities listed.

Part of the fun of traveling for food is to try these different cuisines and decide which ones you like the most. 🙂

Hi..I think you forgot India here ….I assume you never been to India.

We have, in fact, been to India and are headed back in January. This list can’t possibly be all inclusive. It’s just a taster of options for people looking to do culinary vacations. Thanks for adding India.

Missed Chengdu, China in the heart of Sichuan cuisine!

Worth a visit if you get a chance! The food, people and city are lovely!

Thanks Patrick!

Southern Italy (especially Naples and Sicily) is never mentioned in these rankings but it’s probably the best foodie region in Europe, easily topping Central and Northern Italy (Rome, Tuscany, Bologna, Venice and so on).

Thanks Christian. We visited Naples and Puglia this year and loved the food. It’s definitely a good addition to the list.

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Hey Laura, just finished reading the article, and god I’m so craving for that Neopolitan Pizza and a glass of wine imported from Italy only!!!!

Sounds amazing, right?!

Awesome write-up! Food tours are an amazing experience not only for foodies but for travelers who are interested in the culture of the destination as we all know that cuisine and food culture of any destination is based on historical influences and the uniqueness of the environment. For my tour, Delicious Kyiv: Ukrainian Wine & Appetizers Tasting Tour all wines and specialties of Ukrainian cuisine are prepared with ingredients from local wineries and farms.

I’m disappointed with the list. You missed Charleston, SC big time. It is a foodie destination and the best vacation destination.

We love Charleston too, but we wanted to keep the list short and not focused only on the U.S.

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Top 15 Best Countries for Food Lovers

Going on a vacation, all of us experience lots of new and amazing things and food, of course, is an important part of it.

The truth is that food has a significant impact on our impression of a certain place.

There are lots of people that choose their destination based on their food preferences and interests.

Around the world, there are lots of places that are known for their incredible food.

In this article, we’ve collected a list of countries that can be a perfect destination for any food lover.

Each country and culture has its own rather specific cuisine and some signature dishes.

All 15 countries on our list have some great food to offer to any traveler.

So, here is the list of top food countries that will satisfy any taste.

 Japan

South africa, the united states of america, in summary, food countries….

When it comes to countries famous for its food, it is impossible not to mention Italy .

Millions of people all over the world adore Italian cuisine.

Italian dishes – it is a perfect mixture of colors and incredible taste.

Just try a simple pasta made by an Italian chef and you’ll never forget its amazing taste.

Moreover, you can be sure that your plate of pasta will look absolutely stunning.

Among the most popular Italian dishes, there are pizza, pasta, and cheesy risottos.

To begin with, you need to know that Spanish cuisine influenced significantly on the food of most countries on our list.

The Spaniards are known for their amazing food made with the same passion as they dance Flamenco.

As well as Italian food, Spanish cuisine combines both bright colors and great taste.

The point is that Spanish food is one of the most iconic in the world.

You need to know that not only Spanish cuisine restaurants but street-food stalls will offer you a variety of amazing treats.

Spanish restaurant El Celler de Can Roca was ranked as the best one in the world in 2015.

If you want to enjoy some great food, Mexico is one of the most perfect destinations for you.

Mexican cuisine originates from Europe while also having influence from African and Indian food.

The truth is that most part of the best cuisines has their origins from the European continent.

In fact, most of them are influenced by Spanish cuisine.

The main point about Mexican cuisine is that it is not only about nourishment but also about family bonding.

You need to know that Mexican cuisine has something to offer to everyone as there is a whole variety of foods.

The most famous dishes are enchiladas, tacos, beans, and quesadillas.

India is one other country that is known for its unique and absolutely incredible cuisine.

It is a great choice for those who like vegetarian dishes with lots of spices.

Because cows are sacred animals in India, there are no dishes with beef in Indian cuisine.

The truth is that Indian cuisine is considered one of the best in the world.

It is famous for its great spices such as a variety of curries and spicy peppers.

Among the best dishes, there are Chai and Dal.

Zestiness is the first word that comes to mind when you think of Greek cuisine.

Greece has a long-lasting history and incredible culture that reflect in local cuisine.

This country is a perfect place to learn about humanity’s history as well as to try some unforgettable dishes.

You need to know that most Greek dishes look picture perfect.

The most remarkable feature of Greek dishes is olive oil lashings while the country itself is the largest exporter of this product.

The list of the most favorite dishes includes salads, roast meat, lentil soup, dolma, and feta cheese.

China for sure has a special place among countries that are known for its cuisine.

Chinese cuisine is known for its incredible diversity that will leave you in total awe.

You need to know that China is one of a few countries that preserved their culture as well as traditional cuisine.

The most significant feature of Chinese dishes is that they are well balanced and look like real masterpieces.

It is hard to find a person that doesn’t like spring rolls, tofu, dumplings, noodles, sweet and sour chicken.

Just keep in mind that outside of China there are lots of fake Chinese dishes.

As well as China, Japan preserves its culture as well as cuisine very well.

Japanese people pay lots of attention to traditions that’s why they still prefer using chopsticks instead of forks.

The point is that it’s not only locals who follow traditions but the rest of the world do it while enjoying Japanese food.

Lots of people are ready to learn how to use chopsticks just to enjoy Ramen, Sushi, Tempura, Unagi, and Sashimi accompanied by Sake.

It should be mentioned that Japanese cuisine offers a whole variety of dishes but usually, rice is the main ingredient of this cuisine.

French cuisine is the most popular course in all culinary schools around the world.

While most people are surprised by the fact, the truth is that it is very popular especially when it comes to French fries.

If you want to describe French cuisine is one word, contemporary is the best option.

Innovativeness is the main reason why French cuisine is so popular around the world.

The list of the most popular products and dishes includes various cheeses, Macarons, Bisque, and terrine.

If you like some exotic delicious food, South Africa is a perfect destination for you.

There you can find a variety of high-quality dishes as well as incredible street food.

While walking through the streets you can find numerous tasty treats as well as sumptuous meals in various restaurants.

Local dishes can be described as a mixture of Afrikaner, Zulu, and Indian cuisines.

If you are a fan of “hot” food, Thailand is a perfect destination for you.

Thai dishes are spicy, crunchy, chewy, slippery, sour and salty.

In other words, Thai cuisine combines all five main tastes of various foods from all over the world.

Rice is the main ingredient for Thai dishes as well as for most cuisines in Asia.

Influenced by various cultures, Thai cuisine combines a whole bunch of incredible flavors.

The reason is that the country is surrounded by China, Indonesia , and Malaysia that are known for its great cuisines.

One other important point is that you don’t need to visit a fancy restaurant to enjoy great local food as it can be found anywhere around Thai cities and towns

It is impossible not to include the USA in our list.

American cuisine originates from colonialism and slave trade period.

During the long history of the USA, the country experienced numerous migrations that influence its culture and cuisine.

American cuisine – it is some classic dishes from all over the world such as pizza, hamburgers, French fries, and chocolate chip cookies that were perfected.

If you are looking for a place where you can try various dishes from different cuisines, the USA is a perfect destination for you.

While most dishes originate from different countries, the USA has a couple of its own iconic dishes such as Cobb salad and clam chowder.

Of course, Hawaii isn’t a country however there is a perfect reason why it has its own place in our list.

The state of Hawaii is known for its absolutely unforgettable cuisine.

You need to know that migrations have a great impact on local cuisine however it also somehow preserved its authentic features.

In fact, local food is a combination of Hawaiian and international traditions.

When it comes to Mauritius cuisine, it can be described as a mixture of Indian, African, French, and Chinese dishes.

It is known for its incredible seafood dishes.

Among the most popular dishes, there are the gateaux Napolitano’s, Indian crepes, and dhal puri.

As Turkey experienced lots of migrations, local cuisine was impacted by a variety of cuisines around the world.

Visiting this country, you can try some great dishes that also can be found in other countries especially from the Asian region.

Durum, lahmacun, and pistachio are the most popular dishes in Turkey cuisine.

Most people know Vietnam due to the war that ranged there for many years.

However, this country can offer you a bunch of great things as well as some incredible food.

Local cuisine is known for its absolutely healthy dishes that also have great taste.

Most dishes include various herbs, shrimps, rice, fish, as well as vegetables and fruits.

Just make sure to try Banh mi that is a famous Vietnamese sandwich.

If you are looking for a place where you can enjoy a variety of incredible dishes.

Thailand can be one of the best options as local food combines all five main tastes.

Just imagine some great food that combines sweetness, saltiness, chilliness, slipperiness, and crunchiness in every piece.

Also, all dishes have an absolutely tantalizing aroma that will make you want to try one other piece.

In our list, we’ve presented some of the best food countries around the world.

Each of them has something to offer for any foody.

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Travelling for Food? 10 Best Countries for Food Lovers

Travel for food? Me too! As I’ve travelled around the globe, my love for tasting new cuisines has become an obsession.

My curiosity for discovering the best countries for food has taken me on the ultimate food adventure to visit (and eat) in every single country in the world.

Hi, we’re Rach & Marty!

We’ve visited every country in the world and want to help you get the most out of your travels!

Whether you need an expertly planned itinerary , some experienced hints and tips , or just craving a delicious food adventure , we’ve got you covered!

We may earn affiliate commissions from websites we link to, at no cost to you. Click here for details.

So, after indulging in vast bowls of mouthwatering noodle soups across Southeast Asia, endless tapas and tasty bites across Europe, slow-cooked meats and spicy salsas in the Americas, and outstanding stews in Africa, I’ve put together my top 10 best countries for food.

Food is the best way to understand a new culture. What I like most is that a common language isn’t needed when food is present.

Food is a language in itself, and it’s universal. A few smiles, nods, and hand gestures are all you need to share a good meal with local people and new friends.

Food brings people together. It’s a chance for local people to introduce you to a world of new flavours, aromas, ingredients, and customs you may never have experienced.

I’d say that food is the soul of every nation.

Travel is the perfect opportunity to learn about new cultures, traditions, people, and cuisine.

Known as one of the Very Hungry Nomads, I travel the world to eat! So, if you’re like me, you’ll appreciate this post. I’m excited to share my list of the best countries to visit for food!

After eating through 195 countries worldwide, the best countries for foodies are below. It’s time to start planning your next foodie vacation now!

Let’s go! The 10 Best Countries for Food Lovers

Table of Contents

Italy. I mention the word and immediately have visions of some of the best meals I’ve eaten in my entire life!

So, why is Italy among the best countries for food in the world? It ticks all the boxes, big time! If you’ve visited Italy, I bet you’re nodding your head in agreement with me.

Italian food is made with quality ingredients and lots of love. That’s it. That’s the secret.

If you taste the best pizza in Florence , pasta, sandwiches, or one of Italy’s divine sweets, you will notice this.

Usually, minimal components are used to create the dish; however, the ingredients used will be the freshest and of the highest quality.

Italians live ‘la dolce vita’ (the sweet life) whenever food is concerned. It’s something I love most about Italian culture. Food is the centrepiece of any occasion, family get-togethers, and even daily life.

The best thing about travelling independently through Italy by train , or perhaps this 12-day coach tour of Italy with Expat Explore is to experience several regions of Italy.

Northern Italian cuisine is quite different from southern Italian food – but we’ll let you be the judge of that.

RELATED POST – 15 Best Places to Visit in Italy

• Estimated Budget to visit Italy : 45 – 60 USD per day
• Local Currency: Euro
• Accommodation: from $18 – 35 per day (Check Prices & Availability on Booking.com )
• Daily Food Budget: $15 – 25
• Transport: Check Omio or Trainline for transport options in Italy
• Stay Connected : Buy an eSIM for Italy and get connected the minute you arrive! View eSIM Data Packs available for Italy

Top 3 Cities to Eat in Rome – Rome , Florence , and Bologna .

The Best 3 Food Experiences in Italy

• Rome Street Food Tour with Local Guide
• Pizza and Gelato Cooking Class at a Tuscan Farmhouse from Florence
• Bologna Traditional Food Tour

It’s unanimous. Mexico has one of the best cuisines in the world.

Honestly, my list of the best countries for food couldn’t exist without it. Mexican food is diverse, spicy, fun, colourful, and rich in traditions. If you believe Mexican cuisine is just tacos and burritos, you’re in for a big surprise.

If you google ‘foodie mx’, you’ll soon discover how popular this destination is for food lovers worldwide.

I spent three months travelling around this beautiful country searching for the best food cities in Mexico , and I only scratched the surface.

Mexico is one of the best countries for food because delicious food is available everywhere and at any time of the day.

Whether you eat from street food vendors, food markets, small eateries, or high-end restaurants, you’ll be left smiling from ear to ear. It’s just that good! Best of all, it’s super affordable too.

Read these 10 Reasons to Travel to Mexico.

I recommend heading to Oaxaca and tasting these 20 Incredible Dishes in Oaxaca and taking the time to try these 12 best breakfast places in Oaxaca .

While you’re there, I recommend you visit Tlacolula Sunday Market; here’s how to do it.

• Estimated Budget to visit Mexico : 30 – 35 USD per day
• Local Currency: Mexican Peso
• Accommodation: $10 – 25 per day (Check Prices & Availability on Booking.com )
• Daily Food Budget: $6 – 10
• Transport: Check Omio for transport options in Mexico
• Stay Connected : Buy an eSIM for Mexico and get connected the minute you arrive! View eSIM Data Packs available for Mexico

Top 3 Cities to Eat in Mexico – Oaxaca , Mexico City , and Merida .

The Best 3 Food Experiences in Mexico

• Oaxaca Food Tour – Eat Like a Local
• Historic Centre Food Tour in Mexico City
• Merida Street Food Walking Tour

I’ve travelled to many regions and islands in Greece over the years. Over that time, I learned much more about Greek cuisine and gradually explored many Greek dishes.

Surrounded by water, it makes sense that fresh seafood is some of the best Greek food to try. Greece may not appear on everybody’s best food countries list – but it’s a definite contender in mine.

There’s nothing better than sitting in a seaside Greek Taverna chowing down on expertly cooked squid, octopus, or fresh fish, along with all kinds of salads, mezze, and fresh bread. It’s bliss.

On the other hand, the Greeks are masters at cooking lamb, pork, and all kinds of flavoured, tender meats. The popular street snack, the Gyros, is easily the most famous food in Greece, so you need to try it!

Read more about how to explore the best of Athens in one day, and where to eat the best Greek food when you’re there.

Better yet, book a place on this 12-day ‘Best Of Greece’ tour and share the experience with like-minded travellers!

• Estimated Budget to visit Greece : 35 – 40 USD per day
• Accommodation: $10 – 30 per day (Check Prices & Availability on Booking.com )
• Daily Food Budget: $6 – 15
• Transport: Check Omio for transport options in Greece
• Stay Connected : Buy an eSIM for Greece and get connected the minute you arrive! View eSIM Data Packs available for Greece

Top 3 Cities to Eat in Greece – Athens , Thessaloniki, and Corfu .

The Best 3 Food Experiences in Greece

• Gourmet Food Walking Tour in Athens
• Thessaloniki Half-Day Food & Culture Tour
• Small Group Food & Cultural Tour in Corfu

If you ask anyone who has visited Spain about the quality of food they ate on their trip, I guarantee they’ll tell you it was phenomenal! Honestly, this is the only answer.

Much like in Italy, the Spanish understand the art of simplicity regarding food. Quality ingredients are essential.

Once you add this to a sophisticated style of cooking, fresh herbs & spices, seafood, and a ton of passion, the result leaves you with an incredibly diverse cuisine.

Whether you’re visiting Spain to tackle 7 of the best hikes in Spain , want to eat your way along the coast from San Sebastian to Santander , or join a group tour to see the highlights of Spain – you’ll enjoy the most delicious food you’ve ever tasted.

So, once you’ve read these 7 best tips for travelling to Europe and got your packing list for Europe ready, remember to include Spain in your itinerary.

These are my recommendations for the best 10 cities to visit in Spain, easily one of the best countries for food in the world.

RELATED POST – How to Travel Europe with Train – Our Best Tips

• Estimated Budget to visit Spain : 35 – 40 USD per day
• Accommodation: $13 – 25 per day (Check Prices & Availability on Booking.com )
• Daily Food Budget: $10 – 20
• Transport: Check Omio for transport options in Spain
• Stay Connected : Buy an eSIM for Spain and get connected the minute you arrive! View eSIM Data Packs available for Spain

Top 3 Cities to Eat in Spain – Madrid , Barcelona , San Sebastian , and Valencia .

The Best 3 Food Experiences in Spain

• Tapas Night Walking Tour in Madrid
• Ultimate San Sebastian Pintxos & Wine Tour (Evening)
• Valencian Paella cooking class, Tapas, and Market Visit

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5) Thailand

If this were a list of only the world’s three best countries for food, Thailand would still make the cut. Thai cuisine is exceptional.

This would be the winner if I had to choose just one cuisine to eat for the rest of my life. Thailand has my vote for the best country with food that never disappoints.

So, why is Thailand the best country for food lovers? A typical Thai dish includes five primary flavours: sweet, salty, bitter, sour, and spicy . When these five elements come together, the result is pure joy!

Thai cuisine is diverse, from stir fry to BBQ, spicy coconut curries and zingy salads, noodle soups packed with aromatics and fresh herbs steamed dishes and incredible seafood. There is always a new dish to discover.

Don’t miss my 12 favourite Thai dishes to try on your next vacation.

If you’re a street food lover like me, this is easily one of the best countries for food cooked on the streets. Furthermore, these are some of the most hygienic kitchens you’ve ever seen.

I suggest you indulge in some of the best Thai food in Chiang Mai in northern Thailand. Take a food crawl through this delicious city and visit my carefully curated list of the 15 best Chiang Mai restaurants and places to eat.

Thailand is a top-rated destination for digital nomads. Check out our detailed guides on the digital nomad lifestyle in Chiang Mai vs Chiang Rai and in the southern islands of Ko Phangan vs Ko Samui .

• Estimated Budget to visit Thailand : 25 USD per day
• Local Currency: Thai Baht
• Accommodation: $4 – 20 per day (Check Prices & Availability on Booking.com )
• Daily Food Budget: $4 – 10
• Transport: Check 12Go for transport options in Thailand
• Stay Connected : Buy an eSIM for Thailand and get connected when you arrive! View eSIM Data Packs available for Thailand

Top 3 Cities to Eat in Thailand – Bangkok , Chiang Mai, and Krabi

The Best 3 Food Experiences in Thailand

• Bangkok by Night: Temples, Markets and Food by Tuk-Tuk
• Thai and Akha Cooking Class in Chiang Mai
• Small Group Evening Street Food Tour of Chiang Mai

If I just think about Japanese food, my mouth waters. When I visited Japan, the first thing that struck me was how much care goes into preparing, cooking, and serving this beautiful food.

Japanese cuisine is one of the most cherished food cultures in the world. The history of more than 2,000 years of cooking traditions and preparation techniques is fascinating.

It is like watching edible art come together; the best part is when you indulge in it. Japanese food is lean, fresh, and comforting, with clean flavours and expertly presented every time.

Just writing about Japanese food has inspired me to plan another food adventure across the country. The best way to move around Japan is with a Rail Pass and an appetite to eat everything in sight!

• Estimated Budget to visit Japan : 35 – 50 USD per day
• Local Currency: Japanese Yen
• Accommodation: $15 – 30 per day (Check Prices & Availability on Booking.com )
• Daily Food Budget: $15 – 30
• Transport: Check 12Go for transport options in Japan.
• Stay Connected : Buy an eSIM for Japan and get connected when you arrive! View eSIM Data Packs available for Japan

Top 3 Cities to Eat in Japan – Tokyo , Osaka , and Kyoto .

The Best 3 Food Experiences in Japan

• Tokyo by Night: Japanese Food and Drinks Experience
• Deep Backstreet Osaka Tour
• Kyoto Night Foodie Tour

This nation has earned its place on my list of best countries for food because Vietnamese cuisine is fresh, healthy, and packed with flavour.

Travel for foodies doesn’t get much better than this! Choose to take your food adventure across Vietnam, via public transport or join one of these food-filled trips with GAdventures and share the experience with new friends.

Vietnamese foods include rice, noodles, fresh herbs, seafood, soup, green vegetables, and tropical fruits.

Watch for my all-time favourite sandwich worldwide, the Banh Mi. You can find this classic sandwich everywhere!

If you plan to visit Vietnam, don’t miss our Complete Food Guide to Hanoi , featuring the 20 best restaurants and places to eat.

Similarly, if you’re heading to the resort beach city of Da Nang, we’ve covered you for the best culinary spots. Get prepared now and start pinning these 17 delicious restaurants in Danang, Vietnam !

We didn’t forget about the charming city of Hoi; our hand-picked best restaurants and places to eat can be found in our Food Lovers Guide to Hoi An .

While hunting for the best food, try and taste these 10 most popular foods in Vietnam .

• Estimated Budget to visit Vietnam : 25 – 35 USD per day
• Local Currency: Vietnamese Dong
• Accommodation: $4 – 15 per day (Check Prices & Availability on Booking.com )
• Daily Food Budget: $5 – 10
• Transport: Check 12Go for transport options in Vietnam
• Stay Connected : Buy an eSIM for Vietnam and get connected when you arrive! View eSIM Data Packs available for Vietnam

Top 3 Cities to Eat in Vietnam – Hanoi , Ho Chi Minh City , and Hoi An .

The Best 3 Food Experiences in Vietnam

• Hanoi Food Lovers Walking Tour
• Street Food Motorbike Tour in Ho Chi Minh City
• Hoi An Food Adventure at Sunset

8) Ethiopia

If you’re heading to Africa, Ethiopia is the best destination for foodies. Aside from the diverse culture, stunning green landscapes, and the long list of things to do in Ethiopia , the food is a significant highlight.

It has to be the most colourful cuisine out there! There’s something special about eating with your hands and sharing food with others from the same platter; this is how you enjoy Ethiopian food .

The base of many meals is injera, a sourdough flatbread made from teff flour, accompanied by a range of flavourful stews, including vegetables, meats, and various legumes such as lentils, and chickpeas.

Some of the most memorable food I enjoyed in Ethiopia was during a 2-day visit to the rock-hewn underground churches in Lalibela and the capital city of Addis Ababa.

I highly recommend this food tour in Addis , including a tour of the Atlas neighbourhood with your guide.

Read more about the 15 most popular foods from Africa . If you visit Ethiopia, I recommend you plan to consider visiting Eritrea, too. This was my final country to visit in Africa , and I loved it!

• Estimated Budget to visit Ethiopia : 20 – 30 USD per day
• Local Currency: Ethiopian Birr
• Accommodation: $8 – 15 per day (Check Prices & Availability on Booking.com )
• Transport: Check 12Go for transport options in Ethiopia

Top 3 Cities to Eat in Ethiopia – Addis Ababa , Lalibela , and Gondar

The Best 3 Food Experiences in Ethiopia

• Local Ethiopian Food Tour
• 4 Days Lalibela Eco Community Based Trekking Tour with Meals
• Best of Ethiopia 15 Days Tour

Lebanon is a food lovers paradise! Imagine smokey spiced meats, grilled vegetables, tasty stews, dips and mezze, fresh salads, and flatbreads – and the coffee is fantastic too!

Some spectacular sites to visit in Lebanon, such as the fascinating Roman Ruins of Baalbek and the seaside towns of Byblos , Batroun, and Saida are recommended.

Good food in Lebanon is always easy to find. Pick up a tasty falafel wrap, a fresh tabbouleh or fattoush salad, or a hot bowl of ful, a typical Lebanese breakfast of cooked fava beans with spices. Any dish you choose in Lebanon will bring a smile to your face.

And Lebanese people are some of the most welcoming and hospitable people in the world – so there’s another reason to plan a visit.

While discussing Lebanese food and its greatness, I must mention Lebanon’s neighbour, Syria. The cuisine in Syria is quite similar to Lebanon. My memories and experience of travelling in Damascus and other parts of the country warm my heart.

I enjoyed many beautiful Syrian dishes and moments with the warm-natured and resilient Syrian people.

RELATED POST – How to Travel to Syria – Everything You Need To Know

• Estimated Budget to visit Lebanon : 35 – 50 USD per day
• Local Currency: Lebanese Pound
• Accommodation: $25 – 30 per day (Check Prices & Availability on Booking.com )
• Daily Food Budget: $8 – 15
• Transport: Check Rome2Rio for transport options in Lebanon
• Stay Connected :

Top 3 Cities to Eat in Lebanon – Beirut , Byblos , and Harissa

The Best 3 Food Experiences in Lebanon

• Authentic Lebanese Cooking Lesson and Meal with Tania’s Family in Beirut
• Guided Small-Group Tour to Baalbek, Anjar and Ksara with Lunch and Tickets
• Lebanon day tour to Jeita Grotto-Harissa & Byblos – Private guide & lunch

Spicy curries, blistering hot naan bread painted with garlic butter, fragrant biryanis, crispy samosa, stuffed paratha, masala dosa, tandoori chicken, and an unlimited number of sweets, Indian cuisine is exciting!

The best thing about travelling through this vast country is how affordable the food is. It’s also fascinating to see the difference in Indian food as you travel from north to south.

There are some fantastic food-inspired group trips with GAdventures , and if you’re planning to go at it alone, good on you! Get ready for an eye-opening, fascinating time and an assault on all the senses!

• Estimated Budget to visit India : 15 – 25 USD per day
• Local Currency: Indian Rupee
• Accommodation: $5 – 10 per day (Check Prices & Availability on Booking.com )
• Transport: Check 12Go for transport options in India
• Stay Connected : Buy an eSIM for India and get connected when you arrive! View eSIM Data Packs available for India

Top 3 Cities to Eat in India – New Delhi , Hyderabad , and Amritsar

The Best 3 Food Experiences in India

• Old Delhi Street Food Tour
• Evening Hyderabad Street Food Walk with Hyderabad Biryani
• Amritsar Food Walk with Hidden Gems

In summary, I’ve always said that the best country for food is the one that has you returning for more.

And the best countries for food lovers mentioned here are foodie destinations guaranteed to hit the spot.

I hope you enjoyed reading about my top countries for food. What is your all-time best country for food? Let me know in the comments below.

Make sure you get Travel Insurance before hitting the road. We recommend Heymondo & SafetyWing Travel Insurance.

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More Food Tips to Travel the World

Once you’ve decided where you’re heading next to eat, you may be interested in my comprehensive food maps!

Check out my food map of Europe , this detailed food map of Asia (covering 39 countries), and my ultimate food map of Africa !

My 7 tips for finding the best food when travelling may be helpful to you; there are some practical suggestions to avoid getting ill on your travels.

Perhaps you’re travelling on a budget? These 10 cheapest European countries to visit may be just the tool you need to start planning an epic trip.

But, know these 8 things to know about travelling to Eastern Europe before you go, and these are 7 misconceptions about Eastern Europe that every traveller should know.

I’ve got a bunch of tips for how you can save money to travel the world , and even when you’re out there travelling, maybe these 20 jobs that PAY YOU to travel the world will help you travel longer. It worked for me, and we bet it can work for you, too.

Finally, these top 6 travel hacks to save you money and my best travel tips from 20+ years of travel are some of the best travel advice I can share.

Head to the Travel Resources Page for more travel tips and products I use regularly.

Travel Planning Resources

✈️ Flights : We use Skyscanner to book cheap flights worldwide.

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🚌 Transportation : Trainline is the best website to reserve trains. We use Omio to book transport worldwide. For travel in Asia, we use 12Go.  

🚘 Car Rental : We use DiscoverCars to book rental cars worldwide.

👫 Group Tours :  G Adventures OR compare multi-day tours worldwide with Tourradar .

📸 Day Tours & Trips :  GetYourGuide  & Viator are the only two platforms you need.

📚 Lonely Planet: The Best Range of Travel Guides & Ebooks , and FREE Shipping! (use code RACHELDAVEY10 for a 10% discount)

🎒 Luggage :  Osprey Farpoint 40L Backpack  or  Samsonite Luggage Range.

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Fantastic information! So helpful and enjoyable. Thanks so much for sharing your knowledge. it will be a huge help for my upcoming travel 🙂

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10 of the world’s best foodie destinations (and what to eat when you get there)

Mar 1, 2024 • 12 min read

From dim sum in Hong Kong to barbecue brisket in Texas, be inspired to travel just for these epic flavors © Sammyvision / Getty Images

Have you ever eaten something so delicious while traveling that it becomes the defining memory of your trip? We have, too.

So, to ensure that will happen again, plan your next trip to an incredible foodie destination. We know just where you should go — and what you should eat when you get there. 

Here are 10 of the destinations and dishes, selected from our book Ultimate Eats , that we think are worthy of planning a trip around.

1. Try pinxtos in San Sebastián, Spain

Travelers heading to San Sebastián  in Spain will find an incredible city bursting with Basque culture, and surrounded by golden beaches and verdant hills. But there’s one compelling reason to visit that rises above all the others:  pintxos . The tiny bites (known as tapas outside of Basque Spain) are best consumed with an accompanying drink, seeing as you’ll be taking this particular culinary journey as a bar-hopping escapade through the streets of San Sebastián.

Originally small open-faced sandwiches, pintxos can today be experienced in many incarnations, from the traditional, piled-high toppings on bread, to molecular-gastronomy renditions with flavors that belie what you see on your plate. Needless to say, almost every local ingredient is represented. It’s hard to list favorites, but the simple examples are often the ones that blow your mind: battered white asparagus, a tuna-and-anchovy tart or maybe mushrooms braised with garlic.

To get the full pintxos and San Sebastián experience, have a lazy day in the city and surrounds, take an afternoon nap and then head out around 9pm. You’ll never be more than a few minutes from your next bar, a whole new menu of tasty treats and a whole new group of people eating and drinking.

2. Eat curry laksa in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

One of the most compelling parts of visiting  Kuala Lumpur is wandering through the streets, finding fantastic little hawker centers tucked into the shadows of towering skyscrapers. At this feast for the senses, you’ll truly complete the experience when you sample a rich and creamy curry laksa .

On  Madras Lane , just off Petaling St, you’ll come across competing curry laksa stalls vying for your attention. Pick the one with the longest queue. When you have the bowl in your hands, choose a plastic chair (make sure it’s connected to the stall where you bought your laksa or you’ll be in trouble) and begin the swoon-worthy, sweat-inducing process of eating. Come again the next day to try the neighboring stall’s version.

A heady mix of spices and flavors (such as fresh turmeric, galangal, chili, candlenut and shrimp paste) go into the curry mix, which, when combined with coconut milk, creates the signature fiery-orange hue of the noodle soup. Two types of noodles (thin rice and thick egg) – along with shredded chicken, shrimp, cockles, tofu puffs, bean sprouts, a sprinkling of fresh chili and mint and a squeeze of lime – make up the rest of the lip-smacking ingredients. It’s an only-in- Malaysia experience.

3. Take a sushi master class in Tokyo, Japan

Japan offers a truly awe-inspiring array of food experiences , with few as memorable as sampling sushi in Tokyo . We wish we could say that if you’re going to eat sushi in Tokyo, go to Sukiyabashi Jiro or Sushi Saito, but the inordinately long waiting lists to get into either restaurant take the shine off the experience. That said, if your hotel concierge can work their magic, do not miss your chance; the sushi mastery on show at both places is undeniable. In the absence of this bit of good luck, however, there are some superb sushi restaurants in Tokyo that dish up life-changing experiences without the wait. Cases in point include Mantensushi Marunouchi and Jūzō Sushi.

Most top-end sushi chefs will serve their sushi  omakase- style, which just means you leave it to them and they will select, prepare and serve your sushi as they see fit. Don’t kick back and relax just yet, though – there are some etiquette rules to abide by. First, when your fresh piece of sushi is placed in front of you, pick it up with your hands rather than chopsticks, and don’t dip it in soy sauce or ask for any extra wasabi. The chef has seasoned the offering, so it is something of an insult to modify the flavor. Between courses, it’s fine to use chopsticks to pick up pickled ginger and the  oshibori  (hand towel) to clean your fingers.

Take your time and interact with the chef; it’s such an intimate setting and a perfect opportunity to learn more about this ancient culinary art form. Remember to pay attention to the rice as well as the fish. Sushi masters spend years perfecting their rice and consider it as important as all the other ingredients. Soak it all in – the tradition, the skill, the respect, the service, all amounting to the quintessential Japanese dining experience.

4. Taste tantalizing beef brisket in Texas, USA

Travel to Texas , US , and you’ll quickly learn something important about the locals: they know their barbecued meats. So when they line up for four or more hours to get some, it has to be special. That’s the situation at  Austin ’s  Franklin Barbecue  six days a week. Through the Franklin’s menu includes pulled pork, ribs, sausage and more, the main attraction is its smoked beef brisket.

The team here keeps it simple, rubbing the meat with a mix of salt and black pepper, then cooking it “low and slow” in oakwood smoke until it’s fall-apart tender and encased in a thin, salty crust. It’s a juicy, smoky Texas classic, judged best-in-class by Texans themselves. You could drive to Lockhart , the state-legislated “Barbecue Capital of Texas,” and be back in the time it takes to get into Franklin’s. But the queue is good fun, you can have a beer and meet some friendly Texans while you wait – and damn, that brisket is good .

5. Travel to Bangkok, Thailand, for som tum  

Hit the streets of Bangkok  and prepare for sensory overload. While the sights of the Thai capital will astonish you, you’ll have a similarly intense experience when you try som tum , green papaya salad. Som tum is a bang of flavor: it’s sour, salty, sweet and intensely fiery. It’s also texturally extraordinary, combining the crunch of peanuts with cool slivers of pale green papaya and carrot, and small, sweet, juicy shrimp and tomatoes. It’s sold from street vendors all over  Thailand  but is particularly beloved in the capital, where it feels like there’s a seller on every corner.

Grabbing a plate of som tum on the street, amid all the traffic chaos and the stifling heat, is a rite of passage for visitors to the city, and the epitome of this is the rambling, streetside shack  Jay So . But if you would prefer to revere your salad in relative peace and quiet, the restaurant  Somtam Nua , at the Siam Center on Siam Sq, has a worthy version – tamed slightly for Western palates but still delicious.

Continue your restaurant tour of Bangkok at these local favorites.

6. Heap toppings on  smørrebrød  in Copenhagen, Denmark

Stylish Copenhagen lures in travelers looking to soak up contemporary art, admire amazing architecture and shop for vintage clothes . But the perfect food experience in Copenhagen, a Danish smørrebrød , is anything but fussy – just take a slice of rye bread, put some butter on it and then heap it with whatever tasty ingredients you like.

But it’s not really that simple. There are some rules to smørrebrød that help to elevate it to something beyond just a piece of bread with toppings. First, thin toppings go on first, followed by the bulkier kind; second, when eating more than one kind of smørrebrød at once (and this is nearly always the case; good luck stopping at one), you start with the slice that features herring, move on to fish, then meat, then finish with cheese. This carefully choreographed sequence is designed to gently walk your palate through the flavor combinations so that one never overpowers the other.

If you’ve never had smørrebrød , before there are some classic combinations you’ll see all over  Denmark : for example, pickled herring, onion and dill; mayonnaise, boiled egg, shrimp, dill and lemon; roast beef, pickles, onions and horseradish; and blue cheese, apples and bacon. But these are just a tiny sample of the almost limitless number of toppings.

Copenhagen’s smørrebrød institution,  Restaurant Schonnemann , has been serving up the open-faced sandwich since 1877. Here, presentation is so delicate and refined it resembles sushi in style. Try the following for an ultimate smørrebrød experience, otherwise known as the world’s best sandwich degustation: herring marinated in dill cream with capers, onions and a fried egg; smoked salmon and smoked halibut with a crab and mayonnaise salad, tomato and basil; a breaded cutlet of pork with apples, thyme and onions; and, finally, Camembert with blackcurrant jam. And to drink? Why there are only more than 140 different schnapps, aquavit and genevers to choose from. That should do nicely.

Save these Copengahen restaurants to your itinerary.

7. Savor crayfish by the sea on New Zealand’s South Island

New Zealand ’s scenery is a big allure for travelers who want to experience its incredible array of mountains, fields and coastlines. But beyond its eye-candy appeal, this lush environment also produces a wealth of delicious ingredients. On the east coast of New Zealand’s  South Island , about two hours’ drive north of Christchurch , is the picturesquely situated town of  Kaikōura . The town is famous for the abundance of marine life present offshore – with sperm whales, dolphins and seals often spotted close to land – with its name deriving from the Māori words kai (meaning food) and kōura (crayfish).

Trading on its namesake are numerous fresh seafood vans up and down the nearby coastline. Of these, one of the oldest – and best – is  Nin’s Bin . A 20-minute drive from the center of town, this basic blue-and-white converted caravan has a few wooden picnic tables scattered outside where locals and well-informed travelers hunker over fresh crayfish and mussels with a view over the Pacific Ocean. Nin’s Bin prepares its crayfish with butter, garlic and a sprinkling of parsley, letting the fresh and sweet flesh shine. Add a squeeze of lemon, throw in a cold beer and hope for a sighting of sperm whales – it could be the perfect afternoon.

Quotas on the number of crayfish being caught in this region have been put in place to protect the marine life here and promote sustainable practices. As such, many of the local shacks and restaurants, including Nin’s Bin, have strict seasonal opening hours worth scouting out before your visit.

8. Don't miss bowls of bibimbap in South Korea 

South Korea  offers up an incredible variety of experiences  in a tiny package. Likewise, one of its most popular dishes, bibimbap, offers a dizzying array of flavors in just one bowl. Beef and sautéed vegetables such as shiitake mushrooms, spinach and eggplant are piled on to warm, white rice and flavored with spicy chili paste and an umami-rich fermented soybean paste, topped with either a raw or fried egg. There are two main types of bibimbap:  jeonju -style, which comes in a cold bowl, and  dolsot , which comes in a piping-hot earthenware bowl – making it the perfect dish for any season.

Whichever one you choose comes to you like a display meal, with all the ingredients fanned out over the rice – so take a moment to admire the pretty culinary spectacle and know that the ingredients are chosen for specific reasons. The red of the chili pepper represents your heart, the green vegetables are for your liver, the yellow of the egg yolk is for your stomach, black or very dark items (mushrooms or soy sauce) are there for your kidneys and the white rice is for your lungs. Next, dive right in, mix the whole lot up and give your insides a boost.

9. Take a pilgrimage to Naples, Italy, for the perfect pizza 

Wander the pulsing, narrow streets of Naples  and you’re sure the catch a whiff of its most famous food: pizza. While there are infinite numbers of ways it can be prepared, there’s one version of our worldwide food obsession that will always stand prouder than the rest: the original margherita pizza from Naples. To eat margherita here is reminiscent of a religious experience – you’ll find zealous disciples of specific restaurants.

It’s believed the worldwide phenomenon was first created when a local baker prepared dinner for the visiting King Umberto and Queen Margherita in the 19th century. Legend has it he made three pizzas, and the queen was taken with the flavors of the tomato, mozzarella and basil version, in the colors of the Italian flag. From then on it has been named in her honor.

So where to eat it? One of the longest-standing establishments is Di Matteo . The huge, cerulean-tiled pizza oven fires out light and stretchy toasted pizzas that fly out of the door to pizza lovers on their own personal pilgrimage, and locals who appreciate the exalted position they find themselves in. If the queue is too long at Di Matteo, stroll the streets and find your own place of worship.

10. Snack on dim sum in Hong Kong 

Dim sum (which means “light snack”) is served all over the world – but nowhere does it like  Hong Kong . In fact, Hong Kong’s dim sum is a destination in itself. Dim sum (also known as  yum cha , which translates to “with tea”) has evolved from the traveler ritual of stopping for tea and snacks while on the road into what might be the world’s best brunch.

In Hong Kong you can sample your dim sum as simply or as extravagantly as your predilections go. At multiple locations across town,  DimDimSum does its tidbits traditionally – you’ll find that the  siu mai  (steamed pork dumplings),  har gow  (steamed shrimp dumplings) and  char siu bao  (BBQ pork steamed buns) are all excellent. The atmosphere is buzzing with students, travelers and lovers of dim sum on a budget.

At the other end of the spectrum are the Michelin-starred establishments like  Duddell’s  and  Fook Lam Moon . At the painfully elegant Duddell’s the classics are given an elaborate twist: think pork-and-shrimp dumpling with scallop and caviar, or a deep-fried pork-and-shrimp wonton with foie gras. By contrast, Fook Lam Moon’s mood is classic Cantonese, but still caters to Hong Kong society’s elite with offerings that come with small unexpected flourishes, such as the siu mai with crab roe or the steamed squid with curry sauce.

Whether jostling for elbow room at budget restaurants or sitting in elegant surroundings as silent carts glide towards your table, Hong Kong dim sum is the definitive version to try before the proverbial bucket gets kicked.

This article was first published May 2020 and updated March 2024

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These Countries Have The Best Food On Earth, According To The Masses

Finding the best food in the world is a fool’s errand. Culture , nostalgia , even genetics dictate what we like and don’t like to eat . That means putting one culture’s cuisine over another’s is… pretty much pointless (along with being inevitably infused with imperialistic notions of what food “ought” to taste like ). That being said, we are humans and we love to rank things and argue about pretty much everything food-related.

That’s especially true when it comes to the best food destinations around the globe. Hence, this headline and article.

Over at Ranker , they asked their audience what the best countries for food are around the world. Over 40,0000 voters participated and a list of countries with the “best” food emerged. We’re pulling the top ten, which is admittedly very Euro-centric but not entirely. Are these the best countries for food worldwide? We’ll never know that. Even the act of talking about an entire nation’s food is reductive — because to do so you lose the chance to highlight regionality.

What we do know is that all ten countries listed have pretty incredible food scenes. To help you navigate these culinary havens, so we’re calling out the one dish you should try from each one to help you judge for yourself.

10. Hungary

The Food Scene:

Hungary’s food scene is very specific. The land of paprika has amazing delis, farm-to-table markets, and a love of spice that’s rarely seen elsewhere in Europe. Thinking about Hungarian food, it’s hard not to zero in on neon red sausages hanging over deli counters, piping hot bowls of paprika-loaded goulash, smoked cheese, amazingly fresh produce, and plenty of sweet, bready treats roasted over open fires and dusted with sugary cinnamon.

Of course, there’s so much more to Hungary than that. But those foodie touchstones shine the brightest for anyone looking for a culinary getaway outside of Europe’s most popular destinations.

One Iconic Dish To Try: Goulash

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Visit Hungary (@visithungaryhu)

If you’re in Budapest, the best bet is to find a hot deli counter and order, well, everything! But, specifically, order the goulash. There will almost always be a big pot bubbling away behind the counter. It’ll be full of paprika-laden goodness with a few pieces of stewed beef or pork in a chili-based stew.

Get some freshly baked bread for dipping and you’re set for the day.

It’s not at all surprising to see Spain on any list of countries with the best food scenes. Spain’s food is as diverse as it’s delicious. The country is basically surrounded by the sea, has one of the densest agricultural areas of Europe, and continues to dominate the olive oil and wine worlds.

Picking a single region of Spain to indulge in is almost impossible. It’s like having to pick your favorite child. From the Basque country’s fiery asador grills and canned seafood to Valencia’s paella to the piles of calamari along the Costa Brava to the cheeses of the high plains to the vermouth bars of Barcelona to the tapas bars of Seville, you’ll never run out of great food while in Spain.

One Iconic Dish To Try: Canned Seafood

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Donosti Foodies – San Sebastián – (@donostifoodies)

It’d be really easy to say paella here. As someone who’s had paella all around Spain at least a dozen times at all the “best” places, I can say it’s only been good about twice. What has been both great and educational every time I’ve tried it in Spain is their tinned seafood. A can of mussels in chili sauce or razor clams in pesto or anchovies with capers are not the average can of fish you get at your local grocery store. These are tins that reach crazy heights of deliciousness due to the processes, recipes, and attention to detail in the fishing, cooking, and canning.

This is also one of the most accessible foods you can likely try right now. If you have a high-end grocer or deli in your town, they’ll probably carry canned seafood from Spain. It’s not cheap (a jar of real-deal tuna in olive oil will cost close to $10 or more) but it’ll be revelatory. Start with something easy like tuna and go from there.

8. Hong Kong

Hong Kong’s food scene is legendary. Hong Kong is a place where the world’s cuisine comes together on the streets, in food halls, on grocery store shelves, and in homes to create a culinary culture that’s pretty much second to none. The street food alone — with sweet rice balls, all the dumplings your heart could desire, and every type of protein you can imagine fried or grilled on a stick barely scratches the surface of this city’s immense food ecosystem.

One Iconic Dish To Try: Roasted Goose

View this post on Instagram A post shared by HONG KONG FOODVENTURE 😋 (@hkfoodventure)

Picking one dish feels crazy for Hong Kong but I’m doing it anyway. Roasted goose is the dish that sticks out most in my mind as something Hong Kong street vendors, foodhall cooks, and high-end chefs all do really well. A bowl of noodle soup with a roasted goose breast over the top is a thing of simple beauty and incredible depth. The meat is usually this juicy, meatier duck with super crispy skin that’s all imbued with a deep spice-flavor profile buried in every bite.

Look, it’s not that you can’t get roasted goose anywhere else. But it’s rarely this good and that’s whether you’re buying a bowl on the go on the street or sitting down for a long dinner with friends at someplace with white tablecloths.

This is another no-brainer for a list of countries with amazing food scenes. It’s also one of the harder cuisines to define. Brazil is massive and has vastly different cultures cooking foods all over the nation. You have Indigenous Amazonia, Afro-Carib, Southern European colonial, Northern European colonial, Afro-Indigenous, and mixes and matches of all of the above.

Is that what makes a great culinary scene in a country? A mishmash of various cultures in one place? That certainly seems to be the case when you’re talking about food in Brazil.

One Iconic Dish To Try: Feijoada

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Gaucho Brazilian BBQ (@gauchobrazilianbbq)

I wanted to call out the Italian-Brazilian classic fried mortadella sandwich here. But this really has to be feijoada. The cornerstone black bean dish was popular amongst the European colonizers and their slaves. The recipes, of course, would vary — with the enslaved using the nasty bits of the pig and cow to stretch out the beans while the colonial elite used the prime cuts in their stew. Whatever the origins, the black bean stew is a staple of every table around the country with as many variations as there are people in Brazil.

The next time you find yourself in a Brazilian restaurant in your neck of the woods (Boston, New York, and Miami have the biggest Brazilian diasporas), give the feijoada a try and don’t skimp on the manioc flour on the side.

6. Argentina

Argentina and Spain both appearing on this list feels almost like cheating, since the two cultures’ food scenes bear serious similarities. The staples of Argentine cuisine almost always stem from Spanish colonization: Asador, tortilla, empanadas, all the cheese, and so forth. There’s also a deep Italian influence on Argentine cuisine. That puts Argentina at a sort of crossroads between Spanish and Italian cuisines, which, again, feels a little like cheating.

One Iconic Dish To Try: Fugazza

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Argentina has a very similar Italian migration story as the U.S. Boatloads of migrants from Genoa and Naples arrived in the late 19th century and pizza came with them to the point that Argentina has one of the oldest pizza histories in the Americas. That all culminated in the Italian-Argentine delight, fugazza. This is a thicker crust pizza that’s made with a focaccia bread base and then topped with heaps of fresh mozz, plenty of parm, a mix of fresh and caramelized onions, oregano, and olive oil.

Naturally, crust thickness and toppings are going to vary from the traditional pie, depending on who’s cooking. But this is a bready, comforting treat worth seeking out.

South America really rocked this ranking, according to the masses anyway. Peru’s food scene is another very varied one. There’s a mix of colonial cuisines from Spain and Japan next to a deeply rooted and ancient Indigenous food culture that lives side-by-side on the city streets, on the beaches, and deep into the mountains and jungles. This is where thousands of varieties of potatoes, ceviche, tomatoes, quinoa, chilis, and so much more originally comes from. All of that makes Peru a wonderland for food.

One Iconic Dish To Try: Anticuchos

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Yes, this is just meat on a stick. But when meat on a stick is done right, it’s transcendent. The name is Quechua for “eastern-style cuts” and should be made with marinated hearts in its most traditional form (though you can get standard cuts today). The Incans would use llama hearts for the dish and generally marinate them in an acidic base with chili, cumin, and wild onions. Today, beef heart has mostly replaced the llama and garlic has been added to the mix. The meat is then put on a big skewer, grilled over an open flame, and served with roasted potatoes and corn.

Generally, this is still a street food staple, but you might get lucky and find some good ones the next time you drop into your local Peruvian restaurant.

Greece feels like a good fit for the top five. The land of lamb gyros, endless seafood, funky farmhouse cheese, plenty of olive oil, and robust wines rarely leaves anyone hungry or unsatisfied with their options. The whole country feels like endless beaches, countless islands, and dry farmland leading to rugged mountains. Greece is also relatively small, especially if you’re comparing it to massive colonial empires in the Americas. That doesn’t mean the cuisine is one-note; more that it’s dialed in — based around the ideals of Mediterranean cuisine, with a heavy emphasis on fatty fish, fresh produce, plenty of dairy and olive oil, and all the wine you can drink under that hot southern European sun.

One Iconic Dish To Try: Gyro

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There’s a good chance you’ve had a gyro from a mall food court or food truck and it was probably just fine. The real-deal version you get in Greece dials things back a bit by not overstuffing their gyros. Instead, you get a few shavings of spit-roasted fatty lamb with a lush yogurt sauce, some sliced onion, maybe a little tomato, and a few just-cooked thick-cut fries all wrapped in an impossibly soft pita with a slight sourdough funk.

It’s devilishly simple yet very easy to mess up. Add in the likelihood in this island and coastline rich country of eating one beside the ocean and you have an unforgettable food experience.

Like Greece, Turkey sits at the crossroad of Europe, Asia, and Africa and the cuisine only benefits from the millennia of traffic that’s gone through this country. The heart of Turkish cuisine really depends on whether you’re in the mountains or on the sea. Very broadly, the closer you get to the Middle East through the interior of the country, the closer the cuisine leans into those foodways.

Likewise, the closer you get to Europe and the Med, the closer the cuisine leans into Mediterranean dishes.

One Iconic Dish To Try: Balık Ekmek

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Sergio Quintial (@kintiman)

This is more than just a fish sandwich. This is Turkey in your hand. The bread is French, the fish is Turkish/Mediterranean, and the spices are Middle Eastern. The fish is usually caught right from the sea next to the sandwich stand itself. They’re usually dressed with a simple mix of lemon juice and chili pepper flakes but that’ll vary and you’ll often see sumac thrown in the mix.

It’s a super cheap lunch that can’t get any more fresh or local.

Mexico being in the top two on this list should shock exactly no one. You can get legit tacos on the streets of Boston, Bangkok, Barcelona, and Berlin these days. Of course, Mexican cuisine goes well beyond tacos and blends French, Spanish, and German colonial foodways with ancient Indigenous American dishes and techniques to create one of the world’s most beloved cuisines.

One Iconic Dish To Try: Guacamole

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This might seem like a “huh?” pick but bear with me. Guacamole is the iconic Mexican dish. The name, which is a Nahuatl word, literally means “avocado sauce.” Way back before European colonization, guacamole was a staple of cuisines that stretch from what’s now the United States towards Panama, thanks to over 10,000 years of cultivation of the fruit in that area. The original recipes were a bit simpler than the concoctions that you see today and only included ground avocado, sugar, and citrus juice. Fast forward a few thousand years and you still have almost exactly that on every avocado toast from Melbourne to Memphis. Grocery stores from Dallas to Delhi sell the stuff in one form or another — this humble dip has become universal.

The best part is that you can probably make some at home right now. Go ahead! Whip some up, crack open some tortilla chips, and binge that show you’ve been waiting to binge all week.

Italy is almost synonymous with “food.” Well, maybe it’s synonymous more with “food and wine.” Either way, Italy at number one feels right. Food is the heart and soul of Italy. Entire regions build their tourism around food culture, farming, wine, cheese, sausage, and so on. You can go to a theme park for regional Italian cuisine outside of Bologna, that’s how seriously food is taken there.

Sure, some people might go to Italy for the sights (the art, history, and architecture are stunning) but the food is almost always the central focus of any trip to Italy.

One Iconic Dish To Try: Pizza

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Italians really got around the world. There’s nary a corner of this planet where you can’t find pizza (or pasta). I’ve been deep in Afghanistan, Congo, and Sumatra and I still found Italian pizza in one form or another. But it’s never the same as the variations and quality you get in Italy (no, not even in the U.S., Brazil, or Argentina). I know that sounds very hyperbolic, but you rarely get the unique toppings, perfect cheese, and great crusts you find in Italy anywhere outside of Italy (even in the US, where we have some spectacular pizza).

Grabbing a slice of french fry and hot dog pizza in Sicily is a kitschy delight. Getting a whole pizza from a street cart in Naples for less than $2 will always be the perfect street food experience. Pondering which slice to buy by the kilo from a shop in Rome with some of the most outrageous toppings — this is what pizza is all about. While you can get very close to those experiences in the U.S. at places like L’antica Pizzeria da Michele in Los Angeles or 2 Amys in Washington, DC, you’re still missing the vibe and ingenuity of being in Italy and eating the ever-evolving, globally beloved gift of pizza.

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Destinations For Foodie Travelers: Best Places To Eat Around The World

After spending the last decade traveling the world in search of the best local places to eat, we thought it was time to round up our recommendations. Here are some of the top foodie destinations around the world, perfect for all foodie travelers – people who love to travel for food and drink.

**This post contains compensated links. Find more info in my DISCLAIMER . As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

How To Travel For Food

For a long time, I hesitated to use the word foodie. It was a word that started to get a bit of a bad rap. But, whether you use the word foodie traveler or food-loving traveler, we still wanted to create a guide to some of our favorite destinations.

When planning a foodie trip, it’s important to do research about what to eat and where to eat (and drink) in that destination. But, a food vacation doesn’t have to be one that entirely revolves around eating. It can involve taking cooking classes or visiting food and drink-focused museums to learn more about the local culture through its gastronomy.

If you travel for food, does that make you a foodie? Well, in the end, I know the word foodie has fallen out of favor with many food lovers. I am still okay with the word.

Whether you call yourself a food lover or a food traveler, it’s really someone who chooses a destination because of the food. Or, they might research where to eat and what to eat when traveling. For us, it’s the most important thing when we research upcoming trips.

Vacations For Foodies – Activities Besides Eating During Meals

The best food vacations involve more than just looking for the best places to eat in a city or region. As foodie travelers, when we travel, we like to figure out other ways to learn about the cuisine in a destination.

This means looking for food tours or cooking classes or wine tastings or craft beer tours. It means visiting the local market and trying to understand the local ingredients that are used in the local cuisine.

It also means learning about what to eat in a destination, and what not to eat. For example, did you know there is no such thing as spaghetti bolognese and that no one in Italy eats spaghetti and meatballs? These are the things you learn when traveling for food.

How We Choose Our Foodie Destinations

Travel for foodies starts with choosing a destination. Oftentimes, these destinations aren’t the capital or the most popularly visited city in a country. 

These are just the destinations we’ve fallen in love with. Some of these are the places we’ve visited over and over again. All of them have provided us with memories of eating and drinking that leave us craving more!

Have a food lover in your life, check out our recommendations for the best gifts for foodies .

Our Top Food Destinations

Best places to eat in western europe, western ireland – wild atlantic way.

This part of Ireland is not only our home but has some of the best eats when it comes to traditional Irish food and seafood. Ireland is one of the world’s best vacation spots, particularly for Americans looking to trace their heritage. 

There’s Irish food and what people think is Irish food. While dishes like corned beef and cabbage are enjoyed outside Ireland, you’ll have a difficult time finding them on a menu in Ireland. Along Western Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way freshly caught seafood is all the rage. Up and down the coast locally sourced mussels, salmon, and oysters are plentiful. Enjoyed in a hot seafood chowder or on their own, they’re a must eat. 

Best Dish To Eat On The Wild Atlantic Way : Hot and delicious seafood chowder and Irish brown bread with creamy Irish butter

Check out our Irish Food Guide for more tips

Best Place to Eat Along the Wild Atlantic Way : Vaughan’s Anchor Inn Liscannor, Co. Clare. Just down the road from the Cliffs of Moher, stop here for some of the creamiest seafood chowder along the Wild Atlantic Way.

San Sebastian, Spain

San Sebastian is a city built on food. From Michelin Star dining to its world-famous bite-sized treats, called pintxos. There’s certainly no going hungry in the Basque Country’s capital city. With the unintentional invention of the first pintxos, the “Gilda,” San Sebastian has been a pilgrimage destination for food lovers. In a food-crazed country like Spain, San Sebastian is arguably the best of the best.  

The pintxos bars in San Sebastian are true restaurants for foodies. Although most of the tourist traffic is driven into the old quarter, there are good places to eat around the city. The best atmosphere, though, is in the old quarter. 

Best Dish To Eat In San Sebastian : Cochino, slow-roasted suckling pig. Juicy and tender with sinfully delicious crispy skin. 

Check out our San Sebastian Food Guide for more tips

Best Places to Eat in San Sebastian : La Vina in Old Town San Sebastian. Go for their pintxos, but stay for their world-famous Basque Burnt Cheesecake. It’s light, airy, and highly addictive. For a taste of pintxos history, head to Casa Valles to sample the pintxos that started it all, the Gilda. 

Check out our Spain Food Guide – What To Eat In Spain

Bologna, Italy

Bologna is one of the best food destinations in the world. Simply put. Some of the most iconic Italian dishes and ingredients and some of the best food to eat in the world come from Bologna or other nearby towns in Emilia Romagna. 

Overshadowed by more popular cities like Rome, Florence, and Venice, Bologna is without a doubt, Italy’s best culinary destination. The capital of the Emilia-Romagna region, Bologna is referred to as la grassa , the fat. A fitting nickname for a food destination.

It’s also fitting that many iconic Italian dishes such as ragu, lasagna, and mortadella come from Bologna. Only 30 minutes by train from Florence, Bologna is a culinary paradise. 

Best Dish To Eat In Bologna : Lasagna. Layers of fresh spinach pasta, rich bechamel , and proper meat ragu stacked high. 

Check out our Bologna Food Guide for more tips

Best Places to Eat in Bologna : Trattoria da Me is a 3rd generation family-run restaurant in the city center. Home of the best lasagna in Bologna since 1937, plan to spend a couple of hours enjoying a proper Emilia-Romagna feast. 

Are you traveling to Italy for the first time? Check out our post Advice On Traveling To Italy – 15 Tips For Italy Travel

Best Places To Eat In Asia

Osaka, japan.

Labeling any one city in Japan as the best food city in Japan is bold. So let’s be bold and say, for us, Osaka is the best food city in Japan .

Every Japanese city is bursting with great food, but Osaka is just different. There’s a feeling in the air that lets you know how important food is in Osaka. Legend has it people in Osaka would rather eat than do nearly anything else. With a mindset like this, why wouldn’t you label Osaka as Japan’s best food city? 

Best Dish To Eat In Osaka : Osaka is famous for okonomiyaki and takoyaki but for us, the best thing to eat is kushikatsu. Also known as fried stuff on a stick, it’s crunchy, tasty, and great with a cold beer.  It’s also one of the reasons why Osaka is one of the best foodie destinations in Japan.

Check out our Osaka Food Guide for more tips

Best Places to Eat in Osaka : Kushikatsu Daruma Dotonbori a.k.a. Angry Chef. Located in the heart of the famous eating street, you’ll find the best kushikatsu in Osaka. Kushikatsu Daruma has everything from fried chicken skins to fried pork ribs and our personal favorite, fried pickled ginger. But remember, no double dipping in the communal sauce. 

Taipei, Taiwan

Taipei is another one of the top cities for foodies in Asia, particularly if you like street food. 

Ask the question which is the most underrated food city in Asia and the answer hands down is Taipei. I’m not sure why but it shouldn’t be. Taipei is loaded with food. It has more night food markets than you can count. The cost of eating is low. And best of all, there are tons of dumplings and noodles. Taipei is a must for anyone who travels for food. 

Best Dish To Eat In Taipei : Dumplings, specifically the soup-filled, lighter-than-air, irresistible Xiao Long Bao, also known as “soup dumplings”. Pro-tip, let them cool down before you bite in. You can thank me later. 

Check out our Taipei Food Guide for more tips

Best Places to Eat in Taipei : Miaokou Night Market, Keelung. The hour direct train ride from Taipei to the Miaokou Night Market is worth it, trust me. The proximity of the nearby fishing port means the market is bursting with fresh seafood. Miaokou can get crowded but the amount and variety of food stalls more than makes up for the crowds. 

Seoul, South Korea

Korean food is often overlooked in terms of the great cuisines of the world. It’s unlike any other cuisine including others from Asia. Korean cuisine is influenced by Korea’s rough terrain and harsh climate.

No other Korean dish symbolizes this more than the national dish, kimchi. A fiery fermented cabbage that’s served at every meal. If you haven’t heard of Korean food, you certainly will. 

Best Dish To Eat In Seoul : It’s all about Korean BBQ (Gogigui). Pieces of grilled pork cooked tableside enjoyed with traditional Korean side dishes, including spicy kimchi. 

Check out our Seoul Food Guide for more tips

Best Places to Eat in Seoul : Head to Gwangjang Market in the evening to sample a wide range of delicious Korean street food treats. Enjoy dumplings, Korean pancakes, and best of all handmade noodles. Go hungry and say yes to everything. 

Foodie Destinations In Africa

Located off the coast of Africa and on the trade routes from India and the Middle East, Mauritius is perfectly situated to have it’s cuisine influenced by numerous outside forces. This certainly shows in dishes like Mauritian curry. While many people travel to Mauritius for the sun, sand, and water, it’s their food they will have you coming back. 

Best Dish To Eat In Mauritius : Mauritian curry. This is not Indian curry nor Thai curry. While Mauritian curry has influences from India, it’s uniquely Mauritian that you have to taste for yourself. 

Check out our Mauritius Food Guide for more tips

Best Places to Eat in Mauritius : Mauritius is filled with many hotels offering outstanding local Mauritian dishes. While we always advocate getting out and eating like a local, unless you are staying in Port Louis, this can be difficult. The Heritage Le Telfair Hotel in particular has several amazing dining options on their property. 

Flavorful. That’s Moroccan cuisine. Not that other international cuisines lack flavor, it’s just that Moroccan cuisine perfectly incorporates tons of amazing spices like cumin, turmeric, and ginger. Let’s not forget that the tagine might be the most underrated cooking vessel in the world. Add in a long history of outside influences and you’ve got an incredible cuisine. 

Best Dish To Eat In Morocco : Tagines and couscous are easily the most recognizable Moroccan dishes. If you are in Fez, make sure to look for their specialty, pastilla or b’stilla. A sweet and savory dish, shredded chicken is wrapped in a thin pasty, fried, and topped with cinnamon. Heaven!

Check out our Moroccan Food Guide for more tips

Best Places to Eat in Morocco : In addition to being the home of pastilla, Fes is the culinary capital of Morocco. It doesn’t hurt that traders have been bringing spices, produce, and cooking through Fes since 700 AD. In that time, a lot of culinary influences have been left behind waiting for new visitors to discover. 

Eric Hoffman

Eric Hoffman is the co-founder of Food And Drink Destinations. Eric is a lifelong traveler who is passionate about helping people learn how to travel for food. He lives with his wife, Amber, in Limerick, Ireland, after spending 3 years living in Spain. Over the last 20 years, they've traveled to over 70 countries together, always in search of great food travel experiences. Eric also loves cooking at home, always looking to perfect his Italian recipes.

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Travelling Without a Passport

The Best 6 Countries for Food and Drink

The best countries for food and drink are a treat for every single sense. What better way to experience a country than by discovering the local food and drink? Indulging in new culinary delights will broaden your horizons and palate. From baked camembert with a red Bordeaux in France to pakoras and chai in India, visit these countries if you love all things food and drink.

The Best Countries for Food and Drink

1. thailand.

The wonders of the Thai cuisine are as diverse and detailed as the country itself. With influences from countries such as China, Malaysia, Indonesia and Myanmar, Thai food is a combination of its many neighbouring nations.

The harmony of flavour is foremost in Thai cooking. The delicate balance of sweet, sour, salty, bitter and spicy tastes plays an essential part in the cuisine. The blending of many herbs and spices such as lemongrass, basil, coriander, chilli, garlic, lime juice, coconut milk and fermented fish sauce makes Thai food an aromatic journey for the senses.

Essential foodie experience

Try tom yam kung, a bright, spicy and sour soup. Fragrant herbs and spices such as lemongrass, galangal, kaffir lime leaves and crushed chilli peppers dominate this dish.

See Also: The Spicy Lover’s Guide to the Globe: A List of Every Spicy Food

France , arguably one of the most famous countries in the world for food and wine, does not disappoint. The French are notably passionate about their cuisine, seducing travellers on their journey with warm croissants, hearty cassoulet and locally produced wine.

Enjoy a pain au chocolat at a gorgeous sidewalk cafe, lunch on crepes sprinkled with lemon and sugar, and then stop for a quick croques-monsieur snack. Finish your day clinking your filled champagne flute in an ancient underground cellar. Combine it with a cheese tasting, and you’ll know why the rest of the world is in love with France.

Try macarons, a sweet, meringue-based, beautiful, confectionary sandwich. Macarons are a little bit of heaven and are famous for their bright, candy coloured flavours.

See Also: Your 12 Month Guide to the Best Food Festivals Around the World

In Spain time seems to slow down. Spaniards like to take their time preparing and enjoying their meals. They gather with family and friends around the table, savouring their meals and discussing all things at great lengths. Eating and drinking is a time to be treasured, and you will come away understanding why so many travellers are hooked on this country.

Like mealtime, the production of excellent wine is a labour of love. After a renaissance of sorts over the past few years, the country is now home to over fifty percent of the European Union’s vineyards. So if you are a wine lover, visit, tour and taste your way through the abundant countryside.

Try Rioja wine, a complex and flavorful red wine. Spaniards have been making this wine for over 2,000 years, and there is no wine region of which they are more proud.

Travel to: Spain

Even just the thought of Mexican cuisine conjures up vivid images: beans and corn, tortillas and tamales, tequila and margaritas. A fiesta for the senses, Mexico’s cuisine is like the country itself: fiery, colourful and never boring.

Discover cooking secrets from a local senora, and enjoy regional dishes such as tacos, chapulines, mezcal, coffee, chocolate and cochinita pibil. Learn all about tequila, how it’s produced and the best way to drink it. Mexico’s cuisine will get your heart pumping and your head spinning, and there’s no better way to enjoy it.

Try mole, an ancient sauce made of hot chillies and rich chocolate. Usually poured over enchiladas or stewed meats, this sauce is authentically Mexican.

See Also: 11 Mexican Dishes You Have to Put in Your Mouth Right Now

Italy is a paradise for food and wine lovers. Pizza and pasta are known all over the world but join the residents and feast on cold meats, rich stews, and indulgent desserts. Every meal in Italy is made with fresh flavourful ingredients and complemented with signature wines.

Be sure to visit the local markets and see how the locals shop for food. Enjoy a glass of wine and take in the views of the blissful Tuscan countryside. Experience an Italian cooking class in Florence, and enjoy  la dolce vita  and Italy in all its beauty.

Try  focaccia di Recco. This is a traditional classic dish from Liguria, in north-western Italy. It consists of a thin sheet of baked focaccia with a creamy layer of crescenza cheese in the middle .

See Also: Your Italian Food Bucket List: Naples and Amalfi Coast Edition

Famous for its lavish use of aromatic spices and depth of flavour, Indian food is considered one of the world’s greatest cuisines. Taking in all the sights, sounds and smells of this country is a delight, and be sure to participate in a traditional cooking class to make the most of it.

Each locale in the country has distinct dishes, ways of cooking and using ingredients. For example, the food in the south of India varies to that of the north. Down south the use of spicy chilli and coconutty flavours are favourited, in the northern regions, you’ll find Mughal influenced creamy nut-based gravies. The one thing you’ll see everywhere is piping hot tea, both sweet and spicy and some of the best can be found in holes in the wall throughout the country.

Try masala chai, originating in India, this mixed-spiced tea has grown in popularity over recent years. It is traditionally prepared with green cardamom pods, cinnamon sticks, ground cloves, ground ginger and black peppercorn combined with black tea leaves.

Travel to: India

Are you looking for more food adventure? Find more food adventures here.

Majella Grawatsch

Majella Grawatsch is a travel writer based in Vienna, Austria. Originally hailing from The Land Down Under (Australia), she uses her travel experience to contribute travel content and inspiring others to enjoy what the world has to offer.

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25 best countries for foodies to travel.

In this article, we take a look at the 25 best countries for foodies to travel. If you would like to skip our detailed analysis of the food service industry, you can directly go to 5 Best Countries For Foodies To Travel . 

Global Food Services Market: An Analysis

Historically, nutritional research has mainly focused on the physical effects of our diets; however, lately, the focus has shifted to how eating the ‘right’ food may impact our mental health. According to a report published in J Med Food, a healthy diet leads to a healthy gut, and microbes from a healthy gut produce serotonin and dopamine, neurotransmitters that regulate our moods and emotions. This significance of food is one of the several reasons why the global food service market was worth $2.39 trillion in 2022, according to a report by Fortune Business Insights. On top of that, the market is projected to grow to a whopping $5.42 trillion by 2030, exhibiting a CAGR of 10.79% over the forecasted period. One of the biggest trends pushing the growth of the food industry, especially in the developing world, is the increase of food courts and food malls in tier 2 and tier 3 cities.

Global Culinary Tourism Market to Grow By 17%

This is where globalization makes things a little interesting. Now people have the option to easily travel all over the world to find the countries with the best food quality . According to Future Market Insights , in 2022, the size of the culinary tourism market was valued at $976.68 billion, with a projected CAGR of 17% from 2023 to 2033. Modern tourists are much more focused on immersing themselves in the culture of the places they travel to, which increases the tourists’ demand for local food. In addition, the consumer trend is shifting to seeking authenticity in food, so food enthusiasts now like to travel to specific regions to taste the local cuisine in its most authentic form. 

This notion is further strengthened by the fact that in a survey conducted by the World Food Travel Association, 95% of Americans identified as food travelers, i.e., people interested in a ‘unique food experience’. Of all the travelers surveyed by the Association, 81% reported that food allows them to learn more about the local culture. Whether tourists enjoy dining at local restaurants or taking a shot at the country’s street food , one thing’s for sure: foodies are now traveling worldwide in search of their next favorite dish.

Major Restaurant Chain Operators

As foodies travel the world in search of new tastes, so do restaurant companies. As mentioned before, the food service industry, worth billions of dollars, contains several global chains that are working their magic all across the globe. Restaurant Brands International Inc (NYSE: QSR ) is one of the world’s biggest fast food holding companies. With over 30,000 restaurants in 100 countries worldwide, Restaurant Brands International Inc (NYSE:QSR) provides food lovers with a taste of home wherever they go.

But the corporation hasn’t limited itself. Location-specific items are one of the most significant ways fast food chains such as Restaurant Brands International Inc (NYSE:QSR) integrate local cuisine into their menus. Take Burger King, for example, Restaurant Brands International Inc.'s (NYSE:QSR) largest chain in terms of restaurant locations. Burger King’s region-specific specialties include Spicy Shrimp Whopper in Japan, Taro Pie in Malaysia, and Warm Belgian Waffles in Switzerland. These offerings mean foodies can enjoy local food with a hint of home in it.

In the third quarter of 2023, 29 hedge funds held positions in Restaurant Brands International Inc (NYSE:QSR) worth $2.23 billion. This is compared to 26 positions in the previous quarter with stakes worth $2.53 billion.

Darden Restaurants, Inc. (NYSE: DRI ) is also one of the world’s largest restaurant chains, with outlets in the US, Canada, and Latin America. Over the past 3 months, Darden Restaurants, Inc. (NYSE:DRI) has received Buy ratings from 15 Wall Street analysts. The stock has an average price target of $173.10 and a high forecast of $193. The stock has a consensus Strong Buy rating among analysts. As of December 22, Darden Restaurants, Inc. (NYSE:DRI) has gained over 15% on a year-to-date basis.

While culinary tourism opens people up to a world of new possibilities, many worry about health concerns as they eat in countries worldwide. Finding the healthiest food in the world takes work, especially when countries like the US are overtaken by fast food. Even though the US is the world’s largest fast food consumer , chains like Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc. (NYSE: CMG ) are stepping up with healthier menu options. With options like ‘Build-Your-Own’ and ‘Lifestyle Bowl’, Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc. (NYSE:CMG) gives customers the opportunity to take charge of their own diets. Furthermore, the corporation was the first national restaurant in the US to commit to 100% responsibly sourced meat. Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc. (NYSE:CMG) has made itself a global chain with restaurants in the UK, USA, Canada, Germany, and France.

On October 26, Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc. (NYSE:CMG) reported earnings for the fiscal third quarter of 2023. The company reported an EPS of $11.36 and outperformed EPS estimates by $0.73. The company's revenue for the quarter amounted to $2.47 billion, up 11.34% year over year. As of December 22, the stock has surged 68% on a year-to-date basis.

Let’s dive into whether or not these countries make it to our list of the best countries for foodies to travel to in 2024. As travel opportunities widen, the quest for delicious food continues.

Our Methodology

To compile this list of the 25 best countries for foodies to travel to, we adopted a consensus approach. We compiled a list of countries with the best food or cuisines from six different sources: US News, TasteAtlas, CNN, Ranker.org, World of Statistics, and a travel blog named My Adventures Across The World. Our chosen countries were present in at least four out of six sources. The countries were then ranked according to the average of their ranks in all the sources they were present in. For countries that came up to the same average, the tie was broken based on the number of times they made it to the top 15 ranking. 

By the way, Insider Monkey is an investing website that tracks the movements of corporate insiders and hedge funds. By using a consensus approach, we identify the best stock picks of more than 900 hedge funds investing in US stocks. The top 10 consensus stock picks of hedge funds outperformed the S&P 500 Index by more than 140 percentage points over the last 10 years ( see the details here ). Whether you are a beginner investor or a professional one looking for the best stocks to buy, you can benefit from the wisdom of hedge funds and corporate insiders.

Average Rank: 26.5

Chile boasts a diverse climate, which gives way to a wide range of agricultural produce. This is why Chilean food is mostly famous for its vast variety of flavors and ingredients, which lead to diversity in the food palette. Their food is a unique blend of indigenous traditions and elements brought by European immigrants and Spanish colonizers. Moreover, because fresh produce is a big part of the cuisine, much of the food is healthier. 

24. South Korea

Average Rank: 22.4 

Food is a central part of South Korean culture and one of the main things people socialize over. The integral role that food plays in the country can be determined by the fact that Seoul was ranked as the culinary capital of the world by Audley Travel. The city has over 4,900 five-star restaurants, making South Korea one of the countries with the best restaurants. 

23. Hungary

Average Rank: 22.2

Hungarian food is known for its spices, which may be misleading because most varieties are sweet rather than hot. Paprika is one of the most essential spices for local cuisine, with many variations ranging from sweet to extremely spicy. Hungarian households dedicated a significant portion of their budget towards spending on food, especially pork, even as food inflation reached an all-time high of 47% in December of 2022. 

22. South Africa

Average Rank: 21.5 

The South African food market is the largest in Africa, with retail food sales amounting to $38 billion in 2022. The market is concentrated between the five largest players, who collectively hold 80% of it. The food service industry of the MENA region as a whole has experienced significant economic growth recently, much of which can be attributed to the fast-growing hospitality and tourist industry in South Africa, which makes it a win-win situation for culinary travelers. 

21. Malaysia

Average Rank: 20

Using a range of sauces and different oils is one of the main parts of cooking a Malaysian dish, which gives the cuisine such flavor that makes Malaysia one of the best countries for foodies to travel. Malaysian food also takes influence from Indian and Chinese cuisines, both of which offer a unique touch to the dishes. Street food, especially that made with fish and stingrays, is a major part of Malaysia’s culinary culture. 

American food usually gets a bad reputation due to the overuse of meat and oil. But one significant factor that many people tend to forget is that because America is the ‘land of immigrants’, its food is also an amalgamation of cultures from around the world. Dishes from various countries were brought here and reimagined with a unique American touch, which makes them all the more interesting. Considering that the US has over 1,500 cultural and ethnic groups, food is bound to be a delicacy in the country. 

19. Germany

Average Rank: 18.5

Germany is the largest country in the European food service industry in terms of regional production, convenience, health and wellness, and ethnic cuisines. The European food industry as a whole has faced significant growth because of an increased demand for eating out and prepared food items, owing to busier lifestyles. The high spending capacity of German consumers means that food is often high-quality and prepared with locally sourced ingredients, making Germany one of the best countries for foodies in 2024. 

Average Rank: 18.5 

Polish cuisine is filled with items considered to be comfort food, such as dumplings and stew. Up until the 20th century, meat was a luxury available to only a few rich elites in Poland, due to which many traditional dishes have strong vegetarian components, making them perfect for people who wish to avoid meat. The country is highly famous for its vodka, which makes a wonderful pairing with the food. 

17. Argentina

Average Rank: 18

Americans would especially enjoy food in Argentina because meat, especially beef, is a major part of the country’s cuisine. Argentinian steakhouses have traveled all over the world, also finding a place within America’s food service industry. This popularity explains why Argentina is one of the world’s best countries for foodies. 

16. Morocco

Average: 17.5 

Moroccan cuisine is a blend of Berber, Andalusian, Mediterranean, and Arab roots, which makes it a mixture of culinary influences and rich, aromatic flavors. While the dishes require a lot of spices, they’re paired with a sweet-and-savory flavor, giving a unique taste profile to each plate. The food processing sector in Morocco plays a major role in the country’s economy, contributing 6% to the national GDP. 

15. Vietnam

Average Rank: 16.8

Vietnamese food minimally relies on oil or dairy and instead emphasizes bringing out the fresh flavors of herbs and vegetables. This means Vietnam is one of the best countries for foodies who want delicious while staying conscious about their health. Vietnam is also one of the countries with the best coffee , so tourists will always have something exciting to turn to during food breaks. 

14. Peru 

Peruvian gastronomy is one of the best in the world due to the massive diversity of the country's traditional dishes. Even the modern variants incorporate influences from all around the world. Vegetables are a crucial component of the cuisine, which is understandable considering that the country has over 4,000 varieties of potatoes alone. The World Travel Awards have consecutively awarded Peru with the title of the World’s Leading Culinary Destination for many years. On the list of the World’s 50 Best Restaurants, Central from Lima, Peru, takes the first spot, making Peru one of the countries with the best restaurants. 

13. Turkey 

Average Rank: 15 

Restaurants and fast food chains have slowly been gaining popularity in Turkey, but homecooked meals constitute a significant part of the local culture. While some features of Turkish cuisine are similar to Middle Eastern cooking, the food also gets a touch from the country’s Western side. The country has a way of combining meat with fruits and nuts, which is something not commonly seen in American cuisine. 

12. Indonesia

Average Rank: 14.4

Indonesia takes the crown for being the largest food service market in Southeast Asia. While the whole country is well-known for its brilliant use of spices, Bali, in particular, sets itself apart. Street food is a significant part of the cuisine, and dishes are unique yet uncomplicated. Most food items are sourced from local farmers, and the island is a dream come true for fans of plant-based diets. 

Average Rank: 14.3 

According to Business Insider India , the Indian food and beverage industry is the 8th largest in the country by the number of billionaires. The industry also makes up a major chunk of the consumer packaged foods industry. Indian cuisine has become popular worldwide because of its unique and diverse regional cooking styles and ingredients that offer something for everyone. Whether you’re a vegetarian or a carnivore, the country will provide you with some of the best dishes. 

10. Thailand

Average Rank: 14

CNN lists Thailand’s Massaman Curry as the best dish in the world before adding several other dishes from the cuisine to their ranking. According to CNN, the dish captures sweet, savory, and spicy flavors in one little plate, making Thailand one of the best countries for foodies to travel. 

Average Ranking: 11.5

Brazil has a vast selection of tropical fruits like acai and jaboticaba, which make an exciting addition to the cuisine. Cheese is a significant portion of the local cuisine, much of which focuses on bite-sized food that can be devoured as snacks. Brazil was doing Acai Bowls long before they became famous in the US, so authentic taste can only be obtained by visiting the country. 

Average Rank: 11.3

With over 3.35 million searches per month , Chinese cuisine is the most googled cuisine in the  US, which makes China one of the best countries for American foodies. China is also the world’s largest food producer in absolute terms, showcasing the country’s love for food. Chinese cuisine became one of the most popular ones around the world during the 80s and has always been known for its sophisticated processing. 

07. Portugal

Average Rank: 10.8

Fish, meat, and olive oil are major elements of Portuguese cuisine, along with the Java Bean, which was once brought by Arab occupiers. Despite being the simplest item, bread is a major part of almost every meal, making Portugal one of the countries with the best bread . The recipes are drastically different from other European cuisines and incorporate a lot of grilling. 

Average Rank: 10.2

It’s no surprise that France is one of the best countries for foodies to travel to because it is known all over the world for its food and drink culture. French cuisine focuses heavily on formal techniques and presentation, because of which the country has produced a high number of talented chefs. Becoming a chef in the country is no easy feat, as it requires mastery of a massive range of French cooking fundamentals. Paris was rated as the 4th culinary capital of the world by Audley Travel, with over 2,000 five-star restaurants and 199 Michelin-starred restaurants, the second highest in the world. 

Click to continue reading and see the 5 Best Countries For Foodies To Travel .

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Disclosure: None. 25 Best Countries For Foodies To Travel is originally published on Insider Monkey. 

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The hottest foodie destinations in Europe right now

By Sarah James

For serious flavour hunters, going on a trip is a chance to seek out the next remember-it-forever supper. In Europe , farm-to-fork feasts are drawing a mellowed-out crowd in Ibiza , while next-gen bakeries run by ex-Noma chefs in Copenhagen are turning out trays of superior sticky cinnamon buns and buttery sourdough croissants. But foodie highlights can also be found in less expected places – not just in San Sebastián or the French city of Lyon but on far-flung Greek islands , quiet stretches of Spain ’s Costa Dorada and in tiny Scottish seaside towns, too. This is our pick of the best getaways and city breaks in Europe that will satisfy the eternally hungry traveller, plus the tables to book when you get there – including the Michelin-starred restaurants to plan your next trip around and the low-key bars where the food is every bit as delicious and there’s not a white tablecloth in sight.

These are the best destinations for a foodie break right now.

Seville, Spain

Best for: all-day dining

If you're more into all-day grazing than over-indulging on hefty suppers, Seville is your best bet. Eating out here is less about three square meals and more about constructing your day around food. The food culture here is strong and traditional: regional specialities include Andalusian gazpacho, fried fish and sherry, and we recommend ordering tapas at multiple bars throughout the day, to squeeze as many different eateries and dishes into your trip as possible. El Rinconcillo (pictured), is a firm favourite among locals and visitors; billing itself as the oldest tapas bar in Seville , there are classic tiles, cured hanging hams and walls lined with bottles.

Lisbon, Portugal

Best for: affordable restaurants

Lisbon has a lot going for it at the best of times – but right now, it's firmly on our radar after being named the cheapest European city break for 2023 . A three-course meal here costs an average of £39.01, according to recent research by The Post Office, while a 330ml bottle of beer in a traditional bar costs a measly £2.26 – cheaper than any other city in the top 10. These eateries aren't just wallet-friendly, either. Lisbon's best restaurants are firmly putting the Portuguese capital on the foodie map. Traditional food is best found at one of the city’s tascas – these are casual eateries serving very local dishes. But there are also modern restaurants worth checking out, too – Belcanto, for example, was the first restaurant in Lisbon to earn two Michelin stars.

Bologna, Italy

Best for: authentic Italian cuisine

Italy is not wanting for airtime on this list – below, we've also recommended Naples , The Dolomites and Sardinia . But Bologna recently topped our Readers' Choice Awards rankings as the best city for food anywhere in the world – so it felt worthy of a mention here, too. Folded into the northern Emilia Romagna region, Bologna is nicknamed, among other things, “La Grossa” or “the fat one”. This region is the home of parmesan, parma ham, mortadella balsamic vinegar, lasagne, tortellini in broth and bolognese. But Bologna is comparatively under-visited compared to many of Italy's big-hitting cities, which means a trip here feels delightfully under the radar. Visit the best restaurants in Bologna for gramigne alla salsiccia (sausage pasta) at Trattoria Bertozzi or ricotta-filled tortelloni in San Marzano tomato at All’Osteria Bottega.

The Dolomites, Italy

Best for: slow food

Forget what you think you know about pasta al limone and Aperol Spritz – this corner of Italy , concealed in the north-eastern mountains, might as well be a different nation when it comes to food. Locals often don’t even speak Italian, and the Alpine villages, backed by craggy mountain peaks, are simultaneously rooted in rural traditions while looking forward to a greener future. More than 85 per cent of energy-efficient-certified houses in Italy are in South Tyrol , and the region draws heavily on sustainable energy sources to power its exceptional hotels. Restaurants here were creating locally sourced, seasonal menus long before it was standard practice, while wine grown in the mountains is biodynamic and low intervention. At widescreen glass box Alpinn ( above ), order plates of beef belly with a smoked hay glaze and South Tyrolean steak, or eat at tiny Gostner Schwaige for a wholly foraged menu of cheeses and meats, herby soups and slivers of beef.

Paris, France

Best for: the classics

It’s not the most unexpected or unusual destination on this list, but Paris is a classic for all the right reasons. If you’re looking for juicy steaks with impossibly thin frites, followed by retro crème brȗlée with that sought-after satisfying crack, we recommend the 2017 opening Le Cadoret. This is the quintessential local bistro in Belleville with a surprising craft beer offering. More contemporary, dramatic dishes are better sought out at restaurants such as Maison (order the pigeon), while eco-thinking diners should book a table at zero-waste Le Rigmarole. Pick up the perfect croissant at La Pâtisserie by Cyril Lignac and macarons at Pierre Hermé. And the French capital is home to some of the prettiest dining rooms, too (see our edit of the most beautiful restaurants in Paris for proof).

Naples, Italy

Best for: pizza-lovers

' Naples has more in common with Mexico City than Milan ,’ one local told us on our latest visit to this gritty Italian metropolis. But despite its frenetic alleys and faded architecture , Naples is the epicentre of Italian cooking, where dishes are stripped back to their purest, most delicious forms, and often sold cheaply. The food here is more democratic than in Venice or Rome or the nearby but worlds away towns of the Amalfi Coast . Perhaps surprisingly, Naples has more Michelin stars than any of its glossier sisters – at one-starred Veritas, order soul-food dishes of simple spaghetti with anchovies and butter. Seafood-focussed L’Altro Coco Loco is Michelin-tipped for its sashimi and lobster linguine. And of course, Naples is the spiritual home of the world’s best pizzas – share one at every hole-in-the-wall you come across and make your ranking of the best of the bunch.

Sardinia, Italy

Best for: a unique perspective on Italian cooking

This island – cast adrift in the Mediterranean – is distinctly Italian and yet also unique. While Italy is known for its grand cities, Sardinia is more rustic, wilder. The stripped-back nature of the island is evident in its food culture. Pillowy fermented pizzas are topped with smoked salmon and cauliflower at Cagliari's Framento pizzeria, while suckling pig is the dish to try at Su Gologone, one of the top hotels on the island. Sardinia’s distinct landscape is one of its loveliest attributes, with mountains and forests giving way to the brightest white beaches. The food heritage charts the varying topography – order seafood by the coast and mutton in the mountains.

Best for: off-the-beaten-track explorers

Slovenia’s food scene was on clever travellers' radars long before the Michelin guide launched there in 2020. Hisa Franko , of Chef’s Table fame, had already made the World’s 50 Best Restaurants list multiple times, but there are murmurs about the country’s more traditional cooking and biodynamic wineries too. Six restaurants in the country were awarded a star in 2020, including Ana Ros’s aforementioned Hiša Franko and Dam in Nova Gorica, where people go for the best seafood. In 2021, it was named the European Region of Gastronomy for its emphasis on local produce and sustainable cooking. Fifty-two types of grape are grown here and Slovenia produces what’s currently lauded as the world’s best orange wine – a Dolium Muscat Ottonel. This has long been an under-the-radar corner of Europe that’s finally finding its space among the big players.

Laura Fowler

Charlie Hobbs

Olivia Morelli

Darcie Imbert

Ibiza, Spain

Best for: farm-to-fork eating

Ibiza is hardly known best for its food scene. But the White Isle’s ravers have matured along with it, mellowing out and moving north to the quieter towns, far away from the mega-clubs and big hotels of the south. There’s always been a rural edge to Ibiza: farmers here were harvesting almonds and olive groves long before the organic revolution spread to eco-warriors and zero-waste pioneers in London , Brighton and Bristol and beyond. The island’s flavours can be found in its classic restaurants – we like Es Ventall and Aubergine – where colourful salads, fresh pasta topped with locally made buffalo ricotta and vegan puddings are dished up on rustic, shady terraces. Or head to farmsteads such as La Granja , a 300-year-old cottage set in a 24-acre plantation from former Design Hotels’ CEO Claus Sendlinger, where homemade kombucha is served overlooking scrubby farmland and suppers are eaten communally in the laid-back gardens.

Basque Country

Best for: Michelin-starred dining

The Basque Country doesn’t feel Spanish or French, although it straddles both countries. When it comes to food, it is its own entity, with an entrenched culture that draws on generations of knowledge. The epicentre is the coastal town of San Sebastián, glittering with 18 Michelin stars, which puts it up there with Kyoto , Paris and Lyon in terms of density of accolades per square metre. Mugaritz, set in a traditional house in the hills, is probably San Sebastián 's most lauded restaurant; 24 courses take Basque ingredients such as tongue and turn them into provocative and unusual dishes, so the menu could include loin of milk-fed lamb served in a ragout of its brains or snails in ceviche. An hour’s drive inland, Asador Etxebarri – a restaurant at the foot of the mountains where locally born chef Victor Arguinzoniz cooks everything over an open grill – climbed to the third spot in the 2019 50 Best Restaurants list. And San Sebastián institution Arzak, now under the helm of Elena Arzak , has held three of the city’s Michelin stars since 1989. Seriously high standards are upheld all over the Basque Country, with a deliciously high-low mix: dine on pintxos (Basque tapas) from hole-in-the-wall bars in San Sebastián’s old town by day and go for a full white tablecloth supper by night.

Copenhagen, Denmark

Best for: next-gen Scandi suppers

Everyone knows about Copenhagen ’s foodie credentials. Noma, arguably the most famous restaurant in the world, opened in 2003. It first appeared in the 50 Best Restaurants List in 2006, when chef-founder René Redzepi was just 28, and topped the list four years later in 2010 – although it will close soon. The ultimate Scandi city is no stranger, then, to the foodie traveller. But instead of sitting pretty, smug in its long-standing game-changing status, this is a place that’s constantly reinventing itself. Many of Noma’s ex-chefs now head up their own establishments in the city. Even the breakfast spots are headed up by chefs with serious CVs. Mirabelle , the relaxed all-day sister of now-closed Michelin-starred Relæ, sells – among other next-level treats – sourdough croissants in the city’s coolest neighbourhood. And, of course, Geranium – a fine-dining restaurant in a football stadium – took the top spot on the World's 50 Best Restaurants in 2022.

Galicia, Spain

Best for: an under-the-radar experience

Visited by most as part of the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage, Galicia is Spain’s insider secret – a stretch of coast long-overlooked in favour of the Basque Country or the Balearic islands . It’s made up of a handful of estuaries, sheltered by isles. The smartest of the Spanish style set have been visiting for decades. And the landscape here is brilliant for growing wines, which are made to match the local shellfish and octopus. Take weekend-long breaks in the region with North West Iberia Wine Tours, which visit some of the finest vineyards, or just slowly hop from one wine bar to the next, feasting on tapas of oysters, seaweed and sardines.

Lyon, France

Best for: classic French gastronomy

Lyon is the original foodie city. It’s where nouvelle cuisine was born, where top French chefs such as Paul Bocuse became famed for their fine-dining restaurants and where a new vanguard of young chefs are now putting their spin on centuries-old tradition. The food-obsessed flock first to the bouchons , rustic restaurants that serve local dishes rather than fancy plates. There are only about 20 authentic bouchons , the loveliest of which can be found on rue Saint-Jean – grab a table at any of them and order coq au vin and cardon au gratin (part of the sunflower family, it's a bit like an artichoke cooked with cream and cheese). Next comes a visit to the city’s markets. Each stall is stacked with gloriously wonky fruit and vegetables, ugly but delicious sausages and the freshest fish – try Saint-Antoine for an old-school French market day and Les Halles for a smarter, indoor food court.

Sifnos, Greece

Best for: a taste of island life

Sifnos has been thought of as Greece’s foodiest island for more than 100 years. In 1910 islander Nicholas Tselementes started publishing Greek recipes and he quickly became the most influential food writer in the country – his name, Tselementes, is synonymous with the Greek word for cookbook. These days, the freshest fish is served at seafront cafés such as Cheronissos Fish taverna, where diners eat just-caught, perfectly grilled lobster overlooking the translucent Aegean. Sandy beach Platis Gialos is backed by a string of relaxed restaurants where locals and tourists jostle for space on the stools and in the winding, polished back streets, tavernas dish up chickpea stews (chickpeas are a staple on Sifnos) and slow-roasted goat.

Now read: Sifnos: the most delicious Greek island

Galway City and the Burren, Ireland

Best for: trying local produce

The landscape of the Burren in County Clare is unlike anywhere else in Ireland , with a lunar-like karst-limestone coastline. And the surrounding countryside is making a name for itself due to its foodie credentials. Follow the Burren Food Trail of cheesemakers, farmers’ markets and ice-cream churners to a remote hillside to find bean-to-bar chocolate factory Hazel Mountain Chocolate, which sells Willy Wonka slabs. While the Burren Smokehouse cures wild Irish salmon, rainbow trout and mackerel and Wild Kitchen runs sea-foraging classes on a deserted beach. Just north of the Burren, the boho city of Galway has been put on the flavour hunter’s radar by dynamic chef JP McMahon. For an elevated taste of the region book a table at his restaurant Aniar (one of the city’s two Michelin-starred addresses), which serves oyster ice cream and fermented potato foam, or Loam which offers nine-course tasting menus as well as a wine-bar list of cheese and charcuterie boards loaded with house-cured lardo and the best Irish cheese. Grainne McBride

Best for: feasts in the wilderness

Reached by an 80-minute ferry from Copenhagen, Bornholm is technically part of Denmark , yet positioned way off in the Baltic Sea between Sweden and Poland . Unusually for any slip of land this far north, the weather is quite sunny and warm; the coastline is made up of granite which absorbs the heat of the summer and keeps the island feeling mild into the autumn. That means there’s a long growing season, natural, local produce is abundant and chefs are flocking here to find it. At Michelin-starred Kadeau, local feasts of shrimp, just-picked kale and fermented corn are served in the café, which has enormous windows overlooking the waves below. Other spots on the island dish up more relaxed, unfussy meals – Skipperkroen is one of our favourites – and there’s open-to-anyone farmers’ market Gaarden which also hosts cooking classes in hot-smoking or beer brewing.

25 Best Countries For Foodies To Travel

Published on december 22, 2023 at 5:01 pm by zahaab rehman in business , lists , news.

In this article, we take a look at the 25 best countries for foodies to travel. If you would like to skip our detailed analysis of the food service industry, you can directly go to 5 Best Countries For Foodies To Travel . 

Global Food Services Market: An Analysis

Historically, nutritional research has mainly focused on the physical effects of our diets; however, lately, the focus has shifted to how eating the ‘right’ food may impact our mental health. According to a report published in J Med Food, a healthy diet leads to a healthy gut, and microbes from a healthy gut produce serotonin and dopamine, neurotransmitters that regulate our moods and emotions. This significance of food is one of the several reasons why the global food service market was worth $2.39 trillion in 2022, according to a report by Fortune Business Insights. On top of that, the market is projected to grow to a whopping $5.42 trillion by 2030, exhibiting a CAGR of 10.79% over the forecasted period. One of the biggest trends pushing the growth of the food industry, especially in the developing world, is the increase of food courts and food malls in tier 2 and tier 3 cities.

Global Culinary Tourism Market to Grow By 17%

This is where globalization makes things a little interesting. Now people have the option to easily travel all over the world to find the countries with the best food quality . According to Future Market Insights , in 2022, the size of the culinary tourism market was valued at $976.68 billion, with a projected CAGR of 17% from 2023 to 2033. Modern tourists are much more focused on immersing themselves in the culture of the places they travel to, which increases the tourists’ demand for local food. In addition, the consumer trend is shifting to seeking authenticity in food, so food enthusiasts now like to travel to specific regions to taste the local cuisine in its most authentic form. 

This notion is further strengthened by the fact that in a survey conducted by the World Food Travel Association, 95% of Americans identified as food travelers, i.e., people interested in a ‘unique food experience’. Of all the travelers surveyed by the Association, 81% reported that food allows them to learn more about the local culture. Whether tourists enjoy dining at local restaurants or taking a shot at the country’s street food , one thing’s for sure: foodies are now traveling worldwide in search of their next favorite dish.

Major Restaurant Chain Operators

As foodies travel the world in search of new tastes, so do restaurant companies. As mentioned before, the food service industry, worth billions of dollars, contains several global chains that are working their magic all across the globe. Restaurant Brands International Inc (NYSE: QSR ) is one of the world’s biggest fast food holding companies. With over 30,000 restaurants in 100 countries worldwide, Restaurant Brands International Inc (NYSE:QSR) provides food lovers with a taste of home wherever they go.

But the corporation hasn’t limited itself. Location-specific items are one of the most significant ways fast food chains such as Restaurant Brands International Inc (NYSE:QSR) integrate local cuisine into their menus. Take Burger King, for example, Restaurant Brands International Inc.’s (NYSE:QSR) largest chain in terms of restaurant locations. Burger King’s region-specific specialties include Spicy Shrimp Whopper in Japan, Taro Pie in Malaysia, and Warm Belgian Waffles in Switzerland. These offerings mean foodies can enjoy local food with a hint of home in it.

In the third quarter of 2023, 29 hedge funds held positions in Restaurant Brands International Inc (NYSE:QSR) worth $2.23 billion. This is compared to 26 positions in the previous quarter with stakes worth $2.53 billion.

Darden Restaurants, Inc. (NYSE: DRI ) is also one of the world’s largest restaurant chains, with outlets in the US, Canada, and Latin America. Over the past 3 months, Darden Restaurants, Inc. (NYSE:DRI) has received Buy ratings from 15 Wall Street analysts. The stock has an average price target of $173.10 and a high forecast of $193. The stock has a consensus Strong Buy rating among analysts. As of December 22, Darden Restaurants, Inc. (NYSE:DRI) has gained over 15% on a year-to-date basis.

While culinary tourism opens people up to a world of new possibilities, many worry about health concerns as they eat in countries worldwide. Finding the healthiest food in the world takes work, especially when countries like the US are overtaken by fast food. Even though the US is the world’s largest fast food consumer , chains like Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc. (NYSE: CMG ) are stepping up with healthier menu options. With options like ‘Build-Your-Own’ and ‘Lifestyle Bowl’, Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc. (NYSE:CMG) gives customers the opportunity to take charge of their own diets. Furthermore, the corporation was the first national restaurant in the US to commit to 100% responsibly sourced meat. Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc. (NYSE:CMG) has made itself a global chain with restaurants in the UK, USA, Canada, Germany, and France.

On October 26, Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc. (NYSE:CMG) reported earnings for the fiscal third quarter of 2023. The company reported an EPS of $11.36 and outperformed EPS estimates by $0.73. The company’s revenue for the quarter amounted to $2.47 billion, up 11.34% year over year. As of December 22, the stock has surged 68% on a year-to-date basis.

Let’s dive into whether or not these countries make it to our list of the best countries for foodies to travel to in 2024. As travel opportunities widen, the quest for delicious food continues.

Our Methodology

To compile this list of the 25 best countries for foodies to travel to, we adopted a consensus approach. We compiled a list of countries with the best food or cuisines from six different sources: US News, TasteAtlas, CNN, Ranker.org, World of Statistics, and a travel blog named My Adventures Across The World. Our chosen countries were present in at least four out of six sources. The countries were then ranked according to the average of their ranks in all the sources they were present in. For countries that came up to the same average, the tie was broken based on the number of times they made it to the top 15 ranking. 

By the way, Insider Monkey is an investing website that tracks the movements of corporate insiders and hedge funds. By using a consensus approach, we identify the best stock picks of more than 900 hedge funds investing in US stocks. The top 10 consensus stock picks of hedge funds outperformed the S&P 500 Index by more than 140 percentage points over the last 10 years ( see the details here ). Whether you are a beginner investor or a professional one looking for the best stocks to buy, you can benefit from the wisdom of hedge funds and corporate insiders.

Average Rank: 26.5

Chile boasts a diverse climate, which gives way to a wide range of agricultural produce. This is why Chilean food is mostly famous for its vast variety of flavors and ingredients, which lead to diversity in the food palette. Their food is a unique blend of indigenous traditions and elements brought by European immigrants and Spanish colonizers. Moreover, because fresh produce is a big part of the cuisine, much of the food is healthier. 

24. South Korea

Average Rank: 22.4 

Food is a central part of South Korean culture and one of the main things people socialize over. The integral role that food plays in the country can be determined by the fact that Seoul was ranked as the culinary capital of the world by Audley Travel. The city has over 4,900 five-star restaurants, making South Korea one of the countries with the best restaurants. 

23. Hungary

Average Rank: 22.2

Hungarian food is known for its spices, which may be misleading because most varieties are sweet rather than hot. Paprika is one of the most essential spices for local cuisine, with many variations ranging from sweet to extremely spicy. Hungarian households dedicated a significant portion of their budget towards spending on food, especially pork, even as food inflation reached an all-time high of 47% in December of 2022. 

22. South Africa

Average Rank: 21.5 

The South African food market is the largest in Africa, with retail food sales amounting to $38 billion in 2022. The market is concentrated between the five largest players, who collectively hold 80% of it. The food service industry of the MENA region as a whole has experienced significant economic growth recently, much of which can be attributed to the fast-growing hospitality and tourist industry in South Africa, which makes it a win-win situation for culinary travelers. 

21. Malaysia

Average Rank: 20

Using a range of sauces and different oils is one of the main parts of cooking a Malaysian dish, which gives the cuisine such flavor that makes Malaysia one of the best countries for foodies to travel. Malaysian food also takes influence from Indian and Chinese cuisines, both of which offer a unique touch to the dishes. Street food, especially that made with fish and stingrays, is a major part of Malaysia’s culinary culture. 

American food usually gets a bad reputation due to the overuse of meat and oil. But one significant factor that many people tend to forget is that because America is the ‘land of immigrants’, its food is also an amalgamation of cultures from around the world. Dishes from various countries were brought here and reimagined with a unique American touch, which makes them all the more interesting. Considering that the US has over 1,500 cultural and ethnic groups, food is bound to be a delicacy in the country. 

19. Germany

Average Rank: 18.5

Germany is the largest country in the European food service industry in terms of regional production, convenience, health and wellness, and ethnic cuisines. The European food industry as a whole has faced significant growth because of an increased demand for eating out and prepared food items, owing to busier lifestyles. The high spending capacity of German consumers means that food is often high-quality and prepared with locally sourced ingredients, making Germany one of the best countries for foodies in 2024. 

Average Rank: 18.5 

Polish cuisine is filled with items considered to be comfort food, such as dumplings and stew. Up until the 20th century, meat was a luxury available to only a few rich elites in Poland, due to which many traditional dishes have strong vegetarian components, making them perfect for people who wish to avoid meat. The country is highly famous for its vodka, which makes a wonderful pairing with the food. 

17. Argentina

Average Rank: 18

Americans would especially enjoy food in Argentina because meat, especially beef, is a major part of the country’s cuisine. Argentinian steakhouses have traveled all over the world, also finding a place within America’s food service industry. This popularity explains why Argentina is one of the world’s best countries for foodies. 

16. Morocco

Average: 17.5 

Moroccan cuisine is a blend of Berber, Andalusian, Mediterranean, and Arab roots, which makes it a mixture of culinary influences and rich, aromatic flavors. While the dishes require a lot of spices, they’re paired with a sweet-and-savory flavor, giving a unique taste profile to each plate. The food processing sector in Morocco plays a major role in the country’s economy, contributing 6% to the national GDP. 

15. Vietnam

Average Rank: 16.8

Vietnamese food minimally relies on oil or dairy and instead emphasizes bringing out the fresh flavors of herbs and vegetables. This means Vietnam is one of the best countries for foodies who want delicious while staying conscious about their health. Vietnam is also one of the countries with the best coffee , so tourists will always have something exciting to turn to during food breaks. 

Peruvian gastronomy is one of the best in the world due to the massive diversity of the country’s traditional dishes. Even the modern variants incorporate influences from all around the world. Vegetables are a crucial component of the cuisine, which is understandable considering that the country has over 4,000 varieties of potatoes alone. The World Travel Awards have consecutively awarded Peru with the title of the World’s Leading Culinary Destination for many years. On the list of the World’s 50 Best Restaurants, Central from Lima, Peru, takes the first spot, making Peru one of the countries with the best restaurants. 

13. Turkey 

Average Rank: 15 

Restaurants and fast food chains have slowly been gaining popularity in Turkey, but homecooked meals constitute a significant part of the local culture. While some features of Turkish cuisine are similar to Middle Eastern cooking, the food also gets a touch from the country’s Western side. The country has a way of combining meat with fruits and nuts, which is something not commonly seen in American cuisine. 

12. Indonesia

Average Rank: 14.4

Indonesia takes the crown for being the largest food service market in Southeast Asia. While the whole country is well-known for its brilliant use of spices, Bali, in particular, sets itself apart. Street food is a significant part of the cuisine, and dishes are unique yet uncomplicated. Most food items are sourced from local farmers, and the island is a dream come true for fans of plant-based diets. 

Average Rank: 14.3 

According to Business Insider India , the Indian food and beverage industry is the 8th largest in the country by the number of billionaires. The industry also makes up a major chunk of the consumer packaged foods industry. Indian cuisine has become popular worldwide because of its unique and diverse regional cooking styles and ingredients that offer something for everyone. Whether you’re a vegetarian or a carnivore, the country will provide you with some of the best dishes. 

10. Thailand

Average Rank: 14

CNN lists Thailand’s Massaman Curry as the best dish in the world before adding several other dishes from the cuisine to their ranking. According to CNN, the dish captures sweet, savory, and spicy flavors in one little plate, making Thailand one of the best countries for foodies to travel. 

Average Ranking: 11.5

Brazil has a vast selection of tropical fruits like acai and jaboticaba, which make an exciting addition to the cuisine. Cheese is a significant portion of the local cuisine, much of which focuses on bite-sized food that can be devoured as snacks. Brazil was doing Acai Bowls long before they became famous in the US, so authentic taste can only be obtained by visiting the country. 

Average Rank: 11.3

With over 3.35 million searches per month , Chinese cuisine is the most googled cuisine in the  US, which makes China one of the best countries for American foodies. China is also the world’s largest food producer in absolute terms, showcasing the country’s love for food. Chinese cuisine became one of the most popular ones around the world during the 80s and has always been known for its sophisticated processing. 

07. Portugal

Average Rank: 10.8

Fish, meat, and olive oil are major elements of Portuguese cuisine, along with the Java Bean, which was once brought by Arab occupiers. Despite being the simplest item, bread is a major part of almost every meal, making Portugal one of the countries with the best bread . The recipes are drastically different from other European cuisines and incorporate a lot of grilling. 

Average Rank: 10.2

It’s no surprise that France is one of the best countries for foodies to travel to because it is known all over the world for its food and drink culture. French cuisine focuses heavily on formal techniques and presentation, because of which the country has produced a high number of talented chefs. Becoming a chef in the country is no easy feat, as it requires mastery of a massive range of French cooking fundamentals. Paris was rated as the 4th culinary capital of the world by Audley Travel, with over 2,000 five-star restaurants and 199 Michelin-starred restaurants, the second highest in the world. 

Click to continue reading and see the 5 Best Countries For Foodies To Travel .

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Disclosure: None. 25 Best Countries For Foodies To Travel is originally published on Insider Monkey. 

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AI Fire Sale: Insider Monkey’s #1 AI Stock Pick Is On A Steep Discount

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50-year Wall Street Insider Names #1 stock for AI “Tidal Wave”

Published on april 1, 2024 at by insider monkey staff.

Should I put my money in Artificial Intelligence?

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Click to continue reading…

• Food & Drink
• Food & Drink

Eating Europe’s Guide to the Top 15 Foodiest Cities in Europe

Planning to holiday throughout Europe and not sure how to decide which cities to visit? Some people might base their itinerary on famous or historical sights, but we foodies look to research which cities will be the best food and wine destinations to enhance our overall travel experience. You might ask yourself which are the most foodie cities in Europe? When thinking about food in Europe, the first places that come to mind are probably Italy and France, because the traditions grab at those heart strings. Strangely enough, though, some of the best European restaurants are located in northern countries; and often, as is the case in France and Italy, you must leave the biggest towns to have the most genuine foodie experience.

So which could be a suitable metric to decide where to go? Surely, the Michelin star ranking is a good starting point, as this guarantees a perfect dining experience. In my opinion, however, a star (or even 3 stars!) is not enough. You have to adjust your ranking, because a city can be a real “foodie city” even without boasting any stars… let me explain in the following list, in reverse order from 15 th through to number 1!

15. Palermo (Italy)

The capital of Sicily is – no doubt – a foodie city. Food origins are a mixture of cultures combining Roman, African and Arabic influences. There is only one Michelin starred restaurant, the Bye Bye Blues , located in Mondello, an amazing beach not far from the center. But food is all around you, with lots of markets where you can taste the best street food. First of all the so-called pane ‘ca meusa (bread with spleen). And then the arancine (fried rice balls), and all the traditional Sicilian pastries, like cannoli , cassata – not forgetting their amazing gelato .

Want to explore Palermo’s culinary scene with an expert foodie guide? Join one of our Palermo food tours !

14. Girona (Spain)

Spanish cuisine, once well-known maybe only for paella, has really became the center of the new way of cooking over the past 15 years, especially under the influence of the famous chef Ferran Adrià. In the little old town of Girona, in the south of Spain, you will find El Celler de Can Roca , a family owned restaurant often described as one of the best in the world. You may think it’s a long way to go for just one restaurant, but it is well worth it to discover the innovative and award-winning menu. The 3 owners, who happen to be brothers, are responsible for the magic created in this restaurant, and their 3 Michelin stars are absolutely deserved!

13. Naples (Italy)

How can I forget to talk about the land of pizza? Pizza was invented in Naples, and it is probably the most iconic food in the world. But Naples is not only about pizza; you mustn’t pass up the seafood or the timballo di maccheroni (a sort of pasta bake), and no meal is complete without a sweet sfogliatella (a type of pastry) and perhaps the best coffee in the world. You will never complain about dinner in Naples! Lose yourself in the narrow streets in the historical center or grab a pizza (folded in four, like a napkin) and eat it walking by the sea.

Want to explore Naples culinary scene with an expert foodie guide? Join one of our Naples food tours !

12. Prague (Czech Republic)

The charm of the Prague food scene is similar to the character of the city itself: a strong respect for history and culture with a dash of innovation. Renowned butcher Naše Maso keeps meat lovers happy by reviving classic techniques, while Sisters adds a healthy twist to  chlebíčky ,   a traditional Czech party food. Just 25 years out of communist rule, the  international food scene  now spans the globe (with  a strong Vietnamese presence ), and the hipster cafe explosion is turning a country of instant coffee drinkers into cappuccino connisseurs. The Ambiente Group remain kings of the foodie scene, from the  smažený sýr  (fried cheese) and beer at Lokál’s growing number of locations to fine dining at  La Degustation , or  lunch in the Karlin neighborhood  at Eska and a nightcap at the newly opened  Bokovka . And did we mention  beer is cheaper than water ?

Want to explore Prague’s culinary scene with an expert foodie guide? Join one of our Prague food tours !

11. Venice (Italy)

Although one of the most famous cities in the world, Venice doesn’t immediately spring to mind as a foodie hotspot. This may be due to the large number of tourists invading all the narrow streets between the canals on a daily basis. You have many options, and there certainly isn’t lack of choice for places to eat, but may I make two suggestions. The first is to indulge in some of the best restaurants in town, like Quadri or Il Ridotto , both holding Michelin stars. The second is to think like a Venetian and look for one of the several bacaro spread out all around the city. The bacaro is a small place for food: the typical Venetian osteria , where you can find a good choice of wines by the glass (so called ómbre or bianchetti ) and some little snacks ( cicchetti ). It is less of a restaurant and more like a bar, and above all it is the best place to feel like a true Venetian!

Want to explore Venice’s culinary scene with an expert foodie guide? Join one of our Venice food tours !

10. Copenaghen (Denmark)

I am sure that a few years ago the capital city of Denmark was famous for its amazing statue of the Little Mermaid and its beautiful location on the sea. But now, there are several Michelin-starred restaurants, and one of them, Noma (which has a staff of 65 people for only 12 tables) is named as one of the best places in the world to eat. Two others, Restaurant A O C and Geranium , are maybe less famous but also offer a one-of-a-kind dining experience. There are a further 12 restaurants with Michelin stars in Copenhagen – an incredible concentration of culinary talent in such a small city. And despite what I said at the start about Michelin stars not being the defining factor of a foodie city, the Danish capital certainly is a true heaven for any foodie!

9. Paris (France)

How can you talk about Paris in just a few lines? It is the City of Love, no doubt, but we all know that Paris is a city of culinary excellence too. I’ll offer some suggestions, but please forgive me if I don’t have enough space to write about them all. First, imagine a very luxurious and intimate dining room: I suggest L’Ambroisie in Place des Vosges. It is a regal restaurant with an impressive menu and a historic location – words cannot describe it. But then, remember that Paris is a city in which you can find 9 restaurants with 3 Michelin stars, 13 restaurants with 2 Michelin stars, and an amazing 72 restaurants with 1 Michelin star – that’s a whopping total of 125 stars spread across 94 restaurants!

If you prefer a more casual dining experience, walk along Saint Germain and take a look at rue de Buci, one of the most vibrant streets for Parisian life and cuisine. You can find bistros, boulangeries , restaurants and cafés, and you can also enjoy wonderful seafood. Stop at world famous Les Deux Magots , a historic restaurant where you can imagine you are famous writer…

Want to explore the Paris culinary scene with an expert foodie guide? Join one of our Paris food tours !

8. Rome (Italy)

From one capital city to another, Rome is a food lover’s mecca, with an old tradition of food coming from different areas. You can find cuisine of Jewish origin, as well as all the food coming from the countryside around Rome, like cacio e pepe or amatriciana pasta. The so-called “fifth quarter” menu, which is very rich in taste and flavors, is actually the poorest part of the animal (i.e. offal like liver, heart and tail). Have a nice walk in the center of Rome or in the Trastevere neighborhood, and let yourself be captured by the typical Roman trattoria ! I have many favorite places to eat in Rome, but one particular favorite is Armando al Pantheon , which offers some of the best cucina romana in a spectacularly historical location.

Want to explore Rome’s culinary scene with an expert foodie guide? Join one of our Rome food tours or activities !

7. Lyon (France)

Back to France again and let’s go to the food capital. Lyon is an amazing gastronomic town, where you can find probably the world’s most famous chef of French cuisine, Paul Bocuse. Bocuse is almost 90, but still heads up his famous Bocuse d’Or: an amazing restaurant which is nothing short of a surreal tasting experience. A collector of Michelin stars, Bocuse led the whole city to a high standard in food, with great locations and fantastic restaurants serving the best food in the region. Definitely a particularly special destination!

6. Amsterdam (the Netherlands)

Amsterdam may be better known for its Red Light District, coffee shops and canals (not to mention world-class museums), but in the past decade its food scene has come on in leaps and bounds. Top chefs like Ron Blaauw and Rogier van Dam are making waves with their new style of Dutch cooking. While Blaauw is inspired by his travels (he has recently opened Asian restaurant Ron Gastrobar Oriental to complement his original Ron Gastrobar ), Van Dam’s menu is seasonal and closer to home at his Michelin-starred restaurant Lastage . But it’s not just the big guns that make Amsterdam’s food so special – its street food of bitterballen (breaded balls of ragout), fries (try the patat oorlog topped with mayo, peanut sauce and raw onions!) and briny herring are equally delicious!

Want to explore Amsterdam’s culinary scene with an expert foodie guide? Join one of our Amsterdam food tours !

5. Modena (Italy)

I know it may seem boring, but I cannot exclude some more Italian cities from this list. Modena is world famous for being the home of Ferrari, but it is also the home to a treasure of food. First of all, you cannot miss the Osteria Francescana , with 3 Michelin stars. Chef Massimo Bottura is considered one of the best chefs in the world (ranked number 2). But in fact the whole town is a paradise for foodies: it is the land of Parmigiano, ham, and a wide variety of salumi . And let’s not forget the best balsamic vinegar!

4. Berlin (Germany)

With 24-hour nightlife and enough history to last a lifetime, it might be easy to miss out on Berlin’s growing culinary scene, but new chefs and an increasing amount of foodie markets are making Berlin famous yet again… And while the city may claim fame for currywurst (a simple snack food), there’s actually much more appealing to Berlin’s foodie reputation. On the luxury end of the spectrum, there’s the 2 Michelin-starred Hotel Adlon Kempinski . On the more casual side, places like the Martkhalle IX run regular food markets, including a popular Thursday-evening street food market and weekend breakfast and dessert markets. The summertime Thai food park (where vendors set up illegal street food stalls selling the most authentic Thai food outside of Thailand) and a splattering of other international cuisines (from Russian and Vietnamese food to American burgers and brunches) reflect Berlin’s status as an international hub of diversity.

Want to explore Berlin’s culinary scene with an expert foodie guide? Join one of our Berlin food tours !

3. Florence (Italy)

I know Florence quite well, because my twin sister lives there and I visit often. Food-wise, Florence is famous for the bistecca alla fiorentina , (a steak weighing about 1.2kg) which is the symbol of the town. But I prefer to talk about the street food: the lampredotto sandwich made by the so-called trippai . Lampredotto is one of the four parts of a cow’s stomach. It is a poor food, but very tasty and delicious served with salsa verde . The most famous trippaio is in the Loggia del Porcellino , just in the center of Florence.

Want to explore Florence’s culinary scene with an expert foodie guide? Join one of our Florence food tours !

2. London (UK)

Could London be considered as one of the food capitals of Europe? Give that the population is 12 million, including dozens of nationalities, your chances of finding good food are pretty high. Plus, with the likes of Jamie Oliver, Nigella Lawson and Nigel Slater inspiring all generations to improve their cooking skills, the public are demanding better and better quality. Gone are the bad old days we all associated with British cuisine through the years of war-time rations through to the 80s – from the 90s onwards, London has seen a veritable foodie revolution. The English capital boasts about 65 Michelin-starred restaurants, with top chefs like Clare Smyth (trained by Gordon Ramsay) and Jason Atherton at the helm. While Smyth plans to open her own new venture in late 2016, Atherton has just launched izakaya-style restaurant Sosharu. So, forget that old idea of bad English food: look around and you will find everything from fine dining, to great pub meals, to a never-ending array of international street food.

Want to explore London’s culinary scene with an expert foodie guide? Join one of our London food tours !

1. San Sebastian (Spain)

While it may be known as Donastia by its local Basque residents, it’s more commonly known as San Sebastian. Or, as we like to call it, the Foodie Capital of Europe. Boasting more Michelin stars per square meter than almost anywhere else in the world (beaten only by Kyoto in Japan), San Sebastian is an absolute paradise for food lovers. At the top end of the spectrum, there’s Mugaritz – currently at #6 on the list of the World’s 50 Best Restaurants and known for its highly experimental molecular gastronomy – and the less well known but no less fantastic Akelarre . Not to mention Arzak and the eponymous Martín Berasategui . And because of their sheer number, it’s actually possible to reserve a table at one of these Michelin-starred establishments within just a few weeks of your visit. However, for those wanting a more casual (and cheaper!) dining experience, look no further than one of the city’s many charming pintxos bars. The Basque country’s answer to tapas, pintxos specialties local to San Sebastian include slow-cooked veal cheeks, pimientos di padron (fried long green peppers) and bacalao (salt cod). Each bar has its own specialty, so be sure to check what the locals are eating and then join them!

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Eat Like a Local through Amsterdam's Jordaan neighbourhood.

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About Kenny Dunn

Kenny’s love for European cuisine was sparked after moving to Rome in 2009. He fell in love with the city’s backstreet eateries, and even more with the people and stories behind each dish. Now he's turned his passion into food tours, so  Eating Europe  guests can also share a taste of local life.

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hungryoungwoman

19 Best Food Cities in Europe for Every Food Lover

Last Updated on January 25, 2020 by hungryoungwoman

I love to explore and write about food. I think it is something that’s just within me. To such heights, that I also sometimes plan my travels based on the food I am going to try there. I’m sure most of you must have been to some part of Europe, but have you wondered which are the best food cities in Europe?

I got in touch with a few of my favorite bloggers that have experienced some of the best food in Europe and were nice enough to share their recommendations with me. These cities are listed in no particular order as I feel they just cannot compete with each other. So, let’s get down to making a special European Food List, shall we?

Also read: Where and What to Eat in Singapore

19 best food cities in europe .

• Gdansk, Poland – Holly from Four Around The World

2. Budapest, Hungary – Ruth from Tanama Tales

As an avid traveler, I did a lot of research before visiting Budapest.  Most articles recommended getting deep into the food scene of one of the best Eastern European cities. So, we did exactly that!

We ended up experiencing rich, spicy and mouth-watering dishes.  We are eager to return and try even more food!

If you visit, I recommend trying the following dishes: goulash (a soup or stew of meat and vegetable, seasoned with paprika and other spices), chicken paprikash (chicken served with a sauce of sweet paprika and cream), stuffed cabbage (ground meat, rice, and spices are used for the filling), langos (deep-fried flatbread topped with sour cream and cheese or rubbed with garlic or garlic butter, sweet versions exist too), kolbice (sausages in a whole-wheat bread cone), grilled duck, gundel palacsinta (crepe filled with ground walnuts, raisin, candied orange peel, and cinnamon, served flambéed in dark chocolate sauce) and kürtőskalács (chimney cake).

You can find Hungarian specialties at several restaurants in the central Pest area, street food markets (there are several in the Jewish District) or the Great Market Hall.  For pastries and cakes, visit Café Gerbeaud, Café New York or Ruszwurm. See more here.

3. Sunderland, United Kingdom – Stuart from Go Eat Do

Sunderland is in the north-east of England, one of the United Kingdom’s emerging foodie regions. Long dismissed as part of the country that consumed stodge rather than gourmet produce, things are changing.

Twice a year, in springtime and autumn, Sunderland holds a restaurant that enables people to dine out for set prices in participating restaurants. That is helping to encourage locals to explore the university city’s restaurants and cafes. The Glass Yard, in the National Glass Centre, is an option if you enjoy well-presented dishes and riverside views.

Paul Clarke, of the George H Pickings Jr’s butcher’s shop, in the village of Boldon, has won several awards for his innovative sausages. Grill them and put them in a stottie cake, a type of flatbread that is a regional delicacy, and you have a delicious but simple meal that can be enjoyed at any time of day.

Overlooking the North Sea, Latimer’s Seafood Deli and Café is a good option for picking up freshly landed seafood for cooking at home or trying dishes prepared on the premises.

There’s a positive vibe in the city and plenty of tasty dishes for people to tuck into while in Sunderland. See more here.

4. Bologna, Italy – Michael from The World Was Here First

The northern Italian city of Bologna is undoubtedly one of the best food cities in Europe. In fact, for centuries, Bologna has developed the nickname of “La Grassa”, literally translating to “The Fat” which should give all travelers a hint about the fantastic food scene that exists here!

While many travelers to Italy make the mistake of only  visiting Bologna for a day,  typically as a stop from Florence to Venice, this city is definitely worth a longer stay for food lovers.

Bologna has an amazing restaurant scene where visitors can try traditional Bolognese food such as tagliatelle al ragu (flat pasta with a meat sauce that is widely seen as the inspiration for spaghetti bolognese), lasagne verdi (green lasagne made with spinach pasta) and mortadella (cured salume). You can try all these dishes at  Va Mo La  which is a cozy restaurant that also doubles as a library!

5. Lille, France – Jo from Over The Edge Of The Wild

Closer to Brussels than to Paris, the city of Lille is often overlooked by tourists who pass through the north of France, visiting Normandy, Calais, and Dunkirk before heading through to the Belgian capital. Those who hurry on in search of chocolate and waffles do their taste buds a disservice by failing to bid farewell to French fare, however, a stop in Lille would serve both purposes. With dozens of cafes and restaurants settled among the beautiful architecture of the Old Town, there is something to suit all tastes, but it’s really the juxtaposition of French favorites and Belgian specialties that make the city special.

Walking around, you’ll find vendors of crepes, smoutebollen (Flemish donuts), and waffles facing out onto the street fronts, and all of these can be acquired covered in delicious local chocolate. Of late, when it comes to le chocolat, there are various chocolatiers around the city including Maison Benoit, Au Chat Bleu, and Guillame Vincent, which are in stiff competition for the best variety and quality of cocoa delicacies on offer. You’d better visit them all to decide for yourself. See more here.

6. Rome, Italy – Allison from Eternal Arrival

If you’re a foodie and you don’t have Rome on your itinerary — move it right up on your eating bucket list! Italian food is one of the best cuisines in the world and Roman cuisine, in particular, is quite delicious.

The pasta in Rome is a popular food in Europe, rich and delicious with simple ingredients that nonetheless taste fantastic. My favorite Roman pasta is spaghetti alla carbonara, which is made with raw egg, pecorino cheese, pepper, and guanciale, a kind of cured ham used in many Roman kinds of pasta — and never cream, unlike carbonara pasta in the rest of the world.

Other delicious traditional Roman pasta includes pasta alla amatriciana and cacio e pepe. While Rome is famous for its pasta, its pizza should not be overlooked. After all, Rome is only a few hours away from the birthplace of pizza, Naples. The simpler the pizza, the better: my favorite is made with prosciutto and fresh arugula on top. Finally, don’t miss tasting Rome’s unique Jewish-Italian cuisine, especially the Jewish fried artichokes when they are in season!

7. Malaga, Spain – Sarah from A Social Nomad

The food scene in Malaga is simply awesome, made even better by the fact that it’s primarily focused around the traditional concepts of food in the region. It’s not an expensive city to be a foodie in as decent portions of tapas can be had for 2-3 euros (and they’re enough to share) and there are enough regional specialties to have you eating something different for your entire trip.

The start of any good food city has got to be the market – and Malaga doesn’t disappoint. Free samples of olives, hams, garlic, fruits, and the local almonds will have you hungry for more. You will, of course, have breakfasted on good coffee at Café Central with specialties like the pitufo (it translates as Smurf, but for the vegetarians amongst us is a fresh small baguette with butter and tomato).

You could head to the Malaguena beach and try sardines, (in season only) grilled on an open fire. Or you could graze all day in Tapas bar after Tapas bar – there are hundreds to try. One dish you should try is the traditional white seafood soup of Gapachuelo – you’ll find a great option tucked away behind the Cathedral at Mesón Rincón Catedral. See more here.

8.  Barcelona, Spain – Jess from The Longest Bus Ride

Barcelona is located on the Mediterranean Sea and is a city where any foodie can keep their belly absolutely stuffed for weeks on end. Patatas bravas is a popular homey dish. Seafood is fresh out of the sea and Catalan dishes invariably include tomato in one form or another.

The simplest dish is tomato bread which is simply a mash of fresh tomato and olive oil smeared onto bread as one might smear butter. Each restaurant has their own recipe and it is refreshing after a long day of walking around the city admiring Gaudi’s architecture.

After a tour of the Barcelona fisherman’s pier and auction, my guide offers advice on seafood restaurants in the city. I loved the small cash-only place packed full of people in the Barceloneta neighborhood. And, should you get tired of the hubbub of the city, just catch a quick train ride up north to Girona. It has a fantastic Old Quarter and is filled with wonderful restaurants in all price ranges including many Michelin starred places. See more here.

Want a Cheat Sheet? Download your FREE Best Food Cities in Europe Checklist! 

9. Paris, France – Katy from Untold Morsels

Brussels might not immediately come across as a foodie city as some other European cities – say Paris – would. But once you travel to this charming city, you will realize Brussels is one of the most underrated gastronomic destinations in Europe. 

Belgians have created a unique culinary culture influenced by adjunct France, Germany, and the Netherlands. The results are mouth-watering delicacies, including moules frites (a.k.a. Belgian national dish), waffles, chocolates, and fries to name a few.

Take fries for example. The thick, crispy slices of freshly fried potato chips are one of the most popular side dishes in the world. Despite its name, French fries are originally from Belgium. Belgians consider these fries a soul mate of mussels ; while eating by itself,    they prefer to match with mayonnaise or other varieties of sauce rather than ketchup.

If you want to visit a charming, artistic, cultural city that can also satisfy your palate, Brussels should be your next destination. Read more about 7 Things to Eat in Brussels here:  https:// chloestravelogue.com/7-things- to-eat-brussels/

16. Galway, Ireland – Erin from Epicurean Traveler Blog

When you think of Irish cuisine, fish and chips, seafood chowder, and hearty beef and potato stews might come to mind. However, there is much more to the culinary scene in Galway, Ireland.

Certainly, the city’s coastal location makes it an ideal destination for visitors hoping to taste fresh seafood. Diners will easily find oysters on the half shell, Atlantic salmon, monkfish, prawns, and mussels at local restaurants.

One of the best places for seafood is Oscar’s Seafood Bistro on Galway City’s west side. There the seafood is sourced from local fisherman and fishmongers. But, if it’s a classic fish and chips you are craving, head to Quay Street for McDonagh’s. Serving fish and chips for four generations, at McDonagh’s your fish is cooked to order and fresh chips are made from potatoes peeled that morning.

The high quality of food in Galway is also seen at McCambridge’s. The family-owned food hall stocks local, artisanal foods. In the upstairs restaurant, that commitment to fresh, local, and high-quality food shines through dishes like the delicious open-faced, goat-cheese sandwich I paired with the special soup of the day.

Whether browsing local markets or dining at high-end restaurants, travelers will find Galway, Ireland, is a foodie’s destination. See more here.

17. Vienna, Austria – Gizelle from Vienna: 101 Facets

Vienna is a teeming hotpot of many cultures and food fusion. There are a lot of markets where the diversity of the food culture can be seen, felt, and tasted. There’s a variety of cuisines offered around the 23 districts of Vienna. French, Italian, Spanish, Korean, Japanese, Chinese, Turkish, Greek, and a lot more yummy cuisines are represented.

Yet, Viennese cuisine is still the most popular. In Vienna, Heurigers/Taverns (Gasthäuser) are known to own their own vineyards and serve homemade Austrian dishes. The usual dish served among taverns is the Tafelspitz. It’s a simple dish of the tip (of meat), more particularly boiled veal or beef in a broth of root vegetables and spices. It is usually served with a mix of minced apples and horseradish, also with sour cream and chives. The meat is usually very tender, that it comes off when you pinch it with a fork. Plachutta, a famous local restaurant was named to have been serving the best Tafelspitz in the city.

There aren’t many signature dishes originally from Lisbon, this is because of the majority of people from Lisbon, if not all of them, come from the countryside. There are some dishes the city has adopted like ‘bacalhau á Bras’ (cod with egg and fried potatoes) or the famous ‘pastéis de nata’ (custard tart). You can find them almost everywhere. There are hundreds of small traditional restaurants all over the city that serve bacalhau á Bras you won’t have to look too hard. For pastriés the nata Manteigaria or the famous Fábrica dos Pastéis de Belem .

With the Atlantic Ocean on its doorstep, Portugal is a great place to eat seafood.  In Lisbon, Cervejaria Ramiro is famous for its shellfish, simple and fresh. During the summer months, sardines are a big thing and you will find them on the menu in most restaurants.

If you are visiting for the first time, I’d recommend a trip to the Time Out Market . A food court where you’ll find you loads of options from traditional Portuguese to gourmet burgers, sushi, seafood, pizzas and Asian. It’s a great way to sample some of Lisbon’s best restaurants all under one roof. See more here.

19. Slavonia, Croatia – Sarah-Jane From Chasing The Donkey

People have inhabited the fertile floodplains of Slavonia for thousands of years, and they have their own regional farm animals, and a killer baked goods offering.

The must-try food item to enjoy in Slavonia is Orahnjača. The uber-popular dessert is a walnut roulade, served as a treat for special occasions . With a filling of walnuts, homemade jam, and cinnamon, it’s both a savory and sweet dish perfect for filling up that last little space in your stomach after dinner. See more here. 

That was most of our list, so should we say it’s safe to call Europe the food capital of the world? I’ll let you decide that.

Interested in learning more about Europe? Check our packing list to Europe for all seasons or the best destinations to visit Europe in February. These will help planning for your Europe trip!

Until then, happy eating! xx

P.S. If you want to save and read later, here’s a pinnable version! 🙂

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8 thoughts on “ 19 Best Food Cities in Europe for Every Food Lover ”

Wow so many interesting types of food here. Thanks for the creative post!

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We just moved to Europe and I basically only travel for the food lol I’m definitely adding a few of these places to my list!! Thank you for putting this together!

Haha thanks so much! Where are you based there?

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37 Best (& Worst) Countries for Vegetarian & Vegan Travelers in 2022

Methodology

We looked at 39 countries with available data and created our Vegan Travel Index based on a total of seven ranking factors. We utilized a mixed methods research design to create the index. The highest possible score was 400 points and the lowest possible score was -200 points.

Positive Ranking Factors

• Vegetable, fruit, and legume supply quantity in kilograms per capita per year (each 0 to 100 Points)  — These were our highest-weighted metrics to determine veg-friendly travel. Knowing what the locals are eating and what percentage of their diet is plant, fruit, and legume-based gives a good indication of what kind of options will be available for travelers. Additionally, this source had the most reliable and consistent data reported globally by the United Nations.

Source:  UN Food and Agriculture Organization

• Percentage of the population that is vegetarian or vegan (0 to 50 Points) — We gave this metric less weight than you’d (likely) expect because our sources for this were a little inconsistent and some cases less-than-reliable. Some countries over-report, under-report, or simply unreliably report how many citizens are actually vegetarian. Two example countries that did have reliable data sources were India  and the  United States .

Source:  Vegetarianism By Country – Wikipedia

• Number of vegan and vegetarian restaurants per 1 million annual tourists (0 to 50 Points) — We utilized the HappyCow.net website, an awesome resource with over 152,000 vegan and vegetarian restaurant listings worldwide. However, since the database is largely user-generated and mostly in English, we brought the number of HappyCow restaurants in each country to be in terms of frequency of 1 million tourists to get a more stable and reliable metric.

Source:  HappyCow.net World Database

Negative Ranking Factors

• Meat and fish/seafood supply quantity in kilograms per capita per year (each 0 to -100 Points) — The quantity of meat, fish, and seafood supply were the only factors that received a full negative weight in our index. Some countries such as India had an incredibly low level of meat supply (4.11 kg/capita/year) whereas other countries like United States, Argentina, and Australia all had over 100 kg/capita/year. Again this source was from the United Nations database.

Study Limitations:  Due to budget constraints, the methodology used in our index does not sample the actual experiences of veg. tourists who have visited each country. Moreover, finding reliable data on veganism and vegetarianism around the world can be difficult, in part because all vegetarians and vegans  are not the same . Additionally, some travelers may find one particular  city to be very veg-friendly, but the country as a whole has generally terrible options, and vice-versa. We took a very individualized question (“what are the best and worst countries for vegetarian/vegan travelers?”) and attempted to quantify it on a larger scale, which will always have its limitations.

5 Best Countries for Vegans and Vegetarian Travelers in the World

Based on our findings, these are the five countries that are the most hospitable to vegan and vegetarian travelers along with their total scores in our study:

1. India (228 Points)

With an incredibly high rate of vegetarianism, low meat supply per person, and high supply of legumes, India is our top country for vegetarian travelers. What percentage of Indians are vegetarian? The answer, according to their Census Bureau, is an incredible 29%, giving them the highest percentage of vegetarians in the world. Many of India’s  most famous dishes  are vegetarian. Note: The Indian vegetarian diet is dairy-heavy and so finding vegan-friendly food can require some effort.

2. Mexico (135 Points):

There are not many strictly vegan or vegetarian restaurants in Mexico compared to their level of tourism, their high levels of fruit and legume consumption and the  versatility  of the country’s cuisine make it a great place for vegans and vegetarians to visit.

3. Brazil (133 Points):

While Brazilians do have a high rate of meat consumption and a comparatively low rate of vegetable consumption, they surprisingly have a  very high number of vegan- and vegetarian-friendly restaurants  per every 1 million tourists each year (849 restaurants for their 6.6 million annual tourists), making it one of the most vegetarian-friendly countries in the world.

4. Vietnam (123 Points):

Vietnam has a high vegetable and legume supply per resident as well as a moderately low meat supply. Vietnam also has a large Buddhist population, many of whom are lacto-vegetarian, making it a great destination for vegetarian travelers who want to  enjoy the local cuisine .

5. Israel (105 Points):

Israel may surprise some as a vegetarian and vegan hotspot, but many say that Israel’s 13% vegetarian population has roots in the Jewish religion and interpretation of kosher practice . This means that there are many cruelty-free options for vegetarians and vegan travelers in Israel, and a great number of traditional Israeli dishes are meat-free.

The Worst Countries for Vegans and Vegetarian Travelers

The following five countries had the lowest vegan- and vegetarian-friendliness scores out of the 39 countries we analyzed:

1. Latvia (-11 Points):

Latvia has long been known as a  meat-loving country , so it’s no surprise that it ranks at the bottom of our list. Just 3% of Latvians are vegetarians, and there are very few vegetarian-friendly restaurants.

2. Denmark (-5 Points):

Similar to Latvia, Denmark has a small percentage of vegetarians (3%).  Traditional Danish cuisine  contains a lot of meat and fish, making it difficult for vegans and vegetarians to find alternatives.

3. Lithuania (0 Points):

Lithuanian cuisine is known for its  meat dishes , and the nation has the third-lowest fruit supply quantity per person on our list. There are also only 101 vegan-friendly restaurants in the country for its 6.1 million annual visitors.

4. France (3) Points:

When travelers think of French food, they generally think of  rich meat and seafood dishes . The country also has a relatively small number of vegetarians (5.2% of the population) and few vegan-friendly restaurants.

5. Norway (6 Points):

Norwegians consume a lot of fish and seafood as well as red meat, along with a comparatively low amount of vegetables. Only 3% of Norwegians identify as vegetarian. It’s no wonder that Norway’s official dish, fårikål , is a mutton stew.

Types of Vegetarianism

There are many variations among those who call themselves “vegetarian” or “vegan”. Some people refrain from consuming or using animal products, while others may eat dairy or even fish or meat on occasion. These are the most common types of meat-free or meat-restricted diets:

• Vegan:  Vegans do not consume any animal products or by-products, including meat, poultry, fish, dairy, eggs, honey, or gelatin. Many vegans also refrain from using or wearing animal by-products like leather, wool, silk, or beeswax.
• Raw vegans:  This branch of veganism only eats uncooked foods that have no animal products or by-products. Some raw vegans will cook their food at low temperatures (usually under 104-115°F or 40-46°C).
• Fruitarian:  Unsurprisingly, fruitarians are a variation of vegans, but who predominately eat fruit, and some also eat seeds, nuts, and legumes etc. Certain practitioners of this diet will only eat fruit that has fallen from the plant so as to not harm any living creature.
• Lacto-Vegetarian:  These vegetarians do not eat any type of meat, fish, poultry, or eggs but generally consume dairy products like milk and cheese.
• Ovo-Vegetarian:  Individuals who identify as ovo-vegetarian do not consume meat, fish, poultry, or dairy, but they do eat eggs and products containing eggs.
• Lacto-Ovo-Vegetarian:  This is the most common type of vegetarian. These individuals do not consume meat, fish, or poultry but do eat eggs and dairy products.

A few other diets that aren’t truly vegetarians or vegans but are generally more plant-based diets:

• Flexitarian:  Flexitarians are those who primarily follow a vegetarian diet but occasionally eat meat.
• Pescatarian:  Pescatarians limit their meat consumption to fish and shellfish.
• Pollotarian:  Pollotarians consume periodic poultry, but no seafood or red meat.
• Pegan:  Peganism is a hybrid of veganism and paleo that focuses on the “hunter-gatherer” diet including fruit, nuts and seeds, vegetables, and occasional meat. The premise is to eat things that are wild caught like our ancestors did before farming was available but with a higher emphasis on the vegetarian diet rather than a more paleo meat heavy diet.
• Other variations:  There are plenty of dietary variations among these, including gluten-free, dairy-free, kosher, paleo, and ketogenic, etc.

How many vegetarians are in the world?

A recent study estimated that 11% of global consumers are vegetarian, 3% are vegan, and 20% are flexitarian . India is one of the best-known vegetarian cultures with the official count being 29% of the population being strictly vegetarian. The practice of vegetarianism has been present in the country since ancient times, making travel in India great for those who do not consume meat.

While some people become vegans or vegetarians because they dislike the taste of meat, its negative health effects or they oppose the ways animals are treated, an increasing number are cutting out meat and dairy for environmental reasons. Replacing or reducing meat intake with vegetarian protein sources like lentils, beans, and nuts can help reduce our carbon footprint and greenhouse gas emissions. According to the Vegetarian Society , eating vegetarian for one year saves the same amount of emissions as taking a family car off the road for six months.

Whatever one’s reasons for becoming vegan or vegetarian may be, there are many countries around the world where travelers can find unparalled delicious meat-free food.

17 tips for traveling vegans & vegetarians

1. at restaurants, try ordering regular menu items without the meat.

Many restaurants globally may not have the vegetarian selection you’re hoping for. However, often restaurants are willing to make their regular menu items sans meat. Some readily availabe meal options for requesting meat to be excluded include:

• Pasta dishes, like spaghetti and fettuccini
• Pizza (choose your own topings)
• Tacos (with cheese and beans instead of any meat)
• Rice and veggies

2. Consider bringing the essentials from home (and supplement with local vegetables and fruits)

This one is especially relevant for vegans whose diets can be quite a bit more restricted. Bring foods you’ll absolutely need, like favorite nut butter, snacks, supplements, and even vegan/vegetarian protein powder. Most places will have a selection of seasonal and regional vegetables and fruits but may lack vegan and vegetarian-friendly protein.

3. Google “health food stores” around where you’re staying

You might be surprised at what kind of options are actually available when you do a little digging. But even if you don’t find dedicated health food stores, regular stores should have a decent selection of vegan/veg options.

4. Websites like TripAdvisor and Yelp allow you to filter restaurants in your area by “vegetarian”

Doing some research ahead of time will ensure you and your travel companions know where to find the best veg-friendly restaurants at your destination. These days there are typically countless options in most major cities around the world.

5. Book accommodations that will allow you to cook

Having a full kitchen, kitchenette, and a fridge at your disposal will be a game-changer, particularly in countries with very limited meat-free options.

6. Bring Stasher bags and other eco-friendly food containers

These will allow you to bring nuts, dried fruits, and other snacks if you happen to be in an area where the majority of restaurants lack veggie options

7. Plan to spend a bit more

The majority of places around the world will have vegan and vegetarian options, but the more sophisticated and accommodating restaurants may come at a premium cost. Pad your budget with a bit of extra cash to make sure you can afford the foods that fit your dietary needs, even if they’re a bit more expensive. For example, our experience in Paris is that pretty much any upscale restaurant should be able to prepare you the most incredible veg-friendly meal you’ve ever had if you ask nicely.

8. Consider staying in a vegetarian hotel or a vegan hotel

A simple Google search of your destination should give you an idea if such hotels are available. You’d be surprised how many incredible locations around the world have these popular hotels.

9. Use technology to your advantage

Technology has made traveling as a non-meat eater easier than ever. There are apps that tell you how to communicate your veganism in  over 100 languages , apps that tell you what  vegetables and fruits are in season in your region , and even apps that let you find veg restaurants and products around the globe.

10. Do some searching online for national cuisine that typically doesn’t include meat

Knowing which of the famous cultural dishes can be made without meat ahead of time means you can still enjoy the local cuisine without worrying so much about the ingredients. Of course, you’ll still need to double-check with the wait staff before ordering anything.

11. The appetizer menu is a vegetarian’s best friend

Many of us have known this for a long time, but when in doubt study the appetizers as they are often more likely to be vegan/vegetarian if a restaurant has slim pickings. Instead of getting a main course, get several good-looking appetizers.

12. Use social media to your advantage

Often vegans and vegetarians will share restaurants and stores that carry veg options. Search on Instagram, Twitter or TikTok for #vegan and then whatever city or country you’re visiting. Variations can include hashtags like:

• #vegan(city name)
• #(city name)vegan
• #vegetarian(city name)

13. Find regional vegan travel guides

Go online and search “(destination) vegan guide” and you’ll likely find a few veg sources of inspiration for your travels. Plus, many guides will have the language to help you avoid certain ingredients and animal products.

14. Don’t forget to pack other cruelty-free vegan products

If using personal hygiene cosmetics, skincare, haircare and general products is important to you, be sure to bring them. Many countries will have a limited selection, if they carry them at all. It’s, therefore, better to bring what you need for your full trip than risk running out halfway through. Obviously being wise with baggage weight is also an important consideration and not bringing too many liquids in your carry-on bags as they won’t pass security in most countries.

15. Research the language ahead of time

Know how to communicate your dietary needs before you go so you’re not scrambling at the last minute. Being able to say “I don’t eat meat, fish, or poultry, do you have meat-free options that are vegetarian?” in the language of your destination will go a very long way. Also think about having it written down in the local language on a printout or saved on your phone can be very helpful!

16. Research vegetarian communities in your destination

Often you’ll find vegan and vegetarian communities on Facebook, Reddit, MeetUp, or other social platforms. Connecting with other vegetarians in your destination is a great way to find local restaurants or tips for eating animal-free in your travels.

17. Double check with the server that there are no meat or animal products in your food

We’ve all probably been in that situation where you ask if something has meat and are told “no”… but it has fish. You can always confirm politely with the waitstaff to ensure that there are no meat or animal products in your food before consuming. It’s better to be safe and double check!

http://www.fao.org/faostat/en/#data/FBS https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vegetarianism_by_country (fact-checked by our team) https://www.happycow.net/browse

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20 of The Best Muslim Countries to Visit for a Halal Holiday 2024

There are so many amazing Muslim holiday destinations you can visit around the world.  As the world becomes easily accessible with low-cost airlines it also becomes so much easier to reach amazing holiday options for Muslim families. 

The halal travel industry is booming again according to the Global Muslim Travel Index there were over 140 million Muslim travelers exploring the world in 2023, which is an increase from the 114 million in 2019. The halal travel industry is predicted to be worth over 300billion by 2030. 

Some of the most popular and halal-friendly travel destinations without a doubt are located in Asia with the winners being Malaysia and Indonesia for good reasons as we will see below. 

This piece highlights some of the best halal holiday destinations that provide Muslim-friendly amenities and experiences. From unique architecture to renowned cuisine, discover the charm and warmth of Muslim nations around the globe that are sure to leave you with an unforgettable travel experience. 

In this Article Why Choose a Muslim Country as a holiday destination What is a Muslim holiday destination? Spotlight on the Best Muslim Countries to Visit Important Aspects to Remember When Visiting Muslim Countries Questions about Muslim countries and destinations

Why Choose a Muslim Country as a holiday destination

Without a doubt, Muslim countries have such a rich beautiful history with many having great Unesco heritage sites that you can explore. Learning more about how Muslims over the centuries benefited not only from Islamic knowledge but also from the rich culture and traditions is very inspiring, especially for those Muslims living in the West. 

I always feel more empowered and happy to return from a Muslim country where I had the opportunity to learn something about the previous generations. We have so many beautiful Muslim countries that we can visit and not only do we meet the local community and support local businesses but also enjoy the hospitality of those nations. 

I have so many examples over the years of Muslims coming to my rescue or helping me find a taxi outside the mosque. 

What is a Muslim holiday destination?

I generally like to break my terminology when it comes to halal holiday destinations because sometimes terms can be used interchangeably for marketing purposes but also to mean different things to people. 

One of the most popular Google searches is about Muslim holiday destinations because we all know as muslims we prefer the safety of an Islamic country where we can feel comfortable. 

I have an in-depth article where I mention the difference between halal travel and Muslim-friendly travel. This article falls under the “halal travel category as it concentrates on Muslim countries in the world. 

As a halal holiday destination, the country offers easy halal food. Since the list is of Muslim countries around the world this is not difficult to find.

Prayer facilities will also not be a problem as there is a plethora of mosques in those destinations for Muslim travellers. I also know that for many Muslim travelers segregation especially on beach holidays is very important as well as the alcohol-free environment whether in hotels, resorts or restaurants. 

Plus especially for niqabi sisters and those wearing jilbabs it is very important to feel safe on their halal holiday without the fear of discrimination or Islamophobia. 

Another reason to visit a Muslim country is that it provides a one-stop solution for those looking for both leisure and excitement in a calming setting. 

On the other side, a Muslim Friendly Destination for me personally is a travel destination that is welcoming to Muslims and has facilities but it is not majority Muslim in terms of population. 

Spotlight on the Best Muslim Countries to Visit

Every destination below offers plenty of halal food options, a Muslim community, beautiful mosques you can pray and plenty of activities you can experience. Certain countries on the list are more halal orientated than others for example Lebanon compared to Brunei, however, all destinations are safe to visit and offer a unique experience.

1 Saudi Arabia

Our website covers a lot of Umrah travel for Saudi Arabia which is what Muslims predominantly visit the country for. However, over the recent years, Saudi tourism has gone leaps and bounds in attracting tourists to the country. 

The country offers so much more than just Makkah and Medinah however and as an expat of Saudi, I really want more people to visit other places. Also, the tourism board has a great website with places you can visit. 

There are several Unesco heritage sites and even the largest oasis in the world is located in Saudi Arabia. With so many cheap flights now to the Kingdom it would be a shame for tourists and pilgrims not to visit other parts of the country. 

• The best places to visit in Saudi Arabia 

Malaysia provides a great mix of diverse cultures and scenic beauty. It is known for its diverse Muslim population as over 60% are Muslims and it has so much to offer travellers. The country ranks top 3 of the popular destinations for halal tourism. 

There is so much beauty but also it is one of the best budget-friendly halal travel options. You can have an amazing experience without breaking the bank. Visitors can explore iconic landmarks in Kuala Lumpur, relax on stunning beaches in Langkawi, and discover the historical treasures of Malacca.

My favourite place in Kuala Lumpur was definitely the Islamic Art Museum where you get to spend hours learning about the Islamic history of the country. 

Turkey doesn’t really need an introduction but it is also a very popular destination with Muslim travellers looking for Halal resorts. The Turkish coast offers so many options to not only relax on the beach in your burkini but also to explore sites that date back thousands of years. 

Turkey is a mesmerizing blend of East and West, boasting a rich Islamic heritage with Unesco sites and stunning natural beauty. The country is also one of the most popular options for European Muslims and their family. 

Things not to miss in Istanbul are places like the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, The Grand Bazaar and Topkapı Palace. If you are exploring the south Cappadocia, Antalya, and Pakumkkale are amazing options plus don’t forget to indulge in a traditional Turkish bath experience.

• Your Muslim Friendly Guide to Istanbul 
• Halal Beach Resorts in Turkey 
• Muslim Friendly resorts in Europe 

4 UAE (United Arab Emirates)

No doubt Dubai also comes to mind when we talk about Muslim holidays since it is visited by millions and there is so much to do. However, the UAE offers so much more than Dubai with muslim families able to enjoy their holiday with more modesty and alcohol-free options. Cities like Sharjah, Abu Dhabi and Ras Al Khaimah offer visitors more low-key options for those who want to escape the glitz or have been to the city several times. 

No matter where you decide to explore the country offers one of the best vacation spots for Muslims due to the vast options it offers. From shopping to Islamic history and relaxing on the beach.

When there don’t miss Sheikh Zayed Mosque in Abu Dhabi, a safari tour, bur Dubai, a visit to Burj Khalifa or the dancing fountains. 

• Muslim Friendly Guide to Dubai and Money-Saving tips 
• Doubletree Hotel Review Ras Al Khaimah 
• Waldorf Astoria Palm Jumeirah

5 Indonesia

Indonesia offers a captivating mix of natural wonders and rich Islamic culture. With the largest Muslim population in the world, it boasts beautiful mosques, such as the Istiqlal Mosque in Jakarta. Bali which is a very popular destination in the country has a large Muslim community and natural beauty that millions visit every year. However, the small island of Lombok which is only a short distance away and known as the island with the thousands of mosques has a very large Muslim community. 

If you have already been to the country why not explore something different next time. 

• Muslim Guide to Bali 
• Muslim Friendly Villas in Lombok 
• 5 Things to do in Jakarta
• Muslim Friendly Villas in Bali 

 6 Qatar

Another country that doesn’t need an introduction and also holds a special place in my heart. I lived in Doha for 4 years and my daughter was born there so the connection is there every time I look at her passport. Qatar for me is one of the most traditional and beautiful halal holiday options for travelers. 

It offers a unique mix of traditional and modern aspects with an opulence that is not evident in neighbouring countries. After the World Cup, there are so many things for the family to explore and also there are luxury halal hotel options you can enjoy. 

Doha, its capital city, showcases architectural marvels like the Museum of Islamic Art and the Katara Cultural Village. Visitors can enjoy traditional Qatari cuisine, explore the bustling Souq Waqif, or venture out into the stunning desert landscapes.

Fun fact, I used to be part of an exhibit in the Qatar National Museum for several months when it opened. An amazing experience! 

• Halal Hotel in Qatar – Tivoli Review 
• Your Guide to Doha from an expat
• 5 Things to do on a Qatar Airways in Doha 

7 Egypt 

Egypt is a land of ancient wonders and significant Islamic heritage. From the the bustling capital of Cairo showcasing its beautiful Islamic heritage to the beautiful beaches along the Red Sea, Egypt is a popular destination for millions of Muslims. 

When in the country don’t miss the very affordable beach resorts in the country, the pyramids, the Islamic Museum of Cairo or visiting the Valley of the Kings. 

Why spend your honeymoon in Egypt

The Best Muslim-Friendly Destinations to Visit

Morocco was the first country I visited 15 years ago outside of Europe and the first Muslim one. The beautiful history and stunning views from the sea to desert make this a stunning destination for Muslim travelers. Not only do you have the option to explore the bustling souqs of Marakesh but also stay in beautiful Riad included in Unesco’s World Heritage sites.  

We explored so many places and I would love to go back and explore some more . The budget airlines flying from Europe to Morocco make it a very cheap Muslim country to visit.

Visit the medieval streets of Fez or the blue-washed walls of Chefchaouen or trek through the Sahara desert to Ouarzazate. 

Jordan is a country packed with historical, natural and archaeological treasures. Very few places in the world can be considered open-air museums of all kinds. 

The ancient city of Petra, with its fascinating rock-cut architecture, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a must-visit destination The city, often referred to as the “Rose City” due to the colour of the stones from which it is carved, was established as early as 312 BC as the capital city of the Nabateans.

Alongside Petra, Jordan has many other historical and archaeological sites such as the Roman city of Jerash, the Crusader castle at Karak, and the Ma’in hot springs.

The kingdom also boasts another World Heritage site, Wadi Rum, sometimes known as the Valley of the Moon. Equally impressive is the famous Dead Sea, the lowest point on earth, known for its healing properties. Furthermore, Jordan is also home to Mt. Nebo, a historic site believed to be the place where the biblical figure, Moses, viewed the Promised Land before he died.

Jordan offers a unique blend of modernity and tradition, amid a history that dates back to ancient civilizations. 

There are several cheap flights from Europe getting you to Aqaba or Amman for less than £100 return. 

This stunning but quiet country with some of the most hospitable people I have met offers captivating landscapes as well as Islamic Heritage. Not only are Omani people some of the most hospitable but also the country boasts so much history and beauty. 

Muscat, the capital, charms visitors with its ornate mosques and historical forts. Nature lovers can explore the majestic Omani mountains, visit the picturesque Wadis, or experience the vastness of the Wahiba Sands desert.

Also, don’t miss a visit to Salalah the south part of the country that becomes an oasis in the summer with lush landscapes. You can also enjoy a halal resort option there like we did in the Anantara Salalah with a private enclosed pool villa. 

We had one of the best holidays there. 

• Al Baleed Resort Salal Halal Holiday
• Muscat Places to visit
• Omar Air business class review 

Kuwait was the first country I visited after becoming a Muslim. This small country has peace in my heart and it welcomes people. I still have many Kuwait friends. 

Kuwait is a modern city with skyscrapers and a vibrant Islamic culture. The Grand Mosque in Kuwait City is a prominent landmark, and the Kuwait Towers offer panoramic views. 

Visitors can also stroll along the lively Arabian Gulf Street or explore the traditional Souq Mubarakiya. You can explore most places within a couple of days. 

If you are looking for a halal hotel option then make sure you check the Regency Hotel in Kuwait. They have a separate area for women with a private beach and pool. 

• Halal Hotels in the Middle East

13 Maldives

Thinking of the Maldives the first thing that comes to your mind is luxury overwater villas with stunning views and an amazing holiday experience that blows the budget. 

While this is true, the Maldives is an island country that is 100% Muslim offering some of the best halal beach holiday destinations that can be truly halal. 

You can explore natural beauty without breaking the bank while visiting the local Maldivian islands for a fraction of the price. 

We visited Maafushi on a budget and since the islands are alcohol-free, you can even swim on the local beaches in burkini. We had a great time and would hapilly go back again. 

We also visited the very luxurious Waldorf Astoria Maldives on points saving over $20,000. 

My advice? Visit a local island and indulge in all the activities, meet the locals and then experience an overwater villa. The perfect combination. 

• Maafushi Your Guide to Budget-Friendly Maldives
• Kaani Grand Maafushi Review
• Waldorf Astoria Maldives Review

14 Azerbaijan

Azerbaijan, with its fascinating mix of Islamic and Eurasian culture, offers a unique travel experience. We visited a few years ago and I absolutely enjoyed my time and the delicious food available. 

The Heydar Aliyev Center in Baku showcases modern Islamic architecture while the Old City delights visitors with its historic mosques and palaces. Explore the scenic landscapes of Gabala or discover the ancient petroglyphs of Gobustan.

• Muslim Friendly Guide to Baku 
• JW Marriott Baku Review

15 Uzbekistan

Uzbekistan is becoming one of the top Muslim-friendly destinations with its rich Islamic history of the Silk Road era. Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva are UNESCO World Heritage cities with breathtaking architectural marvels, including the Registan Square and the striking Kalon Minaret. Visitors can also explore the beautiful landscapes of the Nuratau-Kyzylkum Biosphere Reserve.

There are many halal travel tours that you can join to enjoy a full experience of the country. 

Iran boasts a rich Islamic history and architectural splendour. Cities like Isfahan, with some of the most beautiful mosques in the world and palaces like the Imam Mosque and the Ali Qapu, offer an incredible cultural experience.

Over recent years, Iran has become a popular option for travellers with many tours offering an in-depth view of it’s history. Visitors can also explore the ancient ruins of Persepolis or wander through the historic bazaars for a taste of traditional Persian culture.

• 5 Reasons Why You Should Visit Iran

17 Pakistan

An up-and-coming destination thanks to its natural and diverse beauty over the past few years thanks to social media is Pakistan. I have not visited but plan to since my daughter is half Pakistani and would love for her to meet the other side of her family. 

The country offers diverse and stunning natural beauty as well as historical sites such as the Badshahi Mosque in Lahore and the Shah Faisal Mosque in Islamabad. Visitors can also trek through the scenic valleys of Gilgit-Baltistan or explore the ancient ruins of Mohenjo-daro.

Often an overlooked halal holiday destination Tunisia has become popular with low-cost airlines flying for £100. There are however so many more reasons to visit Tunis and the country in general. The country is home to significant mosques and Islamic sites, including the esteemed Great Mosque of Kairouan, the oldest mosque in North Africa. 

The Medina of Tunis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a vibrant historical quarter that showcases the intertwining of faith and history. Zaytuna University was established over a thousand years ago, Zaytuna University in Tunisia is one of the oldest Islamic educational institutions globally. 

This small country in Southeast Asia offers some of the best Islamic vacation spots with its cultural heritage, Islamic architecture and modesty. With a high safety ranking it is not only a great option for Muslims but also solo travelers. 

The Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque in Bandar Seri Begawan is a spectacular landmark. Explore the pristine rainforests of Ulu Temburong National Park or visit the fascinating Kampong Ayer, a traditional water village.

Lebanon is such a mix of modernity, Islamic heritage and stunning landscapes. With hospitality, part of their nature Lebanese food and people hold my heart. 

Beirut, the capital city, blends modernity with tradition, offering a vibrant cultural experience. Visitors can marvel at the beautiful Mohammad Al-Amin Mosque, explore the historic ruins of Baalbek, or relax along the coastline of the Mediterranean Sea.

It might not be the 100% Islamic vacation for some but I believe it should definitely be on everyone’s list of countries to visit. 

Important Aspects to Remember When Visiting Muslim Countries

Just keep in mind that although we all share the same religion sometimes actually we have different cultural practices. For example in some countries walking with shoes is normal even at home, whereas in others it is not. Or when you are offered food in Arab countries that you cannot refuse because it is rude, whereas in the UK you can simply leave it on your plate. 

I am always fascinated with those nuisances that occur around the world and I cannot recollect the amount of times I have actually been in the wrong. But I learned! 

The general Islamic principles of modesty, although be aware not every country is ultra modest and the distance between male and female are generally the same. 

Questions about Muslim countries and destinations

Q: what are some of the best muslim countries to visit for a halal holiday.

A: Some of the best Muslim countries to visit for a halal holiday are Malaysia, Indonesia, Turkey, Saudi Arabia, Brunei, Morocco, Qatar, Oman, Jordan, and Egypt.

Q: Why is Malaysia considered one of the best Muslim holiday destinations?

A: Malaysia is considered one of the best Muslim holiday destinations because it offers a diverse range of halal food options, a large number of mosques, Muslim-friendly accommodations with private villas, and a vibrant Islamic culture.

Q: What makes a travel destination “Muslim-friendly”?

A: A travel destination is considered “Muslim-friendly” when it caters to the needs of Muslim travelers, providing facilities such as halal food, and prayer facilities, but it is not a Muslim country.

Q: Are there any beach holiday destinations that are suitable for Muslim travelers?

A: Yes, there are several beach holiday destinations that are suitable for Muslim travelers. Countries like Malaysia, Maldives, Turkey, Indonesia, and Qatar offer beautiful beaches along with facilities for Muslim travellers.

Q: Are all Muslim majority countries suitable for Muslim travelers?

A: While most Muslim-majority countries are suitable for Muslim travelers, it comes down to personal preference of what you enjoy and how much modesty and culture you want mixing in. 

Personally, the world is my oyster and I don’t always explore Muslim countries as I find that building bridges, meeting non-Muslims and expanding my horizons is part of me. 

Q: Are there any destinations around the world that offer halal food options?

A: Yes, many destinations around the world offer halal food options. Muslim communities can be found in various countries, and restaurants that serve halal food can be easily found in cities with significant Muslim populations.

Q: Are there any specific requirements for Muslim women when visiting Muslim countries?

A: No, you can dress as you please unless you visit religious sites. Whether you are a Muslim solo traveler or not the world is there for you. Many might not want to travel without Mahram but again it is a personal choice. 

Q: Are there any specific guidelines for visiting mosques in different countries?

A: Yes, when visiting mosques in different countries, it is important to dress modestly and respectfully. Both men and women should cover their shoulders and knees, and women may be required to cover their heads with a scarf.

The Best Muslim-Friendly Destinations in the World

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When U.S. Diplomats Visit China, Meal Choices Are About More Than Taste Buds

Visits to China by American officials like Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken can bring fame to local restaurants, as well as scrutiny to the dignitaries.

By Yan Zhuang

Beijing beer made with American hops, to highlight the trade relationship between the two countries. Tibetan food, to send a human rights message. Mushrooms with possible hallucinogenic properties, just because they taste good.

Where, what and how American dignitaries eat when they visit China is a serious matter. Choices of restaurants and dishes are rife with opportunities for geopolitical symbolism, as well as controversy and mockery. Chopstick skills — or a lack thereof — can be a sign of cultural competence or illiteracy.

An exorbitantly expensive meal can make an official look out of touch. Too cheap or informal, and you risk appearing undignified. Authenticity, history, cooking technique and taste can all affect the perception of a meal choice.

When Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken started a trip through China on Wednesday, part of the Biden administration’s efforts to stabilize the relationship between the two countries, some on Chinese social media wondered whether he would have time on his visit to Shanghai to stop and try some of the city’s famous xiaolongbao (soup dumplings).

One recommendation that he do so came with something of a political warning: “Eating xiaolongbao is just like handling international relations,” a commentator wrote on Weibo . “If your attention slips even a little, you’ll burn your mouth.”

Mr. Blinken did in fact visit a renowned soup dumpling restaurant that night. It’s unclear how much he considered the symbolism of his dumplings, but by indulging in a traditional popular snack, and by attending a basketball game, the optics suggested there was a more cordial spirit than on the trip he made last year, soon after a Chinese spy balloon drifting across the United States had heightened tensions.

While in Beijing, Mr. Blinken visited a notable establishment, in addition to the city’s restaurants: Li-Pi Records. Mr. Blinken — a musician who has touted “musical diplomacy” — bought two records: an album by the Chinese rocker Dou Wei, and Taylor Swift’s “Midnights,” which he described as a successful American export.

Mr. Blinken’s eating habits have drawn far less interest than that of Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen. Over two trips, this month and last year, her meals in China attracted so much attention that the state-run Global Times deemed it a form of “food diplomacy.”

Last year, Ms. Yellen made headlines when, at a restaurant in Beijing serving cuisine from Yunnan Province, she ate mushrooms that were revealed to be mildly toxic and could cause hallucinations if not cooked properly.

Ms. Yellen later said that she was not aware of the mushrooms’ potential hallucinogenic properties when she ate them and felt no abnormal effects. Still, the story sparked a brief craze for the mushrooms in China.

This month, during a four-day trip to China, Ms. Yellen visited a famed Cantonese restaurant in Guangzhou, and a Sichuan restaurant in Beijing. The dishes she ordered were quickly posted online, drawing broad approval from commenters for the variety and affordability of the dishes ordered, her chopstick skills and the fact that she and her team sat among other diners instead of in a private room.

The dishes Ms. Yellen and her team ordered were classic meals from their respective regions and were not modified to foreign tastes, according to Fuchsia Dunlop, a London-based cook and food writer who specializes in Chinese cuisine.

“They haven’t chosen really expensive, show-off dishes and ingredients,” Ms. Dunlop said, speaking about the Sichuan meal. “This is very much what everyday people in Sichuan like to eat. This menu was chosen for flavor, not prestige.”

According to a Treasury Department spokeswoman, the department generally solicits suggestions from staff at the local embassy for restaurant recommendations when Ms. Yellen travels. Then, Ms. Yellen will research the restaurants herself and make the final decision.

On occasion, specific establishments will be chosen to convey a diplomatic message, the spokeswoman added. She cited Ms. Yellen’s visit this month to a brewery in Beijing that uses American hops, aimed to highlight the significance of American agricultural exports to China.

Some restaurants where Ms. Yellen has dined have capitalized on her fame, like the Yunnan restaurant where she ate the mushrooms, which released a set menu based on what she ordered, called the “ God of Money ” menu, a nod to her position as Treasury secretary.

Ms. Yellen isn’t the first American dignitary to turn Chinese restaurants into overnight sensations. In 2011, a visit by then-Vice President Joe Biden to a Beijing noodle restaurant sent its business skyrocketing, according to Chinese state media, and led the restaurant to create a “Biden set” noodle menu.

In 2014, after Michelle Obama visited a hot pot restaurant in the city of Chengdu, the restaurant said it would create an “American First Lady” set menu. Articles in Chinese media noted approvingly that Mrs. Obama was able to handle the spicy soup, which was not toned down for a foreign palate.

Her visit to a Tibetan restaurant in the same city, however, attracted controversy, and her staff at the time readily acknowledged that the venue had been chosen deliberately to show support for the rights and religious liberties of Tibetans in China.

But for Mrs. Obama’s husband and other U.S. presidents, Chinese cuisine served at official state banquets is often Americanized or customized to better suit a foreign palette.

In 2009, President Barack Obama was served a Chinese-style beef steak and baked fish, according to Chinese state media, and in 2017, President Donald J. Trump ate dishes including kung pao chicken and stewed boneless beef in tomato sauce. Both meals finished with fruit ice cream, which is highly atypical of traditional Chinese meals.

But even those meals may hint at an international trend, Ms. Dunlop said. Mr. Obama’s menu contained “very safe, conservative choices that would be appealing to foreigners,” she said, while Mr. Trump’s menu was slightly more contemporary and showed off more Chinese cooking techniques.

That shift, Ms. Dunlop said, “may reflect China feeling a bit more confident with Westerners’ familiarity with real Chinese food” in 2017 versus 2009.

Ana Swanson contributed reporting.

Yan Zhuang is a Times reporter in Seoul who covers breaking news. More about Yan Zhuang

What Is the Best City in Germany to Visit? 7 Must-See Places

E urope is home to stunning landscapes, picturesque castles, and vibrant towns, and one of the best countries to visit on your tour of Europe is Germany. It’s one of the top tourist destinations in the world, with over 12 million tourists in 2021 alone. Part of the joy of planning a Germany vacation is deciding which cities to explore.

Finding the best city in Germany is challenging, as there’s something for everyone to enjoy in this beautiful country. Knowing your interests and researching is the best path toward a memorable vacation for you and your family.

The good news is that you’ve discovered the best German tour guide to help you explore Hamburg, Bavaria, and everything in between. Continue reading to find the best places to visit in Germany today!

Hamburg is an impressive German city located on the Jutland Peninsula. It’s an excellent spot to add to your list of German cities to visit during your time in Deutschland. It’s also home to some of the best coffee shops in Germany, making it perfect to pick up your coffee and explore the city’s sights and attractions.

It’s also home to a significant number of street fairs and festivals. The Hamburg Christmas Markets are among the best in Europe, making Hamburg a top destination if you want to visit Europe for the holidays. It’s a city you’ll want to return to in the future for a sophisticated and urban experience.

Berlin is the capital of Germany and one of those constantly changing cities. You’ll find many impressive sights to explore and see in Berlin. The Reichstag, Brandenburg Gate, and the East Side Gallery are the top tourist attractions.

It’s also a city known for its food scene. You’ll love your time in Berlin if you’re a foodie, and there are fantastic food options for all diets and food restrictions. Berlin is famous for its burger options, with tasty burger restaurants dotting the entire city.

No trip to Germany is complete without exploring the capital for a day or two. It’s a cultural hub for Germany with an extensive history. Work to master German before your trip to meet exciting people, make friends, and enjoy unique experiences with the locals.

Cologne is most famous for its impressive Gothic cathedral that towers over the rest of the city. The city’s origins started as a Roman outpost during their battles with the Germanic tribes, and it has blossomed into a stunning cultural city. It’s the cultural hub of the Rhineland region.

The Cologne Cathedral is the first stop to make during your visit to this stunning German city. The climb is challenging, but the views at the top are worth the effort (and possibly swear words) on the journey.

The Belgian Quarter is worth experiencing if you enjoy the bar scene while traveling. It’s home to countless bars and restaurants, making finding what suits your personality easy. Visit the famous museums in this part of town to complete your Cologne experience.

4. Nuremberg

Nuremberg is filled with history, picturesque architecture, and colorful streets to explore while enjoying your holiday in Germany. It’s also famous for its gingerbread, so prepare your stomach in advance to chow down on traditional German sweets before putting your exploring shoes on.

History buffs should visit the Documentation Center Nazi Party Rally Grounds to learn more about Germany’s history before and during World War Two. Art lovers will also be happy in Nuremberg with a visit to the Neues Museum Nuremberg. It’s home to some of the most impressive art exhibits in Europe.

Take time to explore local restaurants to taste authentic German cuisine. Nuremberg has a wonderful restaurant scene, providing an excellent way to refuel and wind down after a long day of exploring. Remember to enjoy a stein of cold German beer before turning in for the night.

6. Heidelberg

Heidelberg is one of the smaller German cities on this list, but visiting this stunning city on your German vacation is worth your time. Heidelberg Castle is the prime tourist destination in this town, so make sure to check it out during your first day in the city.

The Philosopher’s Walk is another experience you won’t want to miss when your travels bring you to Heidelberg. View the Neckar River during your walk before looking for the top restaurants in the city to fill your stomach with tasty German cuisine.

The architecture combined with the rolling hills makes Heidelburg a fantastic stop if you want a small city filled with culture. It’s one of the best places to visit in Germany for a different experience than in larger cities like Cologne, Berlin, and Hamburg.

7. Freiberg

Freiberg is another smaller city to add to your list of the best cities in Germany. It’s a small town located on the edge of the Black Forest, with close proximity to France and Switzerland. It’s one of the most stunning cities in Germany to explore and experience.

It’s a vibrant area to visit when checking out cities in Germany. The city is home to a laidback and impressive university and is loaded with history. It’s also one of the warmest and sunniest cities in Germany, making it the perfect destination for planning a German vacation.

The Art Museum should be one of your first stops after arriving in Freiberg. The historic center is also worth checking out if you want to try quaint coffee shops and refuel on food. You’ll enjoy an authentic German experience during your visit to Freiberg.

Find the Best City in Germany Today

Planning a visit to the best city in Germany is an excellent way to see more of the world and learn about a vibrant culture. Large cities like Berlin and Hamburg provide a cool vibe with many restaurants and bars to check out, while Nuremberg offers more history and architecture. Visit Freiberg for a quaint, small-town vibe steeped in art and history.

Traveling is a fantastic way to learn about the world and different cultures. Use our Travel guides and articles to plan your next vacation today!

This article is published by NYTech in collaboration with Syndication Cloud.

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This Hotel in Istanbul Was Just Voted the Best in the World — Here's What It's Like to Stay

From gorgeous decor to an ideal location, and an unmatched history, this hotel has it all.

Food and Drink

Activities and amenities, family-friendly offerings, sustainability, how to get the best value.

Courtesy of Four Seasons

Any hotel can host you in a destination, but an extraordinary one will immerse you in the local culture right from the jump. The Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at Sultanahmet, voted the best hotel in the world by our readers in this year’s World’s Best Awards , sits firmly in the latter. 

“This recognition is an incredible honor for our team in Sultanahmet and across Four Seasons, further solidifying our position as luxury hospitality leaders. This exceptional property reflects our enduring commitment to personalized service and exemplary quality – all grounded in the genuine heart of our people,” Alejandro Reynal, the president and CEO of Four Seasons, told Travel & Leisure about winning the remarkable accolade. 

Right from its curbside entrance at Tevkifhane Street, the hotel is indeed a special one. Upon exiting my cab on a warm fall day, I got to experience this particular brand of magic for myself, determined to make the most of my short weekend getaway to Istanbul — and luckily for me and all the hotel guests, the towering neoclassical yellow building sits just a short walk from some of Istanbul’s most famous sites. But we’ll get into that in a minute because the building deserves to be this story's star. 

The Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at Sultanahmet

• The beds here are unlike any we’ve ever experienced.
• Süreyya Teras Lounge has unmatched city views — among the best in the city.
• The spa’s hammam experience will leave your skin feeling like a baby’s bottom.

This particular building hasn’t always been a destination people want to check into. Built in 1918, it began as a guest house only to be quickly transformed into the Ottoman Empire's first jailhouse, a convenient destination next to the local courthouse. Even the street names give away its history — Tevkifhane translates to “detainee,” while the street around the corner from the front door, where prisoners were released, is named Kutlugün, meaning “happy day.” 

Political prisoners were often housed here, including novelist Orhan Kemal, who wrote Ward 72 while imprisoned. The jail eventually closed in 1969; however, following the 1980 coup, it was reopened for a short time as a military jail before falling into disrepair until 1996, when the Four Seasons took over. But the brand has made sure not to forget the building and the area’s extraordinary past. 

“The property itself is a marvel, and the thoughtful enhancements of its century-old Turkish neoclassical architecture have ushered in its next chapter, creating new opportunities for our guests to discover Istanbul from our very special hotel at the heart of the city’s Old Town,” Reynal said. “From Sultanahmet and beyond, our teams will continue to shine bright by building lasting connections with our guests and bringing the very best travel experiences to life.”

Not only did the Four Seasons brand work meticulously to preserve elements of the building in the mid-'90s, it did so again in 2022, when it emerged from a two-year renovation project, pulling in even more of Turkey’s gorgeous style into every room. “Our designers researched styling, pattern, and details from antiques, fabrics, and architecture and distilled these influences through a contemporary filter to create designs that feel completely in tune with the building and setting,” Martin Goddard of the design studio Goddard Littlefair, shared in a statement following the unveiling. 

Indeed, every inch of this space feels not only aligned with its surroundings but a part of them. Despite being next door to some of the most visited sites in the nation, it still provides guests with all the peace, quiet, and privacy they’d want. 

Upon check-in, I was whisked directly to my premiere room. Though the hotel’s smallest room category, it still clocked in at 645 square feet, larger than most New York City apartments. Everything about it felt plush — from the entry couch to the upholstered chairs around a small dining table for any in-room meals, the Turkish Kilim textiles hanging on the walls, and, of course, the overstuffed bed that sat like a cloud, ready to envelop weary travelers. However, I wasted no time lying down, instead doing what all guests at the Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at Sultanahmet should do: swing open the windows. 

My room happened to open up to the dazzling and verdant courtyard below, sectioned off with intentional style to include garden space, lounge, and dining spaces, which can be enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, and dinner thanks to the Avlu Restaurant — think Anatolian mezze plates; erişte pasta made with chives, spiced walnut, sautéed asparagus; and lamb tander smothered in a gorgeous tomato sauce with sheep cheese, oregano, chili flakes, sumac, and yogurt. Though the food here is undoubtedly fabulous, do make sure to head a few floors up for sunset. 

Resting atop the hotel sits Süreyya, its rooftop bar that comes with the bonus of the breathtaking Hagia Sofia Grand Mosque as the backdrop, making it the perfect place to transition from day to night with a craft cocktail in hand, like its Sultan Martini, made with vodka, passion fruit, yuzu juice, and vanilla syrup. Those feeling peckish while looking at the view can order small plates, salads, sandwiches, a sweet treat, or a cheese and honey plate stacked with Anatolian cheeses. 

However, there was one destination in the hotel that I couldn’t experience — but you now can. That is the Kurna Spa, offering traditional Turkish hammam rituals on its massive slate gray marble stones surrounded by colorful blue and soft green Turkish tiles, alongside a full menu of massages and facials. 

Though I didn’t get to see the spa during my stay, I could still explore so much more thanks to the hotel’s privileged position steps from the Hagia Sofia, the Blue Mosque, and the Grand Bazaar, about a 15-minute walk away. There, I filled my bags with jewels, sweet-smelling spices, and tiny trinkets to remember my trip by. I also purchased two large rugs from a local supplier. Unsure of how I’d get them back to the hotel, the merchant asked where I was staying, and I couldn't even get the hotel's full name out before he said they’d be delivered to my room within an hour. And true to his word, they were there upon my return, speaking to how stellar this hotel’s relationships are within the area. 

The hotel, without question, deserves all the praise heaped upon it for the food and drink (worthy of a visit alone), the decor that roots you firmly in Istanbul, but most of all, because it is so utterly welcoming to all that walk through its door, setting a standard for hospitality that few can match. And the view most certainly doesn’t hurt either. 

The Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at Sultanahmet offers 65 luxurious rooms across several categories, including deluxe, premiere, and superior rooms and eight suites. Every room includes a seating area, a dining table, and an over-the-top fluffy bed. Guests can maximize their stay by booking the Beyzade Suite, a bi-level suite offering sweeping views thanks to its floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the street below. 

The hotel offers guests plenty of choices when it comes to their meals. Guests can book a fine dining experience at Avlu, its outdoor restaurant located in the courtyard, or inside at its elevated Lingo Lingo Bar and Restaurant. Guests are also invited to sip cocktails at night on the roof at Süreyya Teras Lounge or grab a coffee and a pastry in the morning at its on-site cafe, La Pistache. 

The concierge at the hotel will happily help guests deep dive into local culture by setting them up with one of the hotel’s unique experiences. This includes activities like an exclusive Bosphorus cruise, time with a Turkish coffee fortune teller, and a Wonders of Istanbul local tour. 

At the hotel, guests can book treatments at Kurna Spa, including traditional Turkish hammam treatments that will leave them feeling fully renewed. 

The hotel offers guests babysitting services, as well as baby and child amenities like cribs and rollaway beds, to ensure everyone has a fun and comfortable stay. 

The hotel takes part in various Four Seasons sustainability efforts, as well as site-specific efforts like its water reduction program through water-efficient landscaping, and irrigation control, waste reduction via the elimination of single-use plastic food and beverage containers and bathroom amenities, and by offering local, sustainable food and beverages and seasonal menus. The hotel also celebrates sustainability through its local tours to heritage sites and by displaying local artists throughout the hotel to bolster the Istanbul community.

There’s no need to rent a car when staying at The Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at Sultanahmet. It’s within walking distance to several major attractions, including the Hagia Sophia Basilica, Topkapi Palace, the Blue Mosque, and the Grand Bazaar. There are plenty of taxis available as well. 

A good way to get a little value out of your stay is by booking the hotel’s bed & breakfast rate, which includes the daily buffet breakfast in AVLU restaurant or an American breakfast through in-room dining for up to two guests. 

This Is the Best Airport in the World, According to a New Ranking

By Hannah Towey

Hamad International Airport (HIA) in Qatar was just named the best airport in the world in the 2024 Skytrax awards, knocking 12-time winner Singapore Changi Airport down to second place.

The annual ranking is based on customer satisfaction surveys of over 500 airports, evaluating factors such as cleanliness, friendliness of airport staff, the ease of getting to and from the airport, terminal design, dining options, and more.

Hamad International Airport first opened in 2014, replacing the adjacent Doha International Airport as Qatar's main aviation hub. The airport is operated by Qatar Airways, which is consistently ranked one of the best international airlines in the Condé Nast Traveler Reader's Choice Awards , and is the only airport designed specifically for the Airbus A380 plane. This year marks the third time the airport has won the prestigious industry award.

So, what exactly sets the airport apart from the competition? One of its newest—and most ambitious—features is the “Orchard,” a 6,000-square-meter indoor tropical garden with 65 retail and dining venues launched in 2022 as part of a multi-year expansion project. Home to over 300 trees and 25,000 plants from sustainable forests around the world, it's one of the airport's many green initiatives that includes a waste management program that recycles 3,979 tons of organic compost per year to be used as fertilizer.

“Throughout our young history, we have continued to showcase our commitment to environmental sustainability–from improving carbon efficiency to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and managing wastewater," Michael McMillan, the airport's vice president of facilities management said in a 2022 news release . “Sustainability has proudly been at the forefront of what we do since our inception.”

Over the past couple years, the airport has also added a brand-new airport hotel, Oryx Garden Hotel, as well as four new airport lounges, including the glamorous Louis Vuitton Lounge . In addition to Louis Vuitton, the airport's massive retail center Qatar Duty Free has an entire “street” called Viale del Lusso devoted to luxury shops like Dolce&Gabbana, Jimmy Choo, and Valentino. It perhaps comes at no surprise then that the airport also won Skytrax's 2024 award for the world’s best airport shopping.

The Louis Vuitton Lounge by Yannick Alléno in Doha's Hamad International Airport.

Chef Yannick Alléno highlights local ingredients, French favorites, and international fare.

The airport served over 45 million passengers in 2023, a 31% increase compared to the previous year, surpassing the previous record set during the FIFA World Cup. HIA has also added new international airline partners, including Vistara, Iberia, Xiamen Airlines, Garuda Indonesia, and Japan Airlines, and serves over 250 destinations. The airport's rapid growth shows now signs of stopping: the second phase of the expansion, scheduled to begin in 2023, aims to expand the airport's capacity to over 70 million annual passengers.

“Our continuous investment in our facilities and pioneering initiatives in retail and hospitality within a single expansive terminal has made this achievement possible," Badr Mohammed Al-Meer, the CEO of Qatar Airways Group, said in a news release . "We have introduced a diverse range of experiences at the airport, including ‘Souq Al Matar’, which brings Qatari hospitality and culture closer to travelers; ‘Orchard’, the ideal place for relaxation and rejuvenation between flights; and an array of high-end lounges.”

Other standout winners in the 2024 Skytrax airport awards include Seoul's Incheon Airport, the world’s most family friendly airport; Tokyo's Haneda Airport, the world’s cleanest airport; and the Istanbul Airport, for the world’s best airport dining experience.

Below, see the world's best airports , according to the 2024 Skytrax World Airport Awards. How many have you been to?

The World’s Top 20 Airports for 2024

• Doha Hamad Airport
• Singapore Changi Airport
• Seoul Incheon Airport
• Tokyo Haneda Airport
• Tokyo Narita Airport
• Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport
• Dubai Airport
• Munich Airport
• Zurich Airport
• Istanbul Airport
• Hong Kong Airport
• Rome Fiumicino Airport
• Vienna Airport
• Helsinki-Vantaa
• Madrid-Barajas
• Centrair Nagoya Airport
• Vancouver Airport
• Kansai Airport
• Melbourne Airport
• Copenhagen Airport

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