13 Top Destinations in the World That Are Perfect for Foodies
Some of the links might be affiliate links and, at no extra cost to you, we earn a small commission. See our disclaimer for more info.
From the street food of southeast Asia to sampling food in one of the world’s top wine regions, fragrant, flavorsome fare can be found all over the planet. Whether you’d love to loosen your waistband before settling down to a Michelin feast or would rather sample local delicacies on the go, here are some of the best foodie destinations.
Mexico City
Save this!
We'll email this post to you, so you can come back to it later.
If you’re all about chili, tacos, and guacamole – or even tequila – then you must visit Mexico City. While wandering around, admiring the Aztec and Spanish colonial architecture, you can have fun finding your favorite local restaurant. Foodie tours and cooking classes are also big news here. It’s also affordable, meaning you can munch your way through even more.
Read also: Must-Visit Cities in the World
Stellenbosch, South Africa
Stellenbosch is the ideal destination for those who love fine wine as much as food. The region is only around an hour by car from Cape Town and has a stellar reputation for both. Many of the menus at the restaurants here have been curated by leading chefs to match the local wines, and you can savor spectacular views as you dine al fresco.
Read also: Most Beautiful Cities Across the Globe
London, UK
If you want to sample good food from all over the globe, there’s arguably no better place than London. The city’s ethnic diversity means there’s so much choice, from Chinatown in the heart of the west end to the Indian eateries of Brick Lane in the east.
London is also the best place to indulge in a sumptuous afternoon tea, consisting of finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones with lashings of jam and cream, and a selection of dainty cakes. Book a table at a top London hotel for the best experience.
Read also: Most Beautiful Countries
Copenhagen, Denmark
The mega-popular and highly acclaimed Noma is at least partly responsible for Copenhagen’s reputation as a foodie mecca. With three Michelin stars, securing a restaurant table remains challenging. But the good news is that several former Noma chefs have left to set up their own establishments, such as Amass, 108, and Sanchez. At the other end of the scale, Reffen’s street food stalls serve up freshly prepared fare from all over the world.
Read also: Charming Fairytale Towns in the World
Crete, Greece
Crete is a foodie’s dream, blending traditional and bold flavors from street snacks to fine dining. With its focus on fresh, local ingredients like olive oil, cheeses, and seafood, every meal is a celebration. Dive into classic Greek dishes like moussaka or explore with cooking classes and wine tastings. For a taste of the Mediterranean that delights and surprises, Crete’s culinary scene is unmatched.
Read also: Must-Try Greek Foods
San Sebastian, Spain
Foodies flock to San Sebastian on the Bay of Biscay in northern Spain for various foodie experiences. From affordable food markets to Michelin-starred fine dining, you can find it all here. The local pintxos bars are also a real highlight, specializing in Basque-style tapas. Or sample modern Basque cuisine at Arzak, which boasts three Michelin stars.
Read also: Most Beautiful Places in the World
Bangkok, Thailand
Thai food is a global favorite, and if you love the fragrant, spicy flavors, then Bangkok is unbeatable. Prices are low here, meaning you can dine on street food for next to nothing, and even fine dining is more affordable than in the West. The river also provides unique foodie experiences, from the floating markets to dinner cruises operated by five-star hotels.
🏨 Explore all your hotel options here
Read also: Top Adventure Travel Destinations
Tuscany, Italy
Tuscany is a dream summer vacation destination and a foodie’s paradise. Whether you simply want to tuck into a memorable meal made from local produce or learn to make fresh pasta by taking a cooking class led by locals, there’s no better place. If you’re into wine as much as food, visit Montepulciano or Chianti, where some of the finest Italian wines are produced.
Read also: Iconic Places in the World
Istanbul, Turkey
The scent of spices in the air welcomes you to Istanbul, one of the world’s top cities for food fans. Frankly, you haven’t tried a kebab until you’ve eaten one in Turkey, which will be nothing like those you may have sampled elsewhere. Other must-tries where east meets west include the pizza-like pide, mixed meze, and sweet, syrupy baklava.
Read also: Incredible Cities With Ancient Architecture
Hong Kong
Whether you want to indulge in your favorite, tried-and-tested foods or are ready to push your culinary limits, Hong Kong is a foodie’s paradise. From street food and organized tours to Michelin-starred dim sum restaurants, there’s so much on offer. If you eat meat, the local specialty of succulent, tender roast goose is a real palate-pleaser.
Read also: Hidden Romantic Destinations
New York City
The multicultural city of New York offers the world on a plate. One of the reasons why this is such a good foodie destination is its popularity with leading chefs. You can sample everything from street food to Michelin-starred fare here. Whether you prefer pizza to steak, a hot dog to noodles, or a bagel on the go to brunch, the city is undoubtedly among the planet’s foodie hotspots.
Read also: Visa-Free Countries for Americans
Bordeaux, France
Forget Paris if you want to dive into the French foodie scene. Though the capital has lots to offer, it has its fair share of tourist traps. Instead, head to Bordeaux, where you can wash down all that gourmet French food with locally produced fine wine. There’s even a wine museum in the city, or take two wheels to explore the scenic – and relatively flat – countryside.
Read also: Luxury Destinations in Europe
Tokyo, Japan
Sushi fans will already know why Tokyo is one of the world’s foodie hotspots. But the Japanese capital’s culinary scene has so much more to offer besides. Take part in a traditional tea ceremony and sample the likes of tempura, udon noodles, yakitori chicken, and, of course, Tokyo buns. Don’t miss the local Izakayas, too, which offer drinking, dining, and socializing.
Read also: Visa-Free Asian Destinations
