Food is essential in more ways than one. Forget families, cities, and towns… entire civilizations are fueled and shaped by the food they eat on a daily basis. The diversity of the planet is reflected in the vast array of sweet and savory culinary options available. It’s inspired more than a few vacation itineraries too.
Culinary tourism isn’t new, it’s just more accessible.1 You can hit the road and explore the tastes around you or hop on a plane just as easily. The hard part is narrowing your destination down to just one.
Shutterstock: I Wei HuangTokyo, Japan
You can’t go wrong anywhere in Japan, but it’s hard not to favor Tokyo. From sushi and ramen to izakaya, the iconic city is home to some of the best restaurants on the planet. It’s a must-visit destination for seafood fans, and night-life lovers. Explore the city yourself, or sign up for one of the many guided foodie experiences available.2
Bangkok, Thailand
Bangkok is known for its vibrant street food scene featuring everything from spicy tom yum soup to crispy pad thai, to mango sticky rice. The bustling city attracts millions of food tourists each year with promises of unforgettable sights and tastes with a price tag that won’t upset your appetite.
Paris, France
You’re likely familiar with the city’s reputation for romance, much of which has been built off the back of their world-class culinary culture. From fresh croissants and pain au chocolat to escargot and foie gras, to some of the most celebrated selections of wine and spirit around, the city’s cuisine is as diverse as it is delicious. You can explore the city’s charming cafes and bistros or indulge in fine dining experiences at Michelin-starred restaurants.
Istanbul, Turkey
Istanbul is a vibrant city that blends modernity with tradition, and the same goes for its cuisine. Highlights of the city’s street food scene include delicious kebabs, baklava, and Turkish delight. The city is a hotbed for coffee drinkers too. Culinary experiences range from street-cooked regional delights to high-end restaurants serving traditional Ottoman cuisine.
Rome, Italy
Rome is the premier foodie destination in a country that’s famous for its food. The Italian city’s pizza and pasta are world-renowned, and you can indulge in authentic dishes at the city’s many trattorias and pizzerias. You can also explore the city’s gelato scene and or sip on some of the region’s many coffee-based beverages.
New York City, USA
New York City is a melting pot of cultures, and the same goes for its cuisine. You can find everything from traditional American fare to international cuisine in the city’s many restaurants and food trucks. It’s the birthplace of a number of its own inventions too, including the chopped cheese, New York style bagels, the New York pizza slice, and the pastrami on rye sandwich.
Hanoi, Vietnam
Vietnamese cuisine is known for freshness and delicate flavors, and Hanoi is the country’s epicenter. From the city’s famous pho to its delicious banh mi sandwiches, there are plenty of delicious ways to fill your plate. Once you’ve had your fill, you’re free to walk the bustling streets and browse the market stalls for even more flavors and experiences.
Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona is known for many things, but it holds a special place in the hearts of international foodies. Home to the most Michelin starred restaurants in all of Spain, Barcelona is a food lover’s paradise. From tapas to paella, Spanish cuisine is rich and flavorful. Explore the city’s many restaurants and bars at your leisure or sign up for one the many culinary tours available.
Mumbai, India
Indian food is a major player on the international stage. You’d scarcely find an American city without at least one Indian restaurant. Those are a sorry substitute for the real thing though. Travelers on the hunt for a more authentic Indian food experience should seriously consider Mumbai. India’s culinary epicenter features everything from street-prepared food to high-end dining experiences.
Seoul, South Korea
South Korean cuisine has gained popularity around the world, and Seoul offers hungry travelers the opportunity to try it all. From the popular Korean BBQ to the spicy kimchi stew, the city’s cuisine is diverse and delicious. You can also explore the city’s street food scene and try dishes like tteokbokki and hotteok.
Copenhagen, Denmark
Denmark has gained popularity for its innovative and modern cuisine, and Copenhagen is the ultimate destination to explore the country’s tastes. From New Nordic cuisine to the city’s famous open-faced sandwiches, a culinary travel experience in Denmark promises to be unique and flavorful.
Singapore
Singapore is a melting pot of cultures, and the same goes for its cuisine. From the city’s famous hawker centers to its high-end restaurants, there are plenty of dishes to try. You can indulge in dishes like the famous chili crab or laksa, and also explore the city’s street food scene.
Eat Your Way Around The World!
Traveling in search of new culinary experiences can be a great way to familiarize you and your family with new cultures and expand your palate. With the destinations listed above, you can indulge in a wide range of cuisines that are sure to satisfy your taste buds. From street food to high-end dining, these destinations offer a diverse range of food experiences that you won’t want to miss.3
