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Plan your trip around food and eat your way across the country.

Love food ? HungryTrip is not a GPS, it's a food finder . It's for the person that plans their whole trip around food. If you're a foodie that loves interesting restaurants and new food adventures, HungryTrip is for you . It's about taking a tour of the best food along the best route, not just the fastest way there. These aren't just foodie destinations, they're short detours for awesome bites. Eat your way across the country , and plan a food road trip to discover the best places to eat that only locals know.

We'll help you build an entire food itinerary, even if it takes days to cover everything. You can plan every meal on your road trip so no food opportunity is wasted. You can even customize the theme. Go ahead, plan a donut road trip , or hit every tasting menu in the state and do your own restaurant ranking. Take your dream road trip to food happiness . Because it's not about the destination... It's about the journey!

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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

Kingfish sashimi at Chin Chin in Melbourne

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!)

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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.

Food Travel: Best Tips for Planning a Food Trip

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Are you an avid food traveler who loves sharing a meal with locals, looking to try new foods, and mastering cooking classes? If so, food travel is the perfect way to experience the world.

Food tourism is increasingly becoming more popular with travelers seeking unique culinary experiences abroad – from learning Nona’s secrets of Italian cuisine to taking part in a tour of tapas bars on the cobblestone streets of Spain.

Food is a universal language; food and travel can open your eyes to delicious flavors and great food worldwide.

With careful planning and some insider tips, your next food travel trip will be sure to offer an unforgettable cultural adventure that your taste buds won’t soon forget!

Food Culture and Culinary Traditions

Immersing yourself in a destination’s local food culture and culinary traditions is a thrilling experience for any traveler.

From savoring exotic spices to indulging in unique cooking techniques, the culinary scene of a destination offers a window into its rich history, cultural heritage, and amazing food!

Whether sampling street food in Asia , tasting the best tacos in Mexico City, fresh seafood in Japan , or trying the best barbecue in South Korea, each plate has authentic experiences waiting to be uncovered.

With every bite, you get closer to understanding the nuances of the local cuisine and the values that shape the food culture.

So why not take a culinary journey and expand your taste buds on your next adventure?

You might discover a new signature dish that will become a part of your culinary repertoire .

Set Your Culinary Tourism Expectations

Choose the right food travel destination, get hands-on with local cuisine, cooking classes, street food, food streets, day markets, night markets, small family-owned restaurants, food and travel destination restaurants, off the beaten food travel path, don’t forget about dessert, celiac disease, food travel faq, tips for planning a food trip.

So, are you a food enthusiast looking to embark on a culinary adventure? If yes, then great!

Here is our list of essential tips for planning an unforgettable mouth-watering food adventure.

Before you start planning your trip, it’s important to have realistic expectations about what you can achieve in the time and budget you have available.

Consider factors such as the number of days you can spend, the type of delicious food experiences you want, and any dietary restrictions that need to be considered.

This will help narrow down your options and make planning an enjoyable and memorable food trip easier.

When selecting food destinations for your culinary adventure, consider factors such as its cuisine, cultural norms around food, availability of ingredients, and accessibility.

Research ahead to know what food experiences are available in each location and which restaurants or markets are worth visiting.

This will help ensure your trip is filled with delicious meals and unique experiences that make it unforgettable.

Accessing a local food travel blog will help point you in the right direction.

It is also worth seeking out the local food tourism industry boards to see if any food-related festivals or other food tourism activities are taking place while you are in town.

Vietnamese Breakfast Dishes, Food Travel

There are many ways to learn and experience local cuisine.

This introduces us to new flavors and dishes and provides an opportunity to learn about the region’s history, traditions, and way of life.

Seeking out local food experiences, whether trying street food from a local vendor or dining at a family-owned restaurant, allows us to immerse ourselves in the local culture fully.

Not only is it an important aspect of travel, but it also supports the local economy and helps preserve traditional cooking and farming methods.

Ultimately, making a point to eat locally when traveling provides a unique, unforgettable culinary adventure while supporting the communities and traditions that make that experience possible.

Taking a cooking class while traveling enables travelers to dive into the local food scene and gain unprecedented insights into the tastes and traditions that define their destination.

Whether solo traveling or with friends and family, these classes unleash the inner chef, unlocking culinary skills that enrich the traveling experience.

These classes are catered to provide a hands-on experience that allows travelers to learn how to prep, cook, and serve exotically rich delicacies – a skill set that lasts a lifetime.

My favorites have included a Thai cooking class and many Vietnamese cooking classes that are generally combined with a trip to the local market and recipes to take back to your kitchen.

An excellent way for food lovers to fully soak in all that a city or country has to offer is by taking a food tour.

While popular tourist areas may have well-known restaurants, food tours offer a more immersive culinary experience.

From savoring local delicacies to learning about the history and cultural significance behind certain dishes, food tours can give travelers a deeper appreciation for the place they are visiting.

Plus, it’s a great way to explore parts of the city that may not be on your itinerary.

A food tour that provided me with fond memories took place on the outskirts of the Mexican city of Oaxaca. We visited a local market for breakfast and a larger market for lunch and enjoyed a private tour of a Mezcal factory.

What better way to experience local cuisine than by trying local street food?

Whether it’s spicy samosas in India, banh mi in Vietnam, or fresh ceviche in Peru, street food is a cheap and delicious way to immerse yourself in the local culture.

Of course, it’s important to be cautious and choose vendors whose food looks and smells fresh and is cooked properly.

A busy vendor is normally a good sign as there will be a quick turnover of food, and it will be cooked fresh.

But with a little care and some adventurousness, trying street-level food can be a highlight of any trip.

So next time you’re traveling, don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and indulge in some of the world’s delicious street food.

One easy way to access the true taste of local food is to take a street food tour. These are generally in small groups and visit a few places to try different go-to local dishes.

What better way to experience food travel than exploring local food streets ?

These bustling streets are often packed with vendors offering delicious exotic dishes that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you wanting more.

Roaming the narrow alleys and smelling the delicious aromas from every corner is an adventure in itself.

The experience of tasting authentic local cuisine freshly prepared and cooked in front of your eyes is a perfect combination and something that cannot be replicated.

Eating in these food streets satisfies hunger and immerses oneself in the local culture, bonding with locals and making unforgettable memories.

One of Malaysia’s standout local food streets is Jalan Alor, which translates to Food Street. It is the perfect way to taste local hawker and Chinese food and regional dishes from countries such as Thailand, Korea, and Vietnam. I love this street and have written about it here. It is almost the definition of gastronomy tourism.

While restaurants can certainly offer a taste of the local flavor, there’s something special about checking out the local markets.

Not only can you find a variety of fresh, seasonal ingredients unique to the area, but you can also find vendors offering ready-to-eat meals packed with flavor and often prepared right in front of you.

Eating at local markets can also be a great way to interact with locals, learn more about the culture, and get a sense of what everyday life is like in that particular place.

My main motivation for going to the largest market on my first trip to Oaxaca, Mexico, was to order a Tlayuda de Oaxaca and experience the meat BBQ hall.

Vegetarian tlayudas de Oaxaca, food travel

The bustling atmosphere and the diversity of street food are the perfect combinations for an exciting cultural experience.

When it comes to the best food, night markets boast a wide array of delectable treats to tempt even the pickiest of eaters.

From savory skewers and piping hot dumplings to sweet desserts like boba tea and mochi, there is something for everyone.

Some of the best night markets I have been to are in Taiwan, Thailand, and Malaysia, where they provide a unique culinary experience that is not to be missed.

Having a food adventure to new destinations and trying local cuisine is one of the pleasures of traveling .

The immersive experience of dining at local family-owned restaurants, in particular, is a delightful way of getting a taste of the culture and traditions of the people.

Small, family-owned local restaurants are often havens of authentic and homemade meals prepared with love and care.

These establishments are not only unique but very welcoming due to the family’s evident pride and passion for their food business.

So when you are on your authentic food quest, small restaurants offer an array of culinary choices that will excite every traveler’s taste buds.

Eating at an expensive destination restaurant can be one of the trip’s highlights, offering a unique and memorable dining experience.

From Michelin-starred establishments to trendy fusion spots, these restaurants often showcase local ingredients and traditions in creative and innovative ways, providing a glimpse into the culture and culinary scene of the destination.

While the cost may be significantly higher than dining at local eateries, the quality and presentation often justify the price tag.

For something different, it’s time to venture off the beaten path and try some local eats .

From hole-in-the-wall diners to bustling food markets, there are plenty of opportunities to indulge in authentic cuisine you won’t find anywhere else.

Not only will you get to experience the local culture uniquely, but you’ll also discover new flavors and dishes that will become the highlight of your next food travel road trip.

So next time you hit the road, be brave and follow your taste buds to some of the best-hidden gems. Your stomach will thank you.

Desserts are often overlooked when traveling, but they shouldn’t be forgotten!

Many countries have their own unique desserts which offer sweet treats and cultural insights into their history and traditions – think flan de leche in Mexico, baklava in Turkey, and the unique three-colored dessert in Vietnam – so make sure not to miss out on these tasty delights while exploring abroad!

Plan Ahead for Dietary Requirements

If you’re planning a culinary trip and have dietary requirements, it’s important not to let that limit your experience.

Before embarking on your adventure, research the local cuisine and ingredients to understand what foods might fit your dietary needs. Once you’ve identified potential dishes and restaurants, contact them directly to see if they can accommodate any restrictions or substitutions.

Don’t be afraid to ask for recommendations from locals or other travelers with similar dietary needs.

Comprehensive food guides will often have sections covering food allergies.

With the right planning and flexibility, you can enjoy a delicious and unforgettable culinary journey without compromising your dietary requirements.

Regardless of your dietary requirements, it can be a challenge to communicate them with any level of certainty, especially when language is an issue.

If you have Celiac disease , I highly recommend these Gluten Free Restaurant Cards , translated into many languages by a very experienced traveler and someone who needs to use these cards when eating out – Jodi from Legal Nomads. Over 4,000 cards have been sold!

Have a look through the various countries that already have translations and take the stress out of food travel.

I’m often asked about the best way to communicate with vendors or restaurants when language is a barrier. That’s where these Gluten Free Restaurant Cards come into their own.

Have a look at the detailed cards from countries such as Vietnam , Thailand , Malaysia , Latin America , and Japan . They are amazing.

When traveling, it’s important to be cautious regarding food safety. Research the local cuisine and ingredients beforehand to know what foods are safe for your dietary needs. Reach out to restaurants directly if you have any questions or concerns. Additionally, packing snacks or meals from home can provide peace of mind and help you avoid potential risks.

Yes! Don’t forget to take pictures and write down your impressions of each meal, so you can remember all the dishes you tried on this culinary trip. Also, keep an open mind when it comes to trying new things – you never know when you might stumble upon a delicious local dish that you never knew existed! Finally, it helps to be mindful of other cultures while traveling. Enjoy your food experiences, but always remember to be mindful when trying new dishes and respect the local culture.

Conclusion to Food Travel Tips

Food travel is an excellent way to get to know a new destination and explore its culture.

From researching culinary traditions to sampling local dishes on the streets, you’ll find no shortage of delicious experiences when it comes to food travel.

When planning your trip, be sure to research beforehand and make a list of things to do so you don’t miss out on any of the cultural delights awaiting you.

With proper preparation, genuine curiosity, and a hungry appetite, embarking on a food-filled adventure can become an amazing memory.

Happy food traveling!!

What food can I expect?

Expect to eat the local way. We didn’t call these trips ‘food adventures’ for nothing. Forget Michelin stars and 20-course degustations – our local leaders will help you get behind the scenes of local food culture, track down the freshest street food, discover the most authentic local restaurants and reveal the traditions and techniques that make these destinations so deliciously mouth-watering.

From lining up with locals for fresh tortillas in a Mexican market to hopping between Logrono’s thriving tapas bars, they’ll show you local food from the perspective of those who eat it every day.

How does a Food Adventure differ to a regular Intrepid trip?

All of our food trips have been designed with one thing in mind – experiencing the best local food on the planet. But we all know that there’s much more to food than just eating it – so whether it’s browsing markets for fresh produce, sizzling up a storm in a cooking class or meeting a local street-food legend, we’ve stuffed your plate to the brim.

And once you’ve devoured all the local food you can handle, we’ve made sure our Food Adventures are rolled up into a burrito with the lot so you won’t miss out on the iconic sights and authentic cultural experiences that are found on all our Intrepid trips.

Is there any freedom & flexibility in the itineraries?

Like all Intrepid itineraries, we’ve made sure our food trips provide free time between activities, allowing you to digest a destination either with your group or on your own.

You might spend the morning exploring a buzzing local market with your guide and cooking a delicious local dish with your group before heading off on your own to wander the marbled halls of a museum or cycling through ancient alleys.

We’ve also left plenty of mealtimes free of organized activities, which gives you the flexibility to ‘get your gourmet on’ at a fine dining restaurant or simply seek out your own ‘real food’ adventure.

Needless to say, your leader will be there every step of the way with suggestions and recommendations.

What transport is used?

Sometimes, the best way to eat like a local is to travel like one too. That could mean jumping on a boat to discover the flavors of the Mekong Delta, riding the Tokyo subway to a sake bar or rattling along in a rickshaw in pursuit of Agra’s finest chaats. We love to use local transport because it gives us a chance to experience everyday local life from a new perspective.

What is the accommodation like?

Whether you’re spending the night in an ancient fortress or in the home of a local family, most of our trips include a memorable overnight stay that is designed to make your trip extra memorable. When we do choose to use hotels, all of our accommodation options are in our Original style, which means a mix of 2-3 star establishments that are safe, clean and comfortable.

How do Food Adventures benefit local communities?

We help support local economies by purchasing snacks and meals from street-side vendors, dining in local restaurants, eating seasonal produce from the destination, and using local guides throughout our itineraries.

Many of our trips incorporate visits to community projects, and we choose locally-owned accommodation wherever possible. We are committed to a style of travel that is culturally, environmentally and socially responsible.

Why does every Food Adventure include a plant-based meal?

Plant-based foods generally have a much lower carbon footprint than animal-based foods, and incorporating more plant-based eating into our diet is a major opportunity to mitigate and adapt to climate change. As Intrepid continues to innovate in ways to reduce our impact on the environment, including a delicious meal that showcases local fruit, vegetables, nuts and seeds is just one way that we are investing in the health of our planet.

What about vegan travelers?

We do our best on all our trips to accommodate dietary requirements (including vegan diets), and our Real Food Adventures include at least one plant-based meal. If you want a more tailored experience, that's where our Tailor-Made team can step in. We can use our 30 years of experience and regional specialists to help you create your perfect vegan food adventure.

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How to Plan a Food Trip

Close your eyes. Think about your favourite city or place to visit. Now, imagine a food you love passionately. I’m sure you smiled! That’s it, eating and travelling are things that really move us. Well, that is what Food Travel means. Is there a better thing than to combine these two passions in a culinary trip?

What is Food Travel

Food Travel means moving around with the aim of exploring a destination gastronomic offer . Exploring the pleasures of the table has always been associated with moments of leisure, but on a gastronomic trip, the culinary experience is no longer just a complement but the main motivation in choosing a destination and in the way of exploring it .

In general, it means travelling to do food tourism , which we define as follows:

Food tourism is composed of activities that provide experiences of consumption and appreciation of food and beverages, presented in such a way that value the history, the culture and the environment of a particular region. by Food’n Road

Why Food Travel?

What we want to highlight is that, in practice, when we combine travel with gastronomy, there is a whole set of experiences and learnings about the history, traditions, environment and local culture that go beyond taste. Realizing this is life-changing!

visit to the golden temple kitchen in Amritsar to make Indian food is also food travel

Food and Travel, an experience we never forget

On a trip, we want to have different experiences from our daily lives. These experiences become remarkable when you feel connected with them. That’s exactly how food plays its role.

The bond with food is a universal language, after all, no matter where you came from, food is certainly part of your history. That is why every travel memory always comes with a flavour .

meal in restaurant with traditional food in Cambodia is considered Food Travel as a culinary trip

The experience is for everyone

It is a mistake to think that this type of trip is only for those who like to (and can) eat in renowned restaurants, or visit expensive wineries. The food tourism industry is creative and aware of the interests of travellers.

Best of all, it is a democratic and flexible way of travelling. Nowadays, you can easily explore a gastronomic culture in different ways: in the countryside or in the city, individually or in groups, with luxury, with adventure. There is a broad range of options for all budgets and tastes.

We should not fail to mention that technology has also helped a lot of people who are looking for food experiences during a trip. Today, you can easily find online restaurant reviews, menu translation, independent guides, local dining platforms, and more.

For example, how about including a cooking class on your next trip? In addition to having fun while learning traditional dishes, you can cook these dishes when you return home, and remember the trip while sharing the experience with friends and family.

Want more ideas? Check out the list below with some examples of what to do on a culinary trip .

Activities in Food Tourism:

Take a street food tour;
Tasting of local dishes and beverages;
Follow regional product routes (e.g. travel on wine or coffee routes);
Eat at traditional restaurants;
Share meals with local people;
Participate in culinary events and festivals;
Visit local markets;
Learn about the production of food by visiting farms and artisan producers;
Participate in cooking classes;
Visit exhibitions that explain the history of local cuisine;
Culinary expeditions with chefs and specialists.

If you want to understand each of these activities in detail, we have written another article that explains the main activities of food tourism .

participate in a cooking class during a culinary trip is considered part of Food Travel

How to Food Travel

You can choose between an immersive food trip, where the entire itinerary is centred on the culinary experiences of the destination, or just include some food tourism activities to complement your itinerary .

But, regardless of your travel style, there is a secret to unlock the full potential of food tourism: Curiosity!

Try to understand not only what people eat, but why they eat in one way or another, what are the local ingredients, what is the story behind the food they prepare. Ask, interact, taste and smile.

How to Plan a Culinary Trip

You can plan a culinary trip independently or through agencies. And whatever your choice is, Food’n Road will help you .

To begin with, get inspired by our Food and Travel blog and explore food destinations with guides and content from each country.

After choosing the destination of your next trip, we suggest two paths :

If you want to plan your itinerary independently, visit our marketplace to find and book experiences , we handpick the best food tourism activities and tours from around the world .

Now, if you want a true gastronomic journey adapted to your taste, we suggest our Food Travel Design service to make a completely customized itinerary for you .

It makes a difference to go beyond the plate

On a culinary trip, you end up learning a lot about the local culture and the best, directly with the residents, exchanging information, trying new flavours and having fun.

During our travels, something that always strikes us is to notice the similarities between the cuisine of distant countries and how the same ingredients are used in such different ways.

For example, have you ever wondered how important the chilli pepper is for Asian cuisine even though it is a native ingredient from the Americas? With each trip, a new discovery!

driving to taste the sugar palm fruit during a culinary trip amid food travels

Food Travel is much more than travelling to eat

We can learn a lot on a trip like this, meet people with different realities from the ones we live in, see other lifestyles, and encourage the preservation of heritage and traditions .

By sharing the table with local people, listening to their stories and talking about typical dishes, you will feel part of the place and will appreciate aspects that were previously unknown.

On your next trip, try to learn about the destination by exploring the local cuisine and I am sure you will never forget this experience.

Count on Food’n Road to plan your next culinary journey and have a nice trip!

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Alaskan king crab beignets with aioli at Kenai's Tutka Bay Lodge in Alaska

Kenai's Tutka Bay Lodge serves beignets of king crab with aioli sauce.

15 Food Tours Worth the Travel

Treat your taste buds to a global tour of flavors with these food itineraries. The only prerequisite: a healthy appetite.

Craft Beer Calling in Asheville, North Carolina

Combine mineral-rich mountain water and a cool-kid community hopped up on the latest in artisanal suds, and you have craft beer mecca Asheville. With more than 25 breweries, this mountain town makes finding a favorite ale daunting. Guide Cliff Mori leads beer enthusiasts on walking tours of the small-batch brewers in the downtown South Slope area. Come thirsty: You’ll try seven to 10 beers, from IPAs to barrel-aged sour beers. “Brewery Tours of Asheville,” Brew-Ed , 2 hours $37, or 3 hours $50.

Sashimi and You in Japan

Ask worldly chefs to name their favorite food city, and the answer always seems to be Tokyo. Japan’s capital bookends this private food-centric odyssey that includes sake tastings in the old town of Takayama, picking tea leaves in Kyoto Prefecture, and a crash course in ramen prep in Osaka. “Japanese Culinary Exploration,” Global Basecamps , 14 days, $9,378.

Cuisine Revolution in Cuba

Cuba has been forging new culinary paths and celebrating its traditional foods as it opens its doors to the wider world. This gastronomic survey of the island samples the Cuban-Mediterranean fare at Atelier, a paladar , or privately owned restaurant, in Havana’s Vedado neighborhood, and such plates as seafood-papaya lasagna at the paladar La Guarida. Work up an appetite between bites by learning salsa moves from a local pro and how to make the perfect daiquiri with a bartender from the famed El Floridita. A bonus: Your ride is a ’57 Chevy. “Cuba Culinary Tour,” Access Trips , 8 days, starting at $3,590.

Say Cheese—and Chocolate in Switzerland

Travel from the 800-year-old lakeside town of Lucerne to the ski resort of Zermatt for an immersion in Alpine culture and cuisine, including a visit to Maison Cailler, the home of Switzerland’s oldest milk chocolate brand; a tour of the walled medieval cheese village of Gruyères; and a raclette tasting at the 16th-century Château de Villa, east of Geneva in the canton of Valais. “Cheese, Chocolate, and the Scenic Alps,” Alpenwild , 9 days, $3,795.

fresh mint tea being poured in Fes, Morocco

Mint tea is poured from on high in Fes, Morocco, to form a surface foam.

a woman walking through the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail in Meknès, Morocco

Tilework decorates the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail, in nearby Meknès, a town known for its wineries.

Fiesta Fare in Oaxaca, Mexico

Chef Susana Trilling shows off the flavorful heritage of Oaxaca, her adopted home, by guiding cultural tours and leading classes in everything from making queso to mastering mole sauces. Her seven-day “Dia de Muertos” course combines culinary lessons with field trips to learn about Day of the Dead customs. “Dia de Muertos Course,” Seasons of My Heart , 7 days, $2,300.

Backcountry Bounty in Kenai Peninsula, Alaska

Alaska’s Kenai Peninsula is the land of king salmon, Kachemak Bay oysters, and a wide variety of wild edibles, from berries to mushrooms to seaweed. Visit a bivalve farm, forage in a forest of Sitka spruce trees, and learn to cook such local dishes as salmon bacon in rhubarb lacquer with chef Kirsten Dixon of the Tutka Bay Lodge, a National Geographic Unique Lodge of the World. “Tutka Bay Lodge Culinary Retreat,” Within the Wild , 4 days, $2,185.

Curry in Context in India

Spectacular sites such as the Taj Mahal combine with flavor-packed dishes on this “real food adventure” that has you sampling parathas (flatbreads), chaatsnacks , and Goan fish curry; preparing a traditional meal in Udaipur; and visiting a spice farm in Goa. “Real Food Adventure: India,” Intrepid Travel , 15 days, from $2,170.

Tomato Queen in Sicily, Italy

The Anna Tasca Lanza cooking school, based in a farmstead east of Palermo, has been teaching the finer points of Sicilian cooking for more than 25 years. Fabrizia Lanza offers a workshop around that Italian kitchen staple, tomato paste. Breaks from canning include jaunts to a local cheesemaker and a coffee roaster. “Preserving August,” Anna Tasca Lanza Sicilian Cooking Experience , 6 days, $2,500.

a food vendor in Hoi An, Vietnam, with an array of tropical fruits

Sidewalk fare in Hoi An, Vietnam, includes an array of tropical fruits.

Chilling With Master Chefs in Chile

Lauded in the food world as the latest star in South America’s culinary constellation, Chile finally is getting the love it deserves. Find out what the fuss is about on one of a series of tours inspired by the television series MasterChef . Browse the Central Market in the capital city, Santiago, where you can try conger eel chowder that inspired Pablo Neruda’s ode to caldillo de congrio ; sip Carménère wine in the cowboy country of the Colchagua Valley; and cook lunch with Chilean food ambassador Pilar Rodriguez. “Chilean Wine and Cuisine: Inspired by MasterChef,” Cox & Kings , 9 days, $4,995.

Medina Dining in Fes, Morocco

Your base is a traditional riad (courtyard residence) in the old quarter of Fes, Morocco’s cultural heart. From here, explore Roman ruins and the Berber town of Azrou when not cooking North African classics such as tagine , couscous, and zaalouk , a dip made with eggplants and tomatoes. “A Feast for the Senses in Morocco,” International Kitchen , 7 days, $2,550.

Toasting the Caucasus in Georgia

With its ancient winemaking culture and hearty cuisine anchored by khachapuri (cheese-stuffed bread) and khinkali (brothy meat dumplings), the republic of Georgia has been wooing visitors to the Caucasus Mountains. This itinerary explores four regions of the country, including the wine country of Kakheti, where ceramists make qvevri, the huge earthenware vessels used to ferment wines. “A Taste of Georgia: Wine, Cuisine & Culture,” MIR Corporation , 12 days, $4,795.

White Rose shrimp dumplings, a Hoi An specialty

"White rose" shrimp dumplings are a Hoi An special.

The Ways of Wonton in Hong Kong

Traveler contributor Daisann McLane designs private food tours (three people max) that reveal the culinary nuances of such culturally vibrant Hong Kong neighborhoods as Wan Chai, Sheung Wan, and Sham Shui Po. Tastes run from egg custard tarts to pork and dim sum. Little Adventures in Hong Kong , 4 hours, $115.

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Where Great Flavors Converge in Croatia, Slovenia, and Italy

A series of treks from Zagreb, Croatia, to Venice, Italy, traverses one of the richest culinary corners of Europe. Highlights include the Istrian Peninsula, known for its olive oil and truffles, and the Collio wine country that straddles the hills of Slovenia and Italy, famous for its bottles of big reds. Also on the itinerary: day-trips to the Škocjan Caves, a World Heritage site, and Slovenia’s capital of cool, Ljubljana. “Istria to Venice: A Culinary Route,” Mountain Travel Sobek , 9 days, $4,595.

To Market to Market in Hoi An, Vietnam

Hoi An, a town on Vietnam’s central coast, is considered one of the country’s food hubs. Learn why on a guided walk through the Tan An markets, meeting vendors and tasting dau hu , a warm tofu custard served with ginger syrup, and sinh to trai cay , a shake made with fruit, condensed milk, and ice. “The Original Taste of Hoi An Food Tour,” Taste of Hoi An , 4 hours, $65.

Bikes and Bottles in Western Cape, South Africa

This cycling tour of the wine country outside Cape Town routes you to producers in Robertson Valley and the Stellenbosch region, such as Kanonkop, known for its Pinotage. Also on offer: a visit to the Klipdrift brandy distillery and a whale-watching excursion. “Cycling South Africa’s Winelands: The Cape’s Boutique Producers,” Immersion Journeys , 7 days, from $3,295.

Charleston-based Margaret Loftus is a frequent writer and contributing editor for National Geographic Travel. Follow her on twitter @pegloftus .

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Why I Travel for Food And So Should You

Written By: Laura Lynch

Travel Tips

Updated On: December 27, 2022

Culinary travel has grown rapidly in popularity recently and I've jumped wholeheartedly on the bandwagon. Have you? Here's why you should travel for food.

Culinary travel has grown rapidly in popularity in recent years and I’ve jumped wholeheartedly on the bandwagon. Have you?

I’ve always loved food. At home, I do the things that every foodie does. I cook elaborate five-course meals for our friends, I watch Top Chef and dream of another life in which I might have become a chef, and I regularly attend food and wine festivals.

However, it wasn’t until about five years ago that I took my eating habit on the road. Until then, I had no idea the limitless benefits I would gain from traveling for food. I can assure you, now that this very important lesson has been learned, no matter where our adventures take us, food is a central part of the trip.

Table of Contents

Why Travel for Food

As I said, it was about five years ago – coincidentally around the time my husband and I started traveling together – when I finally combined my love for travel and food. We were becoming interested in wine tourism and we’d heard good things about the Stellenbosch region of South Africa.

1. Food Travel Awakens the Senses

You’re wondering how food can be powerful, right? It’s simple. Eating utilizes all five senses. Not only do we taste our food, we also touch it, smell it, devour it with our eyes and listen to it sizzle in the pan. We’re in a heightened state of being whenever we interact with food, so it stands to reason that intentionally experiencing food while you’re traveling will increase the intensity of the memories you build.

2. Food Takes you Back to Your Travels

Have you ever noticed how even the faint aroma of something you ate on a vacation instantly takes you back to the moment 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 my husband – “big corn”, as I call it, elicits an unreasonable amount of excitement from me.

3. Food is Powerful

You see, food is powerful. It has the ability to shape your journey and define your memories. Food is also an essential part of life and community. It’s what makes us who we are as a people.

Without it there is no authentic travel experience. It’s the times we congregate around a dinner table with newly formed friends, get invited to lunch with a local family or take time for a picnic in a vineyard that we remember the most.

Not necessarily because of the food itself – although if it’s good that’s an added bonus – but because those are the moments when the best memories are made.

4. Good Food is Worth It

I read a lot of blog posts and travel articles about how to save money on food while traveling and how to avoid street food so as not to get sick. It makes me sad to think of all the amazing things I would have missed out on in a country if I had taken that advice.

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?

I’m exaggerating a little, but you get the point.

5. Food Becomes a Part of Travel, Even When You Least Expect It

We do still take trips that have no immediately apparent food focus – like to Turkey – where we went because we wanted to check out Istanbul and the fairy chimneys of Cappadocia . But even those trips ended up expanding our global palette and introducing us to things we would never have experienced without the power of food.

We went on one of our favorite food tours in Istanbul , and even did some wine tasting in ancient wine caves in Cappadocia.

6. All Food is Amazing

Indulging in Michelin-starred restaurants, veering off the beaten path to where they make the best-fried noodles, immersing yourself in an authentic cooking school in Tuscany, or even accepting a dare to eat a deep-fried cricket from a market in Cambodia – these are the things vibrant memories are made of. And if you don’t seek out food, you’ll miss out on an entire aspect of the journey.

Ever since that first trip to South Africa, we have been intentionally choosing destinations based on our desire to find new culinary hotspots. We choose destinations to expand our knowledge and appreciation for not only the history and architecture of a country but the food that the culture was built on. Doing so has had a great impact on our travels.

7. Wineries

While researching the area, we found that many of the wineries also had world-class restaurants and it became clear that we would be missing half the experience if we didn’t explore the burgeoning food scene. So we made reservations at top restaurants with wine-pairing menus, and experienced foods we’d never tried before, like wild game and ostrich.

We learned about popular grape varietals like Pinotage – the pillar of South Africa wine – and how today’s modern cuisine in South Africa developed with the influence of many different cultures. I came away from that trip with a new-found appreciation for the power of food.

South African Food

why you should travel for food - simit in Turkey

As is the case with many countries around the world, South African cuisine is a conglomeration of many different subcultures. If we only went to South Africa to see elephants (which are pretty fantastic – don’t get me wrong), we wouldn’t have learned so much about the vast and dynamic culture of the country through the food. Sure, we could have opened a textbook and read of the history that brought all of these cultures together, but then we wouldn’t have experienced it firsthand and taken home all of those priceless memories.

Food Makes Travel Better

Now that I’ve sufficiently plied you with drool-worthy photos of food from around the world, can’t we agree that intentionally adding food to your travels will greatly enrich your experience?

If you’re a foodie like me, just knowing that we aren’t limited to the restaurants and gourmet food markets of our own cities is reason enough for me to get excited about traveling. There’s a world full of incredible foods beckoning to be eaten and they are just a plane ride or road trip away.

And if you’re not a foodie — well, you still have to eat, right? So why not eat a little, learn a little and take home the leftovers?

What is your favorite food travel memory? Do you have a favorite country you like to travel to specifically for the food?

Polish Cuisine – 5 Foods You Must Try
Moroccan Cuisine – Foods to Try and How to Eat Them
10 Tasty Beer Cities to Sample the Perfect Brew
Top Brazilian Cuisine for Your Perfect Party
Ultimate Greek Food Guide – Traditional Dishes to Eat in Greece

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Book Your Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner. We have used them for years and have found that they have the best flight deals.

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor.

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO .

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

Safety Wing - Occasional Travelers.
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Book Your Activities: Looking for walking tours, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more? Then we recommend Get Your Guide.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

About Laura Lynch

Laura Lynch is the creator and writer of the travel blog, Savored Journeys , which is an exploration of food and wine around the world. She's an avid world traveler, having been to 44 countries, and lover of great food and wine. Connect with Laura on Twitter , Facebook , Pinterest , and Instagram .

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21 thoughts on “Why I Travel for Food And So Should You”

How wonderful that you mention how food adds to your traveling. I have never tried Greek food but I love a lot of flavor in my food and want to try it this week. I will find a traditional Greek restaurant close by to try.

Very Nice Article I love to travel and taste the all kind of food

Yes so true me also. I travel not only for food but yes , its the agenda. food of the area really represents the culture of the area.

Hey there, it’s a pleasure to meet with you. I also travel around the world and really like to taste different countries special dishes during my travel.

I love to travel and yes, one of the reason is that for food. I can see some turkish food here. I have wish to visit turkey to taste some of best turkish kabab!

I am just back from a trip to Rajasthan in India and to be honest this was my first trip focusing on food. This articles captures my emotions on so many levels and every single word of this is true. I would definitely make it a point to create more food based itineraries for myself in the future!

Gastrotours are so unique due to the diversity of the food types you will encounter in each place. The variety of food is as huge as there are people on this planet. Your food pictures above look very sumptuous and tasty. Great photography too.

nice article thanks for sharing.. visit http://bubblegumtours.com

Love this! I don’t know whether I do this with almost as much aim as you do however I don’t think you can truly encounter a spot without encountering the nourishment. Much obliged for sharing.

Nice article. Loved it. We are gourmets and first thing we do when we land at a place is to ask where the best restaurant in town and what is the local speciality! We love to travel to eat!

Yes i do like it.

To me food has always been a good reason to travel. Apart from the delicacy, food also talks hundred words about the culture and lifestyle of a destination. So food is a very important part of travel and destination experience. Thanks for this post

Food really is one of the authentic experiences for travelers. I would definitely recommend St. Lucian and Caribbean cuisine with its European, Indian, African and Amerindian influences. Fresh seafood and delicious meats are prepared with culinary flair. Great food is available for all budgets from small roadside diners to fine dining establishments.

Food has always been a part of my travel experiences. I sometimes joke that I am going to eat my way around this city or that country. I always like to mingle with the locals and experience their culture. That would include their foods. I enjoy many types of food and find traveling as a great way to experience them. Sometimes, I remember a place that I visited by the food that I had there. Paris is one of my favorites for enjoying good food. They appreciate it when you enjoy and compliment them for their food. I particularly have a favorite place there which only serves souffles. I go there every time that I am visiting Paris.

Great photos! Many of my travel memories go hand in hand with the food experiences I’ve had! It’s so hard to choose a favorite experience… But one that comes to mind is a dinner in Barcelona. We were renting an apartment and the owner sent his mother-in-law over to cook a traditional Spanish meal for us. Not just the amazing food (I’m talking sneaking-to-the-fridge-in-the-middle-of-the-night amazing!), but the whole experience of watching her prepare and trying to communicate in our broken spanish/english conversation about the ingredients she used was an incredible experience and is an unforgettable memory!

Food has never been the reason for my travels but I hardly miss out tasting the traditional food of the country or city I visit… who doesn’t love tasting a new food!!

I have an insane love for Korean dishes! My father was stationed in South Korea back in the 80s and while there learned how to make bulgogi (korean bbq). So every time I eat that dish it reminds me of him. In my mind’s eye, I can see him in the kitchen, preparing it and my siblings and I salivating because it would fill the house with the delicious smells of things to come. Yummy! My dream is to one day visit South Korea and get in as many foodie experiences as I possibly can.

I LOVE THIS! I PREACH THIS! When I first got to Cambodia I was with a group of people and one of the guys in the group refused to eat from street vendors and refused to eat anything other than fried rice because he didn’t know what was in stuff. I was always the one poking around the alleys trying to find the REALLY good spots to eat. You know the kind.

I also travel with Celiac Disease and allergies to eggs and nuts. Even if I didn’t care about food I would still have to care about the food that I’m putting into my mouth. I’ve chosen to embrace it and now love to find out about cooking processes, ingredients and the stories behind dishes.

Thailand is tummy soul mate. I dream about the curries, the glass noodle salads, the mango sticky rice! If I’m flying anywhere in the same hemisphere as Thailand I always book a week somewhere delectable. Thanks for the words!

Great advice. Food is such an important part of any culture, that traveling for food is a great idea. I try to do a food walking tour or a cooking class whenever I get the chance to on my travels.

Love this! I don’t know if I do this with nearly as much intent as you do but I don’t think you can really experience a place without experiencing the food. Thanks for sharing.

Thanks for including my post on your site, Dave & Deb. I’m excited to share my love for food and travel with your readers. I agree wholeheartedly that Spain is at the forefront of food tourism. They have such incredible food and wine.

50 Food and Travel Quotes That Speak to a Foodie Traveler’s Soul

Looking for food and travel quotes that make your heart and stomach flutter? These food trip quotes will speak to your foodie traveler’s soul.

Food and travel quotes serve as a delicious reminder of the adventures that await us around the globe. They inspire us to dive into new cuisines, immerse ourselves in the local food scene, and appreciate the universal language of food that connects us all.

Consider this: dining out or visiting a farmers market is more than a mere activity—it explores global cultures and tastes. A drunken fish taco transports you to Mazatlán, Mexico , or a slice of Key Lime Pie evokes memories of Key West . From the invention of the cheeseburger in Pasadena, California , to the iconic beignets of New Orleans , every dish has a story of origin and discovery.

Even if it’s just for a few minutes, a journey of a thousand miles begins with a single bite. It’s what makes a Tasty Itinerary.

featured image with text | food and travel quotes

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning we earn a commission at no extra cost. Please refer to our full disclosure for details.

Below, we share some travel and food quotes from famous authors, renowned chefs, and travelers to celebrate this amazing combination of foodie travel. These food trip quotes will make you want to book your next foodie trip.

Table of Contents

Food and Travel Quotes

1. “if i’m an advocate for anything, it’s to move. as far as you can, as much as you can. across the ocean or simply across the river. walk in someone else’s shoes or at least eat their food. it’s a plus for everybody.” – anthony bourdain.

Anthony Bourdain has some of the best and the most food and travel quotes in the world. His passion for exploring the world through food was infectious, and his words of wisdom will never be forgotten.

2. “People who love to eat are always the best people.” – Julia Child

3. “Food is not just eating energy. It’s an experience.” – Guy Fieri

We couldn’t agree more. Food isn’t just sustenance; it’s a chance to explore other cultures, and it gives us a connection to the world around us.

4. “One of the very nicest things about life is the way we must regularly stop whatever it is we are doing and devote our attention to eating.” – Luciano Pavarotti

5. “food is symbolic of love when words are inadequate.” – alan d. wolfelt, 6. “food brings people together on many different levels. it’s nourishment of the soul and body; it’s truly love.” – giada de laurentiis, 7. “give me books, french wine, fruit, fine weather and a little music played out of doors by somebody i do not know.” – john keats.

When you visit Europe and sit outside a piazza, whether on the steps of an old monument or a cafe, this food and travel quote comes to life.

8. “People don’t take trips… trips take people .” – John Steinbeck

9. “in both business and personal life, i’ve always found that travel inspires me more than anything else i do. evidence of the languages, cultures, scenery, food, and design sensibilities that i discover all over the world can be found in every piece of my jewelry.” – ivanka trump, 10. “it’s true: everything tastes best right out of the sea, the fields and the orchards.” – susan magsamen, 11. “a good restaurant is like a vacation; it transports you, and it becomes a lot more than just about the food.” – phil rosenthal.

The image displays the quote “A good restaurant is like a vacation; it transports you, and it becomes a lot more than just about the food.” - Phil Rosenthal. It has a minimalist style with bold, blocky elements like a stylized restaurant setting below the text, featuring a red table with a cloche, a glass of wine, and abstract art elements, all set against a dark background. The word "RESTAURANT" is emphasized in red at the bottom.

12. “We live life in restaurants, its the center of social life, where we celebrate with family and friends, make new friends, travel without traveling, and of course, eat.” – Phil Rosenthal

If you haven’t started watching Phil Rosenthal’s travel show Somebody Feed Phil on Netflix, you should. His enthusiasm for food and travel is contagious.

13. “Eat dessert first because life is uncertain.” – Arthur Murray

15. “i am not a great cook, i am not a great artist, but i love art, and i love food, so i am the perfect traveler.” – michael palin, 14. “people will travel anywhere for good food – it’s crazy.” – rene redzepi.

The image features a quote over a blurred backdrop of a canal in Venice and a slice of pizza with wine, reading “People will travel anywhere for good food - it's crazy.” by Rene Redzepi

We travel to eat. We will even wait in line for good food.

16. “We live life in restaurants, its the center of social life, where we celebrate with family and friends, make new friends, travel without traveling, and of course, eat.” – Phil Rosenthal

17. “there comes a moment on a journey when something sweet, something irresistible and charming as wine raised to thirsty lips, wells up in the traveler’s being.” – patrick macgill, 18. “in this life, you should read everything you can read. taste everything you can taste. meet everyone you can meet. travel everywhere you can travel. learn everything you can learn. experience everything you can experience.” – mario cuomo, 19. “with enough butter, anything is good.” – julia child.

Julia Child was definitely onto something with this food quote. There’s nothing like indulging in a delicious meal with some buttery goodness. Her love for Paris and French cuisine can’t go unnoticed.

20. “Travel is a new experience that can transport you out of your everyday routine to create memories with the ones you love.” – Brian Chesky

21. “travel is the spice of life.” – charley boorman, 22. “food makes travel so exceptional, because you get to taste what it’s actually supposed to taste like. to eat the real pad thai or finally have a proper curry is something pretty amazing.” – meghan markle, 23. “there is no sincerer love than the love of food.” – george bernard shaw.

The image features a quote "There is no sincerer love than the love of food." - George Bernard Shaw, with a heart graphic split into two colors, one side containing a fork and the other a spoon.

24. “I never subscribe to the stay-at-home policy. I’m not sick of the road or sick of eating in good restaurants around the country. I like to travel.” – Levon Helm

25. “one cannot think well, love well, sleep well, if one has not dined well.” – virginia woolf, 26. “you know, food is such – it’s a hug for people.” – rachel ray.

We could all use a hug right now, and what better way to get it than through food?

27. “You never know when some small thing will lead to a big idea. Travel is very inspirational – but it’s in the ordinary that I find my themes of love and work and family.” – Adriana Trigiani

28. “if you’re twenty-two, physically fit, hungry to learn and be better, i urge you to travel — as far and as widely as possible . sleep on floors if you have to. find out how other people live and eat and cook. learn from them — wherever you go.” – anthony bourdain, 29. “feed is learning.” – bee wilson, 30. “all sorrows are less with bread. ” – miguel de cervantes saavedra, 31. “food is a gift and should be treated reverentially–romanced and ritualized and seasoned with memory.” – chris bohjalian, secrets of eden, 32. “the best way to know a city is to eat it.” – scott westerfeld.

The image is a simple black and white illustration of a city skyline with the quote “The best way to know a city is to eat it.” - Scott Westerfeld. The hashtag #TRAVELANDFOOD is at the top.

This is one of those travel and food quotes that is simple but to the point. Trying out local dishes, experiencing new flavors, learning about its history, and meeting people along the way are all part of the adventure. So the next time you travel, don’t forget to eat your way through the city.

33. “There are precious few problems a good taco won’t solve.” – Steve Multer

34. “food is our common ground, a universal experience.” – james beard, 35. “going to a restaurant is one of my keenest pleasures. meeting someplace with old and new friends, ordering wine, eating food, surrounded by strangers, i think is the core of what it means to live a civilized life.” – adam gopnik, 36. “if you reject the food, ignore the customs, fear the religion and avoid the people, you might better stay home.” – james michener ., 37. “a hangover suggests a great night, jet lag suggests a great adventure.” – j.d. andrews., 38. “if love is the food of life, travel is the dessert.” – amanda jane sturges, 39. “food should be fun.” – thomas keller.

The image shows a lively dining scene with an overhead view of a table and people eating, paired with the quote “FOOD SHOULD BE FUN” by Thomas Keller, set against a dark background with yellow bokeh lights.

Food is fun. Eating is fun. Sharing it with a group of people is fun.

40. “LOVE: A word properly applied to our delight in particular kinds of food; sometimes metaphorically spoken of the favorite objects of all our appetites.” – Henry Fielding

41. “you can go anywhere in the world, and people’s faces light up when they put delicious food in their mouths.” – sandi toksvig.

graphic quote | “You can go anywhere in the world, and people's faces light up when they put delicious food in their mouths.” - Sandi Toksvig

42. “There is no conflict between a better meal and a better world.” – Rene Redzepi

43. “a great restaurant is one that just makes you feel like you’re not sure whether you went out or you came home and confuses you. if it can do both of those things at the same time, you’re hooked.” – danny meyer, 44. “travel is rich with learning opportunities, and the ultimate souvenir is a broader perspective.” – rick steves.

Rick Steves is one of the pioneers of travel. His advice is to explore, learn, and broaden your perspective.

45. “I take a cooking class everywhere I travel. I find it’s the best way to get to know a culture.” – Blake Lively

Cooking classes and food tours are always on the top of the list of travel experiences for foodies or anyone who wants to learn more about the local foods in the city or country they are visiting.

46. “Traveling is an experience, and you have to experience it as a whole.” – Zareen Khan

The image features a scenic bamboo forest path with two people walking away from the camera, dressed in traditional kimono. Overlaying the image is the quote, “Traveling is an experience, and you have to experience it as a WHOLE.” - Zareen Kha

47. “I just couldn’t live without other cultures’ cuisines.” – Henry Golding

48. “most of us have fond memories of food from our childhood. whether it was our mom’s homemade lasagna or a memorable chocolate birthday cake, food has a way of transporting us back to the past.” – homaro cantu, 49. “where you are is who you are. the further inside you the place moves, the more your identity is intertwined with it. never casual, the choice of place is the choice of something you crave.” – frances mayes, under the tuscan sun: at home in italy, 50. “great eats. great vacations.” – tasty itinerary.

BEFORE YOU GO, CHECK OUT THESE RELATED READS:

Why You Should Take a Food Tour When You Travel
Cruise Travel Quotes to Ignite Your Next Trip
Quotes About Italy That Will Spark Wanderlust

Meet Kathy Ava, a food, travel, and cruise writer based in Los Angeles/Pasadena, and the owner and main writer of Tasty Itinerary. With over 20 years of experience planning trips and logistics at her full-time job and for herself, she's become a pro at crafting unforgettable tasty itineraries. She's always on the hunt for delicious, fun travel destinations and cruise itineraries. She firmly believes that life is short and we must make the most of it, so always say yes to dessert.

The 10 Best Foodie Travel Destinations for Nature Lovers

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. All hosted affiliate links follow our editorial policies .

Last week a friend of mine said, “I don’t plan my vacations based on what to see anymore, but on what to eat.”

Once upon a time, most people’s world travel bucket lists were based largely on the iconic landmarks, museums, and nature/wildlife they wanted to see.

But nowadays, street food, markets, and cooking classes are also likely to be included in the decision-making process.

In truth, many countries have the potential of becoming foodie travel destinations. Countries like Italy, France , and China have long been known for their delicious cuisine.

Other destinations are more recently becoming increasingly popular for their food traditions, fueled in part by travelers’ desire to get as far off the beaten mass tourism track as possible.

Of course, food and nature go hand in hand: Enjoying fresh, locally sourced ingredients while surrounded by natural beauty has a different feeling than eating food shipped from thousands of miles away in a downtown restaurant.

More and more travelers also enjoy learning about food, visiting local farms, meeting local producers, and taking cooking classes.

Read on for our guide to 10 of our favorite travel destinations for foodies who love nature!

READ MORE: The 30+ Best Food Gifts From Around The World

BEST FOODIE TRAVEL DESTINATIONS GUIDE

Read more: traditional food around the world: 30 famous dishes you can make at home.

1. ALASKAN FOOD

America’s Last Frontier is definitely better known for its landscapes and animals than its cuisine. And with good reason: Each of Alaska’s National Parks is a stunning natural treasure.

So what about Alaskan food? Most people that haven’t visited the state have probably never thought of it.

But thanks to it northerly location and relatively pollution-free waters, Alaska is home to some of the world’s most excellent king crab, snow crab, and salmon.

Those Alaskan bears know a thing or two when it comes to good fish!

In Summer and Fall, the forests of Alaska become full of berries, which are great in pies, preserves, and ice creams.

If you have a stronger stomach, don’t miss a chance to try akutaq , a local specialty made with frozen berries mixed with whipped fat, fish, tundra greens and/or roots. Just what you need after a day of heavy hiking or kayaking.

2. ARGENTININA FOOD

There are many reasons to love Argentina , and its stunning landscapes and excellent food and wines are definitely among the most noteworthy.

The secret of Argentinian cuisine lies in its wild, unspoiled nature. The Argentina wine routes of Mendoza and Cafayate are so fertile because of the pure soil and water running from the nearby Andes.

That asado (barbecue) you’re having with your Malbec is so tasty because Argentinian cattle spend their days grazing in the endless fields in the central part of the country, not cooped up in a box!

When it comes to nature, the best place to visit in Argentina is definitely Patagonia . The jagged mountain peaks of El Chalten and Torres del Paine and the wild glaciers of Perito Moreno are some of the most spellbinding sights you’ll ever see.

When on a trip to Patagonia , make sure you enjoy a traditional barbecue. This usually includes a whole roasted cordero patagonico (free-range lamb) as well as a savory blend of herbs and spices to be enjoyed with roasted meats.

READ MORE: The 20 Best Places to Visit in South America

best vacation for foodies - Brazilian Food

3. BRAZILIAN FOOD

Brazil is the largest country in South America, occupying roughly half of the entire continent.

It’s home to an incredible array of ecosystems, from the Amazon Rainforest to the sand dunes of northeast Brazil, to the Mata Atlantica Rainforest in the south.

Next to the Amazon, Brazil’s Pantanal is arguably the best nature attraction in the country. It’s an immense tropical wetland located in the central part of the country, where it’s possible to spot alligators, macaws, and even jaguars.

Yet Pantanal cuisine is still relatively unknown outside Brazil.

Some recipes combine local ingredients with Brazilian flavors, like moqueca de pintado , a coconut stew from Bahia that’s made with freshwater fish rather than prawns.

Other preparations are borrowed from nearby countries, including sopa paraguaia , a kind of savory cornbread to be enjoyed with picanha , Brazil’s favorite cut of beef for the barbecue.

4. GREEK FOOD

When you ask people what they liked best about their trip to Greece, food is often one of the first things they’ll mention.

It comes as no surprise: In Greece , you’re likely to spend the best part of your days enjoying long, delicious meals, surrounded by whitewashed villages, cascading bougainvillea, and the turquoise colors of the Mediterranean.

But there’s a lot more to Greek cuisine than gyros, souvlaki and moussaka.

Most Greek meals start with a selection of mezedes , a series of dips and small plates that usually include taramasalata (a dip made with fish eggs), tzatziki (yogurt, garlic, and cucumber), and skordalia (a mouthwatering garlic potato dip).

Depending on where in Greece you are, this could be followed up by seafood specialties such as grilled fish or octopus , which are popular along the coast and in the Greek Islands .

If you can, don’t miss visiting Greece for special occasions like Orthodox Easter , when you can sample festive dishes such as stuffed roasted lamb.

5. INDIAN FOOD

The Indian subcontinent is so vast and diverse, it comes as no surprise that traditional food there varies dramatically.

From the fiery curries of Southern India to the Portuguese-inspired flavors of Goa and the delicious street food available all over the country, you’ll be hard pressed to have the same meal twice when traveling to India.

India is also the perfect foodie destination for vegetarians. About half of the Indian population is vegetarian. So even if you don’t consume meat, you won’t go hungry!

The Madhya Pradesh region is a great destination if you’re planning to enjoy Indian animals . This area is home to iconic Indian National Parks such as Kanha and Nagarhole, where Bengal tigers are frequently spotted.

Madhya Pradesh cuisine is influenced by the flavors of Rajasthan, with lots of kebabs and biryanis on offer, but also a good selection of vegetarian specialty dishes.

6. ITALIAN FOOD

Italy should require no introduction when it comes to cuisine. But you do need to travel to the country in order to understand that it’s not all about pasta and pizza.

Italy stretches over 700 miles from north to south, and its cuisine varies accordingly.

For instance, the flavors of South Tyrol (the northernmost region ) borrow heavily from the German /Austrian tradition , with lots of smoked pork and sauerkraut.

Whereas in Sicily the cuisine includes some Arabic influences: One of the best Sicilian dishes is cuscusu, a fish-based take on couscous.

Sicily is the ideal foodie travel destination for nature/wildlife lovers. Take in some of the region’s best known historical and natural sights, but also explore Sicilian street food and sweets in between your other adventures.

7. JAPANANESE FOOD

Regardless of where in the country you’re heading, eating out is likely to be a highlight of any visit to Japan .

From steaming bowls of ramen slurped in a Tokyo backstreet to a multi-course kaiseki feast in an upscale restaurant, Japan definitely doesn’t disappoint when it comes to food.

But if you ask Japanese people where to find the best food in the country, they will all give you the same response: Hokkaido.

Japan ’s northernmost island is one of the best places in the world where nature and food come together, creating unforgettable experiences.

Hokkaido is a place where bears roam free, where trees outnumber skyscrapers, and tradition and modernity still coexist like nowhere else in the country.

In terms of food, the island is well known for its fresh, delicious seafood, and there’s no better place to enjoy it than Hokkaido’s famous fish markets.

READ MORE: 50 Ways to Celebrate New Year Traditions Around the World

8. PERUIVAN FOOD

Peru is considered one of the new kids on the block when it comes to foodie travel destinations. A decade ago, most people visited for the Inca ruins, mountains and jungles.

But nowadays Lima’s swankiest restaurants need to be booked months in advance, and many travelers look forward to sampling chicha morada as much as they look forward to their first glimpse of Machu Picchu.

There are three main geographical regions in Peru– the costa (coast), sierra (highlands), and selva ( Amazon Rainforest )– each with unique landscapes and cuisine.

Exploring Northern Peru is the ideal way to get away from the crowds, visit little-known destinations like the Chaparri Nature Reserve, and see the remains of Peru’s earliest cultures.

It also provides a chance to enjoy coastal specialties like ceviche and refined Nikkei cuisine (a Japanese/South American fusion) in Lima.

Another great option is an Amazon Cruise, which includes the opportunity to enjoy local specialties like juane ( spiced rice, meat, egg, and olives wrapped in bijao leaves and boiled in clay pots) and grilled or fried piranha .

Some small ship cruises offer a chance to see Peruvian wildlife and meet the Ribereños (river-dwelling) people , where you’ll have an opportunity to learn about medicinal plants found in the rainforest and how they are used to treat ailments.

READ MORE: 25 of the World’s Biggest Waterfalls (By Continent)

best European food cities - Spanish seafood Fideua

9. SPAINISH FOOD

Where Greece has mezedes , Spain has tapas . This approach to small-plate dining is an ideal way to sample a large variety of dishes in just one sitting, preferably accompanied by a bottle of cava or vino tinto.

Each region in Spain is known for different dishes and specialties: Galicia in the northwest is famous for its seafood, whereas Salamanca is the capital of jamon , Spain’s delicious, air-cured ham.

However, the best destination to blend the pleasures of food and nature is probably Costa Brava. This stretch of coast between the French border and Barcelona is where the foothills of the Pyrenees meet the Mediterranean Sea.

Traditional local recipes include both meat and seafood, with specialties like fideua (a noodle version of paella) and canelons (pasta tubes filled with meat, vegetables or seafood, then in the oven).

The region is known for its fine dining tradition , with legendary restaurants like El Bulli and Celler de Can Roca. But even a simple village restaurant will usually offer excellent, hearty fare without breaking the bank.

READ MORE: 25 Tallest Mountains in the World By Continent (World Travel Bucket List)

best culinary destinations in the world - Northern Thailand Traditional Dish - Kao Soi

10. THAI FOOD

CNN declared Massaman Curry #1 among the world’s best dishes . They wrote, “‘The Land of Smiles’ isn’t just a marketing catch-line. It’s a result of being born in a land where the world’s most delicious food is sold on nearly every street corner.”

Delicious street food is simply a way of life in Thailand. Anywhere you go, you’ll find locals cooking and eating in the street.

Street vendors can be seen whipping up freshly-cooked noodle dishes such as the ubiquitous pad thai, fiery som tam papaya salad, sticky rice with mangoes, and a variety of other delicacies.

For something a little different from the usual Thai island-hopping adventure, head to the country’s northern region to hike in the national parks and visit hill tribes.

There you can taste scrumptious local dishes like kao soi, a blend of turmeric, chicken broth, coconut milk, and soy sauce topped with crunchy noodles. –by Margherita Ragg, courtesy Green Travel Media

BIO: Margherita Ragg is a freelance writer from Milan, Italy. She is passionate about wildlife, ecotourism , and outdoor adventure activities. She runs the popular nature and adventure travel blog The Crowded Planet with her husband Nick Burns, an Australian travel and wildlife photographer.

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We've been spotlighted in major media outlets such as the BBC, Chicago Tribune, Forbes, The Guardian, Lonely Planet, National Geographic, Travel Channel, Washington Post and others.

Owned by Bret Love (a veteran journalist/photographer) and Mary Gabbett (business manager/videographer), USA Today named us one of the world's Top 5 Travel Blogging Couples. We were also featured in the 2017 National Geographic book, Ultimate Journeys for Two, for which we contributed a chapter on our adventures in Rwanda. Other awards we've won include Best Feature from both the Caribbean Tourism Organization and the Magazine Association of the Southeast.

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The Greek Food Experience (Max 8 persons)

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More than just a food tour, rather travelling in a mindful way through food, storytelling & genuine conversation. Inspired by our love for the city, good food and meeting new people. On this most delicious tour, you will have the chance to try the BEST local food from the BEST vendors. Enjoy mouthwatering souvlaki, tasty & fresh homemade pies, delectable olives, PDO (Protected Designations of Origin) cheeses, Greek yoghurt, local cold meats, unique desserts and much more… let’s not spoil all of the fun! We will stroll through the streets of Athens City Center while visiting traditional Greek street food vendors; true Athenian icons, multi-generational family businesses, and new commendable food entrepreneurs. We truly believe that our curated experience is one of the best things to do on your first day in Athens. It’s a fantastic way to get your bearings, learn fun facts and stories about Greece & Athens and its culture, and to get recommendations and tips for your stay.

Ticket Options

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The Greek Food Experience (Max 8 persons): $98

Ticket Information

Mobile or paper ticket accepted
One per booking

What's Included

The kind & knowledgeable local guide sharing culinary, cultural & historical stories & anecdotes.
Groups of maximum 8 people
A friendly bunch of travelers from around the world!
All food & drink tastings (more than enough for lunch) Visit 8-10 locations & taste 10+ specialties)

What's not Included

Gratuities / Tips for our amazing tour guides, which is always greatly appreciated!

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Additional Info

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
You will get an orientation of the city of Athens, and plenty of tips from our local guide
This tour is suitable for vegetarians, but not for vegans or those who follow a gluten free diet. There is only one stop where there is no alternative to meat.
What to wear: Sunscreen, comfortable shoes & weather-appropriate clothing
What to bring: A bottle of water, your appetite, wanderlust and curiosity

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15 best foodie destinations in the usa.

From coast to coast, these cities offer the best cuisine in the country.

(iStockPhoto) |

What makes a great foodie destination?

(Getty Images) |

15. Pittsburgh

14. Asheville, North Carolina

13. Las Vegas

12. Philadelphia

Telescope overlooking the Seattle skyline.

11. Seattle

USA, South Carolina, Charleston, Church Street, St. Philip's Church

10. Charleston, South Carolina

(iStockphoto) |

7. Washington, District of Columbia

Foodie tour classic Chicago hot dog with french fries

5. San Francisco

4. Portland, Oregon

3. New Orleans

2. Los Angeles

USA, New York State, New York City, Aerial view of city with Freedom tower at night

Getty Images | Tetra images RF

1. New York City

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Food focused two week japan itinerary – 14 days of eating well.

We’ve taken several trips to Japan over the last decade, each time staying a bit longer and exploring a bit more than the last. I know many travelers don’t have the same flexibility in their schedules as we do. If you have the opportunity to spend two weeks in Japan, though, we want to ensure you eat well and drink well. Because Japan is one of the top culinary travel destinations in the world. In this post, I share our tips on how to plan a trip to Japan with a 14 day itinerary.

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

A 14 Day Trip To Japan For People Who Travel For Food

Most itineraries focus on the top Japan destinations, including Tokyo and Kyoto. There is always a focus on the “top things to see” and always includes plenty of visits to museums and temples. We include some of those activities in this guide.

But our real focus in this Japan travel blog is to focus on unique food experiences, those experiences that make Japan unique. This includes food tours , sake tastings, and plenty of recommendations on where and what to eat in Japan.

Another way this itinerary is different from others is that it goes beyond Tokyo and Kansai, which includes Kyoto and Osaka. Sure we include those cities as well. But our suggestions go a little bit beyond for a more authentic experience in Japan.

Osaka Food Guide – What To Eat In Osaka Japan

Only Have A Week In Japan? Check Out Our 7 Day Japan Itinerary

Help With Planning Your Japan Two Week Itinerary

Luggage : We used our Eagle Creek Load Warrior luggage for this trip. I always recommend packing light and if using the trains in Japan this is particularly important. Escalators and elevators are not readily available. And, most hotel rooms in Japan are pretty small. It can be hard to find space for large luggage! Even for a 2 week trip in Japan, it is possible to do laundry at least once or twice during your trip so it’s possible to pack light.

Rental cars : If you decide to rent a car in Japan, we recommend RentalCars.com . They compare prices at the top rental car companies to get you the best deal.

Rail Passes : Train travel is really efficient in Japan, particularly between our recommended cities. Check out the 14 Day Japan Rail Pass to help get you around. A rail pass must be purchased ahead of time before your arrival in Japan and is best purchased from Japan Rail Pass.

Eating at an izakaya in Kyoto

Best Japan Destinations For Food Travelers

Tokyo – Many travelers arrive or depart from Tokyo so it’s understandably on everyone’s itinerary. It’s a big city, with bright lights, and Japan to the extreme.

Osaka – The destination for food travelers in Japan. Known as Japan’s kitchen, Osaka is known for “kuidaore,” which essentially translates to eat until you drop or eat until you bankrupt yourself. This is why it’s one of our favorite cities.

Kyoto – The city of culture and temples, Kyoto is also one of the top sake producing regions in the country.

Wakayama – Just south of Osaka and Kyoto, Wakayama is often overlooked by travelers. It’s an easy addition to any Japan trip itinerary. It’s a destination with a focus on fresh fish and seafood, ramen, and Buddhist Monastery lodgings.

Kobe – The home of world-famous Kobe beef and easily visited as a day trip from Osaka or Kyoto.

Sapporo – The great white north of Japan and the city that is one of the snowiest in the world. It’s also home to its own unique cuisine unlike elsewhere in Japan.

Kyoto Food Tours – 7 Best Tours For Food And Drink Travelers

Visiting a sake brewery in Kyoto

Guided Tours Of Japan

We will provide tips on how to plan your own Japan 2 week itinerary, but I understand that Japan can be difficult to manage on your own. We have some recommendations for guided tours that included between 12 and 14 day itineraries.

Intrepid Travel offers a 12 day Real Food Adventure In Japan . It hits some of our favorite food cities in the Kansai region of Japan. That includes Osaka, Kyoto, and Kyosan in Wakayama. Along the way, travelers learn to make sushi , eat street food, and stay the night in a Buddhist monastery. These are all food experiences we’ve had in Japan and would totally recommend. We took an Intrepid Real Food Adventure in Morocco and learned a lot about the food culture. Learn more about Intrepid’s Japan tour .

As an alternative, G Adventures offers a small group tour for 14 days in Japan that departs from and returns to Tokyo. The Discover Japan Tour visits Tokyo, Kyoto, Hiroshima, and other interesting cities. There is more of a focus on culture and history than the Intrepid Tour but includes interesting food experiences. This includes visiting a sake brewery and dining in kaiseki cuisine in Kyoto. Learn more about the G Adventures Discover Japan Tour .

Finding The Best Ramen In Sapporo – Ramen Yokocho And More

Eating ramen in Sapporo in Winter

Tips For Traveling to Japan For The First Time

Planning a trip to Japan for the first time can be entirely intimidating. That’s why booking a group tour can help. But, there are ways to plan an independent journey as well. We have a few key tips for first-timers to help make things easier.

Picture Menus Are Your Friend

When it comes to selecting restaurants in most touristy cities, we always recommend avoiding places with picture menus. This advice goes out the door in Japan. Many restaurants have picture menus, for both travelers and locals. The picture menus are your friend.

Almost every place we ate in Japan included picture menus with English descriptions. A few did not. Where they didn’t we relied on Google Translate to take pictures of the menu or to do an instant translation. But, this only works when you are online.

Japan Travel Guide Pro Tip

We use KeepGo for international data. It’s an international sim card that works in over 120 countries without setting up service in each country you visit. It doesn’t make a difference what kind of mobile service you have at home. You just register the sim before leaving home. It works on arrival in Japan. We had 4G access in Japan with KeepGo .

Japan Is A Cash-Based Society

Cash is still king in Japan. We were able to charge some meals, but most of the time we paid cash. This is particularly true in smaller places. We used ATMs to withdraw cash as we went. ATMs are not as easily found as in other cities. Look for them in the convenience stores like 7-11, Lawson, or Family Mart.

Don’t Try To Fit Too Much Into Your Itinerary

Imagine someone trying to see all of the US in a two week trip, impossible, right? Japan may be a smaller country, but there is so much to see and do. Even within a single city, there are loads of great activities, neighborhoods to explore, and food to eat. Don’t rush it and don’t try to cram everything into a short amount of time.

Our recommendations in this post make a great first time in Japan itinerary. In two weeks you can experience a lot of Japan, but I wouldn’t recommend visiting more than 4 cities. The movement in between, even with high speed trains, can be exhausting.

Also, consider basing yourself in a city like Osaka and taking day trips to Kyoto, Koyasan, Nara, and Kobe, to see a lot without the constant checking-in and checking-out of hotels and packing and repacking. You can access each of these cities in less than an hour from Osaka.

Visiting Temples In Wakayama

Food And Drink Experiences In Japan

There are loads of interesting and unique things to do in Japan. Some of these experiences relate to food and drink and others focus on culture and history. This is a great place to start your own Japan trip planner for how to spend 2 weeks in Japan.

Visit a Robot Restaurant in Tokyo for one of the most unique dining experiences in the world
Exploring traditional local markets including Kuromon in Osaka and Nishiki Market in Kyoto
Tracking down the top street food in Dotonbori , Osaka’s food street
Book a food tour in Osaka or a Kyoto cooking class to learn more about Japanese food culture on a half-day or full-day tour
Eat some of the best Japanese sushi of your life, by visiting a conveyor belt sushi restaurant or a traditional sushi-ya
Track down the best bowl of ramen in one of the official or unofficial ramen streets.
Go Japanese craft beer bar hopping and learn about Japanese craft beer trends
Enjoy a kaiseki meal at a traditional Japanese ryokan
Spend the night at a Buddhist monastery and learn about shojin ryori, Buddhist vegetarian cuisine
Eat some of the best beef in the world – Kobe beef
Tour a Japanese sake brewery and learn how to order sake
Spend the evening at an izakaya, a Japanese tavern, toasting over local beer and whiskey highballs
Dine on Japanese giant crab and local seafood in the great white north of Japan
Tour the famous Sapporo Brewery and dine on Genghis Khan

Eating sushi at a market in Osaka

How To Spend 14 Days In Japan When You Love Food

If planning your own self-guided tour of Japan, here are our recommended destinations. With a full two weeks in Japan, you can see a lot. There are two primary options here. We recommend about a half dozen cities to visit. It’s possible to visit each of them, spending approximately two nights in each.

Or, I would recommend staying in only about three cities and doing day trips. For example, you can stay in Tokyo, Osaka, and Sapporo and manage to have all of the experiences mentioned in this post over two weeks.

For each city, I recommend some of the top attractions or experiences, with a focus on food and drink. I also provide recommendations on what and where to eat and some recommended hotels. There are also links to some of our other posts for more information on some of these activities and travel tips.

Day 1-3 Tokyo

Most people start or end their trip to Japan in Tokyo. We prefer the smaller cities for more unique experiences and recommend spending more time there. At least give yourself enough time in Tokyo to beat the jet lag .

Top Attractions In Tokyo

Definitely check out the Shibuya district, one of the most iconic neighborhoods in Tokyo. If you’ve seen photos of Tokyo with loads of people crossing at a major intersection with neon lights and skyscrapers in the background – that’s Shibuya. It’s supposedly the busiest pedestrian crosswalk in the world. Stop for a katsu curry at Katsuya or hit one of the ramen or soba shops.

At night, head to the Shinjuku district, perhaps for a little karaoke and nightlife. Shinjuku is where the neon lights explode at night. There’s theater, food, bars, and plenty of people watching.

There are also two well-known bar and restaurant alleys in Shinjuku that are must-visits: Golden Gai and Memory Lane. It’s almost like stepping back in time considering much of Tokyo is covered in high-rises. Within this area is also Harajuku. This is where young people like to show off their fashion and old people like me are left to wonder why.

For a bit of culture, visit the Imperia l Palace or at least wander the gardens. Or, check out the art museums and galleries in the Roppongi neighborhood. This is also where the Tokyo Tower can provide you with a birds-eye view of the city.

Tours And Tickets For Tokyo

There are a few tours and attractions that we recommend booking ahead of time. Grab tickets for the Tokyo Robot Restaurant , one of the most popular and unique attractions in Tokyo. To make the most of your time in Tokyo, book a food tour. This Japanese Food And Drink Tour includes a tour of the world-famous Tsukiji Fish Market.

Where To Eat In Tokyo

In Golden Gai and Memory Lane sniff out late-night ramen and plenty of yakitori bars. In addition to Golden Gai and Memory Lane, there are a few other areas where you are guaranteed to eat well in Tokyo. Be sure to add a visit to Ginza for Michelin Star dining, including some of the most famous sushi restaurants in the world. Look for monjayaki in the Tsukishima district for Tokyo’s answer to okonomiyaki.

Where To Stay In Tokyo

We stayed at the Sheraton Miyako during our visit to Tokyo, but there are other options as well depending on your budget.

Park Hyatt Tokyo : One of the most luxurious hotels in the city and known for its role in the movie Lost in Translation. Check for rates here .

Pullman Tokyo Tamachi : A contemporary option in the center of Tokyo with a sun terrace. Check for rates here .

Nine Hours Shinjuku : On more of a budget, or looking for a uniquely Japanese experience, this capsule hotel is the perfect option. It’s also in the nightlife center of the city. Check for rates here .

Day 4-5 Osaka

I’m amazed to see how many sample Japan two week itineraries skip Osaka altogether. Sure, it doesn’t have the same concentration of temples and palaces as Tokyo or Kyoto, but you can only see so many temples on a trip before you get “templed out.”

Osaka is one of the best cities to visit if you love food and drink! From Tokyo, use the JR Rail Pass to hop the Shinkansen high-speed train to Osaka, Japan’s kitchen.

Top Attractions In Osaka

All of the top main attractions in Osaka are located within the city center and are accessible by train. Take a walk through the gardens of Osaka Castle or catch the view from a boat tour of the Dotonbori Canal. Explore Kuromon Market for street eats and hit Dotonbori, Osaka’s famous food street at night. At night, just wander through one of the many shopping and eating districts, including Namba, and Shinsaibashi.

Tours And Tickets For Osaka

If you want to make the most of your time in Osaka and want to experience all the main sights, pick up the Osaka Amazing Pass. It offers free admission to loads of different sites including Osaka Castle, plus offers unlimited train and bus rides as well.

Osaka is also the perfect place to take a food tour or cooking class. See our recommendations for the Best Food Tours In Osaka .

Or book tickets for Gotta. Gotta is pure Japanese-style entertainment. It’s a Japanese musical review show, which tells the story of the Dotonbori area through food and legend. Buy tickets ahead of time here . They offer three shows a day, with the last show being at 3:00 pm. The show is only 40 minutes, so it’s not a big time commitment. It’s just something quirky and unique to do in Dotonbori.

Where And What To Eat In Osaka

Between traditional Japanese dishes and Osakan specialties, there is no shortage of foods to eat in Osaka. From street food to craft beer, the city has it all. One of our favorite things to do in Osaka is to visit Daruma for kushikatsu, which is fried stuff on a stick.

Start any day eating in Dotonbori, near the canal. Then head north down the Shinsaibashi shopping street. At the top, in the Chuo Ward and near the Honmachi subway station, there are loads of great, non-touristy restaurants. On another night, head south from Dotonbori into the Namba area for plenty of standing bars and yakitori spots.

Check out these posts for more details and where and what to eat and drink in Osaka.

Osaka Food Guide – What To Eat In Osaka Japan

Dotonbori Food Guide – 15+ Must-Eat Dishes In Dotonbori Osaka

Osaka Craft Beer Guide – Drinking The Best Craft Beer In Osaka

Where To Stay In Osaka

When we visit Osaka we tend to stay a while and normally rent an Airbnb apartment. We’ve also stayed at the Sheraton Miyako . Here are some other recommended hotels in Osaka. If short on time, we recommend staying near Namba or in an adjacent neighborhood so that you are centrally located to all of the best foods.

Swissotel Nankai Osaka : Luxury, 5-star hotel, with views over the city. It’s located above the Namba station making it super convenient. Check current rates here .

Hotel Nikko Osaka : The Hotel Nikko is located in the Shinsaibashi shopping area and near the pedestrian shopping arcade that leads to Dotonbori. We’ve stayed near this neighborhood before and there are some great bars and restaurants nearby. Check current rates here .

Hotel Ichiei : For a more ryokan style experience, Hotel Ichiei is also near Namba Station and offers tatami style rooms. Check current rates here .

How Many Days In Osaka – Pro Tip

This is a question we often get. For any of our recommended Japan destinations, it’s up to you how much time you spend in each city. People often overlook Osaka, though, in favor of Kyoto. Kyoto is famous for its temples. Osaka is famous for its food and nightlife. We recommend spending more time in Osaka than in Kyoto if you love eating. Or, base yourself in Osaka for five or seven nights and visit Kyoto, Kobe, and even Nara from there. See the sites but enjoy the Osaka nightlife .

Day 6 Koyasan, Wakayama

If you can fit an overnight into your 14 day itinerary that will offer a totally unique experience, this is it. The Kii Peninsula in Kansai includes Kyoto, Osaka, and Wakayama.

Across the Peninsula are a series of Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes, much like the Camino de Santiago in Spain. UNESCO recognized the region as a World Heritage Site. This makes Wakayama a perfect spot to spend the day hiking or exploring temples.

Wakayama is also a great destination for food travelers too. Koyosan is the center of Buddhism in Japan and is located within Wakayama. There are over 100 temples in Koyasan, about half of which provide temple lodging. One of the most interesting food experiences includes staying at a temple lodge in order to try their famous Buddhist Vegetarian Cuisine, known as Shojin Ryori.

Planning A Trip To Koyasan

You can train from either Osaka or Kyoto to Koyasan using the Japan Rail Pass. Once there, spend the afternoon exploring some of the famous temples. Also, take a walk through Okunoin, a famous Buddhis Cemetery. There are over 200,000 gravestones. It’s a beautiful and peaceful place to explore. (Please don’t take photos within the cemetery). There are a handful of restaurants that are known for vegetarian cuisine, which was even enough to fill Eric’s belly.

Spending The Night In Koyasan

Spending a night in the Mount Koya area is almost like an all-inclusive stay. Book at one of the temple lodgings. These are mostly simple places to stay for the night, normally with tatami-style rooms with futons on the ground. A shojin ryori vegetarian dinner is included. They do serve beer and sake, but we used it as a night to detox.

After dinner, head back to the temples to see them lit up at night. It’s quite peaceful. Then, it is time for bathing. Some of the temple lodges have private, western-style bathrooms. Others offer traditional Japanese bathing, which is sex separated, public, and nude. That alone is an experience.

It’s an early-to-bed experience. There is the option of observing a dawn ritual where the monks offer a service to practicing Buddhists. We stayed in a traditional lodge where we were the only foreigners. The entire proceeding was in a combination of Japanese and Sanskrit. As much as we didn’t understand a word, observing was fascinating.

Where To Stay In Koyasan

We recommend Jokiin , which offers all of the above experiences. They have a traditional Japanese public bath, but also offer some rooms with a private bath. All rooms are tatami-style, with futons on the floor. Book here .

Day 7-8 Kobe

Kobe City is located in the west end of central Japan. It’s a port town and hosts the 6th largest population in Japan. What most people know about Kobe is its namesake beef. It is also one of the top sake producers in the country as well. This makes it an interesting city to add to your two week itinerary.

Top Attractions In Kobe

Did you know that the Nada-Gogo, or the Five Regions of Nada, produces one-quarter of the sake in Japan. The Nada region includes Kobe, which makes Kobe the perfect place to learn about sake. They started producing sake in Nada over seven centuries ago. Try visiting the Kobe Shu-Shin-Kan Brewery, which is on the train line between Osaka and Kobe.

What To Eat In Kobe

Kobe beef is unique to Japan. The beef comes from a particular breed of cattle called Tajima-gyu. The cattle must be born and raised in the Hyogo Prefecture to be considered Kobe beef.

Eating Kobe beef in Japan is a bit of a ritual. Normally you sit at a counter and order the beef by weight and variety. The chef will often show it to you, sort of for approval, but really so that you can look and confirm the quality. The beef is cooked on a flat top grill, to rare or medium rare temperature. Organize your Kobe experience ahead of time, whether you stay in Kobe or visit as a day trip. Learn more here .

Where To Stay In Kobe

Check out the ANA Crown Plaza Kobe , which is part of the IHG hotel group. It’s close to the train station making it easy to explore the city and the surrounding area. Check rates here .

Eating Kitsune Udon In Kyoto

Day 8-10 Kyoto

One of the most popular cities for travelers to Japan, Kyoto is one of the best places to learn about Japanese culture. Kyoto means “capital city” because it once was the capital of Japan before it was moved to Tokyo. We tend to prefer the culinary scene in Osaka more, but there is still loads of good food in Kyoto.

Top Attractions In Kyoto

There are 17 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Kyoto alone. There are hundreds of Shinto Shrines, loads of Buddhist temples, and Japanese gardens. Check out the Imperial Palace , which is free for travelers to wander through and take in all of the splendor of an ancient way of life in Japan.

Gion is one of the most popular neighborhoods to visit. It’s known for its Geiko, or geisha, culture. It’s one of the most well-preserved parts of the city with ancient houses and adorable alleyways. It is also one of the most touristy parts of the city, so be prepared.

Fushimi Inari-taisha S hrine is another popular destination and is just a short ride from Kyoto Station by train. After visiting the temples continue a little further south to the Fushimi Sake District, the sake producing area of Kyoto. There is a brewery tour and plenty of shops selling sake and offering tastings. It makes a great afternoon out of the center of Kyoto.

Tours And Tickets For Kyoto

Looking for the perfect Japanese Instagrammable moment? Book a Kimono rental for a day and then head to the temples or the narrow alleys of Gion for photos. Book a rental here .

If you love sake and want to learn more about it, check out this Sake Brewery Tour and Tasting .

Or, book an evening Food Tour in Gion and Pontchoco . See all of our recommended Kyoto Food Tours here.

What To Eat And Drink In Kyoto

Kyoto is known for its kaiseki and Buddhist vegetarian cuisine. There is also a great ramen scene. For food travelers, there’s Nishiki Market and the surrounding neighborhoods and alleyways near Shoji Jori, the main shopping street.

At night, head to Pontocho Alley, which runs along the river, west of Gion, for some of the best restaurants in the city. For someone on a budget, check out Kyoto Ramen Alley, which is actually on the 10th floor of the Kyoto train station.

Check out these related posts :

Kyoto Food Guide – What To Eat In Kyoto

How To Find The Best Ramen In Kyoto

Where To Stay In Kyoto

Like Osaka, Kyoto is also pretty easy to travel around. We stayed at the Westin Miyako Kyoto , which is lovely, with views over the mountains and the city. We’ve also stayed at a very simple guest house near the Imperial Palace. Here are some other recommended hotels in Kyoto.

Luxury Hotel Sowaka : Located at the southern edge of Gion, this is the epitome of Japanese luxury, with well-appointed rooms in a ryokan style. Check the best rates here .

Park Hyatt Kyoto : For luxury accommodations of a more western standard, Park Hyatt Kyoto is one of the top hotels in the city. Check the best rates here .

Mimaru Kyoto Horikawarokkaku : A four-star hotel in the center of some of the best eating in Kyoto and close to the Nishiki Market. Check the best rates here .

Help With Transit

If Kyoto is your last destination, then it is possible to fly out of Kansai Airport. Kansai is actually closer to Osaka, but still easy to access by train from Kyoto. Or, you can book a limousine bus from Kyoto here .

Also, consider picking up a transit pass for Kyoto. This pass can be purchased for one or two days and can be used in both Kyoto and Osaka. Learn more here .

Day Trips From Osaka (Or Kyoto)

We are not huge fans of checking in and out of hotels every couple of days. It gets exhausting. It also gets in the way of our eating. One way to be more efficient when planning a Japan travel itinerary for 14 days is to pick either Osaka or Kyoto as a home base and to see several sites and cities.

For food travelers, we definitely recommend Osaka as a home base. You can take a day trip to Kyoto to visit Gion, Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine, and other spots all in one day. The fast train takes 14 minutes between the cities. The cheaper rapid train takes 24 minutes. Both are included in the Japan Rail Pass.

You can be back to Osaka in order to take advantage of the nightlife there. Accommodations in Osaka also tend to be less expensive.

Other Side Trips

Regardless of which city you base yourself in, you can spend four, five, or even six nights over a two week stay in Japan in either city and see a lot. Here are a few of the cities you can explore as a day trip from Osaka or Kyoto. If you don’t want to spend two nights in Kobe, it is also possible to do as a day trip from either Osaka or Kyoto.

Nara is located just between Osaka and Kyoto. There are a good number of ancient temples, but it is most known for the deer that roam the city. It’s also home to Tōdai-j, a Buddhist temple complex with one of the largest Buddha statues in Japan.

Another side trip is to Himeji Castle and then to Miyajima. Miyajima, or Itsukushima, is a famous temple located on an island in Hiroshima Bay. There is the famous Great Torii Gate, which is an orange gate surrounded by water.

suggested itinerary for japan including Hokkaido

Eating ramen in Sapporo in Hokkaido

Day 11-14 Sapporo

We just made our first trip to Sapporo and it was in the winter. Yes, it snowed. Even though we don’t like the cold, we loved our time in Sapporo and would definitely recommend adding to a 14 day Japan itinerary. Yes, you need to take a domestic flight there, but you can also book international flights from Sapporo to head home.

If heading to Sapporo in winter , be prepared for cold and snow. But that also means fun snow sports and skiing. The summers are warm, but not as hot as down south. The most important thing, the Hokkaido region is entirely unique within Japan and worth a visit.

Top Attractions In Sapporo

Many of the top things to do in Sapporo are located within the city center. This includes all of the best places to eat. It’s possible to walk to many of them. If heading a little further afield, the train is easily accessible. Just at the edge of the city is a town filled with onsen , the traditional Japanese hot springs. Learn more here .

Tours And Tickets For Sapporo

There are a couple of interesting activities for food travelers to Sapporo. First, check out the Sapporo Beer Factory and the Beer Garden. After a tour of the factory, enjoy a meal of the famous Genghis Khan in the garden. Learn more here . If looking to try Hokkaido’s world-famous crab, book a crab eating experience in Sapporo.

What To Eat And Drink In Sapporo

The main reason why we think Sapporo is worth a flight up north is that the food is so different and so great! Hokkaido is known for crab and other seafood. There are also a handful of dishes that are unique to the region. This includes ramen made with corn and butter, Genghis Khan, which is a lamb BBQ, and soup curry. Read more about all the great food in Sapporo here:

Sapporo Food Guide – What To Eat In Sapporo Japan

Finding The Best Ramen In Sapporo – Ramen Yokocho And More

Where To Stay In Sapporo

I recommend staying in the Susukino neighborhood of Sapporo. We stayed at the Mercure Sapporo in Susukino and couldn’t have been happier with our decision. The Mercure Sapporo is a 15-story contemporary high-rise hotel with French influences and is part of the Accor family of hotels.

The Mercure Sapporo is close to all of the best places to eat in Sapporo. It’s right in the heart of Susukino and only a few blocks away from ramen alley and Nijo Market. This was perfect for us, and really anyone who visits Sapporo. You can eat all of the best foods in Sapporo without traveling more than a few blocks from the hotel.

Hokkaido in winter

When Is The Best Time To Visit Japan

Japan is a year-round destination. Being a long country, there are a variety of climates. In the north, in Hokkaido, you have some of the top ski destinations in the winter. In the south, in Okinawa, there is a more tropical climate where it is warm in the winter.

This 14 day Japan itinerary focuses on Tokyo and the Kansai region, in the center of the country. But it also includes Hokkaido in the north. In the center of the country, expect warm summers and cold winters.

Top tourist sites in the summer can be crowded and hotels are more expensive. Winter is relatively mild, even when it snows. Tourist sites are less crowded and hotels are less expensive. The shoulder seasons of spring and fall are probably the best times to visit Japan, with one major exception. Cherry blossom season is in the spring, normally in April, and can be beautiful, but is considered the high season.

Winter In Japan

We’ve been to Japan twice when it was snowing and we don’t like the cold. But, it can be peaceful and beautiful visiting Japan in winter.

They do get some snow in the center of the country, but we’ve visited in Japan in both autumn and winter and found it warmer than expected for several days. The temperatures can change dramatically where it is warm one day and cold the next.

Hokkaido, in the north, has cooler summers but the snowiest winters in the world. If you love the cold and snow, definitely consider Hokkaido. If traveling to Japan in the winter, and you don’t like the snow, perhaps stay longer in the center of the country.

To better understand what it’s like to travel in Japan in the winter, check out these posts:

Top Things To Do In Sapporo In Winter

Getting To Japan

Many airlines fly directly to Japan. There are two airports in Tokyo. Narita is the largest but is farther from the city. Haneda is smaller, and closer to the city, but offers fewer international flights. Kansai Airport serves both Osaka and Kyoto. All of these airports are accessible by bus and train. Sapporo also has an international airport with plenty of flights.

There are two primary Japanese airlines that service these airports: ANA (All Nippon) and Japan Airlines (JAL). We’ve flown them both and they are reputable airlines. Other international airlines also service Japan.

Because train travel is so easy in Japan, it might help and it might save time, to fly into Tokyo and out of Kansai in Osaka or Sapporo in Hokkaido. This will help maximize your time on the ground, particularly if you are only limited to a two week trip.

Choosing An Airport In Japan Pro Tip

Sapporo only has one airport. Tokyo has two airports (NRT and HAN). The area around Osaka and Kyoto is also served by two airports (KIX and ITM). Just be sure to pay attention to which one you are booking. In each case, one is farther out from the city than the other. It’s most important when you are transferring back to the airport so you choose the right one. Trust us. We chose the wrong one in Osaka! Luckily we still made our flight in time.

How to Get Around in Japan

We’ve never rented a car in Japan. We’ve never found a reason to, particularly with this itinerary. There is so much to do, see, and eat within the cities or during day trips from the big cities.

Really, the best way to get around in Japan is by rail. Japan Rail offers a few different rail passes for either 7, 14, or 21 consecutive days. The rail pass is valid on all Japan Rail trains, including the high-speed trains (Shinkansen) between Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka.

The most important thing about the Japan Rail Pass is that you much be a resident of a country other than Japan. And you must purchase the rail pass before arriving in the country. They will actually mail you a rail pass so be sure to purchase it early.

If heading to Sapporo, it’s best to fly. Both ANA and JAL fly between Kansai near Osaka and Sapporo. It’s not all that expensive if you book ahead.

Learn more about Japanese food in our post about the Best Japanese Snacks To Try .

FAQs – PLANNING A JAPAN 14 DAY ITINERARY

This is a question we get about almost every destination. If you are American it is hard NOT to tip because it is so customary and even expected at restaurants and bars. Tipping is not customary in Japan. It can even actually be considered inconsiderate to leave a tip. It’s just better not to. In this case, it’s best to abide by the local culture and norms.

This is a hard question to answer because we understand a lot of people, particularly Americans, don’t have a lot of vacation time. Being able to spend a full two weeks in Japan gives you an opportunity to really experience the country. If you only have a week, see this post on how to make the most of your time.

It is no secret that Japan is an expensive country, but there are ways to spend money. It’s certainly possible to find accommodations is most cities for less than $100 a night. Meals can be expensive, but it is also possible to eat many meals for about $10-15 a person, even sushi! It is possible for two people to travel to Japan for between $100-150 a person and travel quite well.

Despite being a relatively small country, Japan is a highly diverse country. This makes it a year-round destination. In Winter, there’s skiing around Sapporo. Okinawa and the southern islands are great for a summer beach getaway. The Spring and Fall offer nature lovers stunning natural beauty.

Amber Hoffman

Amber Hoffman, food and travel writer behind With Husband In Tow, is a recovering attorney and professional eater, with a passion for finding new food and drink destinations. She lives with her husband, Eric, in Girona, Catalonia, Spain. Together over the last 20 years, they have traveled to over 70 countries. Amber is the author of the Food Traveler’s Guide to Emilia Romagna. She regularly lectures on social media marketing to travel professionals throughout Europe.

101 Road Trip Food Ideas: Best Fun and Healthy Snacks You’ll Love

Posted on Published: November 18, 2020 - Last updated: June 21, 2023

Who doesn’t love a good road trip? Better question: who doesn’t love a good road trip snack? Well here’s a mega list of road trip food ideas that you’ll want to pack along.

One of the worst things that can happen on a road trip is running out of food and dealing with a hangry family member. Don’t let that happen! Keep your ride peaceful with these road trip snack ideas!

This list of road trip snacks goes beyond gas station junk food and difficult-to-eat-on-the-go meals. The best road trip foods are convenient, satisfying and healthy (but also sometimes not!)

This post may contain affiliate links. For more info, see my disclosures .

On this mega list of 101 road trip food ideas, you’ll find:

Healthy road trip snacks, homemade road trip snacks.

High energy foods on the go

Road trip snacks for kids

Vegan road trip snacks, ideas for your sweet tooth, meals for road trips, packing tips and food containers.

Essential supplies you’ll need

Best road trip food

As someone who checks off bucket list locations and takes many road trips every year, I know my road trip food. 🙂 It’s important for food to be portable, easy to eat in the car and it needs to be able to travel well.

Some of the food ideas below you’ll want to prepare and package up at home before you hit the road. Be sure to pack a cooler to keep foods fresh as needed.

Note: stick around to the end of the list for the best packaging solutions and containers . Because it matters when packing food for a road trip!

You want something convenient and healthy, right? Well it’s just as easy to grab an apple for a long car ride as a bag of Doritos!

Now, before you head to the store to buy a bunch of fruit, make sure to think through them all. Like bananas…

Bananas are not a good option for road trips, as they get mushy. On my road trip to Moab, Utah, the bananas I packed split open and made a mess of my reusable grocery bag. So skip the bananas, okay?

Here’s the list of healthy road trip snacks

Sugar snap peas and ranch
Healthy granola (think savory seasoning, not sweet ingredients)
Popcorn (my favorite budget-friendly snack using this air popper )
Homemade trail mix
Carrots and ranch
Strawberries
Sugar-free, gluten free muffins
Veggie chips (store bought or homemade)
Blueberries
Basil, tomato and mozzarella salad
Rice cakes with nut butter
Cottage cheese and almonds
Pita chips and hummus
Healthy zucchini muffins
Yogurt with mix-ins (just watch the sugar content)

Next let’s dive into the things you can make – or bake – from home. My kiddos always ask for a few of these on every road trip. Their favorite on our way to Glacier National Park was # 20 below!

Rice crispy bars
Or their yummy cousin, fruity pebble bars
Other cereal bars – think Cheerios, Lucky Charms…the possibilities are endless!
Paleo, keto and Whole 30-friendly nut bars
Cheese quesadilla
Pretzel hugs (just don’t pack a bunch – they’re addicting!)
Ditch the flour with these black bean brownies
Sweet trail mix (DIY – just throw pantry staples together!)
‘Cookie’ protein balls
Almond bark with mix-ins
Spicy roasted cashews
Peach oatmeal muffins

High energy foods on-the-go

Sitting in the car can be B-O-R-I-N-G and an energetic snack can help to pick you up. Or if you’re driving an all-nighter like I did from Omaha, NE to Gulf Shores, AL , you’ll need some energy to get you through the long drive.

Here are some of my favorite high-energy snacks for the car:

Greek yogurt
Ham, chive and cream cheese pinwheels
String cheese
Cinnamon apple energy bites
Hard boiled eggs
Energy bars ( RX bars are my favorite for road trips and hiking snacks)
Salmon in a pouch
Favorite energy drink (as needed) for driving over night

Let’s focus for a minute on food for little ones. While most road trip food on this list can be given to kids, there’s just some foods that are naturally designed for kids.

Pro tip: make sure to give the kids healthy road trip snacks first. It’s way harder to get them to eat an orange after having a bunch of chocolate. Don’t ask me how I know. 😉

Just a quick note: many of these food are pre-packaged which isn’t the most eco-friendly way of traveling. However if you balance it with homemade and reusable packaging when possible , it lessens the environmental impact.

Kid-friendly road trip snacks:

On-the-go yogurt
Homemade double chocolate zucchini muffins (my kids go crazy over these!)
Kid-friendly trail mix
Suckers (or any long-lasting sucking candy)
Applesauce pouches
Pirate’s Booty
Fruit snacks (save money by buying them at a bulk bin grocery store)
Pepperoni slices and cheese cubes
Baby carrots
Juice boxes or pouches
Kid-friendly pinwheels
Fun cheeses, like Baby Bell or Laughing Cow
Raisins or cranberries
Healthy toddler mini muffins

Also make sure out check out the 15 Things to Pack on a Road Trip with Kids

If you’re more comfortable with the vegetarian or vegan diet, here are some great options for your next road trip. Many of these will need to be prepared or portioned out ahead of time. (See recommended containers below.)

Veggie chips (sweet potatoes, beets, parsnips, etc.)
Bell pepper slices and hummus
Celery and nut butter
Pumpkin cake pops
Cherry tomatoes with vegan ranch
Cinnamon apple chips
Cajun roasted chickpeas
Roasted pumpkin seeds
Vegan lemon blueberry muffins (homemade)
Chocolate-drizzled caramel popcorn

Okay there comes a point in the road trip where cravings take over. Some of my favorite food to take on a road trip are the special sweet treats. I just try not to pack too many!

Yogurt dipped pretzels
Puppy chow / muddy buddies
Chocolate covered almonds
Medjool dates
Scotcharoos
‘Crack’ popcorn (candy covered popcorn with sprinkles)
Homemade cookies
Candied almonds (make them in the crock pot before you leave to save money)
Gummy bears, or chocolate covered gummy bears
Your favorite candy bar (mini size bags are perfect for sharing)

It’s sometimes nice to plan stops for gas or stretching around mealtime. And eating out is nice and convenient when on the road!

But it can also really add up! If you’re on a budget trip , then eating out every meal isn’t always a great option.

Pro tip: make sure to pack items that you won’t mind eating cold or room temperature. I sometimes freeze snacks and to keep them longer and prolong ice in the cooler from melting.

One strategy my family uses for road trips is to pack food for the first meal in a cooler. We’ll stick other road trip snacks in there too, and if it’s a long road trip we’ll pack multiple meals.

Anyways, back to best meals for road trips:

Egg salad sandwich
Cranberry almond chicken salad wrap
Pre-portioned salads (homemade or store bought)
Peanut butter and jelly sandwich
Packaged tuna (not canned) and crackers
Fruit salad (misc. fruit with a splash of honey and lime)
Deli meat and cheese sandwiches
Chips and guacamole (buy the small portion guac so it doesn’t go bad)
Banana bread muffins for breakfast
Gluten free strawberry oatmeal bars
Milk, orange juice or iced coffee

More snacks to pack on-the-go

We’re almost there! Here are a few more ideas to add to your road trip food list:

Water (of course this needs to go with!)
Peanut butter filled pretzels
Store-bought breakfast bars
Mints or tic-tac’s (helps to pass the time)
Traditional chips
Sweet Tarts
Hot Tamales (my husband’s favorite!)
Yogurt covered raisins
Dried fruit
Jelly on rice crackers (use jelly packets for this)
Mini cheese and cracker sandwiches
Almond butter packets
Sunflower seeds (what gets me through overnight driving)

So now that you have a ton of ideas, let’s move onto packaging. Breaking foods up into convenient portion sizes ahead of time saves a lot of headache – not to mention mess – in a moving vehicle.

Here are my favorite packaging solutions that are convenient, eco-friendly and ultimately will save you money.

Coolers – my family usually travels with a small, collapsible cooler in an easy-to-reach spot in the car that’s filled with drinks and snacks. Then we put meals and back-up drinks in the large cooler in the back.

Collapsible containers – great for making meals ahead of time and takes up less space in your car.

Mini containers – perfect for dips, trail mix, salad dressings and kid portions. I love these mini containers for road trips! I’ll even use them for snacks that I buy while on the road.

Reusable water bottles – my whole family has reusable bottles that we use for water on road trips. We usually put filtered water in old milk jugs (that have been cleaned) to refill water bottles throughout the trip. These water bottles are perfect for hiking or beaches, too!

Portable silverware set – perfect for meals, yogurt and to eliminate the need for plastic utensils during drive-through’s.

More supplies for your car

Alright now that you have your food list and packaging solutions, it’s time for the extra supplies that may help on the road . These are items I pack that help with snacks and meal times.

Paper towels/napkins
Gallons of filtered water for refills
Wet wipes for sticky fingers
Anti-bacterial gel
Sharp knife for food prep (as needed)
Plastic bag for trash

Road trip food – that’s a wrap!

Well there you have it! 101 ideas for road trip food! With a huge variety of options, you’re bound to find some you can buy or make ahead for your upcoming trip.

Hope you have a great trip, stay safe and satisfied!

Check out these fun road trip destinations you’ll love: Perfect Colorado Itinerary: 22 Road Trip Stops You Need to See 16 Midwest Road Trips: Scenic Routes You Can’t Miss Miami to Key West Road Trip: 22 Awesome Activities You Need to Do Denver to Moab: 16 Gorgeous Stops Along the Way

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101 fun and healthy road trip snacks you'll love

Wednesday 12th of May 2021

These are great ideas, thanks! We are just doing a big road trip in a few weeks, so this is perfect timing! Thanks!

Welcome, Erin! Have a great time on your road trip!!

Tuesday 11th of May 2021

Wow great ideas! Love this list and so many options!

Thanks... it was a fun one to create!

Awesome list! I definitely saved on Pinterest for later 😊

Glad you got some inspiration from this list! :)

Sunday 22nd of November 2020

Wow! This is one epic list of the best road trip snacks! Love it!

Monday 23rd of November 2020

Thanks - glad you found it helpful!

These are such wonderful and creative suggestions! :) Need to bring some peach oatmeal muffins for my next road trip :)

Oh yes Jiayi! They're so good!!

1 PuppenHaus

2 Confectionery "la Maison"

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I spent 8 days in Panama and returned feeling like I visited 3 different countries. Here's why it's worth a trip.

I visited Panama for the first time and explored three different areas of the Latin American country.
From modern cities to luxury private islands, each place was drastically different.
By the time I left Panama, I felt like I had visited three entirely different countries.

I dodged designer dogs — like shih tzus and Pomeranians — in Panama City's Punta Pacifica neighborhood .

Dozens of skyscrapers surrounded me. Inside the complexes were ritzy condominiums home to Panama's wealthy elite. The neighborhood epitomized a city — a dense population, traffic, and tall buildings.

I'd be carted off to a completely new destination in less than a day. Boquete — still in Panama — was drastically different than Panama City.

A small rainforest town, Boquete is a place where few traffic lights exist, and American boomers have flocked for retirement . Instead of skyscrapers, I found lush mountains in every direction.

Fast forward another 48 hours, and I was transported to the coast of Chiriqui. Here, nothing reached for the sky. Instead, a flat ocean and sandy beaches met the horizon.

It was my first time in Panama, and in a matter of eight days, I felt like I had explored three completely different countries.

Panama is home to rainforests, cities, beaches, and a rich food scene

Nature lovers, beachgoers, luxury lodgers, partiers, families, retirees, adventurers, relaxers, foodies, city explorers, and history buffs can all find something to love in Panama.

In the country's capital, the Casco Viejo neighborhood resembles New Orleans's French Quarter. Its cobblestone streets, flower-filled windows, and historic squares ooze history. When the sun sets, jazz and salsa waft from nearby rooftop bars.

A short drive from Casco Viejo, you're in the modern neighborhood of Punta Pacifica , which has previously been called a "little Dubai" and the "Miami of Latin America." Here, shopping malls and designer clothes are within arm's reach.

Beyond the city's rich history, there's a rich food scene. Panama City is home to some of the world's best restaurants , like Maito , which placed sixth across Latin America's 50 Best Restaurants 2023 . Between shrimp wontons and kanpachi tartare, the three-course dinner at Maito was the best food I had during my week in Panama.

Outside the capital, Panama is home to diverse destinations offering a range of experiences.

I headed to the coast of Chiriqui, where I spent three nights at Isla Palenque, a five-star private island resort . The trip was the ideal balance of exploration and relaxation.

I spent one evening with the resort's lead naturalist guide. Together, we hiked into the jungle, where we discovered Panama's rich biodiversity, which includes jaguars, porcupines, hummingbirds, critters, and two thousand butterfly species. The next day on the island was spent snorkeling and relaxing on a private beach.

Beyond the country's 1,800 miles of coastline, Panama is home to 13 million acres of rainforest.

In Boquete, a small town in the heart of the country, I explored the rainforest and coffee plantations that fill the region. Here, I took in the cool 70-degree jungle weather, a refreshing break from Panama City's hot temperatures, and sipped on some of the world's most expensive coffee.

Between one plane ride within the country and a few longer drives, I had covered a range of environments and experiences, and there were plenty of destinations I didn't make it to.

Bocas del Toro, an hour's flight from Panama City and close to Costa Rica's border, is home to nine islands and offers another type of vacation. Accommodations range from party hostels to luxury overwater bungalows dotting the shores.

I also missed a trip to the San Blas Islands, an archipelago of 378 islands. They're home to Panama's Indigenous Kuna people, and locals told me I could expect pristine nature, white sandy beaches, and crystal clear waters.

My only criticism is that to explore all Panama has to offer, you'll have to hop on a plane ride or two. Thankfully, the country's flagship carrier, Copa Airlines , was cheap and painless.

While a week offered a range of experiences, I wondered what I could've covered if I had extended my stay by another week or two.

I left singing the praises of Panama

While I have found something to appreciate in every place I've visited, I didn't expect to find so much to love about Panama.

Beyond the country's diverse environments and rich food scene, the Panamains I spoke with were eager to share and showcase their love for their home.

I experienced just a bit of that and still dream about the destination months later.

If you enjoyed this story, be sure to follow Business Insider on Microsoft Start.

Side-by-side images of the author in Panama. Monica Humphries/Business Insider

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Busan International Food Life Fair 2024 | Busan Exhibition and Convention Center

International Food Life will showcase food products and provides the attendees with meeting opportunities with distributors and etc International Food Life will showcase food products and provides the attendees with meeting opportunities with distributors and etc. Information Source: Messe Korea Inc. | expotobi

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I've spent hundreds of hours on long-haul Amtrak rides. Here are my 10 best tips for first-time riders.

As a frequent train traveler , I've found ways to make my time in coach more enjoyable.
I always pack a cooler with delicious, high-quality foods so I don't have to rely on the café car.
Though I can't always choose my seat, I do my best to avoid noisy spots by the car doors.

I've been on over 25 long-haul train rides since I started working as a travel writer in 2015. I tend to take one or two train trips each year, traveling the US in quadrants and stopping in multiple cities along the way.

I've learned a lot since my first trip in an Amtrak train's coach section. Back then, I packed way more luggage than I needed — which is easy to do with Amtrak's lenient baggage allowance — yet failed to bring basic necessities , such as a blanket and a pillow.

Travelers who are new to long-haul train rides should learn from my mistakes and follow these tips and tricks.

You don't always get to choose where you sit in coach, so be prepared for all possibilities.

Some trains have reserved seating, but on every long-haul ride I've been on, a conductor has assigned my seat during the boarding process.

Since I can't always choose my own spot, I often miss out on the coveted window seat when the train is full. So, I'm always mentally prepared to sit anywhere when I board.

Traveling pairs usually get to sit together, which is a benefit, but solo travelers like me often sit next to a stranger.

The seats near the doors between cars are my least favorite. The doors open and close throughout the night as passengers and crew members walk through them. The area around them can be noisy, and I typically get a rough night's sleep when I'm there.

Definitely use noise-canceling headphones or earplugs if you're sitting in that area.

Keep your essential items in a bag that's easily accessible from your seat.

Since you'll either check your luggage or leave it in a stowaway compartment, put your most important items in a backpack you can keep at your seat.

Load the backpack with anything you'll need while traveling. Pack medications, a few bottles of water, wet wipes, a change of clothes, a sleeping mask, ear plugs, a toothbrush, a tube of toothpaste, and a book or deck of cards — entertainment for when the train doesn't have WiFi available.

There's usually plenty of legroom and space to store my backpack below the seat in front of me. Knowing my personal items are within reach makes me feel secure, and for extra security, I often wear a fanny pack filled with personal items while I'm sleeping.

Bring a portable charger so you don't have to rely on the train's outlets.

In order to be able to work on the move, I bring my laptop and charger, which I usually plug into the outlet by my seat.

I also bring a mini portable charger in case I'm in an aisle seat and don't want my charger crossing over the passenger by the window, who's closest to the outlet.

Pack pillows, blankets, and slippers that don't take up too much space.

I always bring my Tumi puffer jacket on long train rides since it converts into a neck pillow. It's perfect as a pillow for a daytime nap and as a blanket at bedtime.

I also bring an inflatable pillow and a small blanket. A full-sized pillow and blanket aren't worth lugging around, but the smaller options are ideal since many trains tend to run cool at night.

Wear something comfortable enough to sleep in on the train. I like to sport slip-on shoes so I can easily get them on for a middle-of-the-night restroom excursion.

Settle in for the ride and make sure you take in the passing views.

After you've boarded and have all your necessities on hand, the fun begins. Get settled and comfortable in your spacious seat, and let the rhythmic motion and clacking noises lull you to sleep as the train takes you to your destination.

Napping is my favorite pastime on trains, but I also spend hours watching different American landscapes fly past the windows.

Many train routes travel through areas where no other transportation is available, offering some of the country's most spectacular sights . So settle in and enjoy glimpses of the changing landscape throughout the journey.

Bring a cooler and stock it with plenty of food that you actually enjoy eating.

Although a succulent steak from the dining car is a treat, only passengers in private rooms have access to that part of the train.

The café car is an option for coach passengers, but if you aren't a fan of the food — or worse, you forget to bring cash and the credit-card machine goes down, which happened to me before — pack a cooler with tasty food options.

I tend to bring delicious foods on my train rides that I don't always eat at home. Some of my favorites are specialty cheeses, fresh fruits, nuts, prosciutto, olives, marinated artichokes, crackers, boiled eggs, and expensive chocolates as a treat. These items make a cold meal feel like an event.

I also pack a can of premade coffee to hold me over until I'm awake enough to wander to the café car in the morning.

I use a compact purse cooler from Costco that slides over my luggage handle. It has a lined cooler section and a separate compartment for utensils, plates, napkins, and condiment packets.

I freeze a water bottle to keep my food cold. I also bring plastic bags to dispose of leftovers and refill them with ice in the café car once my bottle defrosts.

Pick up fresh snacks and meals for your cooler when you make extended stops on the train.

If I'm getting off at stops along the route, I try to find a local farmers market where I can restock my cooler for the next leg of the journey. It's a fun way to bring local flavors with you on the train.

In Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, I bought fresh salads with broccoli and quinoa and an Amish soft pretzel. In Tuscaloosa, Alabama, I purchased raw cheese, figs, and boiled peanuts.

When you pack your cooler, be considerate of other passengers. Stinky foods can be bothersome, so go easy on the aged Roquefort and canned tuna.

Spend as much time as possible in the observation car.

I spend most of my days on the train in the observation car, which has a variety of comfortable seats and tables surrounded by windows.

The natural light, scenic views, and conversations with other passengers in this section of the train make time fly by.

Bring your laptop, a book, and some snacks to enjoy as you look out the windows. It's especially beautiful at sunset, so bring your camera.

Sleeping well in coach may be challenging, but it's not impossible.

You can get a pretty good night's sleep in coach if you know a few tricks.

I've found that an eye mask is imperative since the runner lights are on all night. If I'm in an aisle seat, they feel like they're shining directly in my eyes.

Some people use earplugs, but I prefer to listen to a meditation app before dozing off. The gentle noises and music block out sounds from the doors and surrounding conversations.

I recline my seat, extend the footrest, and put on my eye mask and headphones. The gentle motion of the train usually puts me to sleep within moments of closing my eyes.

Freshen up and change into new clothes in the train's dressing room.

Coach bathrooms are located on Superliners' lower level, but they feel way too small for me to comfortably change clothes.

It took a few trips for me to realize that there's a dressing room the width of the train car at the end of the hall of restrooms. The ones I've seen have a bathroom, a sink, a sitting room, and a mirror.

After spending the night asleep on the train, you'll be glad to have the extra space to brush your teeth and wash up.

This story was originally published on January 1, 2023, and most recently updated on August 30, 2024.

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21 Top Foodie Destinations Around the World

Why We Travel For Food And So Should You

Top Foodie Vacations Around the World

1. Mendoza, Argentina

Tours you may enjoy:

2. Paris, France

Tours you might enjoy:

3. Tuscany, Italy

4. San Sebastian, Spain

5. Bordeaux, France

6. New York City, New York, USA

7. Tokyo, Japan

8. Bangkok, Thailand

9. London, England

10. Melbourne, Australia

11. Stellenbosch, South Africa

12. Bologna, Italy

13. Mexico City, Mexico

14. Dotonbori, Osaka, Japan

15. Lima, Peru

16. New Orleans, Louisiana

17. Copenhagen, Denmark

18. Hong Kong

19. Istanbul, Turkey

20. Naples, Italy

21. Catalunya, Spain

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Food Travel: Best Tips for Planning a Food Trip

Food Culture and Culinary Traditions

Set Your Culinary Tourism Expectations

Plan Ahead for Dietary Requirements

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Food and Travel, an experience we never forget

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