If you’re the kind of traveler who plans your itinerary around what you’re going to eat, you’re not alone. Food is one of the best ways to experience a culture. Instead of picking a destination and hoping for good meals, why not let your favorite foods guide your next trip?
Here are seven food-centric trips to consider, based on what you love to eat.
Best Trips for Wine & Cheese Lovers
If wine and cheese are your go-to indulgences, Europe offers some of the best destinations to satisfy your cravings. France is an obvious choice. You can spend time in Bordeaux or Burgundy for wine tastings, then head to Paris or Lyon to enjoy cheese shops with varieties you’ve never heard of before.
Italy also offers excellent wine and cheese experiences. Tuscany is famous for its reds and sheep’s milk pecorino cheese. In Piedmont, you’ll find Barolo wines paired with truffle-infused cheeses. If you want to venture outside of Western Europe, Georgia (the country) has a long winemaking tradition and local cheeses that are worth trying.
Tips: Look for guided vineyard tours that include cheese pairings and shop at local markets to taste regional specialties. Booking a cheese-tasting class can also help you learn about what you’re eating and drinking.
For People Who Live for Noodles
If you could happily eat noodles every day, Asia has plenty of options for you. Japan is a must-visit if you want to slurp ramen in Tokyo, soba in Nagano, or udon in Kagawa. Each region has its own style, broth, and toppings.
China also offers an incredible variety. You can try hand-pulled Lanzhou noodles, Sichuan dan dan noodles, or Cantonese wonton noodles. Vietnam’s pho and bun cha are also worth the trip if you prefer lighter flavors with fresh herbs.
Tips: Street food stalls often serve some of the most authentic noodles. If you’re unsure about what to order, don’t hesitate to watch what locals are eating and ask for the same. Many noodle shops specialize in just one type of noodle dish, which is usually a good sign.
For the Rice Obsessed
Rice is a staple in many cuisines around the world, and each region has its own unique spin. In Japan, you can try perfectly seasoned sushi rice or hearty donburi bowls. South Korea offers bibimbap, a rice bowl mixed with vegetables, egg, and chili paste.
For something different, visit India for biryani, a spiced rice dish that varies by region. Thailand’s fragrant jasmine rice accompanies many dishes, but you can also try sticky rice with mango for dessert. Even in Spain, rice lovers can enjoy paella in Valencia, where it originated.
Tips: Many rice dishes take hours to prepare, so be patient if you’re visiting a specialty restaurant. In markets, you can find regional rice varieties to bring home. Taking a cooking class is another great way to learn how these dishes come together.
Best Destinations for Pizza Fans
If pizza is what you dream about, Naples in Italy is the first place you should visit. This is the birthplace of pizza, and the Neapolitan version with a soft, chewy crust and simple toppings is hard to beat. Rome also offers its own styles, like pizza al taglio, which is sold by the slice and often has creative toppings.
New York City is another classic stop for pizza lovers, with thin-crust slices you can grab on nearly every corner. Chicago has its deep-dish pies, which are more like a casserole, and are worth trying at least once. If you’re looking for something new, try Detroit-style pizza with its crispy edges and thick crust.
Tips: Be prepared to wait at popular pizzerias, especially in Naples and New York. Many of the best spots don’t take reservations. It’s also worth trying a few different styles to find your favorite.
For Pastry Lovers
If you love baked goods and sweets, Europe is full of pastry destinations. France is famous for its croissants, éclairs, and mille-feuille. Paris bakeries take their craft seriously, so you can walk into almost any boulangerie and find something delicious.
Denmark is another excellent choice. Copenhagen’s bakeries offer buttery, flaky pastries like kanelsnegle (cinnamon rolls) and spandauer (cream-filled pastries). Austria’s Vienna is known for its elegant coffeehouse culture and sachertorte, a rich chocolate cake.
Tips: Go early in the morning for the freshest pastries. Many bakeries sell out of their most popular items by mid-morning. Taking a pastry tour or a baking class is also a fun way to learn more about local traditions.
For People Who Crave Tacos
If tacos are what you’re after, head to Mexico. Mexico City is a taco paradise, with street vendors offering everything from al pastor to barbacoa. Each region has its own specialties, so consider traveling to Oaxaca for its mole-based tacos or Baja California for fresh fish tacos.
Texas in the United States also has a vibrant taco scene, particularly in cities like Austin and San Antonio. You can find both traditional Mexican-style tacos and Tex-Mex versions with their own unique flavors.
Tips: In Mexico, it’s common to eat tacos standing at the vendor’s stall. Be sure to try the salsas, but taste them cautiously as they can be very spicy. If you have time, take a food tour to discover hidden taco spots you might miss on your own.
Best Trips for Spicy Food Lovers
If you can’t get enough heat in your food, several destinations cater to spice lovers. Thailand’s curries and salads often pack a punch, especially when you ask for them to be prepared “Thai spicy.” In India, dishes like vindaloo, chili chicken, and various curries offer plenty of heat balanced with flavor.
Sichuan Province in China is another must-visit for those who enjoy numbing and spicy flavors. The signature Sichuan peppercorn adds a unique tingling sensation to dishes like hot pot and mapo tofu. For a fiery Latin American option, head to Peru or Mexico, where chili peppers are an essential part of the cuisine.
Tips: Start slow if you’re not used to very spicy food. Many restaurants can adjust the heat level to your preference, but some places pride themselves on their fiery flavors. Having a cold drink or some bread nearby can help cool your mouth if it gets too intense.
Final Thoughts
Traveling for food is one of the most rewarding ways to experience a culture. You’ll not only satisfy your cravings but also learn about the history, traditions, and people behind the dishes. Whether you’re chasing the perfect bowl of noodles or sampling spicy street food, letting your taste buds lead the way can make your trip unforgettable.
Where will your appetite take you next?