a table filled with lots of different types of food

CULINARY TOURISM

DO SOMETHING DELICOUS

Culinary tourism includes activities like eating local dishes in places such as New Orleans for Creole food or Italy for pasta and pizza, taking cooking classes, visiting farms and markets, and going on food and drink tours. Examples range from attending major food festivals like Oktoberfest in Munich to unique experiences like communal dining events such as Paris's Le Dîner en Blanc.

Examples of Culinary Tourism Activities

  • TASTING LOCAL CUSINE

    Traveling to specific cities or regions to try authentic foods, such as eating paella in Spain, sushi in Japan, or street tacos in Mexico City.

  • TAKING CLASSES

    Participating in hands-on experiences like cooking or baking classes to learn how to make local dishes, such as pierogi in Poland or pasta in Italy.

  • GOING ON TOURS

    Joining organized food and beverage tours, such as brewery, winery, or street food tours, often led by locals who share insights into the local food culture.

  • VISITING MARKETS AND PRODUCERS

    Exploring local farmers' markets to buy fresh produce or visiting farms and specialty producers, like artisanal cheese makers, to learn about local ingredients.

  • ATTENDING FESTIVALS AND EVENTS

    Traveling for specific food and drink festivals, like the Melbourne Wine and Food Festival, Savour in Singapore, or the Bluff Oyster Festival in New Zealand.

  • EXPERIENCING SPECIALITY DINING

    Participating in unique dining experiences, such as the secret, location-reveal communal dining events like Le Dîner en Blanc in Paris.

  • EXPLORING BEVERAGE CULTURES

    Focusing specifically on wine, beer, or spirits through tasting sessions, distillery tours, or vineyard visits.

Top countries and regions

  • ITALY: Famous for regional and seasonal cuisine, from pasta in Florence to pizza in Naples.

  • JAPAN: Known for its refined and diverse culinary scene, including sushi, ramen, and elaborate multi-course meals.

  • PERU: Recognized globally for its innovative cuisine, with a focus on diverse local ingredients and culinary heritage.

  • THAILAND: A top-ranked culinary destination, celebrated for its street food and flavorful, spicy, and aromatic dishes like curries and stir-fries.

  • MEXICO: Offers a vast array of food, from ancient recipes to modern, creative dishes, particularly in cities like Mexico City.

  • FRANCE: A classic culinary destination, with each region offering a unique story through its food, from the pastries of Paris to the wine of Bordeaux.

  • SPAIN: Renowned for dishes like paella, tapas, and the innovative cuisine of regions like the Basque Country.

Notable cities

  • COPENHAGEN, DENMARK

    Known for a high-end food scene as well as fantastic street food markets.

  • LYON, FRANCE

    Often cited as a gastronomic capital of France, with traditional bistros and markets.

  • NEW ORLEANS, USA

    Famous for its unique Creole and Cajun cuisine, such as jambalaya and gumbo.

  • SAN SABASTIAN, SPAIN

    A major destination for pintxos (Basque tapas) and Michelin-starred restaurants.

  • BANGKOK, THAILAND

    A major hub for food tourism, especially known for its vibrant street food culture.

  • ISTANBUL, TURKEY

    Offers a rich history of diverse flavors, including kebabs, mezes, and sweets like baklava.

Unique experiences

  • INDIA: Experiencing a multi-course tasting menu at a historic haveli in Delhi, taking cooking classes in a chef's home in Indore, or enjoying fresh seafood in Kerala.

  • AREGENTINA: Savoring world-renowned steak and wine in Buenos Aires.

  • PORTUGAL: Exploring local markets and enjoying a variety of seafood dishes and pastéis de nata.

white and black abstract painting
white and black abstract painting