Today, I’m sharing some brilliant travel destinations for foodies around the world. If you love exploring different cuisines and diving into local dishes, these ideas will have you mentally booking flights. I’ve also included a few must-see sights in each place, so you can build a trip that’s as delicious as it is memorable.
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Foodie Escapes with a Side of Adventure
Want this tailored to your pace (and your appetite)? I can plan this as a multi-stop itinerary or a single city break, and add experiences like market tours, cooking classes and day trips. You can also browse more ideas in my Travel Guides & Articles or start with Destinations.
Tokyo, Japan
Tokyo is a foodie paradise with a huge range of restaurants and street-food stalls. From sushi to ramen to tempura, there’s something for everyone here. Some of the must-try dishes include fluffy, savoury okonomiyaki, creamy matcha ice cream, and the brilliantly moreish takoyaki.
- Tsukiji Fish Market: famous for incredibly fresh seafood and sushi.
- Shibuya Crossing: the world’s busiest crossing and a great spot for people-watching.
- Senso-ji Temple: historic Asakusa temple surrounded by traditional shops and snacks.
Bangkok, Thailand
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Bangkok is known for its vibrant street-food scene, where you can find a variety of affordable and seriously tasty local dishes. Top picks include pad thai, tom yum goong, and mango sticky rice. Make time for Chatuchak Market too — it’s a proper feast for the senses.
- Wat Phra Kaew & the Grand Palace: Thailand’s most important temple complex.
- Chatuchak Weekend Market: thousands of stalls and endless snacks.
- Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn): beautiful riverside views and iconic architecture.
Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona is a culinary destination that shouldn’t be missed. The city is famous for tapas — small plates meant for sharing. Must-tries include patatas bravas, grilled octopus, croquettes, and (of course) a proper paella.
- La Sagrada Familia: Gaudí’s jaw-dropping basilica and stained glass.
- Park Güell: colourful mosaics, views, and pure Barcelona energy.
- La Rambla: lively strolls, markets and plenty of places to eat well.
Istanbul, Turkey
Istanbul is a melting pot of cultures, and the food reflects it. Expect everything from kebabs to mezze to proper Turkish coffee. Try lahmacun (thin Turkish “pizza”), a classic döner, and finish with Turkish delight.
- Hagia Sophia: iconic domes and centuries of history.
- Grand Bazaar: spices, sweets, textiles — and excellent snack stops.
- Blue Mosque: beautiful tilework and a calm moment in the city.
New Orleans, USA
New Orleans is a foodie destination that’s absolutely worth the trip. The city is famous for Creole and Cajun cuisine — a mix of French, African and Native American influences. Must-tries include gumbo, jambalaya and a proper po’boy. And yes… you should absolutely have a beignet.
- French Quarter: architecture, music and iconic restaurants.
- Preservation Hall: the place for authentic New Orleans jazz.
- Garden District: grand homes, oak-lined streets and a slower pace.
Quick planning notes
What’s a “foodie trip” in your style?
A mix of standout meals and local favourites, plus experiences that make it memorable — market visits, a cooking class, a street-food evening, or a day trip that adds a bit of adventure.
Can you build this as a multi-centre itinerary?
Yes — and I’ll make it flow properly with the right routing, transfers and timing, so it feels like a holiday (not a logistics project).
Can vouchers be used towards foodie experiences?
Yes. If you’re gifting an experience, vouchers can go towards a new trip, an existing holiday balance, or add-ons like excursions and tickets. (Gift ideas live here: travel gift vouchers.)
I hope these foodie destinations have inspired your next adventure. Whether you’re craving sushi in Tokyo or beignets in New Orleans, there’s a world of great food waiting to be explored.
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