Summer is finally here and your vacation getaway awaits for you. With three quarters (75%) of global travelers saying that they would likely travel somewhere renowned for its great food and drink when choosing their next travel destination, culinary travel is a trend on the rise. The joy of trying and eating delicious new dishes while travelling can make a trip to remember.
One of the global leaders in connecting travelers with the widest choice of incredible places to stay, uncovered the top food destinations around the world. Booking shared with Latin Times the top 25 destinations to indulge in global delicacies around the world, along with some great tips on where to stay in each.
This travel fare aggregator website invites you on a culinary adventure to satisfy even the fussiest of eaters! From the freshest sushi in Tokyo, to the legendary steak of Buenos Aires, waffles in Brussels and tasty Spanish tapas to the mouth-watering fusion of cuisines and cultures in Malaysia, there really is something for everyone.
Take a gastronomic journey around the world and enjoy great stays and be sure to stop by the top foodie neighbourhood in each destination. Be inspired with a round-up of the best local foods on offer – the perfect way to complete your foodie bucket list!
The Top 25 Food Destinations around the World
- Hong Kong
Taking the top spot is Hong Kong, famous for its vibrant urban centre, skyscraper-studded skyline and of course the variety of foods on offer. Travellers will be in awe of the variety of dishes available, we recommend having a taste of dim sum, kau kee beef brisket, wonton noodles and poon choi (Chinese casserole). During your travels make sure you fully explore Hong Kong Island as Booking.com travellers endorsed this as the top neighbourhood in Hong Kong for food. The top nationalities that travelled to Hong Kong in 2016 were Korean, British and Taiwanese.
Where to stay:
Sitting atop the prestigious Pacific Place Complex is the stunning JW Marriott Hotel Hong Kong, which boasts direct access to the Pacific Place Shopping Mall, an outdoor pool and spacious rooms with mountainous views, Hong Kong City views or overlooking the Victoria Harbour. Dine at the award-winning Man Ho Restaurant which serves authentic Cantonese cuisine, or the Flint Grill & Bar, JW Café, Dolce 88 or the Fish Bar which serves the fresh catch of the day.
- Sao Paulo, Brazil
The city of Sao Paulo is a world-renowned foodie haven, from smart bistros to gourmet restaurants, there is something for everyone. Sample the nation’s signature dish, the Brazilian feijoada (black bean and meat stew) and take a trip through Itaim Bibi, which was voted as the top foodie neighbourhood in Sao Paulo by Booking.com travellers. The top nationalities that travelled to Sao Paulo in 2016 were Argentinian, American and Chilean.
Where to stay:
Hotel Unique boasts contemporary cuisine at the Skye Restaurant and bar, which is considered to be one of the best restaurants in Sao Paulo, not only with incredible food but outstanding views of the vibrant city.
- Tokyo, Japan
The fusion of ultramodern meets traditional is widely regarded as Tokyo’s focal point; take in the neon-lit skyscrapers to historic temples and sample the nation’s diverse offering of foods. Its top restaurants have accrued more Michelin stars than both Paris and New York combined and its signature cuisine of sushi continues to take the world by storm. Be sure to visit Chiyoda Ward, which was endorsed by Booking.com travellers as the top foodie neighbourhood in Tokyo. The top nationalities that travelled to Tokyo in 2016 were Chinese, Taiwanese and American.
Where to stay:
With nine restaurants to choose from the Mandarin Oriental Tokyo is a culinary delight. The jewel in their crown is the Michelin starred Tapas Molecular Bar. An intimate dining experience with only eight seats, this exclusive experience celebrates the art of innovative molecular cuisine with bite sized dishes in the traditional sushi bar, right before your eyes.
- Athens, Greece
Discover Greece’s culinary revolution of Athens’ street food and stop by Plaka, which was voted the top foodie neighbourhood in Athens by Booking.com travellers. Be sure to sample the capital’s signature dishes, Souvlaki (grilled meat and vegetable skewers) and Koulouri (tasty sesame bread rings). The top nationalities that travelled to Athens in 2016 were French, British and Italian.
Where to stay:
Housed in a neoclassical building is the beautiful Alice Inn; centrally located in the heart of Plaka, guests can take a short stroll to the Syntagma Square where they can find an array of restaurants, bars and cafes. Wake up to daily fresh breakfasts, or prepare your own meal in the common kitchen, while basking in the sunshine on the ground-floor terrace.
- Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Kuala Lumpur is best known for its modern skylines, glass and steel-clad skyscrapers, sandy white beaches, lush rainforests and colourful food-stall-lined streets. Travellers will love the fusion of contemporary meets traditional and the beautiful mixture of Malay, Chinese, Indian and European cultures and cuisines. Booking.com travellers have endorsed Mid Valley as the top foodie neighbourhood in Kuala Lumpur. The top nationalities that travelled to Kuala Lumpur in 2016 were Singaporean, Saudi Arabian and Chinese.
Where to stay:
Experience world-class service at The Gardens – A St Giles Signature Hotel & Residences, Kuala Lumpur, located in Mid Valley and boasting elegant accommodation, infinity pool, fitness centre and stunning city views. Guests will be spoilt for choice from the hearty buffet breakfast served at The Spread, or opt for fine-dining at Sage featuring an open kitchen, or try a refreshing cocktail (or two) at the lobby and pool bars.
- Melbourne, Australia
Known for its gorgeous beaches, sun-kissed city centre and vibrant bars and restaurants along the Yarra River, Melbourne is the place to be. Embrace the true Aussie lifestyle and tuck into delicious barbeque dishes with friends and family while watching the timeless sunsets pass by. Take a trip to South Yarra which was endorsed as the top foodie neighbourhood in Melbourne by Booking.com travellers. The top nationalities that travelled to Melbourne in 2016 were Chinese, Kiwi and British.
Where to stay:
The boutique hotel of Art Series - The Olsen is located in the heart of South Yarra on Chapel Street, which is just a few minutes’ walk from an array of dining venues, entertainment hotspots and shopping centres. Take a dip in the hotel’s unique glass bottom swimming pool, relax in the day spa and then round off your evening with a delicious dinner at the contemporary onsite restaurant and bar.
- Bangkok, Thailand
Go on an adventure and sample the exotic street food stalls of Bangkok. Take a culinary exploration and try the capitals signature dishes of chicken satay, sukiyaki (sliced beef soup), khao gang (curried rice) or gai yang (grilled chicken). Along your travels make sure to take a trip to Siam, which was voted as the top foodie neighbourhood in Bangkok by Booking.com travellers. The top nationalities that travelled to Bangkok in 2016 were Chinese, British and German.
Where to stay:
Travel like a local and stay at the cosy Villa Mungkala guest house in SIam, offering beautiful views from the terrace, free bicycle hire to explore the surrounding areas and private bathrooms. Ideally located, guests can take a short walk to the Temple of the Golden Mount and Khao San Road, where an array of nightlife hotspots, bars, music and dining venues can be found. Be sure to check out Max’s Magical Thai Food, Susie Wong’s Beer and Buns and Brick Bar.
- Granada, Spain
For any foodie fan, a trip to Granada is a must. Sample the city’s staple dishes of piononos (small sweet pastries glazed with syrup and filled with cream) or try the olla de san antón (a typical stew containing beans, rice and sausage) or jamón de trevelez (ham that is cured naturally). During your stay make sure you pass through Centro which was voted as the top foodie neighbourhood in Granada by Booking.com travellers. The top nationalities that travelled to Granada in 2016 were French, Italian and British.
Where to stay:
Located just outside Alhambra’s ancient walls is the exquisite Alhambra Palace; in the neighbourhood of Centro offering spectacular views over the city of Granada. Relax in stylish rooms with Moorish-inspired décor and dine at the a la carte restaurant serving the very best of Andalusian food.
- Las Vegas, United States
Arguably one of the most famous, if not the most famous party hotspot in the world, Las Vegas has a lot more to offer than vibrant nightclubs and 24 hour casinos. The boulevard is home to the widest choice of restaurants and cuisines, from swanky rooftop bars, to lavish restaurants, to intimate and budget diners; Sin City has it all. Booking.com travellers endorsed West of the Las Vegas Strip as the top foodie neighbourhood in Las Vegas. The top nationalities that travelled to Las Vegas in 2016 were British, Chinese and German.
Where to stay:
Stay in the West of the Las Vegas Strip at the South Pacific themed Tahiti All-Suite Resort, boasting an outdoor swimming pool with a sand bottom. The poolside features barbecue grills so you can sit back and enjoy something delicious off the grill surrounded by tropical gardens.
- Buenos Aires, Argentina
A trip to Argentina is the perfect opportunity to indulge your senses, from the sight of the stunning mountainous views to the taste of the mouth-watering foods. Treat yourself to the country’s legendary steak and the dulce de leche sweet treats. During your travels, pass through Palermo which was voted as the top foodie neighbourhood in Argentina by Booking.com travellers. The top nationalities that travelled to Buenos Aires in 2016 were Brazilian, Chinese and Korean.
Where to stay:
The stylish Soho Point apartments are located in the trendy neighbourhood of Palermo, with the Serrano Square just a short walk away. Offering a range of fashionable dining venues, open-aired cafes and bars.
- Singapore
Best known for its tropical climate and multicultural population, Singapore has it all. From ancient temples and holy sites, lush rainforests, sandy white beaches and a rich fusion of cultural cuisines. Combining dishes from Chinese, Indian, Malay and Indonesian influences, even the fussiest of eaters will be satisfied. During your trip check out the Orchard, which was endorsed by Booking.com travellers as the top foodie neighbourhood in Singapore.
The top nationalities that travelled to Singapore in 2016 were Indonesian, Chinese and Australian.
- Warsaw, Poland
The sprawling city of Warsaw is best known for its varied architecture that reflects the city’s history from Gothic churches to modern skyscrapers. At the heart of the city is the Market Square with open air cafes and bustling food stalls. Along the way, stop by Wola which was endorsed by Booking.com travellers as the top foodie neighbourhood in Warsaw.
The top nationalities that travelled to Warsaw in 2016 were British, German and Belarusian.
- Porto, Portugal
This coastal city is known for its port wine production, medieval Ribeira district, cobble-stoned streets and historic merchants’ houses and cafes. With the Douro vineyards in the east and the Trás-os-Montes producing the best smoked meats and tangy cheese, Porto has a lot on its plate to offer. Take a trip to Boavista which was voted as the top foodie neighbourhood in Porto by Booking.com travellers. The top nationalities that travelled to Porto in 2016 were Spanish, French and German.
- Valencia, Spain
Known for its warm and sunny climate, beautiful Blue Flag beaches and futuristic structures Valencia has a lot to offer. Sip a fruity sangria in one of the many bars along the promenades and tuck into some signature tasty tapas dishes. During your travels stop by Ciutat Vella which was endorsed by Booking.com travellers as the top foodie neighbourhood in Valencia. The top nationalities that travelled to Valencia in 2016 were Italian, Dutch and British.
- Florence, Italy
Italy’s twenty regions all serve their distinct take on Italian cuisine, but our top dishes to try from Florence include schiacciata (a flat bread drizzled in olive oil and sprinkled with salt), pappardelle with cinghiale (pasta cooked in a wild boar sauce) and for those adventurous foodies you must try lampredotto (cow’s stomach), which is typically served in a crusty bread roll and meaty broth. During your travels, be sure to take a trip to Centro Storico, which was voted as the top foodie neighbourhood in Florence by Booking.com travellers. The top nationalities that travelled to Florence in 2016 were French, British and Spanish.
- Milan, Italy
One of the fashion capitals of the world, Milan is also known for high-end restaurants and shops, fashion, design and famous architecture such as the Gothic Duomo de Milano. Although travellers should not forget the tasty food on offer too; and make sure you check out Centro Storico, which was voted as the top foodie neighbourhood by Booking.com travellers, and taste some iconic dishes such as the risotto alla milanese or the cassoeula. The top nationalities that travelled to Milan in 2016 were French, German and British.
- Sydney, Australia
Best known for its harbour-front Sydney Opera House, the arched Harbour Bridge and the esteemed Royal Botanic Gardens, Sydney has a lot to offer! This bustling city is home to countless dining venues, trendy bars and nightlife hotspots, however the country does have some traditional dishes for the more adventurous traveller. Are you brave enough to try a witchetty grub (a large, white, wood-eating larvae)? If not, make sure you stop by the Central Business District which was voted as the top foodie neighbourhood in Sydney by Booking.com travellers. The top nationalities that travelled to Sydney in 2016 were Chinese, British and Kiwi.
- Krakow, Poland
Known for indulging in red meat, cheese and potatoes; what’s not to love about eating like the locals in Krakow? We recommend trying the country’s signature dish of placki ziemniaczane (potato pancakes), rosół (chicken soup) and bigos (a traditional meat stew). Make sure you pass through Stare Miasto which was voted as the top foodie neighbourhood in Krakow by Booking.com travellers. The top nationalities that travelled to Krakow in 2016 were British, Ukrainian and German.
- Istanbul, Turkey
Istanbul is a culinary delight, from the hustle and bustle of the street food markets to extravagant fine-dining restaurants, there is something for everyone. Be sure to sample the humble simit (Turkey’s version of the American bagel), which is freshly baked, molasses-dipped and sesame-crusted dough. Also try lahmacun (often referred to by tourists as the Turkish pizza) this simple dough based meal is topped with minced meat, red onions and red peppers. Be sure to see the sights of Old City Sultanahmet which was voted as the top foodie neighbourhood in Istanbul by Booking.com travellers. The top nationalities that travelled to Istanbul in 2016 were Saudi Arabian, German and British.
- Lisbon, Portugal
The picturesque and coastal city of Lisbon is widely known for its pretty beaches, pastel-coloured buildings, world heritage sites and medieval castles. Lisbon offers a wide range of culinary delights and is known for its fresh ingredients from the mountains in the north to the rolling hills and plains of the south. Be sure to visit Baiza, which is the top foodie neighbourhood in Lisbon as voted for by Booking.com travellers. The top nationalities that travelled to Lisbon in 2016 were French, Spanish and German.
- Munich, Germany
Home to century-old buildings and museums, Munich is widely known for its annual Oktoberfest celebrations and beer halls. Make sure you sample Bavarian beer, bagels with sausages, apfelstrudel and sauerkraut. Along your travels stop by Maxvorstadt which was voted the top foodie neighbourhood in Munich by Booking.com travellers. The top nationalities that travelled to Munich in 2016 were Italian, Austrian and Swiss.
- Copenhagen, Denmark
The colourful and trendy city of Copenhagen is best known for its friendly locals, brightly painted houses, cobblestoned streets, craft studios and candlelit cafes. Often considered the happiest city on Earth, Copenhagen does not disappoint when it comes to food. Embrace the Danish way and sample smørrebrød (open-faced sandwiches), the trend of recycled food (food-waste supermarkets) and the tasty hindbærsnitter (raspberry shortcrust pastry bars). Stop by Vesterbro as this was voted by Booking.com travellers as the top foodie neighbourhood in Copenhagen. The top nationalities that travelled to Copenhagen in 2016 were British, Swedish and German.
- Seville, Spain
Famous for its flamenco dancing, the Alcázar castle, 18th-century Plaza de Toros de la Maestranza bullring and the Gothic Seville Cathedral, Seville has a lot to offer. Spain is famous for its tasty tapas dishes and fruity Sangria drink, however Seville also has a few signature dishes of its own. Try the tasty sweet treat torrijas and the melt-in-your-mouth pork dish, secreto iberico. Along your travels, take a trip to Casco Antiguo which was voted by Booking.com travellers as the top foodie neighbourhood in Seville. The top nationalities that travelled to Seville in 2016 were French, Italian and British.
- Brussels, Belgium
For any foodie, a city escape to Brussels is a must, where you can try the nation’s staple sweet treats of waffles and chocolates and of course the famous Belgian beer! However there is far more to this nation’s cuisine than its famous guilty pleasures. Treat your taste buds to stoverij, a beef casserole cooked with beer, or try the creamy fish stew of waterzooi. During your travels to Belgium, make sure you stop by Oudergem which was voted by Booking.com travellers as the top foodie neighbourhood in Brussels. The top nationalities that travelled to Brussels in 2016 were French, British and Dutch.
- Rome, Italy
This sprawling cosmopolitan city is globally known for its ancient ruins, influential art, architecture and museums. During your travels make sure you try the city’s signature dishes of pizza Bianca, carbonara and homemade gelato. Also, check out Aventino Piramide which was voted as the top foodie neighbourhood in Rome by Booking.com travellers. The top nationalities that travelled to Rome in 2016 were British, French and Spanish.
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