Food is central to travel for many people, and for good reason—it’s often what makes a trip memorable. Culinary experiences can be a huge influence on where we decide to travel, with food lovers flocking to cities known for their unique and vibrant food scenes.
According to the American Express Global Travel Trends report, 81% of travelers prioritize the culinary experiences of a destination when planning their trips. With that in mind, we’ve compiled a list of the best foodie capitals around the world that should be on every culinary traveler’s radar. These cities have been ranked based on factors like the number of Michelin-starred restaurants, culinary attractions, and the sheer quality of their gastronomic offerings. Here are 14 must-visit destinations for food lovers:
- Paris, France
Paris takes the top spot as the world’s official foodie capital, earning a remarkable score of 92.71 out of 100. The city is home to an abundance of Michelin-starred restaurants and boasts over 500 restaurants featured in the Michelin Guide. Paris offers a wide variety of classic French dishes, from croissants and baguettes to escargot, coq au vin, duck confit, and of course, crème brûlée. Besides indulging in fine dining, don’t miss iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and the charming Montmartre district.
- Athens, Greece
Athens, known for its ancient landmarks, also impresses with its culinary offerings. With a score of 83.86 out of 100, Athens might not have the most restaurants, but it makes up for it with affordability and delicious traditional dishes. Greek specialties like bougatsa (custard pie) and moussaka (eggplant casserole) are must-tries. Plus, the city’s dining scene is known for its warm, casual atmosphere.
- Tokyo, Japan
Tokyo isn’t just a haven for anime fans and sightseers—it’s also a top destination for food lovers. Scoring 81.34 out of 100, Tokyo features an impressive 537 Michelin-starred restaurants and over 4,700 5-star dining establishments. From ramen to gyudon (beef rice bowls) and gyoza (dumplings), Tokyo offers an incredible variety of authentic dishes. With an average meal cost of just $34 for two people, it’s also the most budget-friendly foodie capital on our list.
- Zürich, Switzerland
Switzerland is famous for its stunning alpine landscapes, but Zürich also ranks as a top foodie destination with an overall score of 80.69. The city is home to over 235 5-star restaurants, and though it’s the priciest city on the list, it’s well worth the splurge. Try Swiss classics like fondue, raclette, rösti (potato cakes), and hafächabis (traditional stew).
- Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Amsterdam comes in fifth with a score of 78.74, offering a diverse culinary scene. The city has over 550 5-star restaurants and more than 100 Michelin Guide restaurants. Though the Netherlands has only two national dishes, the iconic stamppot (mashed potatoes with kale and sausage) is a must-try. You’ll also find plenty of international options to explore in this vibrant city.
- Prague, Czech Republic
With a score of 77.74, Prague offers a unique culinary experience where hearty dishes take center stage. The city is home to nearly 1,000 5-star restaurants, though it only has 26 Michelin-starred spots. Try the Czech favorite, beef steak tartare, often paired with a local beer, or indulge in goulash, a flavorful meat stew.
- Valletta, Malta
Valletta, Malta ranks seventh with a score of 77.40, offering a mix of historical charm and delicious Mediterranean flavors. Known for its seafood and meat-based dishes like rabbit stew (stuffat tal-fenek), Valletta’s cuisine reflects the island’s rich cultural influences.
- Brussels, Belgium
Belgium’s capital comes in eighth place, known for its famous chocolate, waffles, and beer. With a variety of Michelin-rated restaurants, Brussels offers an unforgettable foodie experience. Be sure to try Belgian fries, mussels, and, of course, the delicious Belgian chocolate that the city is famous for.
These destinations showcase the best of what the culinary world has to offer, ensuring that every bite taken is a moment worth savoring. Whether you’re after Michelin-starred restaurants, street food, or authentic local dishes, these cities provide everything a foodie could wish for.
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