Are you looking to explore the world, one exquisite bite and sip at a time? To truly get a sense of a destination, taking advantage of experienced guides who know where to find the best in global food and wine can make all the difference. After all, nothing beats sampling local favorites while walking through stunning landscapes, getting a real taste of each place.
As you plan your next excursion, here are a few of the best food and wine tours in the world when it comes time to indulge your palate. Each one offers an unforgettable experience that will teach you something new about cuisine and culture, no matter where you’re exploring.
Let’s start in France, the country synonymous with extraordinary wine and food. On the Gastronomic Tour of Provence, guests discover the delicate and delicious flavors of the region both past and present. You’ll wander through olive groves and lavender fields, stopping for a variety of local tastings along the way, from tapenades and cheeses to rillettes and wines. Visit artisan producers of honey, herbs, olives and more, savoring wild boar, truffles and other delicacies crafted by local chefs.
Those in search of an Italian adventure should look no farther than the La Tavola di Toscana tour. This five-day trip takes you through the heartland of Tuscany, passing through medieval hill towns and stunning countryside. Here you’ll learn all about the traditional products made in the area–from the celebrated wines and cold-pressed olive oil to handmade pastas and the renowned pecorino cheese. Stroll through vineyards, visit farmhouses and enjoy a variety of special tastings during this memorable exploration of Tuscan culture.
If you’d prefer a tour further afield, then venture to Australia, where a Queensland Food and Wine Trail leads you from Brisbane to Cairns. Journey up the east coast, picking up fresh produce, visiting local wineries and even meeting wild koalas as you go. Walk through rainforest and wetlands, pop into unique restaurants and relax with panoramic views. It’s an eclectic tour of the Australian food scene, complete with an open bar and amazing coastal scenery throughout.
Or maybe you’d rather experience the culinary delight of South America. A Taste of Chile is the perfect way to do it, combining the country’s natural wonders with the best in its signature cuisine. Travel from the capital of Santiago to the vibrant port city of Valparaíso and wine country in the Colchagua Valley. Then journey on to stunning Atacama Desert National Park, with unique gastronomic experiences, luxury accommodations and off-the-beaten-path adventures waiting around every corner. Enjoy local specialties like cobquecura prawns, pastel de choclo, empanadas and of course, some excellent Chilean wines.
No matter where your wanderlust takes you, there’s sure to be a food and wine tour that’ll satisfy your appetite. Whether you’re a lover of French wines, Australian fare or South American cuisine, these are some of the best ways to truly get to know a destination – deliciousness guaranteed.
So if you’re ready to embark on an edible journey of discovery, you know where to start. Pack your bags, check out these food and wine tours and prepare to indulge your palate. Bon voyage!
In the United States, a great food and wine tour is the Southwest Wine Trail. This memorable journey takes you through parts of Arizona, New Mexico, and even California, with stops along the way to some of the best wineries in the region. Visit a number of family-run vineyards, tasting their locally-made red and white wines while enjoying live music, food and more. From Tuscan-style to Cabernet Sauvignon and from Chardonnay to Syrah, you’re sure to find something special here.
For something closer to home, look no further than Spain for an unforgettable experience. When you join the Spanish Cuisine and Wine Tour, you’ll explore three regions of the country that are renowned for their gastronomic excellence – Catalonia, Andalusia and La Rioja. Hop between cities and small towns, tasting delicious tapas, cured meats, olives and cheeses as well as sampling some world-class wines. Immerse yourself in the culture with local specialty cooking demonstrations, and of course, plenty of opportunities to savor the regional dishes.
If you’ve always wanted to explore the far east, then look no further than Japan for a culinary adventure like no other. On the Hokkaido Food and Wine Tour, guests get to book private dinners and tastings at some of the finest restaurants in the area, as well as visit wineries and sake breweries on a unique excursion. Sample delicacies such as sushi, tempura, and soba noodles, as well as exquisite sakes and local wines. Exploring the island nation’s culture, history, and traditions while noshing on delicious treats is an experience you won’t soon forget.
Traveling all the way to Thailand is worthwhile when it comes to the Thai Food, Culture, and Cuisine Tour. Explore the wonders of Bangkok, sampling the street food that makes the city so famous and taking in the vibrant culture. Then head off to the beaches of Phuket, sampling some of its signature seafood dishes while enjoying postcard-perfect sunsets. From spicy curries to Thai salads and local beers, this tour will make you fall in love with the cuisine of this amazing country.
Wine lovers should not miss out on a trip to Germany. The German Grape Trail takes you through Baden-Wurttemberg, one of the largest and most important wine-producing regions in the country. Enjoy some of its finest vintages, from Riesling and Gewurztraminer to Silvaner and Pinot Gris, as well as regional dishes like Maultaschen, Kasespatzle and more. Along the way, you’ll also get to explore picturesque villages and historical sites, making this an ideal destination for food and wine enthusiasts.
Head to Central America and explore the Mexican Tequila Tour. Not just a chance to sip tequila, this tour also allows you to explore some of the best local fare, including tacos, quesadillas, and tacos al pastor. Learn about recipes and techniques used in Mexican cooking, as well as the process of making tequila. You’ll also get plenty of opportunities to sample the local tipple, as well as enjoying some spectacular landscapes along the way.
Head to the Caribbean and explore the Caribbean Flavors tour. This culinary experience takes you to three destinations, Puerto Rico, Antigua, and St. Lucia, each island with its own unique flavor. Try traditional dishes such as Mofongo, Jerk Chicken, and Ropa Vieja, as well as exotic fruits and seafood delicacies. Plus, enjoy rum tastings, cooking classes, and visits to local markets, giving you a true taste of life in the Caribbean.
For a European escape, head to Greece for a voyage of discovery. The Greek Culinary Tour offers both a rich cultural experience and a wonderful introduction to the foods of the Mediterranean. Visit ancient sites such as Olympia and Delphi, take a cooking class, and explore remote Greek islands. Sample traditional specialties such as Taramosalata, Gyros, and Dolmades, as well as local wines, olive oils, and cheeses. You’ll even have time to relax on the beaches of Mykonos and Santorini.
Venture to South Africa to experience the Fynbos Food and Wine tour. Spanning the Western Cape, this tour is all about exploring the bounty of the area, savoring the flavors of the world-famous Fynbos cuisine. Enjoy fine wines at top estates, taste olive oils and balsamic vinegars, and learn to cook dishes such as bobotie, bredies and sosaties from local chefs. Explore the gardens, stop for lunch in pastoral settings and discover why South Africa’s wines and cuisine are worth travelling for.
Finally, for a truly unique experience, take the Galapagos Culinary Tour. Learn about the exotic seafood and local fruit available in the archipelago, such as palmitos, sea cucumbers and guayaba. Discover how to prepare traditional dishes such as ceviche, pastel de chaufa, and caldillo de congrio, and indulge in some of the best wines of the region. As well as enjoying the flavors, you’ll also get to explore the stunning landscape and meet the incredible animals that inhabit the islands.
