Best Wine and Culinary Experiences in Europe
For travelers who appreciate the finer things in life, Europe offers an unmatched blend of world-class cuisine and iconic wine regions. From riverfront vineyards to bustling city markets, this continent is home to some of the most extraordinary culinary travel experiences on the planet.
Whether you’re craving handmade pasta in Italy, bold reds in Portugal, or artisanal cheeses in France, there’s no better time to indulge. Keep reading to discover Europe’s best destinations for wine travel and gastronomic delight—each one perfect for luxury vacations, group travel, or a once-in-a-lifetime food-focused adventure.
Discover Maribor: Europe’s hidden culinary gem
Tucked away in Slovenia, Maribor is a hidden gem for culinary travelers. Known for its historic wine cellars, Maribor offers immersive tastings of local varietals like Šipon and Modra Frankinja.
Pair your wine with regional specialties such as pumpkin seed oil drizzled over seasonal dishes, or dine at acclaimed farm-to-table restaurants that showcase the area’s rich agricultural traditions. Culinary travel here feels intimate, authentic, and surprisingly luxurious.
Tuscany’s wine tours: A journey through Chianti’s vineyards
No list of European culinary destinations would be complete without Tuscany. With rolling hills lined with cypress trees and sun-drenched vineyards, Chianti is a sensory paradise. Wine tours here typically include visits to family-run estates, barrel tastings in medieval cellars, and generous pours of Sangiovese paired with local pecorino, truffle-infused dishes, and rustic Tuscan fare. These wine travel experiences are ideal for luxury vacations, whether you’re joining a small group or savoring a private tasting.
Athens’ culinary walk: Savoring Greek flavors
Athens is a feast for the senses, especially when explored through a guided culinary walk. Wander through lively neighborhoods and traditional markets while sampling fresh olives, flaky spanakopita, and loukoumades soaked in honey. The experience is equal parts cultural immersion and gourmet delight, offering insights into ancient cooking methods and the modern Greek food revival. Athens is a top pick for travelers seeking both history and culinary discovery.
Bordeaux’s harvest season: Participate in France’s wine tradition
Bordeaux is synonymous with exceptional wine, and there’s no better time to visit than during the annual harvest. Participate in grape picking, enjoy cellar tours, and sip Merlot and Cabernet blends straight from the barrel. Culinary experiences here are equally impressive, from Michelin-starred dining to rustic countryside picnics paired with local cheeses and canelés. This is a must for wine travel enthusiasts who want to dive deep into France’s vinicultural heritage.
Douro valley delights: Portuguese wine and river cruises
Portugal’s Douro Valley enchants travelers with its terraced vineyards and storied wine estates. Best explored by river cruise, this UNESCO World Heritage site is a haven for lovers of port and full-bodied reds. As your ship glides past scenic hillsides, enjoy curated tastings, regional specialties like bacalhau and alheira sausage, and warm hospitality from local vintners. It’s a seamless blend of luxury cruises and authentic culinary exploration.
Parisian food tours: A taste of France’s capital
Paris may be known for its romance, but its culinary tours are equally enchanting. From patisserie tastings in Le Marais to cheese and wine pairings in Montmartre, these guided experiences reveal the city’s gourmet secrets. Sample buttery croissants, delicate macarons, and robust French wines in the city where culinary artistry reigns supreme. Ideal for both first-time visitors and seasoned Francophiles, Parisian food tours promise deliciousness at every turn.
Savor the journey with A Way to Go Travel
Ready to indulge in Europe’s finest wine and culinary experiences? Whether you’re dreaming of luxury cruises through Portugal’s wine country, immersive food tours in France, or small group travel through Italy’s vineyards, our expert travel advisors are here to tailor every aspect of your trip.
Contact the travel experts at A Way to Go Travel to begin planning your next unforgettable getaway today.
