As the warm breeze of summer approaches, the urge to travel and explore new flavors grows stronger than ever. Summer 2025 promises a culinary adventure like no other, with travelers seeking authentic, locally inspired experiences that go beyond the usual tourist trail. Whether you dream of savoring fresh seafood by the Italian Riviera or exploring farm-to-table gems in Upstate New York, the latest travel trends reveal the best destinations where food and culture beautifully collide. Guided by Airbnb’s 2025 Summer Travel Trends report, we dive into the top food destinations around the globe—from charming European coastal towns to vibrant cities and hidden gems off the beaten path. Get ready to pack your bags and your appetite.
The Rise of Local Flavor in Travel
In recent years, travelers have increasingly prioritized authentic cultural experiences, and food is often the gateway. Airbnb’s latest summer travel report shows a clear shift toward destinations that offer not only stunning scenery but also rich culinary traditions. According to Airbnb, one in five guests chose their accommodation specifically to immerse themselves in local life—and, by extension, local cuisine.
Rather than flocking to traditional culinary capitals during the busy season, many are now turning to lesser-known food havens that promise both quality and affordability. This shift reflects a desire for meaningful experiences over crowds, where diners can connect with the heritage and community behind every dish. Supporting this, a survey by Panterra found that nearly half of travelers rank authentic local cuisine as their top priority when choosing a destination.
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European Coastal Charms: Italy, Spain, and the Netherlands
Europe continues to captivate food lovers with its rich and varied culinary landscape, but the spotlight this summer shines on some surprisingly under-the-radar locations. Take Alassio, Italy, a delightful seaside town that rivals Positano with its breathtaking coastline and an impressive gastronomic scene. Known for its fresh local seafood, wild herbs, and the prized Riviera Ligure DOP extra-virgin olive oil, Alassio offers a taste of the Italian Riviera’s best—without the typical crowds.
Meanwhile, Spain’s Chiclana de la Frontera in Costa de la Luz emerges as another must-visit culinary hotspot. This sunny beach town is famed for its masterful seafood preparations, with local chefs serving dishes that highlight the purest flavors of the Atlantic. Paired with sandy beaches and warm hospitality, Chiclana delivers an authentic taste of Andalusian tradition.
Heading north, Rotterdam in the Netherlands offers a dynamic contrast with its innovative international food scene. Known for its bold culinary experimentation, Rotterdam fuses global influences into creative dishes that appeal to adventurous palates. It’s the perfect destination for travelers who want to experience a cosmopolitan food culture grounded in community and innovation.
Global Foodie Gems: Brazil, India, South Africa, and More
Travelers seeking vibrant, lesser-known culinary destinations will find plenty to love beyond Europe. Belo Horizonte in Brazil stands out for its rich Minas Gerais cuisine, famed for hearty, flavorful dishes that reflect the region’s diverse cultural heritage. Foodies can enjoy everything from traditional cheese breads (pão de queijo) to slow-cooked meats and farm-fresh produce.
In India, Shillong beckons with its unique Khasi cuisine—a blend of indigenous flavors and cooking techniques seldom found on mainstream menus. The city’s local delicacies and street food offer an authentic taste of northeastern India’s rich culinary tapestry.
South Africa’s Marloth Park, adjacent to the iconic Kruger National Park, combines food and nature in an exceptional way. Known for its grape cultivation and local wine production, Marloth Park invites visitors to savor farm-fresh ingredients and award-winning wines in a setting brimming with wildlife and natural beauty.
Other notable mentions include Arakawa City, Japan, famous for its comforting bowls of ramen and perfectly pan-fried gyoza; Rawai, Thailand, where fresh seafood and locally sourced ingredients dominate menus; and Santa Teresita in Argentina, which serves a melting pot of global influences with its Italian, Spanish, and European heritage.
Hidden Treasures in the USA: Upstate New York’s Oneonta
Food-focused travel doesn’t always mean crossing oceans. Airbnb’s report highlights Oneonta, New York, as a burgeoning culinary destination right in the heart of the Catskills. Known as a “hidden gem escape,” Oneonta offers visitors a diverse array of dining options with an emphasis on farm-to-table ingredients, craft breweries, and cozy local eateries.
This small city balances rustic charm with a thriving food scene that appeals to a wide range of tastes—from artisanal brews to innovative New American cuisine. Oneonta’s proximity to beautiful natural landscapes also makes it an ideal destination for travelers who want to combine outdoor adventures with memorable meals.
Planning Your Summer Food Journey
With such an inspiring variety of destinations on the rise, planning your summer 2025 food journey means considering what kind of culinary adventure excites you most. Are you drawn to coastal towns with fresh seafood and breathtaking views, or do you crave the bustling innovation of a city food scene? Maybe you prefer the slow, soulful meals of historic regions or the discovery of hidden gems that feel like your own secret.
Wherever your appetite leads you, the trend is clear: travelers want genuine connections—to food, to culture, and to place. This summer, make your meals more than just fuel for your travels; let them be the centerpiece of your adventure.
Summer 2025 is shaping up to be a year of thoughtful travel, where food becomes a gateway to authentic local experiences and cultural discovery. Whether it’s the sun-drenched coasts of Italy, the innovative tables of Rotterdam, or the craft breweries of Upstate New York, these trending food destinations promise to delight and inspire any traveler eager to eat well and live fully. So go ahead, book that trip, and prepare to taste your way through some of the most exciting culinary landscapes the world has to offer.
