Are you travelling for food? Then here is your travel guide to the best foodie destinations for each month in 2025
Where will go you for awesome foodie experiences next year?

As we get closer to the new year, it’s time to narrow down the options and start booking your foodie trips of 2025.

Certainly, there is no shortage of awesome foodie destinations around the world. Which means, planning your next food or drinks-based travel trip can become an overwhelming task. Where do you start? What are the main criteria to take into consideration? Of course, the food will be on top of your list, but other criteria might be important too. Especially if you are planning to visit new places not in easy reach of your home.

To help you find the best destinations offering unique culinary experiences in places worth visiting for a wide range of additional reasons, including culture, local architecture, landscapes, and more, below, I have put together a list of exciting foodie destinations for each month of the year.

Read on to find the foodie destination most appealing to you. However, be careful. My suggestions might make your travel bucket list longer than ever before.

The best foodie destinations in January

Travelling in January means two things. Either you are part of the gang that can’t wait to hit the slopes, or you fancy a summer break somewhere distant (if you live in the northern hemisphere). So, what does this mean for those looking for food-themed travel? Combining either a snow or sun escape with great food, of course.

The Italian Dolomites

The breathtakingly beautiful UNESCO World Heritage listed Italian Dolomites are stunning when covered under a blanket of snow. Top quality skiing on the sunny side of the Alps in combination with an incredible density of luxury hospitality are certainly not a bad reason to visit. Even better though, the regional alpine food is sublime.

Dining experiences ranges from simple yet cosy rustic inns, wine taverns, and alpine huts to Michelin-starred restaurants. What all have in common is a huge dedication to locally sourced, high quality organic produce. As the cherry on top, the areas of Trentino-Alto Adige produce outstanding wines too.

Sarlat, France

No food enthusiast will regret a trip to France, year-round and regardless of the location. Still, visiting the Perigord during the local truffle season is a major highlight even for the most spoilt foodie traveller. The local truffle markets, while attracting more international visitors now, have maintained their small-town charm.

From December through to February, Saturday mornings in the medieval town of Sarlat in the Dordogne Valley are fully dedicated to the renowned black Perigord truffles. Meanwhile, hold in mid-January is the annual truffle festival.

For more gastronomic pleasures, there is plenty of choice where to eat in Sarlat, from the small bistros to Michelan-star restaurants. Local staples include duck, goose, and indeed truffles.

Western Cape Winelands, South Africa

January is peak summertime in South Africa, but local summer holidays have just finished, thus visitor numbers are dwindling, and prices are significantly down from the festive season. In other words, this is the perfect time to visit.

If you love good food and wine, the South African Winelands, just a short drive away from Cape Town are full of wonderful hotels, restaurants, and wineries. Even better, you will often find all three under one roof.

Central Otago, New Zealand

Home to the southernmost vineyards in the world, and renowned for its excellent Pinot Noir, Central Otago is one the most rewarding destinations for food lovers and wine geeks alike. From exquisite cellar door dining to award winning restaurants and many food and wine related festivals and events, there is no shortage of choice for wine and food lovers. Food it mostly locally sourced and includes fresh seafood, merino lamb, game meat, organic vegetables and a wide range of fruits (after all the region is known as the fruit bowl of the south).

The best foodie destinations in February

Perhaps one of the most difficult months to travel – except for ski holidays – February nevertheless offers some real culinary gems. Plus, you might plan a nice getaway for Valentine’s Day.

Menton, Cote d’Azur

Agreed, February is slightly early for the lovely Cote d’Azur. On the other hand, with around 300 days of sunshine and generally mild temperatures, the south of France is a destination that works year-round if you don’t mind bringing a coat.

From mid-February to the first days of March, Menton will hold its legendary annual lemon festival, the staggering Fete de Citron. The theme for 2025 is ‘journey to the stars’ so you kinda know what to expect from the street parades.

Venice, Italy

Carnivale di Venezia takes place from 22nd February through to 4th March 2025 thus this is your opportunity to admire stunningly beautiful historic costumes. It’s also peak season for some of the city’s most celebrated sweets every food lover must try at least once, including galani, fritelle, chiacchiere, castagnole, and ravioli di Carnevale. Otherwise, indulge in cicchetti (the local equivalents to tapas) with a glass of wine and in the evening head out to one of the many excellent local Osterie for a delicious plate of pasta, a risotto or if you go to Harry’s Bar, the famous carpaccio.

Baja California, Mexico

Wine lovers will be familiar with the region, and maybe some of the local wines. However, visitor number remain on the lower side which makes Baja California a fantastic place to experience if you want to combine local food with excellent wines but shy away from the crowds in main wine regions just north of the border in California. February is a slightly cooler albeit dry month, so it’s perfect for those looking for a bit of sun without the heat. February is also great to admire grey whales in the lagoons on the coast.

Head to the local wineries for excellent food and wine pairings. Otherwise, a local speciality is smoked marlin while battered fish and shrimp tacos and tostadas piled high with local seafood are other local favourites.

Mendoza, Argentina

It’s summer in South America, and wine harvest will start in late February. Thus, this is the time to head to Argentina’s wine country. Mendoza and the Uco Valley have become synonymous for some of South America’s best wines but unknown to many, the region is also a foodie’s heaven.

On-site winery restaurants serve outstanding food, perfectly matched to the local wines. And more and more offer luxury accommodation too. Breathtaking views over the snow-capped Andes included.

The best foodie destinations in March

Depending where in the world you are, spring or autumn shoulder season is just around the corner. Which is a lovely time to travel as either warmer days are ahead, or harvest season is to kick off.

Hunter Valley, Australia

Australia’s oldest wine region in New South Wales is a foodie heaven, just like most wine regions are. Not too far from Sydney, the regions picture-perfect landscapes and excellent local wines along with the large number of dining spots makes the Hunter Valley the perfect culinary bolthole. Add the annual Harvest Festival kicking off in March, and you have found the best time to visit.

Marrakech, Morrocco

The narrow winding streets of the Medina lined with tiny shops selling handmade rugs, lanterns, colourful embroidered slippers, silver teapots, and colourful spices, are almost reason enough to visit. Add to that the stunning historic palaces, a vibrant nightlife and of course the local food. Aromatic and spicy, you can expect exciting flavour combinations. Think meze, couscous, succulent lamb, fresh seafood, and above all slow-cooked tajines, the flavour-packed stews prepared in the unique local earthenware pot with conical lids.

Sicily, Italy

Sicily has a culinary history second to none, incorporating influences from the many nations once ruling the island, from Phoenicians, Greek, Romans, Vandals, Arab, Normans, and Spanish. All brought with them ingredients from their homelands. Thus, it’s no surprise that many of Sicily’s most iconic dishes use a range of ingredients you will not find very often in other parts of Italy. From street foot to gourmet restaurants, there is no shortage of choice to try Sicily’s iconic dishes.

Two more reasons to visit the island in early March are the annual Almond Blossom Festival in Agrigento along with the Chocobarroco Festival in Modica, when local pasticcerie (bakeries) will create and present artfully created chocolate creations.

Dublin, Ireland

The capital of Ireland is bustling with an incredible culture, historic architecture, and great museums. The compact city centre is perfectly walkable, which is ideal if you want to go on a Guinness tour through the local pubs.

So, why March? Well, it’s St. Patrick’s Day on the 17th and festivities take place for four days, starting on the 17th. Street parades, music, art exhibitions, and yes, food fairs. Keep in mind though, St. Patrick’s Day is a huge attraction for visitors around the world, so the city will be crowded. Which means, planning ahead and making reservations for dining out will be essential.

Restaurants in Dublin and beyond have geared up to using mostly fresh seasonal food sourced locally. From Irish stews, fresh seafood (think cod, prawns, sea bass), a wide range of root vegetables, and excellent cheeses, there is plenty to enjoy.

The best foodie destinations in April

With spring or autumn in full swing, the number of exciting foodie destinations to visit is going through the roof. Whether it’s the first warm days and spring vegetables at their peak or harvest festivals springing up, it’s hard to select only few destinations. However, here are my favourites.

Sevilla, Spain

Tapas, tapas, and tapas.

OK, there is a bit more to experience visiting the capital of Andalucia. Like UNESCO listed Real Alcazar and nearby Cathedral and Giralda Tower, along with places like Plaza de Espana, Maria Lusia Park, Torre d’Oro, the bustling streets of Barrio de Sant Cruz, or the lovely Triana neighbourhood.

It does not hurt though this is one of the most incredible food destinations. From the many awesome food markets to a tapas crawl in the early evening and the many excellent restaurants you will find local stables like Jamon Iberico, salmorejo, ham croquets, fried fish, presa Iberica (pork shoulder), and much more.

Bologna, Italy

Tortellini in brodo, tagliatelle in ragú, Parma ham, culatello, Parmigiano Reggiano, and balsamic vinegar from Modena. Do I have to say more? Italy’s ‘la grassa’ translating to ‘the fat one’ is known to be the culinary heart of Italy for a reason.

Add to that the beautiful medieval and Renaissance structures of the historic centre with its arched walkways, and the nearby wine regions of Emilia Romagna, including the Colli Piacentini and Colli Bolognesi.

Miami & Florida Keys

I love the area but it’s also one tricky to visit. From mid-May through to the end of November, it’s hurricane season, the summer months are scorching hot with high chances of rain and thunderstorms, while March means spring break and thus collage students from all over the U.S. excessively partying at the beach (and elsewhere).

Thus, if you want to splurge on al-fresco seafood suppers, and the sublime Key West limes (ideally worked into a Key West Lime Pie), April is the perfect choice. The weather is pleasantly warm and mostly sunny, and the tourist numbers are among the lowest.

Lima, Peru

Did you know there are more than 4,000 potato varieties in Peru? That said, if you think of the most famous food, ceviche will likely top the list. Thanks to the many local microclimates and diverse landscapes, however, the range of locally grown produce is huge. Fresh seafood is also plentiful including bull crab, squid, clams and shrimp, along with such popular local dishes like stir-fried beef, aji de gallina (shredded chicken in a thick creamy sauce), and guinea pig stuffed with local herbs.

By many dubbed the culinary capital of South America, Lima is your first stop to experience the Peruvian cuisine. The restaurant scene is amazing and while the majority of Peru’s wine regions are a couple of hours south of Lima, the city offers many locations tasting the excellent local wines too.

The best foodie destinations in May

It’s the time of the year when the weather is gearing up for warmer temperatures (or the final stretch of warmer fall weather in the southern hemisphere), so your choice of great foodie destinations is rather high.

Vienna, Austria

Vienna is a wonderful foodie destination year-round, with a wide range of dining options, from cosy taverns to Michelin-star dining. Perhaps less know, the city is also a great place for natural wine, and particularly orange wine. And there is no need to point out the awesome coffee houses serving excellent coffee together with the city’s signature cakes, including of course the famous Sacher cake, right?

All that said, 2025 will a special year as the city will celebrate the 200-year anniversary of famous Austrian composer Johan Strauss. There are many performances and events planned throughout the year, that will make any visit quite special whether you love classic music or not.

However, if I had to pick a time to visit, I would opt for May. There are good chances for nice, already warm weather. Plus, the city will host the annual Genuss Festival on May 9th to 11th. It’s one of the largest and most popular food festivals in Austria. With a wide offer of local food, and the increasingly excellent Austrian wine.

If you can’t make it in May but are keen to visit, Vienna in December is a magical place with city is lit by Christmas lights and various Christmas Markets across the city are doing their magic.

Heidelberg, Germany

May is peak asparagus time in Germany. By which I am referring to the white variety. It’s that time when all Germans are going crazy for a vegetable. Restaurants across the country will offer special asparagus menus, and the emblematic little stalls selling fresh strawberries and asparagus will pop up everywhere.

One of the most famous asparagus festivals is taking place the first Saturday of May annually in the small town of Schwetzingen, a short drive from Heidelberg. Enjoy the freshly harvested stems on-site or in one of the many excellent restaurants after a day exploring historic Heidelberg.

Vancouver, Canada

A hugely diverse restaurant scene with lots of international influences, what they all have in common is a thoroughly farm-to-table approach, serving only the freshest produce sourced mostly from within the region. It’s Canada, so salmon is plentiful, along with West Coast oysters, a great number of top-notch sushi restaurants. In addition, try the awesome food truck offer across the city while sightseeing during the day.

Another place not to be missed – either for a great breakfast to start the day, or a light lunch – is Granville Island Public Market, the cities awesome food market.

Healdsburg, California

California’s Sonoma Valley will be a well-known name for wine lovers and the city of Healdsburg in recent years has become one of its most popular destinations. It’s been awesome on my visit about 15 years ago already, so I can only imagine what it must be like today.

From the small streetside cafes to the excellent restaurants offering amazing tasting menus, this little town is a foodie’s dream. Do I also have to mention the many tasting rooms and surrounding vineyards? Annually from mid-May for four days the city hosts it’s Food & Wine Experience festival.

The best foodie destinations in June

With summer kicking off in the northern hemisphere, we are heading into peak travel season. Which means, prices and visitor numbers are up across the board. Thus, look for more off-beat destinations to find the best foodie spots to visit in June.

Basque Country, Spain

Michelin-star studded San Sebastian, culture-hotspot Bilbao or the Rioja wine region. The Basque Country in northern Spain is a foodie heaven. Across the area, dining options are aplenty. Near the coast, the star is fresh seafood. Moving a bit more inland, wild mushrooms, the famous Iberian pork, and a wide range of locally grown seasonal vegetables make for unforgettable dining experiences.

Pintxos, the regions equivalent to tapas, are plenty wherever you go. Wash them down with a glass (or more) of the excellent local wines.

Crete, Greece

The largest Greek island is often overshadowed by Santorini, Mykonos, or Corfu. Though this is slowly changing with new stunning hotels and resorts having sprung up all over the island in recent years. Add to that the fascinating ancient sites of Knossos, Aptera, Gortys, Kato Zakros, to name just few.

The local food is outstanding, made from locally grown ingredients, tasty local cheeses, local lamb, pork, and chicken and of course fresh fish and seafood.

Stockholm, Sweden

Summer solstice, the longest day of the year falls around the 20th of June. In Sweden, this is the time when Midsummer is celebrated, the popular summer holiday. Locals will dance around the Midsummer maypole and there will be picnics, music, and folklore.

The Nordic cuisine has become more popular in recent years, and it’s not surprising. Beyond meatballs (which are delicious and should be on your foods-to-try list), there is an abundance of salmon dishes, pickled herring, and for meat lovers, reindeer tastes delicious too. On the sweet side, you can’t leave the city without devouring the delicious kanelbullar (Swedish cinnamon buns).

Cote d’Azur, France

One of the most popular summer destinations in Europe, June on the Cote d’Azur means warm and sunny weather while its not yet peak holiday season and visitor numbers are still bearable.

There is no question, the Cote d’Azur offers amazing food. However, June means the arrival of fresh summer vegetables, the first local melons and delicious cherries.

It’s also the time local food markets are brimming with zucchini flowers. They are used in many traditional dishes in the south of France. Personally though, I can’t get enough when offered dipped in batter and deep-fried directly at the food market. Foodie heaven!

The best foodie destinations in July

Peak summer travel time in many parts of the world, you need to carefully select your destination if you do not want to run into huge crowds or suffer from record heat. But don’t despair. There are great destinations with lots of delicious food experiences.

Okanagan Valley, Canada

It’s no longer a secret, Canada makes excellent wines. One of the leading wine regions is the beautiful Okanagan Valley, nestled in the southern-most part of British Columbia. With its hot and dry summers, this is the perfect winegrowing area.

Many of the over 200 local wineries not only offer excellent wine tasting. Food is usually part of the experience, whether it’s just snacks, or the wonderful fresh, organic food offered at the many winery restaurants.

Copenhagen, Denmark

Put on the foodie map by René Redzepi and his famous restaurant (yes, Noma) in the later part of the 200s, Copenhagen has since witnessed the opening of many more gourmet boltholes. Meanwhile, delicious locally caught fish and seafood, smorrebrod (the open-faced sandwiches abundantly topped with a wide range of food including delicious salmon), and Danish pastries are offered across the whole range of dining places.

For beer enthusiasts, it’s well worth looking beyond Carlsberg and try the local craft breweries.

Sussex, England

It’s summertime and while the region is known for dry and sunny summers, you won’t encounter too much heat.

The region is a newfound treasure trove of excellent wines (sparkling, mostly) and with it the local food scene has upped the game significantly. Go on a vineyard tour visiting the local wineries to sample wine, enjoy food pairings and the many new or upgraded hotels and vineyard accommodations.

Singapore

Want to savour street food at Michelin-star level? Then you have found your lucky spot. The local Michelin guide lists over 140 streetside kitchens.

Best Foodie destinations in August

August is peak summer in Europe and North America, with temperatures in recent years hitting new heat records in nearly all locations. As a result, you either chose some of the few destinations with still more moderate temperatures or head to the southern hemisphere to enjoy the local winter.

Lake Annecy, France

Located in the French Alps directly at the border to Switzerland, Lake Annecy is one of the locations you can expect temperatures to remain more moderate in summer. Which does not mean they can occasionally climb above the 30°C mark here too. However, exploring the little lakeside towns and take in the stunning alpine surroundings makes up for slightly hotter summer days.

On the culinary front, there is no shortage of choice, ranging from simple boulangeries selling the most delicious breads and croissants to the many local brasserie, and several Michelin-star restaurants. On the menu, expect local, seasonal produce, a lot of fresh fish directly from the lake, delicious Alpine cheeses, and yes, there are also local wines.

Edinburgh, Scottland

From the medieval old town to the Georgian new town, Arthur’s seat in Holyrood Park, Edinburgh and Holyrood Castles along with the quirky shop lining the main shopping streets, Scotland’s capital is not short of awesome experiences.

While it’s home to the highest number of Michelin-star restaurants in Scotland, don’t miss the exciting street food either. Whether you are one to go for the iconic haggis or not, what you should put on your list is a distillery tour in and around the city (and perhaps further into the highlands) tasting exquisite Scottish whisky.

Portland (Maine), U.S.

Portland, Maine is the acknowledged foodies dream city. Thus, there needs not much introduction. So, what can I say more?

The local food scene has branched out on seafood, but that’s what I would go for anytime. Most particularly, go on a lobster crawl. Or visit the lobster festival which takes place annually over four days from Wednesday through Sunday on the first weekend in August.

Nova Scotia, Canada

Moderate summer temperatures, breathtakingly beautiful landscapes, and whale watching on the coast. Who is not yet sold?

On the foodie list, include fresh sea-to-table lobster, scallops from Digby, oysters, garlic fingers (the local answer to pizza, topped with cheese, garlic butter, and parsley), and wild blueberries.

The best foodie destinations in September

We are starting to get into harvest season in many places around the world while the weather is usually still nice and warm. Thus, September is an exciting month for foodie travellers. Still, some destinations are just a little bit more exciting in September than others.

San Francisco, U.S.

San Francisco is your gateway to the nearby wine regions of the wider Bay Area. While you can drive directly to Napa, Sonoma, and the Mendocino wine areas from the airport, there are many (culinary) reasons to make a stopover at the city itself. Farm-to-table and sustainable dining options are plenty, with food coming from the sea and the nearby farms.

For all chocolate lovers (and thus basically everyone), the city will host the popular two-day Ghiardelli Chocolate Festival annually in mid-September. Located on Ghiradelli Square, right in front of the Ghiradelli flagship store there will be stalls offering a wide range of diverse chocolate products. If that’s not enough chocolate, there are interactive chocolate workshops, special tasting sessions such as sensory tasting and chocolate and wine pairing.

Franciacorta, Italy

The small wine region east of Milan has gained a lot of attention over recent years, albeit it remains among the lesser known. Mostly producing sparkling wines, Franciacorta is renowned to make the best bubbles outside of champagne.

Most wineries are open to visitors, and many offer awesome tasting experiences based on innovative food parings. Mid-September, the area celebrates its annual Franciacorta in Cantina festival over one weekend. Enjoy open wineries and the most exquisite culinary experiences.

Normandy, France

If you have ever been to Normandy in spring, you will never forget the whole landscape ablaze with apple trees in bloom. Stunning, indeed. Now, from mid-September, those apples will be harvested (through to early December). And with the start of the harvest, the region will be home to numerous cider festivals. If you are interested, you also get the opportunity to partake in harvest and learn how to make cider and calvados. Alternatively, simply follow the Cider Route and drop in to the local cideries for tastings.

Rheinhessen, Germany

Germany’s largest but still lesser-known wine region offers a lot of exciting food and wine adventures. September will see various wine festivals across the region, including the Red Wine Festival in the acclaimed wine town of Ingelheim. While many of the excellent wineries across the area offer both food and wine, and in some cases accommodation.

The best foodie destinations in October

It’s peak harvest month in wide parts of the world, which makes October the best time to travel if you are keen to visit harvest festivals. But even in October, some places are simply unmatched to others if you are a foodie and love truffles.

Truffles and Barolo in Piemonte, Italy

Italy’s Piemonte is no longer a hidden gem for wine and food lovers. Large vineyard areas and the local stars Barolo and Barbaresco might be the first thought. But Piemonte including its capital city Turin is more than wine. The birthplace of slow food, Piemonte is also growing some of the best hazelnuts in the world (don’t leave without trying the delicious hazelnut cookies, ice cream or the incredibly delicious hazelnut chocolate), and Turin is a wonderful destination to explore the local coffee houses along with the city’s bursting aperitivo scene.

Each year in early October (running until the first week in December) the Alba Truffle Fair kicks of in the small town of Alba. By now fairly commercialized, my recommendation would be to focus on a truffle hunting experience with a licenced local truffle hunter, and to seek out the delicious truffle menus at the local restaurants in the vineyard areas of the Lange.

Hit Istria’s truffle trail, Croatia

The Istrian peninsular, in the northern part of Croatia, comprising a small area in Italy and one in Slovenia, is home to black and white truffles. Known as the truffle triangle, the area nestled between the towns of Buzet, Pazin, and Buje offers plenty of opportunities to taste the delicious fruit (yes, it’s not a vegetable).

Larger in size then the perhaps better-known white Alba truffles originating in the Langhe area of Piemonte, Italy, Istria’s white truffle can be found from late summer to early winter, with peak hunting season in October. This is also the time when a range of truffle festivals take place.

San Miniato, Italy

The beautiful little town in the province of Pisa, in Tuscany, does not get nearly the accolades it deserves. Though some foodies will be aware it’s one of the prominent places where the delicious white truffles are found abundantly. So, go truffle hunting with your guide in the hills around town, then have a fantastic truffle menu, washed down with matching local wines.

Albuquerque, New Mexico

You won’t find truffles here. But the largest hot air balloon festival will take place for nine days in October, making for stunning views. Meanwhile, the old town, founded in the early 1700s as a Spanish colony, boasts an amazing historic adobe architecture, and is known to be hugely popular with artists from all over the world.

The city was elected as one of the Best Food Cities to Travel To by Eater magazine in 2023. Dining out, you have the choice of places offering New Mexico’s varied local cuisines based on native ingredients combines Mexican, Native American, and Spanish flavours, or a wide range of international cuisines, reflecting the mixture of people that have chosen Albuquerque to become their home.

The best foodie destinations in November

November can be tricky, weather wise. Or perfect if you find the right place and activities. So, pick your place.

Lyon, France

Known to be the culinary hotspot of France as it’s the birthplace of the Nouveau Cuisine, you won’t go wrong visiting any time of the year and find exciting reasons beyond food. From food halls/markets to rustic restaurants (the classic bouchons), and fine dining, choices are plenty.

The third weekend in November is Beaujolais Nouveaux release and both the city and the neighbouring Beaujolais wine regions will stage various events.

Canary Islands

A long-time favourite for European’s looking to escape the local winter, since the group of volcanic islands just west of the African coast offer balmy weather over the winter months. But did you know Gran Canaria in recent years has developed an amazing food scene too? Combining Spanish flavours with locally grown produce, you will find local sheep’s cheese, freshly caught seafood, and tropical fruits all find their way into the new, innovative local cuisine. And let’s not forget the local wines.

Sydney, Australia

Summer is around the corner, the weather is usually balmy, but beach holidays have yet to start, and the crowds are still on the lower side.

The capital of NSW in recent years has morphed into an outstanding foodie destination. From local food markets to small roadside cafes, neighbourhood bistros, waterside restaurants and fine dining, serving a wide range of international cuisines, Sydney ticks every box on your wish list.

Scottsdale, Arizona

Balmy day temperatures (albeit nights can be quite cool) make this stylish city with its many upscale pool resorts embedded into a stunning desert landscape a great place to break away from the European or North American winter.

The vibrant restaurant scene offers an intriguing fusion of traditional Southwest cuisine and Mexican flavours. And the pre-dinner cocktails are world class.

The best foodie destinations in December

T’is the time for Christmas Markets. And the best you will find across Europe. Meanwhile, December is one of the best months if you want to tick of the once-in-a-lifetime experience visiting the amazing gorillas in Rwanda.

Champagne, France

Thinking of Christmas time in France, I bet you will think of Strasbourg. No doubt it’s one of the most fairytale destinations in the world this time of the year. Without question, it’s also one of the most crowded.

Don’t worry. I have the most wonderful alternative for you. In December, head to Champagne.

The second weekend in December, Epernay’s Avenue de Champagne turns into an illuminated wonderland during Les Habits de Lumière. For this annual event, the beautiful mansions along the avenue will be illuminated by beautiful light show. Meanwhile, there will be street performances, Michelin chef will offer cooking demonstrations, and there are patisserie competitions and a vintage vehicle parade.

Salzburg, Austria

One of the oldest Christmas markets in the world, dating back to the 15th century, located in the UNESCO listed old town of Salzburg boasts a lot of different events and a range of mouth-watering traditional treats. Swap the obligatory mulled wine with a Jagatee (a hunter’s tea with rum), try a raclette sandwich, home made sausages, and a wide variety of sandwiches topped with pork and game meat.

The city’s coffee houses, beer pubs, traditional inns and gourmet restaurants are waiting with more excellent food, just in case.

Würzburg, Germany

There are thousands of Christmas markets across Germany, both large and small. While my preference goes to the small-town rural markets, of the larger ones, Würzburg Christmas market is definitely worth a visit.

The lovely Franconian city also boasts some of the most acclaimed historic German wineries directly within the historic town. So, if you love to combine outstanding wine experiences with delicious local food, beautiful historic architecture and Christmas market feeling, there is no questions where to go in December.

Kigali, Rwanda

Planning to visit the amazing gorillas in Rwanda? December is one of the best months to go as the drier weather offers the best trekking conditions.

While you are there, make sure to plan a stopover at Kigali to explore the emerging food scene. Characterized by farm-to-table experiences based on a wide range of locally grown produce and a growing number of young, innovative chefs moving to the city, it won’t take long for Kigali to rank among the best food cities. In case you are not sold yet, there is also an exciting craft coffee movement in its early stages.