I’m a foodie at heart. There’s something about cooking in a new place that makes every bite taste better. Culinary vacations are my kind of adventure—learning recipes, exploring markets, and sipping local wines. After some serious research (and a few hunger pangs), I’ve picked five getaways that’ll leave you hungry for more. Here’s the lineup.
1. The International Kitchen – Veneto Wine Tours from Venice
The International Kitchen’s Veneto wine tours from Venice are pure bliss. They’ve been crafting foodie trips for over 25 years, and their Veneto tours are a standout. You might be making gnocchi in a Venetian villa or tasting Valpolicella wines in the hills. Their small-group tours include cooking classes, market visits, and cultural outings like canal tours. A 6-night trip starts at $3,650, covering meals and lodging. It’s the kind of experience that makes you want to move to Italy.
2. La Cuisine des Terroirs – France
La Cuisine des Terroirs in Alsace focuses on regional dishes like choucroute. You’ll cook with local chefs and visit vineyards or markets. The vibe is authentic, but the region-specific focus might limit variety.
3. Peccati di Gola – Italy
Peccati di Gola in Tuscany offers cooking classes with a focus on local ingredients. You’ll make dishes like pici pasta and visit wineries. It’s cozy, but the courses can feel intensive for casual cooks.
4. Le Calabash – France
Le Calabash in the Loire Valley runs hands-on cooking holidays. You’ll learn dishes like rillettes and tour châteaux. The hosts are warm, but the rural setting might not suit city lovers.
5. Cooking with Nonna – Italy
Cooking with Nonna in Puglia offers classes with local grandmas. You’ll make orecchiette or focaccia, with visits to olive groves. It’s super authentic, but the focus is more on cooking than broader exploration.
I’m ready to book a flight after this. These trips are about food, culture, and living like a local. I’m torn between pasta and pastries—why choose? Maybe I’ll just make a sandwich and dream of vineyards. What’s your foodie getaway vibe?