One of the true joys of travel is sampling a region’s cuisine. Tasting fresh pasta in Rome or the smoky notes of a mezcalita in Oaxaca is an incredible way to really savour a new place. Food encapsulates history, culture and tradition, all on a plate.
It’s also the perfect opportunity to take stock of the day’s new experiences. Sitting down for a meal or drink is a chance to pause and reflect on these new memories, crystallising in real time.
Some, however, even take it a step further – choosing their next destination based on the place’s food and drink culture.
If that approach to travel appeals, then you’ll be glad to know cruise and tour operator Riviera Travel have uncovered the best European cities to visit for food and wine based on their combinations of Michelin-starred restaurants, wine, vineyards and food tours.
Unsurprisingly, Paris took the top spot thanks to its impressive 519 Michelin-starred restaurants and France’s 51,782 award-winning wines. The French capital earned a near-perfect score of 117 out of 120 for those reasons, cementing its position as a culinary hotspot.
Whether you’re perched at one of the many outdoor tables in the hilltop former village of Montmartre with a glass of wine or grabbing a buttery croissant from The French Bastards, the city is known for its rich food and drink offerings.
In second place was Milan, scoring 108. Unlike Paris, Milan’s position was helped by its 688 available food tours – more than any other destination in the list. The cosmopolitan city known for fashion and history also boasts an impressive 130 Michelin-starred restaurants.
Outside its globally renowned fashion week, Milan is known for fine cuisine, buzzing cocktail and wine bars, stunning architecture and hidden gems.
Italy dominated the list with Rome and Naples in third and fourth place, thanks to their world-famous cuisine, authentic flavours and wineries.
Joanne Lynn, a Travel Expert at Riviera Travel, said: “For many travellers, food and wine are now a major part of the holiday experience, particularly during the summer months when Europe’s cafes, vineyards and restaurants are at their most vibrant. Our research highlights the incredible variety of culinary experiences available across the continent.
“While Paris leads the rankings, Italy’s dominance with six destinations in the top ten demonstrates the country’s enduring appeal for food and wine lovers. Whether travellers are seeking Michelin-starred dining, vineyard experiences or authentic local cuisine, Europe offers exceptional options for every taste.”
The best European cities to visit for food and wine
1. Paris, France
2. Milan, Italy
3. Rome, Italy
4. Naples, Italy
5. Madrid, Spain
6. Florence, Italy
7. Venice, Italy
8. Lisbon, Portugal
9. Verona, Italy
10. Nice, France
-antler-raffia-hero-image-june-2026-pr.jpg?w=145&resize=145,100&ssl=1 "Antler’s new raffia tote bag is the ultimate plane-to-beach chameleon")
