5 Must-Try Food Tours Around the World
Who doesn’t dream of seeing the Burj Khalifa, The Great Wall of China, The Eiffel Tower, or the Colosseum at least once in their life? I certainly do. However, I’m equally passionate about exploring the less trodden paths of a city, where locals live and dine. I believe this is the best way to genuinely understand a place and its culture.
When my family had the opportunity to move to the UAE, traveling and the chance to delve into new cultures topped my to-do list. I started Casey on the Corniche to share my passion for travel, culture, and food as I explore the UAE and beyond. There’s no better way to kick off my new blog than by sharing five international food tours that have inspired me and helped shape Monterey Bay Food Tours into what it is today.
Everyday Tour Company - Singapore
Everyday Singapore Street Art & Street Food Tour ($444.74 for 1-3 people)
Join P.S., a Singapore native and classically trained chef, on a tour of hidden culinary gems through Little India, Chinatown, Hawker Street Food Stalls, fruit and veggie markets, and the oldest Indian restaurant in the country, all in one of the world's cleanest and safest cities. P.S. manages the daily operations and leads most tours herself, keeping groups small (max of 6 people) for a personalized experience—no headphones needed. Be sure to have your camera ready, not just for the food but for the street murals and new friends you’ll make.
https://everydaytourcompany.com/
Woman-owned and operated
Sabores Mexico Food Tours - Mexico City, Mexico
Charming Colonia Roma Food Tour ($94.99+)
Try to carve out enough time for at least two food tours because there's so much to explore in Mexico City's food scene and its diverse neighborhoods. With five different food tours and experiences, plus a seasonal Dia de los Muertos tour, you could spend a week just on food tours. Huitlacoche risotto, carajillo cocktails, and the obligatory mole are a must-try. We joined Sabores Mexico’s Colonia Roma tour while my in-laws enjoyed their City Center Tour. Whichever tour you choose, you won’t be disappointed. The only thing I lacked was time; our guide shared so many other restaurants I wanted to try but simply didn’t have enough days.
https://saboresmexicofoodtours.com/
Frying Pan Adventures - Dubai, UAE
Middle Eastern Food Pilgrimage ($118.44+)
As a UAE resident living in Abu Dhabi, I often visit Dubai but hadn’t explored much beyond the touristic areas. Joining this tour was thrilling. Owned and operated by two sisters, Arva and Farida, who grew up in Dubai, they are dedicated to preserving the city’s food culture. This tour, set in their lifelong neighborhood, offers an authentic local experience, sharing dishes from various Middle Eastern countries and a behind-the-scenes look at their preparation. The amount of food and historical knowledge shared is incredible, and I even discovered a new dish! Prepare yourself for a feast.
https://www.fryingpanadventures.com/
Woman-owned and operated
Tours & The City - Bologna, Italy
Gastronomic Experience in Bologna ($86.71)
With tours in two European countries (Italy & Spain) and four cities (Rome, Florence, Bologna, and Barcelona), you’re bound to find a food tour you’ll love. We opted for a tour in Bologna, the birthplace of lasagna, pasta bolognese, tortellini, and more. Walk through Bologna’s beautiful arcades and squares with a local guide while discovering the local culture, cuisine, and, of course, wine. And if you’re anything like us, you’ll become instant friends with the other guests on your tour.
TrueVoyagers - Athens, Greece
Get a Taste of Athens Food Tour ($68.92+ pp)
The most economical of my favorite food tours is True Voyagers' Taste of Athens Food Tour. Paschal, the owner and operator, leads you through the back streets of three of downtown Athens' liveliest neighborhoods, in and out of markets, small shops, restaurants, and finally a distillery. You will taste traditional and regional dishes and discover many hidden gems along the way. They also offer an array of other tours outside Athens including wine, history and archeology.
https://truevoyagers.com/tours
What’s your favorite food tour? Let us know in the comments as we’re always looking for another one to try.
Follow my travel adventures with Casey on the Corniche or join us on a Monterey Bay Food Tour!