The Best Food & Wine Itineraries in Europe

We've curated 6 itineraries that showcase the best of European wine and gastronomy culture across some of Europe's top wine destinations. From classic Bordeaux, to up and coming Croatia, each of these weeklong trips offers an irresistible glimpse into local specialties, and authentic ways to experience centuries-old cultures that make the old continent an enduringly great travel destination. 

#1 France: Paris, Bordeaux & the Loire Valley - 7 Days 

French wine culture needs no introduction, which is especially true for its classic poster child Bordeaux. This 7-day itinerary is a great introduction to some of France's classic highlights, including Paris, the Loire Valley, and the Bordeaux wine region.

Traveling by train, this weeklong French adventure covers three destinations with a focus on history, architecture, food, and wine. Start in Bordeaux to experience the city's UNESCO-listed streets and world-renowned vineyards. Then head to Amboise for stunning castles and gardens surrounded by bucolic landscapes. Finish with two nights in Paris and let local experts show you the quintessential attractions. Read more

#2 Spain: Ultimate Food, Culture & Wine Tour of Spain - 7 Days

Don't show up for dinner in Spain before 9 pm. For most locals, this would be considered on the early side, as the best dinner spots don't really get going until 9.30 or 10 pm. Spain's tapas, wine, and energetic nightlife won't leave you untouched and this weeklong itinerary from Barcelona to Cordoba via Madrid is a perfect way to experience the best of Spanish culture.

This week-long itinerary packs a lot of culture and activities into just a few days. The adventure begins in Barcelona with a tour of the city on foot and by helicopter. Then you're off to Madrid to see the city sights as well as attend an authentic flamenco performance. Finally, you'll head to Córdoba, a city known for beautiful medieval architecture and Moorish influences. Read more

#3 Croatia: Magical Istria: Motovun, Grožnjan, Brijuni & Pula - 7 Days

While Croatia might be best know for its beaches and islands, the region of Istria in the north is famous for its wine, truffles, and culinary culture. This wine-focused itinerary starts in Zagreb and takes you across the Istrian region to sample its treasures. 

The perfect week-long tour of Croatia's Istrian Peninsula starts and ends in Zagreb and includes a visit to Plitvice Lakes National Park. You'll have three nights in the charming coastal town of Rovinj, a great jumping-off point to explore its romantic countryside. Venture amid a sea of hills and valleys decorated with vineyards, olive groves, and medieval hilltop towns before discovering more of the coast, like the port village of Fažana, Veli Brijun island, and Istria's largest city, Pula. Read more

#4 Italy: Food & Wine in Bologna, Florence, Rome - 7 Days

Each of Italy's 20 regions prides itself on its unique culture and cuisine. No matter where you travel in the boot-shaped country, you won't be disappointed by its local culinary offerings. This 7-day itinerary has you experience the namesake of the famous Bolognese sauce (which has much more to offer than just that) as well as two of Italy's must-see cities: Florence and Rome. 

Eat and drink your way through Italy's famous culinary regions —Bologna, Tuscany, and Rome—on this packed weeklong tour. Start in Bologna, Italy's food capital, to try the Parmigiano Reggiano cheese and see the University of Bologna. Continue to Florence to see works by Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci, then sample local Chianti in a Tuscan winery. End your trip in Rome to experience Vatican City, Roman ruins, and the perfect Italian pizza. Read more

#5 Greece: History and Culture in Athens and Santorini - 7 Days

Santorini is one of Greece's top destinations, with travelers flocking to its famous caldera to see the sunset. But distinguished travelers know that this Cycladic island has much more to offer than made-for-instagram views. Its Assyrtiko grape thrives on the volcanic soil making for an exquisite white wine that pairs perfectly with local seafood. And this is just one of many great Greek wines. This 7-day trip lets you dive deep into Greek wine and food culture. 

Get to know ancient Athens and get a taste of island life on Santorini with this weeklong itinerary. Sample volcanic wine varietals in centuries-old vineyards, take a mythological tour of the capital, take a cooking class based on ancient Greek culinary methods, and more. Read more

#6 Portugal: The North & Douro Region - 7 Days

Portugal. Porto. Port wines. No other country in the world has its geographic names so intertwined with its most famous wine. Long overshadowed by its bigger neighbors, Portugal punches above its weight as it comes to wines and culinary culture. The Douro region should be on every wine lover's bucket list. This one-week itinerary is the perfect way to immerse in Portuguese gastronomy. 

Explore northern Portugal and the scenic Douro Region on this fantastic trip plan that lets you dive deep into the area's sights, landmarks, culture, and flavors. You'll tour Porto with the help of an expert guide as well as culinary excursion, then you'll head into the spectacular Douro Valley, one of the loveliest wine regions in Europe. Taste flights of Port wines or local table blends and relax by the water's edge. You'll discover the charming towns of Guimarães and Braga, and will spend some time in the fantastic Viana do Castelo, home to a quaint historic core and access to great beaches. Round out your trip with a fantastic excursion to Peneda-Gerês National Park for waterfalls and a picnic with an iconic view.  Read more