Travelling to Europe is often a foodie’s dream. There are so many delicious dishes and styles of eating on this continent. Whether you are trying out genuine cordon bleu cooking in a Parisian bistro or you are grabbing a bratwurst from a Bavarian Christmas market, there are so many things to try. Here are some of the things you should think about when planning the perfect European foodie holiday.
Budget
Europe can be an expensive place to get to but it can also be expensive to travel around in. Not only do you have to factor in the cost of train or flights, but you also need to decide where you are going to stay. Even staying in hostels and Airbnbs can add up if you are spending a lot of time there. You need to make sure that you are always going to have a good place to return to after you day exploring food.
This might be a once-in-a-lifetime holiday that you save up for over many years. If this is the case for you, you can begin to look into finding some other great places to stay. You also might want to look at activities beyond food so you have plenty to occupy yourself with.
Research the Individual Countries
While there are many dishes which are associated with a specific country, you should have a look at what you can find in some of the other regions too. You might discover a whole range of foods which could appeal to your taste buds.
For example, Paris is known for its many opportunities for fine dining. However, if you head down to the Southwest of France, you will find dishes which are simpler but altogether more delicious. In particular, cassoulet is a rich casserole from the town of Castelnaudary which has to be experienced in its home setting instead of elsewhere. Put together a list of foods which you are desperate to try and then go to look for their origins. This should help you to put together the perfect itinerary of places to visit and dishes to try.
Plan for Convenience
If you are planning a full holiday with no expense then you should also begin to plan for convenience alongside the trip. Many choose to visit the Greek island of Mykonos for the amazing seafood you can get here. In addition to this, you can also find amazing dishes like kopanisti and louza which are sure to wow you.
Mykonos has many restaurants for you to visit but it can also be quite busy depending on the time of year you visit. This island is one of the most popular and thousands of people like to pass through. Even trying to make a reservation in one of the top restaurants could prove to be tricky. However, hiring one of the many luxury Mykonos villas which dot the shoreline might come with its own benefits. Some of these come with the option to have a chef cook a meal for you in the villa. Opting for this will allow you to try the local cuisine without fighting for a spot at one of the best restaurants on the island. If this sounds like an option which appeals to you, these Mykonos villas may be a suitable option for you.
Be Brave
Visiting somewhere where the cuisine is very different from what you usually eat can feel intimidating at first. However, you should always try to step outside your comfort zone when you are eating. It could lead to you discovering an entirely new type of food.
Always wanted to try escargot or frogs’ legs in France? Find a restaurant overlooking the Seine and tuck in! Nervous about trying haggis because you know what it is made of? Take a wee dram of whisky in your Edinburgh hotel before tucking into a plate of haggis, neeps, and tatties. Heading into Portugal? Those with strong stomachs may want to try a bowl of Arroz de Cabidela. Sailing for Sardinia? You need to try casu marzu, otherwise known as maggot cheese. Any of these foods might take a moment to chow down on but they could lead to a fun tale to tell and some interesting mouthfuls for you to remember.
Get Ready to Experience New Flavours
The food in Europe is very different from anything in the USA but it is always made with love and care. No matter where you go, you will always find people who are proud to show off their national dishes. If you are thinking about going away on a foodie holiday, Europe is always going to be a great place to start. Think about some of the foods you want to try and then get ready to head away to try them now!
