This is the best country in the world for foodies with seven cities named best for hands-on culinary experiences
12:34, 23 Feb 2026Updated 12:34, 23 Feb 2026
These cities are close enough that you can see multiple in one trip(Image: Getty)
For those who consider food the highlight of any holiday, there’s one destination that absolutely must feature on your bucket list. Research conducted by Titan Travel has revealed that Italy reigns supreme as the world’s top destination for food lovers, with seven of its cities recognised as the finest for immersive culinary experiences.
If mastering the art of authentic Italian cuisine is your dream, these cities are your ultimate destination. What’s more, many of these cities are situated close enough to one another that you can take in several in a single trip.
Topping the list is Florence, reports the Express.
This magnificent city brims with art, captivating history and an abundance of cookery classes to introduce you to the traditions of Italian cooking.
The city boasts an impressive 231 cooking classes, with a remarkable 74% of them rated four stars or above.
Top cities with best foodFlorence, ItalyPalermo, ItalyBologna, ItalyRome, ItalyVenice, ItalyNaples, ItalyMilan, Italy
If one city simply won’t satisfy your appetite for culinary exploration, you’re in luck.
These Italian cities are conveniently located close enough to visit several in just one day.
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For instance, Florence and Bologna are a mere 35 minutes apart by train. From there, Venice is only another hour and a half away.
This city has some of the best food in the world(Image: Getty)
Florence and Rome are just an hour and a half apart, as are Rome and Naples. You can also travel between Milan and Bologna in just an hour by train.
Cassie Strickland, Product Manager at Titan Travel, explained: “Today, travellers want to do more than just see the sights. They want to really experience a destination.
“Food is such a fantastic way to do that, because it connects you directly to local life and tradition.
“Taking a cooking class abroad allows you to do something, learn something, and return with a valuable skill.”
She added: “The most rewarding experiences tend to come from local chefs and family-run kitchens, where you’ll not only learn recipes but hear the stories behind them.”
Dining and Cooking