Best Foodie Destinations for Every Budget
For travellers who love to eat their way through new destinations, the world is full of incredible culinary experiences—whether you're indulging in street food for a few dollars or splurging on fine dining. Here are some of the best foodie destinations for every budget, from budget-friendly street eats to luxury gourmet experiences.
Budget-Friendly Foodie Destinations
1. Bangkok, Thailand
Why It’s Affordable: Street food reigns supreme in Bangkok, offering flavorful meals for just a few dollars.
Must-Try: Pad Thai from a street stall, boat noodles, and mango sticky rice.
Where to Eat: Yaowarat (Chinatown) and Or Tor Kor Market.
2. Mexico City, Mexico
Why It’s Affordable: Tacos, tamales, and quesadillas are delicious, cheap, and widely available.
Must-Try: Tacos al pastor, elote (grilled corn), and churros.
Where to Eat: Mercado de Coyoacán and Taquería El Califa.
3. Hanoi, Vietnam
Why It’s Affordable: Bowls of pho and banh mi sandwiches cost less than $2 but are packed with flavour.
Must-Try: Pho, bun cha, egg coffee.
Where to Eat: Street vendors in the Old Quarter.
4. Istanbul, Turkey
Why It’s Affordable: Turkish street food and family-owned restaurants offer hearty meals at great prices.
Must-Try: Simit (sesame bread rings), döner kebabs, and baklava.
Where to Eat: The Grand Bazaar and Kadıköy Market.
Mid-Range Foodie Destinations
5. Lisbon, Portugal
Why It’s Worth It: Portugal’s capital is known for affordable seafood, pastries, and wine.
Must-Try: Pastel de nata, bacalhau (salted cod), and grilled sardines.
Where to Eat: Time Out Market and local tasquinhas.
6. Barcelona, Spain
Why It’s Worth It: Tapas culture means you can sample many dishes without overspending.
Must-Try: Patatas bravas, jamón ibérico, and paella.
Where to Eat: La Boqueria Market and local tapas bars in El Born.
7. Tokyo, Japan
Why It’s Worth It: While Tokyo has Michelin-starred restaurants, you can still eat well on a budget.
Must-Try: Ramen, sushi from conveyor belt spots, and okonomiyaki.
Where to Eat: Tsukiji Outer Market and Ichiran Ramen.
8. Marrakech, Morocco
Why It’s Worth It: Moroccan cuisine is rich in spices and flavours, and local markets offer budget-friendly meals.
Must-Try: Tagine, couscous, and mint tea.
Where to Eat: Jemaa el-Fnaa night market.
Luxury Foodie Destinations
9. Paris, France
Why It’s Worth It: French cuisine is legendary, from Michelin-star restaurants to world-famous patisseries.
Must-Try: Croissants, escargots, and beef bourguignon.
Where to Eat: Le Meurice for fine dining or a classic bistro in Saint-Germain-des-Prés.
10. New York City, USA
Why It’s Worth It: NYC has everything from cheap eats to luxury dining experiences.
Must-Try: Bagels, NYC-style pizza, and a steakhouse experience.
Where to Eat: Katz’s Delicatessen or Eleven Madison Park for a splurge.
11. Rome, Italy
Why It’s Worth It: Italian food lovers can enjoy everything from simple pasta to gourmet tasting menus.
Must-Try: Carbonara, cacio e pepe, and tiramisu.
Where to Eat: Trattorias in Trastevere or Ristorante La Pergola for fine dining.
Whether on a tight budget or ready to indulge, these foodie destinations offer incredible flavours for every traveller. Schedule a call with me today to find out which of these incredible destinations your budget will take you on next!