Best Foodie & Wine Holiday Destinations
For Summer 2025
Preston-based travel expert, Joanne Wilson, is back with her top picks for the summer
Summer 2025 is shaping up to be a dream come true for food and wine lovers. With culinary tourism continuing to rise, there’s no better time to pack your appetite and set off for some of the world’s most flavour-packed destinations. Whether you’re a casual grazer or a full-on gastronome, these top spots promise unforgettable tastes, textures and terroirs.
Sicily, Italy – A Gastronomic Capital in the Spotlight
Crowned the European Region of Gastronomy 2025, Sicily is a must-visit for anyone seeking a true Mediterranean feast. From street food in Palermo to refined seafood in Taormina, the island’s culinary scene is as diverse as its landscape. Summer visitors can catch the pistachio harvest and explore Mount Etna’s volcanic wine routes aboard a luxury train. Don’t miss the crisp, minerally Carricante wines paired with fresh swordfish or caponata.
Lisbon, Portugal – Coastal Flavours and Custard Dreams
Lisbon is having a serious foodie moment. This coastal capital balances tradition with trend, offering everything from rustic seafood taverns to cutting-edge culinary labs. Sample bacalhau (salt cod), grilled sardines and pastel de nata while sipping Vinho Verde or a bold Douro red. Wine bars tucked into cobbled alleys serve natural wines and pet-nats, ideal for a breezy summer evening.
Napa Valley, California – Iconic Wines and Farm-to-Table Magic
No wine lover’s list would be complete without Napa. Summer is the perfect time to explore the vineyards, from family-run estates to globally renowned wineries. Many offer tasting menus that pair world-class Cabernet Sauvignon with hyper-local ingredients. For something extra special, book a hot air balloon ride over the valley, followed by a picnic brunch and wine pairing.
Sifnos, Greece – Hidden Gem of the Aegean
Sifnos may be less known than Santorini or Mykonos, but for foodies, it’s a slice of heaven. The island is the birthplace of chef Nikolaos Tselementes, often credited with modern Greek cooking. Summer brings vibrant markets, fresh seafood and slow-cooked revithada (chickpea stew). Pair your meals with a glass of Assyrtiko and enjoy panoramic views over the Aegean Sea.
Mendoza, Argentina – Malbec, Mountains and More
For a southern hemisphere twist, Mendoza offers a wintertime wine retreat in July. While it’s technically winter there, the sunny days and crisp air make for idyllic vineyard visits. Discover bold Malbecs, artisanal cheeses and Argentine asado (barbecue) against the backdrop of the Andes.
Whether you’re chasing the best wines, local street eats, or immersive cooking experiences, summer 2025 is full of delicious adventures. The only question is where will your palate take you? Get in touch with me today to start planning your next foodie adventure.
Joanne Wilson
01772 915645 or 07798 910294
joanne.wilson@mytc.com
travelcounsellors.co.uk/joanne.wilson
