The Best Short-Haul Destinations For A Sun-drenched Foodie Holiday

When it comes to finding the ultimate gastronomic getaway, the sun-drenched shores of Europe provide plenty of food for thought.

With hundreds of years of culinary history and tradition, you can expect distinct and delicious flavours wherever you go and feast on authentic local dishes created using recipes passed down from generation to generation. Alongside the incredible dining on offer, Europe boasts many mesmerising beaches, charming cobblestone streets, quaint villages and spectacular natural beauty. Soak up the sunshine, immerse yourself in the ancient histories and cultures, shop in modern shopping malls and traditional local markets and much more. Water sports fun awaits in the Mediterranean Sea and Atlantic Ocean, while luxury hotels promise to whisk you away to a heaven on earth. Europe is a perfect destination to visit all year round. However, if you want blissful hours of sunshine, endless activities and attractions, relaxation, excitement, fun and of course unrivalled dining opportunities, we’d recommend travelling between April and September. Here’s a taste of our favourite European foodie destinations.

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Greece

Cosy family-run tavernas, al fresco dining on the beach and restaurants nestled in romantic harbors offering sea views are what visitors can expect on a foodie holiday to Greece. Greek cuisine is made up of three simple staples: Olive oil, bread and wine. With millennia-old cooking techniques and varying dishes across each Greek island, there’s something delicious to suit every holidaymaker jetting off on a Greece getaway. Dine on culinary delights, such as souvlaki and gyros, meat skewers or shaved rotisserie meat in a pita with tzatziki and salad; spanakopita, a flaky pastry filled with spinach, feta and herbs; or baklava, a sweet and nutty filo pastry treat. Greece is also famed for its tantalising wines, with lots of wineries located across this magical destination. Opt for a stay in Santorini, Crete or Kefalonia for tastings and tours as these are regarded as having the best Greek vineyards.

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Portugal

Alongside divine beaches and quaint city streets, a Portugal holiday will wow you with mouthwatering feasts and a deep-rooted culinary history. The nation’s location on the Atlantic Coast of the Iberian Peninsula has helped to shape its culinary traditions, with the spice trade influencing flavours thanks to ingredients from the East Indies, Africa and the Americas. Seafood, in particular clams, cod and sardines, also plays a huge role in Portuguese cuisine, so ensure you try delicious dishes such as cataplana, a seafood stew typically enjoyed in the Algarve. Pork, beef and chicken are also common ingredients, with Portugal's national dish being cozido à portuguesa, a medley of stewed meats and vegetables. Pair a pastel de nata, an egg custard tart, with an espresso for breakfast or as an afternoon treat. If you’re visiting the Portuguese island of Madeira, its annual wine festival occurs every September and celebrates traditional wine making with old-style techniques, picking and treading on the grapes – a great experience for wine enthusiasts.

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Italy

Influenced by the Mediterranean, Italian cuisine is made up of simple delicious meals that originated from “peasant cooking”. A holiday to Italy is the perfect choice for a food connoisseur as you can dine on outstanding dishes of pasta, pizza, risotto, lasagne and bruschetta, all enhanced by local herbs such as basil and oregano. Enjoy a sweet treat of gelato or tiramisu alongside an energising espresso, or take in the magnificent Italian sights while sipping on an Americano, latte or cappuccino. Sample the myriad of exceptional regional delicacies from the likes of Tuscany, Milan, Rome and Sicily and combine unforgettable flavours with rich history and culture, stunning sites, verdant nature and much more. Italy is also famed for wine and cheese – think parmesan, mozzarella and burrata on demand. If you venture to the bustling metropolis of Milan, make sure you dine in the second oldest restaurant in Europe, Antica trattoria Bagutto, which dates back to at least 1284.

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Canary Islands

Shaped by the cultural influences of Spain, Africa and Latin America, as well as unique volcanic landscapes, the gastronomy of the Canary Islands delivers a melting pot of delectable flavours. The Canarian diet is characterised by seafood, meats and gofio, a flour made from corn or wheat and used in a multitude of traditional dishes. With the addition of ingredients from near and far, and local produce grown amidst the volcanic landscapes of Tenerife, Lanzarote, Gran Canaria and Fuerteventura, the food and drink on offer will not disappoint. For a true immersion into dining in the Canary Islands, try ropa vieja, a stew of shredded meat, chickpeas and potatoes; or conejo en salmorejo, rabbit marinated in garlic, wine and herbs which is a speciality in Tenerife. Visitors can also enjoy tapas, like the simple and moreish papas arrugadas con mojo, potatoes boiled in sea salt and served with either a spicy or coriander sauce.

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Malta

Malta’s cuisine boasts an eclectic combination of flavours and influences from destinations across the Mediterranean and North Africa. This makes it a wonderful spot for an epicurean adventure. Unmissable local fare to sample includes Malta’s national dish, stuffat tal-fenek, a rabbit stew slow cooked in red wine and tomatoes; ftira biż-żejt, ring-shaped Maltese bread; and pastizzi, a flaky pastry filled with ricotta or Nutella. You must also try the delicious traditional honey rings loved by locals and visitors alike, qagħaq tal-Għasel. Beekeeping is one of the island’s oldest traditions, dating back to the Pheoncian period. Honey is such an important part of Malta’s cuisine that the island was originally named “Melite” after the Greek word for honey. For unrivalled dining experiences, Malta offers an array of delectable venues, including Michelin-starred restaurants, glamorous eateries, family-run restaurants and beachside bistros

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“Europe’s culinary reputation precedes itself and food lovers can jet off on the luxury holiday of your dreams to destinations bursting with mouthwatering flavours and age-old cooking traditions.

“Locally-grown produce, meat and fresh seafood make up most of the European and Mediterranean diet. Dine on signature staples from the jaw-dropping location and sip on tantalising wines, beers and cocktails as the sunsets on the horizon.

“Discover an array of family-run restaurants, cosy tavernas and quaint cafés, as well as luxury venues and Michelin-starred establishments. All offer delicious flavours influenced by the local history.

“Many of the outstanding hotels will include a host of incredible eateries too, making it easy for those who want to remain poolside or have travelled with children to enjoy the same exquisite meals.

“With Europe only being a short-haul flight away, there’s no better destination to visit for your foodie holiday.”

Angsana Corfu

A 5-star sanctuary which was among the nominatees for the Best Resorts in Greece in the Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Awards 2025, you’re guaranteed pure luxury on your Corfu holiday. Contemporary accommodation offers comfort and escapism with divine sea views, while the facilities will leave you feeling refreshed and revitalised. Enjoy dips in the outdoor infinity pool and heated indoor pool or experience an idyllic pamper session in the spa. The yoga and fitness studio will keep you feeling fit, while the array of restaurants will refuel you with delicious fare.

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Victoria Golf Resort & Spa

Situated on Portugal’s glorious Algarve coast, this 5-star hotel is a sun-soaked haven offering unrivalled family holidays. Not only does this resort boast child-friendly and adult-only swimming pools, but also an array of wellness facilities. Spend your days topping up your tan or relaxing with a sumptuous spa treatment while younger guests can make friends in the kids’ club and teens’ programme. Sample delectable global cuisines as well as local delicacies and locally-sourced produce in the many outstanding restaurants.

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Dreams Lanzarote Playa Dorada Resort & Spa

Gourmet dining, a world-class spa, elegant accommodation and much more blend together to create this ultimate 5-star paradise. Perfect for a family getaway to Lanzarote, guests can make use of the kids' club, sparkling swimming pools and exciting waterpark. For a relaxing retreat, opt for a yoga class or simply head down to the beach for unparalleled moments of bliss in the glorious sunshine. Elevate your stay by opting for a Preferred Cub holiday package, opening up a world of refinement and top-class service.

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Eagles Palace

The shores of Halkidiki welcome you on a one-of-a-kind Greece holiday. This 5-star resort borders soft white sand and crystal-clear waters, which provide endless hours of fun in the sun and water sports galore. The kids’ and teens’ clubs, playground and swimming pools will keep younger guests entertained, while grown ups can relax in the spa, get fit in the gym or experience Greece’s culture through cooking classes and wine tastings. Live music will wow you after you’ve enjoyed a delicious meal in one of the top-class restaurants.

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Eagles Villas

Discover the serenity oozing from this beachfront Halkidiki hotel. This 5-star Eden is nestled amongst lush foliage and boasts unspoilt sea views for miles on end. Experience the delights of the Mediterranean when you dine on mouthwatering dishes, where seven different restaurants are available to suit all your needs. There’s also a spa, steam room, sauna and hamman on hand to ensure you feel utterly refreshed, as well as an array of child-friendly amenities to make this the ultimate family destination.

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Cape Sounio, A Grecotel Resort To Live

Offering holidays that are nothing short of heavenly, this exquisite resort provides 5-star escapes in the lush Athens Riviera. With not one but two private beaches only steps away from your luxury accommodation, guests can enjoy water sports and relaxing days in the sunshine, as well as jaw-dropping sea views and the breathtaking Temple of Poseidon. There’s also a sea-facing gym, spa, multiple swimming pools and array of child-friendly entertainment to really make your Greece holiday special.

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Domes of Corfu, Autograph Collection

A crowning jewel of Corfu's sun-kissed coastline, this 5-star sanctuary is nothing short of luxurious. Located next to the idyllic Glyfada Beach, holidaymakers can relax under the scintillating rays of the Mediterranean sun while having an array of exceptional amenities at your fingertips, such as the beach club, water sports equipment, spa and beauty salon. Top-quality entertainment is on offer here, including discos, live shows and beach parties. Kids will love days at the exciting jungle and sea-themed splash park.

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Porto Elounda Golf & Spa Resort

Luxury awaits on the Greek island of Crete. Jet off on an unforgettable holiday to this beachfront resort with its own private stretch of soft sand and cerulean waters. Water sports and scuba diving should be at the top of your bucket list if you’re seeking adventure and scenery, while those who want wellness and relaxation will find that in bundles too. There’s the Six Senses Spa, 9-hole golf course, tennis and more available to help you feel truly relaxed.

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