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• A Foodie Guide To Sao...

A Foodie Guide To São Paulo, Brazil

São Paulo is a hot spot for foodies. The food of this Brazilian metropolis has been praised over and over again, yet the endless options combined with the chaotic layout of a city with over 11 million can leave a first timer overwhelmed and lost in the concrete jungle. Start your trip off with the tips below and you’ll be on the right track.

1. Mercado Municipal

The best place to start off your culinary tour in São Paulo is the Mercado Municipa l, a 12,600 square meter marketplace located in São Paulo’s historic Centro . At the Mercadão , as it is called by locals, you can find the freshest and greatest variety of produce and spices. Passing through the Mercadão’s fruit aisle is a delight, as vendors approach you to taste test their freshest fruit. The stands draw you in with their rainbow of fruit colors. Try the locally grown caquis (persimmons), mango and graviola. As you drift from the sweet aroma of the fruit aisles, the pungent scents of fish and calabresa begin to seep in. São Paulo’s Portuguese, Italian, and Spanish heritage is evident as you walk past dozens of olive oils, bacalhau (dried cod fish), savory sausages, and cheese. Head upstairs to have a real meal: the classics are the mortadella sandwich, a sandwich packed with layers upon layers of the delicious deli meat and pastel de bacalhau, a fried pastry stuffed with imported dried cod, green olives, and onions. The Mercadão has been open since the 1930s; on the weekends and around holidays it is packed with Brazilians from all over the country who come to purchase the best local and imported goods available. Despite the hundreds of people who visit the market, the Centro is a sometimes neglected area of the city by tourists because of its reputation. During the day the Centro is full of people.

Botecos in Vila Madalena Neighborhood

Brazil is synonymous with a good chopp – cold draught beer is taken so seriously here that refrigerators mark the below freezing temperatures on the outside. Luckily a good chopp is easy to find at just about any boteco; these neighborhood bars populate almost every street corner in the Vila Madalena neighborhood, lined up with charming décor and samba playing in the background. The bars on Rua Aspicuelta are especially packed on the weekends, with Paulistas spilling out into the streets as they munch on the greasy bar food with endless chopp and plenty of colarinho (beer head). Classics in the neighborhood include São Cristovão (Rua Aspicuelta, 533) covered in soccer memorabilia, Posto 6 (Rua Aspicuelta, 646), its name an homage to the actual Posto 6, a hot spot on the beaches of Copacabana in Rio de Janeiro, and José Menino (Rua Aspicuelta, 596) a two-floor samba-playing, traditional boteco with delicious grilled meat and of course chopp.

2. Bar da Dona Onça

Bar, Restaurant, Brazilian, Beer, South American

Underneath the undulating curves of Oscar Niemeyer’s Copan building sits a haven for Brazilian comfort food. Bar da Dona Onça serves no-frills home cooking in generous portions, alongside fruity caiprinhas. The menu includes a long list of rice dishes like arroz de bacalhau com ovo caipira frito , and bife acebolado . The restaurants caipirinhas includes the classic caiprinha – a cachaça (Brazilian alcohol made from sugar-cane), lime, and sugar cocktail to more exotic versions starring passion fruit, tangerine, and lima da persia (sweet lime).

3. Riviera Bar

Bar, Restaurant, Brazilian, Contemporary

4. Pastel de Maria

Pastel de maria.

The staple of all street fairs (feira) in São Paulo is the pastel: six inches of fried pastry dough goodness with your choice of filling. For the ultimate pastel, Pastel de Maria at Feira do Pacaembu (Open Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays) takes the gold star, having twice won best pastel in São Paulo with mouth watering fillings. Make sure to have the meat pastel or try the camarão com requeijão (shrimp with Brazilian cream cheese) and then drink a caldo de cana (sugar cane juice) mixed with lime or pineapple juice to seal the deal.

Praça Charles Miller, s/n (feira do Pacaembu), Pacaembu, São Paulo

5. La da Venda

La da venda.

Experience what it’s like to visit a casa da vovó (Brazilian grandma’s house). At La da Venda , reminisce about the simpler days with café coado (drip coffee), pão de minuto (scones), and homemade cakes. The highlight is their snowball sized pão de queijo or cheese balls, so cheesy and fluffy that if you love them enough, you can even take some frozen ones back home. The café has some outdoor seating and a shop where you can buy old school pots and pans, retro drinking glasses, and beautiful homemade bolos (Brazilian cakes). Bolo de cenoura (carrot cake topped off with Brigadeiro frosting) is an especial favorite.

Rua Harmonia, 161 – Vila Madalena, São Paulo, +55 11 3037-7702

Star City | © Helder Ribeiro/Flickr

6. Star City

Restaurant, Brazilian

7. Cantina de Castelões

Restaurant, Italian, Brazilian

There are many upscale restaurants to visit in São Paulo, but few manage to capture the Brazilian ethos as well as Maní does. Maní, short for Manioca, an indigenous word adopted by the Portuguese for Cassava, is a cozy, unassuming space. The natural light and rustic interior leads to a relaxed ambience where you can focus on the true highlight, Brazilian dishes with high quality ingredients. Try the peixe a baixa temperatura no tucupi , fish cooked in a sauce from the juice extracts of the cassava root, or the falsos tortéis , a pasta dish that replaces the pasta with pupunha, the name for the large Brazilian heart of palm. If you are feeling less adventurous there are also many prato feitos (PFs) available during the week for lunch, which are just as delicious and less expensive.

R. Joaquim Antunes, 210 – Jd. Paulistano, São Paulo, +55 11 3085-4148

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Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

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15 Incredible Day Trips from São Paulo, Brazil (A local’s Guide)

January 11, 2024

Paula Martinelli

If you are wondering what are the best day trips from Sao Paulo, Brazi you are in the right place!

My home town, Sao Paulo, is the largest city and one of the highlights of Brazil. It is among the world’s most populous cities, with a population of over 22 million people, São Paulo is also the largest city in the South Hemisphere.

If you are planning a trip to Brazil , you probably already know how big and busy São Paulo is – Therefore, if you have more time to explore Sao Paulo, or if you are visiting the city for business and have an extra day or so, I strongly recommend you to get out of the big city, and take at least one day trip from Sao Paulo.

Did you know that just as a short day trip from Sao Paulo you can get to pristine beaches, coffee farms, or even fascinating caves?

There are many options for a side trip from Sao Paulo, that most travelers do not even know about. But not you, because I am sharing with you some amazing day trips within just a short driving distance from Sao Paulo.

I have carefully selected these amazing 15-day trip destinations just outside Sao Paulo that you can do on a day trip, that will make you fall in love and will make you want to go back more times to explore more of the highlights of Brazil.

You will also love:

• Everything you need to know to plan your trip to Brazil
• Jalapao, the ecological hidden gem in Brazil

Day Trips From Sao Paulo | Essential Tips

In this guide for the Top Day Trips from São Paulo, I have selected locations that are within driving distance from the city center, and here is a list of handy information to help you to make the most of your side trip from Sao Paulo:

• BRAZIL TRIP PLANNING:  Start with this step-by-step guide with all you need to know before you go to Brazil.
• GETTING IN BRAZIL: There are several airlines for you to choose from, depending on your departure location. The airport in Sao Paulo is Guarulhos (GRU).
• CARRY MONEY WITH YOU: You will need it for the tolls as they do not accept credit cards.
• HAVE TRAVEL INSURANCE: I always say that it is a must for any trip you are going on. I use and recommend World Nomads.
• ACCOMMODATIONS:  If you are staying in Sao Paulo, or decide to spend the night in any of the places you are visiting, make sure you book in advance from a reliable source. I use  Booking.com  for any country I visit, and it works great in Brazil.

Transportation for your Day Trips from Sao Paulo

I have listed below some options for transportation if you are planning to take day trips from São Paulo:

You can get a 15% off your rental car when you book through this site . I use and recommend RentalCar because it is the most reliable rental car source, and it allows you to compare the prices of different places.

15 Top Day Trips From Sao Paulo, Brazil

1. jundiai: a short day trip from sao paulo to experience the rural charm of brazil.

• Highlight: Local lifestyle | Good food | History
• Distance from São Paulo: 60 km / 37.3 miles
• How to get to Jundiai: SP-348 (Bandeirantes) to exit 47 and SP-330 (Anhanguera) use sidetrack
• BEST TOUR: Coffee and Cheese farms at a Coffee Farm

Let’s start this list of the best day trips from Sao Paulo with the closest town, where you will find plenty of things to do. Jundiai is my hometown and I love to introduce this amazing place to anyone visiting Sao Paulo. If you are looking for a destination very near São Paulo, Jundiai is just a short and easy drive that takes less than one hour.

Jundiai is in 11th place as the most developed city in Brazil, and you can start your visit by strolling around the old city center and taking some great pictures of the old historic buildings including the City Cathedral.

Then you can visit some parks such as the Botanic Garden and Parque da Cidade (City Park) . Another option is taking a tour on the Grape Route to try some of the local wines and enjoy some of the local gastronomy. The nightlife in Jundiai offers great options for bars and restaurants.

Here you can also visit centennial coffee farms from the Golden Coffee era in Brazil, and have lunch at a traditional farm for incredible food and a large variety of dishes.

2. SÃO ROQUE: The best Sao Paulo day trip to sip some wine

• Highlight: Wine tasting/ Local cuisine
• Distance from São Paulo: 70 km / 43.5 miles
• How to get: Castelo Branco Highway (SP-280) towards Sorocaba. At exit 54-B, enter São Roque on SP-53/280
• BEST TOUR: Sao Roque Wineries Route

Sao Roque is one of the best day trips from Sao Paulo if you are a wine or a local food lover. You can explore the  Estrada do Vinho  (Wine Route), with more than 30 wineries in 10 km, where you can do wine tasting, try some of the amazing local cuisines, and enjoy the beautiful landscapes. It is a great side trip from Sao Paulo for couples or families.

You can start your day at the  Adega Terra do Vinho , which is located at the very beginning of the route, do some wine tasting, and visit the local store for some souvenirs. Then you head to  Vila don Patto , with traditions dating back more than 100 years, you can enjoy the local coffee and have lunch at the Italian or Portuguese restaurant.

The next stop is the  Destilaria Stoliskoff , where you will find things other than wine, such as tequila, vodka, and the famous  cachaça  (Brazilian rum). Another great place for a stop during your visit is  Vinicola Goes , one of the largest wine producers in Brazil.

3. MONTE VERDE: The best Sao Paulo day trip to see the mountains

• Highlight: Mountain views/ trails / gastronomy
• Distance from São Paulo: 164 km / 101 miles
• How to get: Via Dutra BR-116, towards Guarulhos. At km 13 take the Fernão Dias Highway and follow another 121 km until Camanducaia. Enter the city, follow the signs for another 30 km until Monte Verde.
• BEST TOUR: Monte Verde Jeep Tour

This is one of my favorite day trips from Sao Paulo. Monte Verde is located in the  Serra da Mantiqueira , (Mantiqueira mountain range). The altitudes range from 1800 to 2090 meters where you can see on one side the state of São Paulo and on the other Minas Gerais.

It is one of the favorite destinations for tourists who like to relax, but at the same time are fans of outdoor activities and good food.

If you appreciate great gastronomy, Monte Verde is the right place to visit. There are several options in the city, the most traditional is contemporary cuisine, Italian, and local from Minas Gerais.

Oh, and you have to try the amazing fresh trout at   Paulo das Trutas , it is to die for. Visit one of the incredible local breweries and learn about the production of handmade chocolates.

4. CAMPOS DO JORDÃO: Enjoy the Brazilian Switzerland mountain town and local beer

• Highlight: Local brewery/stroll in the city and parks
• Distance from São Paulo: 167 km/ 104 miles
• How to get: Marginal of Tietê, take Ayrton Senna (SP-70) until the end, which ends at Rodovia Floriano Rodrigues Pinheiro
• BEST TOUR: Full Day Trip to Campos Do Jordao from Sao Paulo

Campos do Jordão is one of Brazil’s highlights in the winter, and the preferred destination for the locals looking for a European feel destination, without leaving the country.

With a population of 50,000, it still manages to maintain the charm of a small town.

Some great options to explore in Campos do Jordao is to take a tour of many local breweries , take a train ride, go hiking, eat a lot, and even enjoy a walk along the charming main street of the city. 

The best part of town is that you can find activities for all ages and tastes , and you can explore the region during the day and at night go out to dinner or, who knows, enjoy a party during the high season.

Campos do Jordao is one of the top day trips from Sao Paulo, but it is also amazing to spend the weekend here. If you decide to spend a few days in Campos do Jordao, there are many options for inns and cozy hotels located in the middle of the mountains.

5) SOCORRO: Best side trip from São Paulo for adventure seekers

• Highlight: Eco-tourism / Adventure/ hiking
• Distance from São Paulo: 138 km / 86 miles
• How to get: Take the Fernão Dias Highway (BR-381), which connects São Paulo to Belo Horizonte. At km 22, enter Bragança Paulista and from there follow to Socorro by BR-146.

Socorro is located in the region of  Serra da Mantiqueira  (Mantiqueira Mountain range) .   The city is one of the best destinations near Sao Paulo for adventurers, with a lot of ecotourism options such as tree climbing, rafting along the Peixe River, and a long zip line, among many others.

The Angel’s Cave is also another great attraction, where you can enter the cave by a little pedal boat and enjoy the crystal clear waters. You also have the option to rappel inside the cave. This was my first time, and it was really amazing. 

Socorro also has great options for hiking and trails, such as the Pedra da Boa Vista , which is 1,300 meters high and attracts practitioners of trekking, rappeling, and flight with a paraglider. Another highlight in Socorro is the opportunity to taste the traditional country cuisine by tasting dishes that use ingredients produced on local farms.

6. BROTAS: The capital of river adventures in the State of Sao Paulo

• Highlight: Rafting on the river/water sports
• Distance from São Paulo: 250 km / 155 miles
• How to get: Rodovia dos Bandeirantes (SP-348) and go to the junction with Washington Luiz (SP-310). Follow it until Itirapina’s cloverleaf and turn left at Rodovia Eng. Paulo Nilo Romano (SP-225)
• BEST TOUR: Rafting Elite at Rio Jacare

This is a perfect day trip from Sao Paulo if you love adventure! Brotas is one of the highlights of Brazil for water sports! 

Brotas offers incredible white water rafting , going down waterfalls by rappel, and crossing valleys in zip lines that seem to have no end.

But Brotas does not live only on water, the city can be enjoyed either from the sky, on giant zip lines , or on ultralight flights. Or with adventures on the ground, on quads, horseback riding, or hiking (which can be combined with tree climbing).

Another great place to visit is the  Centro de Estudos do Universo  (Universe Center of Studies) , to observe the stars in one of the giant telescopes. Or visit the  Bairro do Patrimônio , with great options of waterfalls and natural pools, where you can relax and swim.

7. EMBU DAS ARTES: Best day trip from Sao Paulo for shopping

• Highlight: Local art/ Antique shops and galleries
• Distance from São Paulo: 30 km / 18.6 miles
• How to get: Régis Bittencourt Highway (BR-116), with access from Marginal Pinheiros, by Raposo Tavares/Rodoanel
• BEST TOUR: Historic Towns of Embu Das Arts , Galleries, Artisan Shops, Handicraft

Embu das Artes is a very easy day trip from São Paulo, making it a great option if you only have one day to get out of the crazy city, explore some of the local art, and walk around in a quitter area.

A little over 30 kilometers from São Paulo, Embu das Artes attracts many tourists because of its handicrafts and street art market, which brings together almost 800 exhibitors with paintings, handicraft pieces, furniture, leather, and fabric products, among many other items.

The street market takes place every weekend and holiday, from 9 am to 6 pm. Visit the historical city center , which offers restaurants, bars, workshops, rustic furniture stores, and art galleries. Check also the Francisco Rizzo Lake Park, if you like nature, the Jesuit Museum of Sacred Art, for a more historical tour, or the City of Bees, a great place to entertain children.

8. BOITUVA: A perfect day trip for extreme sports

• Highlight: Parachuting / Air Balloon
• Distance from São Paulo: 100 km / 62 miles
• How to get: The access is through km 116 of Rodovia Castelo Branco (SP-280) in the clover Boituva-Iperó
• BEST TOUR: Skydive in Boituva

Boituva is a great option for a side trip from Sao Paulo, with less than two hours of driving, and it is a destination for those seeking extreme sports.

Boituva is known as the capital of parachuting in Brazil , and it has a center for the practice of the sport with complete infrastructure and highly qualified instructors, with a total of sixteen schools that offer the tour.

If you are looking for an activity to do with a family, you can go fishing at the Hotel Boitupesca . If you are a Cachaça (Brazilian rum) lover, you will want to visit the Fazenda do Pinhal , where the local famous Três Coronéis cachaça is produced.

9. GUARUJA: One of the best Sao Paulo beaches

• Highlight: Beautiful beaches / surfing/ trails
• Distance from São Paulo: 73 km / 45.3 miles
• How to get: Leaving São Paulo, enter the Anchieta-Imigrantes system, go down the mountain range and take the exit to Piaçaguera-Guarujá Highway (Rodovia Cônego Domênico Rangoni), from a junction of the Anchieta Highway in the city of Cubatão.
• BEST TOUR: Day Trip Tour from Sao Paulo to Guaruja

I highly recommend this side trip from São Paulo as Guaruja is really close and a beautiful place to explore.

Guaruja has great options for restaurants, bars, hotels, and shopping centers. It is considered one of the best Sao Paulo beach towns , with 23 stunning beaches for swimming, tanning, or surfing.

The best beaches are Pitangueiras, Asturias, Enseada and Pernambuco beaches.

But if the idea is to escape from the crowds, go to beaches like Camburi, Branca, and Iporanga. The access is controlled by the condominiums at km 17.5 of the road to Bertioga.

Guarujá also offers ecotourism activities , such as trekking, cycling, rappelling, and paragliding. For the ones who prefer to walk and see gorgeous views, there are trails of several levels that take you to enchanting observatories and beaches. You can also practice climbing, surfing, and hiking.

10. SANTOS: The closest ocean city to Sao Paulo with amazing history

• Highlight: Beach/ Cultural tour
• Distance from São Paulo: 79 km / 80 miles
• How to get: From São Paulo, there are two options to go down the mountain by car: Rodovia Anchieta (SP-150) and Imigrantes (SP-160)
• BEST TOUR: Day Trip Tour from Sao Paulo to Santos

I just love the city of Santos, and it is located very close to Guaruja, making it possible to visit both on the same day.

Santos is just a short drive from Sao Paulo, and it is a great getaway from the big city. Enjoy the ocean breeze, go for a swim, or try some fresh fruit juice while you tan and enjoy the views.

Santos is one of the oldest cities in Brazil with a beautiful historic city center. Santos also has the largest port in Latin America. One of the highlights is the largest beach garden in the world , even registered in the Book of Records, with 5,335 meters long, full of flowers and 1,700 trees.

If you go visit Santos, wander the streets of the historic center on foot or by tram.  Also get to know the Municipal Aquarium , the Porto Museum ,  and the Official Coffee E xchange, which gathers in an imposing building, with panels and stained-glass windows by Benedito Calixto, a cafeteria, and a museum.

Another must-visit, while you are in Santos, is the Pelé Museum, a four-story building that tells the history of the Brazilian and of course, the story of the world soccer legend.

11. HOLAMBRA: The Little Piece Of the Netherlands in Brazil

• Highlight: Flowers farms/ Flower festivals
• Distance from São Paulo: 130 km / 81 miles
• How to get: Anhanguera Highway up to Km 86. On Highway SP-340, which connects Campinas to Mogi MIrim, there will be signs indicating Holambra.
• BEST TOUR: Flowers and Windmill

Known as the City of Flowers for being among the largest producers in Brazil, Holambra is a super charming destination, a great side trip from Sao Paulo.

The city has strong characteristics of regions of Europe and is a great destination for couples and families. Holambra was officially founded in 1991, with very strong European influences, mainly Dutch and German. The charming city has only 12,000 inhabitants, and with one of the highest Human Development Index in Brazil.

One of the most visited tourist points of the city is the United Peoples Mill, to celebrate the 60 years of Dutch immigration to Brazil. There, it is possible to observe the construction closely, visit its 5 floors, and learn how the place was built, with the highest mill in Brazil.

12. ELDORADO: Explore amazing caves just as a side trip from Sao Paulo

• Highlight: Caves exploration
• Distance from São Paulo: 300 km/ 186 miles
• How to get: Régis Bittencourt Highway (BR-116), exit 475, in Jacupiranga city, where there is a sign indicating “Devil’s Cave”

Eldorado city developed because of the search for gold in the colonial period and is currently the fourth largest city in the state of São Paulo. Recognized as a tourist resort, Eldorado has natural beauties that were discovered little by little, such as the Caverna do Diabo (Devil’s Cave) , one of the highlights in Brazil.

To visit the Devil’s Cave it is mandatory to have a Local Environmental Monitor. Every 12 visitors need 1 monitor which can be hired directly from the local association of monitors.

The Alto Ribeira State Park is considered one of the most important Conservation Units in the wo rld. It shelters the largest portion of preserved Atlantic Forest in Brazil and more than 300 caves . It is considered today a World Heritage Site, recognized by UNESCO.

You can also visit the waterfall of Meu Deus (My God) , which is at the peak of a trail, an amazing place to visit especially during a hot day.

13. ATIBAIA: The best Sao Paulo day trip to enjoy outdoors adventure

• Highlight: Paraglider / Hiking
• Distance from São Paulo: 65 km / 40 miles
• How to get: From Sao Paulo, take the Rodovia Fernão Dias and follow the signs to Atibaia
• BEST TOUR: 4WD One day adventure tour visiting Atibaia

Atibaia is a short drive from Sao Paulo and a perfect option if you are looking to enjoy nature and the outdoors, such as many options for trails and hiking.

Atibaia has many options for adventure sports , especially during the weekend. The famous Morro da Pedra Grande (Pedra Grande hill) attracts thousands of travelers who want to fly by paraglider, and besides a lot of adrenaline, also have the opportunity to observe the city and the Itapetininga Mountain Range from above.

The rocky formation is 1,418m high, with an area of 200 thousand m². It is possible to reach the top by car, despite the steep, slippery, and very challenging road.

If you prefer, you can go on one of the trails, with about 2h30 to reach the top – it is 2km of the walk and 800m of climb In the city center of Atibaia, there is Lake Major where you can find a large variety of options for restaurants, bars, and nightclubs.

14. CABREUVA: Great Sao Paulo day trip for peace and meditation

• Highlight: Meditation Center/ Buddhist Temple
• Distance from São Paulo: 86 km /53 miles
• How to get: SP-348 to exit 59, SP-300 (Dom Gabriel Paulino Bueno) take exit 84 and SPA-085/300 (Ver. José de Moraes)

Cabreuva is a charming town and a piece of nature and calm without having to go very far from Sao Paulo, with great options for nature trails.

One of the highlights of the city is the Kadampa Meditation Center Brazil . This temple is a great option and a place to visit if you want to get to know more about the Buddhist culture, or even have a moment of silence in the middle of nature.

There are several free activities open to the public – lectures and one-day courses are on the list. Even if you’re not a Buddhist it’s a great place to visit and also get to know a little bit more about Buddhism.

I also recommend visiting the Fazenda Chocolate (Chocolate Farm) where you can visit a beautiful colonial-style farm, pet some of the animal farms, visit the local store with some amazing products from fresh homemade deserts and cachaça (Brazilian rum), and also enjoy a fresh coffee and have lunch in the local restaurant.

15. COTIA: Visit the Zu Lai Temple just a short day trip from Sao Paulo

• Highlight: Buddhist Temple
• Distance from São Paulo: 30 Km / 18.6 miles
• How to get: Rodovia Raposo Tavares (SP-270), then take the exit toward Estrada Fernando Nobre around km 28.
• BEST TOUR: 6 hours Buddhist temple tour

Cotia is a great day trip from São Paulo to enjoy a quiet visit to the Zu Lai Temple.  The Zu Lai Temple is t he largest Buddhist temple in South America and will make you feel like you are in a film set with all its oriental architecture, Buddhist sculptures, and images, besides all the beauty of the monastery itself.

During your visit, you can enjoy a delicious meal at the vegetarian restaurant and visit the Buddhist Art Museum, a little souvenir shop.

Just below the monastery you can walk to the Japanese garden and take some time to enjoy the nature and tranquility of the place, the garden is all wooded, full of flowers, and a lake that completes the magical scenery.

The entrance is free and the place is a religious temple so you should pay attention to your clothing so as not to go dressed inappropriately. Besides the temple doesn’t allow any tripods or drones, and you are not allowed to take any pictures inside the temple.

Travel Insurance for your trip

I never leave my home without travel insurance which is designed to help cover your expenses if something goes wrong on your trip. Things can go wrong, and you don’t want to get stuck paying tons of money if you get sick or have an accident without travel insurance. 

World Nomads Travel Insurance  has been designed by travelers for travelers, to cover their trip essentials. Especially if you are like me, travel insurance is ideal for adventurous travelers. Travel smarter and safer – You can do your quick quote below and find out how little you can pay for the essential benefit of Travel Insurance for your next trip!

Day Trips from Sao Paulo Conclusion

I hope you enjoyed this list of the best day trips from Sao Paulo!

São Paulo is among the 10 largest cities in the world and the largest city in Brazil – If you are visiting São Paulo for a lecture or for business, take advantage of the proximity to some amazing destinations and take one of the day trips from São Paulo.

Here I have listed 15 great destinations for a short day trip from São Paulo, that you choose from based on your preferences: From sipping wine at a local winery, going on an adventure sky diving, or white refitting at a river. Or if you prefer to just quiet your mind, visit one of the Buddhist temples just as a short day trip from São Paulo.

I recommend renting your own car or hiring one of the private tours to explore some amazing destinations just outside São Paulo and get to experience more of this amazing country, Brazil!

If you have any questions or suggestions, just leave me a comment below and I would love to get in touch with you.

You will also enjoy these articles:

• 10 Easy Steps to Plan your Trip
• Brazil Travel Planning
• 21 Amazing Facts about Rio de Janeiro
• Angra dos Reis Travel Guide
• Jalapao Itinerary in Brazil

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6 thoughts on “15 incredible day trips from são paulo, brazil (a local’s guide)”.

Por estar inserida neste Estado maravilhoso, posso dizer com propriedade que tudo vale muito a pena, inclusive irá descobrir mais uma infinidade de coisas para fazer. Welcome to Brasil ??. Venha explorar…

Obrigada Patricia – Sim, o Estado de Sao Paulo é tão diverso e vale muito a pena escapar da loucura da capital e se aventurar pelos arredores.

Incrível saber a quantidade de coisas que tem para fazer tão pertinho de São Paulo, as always your blog is amazing and helpful ❤️

Eu moro na cidade vizinha a São Paulo e achei as dicas ótimas e atualizadas. As sugestões de passeios são ótimas. Parabéns pelo artigo!

Obrigada Lari 😉

Thank you my dear, it is true….tem lugares e uma variedade incrivel pertinho de Sao Paulo.

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Best Time to Visit

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Sao Paulo's Architecture

Food to Try

Best Restaurants

Nightlife Guide

Your Trip to Sao Paulo: The Complete Guide

On the Brazilian landscape, one city stands above the rest in gastronomy, shopping, nightlife, street art, and museum offerings: Sao Paulo. Here foodies come to try all the flavors of the regions of Brazil, dishes of its diasporas, and experimental projects by Michelin-starred chefs. Over 50 shopping malls, the most famous high fashion street in South America, and 60 specialized shopping streets for everything from electronics to wedding dresses draw enthusiastic buyers to its stores every day. Paulistinos (the city’s residents) party literally until dawn in its baladas (dance bars) and along the Baixo Augusta. During the day, world-famous museums like the Museu de Arte de Sao Paulo opens its doors, while cultural centers like the SESC Pompéia offer free activities for residents and tourists alike. Stroll through the graffiti art of Beco do Batman or see Niemeyer’s massive Modernist building Edifício Copan. Everything can be found here, except a beach, but even those aren't too far away.

Planning Your Trip

• Best Time to Visit : Come to Sao Paulo in the spring (September to November). During this shoulder season, days are long, nights are cool, and the city hosts weeks-long events focused on food, art, and entertainment.
• Language: Portuguese  
• Currency: Brazilian real  
• Getting Around : The Metro, Sao Paulo’s public transit system, will be the easiest and one of the cheapest ways to travel throughout the city; download the Moovit app for simple navigation in English. Avoid renting a car as traffic can be horrendous—especially for those not familiar with the roads. Instead, take an Uber or taxi, both of which are plentiful.
• Travel Tip: Most businesses accept credit and debit cards. Except for buying tickets to ride the Metro and in certain markets, you won’t need cash unless you prefer using it over your card.

TripSavvy / Jamie Ditaranto

Things to Do

Sao Paulo has bangin’ nightlife, world-class shopping and museums, and live music throughout its streets. See art and learn the history of Brazil, soccer, and the Portuguese language in the city's museums, or cozy up with a good read in one of its many bookstores. Behold the structures of Modernist architects like the massive Edifício Copan and drum-factory-turned-cultural center SESC Pompéia, or walk down Paulista Avenue on a Sunday afternoon when it becomes a giant pedestrian thoroughfare. Sao Paulo has the largest city helicopter fleet in the world, so hire a chopper for an aerial view.

• Wander Mercado Municipal sampling mangosteen, persimmon, dragon fruit, and other exotic produce from its 300 stalls. (Samples are free with no obligation to buy.) Afterwards, climb the stairs to the restaurant portion of the market and order a mortadella sandwich.
• Spend the day at Ibirapuera Park museum hopping between the Afro Brasil Museum , Museum of Modern Art , and Museum of Contemporary Art . Walk along the park paths, rent a bike, or sunbathe with Paulistinos in its extensive green fields. See buildings designed by Oscar Niemeyer, like the Oca, and visit the spaceship-shaped planetarium. 
• Visit the Museu de Arte de Sao Paulo (MASP) to see the genius of architect Lina Bo Bardi and art work spanning continents and centuries. Works by Picasso and Candido Portinari hang in glass frames in an open floor plan, removing any barriers from the viewers and the art. Check out what’s happening in the pavilion beneath the museum, which acts as a meeting point for impromptu concerts, fairs, and protests.

Explore more attractions with our full-length articles on the top things to do in Sao Paulo , important places to visit in Sao Paulo , and Sao Paulo's best museums .

Where to Eat and Drink

Sao Paulo has one of the most famous (and delicious) gastronomy scenes in the world, known for both its fine dining and street food. Regional dishes from all over Brazil, from the moqueca (seafood stew) of the north to the meaty farofa-topped barreado of the south, can be found here. Bite into a warm, crunchy coxinha full of shredded chicken; pop a cheesy, chewy pão de queijo; or try a flakey pastel. Order a mini-feast of feijoada from any neighborhood restaurant on a weekend, and after you’ve slept it off, refresh your pallet with an ice-cold açai bowl. In addition to offering food from all over the world due to its strong immigrant population, the city is also home to A Casa do Porco , an experimental pork restaurant with onsite butcher shop, and D.O.M ., which highlights regional ingredients from throughout Brazil using French, Italian, and Indigenous cooking methods.

Paulistinos love a cold, creamy chopp (draft beer), especially on weekend afternoons at botecas (neighborhood bars), which are plentiful in the Vila Madelena neighborhood. For something harder, the national liquor is cachaça, a sweet spirit made from sugarcane juice and the base ingredient in another famous Brazilian beverage: the caipirinha. Most bars will have these drinks, but to check out the microbrewery scene, head to a craft beer bar like Emporio Alto dos Pinheiros , one of the pioneers of the craft beer movement in Brazil.

According to Sao Paulo Turismo S/A, the official tourism and events company of the city of Sao Paulo, the tap water is drinkable  . However, it’s recommended to have filtered water instead. You can easily find mineral water at supermarkets, restaurants, coffee shops, and bars.

Explore our articles on the best restaurants in Sao Paulo , the top foods to try in Sao Paulo , and nightlife in Sao Paulo .

Where to Stay

The art-filled Vila Madelena neighborhood offers well-priced Airbnbs and hostels, colorful streets of graffiti murals, third wave coffee shops, local bars, and friendly bohemian artists. Staying along Avenida Paulista in neighborhoods like Bela Vista will give you easy access to the MASP and the city’s best nightlife strip on Baixo Augusta. Centro might be a little rough, but bursts with personality and contains historic sites like Edifício Copan, Mercado Municipal, and Cathedral Sé. Stylish and LGBTQ-friendly Higienópolis is food heaven with swanky hotels and one of the city’s best malls, all only a mile or two from Avenida Paulista. Further out, Brooklin Novo offers luxury hotels and shopping, good for business travelers wanting to relax. Pinheiros has cultural centers with fascinating free activities, art galleries, funky boutiques, and a park great for midday lounging.

Check out our recommendations of the best hotels in Sao Paulo .

Getting There

Sao Paulo’s main airport is Guarulhos International Airport (GRU) , where most international flights will land. Two other airports service the city: Viracopos Airport (VCP) in Campinas for flights in Latin America and Congonhas Airport (CGH) for domestic flights. The Tietê Bus Terminal links Sao Paulo with all major cities in Brazil via clean, comfortable, and cheap long-distance buses.

Culture and Customs

Pickpocketing is a problem in Sao Paulo, especially in crowded, touristy areas. Be aware of your belongings, especially if going to large markets or festivals. While some areas are fine to walk at night, others are not. Check with your accommodation about the safety of where you are staying, and when in doubt, this issue is easily remedied by calling an Uber. Walking during the day throughout most of the city is safe.

This is not the laid-back beach side Brazil you would find in Rio or Florianopolis. Sao Paulo is the financial center of Brazil and one of the largest cities in the world. Expect a much faster pace of life, and people letting loose at night and on the weekends after long work days. When dining out, service will generally be fast, and the tip is already included.

Money Saving Tips

• If you want quick, cheap food with lots of variety, go to a comida por quilo restaurant. Fill your plate from the buffet, then take it to the cashier to weigh it before you eat. You pay by weight rather than a set price, and it usually ends up costing the equivalent of a few dollars.
• Go to the top of Edifício Copan for free by lining up outside gate F any day at 1:30 p.m. You’ll be let in at 2 p.m. to head to the roof where you can see panoramic views of Sao Paulo.
• Take the Metro or a bus to the airport instead of an Uber or taxi. Give yourself a time cushion in case the transfers take a while.
• The 99 Taxi app is usually a little cheaper than Uber and just as reliable.
• Many of the museums like MASP and Pinoteca have free admission days. Others, like MIS and the Museu Afro Brasil, are fee all the time.
• For free, quality entertainment, go to a centro culturai (cultural center). Sao Paulo contains about 40 cultural centers showcasing exhibitions, theater, art, concerts, debates, and more.
• Check out Mamba Negra free music parties in abandoned buildings throughout the city.
• Visit outside of high season (December to March) for cheaper accommodation.

São Paulo Turismo S/A. "FAQ: What is the language that the people of São Paulo (Paulistanos) speak?"

São Paulo Turismo S/A. "Practical Guide: Currency and Exchange."

São Paulo Turismo S/A. "FAQ: Is Tap Water Drinkable?"

Nightlife in Sao Paulo: The Best Bars, Clubs, & More

5 Best Art Museums in Brazil

A Complete Guide to the Architecture in Sao Paulo

15 Top Things to Do in São Paulo, Brazil

The Top 10 Museums in Sao Paulo

The Best Time to Visit Sao Paulo

Important Places to Visit in São Paulo, Brazil

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How to Plan a Food Trip

Close your eyes. Think about your favourite city or place to visit. Now, imagine a food you love passionately. I’m sure you smiled! That’s it, eating and travelling are things that really move us. Well, that is what Food Travel means. Is there a better thing than to combine these two passions in a culinary trip?

What is Food Travel

Food Travel means moving around with the aim of exploring a destination gastronomic offer . Exploring the pleasures of the table has always been associated with moments of leisure, but on a gastronomic trip, the culinary experience is no longer just a complement but the main motivation in choosing a destination and in the way of exploring it .

In general, it means travelling to do food tourism , which we define as follows:

Food tourism is composed of activities that provide experiences of consumption and appreciation of food and beverages, presented in such a way that value the history, the culture and the environment of a particular region. by Food’n Road

Why Food Travel?

What we want to highlight is that, in practice, when we combine travel with gastronomy, there is a whole set of experiences and learnings about the history, traditions, environment and local culture that go beyond taste. Realizing this is life-changing!

Food and Travel, an experience we never forget

On a trip, we want to have different experiences from our daily lives. These experiences become remarkable when you feel connected with them. That’s exactly how food plays its role.

The bond with food is a universal language, after all, no matter where you came from, food is certainly part of your history. That is why every travel memory always comes with a flavour .

The experience is for everyone

It is a mistake to think that this type of trip is only for those who like to (and can) eat in renowned restaurants, or visit expensive wineries. The food tourism industry is creative and aware of the interests of travellers.

Best of all, it is a democratic and flexible way of travelling. Nowadays, you can easily explore a gastronomic culture in different ways: in the countryside or in the city, individually or in groups, with luxury, with adventure. There is a broad range of options for all budgets and tastes.

We should not fail to mention that technology has also helped a lot of people who are looking for food experiences during a trip. Today, you can easily find online restaurant reviews, menu translation, independent guides, local dining platforms, and more.

For example, how about including a cooking class on your next trip? In addition to having fun while learning traditional dishes, you can cook these dishes when you return home, and remember the trip while sharing the experience with friends and family.

Want more ideas? Check out the list below with some examples of what to do on a culinary trip .

Activities in Food Tourism:

• Take a street food tour;
• Tasting of local dishes and beverages;
• Follow regional product routes (e.g. travel on wine or coffee routes);
• Eat at traditional restaurants;
• Share meals with local people;
• Participate in culinary events and festivals;
• Visit local markets;
• Learn about the production of food by visiting farms and artisan producers;
• Participate in cooking classes;
• Visit exhibitions that explain the history of local cuisine;
• Culinary expeditions with chefs and specialists.

If you want to understand each of these activities in detail, we have written another article that explains the main activities of food tourism .

How to Food Travel

You can choose between an immersive food trip, where the entire itinerary is centred on the culinary experiences of the destination, or just include some food tourism activities to complement your itinerary .

But, regardless of your travel style, there is a secret to unlock the full potential of food tourism: Curiosity!

Try to understand not only what people eat, but why they eat in one way or another, what are the local ingredients, what is the story behind the food they prepare. Ask, interact, taste and smile.

How to Plan a Culinary Trip

You can plan a culinary trip independently or through agencies. And whatever your choice is, Food’n Road will help you .

To begin with, get inspired by our Food and Travel blog and explore food destinations with guides and content from each country.

After choosing the destination of your next trip, we suggest two paths :

If you want to plan your itinerary independently, visit our marketplace to find and book experiences , we handpick the best food tourism activities and tours from around the world .

Now, if you want a true gastronomic journey adapted to your taste, we suggest our Food Travel Design service to make a completely customized itinerary for you .

It makes a difference to go beyond the plate

On a culinary trip, you end up learning a lot about the local culture and the best, directly with the residents, exchanging information, trying new flavours and having fun.

During our travels, something that always strikes us is to notice the similarities between the cuisine of distant countries and how the same ingredients are used in such different ways.

For example, have you ever wondered how important the chilli pepper is for Asian cuisine even though it is a native ingredient from the Americas? With each trip, a new discovery!

Food Travel is much more than travelling to eat

We can learn a lot on a trip like this, meet people with different realities from the ones we live in, see other lifestyles, and encourage the preservation of heritage and traditions .

By sharing the table with local people, listening to their stories and talking about typical dishes, you will feel part of the place and will appreciate aspects that were previously unknown. 

On your next trip, try to learn about the destination by exploring the local cuisine and I am sure you will never forget this experience.

Count on Food’n Road to plan your next culinary journey and have a nice trip!

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• Tripadvisor

• The Ultimate Foodie Tour of Spain

Eight days group tour through Madrid, La Rioja, the Basque Country and Barcelona

2024 Tour Dates

May 19 th  to 26 th November 3 rd  to 10 th

Experience what’s cooking in Spain joining us in this once-in-a-lifetime culinary tour through Madrid, La Rioja, the Basque Country and Barcelona. The perfect trip for foodie travelers willing to join a small group in Spain to cook, eat, drink, laugh and make new friends!

This is a small group tour with limited space available… don’t wait too long to book! 

In case you had to change plans… cancelling your booking is free up to 60 days in advance

We’ve been running this culinary tour since 2012, with truly positive feedback from the clients who have enjoyed it – see what they say…

What they say

What are you waiting for? this is the trip of a lifetime! You’ll never be able to replicate this yourself… run to book – you will have one of the best travelling experiences ever.

Travel to all Spain’s foodie favourites on A Taste of Spain’s Ultimate Foodie Tour

I am grateful that I stumbled upon A Taste of Spain. The trip was absolutely amazing, exceeding my expectations in so many ways! This is the first time I’ve gone a trip with a group, I would definitely travel with you again and will recommend to all my foodie friends

If you have any doubts about doing this tour I am here to assure you that it meet all of my expectations plus some. I travelled solo so I was a little apprehensive but all my doubts were expelled as soon as I met the tour guide and the others in the group.

Roll out your culinary map; this tour covers all bases – from Madrid, to La Rioja, the Basque Country and Barcelona.

Thank you for organizing an amazing trip. I never traveled on tour groups in the past but I must say if they are like this I would go without doubt or concern

This tour is one of the best I have ever been on. The group was small and the people were all very friendly. I would fully recommend this tour to anyone who wants just the right mix of history, food and wine and wanting a great time

Great tour… if you go home hungry or sober its your own fault!

Savor the great food which Spain is famous for: from Tapas and Paella to Basque Gastronomic Societies and avant-garde cuisine

Immerse yourself in the vibrant culinary and cultural scene of Madrid, San Sebastian and Barcelona – staying at 4* centrally located hotels

Visit the colourful Boqueria food market with our local expert chef, and join him in a hands-on Mediterranean cooking class

Enjoy a truly genuine foodie experience at a members-only Gastronomic Society in the Basque Country

Taste and learn about extraordinary Rioja and Cava wines through private visits to small, family-run wineries

Discover the fascinating world of Ibérico ham and Sherry wines on a special meal themed around these extraordinary products

Savor delicious Basque Pintxos joining locals on a bar crawl in San Sebastian

Experience the diverse cultures, landscapes and foods of Spain by the hand of our expert local guide

Available from 3,500 Euros per person

(Land only, double occupancy)

May 19 th to 26 th

November 3 rd to 10 th

From 10 to 16 people

Adapt this Tour

If you’d like to stay longer in Spain, before or after this tour, we’ll be pleased to program just for you add-on activities in/around Madrid or Barcelona, as well as extended private itineraries through Andalusia , Galicia or elsewhere in Spain…

We’re happy to adapt, combine, even custom-design, our tours and activities to meet your preferences

Contact us , even if you don’t find exactly what you’re after – we like to be challenged!

To reserve space on this tour please fill in the form below or e-mail us at [email protected] We will get back to you as soon as possible to confirm your booking.

Select your tour dates * Select your tour dates* May 19 to 26 2024 November 3 to 10 2024

Number of persons *

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The 15 best foodie tours in the usa.

Savor fresh seafood, authentic Tex-Mex and more during one of these highly regarded outings.

(Getty Images) |

Consider these gourmand-approved excursions when visiting America's top culinary spots.

Savannah Taste Experience: Savannah, Georgia

Sonoma Food Tour: Sonoma, California

Austin Eats Food Tours: Austin, Texas

Bite San Diego: San Diego

Walk Eat Nashville: Nashville, Tennessee

Taste of Houston Food Tours: Houston

(Jamie Francis | Courtesy of TravelPortland.com)

Forktown Food Tours: Portland, Oregon

Savor Seattle Food Tours: Seattle

Charleston Culinary Tours: Charleston, South Carolina

Gourmet Food and Wine Tours: Napa Valley

Melting Pot Food Tours: Los Angeles

Foods of New York Tours: New York City

Chicago Food Planet: Chicago

Doctor Gumbo Tours: New Orleans

Local Tastes of the City Tours: San Francisco

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

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Food Tours & Vacations

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Uncover a world of authentic, mouth-watering food.

Food not only brings people together, it anchors you in the present moment. That’s why years after a trip, you can still remember the taste of fresh, juicy olives in Greece , or the fragrant smell of pho simmering on the stove in Vietnam . By pairing the classic grassroots Intrepid travel style with a focus on food, you’ll get under the skin of the world's most exciting food cultures. It might be spoiling your tastebuds with flavor-filled curries in  Sri Lanka , mastering the art of making soba noodles in  Japan  or sharing a meal with Buddhist monks in  South Korea .

Created with the culinarily curious in mind, these are real, local experiences with a foodie twist: one part culture, one part adventure and three parts delicious. From bite-sized trips to gastronomic odysseys, we’ll get you munching, crunching, sipping and slurping just like the locals. Hungry? Join us!

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Why choose intrepid.

Real, authentic experiences

We love the highlights, but for us the real magic is found off the tourist trails. Our trips combine iconic sites with hidden gems that you’ll only discover with Intrepid. We’re talking mornings exploring the Taj Mahal, followed by a Mughlai cooking class with a passionate home cook.

Local expertise

Whether you’re perusing markets, hunting down the best street food bites or learning how to cook centuries-old family recipes at a homestay, there’s no better way to get the inside scoop on a destination – and its culinary traditions – than with an expert local leader by your side.

Small groups

Big coaches and flag-toting tour guides don’t cut it for us. With a maximum group size of 12, our groups blend in with the locals and have plenty of opportunities to interact with chefs, street food vendors and group leaders. It also means you can really connect with your fellow foodies.

Must-try dishes around the world

Peru – ceviche

Ceviche is the unofficial national dish of Peru. It's made by marinating cubes of raw fish and seafood in lime juice, onions, salt and aji amarillo chilli peppers, and is served cold with sweet potato chunks, plantain chips and corn on the cob.

Spain – paella

This saffron-flavored rice dish originated in Valencia hundreds of years ago when hungry servants would combine rice with leftovers from Moorish kings' lavish banquets. The dish varies across the regions, but the mixed version with chorizo, mussels and prawns is the most popular internationally.

India – thali

Struggling to choose just one curry? Fear not. A thali comprises several eye-popping dishes served on a large plate. The dishes typically include grains, lentils, vegetables or meat curries, chutney, raita, pickles and pappadum – creating the perfect balance of sweet, salty, bitter, sour, astringent and spicy flavors.

Balkans – cured meats and cheeses

When traveling through the Balkans, treat your tastebuds to delicious charcuterie boards loaded with traditionally preserved meats, cheeses, vegetables and bread. Some of the most popular Balkan meats to try include cevapi (homemade grilled sausage), njeguši (dry-cured ham) and pljeskavica (Balkan burger).

Israel & Palestinian Territories – falafel

Considered to be Israel’s national dish, these balls of deliciousness (made with ground chickpeas, herbs and spices) are a must-try plant-based dish. They’re usually served on a platter or in a warm pita pocket filled with pickled vegetables, crunchy cabbage salad and generous lashings of creamy tahini sauce.

Thailand – khao soi

There’s a whole world of Thai noodle dishes to discover beyond the obvious (and delicious!) pad thai. Khao soi is a chicken and coconut noodle soup from northern Thailand. It’s packed with vibrant aromatics and is served with crispy fried noodles, shallots and fresh lime wedges on top.

Food tour highlights

Asia’s answer to Seoul food

Hit South Korea to wash down crunchy Korean Fried Chicken (aka KFC) with a glass of soju, share a traditional plant-based meal with Buddhist monks at your monastery stay, and get the inside sip on Busan’s bustling craft beer scene at a brewery.

Find out more

Pilgrimage through the Portuguese plate

Head to Iberia to cook up a Galician feast using Vigo’s finest seafood, sip world-class wines in the spectacular Douro Valley wine region, sip Ginjinha while snacking on petiscos, and discover Portugal’s best-kept foodie secret – the Alentejo countryside.

Temples to tempura, shrines to sashimi

Journey to Japan to discover the country's most delicious foodie hotspots. Feel like a real Iron Chef during an ‘Art of Sushi’ masterclass, experience the seasonal flavors of obanzai ryori at a cooking class, and enjoy the simple and delicious flavors of monastic cuisine in Koya-san.

Master Morocco’s medina flavors

Make your way to Morocco and enjoy a home-cooked dinner with a family in Chefchaouen, share a Berber meal at a desert camp in the Sahara, watch ras el hanout being freshly ground in a Marrakech spice souk, and eat mechoui (slow-roasted lamb) cooked in an earth oven.

Enjoy mouthwatering Mexican food

Get a true taste of Mexico in some of the country’s most famous culinary regions. Enjoy a tasty taco feast in Mexico City, visit a traditional mezcaleria to learn about this famous Oaxacan tipple, feast on fresh seafood at a cooking class in Huatulco and maybe sample the surprisingly delicious delicacy of chapulines (grasshoppers).

Savor vibrant Vietnamese flavors

Chop, slice and slurp your way through Vietnam on a culinary quest from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City. Cook up regional dishes like cao lau noodles in Hoi An, tour Hue on a motorbike followed by a plant-based lunch at a pagoda, and feast on southern Vietnamese specialties at a Mekong Delta homestay.

Introducing vegan food tours

Tour reviews

Food tour faqs, what food can i expect.

Expect to eat the local way. We don't call these trips ‘food adventures’ for nothing. Forget Michelin stars and 20-course degustations – our local leaders will help you get behind the scenes of local food culture, track down the freshest street food, discover the most authentic local restaurants and reveal the traditions and techniques that make these destinations so deliciously mouth-watering. From lining up with locals for fresh tortillas in a Mexican market to hopping between Logrono’s thriving tapas bars, they’ll show you local food from the perspective of those who eat it every day.

How does a Food Adventure differ to a regular Intrepid trip?

All of our food trips have been designed with one thing in mind – experiencing the best local food on the planet. But we all know that there’s much more to food than just eating it – so whether it’s browsing markets for fresh produce, sizzling up a storm in a cooking class or meeting a local street-food legend, we’ve stuffed your plate to the brim. And once you’ve devoured all the local food you can handle, we’ve made sure our Food Adventures are rolled up into a burrito with the lot so you won’t miss out on the iconic sights and authentic cultural experiences that are found on all our Intrepid trips.

Is there any freedom & flexibility in the itineraries?

Like all Intrepid itineraries, we’ve made sure our food trips provide free time between activities, allowing you to digest a destination either with your group or on your own. You might spend the morning exploring a buzzing local market with your guide and cooking a delicious local dish with your group before heading off on your own to wander the marbled halls of a museum or cycling through ancient alleys.

We’ve also left plenty of mealtimes free of organized activities, which gives you the flexibility to ‘get your gourmet on’ at a fine dining restaurant or simply seek out your own ‘real food’ adventure. Needless to say, your leader will be there every step of the way with suggestions and recommendations.

What transport is used?

Sometimes, the best way to eat like a local is to travel like one too. That could mean jumping on a boat to discover the flavors of the Mekong Delta, riding the Tokyo subway to a sake bar or rattling along in a rickshaw in pursuit of Agra’s finest chaats. We love to use local transport because it gives us a chance to experience everyday local life from a new perspective.

What is the accommodation like?

Whether you’re spending the night in an ancient fortress or in the home of a local family, most of our trips include a memorable overnight stay that is designed to make your trip extra memorable. When we do choose to use hotels, all of our accommodation options are in our Original style, which means a mix of 2-3 star establishments that are safe, clean and comfortable.

How do Intrepid's Food Adventures benefit local communities?

We help support local economies by purchasing snacks and meals from street-side vendors, dining in local restaurants, eating seasonal produce from the destination, and using local guides throughout our itineraries. Many of our trips incorporate visits to community projects, and we choose locally-owned accommodation wherever possible. We are committed to a style of travel that is culturally, environmentally and socially responsible.

Why does every Food Adventure include a plant-based meal?

Plant-based foods generally have a much lower carbon footprint than animal-based foods, and incorporating more plant-based eating into our diet is a major opportunity to mitigate and adapt to climate change. As Intrepid continues to innovate in ways that promote and support sustainability, including a delicious meal that showcases local fruit, vegetables, nuts and seeds is just one way that we are investing in the health of our planet.

What about vegan travelers?

We do our best to accommodate dietary requirements (including vegan diets) on all of our trips, and all our Real Food Adventures will include at least one plant-based meal. If you want a more tailored experience, that's where our Tailor-Made team can step in. We can use our 30 years of experience and regional specialists to help you create your perfect vegan food adventure.

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EAT LIKE A LOCAL

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What is foodietrip, foodietrip is a sunday funday brooklyn boozy brunch, foodietrip is an afternoon cooking session with world famous chefs in rome, foodietrip is getting a caffeine jolt from tasting real turkish coffee for the first time, foodietrip is drinking a late night cold beer in a bustling tokyo street, foodietrip is sipping a midday cocktail in a hidden barcelona cafe, available destinations, popular tours around the world.

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THE 10 BEST Restaurants in Barcelona

Restaurants in barcelona, establishment type, special offers, online options, traveler rating, michelin guide, dietary restrictions, restaurant features, neighborhood.

• Jara Sushi Degustación
• La Gastronomica Burgers
• La Parrillada
• Tino, esto no es una pizza
• Bella Italia

LE PASS FOOD TRIP PARIS

DÉCOUVREZ PARIS AVEC LE VENTRE

Prolongation jusque juillet 2025.

LE FOOD TRIP PARIS

Le tour gourmand autoguidé pour découvrir les délices culinaires de la capitale.

30 PRODUITS INCLUS

A déguster chez 30 artisans locaux.

Offrez-vous une expérience gastronomique inoubliable à Paris grâce à notre guide papier Food Trip Paris. Partez à la découverte de la capitale lors de notre self-guided food tour et plongez dans une sélection variée de 30 spécialités culinaires. Savourez les délices des madeleines, des Pasticiotti, des glaces et de la tomme aux fleurs, parmi tant d'autres !

UNE ACTIVITE INSOLITE

À votre rythme.

Profitez de notre édition 2023 valable jusqu'au 30 juillet 2024, sans besoin de réservation préalable. Prenez votre temps pour déguster chaque mets délicieux à votre convenance !

UNE SELECTION AUX PETITS OIGNONS

Par  raphaële marchal.

Travaillant en étroite collaboration avec Raphaële Marchal, nous avons minutieusement choisi les meilleurs artisans parisiens pour vous offrir une expérience gastronomique inoubliable. Savourez uniquement la crème de la crème de la scène culinaire de Paris.

COMMENT UTILISER VOTRE PASS FOOD  TRIP ?

Pour savoir comment ça fonctionne, suivez le guide.

OUVREZ LE PASS

ÇA CONTINUE

UN FORMAT PAPIER A5

140 pages de bonheur.

LES ARTISANS SELECTIONNÉS

30 pépites parisiennes.

LES AVIS DES GOURMANDS APRÈS LEUR FOOD TRIP :

Découvrez leurs impressions, la faq du food trip.

Alors, prêts à découvrir Paris avec le ventre ? 

Les 30 produits.

Le Pass Food Trip : Votre guide papier pour une expérience culinaire exceptionnelle à Paris et à Bordeaux. Une fois le guide acheté, partez à la découverte de tous les produits inclus dans le pass, directement chez les artisans sélectionnés. Une aventure gourmande inoubliable à portée de main.

Northern Spain Itinerary 2024: authentic Foodie Tour

" This northern Spain itinerary focuses on giving you the best possible experience in Spain without the stress, confusion, and massive planning.  Eat your way through the best restaurants in the world, stop at some of the greatest wineries in Europe, and sleep in fantastic hotels all with programming that is designed by locals.  All Eat Northern Spain tours are private tours, meaning only you and those you wish to travel with are invited on this exclusive adventure"

NORTHERN SPAIN ITINERARY AT A GLANCE

Immerse yourself into the lively atmosphere of one of Spain's most elegant towns: San Sebastian

Be amazed by the beauty of the first National Park in Spain

Discover how shepherds make cheese in the mountains of the Basque Country 

Savour local food with an innovative touch at the best restaurants in the region

Be prepared for some extraordinary wildlife encounters

Imagine yourself sleeping in three of the most iconic hotels in Spain.

Be amazed by the beauty of the most charming mountain villages in Spain

Picture yourself pouring cider like a local during a cider house crawl paired with delicious local tapas

Be inspired by the beauty of Santiago de Compostela's Gothic Cathedral,  a stunning architectural masterpiece.

• A two-night stay in a piece of history, an impressive 5-star hotel by the sea

Upon arrival at Bilbao airport, you will start this northern Spain itinerary in style and you will be welcomed by your guide and your  driver who will be waiting to help shuttle you over to the nearby city of San Sebastian. San Sebastian is one of the leading food meccas in the world. Celebrities and foodies alike from all over the world have come to enjoy the bounty that is associated with this city. Located on the beautiful Bay of Biscay, San Sebastian offers some of the best beaches in Spain. With a rich history in both fishing and farming, farm-to-table has never been more literal. After a long day of travel you and your party will be whisked away to the Maria Cristina hotel . The leader in luxury in Spain, Maria Cristina is a beautiful hotel that stands between the sea and the sea-fed river that cuts through San Sebastian. It was designed by Charles Mewes who designed the Ritz in both Paris and Madrid, and has a lovely turn-of-the-century feel while offering amazing modern amenities that bring celebrities from all over the world back to the hotel time and time again.

After having some time to settle into paradise, you will be taken to a local favorite traditional Basque restaurant.

• An early morning private tour of San Sebastian's farmers market

• An escorted pintxos bar crawl visiting the best bars in town

• A cider house crawl paired with local tapas. You will learn how pour cider like a local.

You will wake up in the lovely Maria Cristina hotel and be treated to a world-class breakfast looking out over both the ocean and the river. From there, you and your party are whisked away for a morning tour of the fish market in downtown San Sebastian. This exclusive tour gives you a look into the ancient and historic fishing trade in the city, all led by your English-speaking local guide. 

After finishing up at the fish market, you will be lead through the charming Old City that is home to various shops and bars. This area of the city is famous for its world-class tapas , or pintxos in the local language of Euskera. You and your party may spend your time site-seeing, shopping, and then bar hopping for local pintxos and beverages escorted by your guide to the best local bars in town. You will also be given time to head over to the local beaches and soak up some Spanish sun before dinner. The Basque region of Spain is famous for their hard apple cider. While it is not as sweet as many American ciders, the Basque cider has a flavor that is more complex and pairs wonderfully with many local delicacies.

For dinner, you will be taken to a local cider house and treated to a special meal and tour.  First, you will enjoy a guided visit to the traditional cider house and you will learn how cider is produced in this region.

After the visit, you will enjoy a meal consists on traditional omelettes, grilled fish and large bone-in ribeyes, Spanish Basque cheese and quince paste jellies, walnuts, and then sweetened almond cookies rolled into small cigarette shapes or left flat in tile shapes from nearby Tolosa. Of course, you will also be given all-you-can-drink access to the local ciders, straight from the barrel just as Spanish Basques have been drinking cider for centuries. Don’t forget to shout out the traditional drinking call “ txotx !” (pronounced ‘choch!’) when getting refills.

• A private visit to a family-run cheesemaker in the middle of the mountains of the Basque Country

• A traditional shepherd's meal in the mountains surrounded by nature

• An unforgettable evening in Pamplona, home to the "Running of the Bulls", Spain's most popular festival, a highlight of any northern Spain itinerary

Day three of this northern Spain itinerary designed for the curious traveller kicks off with a breakfast of local favourites before saying goodbye the Maria Cristina Hotel and heading out into the countryside. The Basque region of Spain is famous for their hard sheep’s milk cheese called Idiazabal . Idiazabal cheeses are made in family-run farms that are nestled into the heart of the Pyrenees mountains. You will not only get to see the processes that lead to making a wheel of cheese, but you will also be able to get an inside look on the business personally. The farm is home to many local sheep who are treated like royalty. Local farmers will introduce you and your guests to their sheep, helping you to understand what is so unique and special about them and allowing you to get up close and personal with nature. After having taken part in the process of cheese making, you will be invited to a private cheese and wine tasting. Idiazabal cheeses are paired perfectly with a local sweet white wine called Txakoli . You will also be given access to a truly historic lunch that focuses on presenting you with the same sort of meal that local shepherds have been eating for centuries. From there, you and your group will head over to nearby Pamplona, home to San Fermin and The Running of the Bulls. This beautiful and historic city was also a favorite hang-out spot of Ernest Hemmingway during the Spanish Civil War. Much of the city feels very reminiscent of one of Hemmingway’s novels and fans of his work will find pieces of him scattered throughout the streets. One of the places his spirit is felt strongest is in the http://www.granhotellaperla.com/EN/hotel.html Gran Hotel La Perla . Hemmingway, Orson Welles, Charlie Chaplin, and many more celebrities over the years have found comfort in staying at the Gran Hotel La Perla. It has a turn-of-the-century feel that is offset with modern comforts and amenities. Be sure to save room for dinner as you will be taken to the one Michelin star rated Restaurant Europa. Restaurant Europa focuses on bringing the best quality ingredients from Spain together to create high-quality dishes.

• A traditional lunch in a local restaurant in LaGuardia, a medieval town enclosed by walls and built on the 13th century

• A guided visit to Marqués de Riscal, a stunning winery producing one of the best wines in the world

Starting day four off right isn’t too hard when waking up in the beautiful city of Pamplona. You will be given a small private tour of the local cobblestone streets and then taken to the famous bullfighting arena of the Running of the Bulls. After eating a delicious breakfast, you and your group will be picked up by your private transportation and whisked away to yet another of Spain’s wine making regions--La Rioja. La Rioja is perhaps one of the most beautiful and tantalizing parts of Spain, with its rolling hills and flourishing grape vines all perched around villages and cities from as far back as the 13th century. One of these 13th-century beauties, LaGuardia, will be the next stop on this northern Spain itinerary. LaGuardia is a storybook town enclosed by ancient walls and stunning landscapes. You will be able to eat lunch in the town center and then wander around the old city, stopping in various wine cellars along the way to taste the best La Rioja has to offer. After lunch, you will be taken to one of the oldest and most prestigious wineries in all of Spain, Marqués de Riscal. Marqués de Riscal has one foot in the past and the traditions that have garnered its success, and one foot in the future and the innovation that drives the art of winemaking forward. The most famous site at Marqués de Riscal is the Frank Gehry-designed winery that looks like something straight out of the future. With colorful metal sheets decorating its exterior, it stands out among the browns and greens of a typical vineyard. You will not only be given a tour of the winery but also get to sample some of the best vintages around. After a long day of hiking around and sampling wine, getting a good night’s sleep is paramount. Hotel Viura is a stunner nestled into the heart of wine country. This hotel is located in a tiny town surrounded by the best wineries Spain has to offer and it is the perfect place to drift off to a relaxed and comfortable sleep.

For dinner, you will indulge yourself at the hotel's à-la-carte restaurant and you will try some of the most delicious wines Rioja produces in the area.

• A guided tour of one of Spain's oldest wineries

• A delicious lunch with local food in a medieval monastery

If you are a wine lover, you can rejoice as day five also has a heavy focus on local wineries in La Rioja. Todya, you will visit one of the oldest wineries in Spain, which makes wine with traditional winemaking heritage in mind. They focus on cultivating the finest grapes in the best soils in Spain, then they use a time-tested method to produce the best wine in the area. From there they contract local master coopers to build the barrels where they age their wine to perfection. From there, you will be taken to a nearby Augustinian monastery for lunch at a place called The Claustro de Los Agustinos. At the monastery there are many different dining options for you and your party to choose from paired with delicious Rioja wines. After driving back to the hotel, the rest of day five is free time for you and your group to explore and enjoy the vineyards that surround your room. 

For dinner, the in-hotel restaurant gives you a high-quality dining experience without having to hike all over creation.

• An escorted visit to Bilbao's spectacular Guggenheim Museum

This northern Spain itinerary would not be complete without spending some time in the city where the trip began--Bilbao. Days six and seven will be spent in Bilbao, exploring one of the more cultured cities in Spain. Bilbao is home to the Guggenheim museum, designed by the same Frank Gehry who designed Marqués de Riscal. You will be escorted to visit the museum and take in modern art from all around the world. 

After wandering the museum, you will be taken for another bar crawl and have more famous Basque pintxos and drinks.  

After lunch, there will be free time to explore the city and then an a-la-carte dinner at a traditional Basque restaurant. Your home for the next two nights it is a modern design hotel in front of the Guggenheim museum and with spectacular views of this magnificent building.

• A guided walk to Gaztelugatxe, an impressive islet in the coast home to Dragonstone in "Game of Thrones"

• A guided pintxos bar crawl in Bilbao old town

Day seven will be a Game of Thrones lover’s paradise. You will head over to Gaztelugatxe, or the filming location for Dragonstone Island in season seven.

Everybody will enjoy learning about the location’s history as well as picking up some fun Game of Thrones facts as you hike around the spot and have lunch within sight of Gaztelugatxe. The scenery is almost unreal and feels truly other-worldly. You can hike the rocks and cliffs and explore the footbridge over the water below, just like characters in Game of Thrones. After a exciting day of hiking, you will be taken out to local bars for dinner where you can sample the kinds of food and side dishes that are famous in all the Basque Country.

• An escorted walking tour of Santander

Day eight of this northern Spain itinerary kicks off with a great breakfast and then a quick drive through the Spanish countryside to Santander, located about an hour outside of Bilbao. It is here that you will be given a private tour of the local farmer’s market complete with local produce, meats, seafood, cheeses, and more. The bounty of nature has never been more apparent than when touring through the stalls and talking to the vendors about their products. From there, you will be taken to the best bars in Santander to taste their specialties and learn about the local food culture. After filling up on local goodies, you will head over to the Botín Centre, an architectural wonder located on the Santander Bay. Exploring the local beauty through the various means of transportation offered has never been easier than in Santander. Feel free to head out by car, bus, or even by foot and explore local hotspots. For dinner, you will be taken to a local historical gem that is part high-quality restaurant and part historical museum that focuses on the history of wine barrels locally. It is a stunning and beautiful place to kick back and relax and enjoy a meal in one of the most beautiful cities in Spain. At night you will be able to retire to your hotel, a beautiful building located right on the Sardinero beach.

• A walking tour of picturesque Santillana del Mar, a highlight on any northern Spain itinerary

• Comillas sightseeing tour & Gaudí's "El Capricho" guided visit

Today, you will say goodbye to Santander and your day will start off with a short trip to Santillana de Mar. It is a medieval village famous for its breathtaking towers that majestically stand above the beautiful landscape. As you tour through the city, you will be shown some of the more important and unique parts of the city before heading back out on the road to the next stop. The next stop is the Art Nouveau city of Comillas. Comillas stands out among the coastal Northern cities because of its architecture, which borders the line between historic and modern. It is a must stop for anyone who loves the history behind Spanish buildings as well as stunning cathedrals and universities. It is in Comillas that you will be treated to a seafood feast on the coast. Spain is known for its inspiring and historic past and perhaps one of the best places to get into contact with that is Picos de Europa. After Comillas, you will head over to Picos de Europa, the oldest national park in Spain. At Picos de Europa you will be able to tour around and take in the beauty of the nearby river as well as the mountains.

At night you and your group will be whisked away to a local former monastery to get a good night’s sleep and a full belly a the hotel's á-la-carte restaurant.

• A scenic drive up to "Covadonga Lakes" following the route of the bicycle race "La Vuelta"

• A cider house crawl paired with local tapas. You will learn how pour cider like a local.

Day ten kicks off right where day nine left off. After a bountiful breakfast, you will head up to Covadonga Lakes in Picos de Europa. The majestic lake is famous amongst cyclists and hikers throughout Spain. While hiking up around Picos de Europa you will get the opportunity to check out the sanctuary Covadonga. Covadonga is a neo-Romanesque basilica with famous statues and even the tombs of two Spanish kings on location. Covadonga is famous for its local cheese, Gamoneu , that is made right outside of the basilica.

For lunch you will head over to a local restaurant for farm-to-table food. Picos de Europa is home to one of the best restaurants in all of Spain. The best dish in the restaurant is Pitu de Caleya , free range chickens that are raised onsite, on of the food highlights of this northern Spain itinerary.

Enjoy the rest of the evening at your own leisure. For dinner, you will taste apple cider like a local paired with local tapas. You are in a region which is the main producer of cider in Spain so the cherry on the cake to this unforgettable day will be selection of local tapas paired with  cider  in a cider-house  restaurant in Cangas de Onís.

• A visit to the only village without road access at the top of the mountains of Picos de Europa, a place with breath-taking scenery

Day eleven starts off by heading out to Cabrales. The Cabrales area famous for their cheese making, especially blue cheese making. Optionally, a cheese factory tour can be arranged. You will be taken up the mountain by cable car to the village of Bulnes. 

Not long ago, the only way to reach Bulnes was through a snake-like path surrounded by rocks belonging to the third stage of prehistory. This path was walked by men on mules carrying provisions and belongings and also by postal workers. This route was not very much used during winter because it was hidden by the snow.  But you will ascend to Bulnes using a cable car under the mountains.

This small mountain village nestles in a deep valley. Bulnes has a small selection of cafes and bars; short walks from Bulnes lead to the village of Upper Bulnes, and a viewpoint of Picu Uriellu.

You will enjoy a traditional lunch in one of the family-run restaurants in the village. After lunch, you will descend by cable car to Arenas de Cabrales and you will experience the Spanish "siesta" while you are driven along the coast to your next stop: Oviedo.

Oviedo is home to one of the most beautiful hotels in Spain, Hotel de La Reconquista. This three hundred year old hotel is a picturesque and stunning place to stay. You will be invited to explore the city and the hotel with an afternoon off. For dinner, you and your party can tour the famous “Cider Boulevard" of Oviedo, a highlight on any northern Spain itinerary. Octopus, squid, free range chicken, beans, and even barnacles are offered in an a-la-carte restaurant setting that is easy to pick and choose from.

• Artisan fishing-port lunch by the sea based on sparkling-fresh fish 

• A unique accommodation in a historic hotel by Santiago's impressive Cathedral

After a mouth-watering breakfast,  you will enjoy a tour of Oviedo's city centre, the central market, the cobblestone streets and of course its beautiful Cathedral.

At midday you will be met by your guide & driver and escorted to your vehicle to start your journey to Santiago de Compostela. This city is famous for the Camino de Santiago, a religious pilgrimage that leads pilgrims through the North of Spain ultimately landing in Santiago de Compostela.

Before you arrive, you will head out to lunch at Puerto de Vega, where you will have a fresh seafood meal near the coast. After eating lunch, you will be taken to the city itself where you can tour around and take in the breathtaking cathedral. You will be able to learn about the history of the Camino de Santiago, the city itself, and the local culture. Santiago de Compostela is now a UNESCO-protected site, and it won’t take long to see why it has earned that standing.

The cherry on the cake to an unforgettable day will be a good night sleep in the world’s oldest hotel. Situated in Santiago de Compostela’s main square, this 15th-century hotel wraps you in opulent luxury. For dinner, you will enjoy Restaurante dos Reis--a historic royal stable in the area. It is now home to a unique cuisine that mixes both traditional recipes with modern techniques and local foods.

• An early morning visit to Santiago de Compostela's lively farmers' market to discover local delicacies

• A tour inside Santiago de Compostela's impressive Gothic Cathedral

After sumptuous breakfast with breath-taking views of Santiago de Compostela's Gothic Cathedral day thirteen of this northern Spain itinerary will be a grand finale to the perfect trip.

You will experience a unique look at the city with an early morning culinary tour of the central farmers' market where colours and aromas combine to create an intoxicating gastronomic experience. There you will find only the most succulent fruit and vegetables, freshest seafood, Galician octopus and the world famous dry-aged Galician Blond Beef.

After that, you will be part of a behind-the-scenes tour of the Cathedral which gives the context and history of the Camino, the cathedral, and religion in Spain. The afternoon is a free time for you to explore the city and relax. For dinner, you will get to sit at the chef's table of a Michelin-starred restaurant and get a behind-the-scenes look at the work of some of the most inspiring Chefs in the region.

After a reinvigorating sleep and a scrumptious breakfast of local specialities you can sleep in late or take a relaxing stroll around Santiago's lively historic centre.

A transfer to the airport on time for your flight will be the saddest experience of your memorable stay in Spain.

• about this tour

This is a Private Tour available all-year-round

4 - 8 people - Private Tour: only you & your group travelling together

Starting Point

Bilbao's airport

Ending Point

Santiago de Compostela's airport

What’s included? Everything you need. Plus everything you'd want. Plus a few things you never knew you wanted until you got them.

In a word: everything. In eighty words? A private chauffeur tour following a carefully-selected northern Spain itinerary guided by an English-speaking local guide, an interesting, fun and like-minded travel companion; authentic and innovative local cuisine; world-class local wines; wine tastings; all victuals and libations; all the endorphins you can handle; new insight; a feeling of total freedom. In short: an extraordinary, hassle-free journey of discovery. Travel at your own pace: Our tailor-made holidays are very flexible, allowing you to start road journeys or sightseeing when you choose – within reason.

• 2 nights -- SAN SEBASTIAN - Hotel Maria Cristina, Luxury Collection 5* 
•    1 night -- PAMPLONA -- Gran Hotel La Perla 5*
• 2 nights -- RIOJA -- Boutique Hotel Viura 4*
• 2 nights -- BILBAO -- Hotel Gran Domine 5*
•    1 night -- SANTANDER -- Gran Hotel Sardinero 4*
• 2 nights -- PICOS DE EUROPA NATIONAL PARK -- Parador Cangas Onís 4*
•    1 night -- OVIEDO -- Hotel de la Reconquista 5*
• 2 nights -- SANTIAGO DE COMPOSTELA -- Parador de los Reyes Católicos 5* GL
• Daily breakfast  at all the hotels.
• All meals at Michelin-starred, signature and traditional restaurants and all other meals as indicated à-la-carte ( 12 lunches  & 13 dinners ) with wines and drinks included à-la-carte ( no fixed menus , you may choose from each restaurant's public menu what you want to taste).
• All transportation from airport pickup to drop-off in a chauffeured air-conditioned brand-new vehicle:  Mercedes Class E, V or luxury minibus . Your safety and comfort are paramount. You will enjoy touring Northern Spain in safety, comfort and style.
• English speaking guide during the whole trip . Translator services and assistance at restaurants, hotels & experiences. We will break the language barrier for you so you can get the most out of your experiences during your trip.
• All the experiences, visits and activities included  in the itinerary.
• 24h concierge service during the whole trip.
• All baggage transportation. 
• All gratuities for baggage, porters and hotel service.
• All currently applicable taxes.

What’s not included?

• International Flights
• Medical Travel Insurance
• Personal expenses

What to expect

• A laid-back pace with free time to relax
• Plenty of scrumptious local food and wine as well as time to really appreciate the dining experience

Do you want to change anything of this northern Spain trip to fit your needs?

More days, different accommodation, some other food yisou would like to try...?

No problem. You will have a custom trip designed exactly to your interests. Like a tailor making a bespoke suit, it will fit you perfectly.

We work to plan your dreamed trip. Click below, pick your dates, your group size and tell us what do you want to experience in Spain with us. We will exceed your expectations. Promise.

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Corrie Cooks US

12 Countries That Serve the World's Best Food

Posted: April 19, 2024 | Last updated: April 19, 2024

Some countries are just famous for their culinary offerings, and this list of 12 showcases the best of the best. From Italy's rich pastas to Thailand's vibrant street food, these nations provide a taste experience that is as diverse as it is delightful. Explore these culinary hotspots that are known for their exceptional dishes.

Tagliatelle al Ragù, known as "Spaghetti Bolognese" to non-Italians, is a meaty, hearty dish of freshly ground pork and beef mixed with celery, carrots, onions, tomatoes, and red wine.

Poured over beautifully cooked tagliatelle pasta, which is said to be inspired by the curly blonde hair of Lucrezia Borgia, a 16th-century Italian noblewoman, this 'ragu' sauce is not to be missed. Freshly grate some Parmesiano Reggiano on top, and you have a lovely, authentic Italian meal. Do the Italians a favor, though, and don't call it Spaghetti Bolognese."

Fried Artichoke, or Carciofo alla Guidia in Italian, is a popular treat for any dinner table. This dish is exquisite simply for the time it takes to make and its nutty, crunchy texture.

Tiramisu, which translates to "Lift me up" in Italian, was rumored to come from a brothel. This ever-famous dessert, made from layers of lady finger biscuits that have been dipped one by one in a rich mixture of mascarpone cream cheese and your preference of coffee powders, is the perfect end to any Italian meal. Sometimes people add chocolate powder, but it'll be just the coffee for a 'purist.'

Go south of the border with some authentic Mexican food that will make you ache for a visit. If you're sluggish after a long night, try a warm serving of Chilorio with breakfast potatoes for a peppy start to your day. This guisado- any stewed meat that is braised, homey, and delicious- is also perfect for a lunchtime taco.

If you're in a hurry and want a meal when you get home, add black beans, pork ribs, water, rum, garlic head halves, onion, salt, bay leaves, oregano, cumin, and crushed red pepper in a slow cooker and let it combine for about eight hours.

The resulting black bean soup is earthy and fantastic for a chilly night. Bunuelos or Cinnamon-Fried Crisps are a light, flavorful accompaniment for fruit, ice cream, or any other favorite treat.

3. Thailand

Ah, the spicy heat of a great curry or the bursting flavor of peanut sauce. These delights are only part of the delectable options you can find in an authentic dish from Thailand.

Often served with rice and vegetables, Thai food is a major hit with many families no matter where you call home. However, much like Chinese food in the United States, what you get for takeout might not be as authentic as knowing how to make these culturally rich dishes from scratch.

If you're in the mood for curry but don't like the intense heat that comes with Green Curry -- which is the spiciest -- you can take a shot at Panang or Thai Curry.

Another popular dish in Thailand and other regions is Kai Med Ma Muang or Chicken with Cashew Nuts. This stir-fry dish is a simple, vegetable-heavy meal that can be served over rice or with your favorite noodle for a tasty, easy meal.

For dessert, a serving of sticky rice, slices of mango, and sweetened-condensed milk -- known as Kao Niew Ma Muang -- makes for a flavorful treat after any Thai meal.

When it comes to the small island of Greece, size doesn't diminish the rich flavors of the Mediterranean that will assault your tastebuds when you enjoy a light lunch like a simple Greek Salmon Salad.

Made with a bed of fresh vegetables and Feta cheese with perfectly cooked salmon and a rich vinaigrette, this dish is a can't-miss meal in under 20 minutes.

You can't go wrong with Mediterranean Shrimp Kabobs if you like seafood. They are lightly seasoned with garlic and herbs and easily paired with grilled vegetables, a simple Greek salad, or as the main attraction to a lovely pasta.

Loukoumades are a "bite-sized" Greek donut that's sure to please any dessert lover after a great meal. These 'glazed' donut holes are made with simple ingredients, make enough for the whole family, and are perfect no matter how many you want to eat.

Sushi is easily one of the most popular dishes in Japan; no discussion of Japanese cuisine would be complete without it. Distinctly Japanese, Sushi used to consist of fish preserved in fermented rice. It is often made with vinegared rice and fresh fish and styled in several ways.

Kaiseki, or 'tasting course,' is the ultimate in fine Japanese cuisine. Comprised of several different edible samples, this delicate entree allows you to have various flavor experiences in one dish.

While Japan boasts delicate desserts like Green Tea Mousse Cheesecake, you should take advantage of their Kasutera or Castella honey cake. Made with just four ingredients, including flour, sugar, milk, and honey, this fluffy desert is a must if you want a traditional Japanese encounter.

Peruvian culture is a beautiful mixture of European and South American influences and has combined contradictions to create a culture all its own.

If you're in the mood for a generous helping of Peruvian comfort food, you can't do better than a helping of Aji de Gallina or Peruvian Chicken Stew. This dish combines a healthy amount of shredded chicken simmered in a beautifully creamy French-style sauce with Aji Amarillo chili.

This spicy meal will surely hit all your pleasure notes before you even get to dessert, as it pairs excellently with rice, pasta, or roasted vegetables.

If you prefer red meat, Lomo Saltado is the perfect weeknight meal. However, if you're sourcing your food locally, you'll want to find a butcher who can get you some beautiful tri-tip beef sliced no thicker than 1/4 inch. Salt and pepper your tri-tip beef to taste.

Add thinly sliced onion, deseeded and skinned tomato slices, and yellow chili pepper for an authentic take on this Peruvian favorite. If you can find Aji Amarillo peppers, these would make this a genuinely authentic Peruvian dish.

Splash on some soy sauce and distilled vinegar, and you've got a beautiful main dish. Pair it with crispy French fries or tater tots, and you'll please even the pickiest eater at your table.

Try Arroz Con Leche or Peruvian Rice Pudding for a wonderfully creamy dessert. This light dessert, made with whole milk, a fresh cinnamon stick, salt, and a healthy dose of patience, is like a small, silky taste of Peru no matter where you live.

As far back as Medieval China, Roasted Peking Duck has been served to everyone from heads of state to foreign dignitaries and is considered a 'royal dish.'

This delicacy, praised for its thin, crispy skin, is often served sliced with pancakes, sweet bean sauce, or mashed garlic and soy sauce.

Either way, this dish is as traditional as China's and is one to take advantage of if you're going for an authentic Chinese meal.

Dim Sum is famous in China and around the world and is much like a Chinese sampler platter. With more than 1,000 dish options, this celebrated meal is usually served during breakfast or lunchtime tea.

Known as Doufa Hua, Soy Milk Pudding is a favorite among Chinese people and is traditionally served at home after dinner.

If you want something authentic, you can't go wrong with Kibbeh, the national dish of Lebanon. These torpedo-shaped, fried croquettes are packed with bulgur, minced meat, onions, and sauteed pine nuts . 

If you're in the mood for something light, look no further than Tabbouleh. A salad made of mint, parsley, fresh tomatoes, olives, onions, and bulgur or couscous, this colorful staple is excellent as a side or a main dish. 

A crunchy, creamy dessert known as Kunāfah makes a beautiful finish for a traditional Lebanese meal, especially if you like the flavor of citrus. 

Phở is easily one of the most recognizable Vietnamese dishes outside Vietnam. Inside the country, it's an all-time favorite. Named for the noodle in the dish, Phở is a light, earthy broth that allows the noodles to meld with the slivers of medium-rare beef or boiled chicken. 

Cơm tấm is a dish of humble origins made of 'broken' rice or cracked grains of rice that were unsellable. While there are several ways to make the dish, the most common is cơm tấm sườn nướng ốp la.

This version pairs a fried egg with a caramelized grilled pork chop. The dish is slathered in chili, fish sauce, and sugar and drizzled with green onion oil. Add in a side of pickled carrots, daikon, cucumber slices, and tomatoes. Crushed pork rinds and shallots make the perfect garnish for this humble dish. 

If you want a traditional Vietnamese dessert, look no further than Vietnamese Sesame Balls. Crispy on the outside from frying and an outer coating of white sesame seeds, and packed with the punch of mung bean paste, these tiny treats are often sold as a snack by street food vendors in Vietnam. 

France is renowned for its exquisite cuisine, earning it a well-deserved spot on the list. From buttery croissants and delicate pastries to rich cheeses and succulent meats, French gastronomy is a celebration of flavors and culinary finesse.

The meticulous attention to quality and the artistry in French cooking have made it a global culinary icon, with dishes like Coq au Vin and Ratatouille captivating taste buds worldwide. Indulging in French cuisine means savoring the legacy of culinary mastery and experiencing the epitome of refined dining.

India's culinary heritage is as diverse as its culture and traditions, making it a must-have on any list of the world's best food countries. With a myriad of regional cuisines, India offers a vast array of flavors, spices, and ingredients. From fragrant biryanis and spicy curries to crispy dosas and tangy street snacks, Indian cuisine is an explosion of tastes and aromas.

Each dish reflects a rich history and a unique blend of spices, such as cumin, turmeric, and cardamom. Exploring the vibrant and complex flavors of Indian food is a journey that will ignite the senses and leave a lasting impression.

Turkey offers an unforgettable food journey that's a fusion of Middle Eastern, Central Asian, and Mediterranean flavors. Imagine sinking your teeth into a perfectly grilled kebab or enjoying the layered richness of baklava dripping with honey.

The country is a haven for street food as well, from savory gözleme to sweet roasted chestnuts. Spices like saffron, cumin, and sumac are generously used, elevating dishes to a new level of deliciousness. And let's not forget the drinks—the robust flavors of Turkish tea and coffee are the perfect way to round off any meal.

From fine dining to street stalls, Turkey's culinary landscape is rich and diverse, making it a must-visit for any food lover.

This thread inspired this post.

12 American Foods That People From Other Countries Are Obsessed With

American cuisine is loved worldwide for its bold flavors and hearty portions. From coast to coast, here are 12 American foods that have won hearts across the globe.

Click Here For 12 American Foods That People From Other Countries Are Obsessed With

12 Poor People Foods We Can't Stop Eating, No Matter How Rich We Get

Simple and comforting, these foods remain favorites regardless of wealth. Their straightforward flavors bring back memories and offer satisfaction.

Click Here For 12 Poor People Foods We Can't Stop Eating, No Matter How Rich We Get

12 Awkward Things You Can't Say In An Elevator

From personal space to the unspoken elevator etiquette, there are just some things better left unsaid between those brief rides from floor to floor

Click Here For 12 Awkward Things You Can't Say In An Elevator

12 American Foods That People From Other Places Can’t Stomach

Ever wondered why some American dishes make visitors from abroad go "nope"?

Click Here For 12 American Foods That People From Other Places Can’t Stomach

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On a trip to Korea, I rediscovered myself in the food

Until recently, I’ve always felt confident identifying as Korean. But this past winter, I visited Korea for the first time in years. In planning the trip, I realized my relationship to the country had always been mediated by my parents. As the date approached, I began to feel a lot of self-doubt creep in. If I stepped outside the bubble of my family, could I still hold my own?

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Road Trips: How to Plan an Accessible Getaway

By Syren Nagakyrie

Planning an accessible road trip is getting a little easier for people with disabilities. There are more resources created by and for the disability community, and the tourism industry is starting to recognize the value of accessible travel. As a disabled, chronically ill, neurodivergent person, I take road trips every year and have learned some tips and tricks along the way.

Renting a vehicle

Most major car companies offer adaptive driving devices for their vehicles at no additional cost. Enterprise , for example, offers hand controls, left foot accelerators, pedal extenders and spinner knobs to facilitate steering. Budget can provide hand controls, spinner knobs, a panoramic mirror, swivel seats and transfer boards. Be prepared to request adaptive devices at least three business days in advance.

For a wheelchair-accessible van with a ramp or a lift, rent from a mobility company like BraunAbility , one of the largest builders of wheelchair-accessible vans in the country, with rentals at many locations. MobilityWorks , an accessible-vehicle and adaptive-equipment dealer, has rental locations in 34 states. AccessibleGO , which offers a one-stop shop for adapted rental cars and wheelchair-accessible vans, has agreements with 100 wheelchair van rental locations nationwide; request a quote on their website. For accessibleGO’s rental cars, you can request hand controls and a spinner knob at checkout.

Route planning

You can use Google Maps, Waze and MapQuest for initial accessibility research using photos and street view. Google Maps provides directions for some wheelchair-accessible pedestrian and transit routes.

Sites such as Roadtrippers and Furkot can plot an entire itinerary. While these websites are not disability specific, they are invaluable tools. (Roadtrippers does have a wheelchair-accessible check box in the search function.) You can filter by types of destinations such as national parks or museums, and search for hotels and campgrounds. Furkot allows you to input how long you want to drive each day, whether you want to travel on Interstate highways or take more scenic roads. The app will determine the best route and length of time between stops, and suggest where to stay overnight.

Finding lodging

While hotels and other accommodations are required to comply with the Americans With Disabilities Act, many hotels do not meet all accessibility needs. Most of the booking sites list hotels with accessible rooms for those with mobility, hearing and vision needs, but this information is not always verified. Do additional research on review sites and look for photos. Hyatt, Marriott, Hilton and Fairmont hotels offer allergy-friendly and scent-free rooms in some locations. Call the hotel to verify accessibility and to make sure a specific room is reserved for you.

Vacation rentals are typically not required to be A.D.A. compliant, but some do provide accessibility information. Airbnb recently rolled out an adapted category with accessibility search features and homes that have been scanned for accessibility. Review photos and contact the host for more information. Some hosts will make accommodations, such as changing the cleaning supplies or shifting furniture, but document your request using the in-app messaging system so that customer service can help if you run into issues.

Wheel the World is an accessible travel agency offering bookings at over 3,000 verified accessible hotels in the United States. The hotels have been reviewed in person by trained assessors; only those that meet the criteria are listed. Sign up as a disabled traveler or a companion and complete a personal profile that includes options for a variety of disabilities and accessibility needs. The site will provide listings that match your profile with partial, adequate and outstanding match options.

Food and medication

There are a variety of options to keep food or medication cold while traveling. Electric coolers can plug into your vehicle’s 12-volt outlet, but pay attention to the type of cooling mechanism — the less expensive versions are usually thermoelectric and will cool only to about 30 degrees below ambient temperature (if it is 70 degrees in the car, it will cool to 40 degrees). Compressor coolers are more expensive but maintain normal refrigerated temperatures.

Many hotels provide mini-refrigerators. When you know you will be stopping somewhere with a fridge almost every night, layer large ice packs and supplies in a cooler, then top them with another insulating layer like a cooling bag. This keeps everything cold for a couple of days at a time.

It’s also a good idea to travel with a single-burner cooktop — electric to use inside, or propane to use at rest areas and campgrounds — and a camp mess kit so that you can safely cook meals.

Some of the best apps to find food, restaurants and grocery stores that accommodate dietary needs are Fig for allergy-specific options, Happy Cow for vegan-friendly options and Find Me Gluten Free for celiac-safe spots. Add your favorite options to the route-planning app so that you know where to stop.

Finding activities

In addition to the apps mentioned in the route-planning section, state and local tourism organizations are good sources for accessible destinations.

National parks and monuments, which are required to meet federal accessibility guidelines, typically have visitor centers and recreation sites with accessible features. Each park website has information, as well as programs and services within the park. While accessibility varies, you can usually find information on wheelchair-accessible trails and campsites, tactile and audio features, assistive listening devices, and American Sign Language interpreters.

At state parks, accessibility features may not be consistent, but you can usually find some information on each park’s website.

Apps like AllTrails list wheelchair-friendly trails across the country, but the information may not be verified, so contact the park or land manager for verification. Among the parks with notable accessible trails are Redwood National and State Parks, North Cascades National Park, Badlands National Park, and Great Smoky Mountains National Park .

Syren Nagakyrie, the founder of the nonprofit Disabled Hikers and the author of “The Disabled Hiker’s Guide to Western Washington and Oregon” and “The Disabled Hiker’s Guide to Northern California,” among other guidebooks, leads group hikes and conducts assessments throughout the United States.

Open Up Your World

Considering a trip, or just some armchair traveling here are some ideas..

52 Places:  Why do we travel? For food, culture, adventure, natural beauty? Our 2024 list has all those elements, and more .

Mumbai:  Spend 36 hours in this fast-changing Indian city  by exploring ancient caves, catching a concert in a former textile mill and feasting on mangoes.

Kyoto:  The Japanese city’s dry gardens offer spots for quiet contemplation  in an increasingly overtouristed destination.

Iceland:  The country markets itself as a destination to see the northern lights. But they can be elusive, as one writer recently found .

Texas:  Canoeing the Rio Grande near Big Bend National Park can be magical. But as the river dries, it’s getting harder to find where a boat will actually float .

Traveling With Food Allergies? These Tips Can Help

If you’re allergic to foods such as peanuts, wheat, soy, or milk, finding food while traveling can feel daunting. Hear what the experts have to say about how to prepare, what to pack, and what to discuss with your doctor.

For some people with food allergies , departing from your daily routines — preparing your own foods in your own kitchen, eating at restaurants you know are safe — can be daunting. Traveling “may seem overwhelming initially, but it can be done with planning,” says  Asal Gharib Naderi, MD , an allergist and immunologist at Keck Medicine of USC in Los Angeles. “It really is feasible and possible.”

Here are some tips for traveling when you have a food allergy — with the intent of avoiding an allergic reaction, and making sure you get the treatment you need if you do experience one.

Make a Plan With Your Doctor

Planning is the most important aspect of traveling safely for people with severe food allergies, according to Dr. Naderi — and that starts with having a conversation with your allergist or primary care doctor.

“We come up with an allergy action plan where, for each step of each potential symptom, we discuss what medicine to take,” Naderi explains. You should also discuss your travel and food plans broadly — where you’re going, who you’re traveling with, what and where you intend to eat. “Run everything by your allergist before you go,” she suggests.

When it comes to your doctor, “I think touching base is a good idea, especially before any big trips like traveling internationally or to a remote area,” says Jennifer Dantzer, MD , a pediatric allergist and immunologist at Johns Hopkins Children’s Center in Baltimore. Your allergist, she says, can help with both your medication plans and potentially identifying special precautions related to your destination — such as widespread use of food allergens or food labeling laws that are different from those in the United States.

“What your allergen is could definitely impact some of the precautions you should take,” notes Dr. Dantzer. For example, common local foods could be difficult in one part of the world if you have a fish or tree nut allergy, while you might face greater risk in another part of the world if you have a wheat or milk allergy.

What to Pack: Medications, Food, and Documentation

Well before you leave on your trip, double-check to make sure you have all your medications. That means unexpired doses of current prescription medications, as well as any over-the-counter medicines you might need, Dantzer suggests — don’t wait until you’re at your destination to buy over-the-counter drugs, since there’s no guarantee you’ll find them easily.

For people with severe food allergies, it’s critical to pack — and carry at all times — two unexpired epinephrine auto-injectors , suggests Naderi.

When it comes to packing food, the main goal should be “to get you through the first 24 or 48 hours,” says Naderi, since it may take that long to scope out all your local food options. That can mean bringing prepackaged snacks or preparing your own food items. Some of Naderi’s patients, she says, “have gotten really good about making their own cookies or bars, and they take those with them. And they can eat celery or apples, or chicken” — foods they know they’re not allergic to — to supplement what they bring along.

Of course, you may get some looks or questions from airport security staff if you’ve packed a suitcase full of medications and homemade food items. That’s when having a letter from your doctor that explains your allergies can come in handy — “So the TSA understands why someone is carrying all these things with them,” says Naderi.

Planning Meals: Restaurants and Grocery Stores

Meal planning is a key part of traveling with food allergies, Naderi emphasizes. “If a patient tells me they’re going to travel to a destination, one of the things I often tell them is to research restaurants so they can become familiar with what’s on the menu,” she says. Looking at a restaurant’s online menu can also give you a sense of how “food allergy aware” they are — based on whether the menu indicates items that contain wheat, fish, peanuts, or other potential allergens.

For some unfamiliar destinations, going to the grocery store and preparing your own meals “could be the safer or preferable option for you,” at least at first, says Dantzer. Of course, grocery stores can present their own challenges if you don’t speak the local language. “If you can’t read the label” — and can’t get a satisfactory translation using your phone — “not eating the product is probably the safe option,” she suggests.

Before you show up at a restaurant — especially if it’s not part of a chain you’re familiar with — it’s a good idea to call ahead of time to let them know about your allergies and ask questions. “Don’t call during peak hours. You want them to give you their full attention,” says Naderi, who also suggests making sure you’re talking with — or getting answers from — the chef who will be on duty when you dine at the restaurant.

On the phone with restaurant staff, you can ask about kitchen practices like the use of utensils or cutting boards for multiple items. “That’s where cross-contamination can happen,” cautions Naderi, if kitchen workers aren’t fully aware of your needs.

When you show up at a restaurant, it’s a good idea to let your server know you called or did other research ahead of time, and give them your “chef card” explaining your allergies. If your server or other restaurant staff don’t seem willing or able to accommodate your needs at this point, remember that you’re under no obligation to stay and eat there. “If somewhere doesn’t seem safe to you, it’s perfectly fine to thank them and leave the establishment,” says Naderi.

And don’t forget the details when dining out, such as the potential for traces of food to remain on your table after it’s cleaned. Make sure not to set your tableware on bare surfaces, or clean the table first with a wipe that you bring along, Naderi suggests.

Resources We Trust

• Food Allergy Research & Education (FARE) :   Traveling  
• Stanford Medicine:   Flying With Food Allergies: Safety Tips  
• Food Allergy Research & Education (FARE):   Tips for International Travel  
• American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology:   Managing Food Allergies While on Vacation  

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We're having loyal Costco shoppers share their grocery lists with us. Here are their favorite things to buy there.

• Business Insider had 25 Costco shoppers share the items they frequently buy from the popular chain.
• Certain staple ingredients — like vanilla extract, rice, and coffee — are worth buying in bulk. 
• You can find especially good deals on name-brand classics, like Dave's Killer Bread.

As the third-largest retailer in the US , Costco consistently aims to keep its millions of cardholders coming back for discounts and bulk buys. 

The store attracts shoppers from all walks of life, from nutritionists to chefs to athletes, and everyone has a unique shopping list.  

BI had 25 dedicated shoppers share what they snag on their Costco runs — here's what they said.

Abigail Abesamis Demarest has shopped at Costco for over 10 years and likes to buy certain ingredients in bulk

She uses these frozen-berry blends in her smoothies.

Using frozen berries instead of ice makes smoothies cold and refreshing without watering them down.

This 4-pound bag of fruit comes with raspberries, blueberries, and blackberries. 

Demarest mixes it with almond butter, almond milk, chia seeds, and cacao powder for a morning drink .

Buying salmon in bulk can be cheaper in the long run

Costco sells huge slabs of Atlantic salmon .

Demarest often pairs baked fillets with brown rice and veggies, like spinach or broccoli. 

This large piece can be divided into several servings, and you can freeze leftover fillets to make them last longer.

These prepackaged Starbucks frappuccinos are an easy, on-the-go coffee option

These Starbucks frappuccinos are tasty, and buying them in bulk makes sense.

Demarest will often wait to snag these until there's a manufacturer's coupon to make them even cheaper. 

Read Abigail Abesamis Demarest's full Costco shopping list: I've shopped at Costco for over 10 years. Here are the 15 products I always buy in bulk .

Solo shopper Alicia Diaz lives in New York with 2 roommates but finds ways to make her Costco membership worth it

This 5-pack of crest 3d white toothpaste can last diaz and her roommates months.

Although one person can finish a normal tube of toothpaste in just a couple of months, the Crest 3D White bulk pack can last for six to eight months, even when shared.

Diaz said that since she shares a bathroom, it's more cost-effective to buy this toiletry in bulk.

These Kirkland Signature leggings are one of Diaz's favorite buys

These comfy leggings come in several colors.

Diaz bought these leggings on a whim and was blown away, picking up three more the next time.

As a Lululemon fan, she said this cheaper Costco alternative is comparable to the name brand. 

These individually portioned packets of Yakisoba make for an easy dinner

Frozen and portioned meals are great Costco buys for solo shoppers since they have a much longer shelf life.

Each box of Yakisoba contains six packets of noodles mixed with sauce and an array of stir-fry vegetables.

Diaz will often finish cooking the noodles in a pan with chicken.

Read Alicia Diaz's full Costco shopping list: I'm a solo shopper at Costco. Here are the 15 things I always buy that make my membership worth it .

Lisa Tanner feeds her family of 12 by buying items in bulk at the wholesale chain

These packages of orville redenbacher's popcorn kernels make for a cheap and delicious snack.

This 8-pound jug of kernels will last Tanner about a month. 

She'll usually prepare two large batches multiple times a week as a ready snack for her 10 kids , popping the kernels with oil in a pan over medium heat.

You can eat as is or add your choice of toppings, like butter and salt. 

Rice is a versatile and inexpensive side dish

Tanner also grabs a 25-pound bag of Thai Hom Mali jasmine rice.

She often prepares it in the Instant Pot to serve alongside meals like hamburger bowls, fried rice, and casserole.

Kirkland Signature sliced ham is a great deal and can work in a number of meals

She also buys two-packs of uncured extra-lean ham.

Although ham works great in sandwiches, Tanner will also add this ingredient to dishes like fried rice, quesadillas, scrambled eggs , and baked potatoes. 

Read Lisa Tanner's full Costco shopping list: I'm a mom of 10 who's shopped at Costco for almost 20 years. Here are 20 things I always buy in bulk .

Tara Zeller drives 4 hours for each Costco trip

This foodsaver has saved zeller hundreds of dollars and makes her big hauls worth it.

Zeller uses the FoodSaver to ensure her frozen food lasts longer and doesn't get freezer burn, saving her up to hundreds of dollars since she can preserve her bulk buys.

Simply portion the food into your ideal serving, then seal and store it in the freezer for easy future meals .

These packs of souvlaki make for an easy dinner protein

These Greek-style souvlaki skewers are available in chicken or pork flavors.

Zeller will often grill some of the skewers and pair them with a side salad for dinner, then freeze the rest to whip up at a later date.

This shopper also picks up this large jug of Kirkland Signature maple syrup

Costco sells large bottles of pure, organic maple syrup. 

The breakfast staple works great on top of pancakes, waffles, and French toast , plus it'll last for a while. 

Read Tara Zeller's full Costco shopping list: I drive 4 hours and spend $500 for every Costco trip. Here are 16 things I always stock up on .

Majed Kassis runs the popular @CostcoBuys Instagram account, which has over 460,000 followers

Costco sells premade street-taco kits that are easy to assemble.

These ready-made kits include taco essentials — 12 flour tortillas, chicken, cheese, lime slices, salsa, and cilantro-lime crema.

Each pack can feed about three to four people.

They're a hit among Kassis' family and ideal for when you don't want to cook.

These cinnamon pull-a-parts make for a delicious dessert or breakfast

Found in Costco's bakery section, these cinnamon treats are a delicious buy. 

Each pack of 12 comes topped with tasty cream-cheese icing. 

Kassis pops them in the microwave for 20 seconds to warm them and make them melty.

Just Bare's breaded chicken-breast chunks are a hit among kids and adults alike

Kassis compared a 4-pound bag of these boneless chicken bites to Chick-fil-A's nuggets. 

She said they turn out wonderfully crispy in the air fryer and work well as protein on a salad.

Read Majed Kassis' full Costco shopping list: I run a Costco fan account with over 390,000 followers. Here are 12 of my favorite recent purchases .

Nutritionist Candace Nelson buys certain foods in bulk to whip up simple, wholesome dishes

Mandarins are an easy snack and chock-full of vitamin c.

Nelson will place a handful of mandarins in the fruit bowl each morning to set out as a snack. 

The easy-peel fruit is a great source of vitamin C and can last for several weeks in the fridge. 

Kirkland Signature mixed-nut butter doesn't contain any added sugar or salt

This wholesome mixed-nut butter combines almonds, cashews, pumpkin seeds, chia seeds, and flax seeds to make a delicious spread that you can add to snacks or meals.

Nuts are a great, wholesome source of fats — a food group that should ideally make up 30% of your daily calories .

Particularly, omega-3 fatty acids found in many nuts and seeds are good for heart health .

Snag a 2-pack of Dave's Killer Bread at Costco

With both 5 grams of fiber and protein per serving, Dave's Killer Bread is great for sandwiches and toast. 

Nelson will often toast the bread and top it with nut butter and sliced bananas. 

Read Candace Nelson's full Costco shopping list: I'm a nutritionist who shops at Costco for 2. Here are 15 things I always buy in bulk .

Salma Hamze shops at Costco for just her and her mom

This shopper buys this bulk tub of folgers' classic roast to make drip coffee.

This 51-ounce tub of ground coffee  lasts a while.

Hamze uses it to make drip coffee, though it can also be brewed with a machine or French press.

Costco sells large bags of these white-cheddar Hippeas

Hamze is a big fan of the bulk-sized bag of Hippeas — organic chickpea puffs.

She buys two bags at a time and enjoys this snack as a replacement for potato chips .

Taylor Farms' salad kits make lunch or dinner easy

These premade salad kits come with everything you need for a tasty serving of veggies , including dressing and toppings. 

The Mediterranean salad kit is Hamze's favorite.

Read Salma Hamze's full Costco shopping list: I shop at Costco for my family of 2. Here are 10 things I always stock up on .

Dana Engelbert drives 3 hours — 140 miles roundtrip — to buy these items in bulk

Kirkland signature organic apple-sauce pouches are a great snack for kids.

Engelbert buys these apple-sauce pouches as a wholesome snack for her kids.

Coming in a large box of 24 pouches, they are organic, gluten-free, and added-sugar-free.

Costco sells packs of hand-pulled rotisserie chicken breast

The wholesale chain's rotisserie chicken is a beloved staple, but Engelbert often picks up this pack of hand-pulled breast instead. 

It's a versatile meat option that can be added to salads, enchiladas, and more.  

Combat seasonal stuffiness with these bulk packs of allergy pills and nasal sprays

You can snag bulk packs of allergy pills and nasal spray from name brands — like Zyrtec and Flonase — at Costco.

Just make sure to check the expiration date and use them in time.

Read Dana Engelbert's full Costco shopping list: I drive 3 hours to shop at Costco. Here are 21 things that make the 140-mile trip worth it .

Gemma Acheampong's a Ghanaian track-and-field Olympian and semi-professional athlete who shops at Costco

This athlete opts for kirkland signature frozen salmon.

Each 3-pound bag of Atlantic salmon contains individually wrapped pieces of fish.

Acheampong said she used to buy fresh salmon, but realized she would end up freezing most of it and started buying these packs instead. 

She'll often bake a fillet with a marinade and serve it with vegetables for an easy meal .

Grapes are quite affordable at Costco

Costco sells 4-pound packages of green and black seedless grapes. 

Acheampong will often freeze them to have as a crisp, refreshing snack during the summer months. 

The grocery chain also sells green tea in bulk

Green tea is naturally caffeinated and rich in antioxidants .

Acheampong may drink between three to four cups of tea daily, so she grabs these bulk packs of 100 bags from Costco.

Read Gemma Acheampong's full Costco shopping list: I'm an Olympian and semi-professional athlete. Here are 16 things I always buy at Costco for myself .

Lizzy Briskin is a trained chef who likes to buy certain staple ingredients in bulk

Pure vanilla extract is a great deal at costco.

Pure vanilla extract can be a pricey ingredient, but Costco shoppers can snag a 16-ounce bottle.

You can use vanilla in various baked goods and breakfasts, from cookies and cakes to French toast and pancakes.

Sauerkraut is a great source of probiotics

Chock-full of natural probiotics to keep your gut healthy, sauerkraut can make a delicious addition to sandwiches or salads.

Plus, the ingredient, which comes in a 50-ounce container, can last for months sealed in the fridge.

Costco sells large bags of quinoa for a reasonable price

A wholesome staple to keep in your kitchen, quinoa is full of plant-based protein and fiber.

Although the trendy grain can be quite pricey at other stores, you can snag a bag that's over 4 pounds at Costco. 

Pair the ingredient with protein and veggies for dinner or use it to bulk up a salad .

Read Lizzy Briskin's full Costco shopping list: I'm a chef who shops at Costco. Here are my 12 favorite things to buy .

Costco shopper Jordan Kuntz lives on the road full-time in a 27-foot RV

Rao's marinara sauce is a delicious, high-quality option.

This shopper thinks Rao's red sauce is worth the higher price tag, and even celebrity chef Ina Garten has given this jarred option her seal of approval .

You can find a great deal on packs of two 28-ounce jars at Costco.

Add this sauce to a variety of pasta dishes or meat entrées. 

Canned salmon is a great staple that doesn't need to be refrigerated

Canned salmon is a convenient source of protein that doesn't need to be refrigerated, so it's perfect for camping or road trips.

Kuntz drains the ingredient and serves it with mayo, onion, jalapeño, salt, and lemon juice.

Seeds of Change's microwavable quinoa-and-brown-rice packs make for an easy side

This microwavable pack of grains is wholesome and ready in just 90 seconds.

Add it as a side with a protein-heavy dinner, or use it as the base for a rice bowl.

Read Jordan Kuntz's full Costco shopping list: I live on the road full-time in a 27-foot RV. Here are the 15 things I always buy at Costco .

Olivia Yi runs the recipe blog Costco Kitchen for over 35,000 Instagram followers

Pesto is a tasty ingredient that you can add to a variety of plates.

Yi wrote that Costco's pesto — made with Genovese basil and pine nuts — is one of the best store-bought options.

You can sauté veggies and meat in it or add a few spoonfuls to a bowl of pasta . 

Kerrygold's pure Irish butter is a quality staple

Available in both salted and unsalted options, this high-quality butter is worth the higher price tag, according to the shopper. 

This rich and creamy butter works well slathered on bread or used in decadent dishes. 

You can freeze Parmigiano Reggiano to make it last longer

Kirkland Signature Parmigiano Reggiano is aged over 24 months and boasts nutty and salty undertones .

Yi recommends adding it to pasta dishes or cheese plates and then tossing the leftover rinds into soup. 

To boost the ingredient's shelf life, Yi cuts the cheese into chunks and freezes what she won't use right away.

Read Olivia Yi's full Costco shopping list: I create easy Costco recipes for over 33,000 followers. Here are 15 of my favorite things to buy .

Personal trainer Rachel MacPherson shops for her family of 6 at Costco

The pom whole-grain tortillas are a versatile carb.

Costco sells packs of Pom's tortillas, which come with 15 whole-grain shells.

This wholesome ingredient can serve as the base for many meals, like wraps, homemade enchiladas, and quesadillas. 

Snag top sirloin steak at a reasonable price

Costco sells high-quality meat for fair prices, like this lean top sirloin .

MacPherson uses it to make steakhouse-style salads and sometimes enjoys leftovers as a side for scrambled eggs.

Salsa is great to have on hand to add to a variety of dishes 

Garden Fresh's salsa sports a lively flavor profile that works with several dishes, like omelets, nachos, and baked potatoes.

MacPherson also recommended pairing it with Kirkland Signature tortilla chips. 

Read Rachel MacPherson's full Costco shopping list: I'm a personal trainer who shops for a family of 6 at Costco. Here are 21 things I always stock up on .

Chelsea Schnyer's a bartender who shops at the chain for her bar on wheels

Cranberry juice is a popular cocktail ingredient.

Schnyer grabs this Ocean Spray cranberry juice from Costco to make cocktails and mocktails, like the Tropical Vodka Cran .

Shoppers can grab a pack of two 96-ounce bottles.

This shopper always picks up limes at Costco

Limes are a common ingredient in many cocktails, from the base of a margarita to the garnish on a Long Island iced tea.

So Schnyer makes sure to grab at least three bags each trip.

These infused ice cubes are a fun drink addition 

These Herb and Lou's infused ice cubes are the perfect addition to an old fashioned that won't water it down. 

Each box comes with 12 ice cubes.

Read Chelsea Schnyer's full Costco shopping list: I'm a bartender who shops at Costco. Here are 12 things I always buy for my bar on wheels .

Solo shopper Savannah J. Frierson budgets on each Costco run 

These affordable croissants are massive.

Frierson said these croissants may have been the reason she got a Costco membership in the first place.

They're massive, fluffy, and buttery, making for a great breakfast or sandwich base. 

Make dinner easy with Kirkland stuffed bell peppers

Costco sells stuffed peppers with ground beef and rice. 

Simply pop these in the oven and serve alongside dinner rolls for an easy weeknight meal. 

Kirkland Signature thick-sliced bacon can last a while 

This pack of bacon is separated into two 1 ½-pound portions, so you can freeze one while you use the other. 

Fry up a few strips to serve alongside eggs, or add a few pieces to a BLT. 

Read Savannah J. Frierson's full Costco shopping list: I'm a solo shopper at Costco who tries to stick to a $50 budget. Here are 14 things I love to buy .

Gabriella Sorrento said she lost 40 pounds with the help of these Costco swaps

Plantain chips are an easy snack.

Sorrento said that instead of cutting out snacks on her weight-loss journey, she found ones that work with her lifestyle, like Barnana's organic plantain chips. 

They're both salty and crunchy.

For a versatile spread, snag Good Foods avocado mash

Packed with healthy fats, this avocado dip is great for snacking or adding to a sandwich. 

It pairs well with tortilla chips or veggies.

Siete tortilla chips are grain-free and tasty

This grain-free swap for normal tortilla chips is made with cassava flour, avocado oil, coconut flour, chia seeds, and salt.

You can pair it with salsa or guacamole for an easy snack.

Read Gabriella Sorrento's full Costco shopping list: I lost 40 pounds. Here are 12 Costco products that helped me lose the weight and keep it off .

Elizabeth Blasi also said she lost 40 pounds by following the keto diet and buying some Costco staples

Kirkland signature almond flour is a keto staple.

You can grab a 3-pound bag of almond flour at Costco.

Blasi wrote that the ingredient was one of the reasons she was able to "sustain a strict keto diet for an extended period."

It's versatile and can be used as a flour substitute in baking or as breading in savory dishes. 

Blasi uses coconut oil in a lot of her cooking

The keto diet is chock-full of healthy fats, so coconut oil is a helpful staple to cook with since it has a smoke point of 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

She said she'd use the ingredient to make fat bombs, which can increase your macros and satisfy a sweet tooth.

Canned chicken is versatile and high in protein

Chicken is a versatile source of protein to keep on hand. Blasi would use it in homemade pizza crust or in "avocado boats."

Read Elizabeth Blasi's full Costco shopping list: I lost 40 pounds in a year on the keto diet. Here are my 12 favorite Costco buys that helped me meet my goals .

Alana Al-Hatlani is a baker and her boyfriend is a chef  — so they snag several foods from the wholesale chain

Prosciutto is available for a good price at costco.

Al-Hatlani said they often use the salty, cured pork as a replacement for bacon in several meals, like pasta or eggs Benedict.

Shoppers can snag the meat from the chain in two 6-ounce packs.

This shopper likes to snack on Theo's organic double-chocolate cookie bites

Perfect for satisfying a sweet tooth, these dark-chocolate-covered cookie-dough bites are crunchy and tasty without being overly sugary.

You can snag a 21-ounce bag at Costco.

Mama Lil's spicy pickled peppers are a versatile ingredient and offer a kick of flavor

These Hungarian "Goathorn" peppers are soaked in a sweet brine of vinegar, sugar, garlic, maple syrup, fennel seed, and salt.

They're vinegary but not too salty, making them a great addition to foods like pizza or biscuits.

Read Alana Al-Hatlani's full Costco shopping list: I'm a professional baker and my boyfriend is a chef. Here are 13 of our favorite things to buy at Costco .

Culinary judge Meredith Ochs prepares for the holidays by getting her essentials from the warehouse

Fresh ocean spray cranberries are perfect to bake with.

Ochs loves fresh produce, so she gets excited when the 2-pound bags of Ocean Spray cranberries hit store shelves.

She grabs two and freezes one since they keep beautifully in the freezer. She can then bake cranberry-crumb cake any time of year.

Pom Wonderful pomegranates can dress up dining tables and elegant dishes

To Ochs, fresh pomegranates are beautiful both inside and out. Their blush skin is part of autumn's palette, and their round shape makes them look like natural ornaments.

Inside, pomegranates are packed with juicy arils that add a ruby-red color and tart flavor to salads, dips, and desserts.

To eat, score the peel with a knife and gently break them up by hand in a big bowl of water. The ready-to-eat arils will sink to the bottom.

Kirkland Signature praline pecans are a good addition to breakfast, lunch, and dinner dishes

Kirkland Signature praline pecans are a Costco favorite . Ochs buys them during the holidays to add sweetness and crunch to various dishes.

Pecans have a distinct buttery, slightly woody taste that's enhanced by the sugary praline coating.

She likes to crumble them over a Thanksgiving sweet-potato casserole, toss them into salads with goat cheese, and top pancakes with them for a decadent breakfast. They're also great on a cheese plate.

Read Meredith Ochs' full shopping list: I'm a culinary judge who shops at Costco for the holidays. Here are 10 things I recommend buying .

Veronica Thatcher has worked at Costco for over 17 years, so she knows the best things to get for her family

The crazy cuizine mandarin orange chicken is delicious.

Crazy Cuizine Mandarin-orange chicken  is a family favorite on Thatcher's menu twice a month. Each pack contains lightly battered chicken breast and rib meat and a sweet and tangy orange sauce.

This meal is great for a quick, easy dinner in less than 20 minutes.

Each box contains 4 pounds of chicken with two packets of orange sauce.

Mission Carb Balance tortillas are great for tacos and wraps

Mission Carb Balance tortillas are one of Thatcher's favorite products and are versatile enough for mini pizzas , wraps, and countless other meals.

They contain 4 grams of net carbs and 0 grams of sugar per serving.

Read Veronica Thatcher's full shopping list: I work at Costco and spend $100 a week there to feed my family of 4. Here are 10 things we love to buy .

Pro baker Molly Allen grabs her staple ingredients from the chain

Allen goes through a lot of butter at home.

Most of Allen's baked goods, especially cookies, start with several sticks of butter .

She always uses unsalted butter for baking, and she can grab a big package at Costco for less money than if she bought smaller ones at the grocery store.

A pack of Kirkland Signature unsalted butter comes with four 1-pound boxes.

Allen uses the Kirkland Signature semisweet chocolate chips in a variety of ways

You can't make  chocolate-chip cookies  without this key ingredient.

Allen will melt it and dip cookies, pretzel rods, and marshmallows in it for a fun, flavorful twist. 

She picks up a 4 ½-pound bag of Kirkland Signature semisweet chocolate chips.

Read Molly Allen's full shopping list: I'm a professional baker. Here are 9 staple ingredients I recommend stocking up on at Costco .

Janice Costa has curated a shopping list for people who hate cooking

The fresh additions individually portioned, cooked chicken breast is great for salads.

Costa said the Fresh Additions pre-grilled chicken is a great ingredient to keep around to throw on top of bagged salad greens, put on a sandwich, or just heat and eat on its own.

She thinks it makes portion control easy and keeps a few packages in the fridge and freezes the rest.

The Happy Village organic frozen dark cherries are a great dessert

For Costa, frozen fruit is a late-night snack that's almost as good as ice cream.

Full of antioxidants, dark cherries are her favorite. She eats them right out of the bag but they're also good on top of yogurt or salads or in a smoothie.

She's also experimented with baking them into crescent rolls for a quick, simple dessert.

Costa dislikes fish but loves the benefits of omega-3 fatty acids

Costa isn't a fan of fish but her doctor has recommended having it several times a week. 

The Pure Alaska Omega salmon oil is a great compromise since it gives her the nutritional benefits of omega-3 fatty acids — like improved heart health and reduced inflammation  — without making her house smell like fish.

Read Janice Costa's full shopping list: I shop for just myself at Costco and hate cooking. Here are 15 things I love to buy there .

Solo shopper Karlin Krishnaswami looks for as many essentials as she can find

Red's keto-friendly egg'wiches with turkey sausage hit the spot.

Krishnaswami is a big fan of Red's keto-friendly quick and easy Egg'wiches. They take just over a minute and a half to microwave and taste great with Frank's RedHot sauce. One Egg'wich usually keeps her full until morning snack time, though she sometimes supplements it with toast or a smoothie.

She recommends taking the cheese off before you cook the Egg'wich. If you microwave it without doing so, she's found the cheese will melt off.

Precooked meals from Costco save the day

Whether they're made in-house by  Costco employees  or one of the many brands in the refrigerated cases, you don't need to be a family of four to benefit from buying the warehouse's prepared meals.

Krishnaswami buys meals for herself and makes a list of the use- or freeze-by dates and hangs it on her fridge. Then, she removes a portion or two for the fridge and portions out the rest for the freezer.

This way, she doesn't have to thaw more food than she wants while saving time.

Read Karlin Krishnaswami's full shopping list: I shop for just myself at Costco and stick to a budget. Here are 15 things I love to buy and how I use them .

Lindy Vogel, a mom of 6, grabs necessities for low-effort meals

Tasty bite organic madras lentils are her go-to meal for chaotic days.

As a mom with teens in extracurricular activities, Vogel finds these microwavable pouches of Tasty Bite organic madras lentils make ideal pre-practice dinners.

Vogel loves serving her kids a hot meal, even though they can't always eat dinner together as a family.

Vogel's kids enjoy the EastWest Cuisine chicken-and-vegetable curry

With microwave and boil-in-bag options, it's fairly effortless for Vogel to prepare the EastWest Cuisine vegetable-and-chicken curry. The mild spice also means Vogel's picky kids will eat it.

She also likes that the recipe contains cauliflower and peas — veggies her family doesn't eat enough of otherwise.

Read Lindy Vogel's full shopping list: I'm a mom of 6 who hates cooking. Here are 8 things I buy at Costco to make meal planning simple .

Executive member Dominic Bucca gets dinner items for his 2-person household

Bucca stocks up on kirkland signature frozen white shrimp.

Bucca always makes room in his freezer for these easy-peel, cleaned shrimp.

He uses them in classic shrimp scampi with tons of garlic. They're also great for pasta, cioppino, or restaurant-sized shrimp cocktails at home.

The Maldon sea-salt flakes taste great on so many foods

As someone who's worked in the food industry, Bucca has learned that Maldon sea-salt flakes are many chefs' go-to seasoning.

He finds that it's the best, flakiest salt available. Bucca plans on stocking up until he runs out of pantry space.

Read Dominic Bucca's full shopping list: I pay for Costco's $120 executive membership even though I only shop for 2. Here are some of my favorite things to get for dinner .

Watch: All the differences between the Costco food courts in the US and the UK

• Main content

Oshkosh native living in Paris shares charms of Southern France in new cookbook, culinary tour

While studying at the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh, Rebekah Peppler got just the right push to follow her dreams. It took just one professor's confidence in her. 

Today the Oshkosh native lives in Paris and leads culinary tours in France. She’s carved out a career path traveling the globe writing about food, wine and cocktails. Yet no matter where she goes, her favorite cheese will always be Wisconsin cheddar.

Peppler, whose newest cookbook is her third written in France, is part of a small group of American expats who have built followings sharing their love of French cooking and culture, including Dorie Greenspan, David Lebovitz and Milwaukee native  Patricia Wells . 

Delving into the food, drinks and places that inspire her love of the south of France, Peppler’s new cookbook, in stores April 23, is “Le Sud: Recipes from Provence-Alpes-Cote d’Azur” (Chronicle Books), with photos by Joann Pai. A travelogue of taste, “Le Sud” offers a slice of time and place with recipes. 

Her previous books include  “Aperitif: Cocktail Hour the Frency Way” (Clarkson Potter), which was a 2019 James Beard Foundation Book Award nominee, and  “A Table: Recipes for Cooking and Eating the French Way” (Chronicle Books).

Peppler tries to get back to her hometown once a year to see her mother, a librarian. Between stops in New York, Toronto, San Francisco, Chicago and Seattle, she will bring her book tour to Elsewhere Market & Coffee House , 531 N. Main St., Oshkosh at 6 p.m. May 22. 

Working with Modern Adventure, she will also be leading a trip to Provence, France, Sept. 11-17. See  rebekahpeppler.com  or  modernadventure.com  for additional details. 

Peppler recently talked with the Journal Sentinel about her journey to living in France and her newest cookbook.

Making her way from Oshkosh to Paris

I grew up in Oshkosh. I was born there, studied at UW-Oshkosh, got my bachelor's in journalism news editorial with minors in art history and English. One of the reasons I wanted to stay close to home was so I could study abroad. I actually studied in England and Italy. That sparked my idea that I could live further afield later in life. 

When I graduated I decided to go to New York and culinary school. It is  ICC, the International Culinary Center , now. When I was there it was based in Soho, The French Culinary Institute. I got my degree in classic pastry arts. When I was thinking about what I wanted to do it was between that program and a similar one in Paris. I decided to move to New York first, started working as a food stylist, and spent nearing 10 years in New York doing that, but itching to do more writing. I had my feet firmly planted in the styling world, but always wanted to write and write cookbooks.

I never had a fantasy of living in France before I moved here, but I always wanted to live abroad and immerse myself in another culture and language. I started splitting my time between New York and Paris. Then it slowly became just Paris. I spend a lot of time in the U.S. for work, but my full-time life — and all my shoes and books — are in Paris. 

This expat’s first international trip didn’t happen until after high school

I went to Italy for the first time as my high school graduation present. I think I surprised my parents by choosing an international spot.

The power of positive people

Dorie Greenspan  specifically has long been a figure in my personal life. She is a dear human. She was one of the first people that planted the seed in my mind that I could move to France. I just asked her to coffee, and then asked, “What is it like to live (in France) as an American, and how do you split your time?” She was unequivocally, “Do it, just try it and see." Her confidence in my ability to take that leap was formative. 

What makes 'Le Sud' her most personal book

My interest in writing cookbooks stems from my interest in writing about food, but I’m not interested in banging out recipes and putting them in a book and putting pretty pictures in it. I’m more interested in telling stories and a narrative-driven book. That is what I strive for, and across the three books it started that way and leaned harder and harder. I think “Le Sud” is my most personal book. 

I weave in a lot of my life, as well as telling the story of the region and expanding the story outside the beautiful Mediterranean seasons, produce and lavender fields, which Provence has in spades. It also has all these other parts: rivers marshes, rice, beaches, hillsides, wines that aren’t just rosés that are really phenomenal but can be overlooked because we think of Provence and we think rosé. You have the Italian border and its influence. I wanted to learn about that more and transcribe that on the page, but also in a way that felt personal to me, and fun, hopefully funny at points.

How Julia Child’s former home became part of her book

I spent a month there, writing and living in the house. I lived in the house and cooked in the house and wrote in the house. I brought my photographer. ... I also brought my partner, Laila (Said). It felt special to wake up and make my coffee in Julia’s kitchen with the pegboard and watch the sunrise and have these surreal moments alongside real life. 

I had to eat dinner and work, connect with my spouse. There are all these things alongside the fantasy you walk into. That’s one of the things that is a bigger theme in my work in France, to separate the fantasy and the fantastic, what is real, and what can be fantastic about this fantasy, but doesn’t have to lean on the fantasy trope. I feel very privileged to live there for a month and use all the tools and develop and shoot recipes. 

These are her travel essentials

I’m always bringing back kitchen supplies! I bring a lot of salt and coffee. We were just in Japan. I brought back a copper omelet maker and some really gorgeous graters and salts.

When I do a book tour or work travel, moving between different spaces and trying to create a sense of home, I try to be in a place that has a bathtub. Water really grounds me, and I travel with bath salts. 

Who she looks to for inspiration

Melissa Clark has long been both inspiration and mentor for me. She has been such a champion of my work, which has felt like a big honor to me. Dorie Greenspan, the same. Sometimes there is this idea there is not enough to go around. I have found I have been welcomed and offered a lot of support. That is something I have never taken for granted. 

There are other writers who don’t write about food who I reach for, like Alexander Chee. He makes it look easy, but it is powerful.  

What she’s doing next

I have a tour with Modern Adventure (to Provence) in the fall. There are still seats. So if anyone from Wisconsin wants to join us, I would love it. The trip is inspired by the book. 

What this Wisconsin native misses most from home 

I still crave Wisconsin cheddar. It is one of my favorites in the world. The kind of cheddar we get in Europe is mostly English. There is nothing wrong with it. It is very good. I eat it when I can’t get my hands on Wisconsin cheddar. But there is such a flavor profile I haven’t been able to replicate in Europe. I used to bring blocks of cheddar back to New York. Also, heads up: If you travel with cheddar, take it out of your carry-on, because it gets flagged.

We’ll be stopping in Oshkosh right after Chicago (on this tour). I’m very excited. My first meal will include cheddar, and probably a brat on the grill and a seven layer salad. That is still one of my favorite things, and outside of Wisconsin no one knows what seven layer salad is! My mom makes it in a very specific way I love.

How Wisconsin plays a role in her success

It goes back to when I studied at UW-Oshkosh. I studied under an incredible teacher, Grace Lin. She still teaches. I’ll be in contact with her at the (May) event at Elsewhere (Marketplace & Coffee House). She’ll be moderating. She was very formative in starting my confidence in my writing, and also my confidence in being able to do it wherever I want. Educators can play such a huge role in pulling out the dreams of young people, laying them out in front of them and giving them the options.