For many British travellers planning their next European escape, the allure of exquisite cuisine and fine wines often plays a significant role. New research from cruise and tour operator Riviera Travel has identified the top European cities projected to offer the best food and wine experiences in 2026, with the French capital, Paris, taking the coveted top spot.
Paris achieved a near-perfect score, scoring 117 out of a possible 120 points. This impressive ranking is attributed to its remarkable 519 Michelin-starred restaurants and France's substantial 51,782 award-winning wines. From enjoying a glass of wine in Montmartre to sampling freshly baked croissants, Paris solidifies its reputation as a global culinary epicentre.
Following Paris, Milan secured second place with a score of 108. The Italian city, renowned for its fashion and historical architecture, boasts 130 Michelin-starred restaurants. Crucially, Milan distinguished itself by offering the highest number of food tours on the list, with 688 available, providing ample opportunities for visitors to explore its vibrant culinary scene beyond its famous fashion week.
Italy demonstrated its enduring appeal for food and wine enthusiasts by dominating the top ten, with six of its cities making the cut. Rome and Naples secured third and fourth positions respectively, celebrated for their world-famous authentic flavours and renowned wineries. Other Italian entries include Florence (6th), Venice (7th), and Verona (9th), underscoring the country's diverse and rich gastronomic landscape.
Joanne Lynn, a Travel Expert at Riviera Travel, highlighted the growing importance of food and wine as a central element of holiday experiences, particularly during the vibrant summer months. She noted that while Paris leads the rankings, Italy's strong presence in the top ten firmly establishes its position as a favourite destination for those seeking exceptional culinary adventures, from Michelin-starred dining to authentic local cuisine and vineyard tours.
The full list of top European cities for food and wine also includes Madrid (5th), Lisbon (8th), and Nice (10th), offering a diverse range of destinations for British holidaymakers to consider for their future culinary journeys.