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Gastronomy tourism, or culinary tourism, is not just about food but much more than that. Visiting farmers' markets to explore or attending festivals for drinks also falls under culinary tourism. Travelers place importance on this kind of tourism as well. It gives them the chance to experiment with different meals and flavors, using their taste buds to learn about other cultures. When travelers partake in culinary tourism, they leave with new recipes to try, new dishes to share with their friends, and experiences that they will never forget related to flavor. Food explorers make many unforgettable memories that they can cherish for years to come.

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CulinaryBackstreets. (2020, February 10). Step into the culinary backstreets [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MdY0_7MR1TA

Clumsy Girl Travels. (2023, March 15). Culinary Backstreets: The BEST Food Tour Company. Clumsy Girl Travels.

https://clumsygirltravels.com/culinary-backstreets/

Culinary Backstreets. (2022, July 15). Istanbul Eats: Exploring Istanbul's Culinary Backstreets [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kaapv2JNhlA

Grand View Research. (2023). Culinary Tourism Market Size, Share & Growth Report, 2030. Retrieved from Grand View Research

Hirsch, D. a. M. (2024, February 28). The best Rome Street Food Tour. 2foodtrippers. https://www.2foodtrippers.com/rome-street-food-tour/#:~:text=February%2028%2C%202024-,93,SHARES,-Pinterest

Istanbul Eats. (2017). Istanbul Eats: Exploring Culinary Backstreets. Publisher.

Menafn. (2024, February 29). Culinary Tourism Market Trends 2024, Leading Companies Share, Size and Forecast Report by 2032. Middle East North Africa Financial Network. https://menafn.com/1107915374/Culinary-Tourism-Market-Trends-2024-Leading-Companies-Share-Size-And-Forecast-Report-By-2032

Marbella Traditional Food Tour - Do Eat Better Experience. (2024, January 29). Do Eat Better Experience. https://doeatbetterexperience.com/spain-food-tour/what-to-do-in-marbella/marbella-traditional-food-tour/

The Food Ranger. (2022, August 28). Most EXTREME Street Food in Italy - The ULTIMATE Street Food Tour of Naples w @CulinaryBackstreets ! [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pYyNX6j_cMI

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Market size: The market for culinary tourism is expected to reach a valuation of USD 11.5 billion globally by 2023, and it is anticipated to expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 19.9% between 2024 and 2030. The market's expansion can be linked to rising consumer expenditure on travel and tourism, travelers' desire to sample culinary items made with locally sourced ingredients, and the increase in food travelers who explore the world and discover new cultures through cuisine. The main factor driving the market's expansion is consumers' growing interest in trying regional cuisine to engage with people and learn more about the area, its history, and its culture.

Target audience: Food lovers, adventurous eaters, and cultural enthusiasts are the primary demographic embracing culinary tourism. Travelers who prioritize sustainability and want to support local businesses and communities also tend to prefer food travel.

Potential growth opportunities: There are ample growth opportunities for food tourism, including agritourism, where visitors can experience farm-to-table dining. Additionally, sustainability practices in the food industry contribute to uplifting this industry.

Market trends: An increasing number of travelers are becoming more discerning and sophisticated, leading to a demand for specialized culinary tours that cater to specific dietary needs and interests, such as farm-to-table or vegan experiences. There's also an opportunity to enhance the culinary tourism experience through technology integration, including apps that provide recommendations and information on local cuisine, augmented reality (AR) experiences in historic food markets, and virtual tours of farms or cooking classes.

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According to research, 70% of travelers base their decision on the food and drink options available.
A "some kind of unique food experience" is something that 95% of Americans are interested in.
A recent survey found that 45% of tourists engaged in at least five distinct gastronomic activities while travelling like wine tasting and attending cooking classes .
. Travelling to enjoy unique dining and drinking experiences is a reason for 77% of millennials.
Among millennials (28-43 years old), 63% prefer dining at establishments that practice social responsibility.
59% of those surveyed said they thought food and drink had more significance now than they did five years ago.
Nowadays, 95% of tourists worldwide can be classified as food travellers.
Eighty per cent of passengers will look up food and drink options before departing for their location.

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Culinary tourists sought after excellent food that is reflective of the culture of their destinations and a whopping 95% of travelers around the world can be classed as a food traveler. Where does this increased interest in local food come from and what classifies someone as a food tourist? Our food tourism statistics explore the top food tourism statistics, the culinary tourism market, food traveler's demographic, and the most current food tourism trends.
Read on for more top statistics picked by our editor...

TOP Food Tourism Statistics

In 2022, the food tourism market was valued at $1,116.7 billion and this is expected to rise to $1,796.5 billion by 2027, a 16.8% growth..

95% of travelers around the world can now be classed as food travelers.

Before visiting their destination, 80% of travelers will research food and drink before they go.

Research shows that 70% of people pick a destination based on the food and drink there.

95% of U.S. citizens are interested in having 'some kind of unique food experience'.

45% of travelers who participated in a recent study had at least five different culinary activities during their trip away.

35% of food tourism shares are from Europe this is then followed by North America, APAC, South America, and MEA.

77% of millennials travel to have memorable eating and drinking experiences.

63% of millennials like to eat at places that show social responsibility.

59% of respondents surveyed stated that they believe food and drink are more important now than they were 5 years ago.

What do you want to know?

Local food has always been a factor tourists will contemplate when choosing their next destination, however, 59% of people think food and drink are more important now than it was 5 years ago. Why is this the case? Social media has impacted the way we travel, aesthetic-looking foods from different countries can massively influence people's choice of destination. Millennials are shaping culinary tourism as 77% of this demographic travel to have memorable eating and drinking experiences.

Food tourism refers to people traveling to enjoy the food of other countries and to further understand the location and culture. More and more people are traveling for the sole purpose of memorable eating and drinking, and this criterion is just as important as the climate for some.

Key Statistics:

95% of U.S. citizens are interested in having 'some kind of unique food experience'.

45% of travelers who participated in a recent study had at least five different culinary activities during their trip away.

In the last two years, 93% of tourists have at least one unique food or drink activity.

Food tourism statistics show that 81% of people think that food helps them understand a culture.

Gastro tourism is on the rise as 83% of people like to learn about local food and drink whilst traveling.

47% of travelers shop at a local grocery store.

59% of respondents surveyed stated that they believe food and drink are more important now than they were 5 years ago.

70% of people surveyed stated that they bring local food or drink back home as a gift.

Culinary tourism is a big market as 70% of respondents of a recent survey said they spend more on food and drink abroad.

83% of people think that food helps shape their trip and leaves a lasting impression.

Culinary tourism statistics show that 62% of people start purchasing food and drink they tried abroad at home.

According to a recent study, 73% of people stated that a variety of cuisine makes somewhere a good food destination. This was followed by regional food (36%), the reputation of the food service (18%), and tradition (95%).

The food in European countries such as Spain, Greece, Italy, and France is world-renowned and classed as the best globally.

Culinary tourism contributes significantly to the economy as it currently has a market value of $1,116.7 billion. This is expected to continue growing at a CAGR rate of 16.8%, demonstrating people's continued interest in food and drink when they travel abroad.

Key Statistics:

In 2018, the food tourism market was worth $82 billion.

8.11% was the year on the year growth rate for 2019.

35% of food tourism shares are from Europe this is then followed by North America, APAC, South America, and MEA.

According to the food tourism industry, Europe is the largest market share for food and drink. This is due to the increase in food tourists and well as cruise experiences.

Food tourism industry trends show that 37% of travelers are willing to splurge on food and drink.

Culinary tourism 'products' included food events (79%), gastronomic routes & cooking classes (62%), and visits to markets and local producers (53%).

Travelers spend 33% of their money on food.

A culinary tourist plans their destination with local cuisine in mind as it plays an important role in their choice of location. These tourists want to enjoy the food and drink to fully immerse themselves in the culture, almost like they are living like a local. When looking at the profiles of culinary tourists' millennials are the core demographic.

Key Statistics:

A recent study has shown that millennials and generation Z find that food influences their choice of destination more than generation X and baby boomers.

77% of millennials travel to have memorable eating and drinking experiences.

The age range for culinary tourists tends to be lower as generation z is very motivated to explore local food and drink despite their little travel experience.

61% of culinary travelers stated that their biggest influence when picking a new destination is the recommendation from family and friends.

53% of food travelers trust online review sites.

41% of food travelers are influenced by family and friend's social media posts.

Food travelers are:

17% more likely to consider social media before picking their destination

12% more likely to contemplate recommendations made by family and friends.

12% more likely to consider blogs, articled, and the new before booking

A study by Tikkanen found that the main motivations for food tourists are:

The food itself is an attraction

Experiencing food and drink is sought after

Foodstuffs are consumed and purchased by culinary tourists

The local food is considered a cultural phenomenon

Tourism and food links are sought after and valued.

Gourmet tourists specifically like to eat food and drink or quality and exclusiveness.

Gastronomic enthusiasts love food, enjoy up and coming restaurants, and often like to cook.

Culturally engaged tourists like to connect with the culture through food to further understand the location.

Those who are culinary adventurous like to engage with the culture but want to try non-touristy locations.

Social food travelers use food and drink abroad to socialize.

Authentic food tourists like to try traditional food that is full of flavor.

A lot of people like to buy budget and have the local street food.

Eclectic culinary tourists like to try a little bit of everything.

Some people like to try food that blends different cuisines.

A lot of travelers like to eat locally with all ingredients sourced from a local producer.

More and more people are traveling to try the local cuisine as gastronomic tourists are looking for authentic experiences to help connect with the culture. In 2022, organically grown local produce is a significant food tourism trend.

Key Statistics:

Food travel trends show that organically grown and authentic dishes are becoming more important for travelers.

63% of millennials like to eat at places that show social responsibility.

Learning about food and culture is important to travelers so tour operators who combine food with culture have an edge over competitors.

Gastronomic events are becoming increasingly popular as it gives tourists a reason to visit a destination.

Culinary tourists are very interested in having homemade meals with the locals.

The Philippines, Australia, and South Africa provide incredible dishes making them ideal destinations for food tourists as they are often after authentic experiences.

2 million locals and tourists went to the Philippines for the Pahiya Festival in 2015.

Beautiful looking food that can be posted on Instagram is a very popular culinary tourism trend as it influences others to go to this destination.

Variety is important for food tourists and is one of the main criteria for their food to be considered a memorable experience.

Whiskey torus, gin distilleries, and wineries are attracting more and more tourists.

Food tourism is becoming increasingly popular especially amongst the younger generation as this demographic is shaping how we travel due to the influence of social media. The food tourism market is not slowing down as it is expected to rise to a mammoth $1,796.5 billion by 2027, demonstrating the significance of culinary tourism on the economy. It is also interesting to discover that 70% of people spend more money on food abroad than they do at home revealing the importance of a unique food experience when traveling.

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60+ Food Tourism Statistics & Facts (2023): What is Food Tourism?

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Explore food tourism statistics including culinary tourism market statistics, culinary travel trends, food traveler demographics, and more!

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Embarking on a tour of the traditional city of Naples is an unforgettable experience. From savoring the famous Neapolitan Gazzosa drink, known for its eggy and citric taste, to observing locals enjoying it with wide legs, Naples offers a quirky culinary adventure. A visit to the oldest market, Mercato Sant'Antonio Abate, which boasts a history of 500 years, is a must-stop on the Naples street food tour. Indulging in Taralli, the typical snack of Naples, is the next delightful experience. Made with almonds and filled with spices, Taralli are unique treats that one should not miss in Naples. For a glimpse of the amazing Naples street food tour and to discover more of what Naples has to offer, check out the video linked below.

Most EXTREME Street Food in Italy - The ULTIMATE Street Food Tour of Naples w @CulinaryBackstre

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Most EXTREME Street Food in Italy - The ULTIMATE Street Food Tour of Naples w @CulinaryBackstreets !

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Since 2009, Culinary Backstreets has been offering urban cuisine tours. Currently, they provide excursions in Mexico City, Queens, New York, and twelve other destinations across Asia and Europe. Throughout the trip, visitors will get to know their local guide, but the main focus will be on the neighborhood's significance through the small, family-run cafés, food trucks, and restaurants that they visit. Culinary Backstreets' main mission is to celebrate local eats and share the culinary treasures of each locale. Whether you're an adventurous tourist or a food connoisseur, Culinary Backstreets has you covered. They offer local city guides that delve into the heart of each culinary capital, providing insider information about the best places to eat and uncovering hidden gems from Athens to Barcelona, Istanbul to Lisbon, and beyond.

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Porto -- The sensation of entering A Cozinha do Manel ("Manel's Kitchen") in Porto is so similar to entering grandma's house on Sunday that it almost confuses us. There is no one to greet you at the door, no cloth napkins folded over employees' arms. Read more

Porto -- The sensation of entering A Cozinha do Manel ("Manel's Kitchen") in Porto is so similar to entering grandma's house on Sunday that it almost confuses us. There is no one to greet you at the door, no cloth napkins folded over employees' arms. We walk confidently, as we would at home, with the sense of comfort that only intimacy is capable of inspiring.

From the wall, among the many clocks, vintage plates and drawings made on cloth napkins by customers with an artistic bent, dozens of familiar faces look back at us. They are actors, musicians, politicians and soccer stars all standing next to Zé António, the owner and manager - a confirmation of the restaurant's popularity. Read more

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Porto -- The sensation of entering A Cozinha do Manel ("Manel's Kitchen") in Porto is so similar to entering grandma's house on Sunday that it almost confuses us.

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Culinary Backstreets celebrates the unsung heroes of the food world. We explore deeply, delving into the intriguing culinary scenes of various cities to discover their stories and challenges. In this video, get a behind-the-scenes look at our adventures in Istanbul, Naples, and Barcelona.

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Embark on a culinary adventure with Culinary Backstreets, as featured on Clumsy Girl Travels. Delve into the world of authentic flavors and hidden gems in cities around the globe. Learn why Culinary Backstreets tours are a favorite among foodies and travelers alike, offering immersive experiences that go beyond the typical tourist traps. Get inspired to explore the culinary backstreets of your favorite destinations with insights from Clumsy Girl Travels.

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Culinary Backstreets: The BEST Food Tour Company

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Have you heard of the term "travel weakness?" When you travel, it's something that you absolutely can't help doing for example, some people might need to buy magnets whenever they travel somewhere new or take pictures in front of all the major landmarks. My travel weakness are food tours.

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Istanbul's Backstreets: A Culinary Journey

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Istanbul's Backstreets: A Culinary Journey

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Step into the backstreets of Istanbul and unlock a world of culinary wonders in this mesmerizing video by Culinary Backstreets. Delve into the heart of the city's vibrant food culture as each dish reveals a tale of tradition, history, and mastery. Experience the magic of Istanbul's culinary traditions, brought to life by skilled artisans and cherished by locals and travelers alike.

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Discover the Culinary Backstreets of Istanbul

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Explore Culinary Backstreets through Books

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Explore Culinary Backstreets through Books

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Culinary Backstreets Books: Culinary Backstreets has published several books that offer a deeper exploration of culinary backstreets in different cities. These books often feature stories, recipes, and photographs that showcase the diverse and authentic food experiences found in lesser-known neighborhoods and markets.

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Istanbul Eats: Exploring the Culinary Backstreets

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Istanbul Eats: Exploring the Culinary Backstreets : Author, Author, Author: Amazon.ca: Books