This Valentine’s Day, food has taken centre stage as a primary reason for travel, with a surge in bookings for gastronomic experiences. According to the latest data from Trip.com Group, food-related bookings have increased by 43% year-on-year, and the demand for fine dining has seen an impressive rise. Food enthusiasts are now planning their trips specifically to explore unique culinary experiences, making gastronomic travel a defining trend for 2026.

Food as the Focus: A Rise in Culinary-Centric Travel

Travel for food has evolved from a niche interest to a main driver of travel plans, especially this Valentine’s Day. A growing number of travellers are dedicating their vacations to gourmet experiences, and they are crossing borders in search of exceptional dining opportunities. Trip.com’s Why Travel report highlights that worldwide searches for “food travel” have grown by 18% year-on-year, with a similar surge in searches for expert-led resources like the Michelin Guide.

Culinary travel is no longer just about dining; it’s about the entire experience. Trip.com’s data indicates that fine-dining searches have demonstrated steady double-digit growth, particularly in markets like Hong Kong, Taiwan, Japan, Singapore, South Korea, Thailand, and the United Kingdom. This trend underscores the importance of immersive dining experiences for modern travellers, many of whom seek unique, personalised restaurant experiences to commemorate special occasions such as anniversaries and celebrations.

Top Valentine’s Day Destinations for Culinary Enthusiasts

For those looking to combine romance and gastronomy this Valentine’s Day, the top travel destinations are a reflection of the world’s most renowned culinary hubs. Asian cities like Bangkok, Seoul, and Tokyo are leading the charge as favourite destinations for food-centric getaways, with travellers from all over the globe seeking out local delicacies and fine-dining experiences. Cities like Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, and Hanoi are also attracting increasing numbers of food-loving tourists, particularly for their diverse and vibrant culinary scenes.

In Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh City and Phuket are quickly becoming hotspots, especially for Chinese and South Korean travellers, while lesser-known destinations like Da Nang and Phu Quoc Island in Vietnam are seeing a rise in popularity among Hong Kong and South Korean travellers.

In Europe, cities like London, Madrid, Paris, and Rome remain quintessential gastronomic destinations. However, cities such as Istanbul, Venice, and Porto are also climbing the ranks as romantic culinary destinations. Even unconventional choices like Algiers, Cairo, and Tunis are gaining traction for their rich culinary heritage and unique food offerings, making them appealing options for Valentine’s Day trips.

Top Restaurants for a Romantic Valentine’s Day Dining Experience

For those planning a special, romantic dinner this Valentine’s Day, Trip.com Group’s rankings offer curated lists of the best dining experiences around the world. With the use of Trip.Best, a data-backed platform, travellers can discover top restaurant recommendations, based on global rankings, ensuring a memorable gastronomic experience.

Trip.Gourmet, another resource under Trip.com Group, compiles an annual list of top restaurants across 68 countries and 18,000 dining destinations. This guide provides travellers with a comprehensive selection of fine-dining restaurants, perfect for celebrating Valentine’s Day with a memorable culinary experience.

Some of the top fine-dining restaurants that feature on the list include Odette in Singapore, Eatanic Garden in Seoul, and Arpège in Paris. With the help of Trip.com’s platform, travellers can search for the perfect dining experience based on their location, from luxury fine-dining options to must-visit eateries in cities around the world.

Food-Driven Travel Continues to Shape 2026 Tourism Trends

The rise of gastronomic travel, especially around Valentine’s Day, signals a significant shift in how people view travel. No longer just about sightseeing or relaxation, food is now a driving force behind holiday decisions. With an increased demand for fine dining, adventure-driven food tours, and unique culinary experiences, it’s clear that the modern traveller seeks more than just a meal, they’re looking for an experience that connects them to the culture, people, and passion of a destination.

For those planning a getaway this Valentine’s Day, the opportunity to enjoy a culinary journey is more accessible than ever. Food has become the main focus of travel plans which allow people to experience both Michelin-starred restaurants and regional food specialties. Food tourism will continue to expand which means more people will select travel destinations based on their dining options in 2026 because dining has become an essential element of your travel planning.

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