Only the best hotels were chosen to be added to our collection after our specialists combed all of Europe for the finest lodging. We keep an eye out for special dining experiences that give your vacation a dash of the gastronomic. We share some of our favorite culinary experiences in Europe, from preparing halloumi in Greece to experiencing a taste explosion on a volcanic island.

Maltese

It’s no surprise that this culturally rich island is teeming with eateries because the Maltese enjoy their food and eating out is a significant element of the local way of life. In the historic Valletta, you’ll find one of the best at Rosselli AX Privilege Malta, a 17th-century Baroque hotel. The hotel‘s Michelin-starred namesake restaurant, Under Grain, was designed in the style of the vintage tailor shops that formerly lined the streets. It is genuinely a custom-made eating experience, down to the pincushion bill holders, sewing-pattern created menus, and wall-mounted photographs of Maltese tailors. However, the culinary art is what really steals the show. There is a tapestry of fine dining, with mouthwatering meals like roasted sea scallops and honey-smoked chicken on the tasting menu, followed by irresistible desserts. once your experience is over

Porto

With a two-Michelin star restaurant, The Yeatman in Porto‘s wine area is a popular destination for foodies. Portuguese cuisine is presented with flair and is complemented by mesmerizing views of the Douro River and ancient Porto. With creative tasting menus, thorough descriptions, and – given the hotel’s genuine credentials as a wine hotel – flawless wine pairings, Chef Ricardo Costa and his staff put on an impeccable performance. The hotel‘s concept of wine is carried throughout; during a wine workshop, guests can sample vintage wines from the cellar, take a Merlot scrub in the spa, or splurge out on a Master Suite to sleep in a bed shaped like a barrel.

Wine Tour: 2 Wine Estates, Lunch and River Cruise
Discover the natural beauty and world-renowned wine of the UNESCO-listed Douro Valley on a private wine tour that transports you to two different wineries and included a cruise on the Douro River, so you can admire the scenery from a new perspective. You won’t have to worry about taking the wheel after indulging, either—instead, you can sit back and soak up the sights. Experience the best of the UNESCO-listed Douro Valley without having to plan Benefit from the undivided attention of your private guide Sample a range of wine and food, and cruise on the Douro River Stress-free hotel pickup and drop-off are included

Read more about Private Douro Valley Wine Tour: 2 Wine Estates, Lunch and River Cruise – https://www.viator.com/tours/Porto/Douro-Valley-Wine-Tour-Full-Day-with-2-Wine-Estates-Lunch-and-River-Cruise/d26879-7592P85?mcid=56757

Cyprus

At Casale Panayiotis in Cyprus, you’ll feel very much like you’re there. This charming hideaway is nestled among the Troodos Mountains’ slopes amid citrus-strewn orchards and fragrant pines. You can eat and drink like a local here; there are halloumi-making classes, wine tastings, and you can pick up traditional cooking skills like preparing palouzes (a sweet grape jelly perfumed with orange blossom). Fruits and vegetables are produced on-site at the Byzantino restaurant, and ingredients are purchased locally. Eat traditional Cypriot dishes like grilled octopus, soufflé made with feta and courgette, and Baklava, which are tiny pastries filled with pistachios and covered in syrup, for dessert. Don’t miss the Sunday meze, a leisurely luncheon where dishes of treats are continuously brought out.

Winery Marathon Full Day Tour in Cyprus
Whether you are a connoisseur or just a lover of good wine, getting up close and learning more about local winemaking traditions is an unforgettable adventure. Cyprus has a rich history in wine-making. With many wine villages, it’s the ideal place for anyone to enjoy a relaxing holiday in. Try a traditional wine directly out of the barrel as well as local wines made from different grape varieties growing on the island. Savor Commandaria wine, the legendary ancient wine, known to be the world’s oldest wine still being produced. Line up, raise your glass and prepare your senses!

Read more about Winery Marathon Full Day Tour in Cyprus with pickup from Larnaca – https://www.viator.com/tours/Larnaca/Winery-Marathon-Full-Day-Tour/d22376-119807P20?mcid=56757

Santorini

Celebrating couples flock to the palatial hotels in Oia, Santorini, which cling to the cliffside for romantic caldera views and fine dining experiences. We especially like Mystique, A Luxury Collection Hotel. 41 apartments that resemble caves, a restorative spa, and three exquisite restaurants are housed in whitewashed buildings that tumble down the mountainside. Salmon and Champagne for breakfast, lunch on the cliff, and dinner in a hidden wine cave complete with flickering candles, eclectic Mediterranean dishes, and wine from the 150-year-old cellar are all options.

Small-Group Cooking Class and Wine Tasting
Santorini wine and food — all in one half-day tour. After sampling local wine at two Santorini wineries, you’ll meet a local chef for a Greek cooking class. Prepare classics such as an authentic Greek salad and caramelized pork, and learn about Santorini’s cuisine as you cook. This small-group tour runs with just eight people for a personalized experience. Visit two Santorini wineries and learn about volcanic viticulture from a guide Sample up to eight different glasses of wine including assytriko and nykteri Learn how to cook some of Santorini’s signature dishes Small-group tour with a maximum of eight ensures personalized attention

Read more about Santorini Small-Group Cooking Class and Wine Tasting – https://www.viator.com/tours/Santorini/Santorini-Small-Group-Cooking-Class-and-Wine-Tasting/d959-6174COOKINGCLASS?mcid=56757

Crete

You have an abundance of eating options at the Minoan-style Grecotel Amirandes Boutique Resort in Crete. There are seven wonderful restaurants to choose from, ranging from seaside Petrino for boat-fresh fish and Greek meze to Minotaur with authentic Picasso pottery and typical Italian cuisine. The best experience, nevertheless, can be had at Lago Di Candia, a fine-dining restaurant situated on a floating platform on a lagoon. Start with a sea bass ceviche with black garlic appetizer, then indulge in lobster surf & turf and hot chocolate “soup” for dessert.

Chania Old Town Private Tour
Maximize time in Crete with a half-day private tour of Chania. Get picked up at your hotel or the location of your choosing in Chania and set out on a sightseeing tour focused on local history and heritage. See top landmarks including the Old Venetian Harbor, Lighthouse of Chania, Firkas Fortress, and Hassan Pascha Mosque. Get to know Chania’s Old Town and the many cultures that influenced its character. Discover the history of Crete during a private tour Explore the Old Town of Chania and see its landmarks Learn about the cultures that contributed to local character Personalize the itinerary according to your interests

Read more about Chania Old Town Private Tour – https://www.viator.com/tours/Chania/Private-Tour-on-Chanias-Old-Town/d4251-181233P1?mcid=56757

Mallorca

At La Residencia, a Belmond Hotel, Mallorca, you can experience a more traditional side of Mallorca away from the well-known coastal resorts. This luxurious refuge is tucked away in the Tramuntana Mountains’ foothills, surrounded by centuries-old olive groves and citrus trees that give off pleasant scents. The highlight is the gastronomic discoveries that extend beyond the dinner table, in addition to the spa that has won awards and the beautiful décor. Along with Pancho and Luna, the hotel’s resident donkeys, you may go on an excursion through the olive trees to a shepherd’s home high in the hills where you can have a magnificent lunch. While savoring a basket of regional fare and wine, you may see the breathtaking scenery. Finish it off with an afternoon cup of tea at the hip Café Miró; ask for the Flor D’Oli mix, which was made with tea made from chopped olive branches with rose, lavender, and camomile.

Private Tour of Valldemossa, Soller and Serra de Tramuntana
When your cruise ship sails into the pretty port of Palma de Mallorca, embark on an exploration of the idyllic island on a private 6-hour shore excursion. Admire seaside splendor as you venture to the traditional village of Valldemossa, a place replete with colorful flowers and antique architecture. Gain cultural insight into the villages of Deia and the verdant Soller Valley; sample seafood specialties in the coastal town of Port Solier; and absorb panoramic vistas of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Serra de Tramuntana mountain range. Entry fees and food and drink are not included in this tour. Private shore excursion from Palma de Mallorca port with a local tour guide Visit the charming villages of Valldemossa and Port Soller Drive through the Soller Valley and the beautiful coastal village of Deia See the Serra de Tramuntana, a UNESCO World Heritage Site Private tour ensures a more personalized experience Covered by Viator’s worry-free policy: guaranteed on-time return to your ship

Read more about Palma de Mallorca Shore Excursion: Private Tour of Valldemossa, Soller and Serra de Tramuntana – https://www.viator.com/tours/Mallorca/Palma-de-Mallorca-Shore-Excursion-Private-Tour-of-Valldemossa-Soller-and-Serra-de-Tramuntana/d955-5420PRTPMIVALL?mcid=56757

Italy

Therasia Resort Sea & Spa is located on a remote section of Vulcano among Italy’s less well-known Aeolian Islands. It is one of the best places in Italy for thalassotherapy because of the volcanic island’s sulphurous vapors, which are discharged directly from the seabed. However, this destination offers more than just tranquility. You can go on hikes through volcanic craters and dine like a superstar at Il Cappero, a Michelin-starred restaurant run by the chef Giuseppe Biuso, who is renowned for his inventive cooking. Only the best ingredients, such as hand-picked seasonal produce, are used in his dishes, and he also gives them a sense of his Ischian heritage.

Lipari and Vulcano Private Boat Tour
Sicily’s Aeolian Islands are considered among the most picturesque in the Mediterranean. Visit two in one day with this private boat tour that cruises around both Lipari and Vulcano. Set off on the beautiful mahogany “Eoliana” and spend the day exploring the most dazzling beaches and stretches of coastline on both islands. Enjoy free time on Vulcano to climb to the crater’s edge, soak in the thermal mud baths, and relax on the volcanic sand beaches. A private boat tour to explore both Lipari and Vulcano in one day Stops to swim and snorkel (gear and towels provided) Dock on Vulcano to hike and visit the thermal mud baths (own expense) Water, wine, fresh fruit, and bruschetta on board

Read more about Lipari and Vulcano Private Boat Tour (7 hours) – https://www.viator.com/tours/Aeolian-Islands/Private-boat-tour-of-Lipari-and-Vulcano/d30631-57259P5?mcid=56757

Madeira

Private Dolphin and Whale Watching Tour
A Madeira whale-watching tour by private motor yacht gives your party a front-row view without the crowds. Embark aboard ‘Miranda’ and let your skipper search the open seas for marine life including dolphins, whales, and sea turtles. You’ll have a luxurious time with this privately chartered boat equipped with refreshments, sparkling wine, snorkel gear, and shower. 2- to 4-hour private charter by motor yacht from Madeira Island Snorkel and spot marine life including whales and dolphins Light refreshments and a glass of sparkling wine keep you hydrated Departures throughout the day cater to individual schedules

Read more about Private Dolphin and Whale Watching Tour in Madeira – https://www.viator.com/tours/Funchal/Whale-Watching-Private-Tour-Including-Drinks/d22388-41625P5?mcid=56757