Skip to main content

Eat like a local: 2025’s best affordable foodie destinations revealed

The best budget-friendly food cities you haven't heard of (yet)

Alassio Italy
Tama66 / Pixabay

Airbnb’s 2025 summer travel trends report is in, and it’s clear that travelers are hungry, but also smart about where they spend. This year, food-loving explorers are skipping the overpriced hotspots and heading to more affordable, authentic culinary destinations around the globe. While Amsterdam and Positano still have their charm, they’re being traded in for places where you’re less likely to get served a tourist menu and more likely to discover the heart of a local food scene.

Leading the list is Alassio, Italy, a gorgeous coastal town that offers the beauty of Positano without the inflated price tags. Here, fresh-caught seafood, wild herbs, and the region’s famous Riviera Ligure DOP olive oil take center stage.

Recommended Videos

In the Netherlands, travelers are bypassing Amsterdam in favor of Rotterdam, a dynamic, modern city known for its diverse, globally influenced food culture. Thanks to a strong expat community, you’ll find everything from Indonesian street food to Michelin-starred innovation, often at a better value.

Over in Japan, Arakawa City in Tokyo is making waves as a quieter, more traditional alternative to tourist-heavy neighborhoods. Think handmade gyoza, intimate ramen shops, and even cooking classes that let you dive hands-on into local cuisine.

Back in the U.S., Oneonta, New York represents the best of rural charm meets foodie flair. With a focus on farm-to-table fare and standout local breweries, it’s the only American destination to make Airbnb’s top picks – and a solid one at that.

Under-the-radar foodie destinations: The full list

  • Alassio, Italy
  • Rotterdam, Netherlands
  • Chiclana de la Frontera, Spain
  • Belo Horizonte, Brazil
  • Shillong, India
  • Marloth Park, South Africa
  • Arakawa City, Japan
  • Rawai, Thailand
  • Santa Teresita, Argentina
  • Oneonta, New York, United States
Amanda Teague
Amanda, an accomplished freelance writer featured in several online publications, is a dedicated explorer of both the world…
Spring flight prices are dropping: Here’s where to book your next big adventure
Head down under for the best flight deals of the season
Sydney, Australia harbor

Spring is the perfect time to book your next getaway, with flight prices dropping in key destinations around the world. Kayak’s annual Spring Savings Report highlights the best places to save on air travel, and the results might surprise you.

For those eyeing international travel, Australia is the place to be. Sydney and Melbourne top the list, with airfare prices dropping by 16% and 14%, respectively. The average ticket to Sydney now costs $1,105, saving travelers $213, while Melbourne fares are averaging $1,237, offering $205 in savings. As it’s shoulder season in Australia, temperatures remain comfortable in the 60s and 70s, perfect for enjoying outdoor activities like coastal walks and breezy dinners.

Read more
This Florida city was just named the top trending destination in the United States
West Palm Beach is getting the recognition it deserves
West Palm Beach

Looking for your next sunny escape? Tripadvisor just unveiled its 2025 Travelers' Choice Awards, and the top trending destination in the United States might surprise you: West Palm Beach, Florida.

Located along South Florida’s Atlantic coast and separated from its glitzy neighbor Palm Beach by the Lake Worth Lagoon, West Palm Beach is officially having a moment. Known for its beautiful beaches, excellent golf courses, and cultural attractions like Peanut Island and the Norton Museum of Art, the city offers a little something for everyone.

Read more
Tulsa’s best bites: 8 must-try restaurants and bars
Where to get a meal in T-Town
Tulsa, Oklahoma

Tulsa is way more than just a stop on historic Route 66. The metro area of more than 1 million is good enough for the second largest in the state of Oklahoma. With that kind of stature, there's a lot to love in and around town, especially if you like a top-notch meal.

Not too long ago, Tulsa established itself as a top spot for the craft beer movement. Now, it's become a worthy player in America's culinary game, touting all kinds of cuisines and a bar scene to boot. If you make it out that way, try one of these excellent Tulsa dining options.
FarmBar

Read more
OSZAR »