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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.

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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…
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