SINGAPORE, December 5, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Digital travel platform Agoda has compiled a list of must-see food destinations in Asia for travelers looking to plan their next trip based as much on what’s on the plate as what’s on the itinerary. From aromatic street noodle stalls to century-old markets and regional comfort foods, these cities show how food can be the most memorable part of any trip.
According to Agoda’s recently released 2026 Travel Outlook report, culinary experiences are increasingly becoming a key motivation for travel, with more travelers seeking local flavors, regional specialties and immersive dining experiences. Whether it’s slurping noodles at a night market or enjoying a traditional dish passed down through generations, food emerges as one of the most powerful ways to connect with a destination.
Rathhi, president of the Viur association, Agodashared: “Our 2026 Travel Outlook report shows that food is no longer just a nice-to-have on the itinerary, it’s becoming a key reason why people choose where to go, with a growing share of travelers prioritizing local dishes and street food experiences when planning their trips. From khao soi in Chiang Mai to tonkotsu ramen in Fukuoka, Asia is no longer just a destination; it’s a menu, and travelers want to taste everything.
Here is Agoda’s selection of six tasty destinations where travelers can experience the diverse flavors of Asia:
- Chiang Mai, Thailand – In the cool hills of northern Thailand, Chiang Mai tempts visitors with rich, comforting dishes like khao soi, a coconut curry noodle soup topped with crispy noodles, as well as local dishes such as sai ua (northern sausage) and chili dips like nam prik ong. Night markets and food stalls around the Old Town and Chang Phuak Gate invite travelers to taste their way through the flavors of Lanna while soaking up the city’s laid-back charm and vibrant cultural scene.
- Penang (George Town), Malaysia – George Town, the capital of Penang, is a culinary hub where Malay, Chinese and Indian influences come together in bustling kopitiams and hawker centers. Travelers can savor char kway teow, asam laksa, nasi kandar and Hokkien mee in a few blocks lined with heritage streets. Between bites, visitors can stroll through colorful shops and street art, making Penang an ideal destination for those who want culture and cuisine served side by side.
- Hoi An, Vietnam – With its lantern-lit old town and riverside setting, Hoi An combines bustling streets with typical central Vietnamese dishes. Travelers can try cao lau (pork and green vegetable noodles), white rose dumplings, and local versions of banh mi at family restaurants and market stalls. Cooking classes and market tours offer hands-on ways to experience the region’s culinary traditions, transforming a stay in Hoi An into an immersive culinary journey.
- Tainan, Taiwan – Often considered the unofficial food capital of Taiwan, Tainan is loved for its traditional snacks and night market culture. Visitors can enjoy dan zai noodles, milkfish dishes, coffin toasts and classic Taiwanese desserts such as shaved ice and tofu puddings. With its historic temples and old streets as a backdrop, Tainan invites travelers to slow down, snack frequently, and discover why locals hold its flavors so dear.
- Jeonju, South Korea – Jeonju is renowned as the birthplace of Jeonju-style bibimbap, a bowl of colorful rice topped with vegetables, meat and gochujang. The town’s traditional Hanok village, teahouses and makgeolli (rice wine) restaurants create a setting where food, history and hospitality come together. Travelers eager to explore Korean cuisine beyond the big cities can enjoy generous spreads of banchan (side dishes) and experience the slower, more traditional side of K-food culture.
- Fukuoka, Japan – On the southern Japanese island of Kyushu, Fukuoka is a favorite foodie destination for its Hakata-style tonkotsu ramen, known for its rich pork-based broth and thin noodles. As night falls, the city’s riverside yatai (open-air food stalls) serve skewers, hotpots and local specialties in a lively yet relaxed atmosphere. It’s an ideal destination for travelers who want to experience Japanese culinary culture in a more relaxed and accessible setting.
Agoda offers more than 6 million vacation properties, more than 130,000 flight itineraries and more than 300,000 activities, all of which can be combined into a single booking. Discover the best deals on the Agoda mobile app and start planning your next adventure today.
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SOURCE Agoda
