Food has a way of telling us where the world is headed, and 2026 looks particularly exciting for travelers drawn to delicious experiences. Across the globe, destinations are seeing a culinary renaissance, spurred by new Michelin Guides and a renewed focus on local flavors. From historic European cities to emerging food scenes, there’s so much to explore. I’m always looking for places that offer a genuine sense of place through their food, and this year offers some truly compelling options.
Venice Italy’s Grand Transformation
Venice is undergoing a significant hotel renaissance, and it’s poised to completely reshape the city’s dining scene by 2026. Known for its iconic canals and historic palaces, the city is preparing for a wave of high-profile luxury hotel openings. Brands like Orient Express, Cheval Blanc, Rosewood, and Airelles are all set to establish a presence, promising a new era of traveler experiences.
While it’s true that tourist traps are an inevitable part of any hugely popular destination, there are already incredible local chefs quietly reimagining Venetian cuisine. Places like Vini da Gigio, a discreet family-run restaurant, offer a glimpse into authentic lagoon flavors. However, with the arrival of internationally renowned hotel groups, we can expect big-name chefs to helm their restaurants. This influx has the potential to elevate dining standards across the city, though it might also lead to rising prices.
Dining Hotspots Emerge
The neighborhoods most likely to see this shift include Cannaregio, an area known for its independent spirit, near where the Orient Express will open. The island of Giudecca, just south of the main island, is also set for change with the opening of Airelles Venezia. This is happening steps away from the well-known Hotel Cipriani, a Belmond Hotel.
For those seeking a more tranquil experience, visiting Venice in the quieter, crisp winter months offers a slower, more local pace. It’s also a great time to snag reservations at some of the city’s top dining establishments, both old and new, before the summer crowds and major events like the Biennale draw everyone in.
Where to stay in Venice
The accommodations in Venice are as spectacular as the city itself. For a truly unique experience, the Aman Venice, set in the monumental Palazzo Papadopoli on the Grand Canal, is exceptional. For something more intimate, consider tucked-away spots like Madama Venice.
The Dolomites Italy’s Alpine Appeal
The Dolomites in Northern Italy are another Italian destination to watch, especially with Cortina hosting the Winter Olympic Games in February 2026. This event is a turning point for the region, bringing significant investment in infrastructure, refined mountain hotels, and increasingly ambitious alpine cooking. It’s an exciting time to experience this UNESCO World Heritage site.
The region’s culinary identity is deeply rooted in its terroir, with menus featuring ingredients like buckwheat, speck (smoked ham), and mountain cheeses. Chefs are skillfully blending these local staples with modern techniques, sometimes drawing inspiration from beyond the Italian Alps. The result is an alpine cuisine that feels both authentic and innovative.
Seasons of Delight
February offers a dramatic spectacle, with the setting sun casting an electric-pink glow on the mountains, making it an ideal time for atmospheric dining. However, if you prefer longer days for hiking and access to a wider variety of produce, the summer months are equally rewarding. Dining here during these times allows you to savor the essence of the mountains.
Visiting before the post-Games tourism truly reshapes prices and the pace of life could be a smart move. I imagine my family would absolutely love the dramatic scenery here, perhaps a bit of hiking for Michael and me while Lily and Ethan enjoy the crisp mountain air. It would be a different kind of adventure than our usual city breaks.
Where to stay in the Dolomites
For a truly special stay, bookmark Forestis, known for its incredible wellness offerings and Michelin Keys. In Cortina, the chalet-style De Len offers a cozy and stylish mountain retreat.
Amalfi Coast Italy’s Coastal Charm Redefined
Italy’s legendary Amalfi Coast is back on my radar for 2026, thanks in part to new travel connections. The launch of Belmond’s new train service starting in May will offer a different, more elegant way to arrive on this stunning coastline. Once there, the focus remains on the elemental flavors that define the region—fresh anchovies, vibrant lemons, and handmade pasta—all served with a renewed sense of confidence and flair.
The ideal times to visit are May and late September. During these months, the kitchens are cooking with seasonality at the forefront, reflecting the peak freshness of ingredients. The coast itself regains its luminous glow, making it a truly magical experience. I can already picture us enjoying a leisurely meal with the sparkling Mediterranean Sea as our backdrop.
Culinary Highlights
The cuisine here is a celebration of simplicity and quality. Expect dishes that highlight the bounty of the sea and the land, prepared with traditional techniques that have been passed down through generations. It’s a place where food is deeply intertwined with the landscape and the culture.
For families, the accessible beauty of the coast, combined with delicious, fresh food, makes it a fantastic option. Exploring charming towns like Positano and Ravello, with opportunities for boat trips and enjoying gelato, sounds like a perfect holiday. My children would especially love the vibrant colors and the chance to taste some of the freshest seafood.
Where to stay on the Amalfi Coast
The Amalfi Coast boasts numerous luxurious hotels. Il San Pietro di Positano, with its Three Keys, is a highly recommended option. For those seeking boutique charm, Casa Buonocore offers a more intimate experience.
Venice Italy’s Resplendent Dining Scene
Venice is buzzing with anticipation for 2026, as a significant hotel renaissance is set to redefine its already celebrated dining scene. The city, renowned for its intricate network of canals and historic palazzi, is preparing for a wave of high-profile luxury hotel openings from major hospitality players. Establishments like Orient Express, Cheval Blanc, Rosewood, and Airelles are all vying for a piece of this iconic destination, promising to reshape how travelers experience and dine in the floating city.
While the allure of Venice can unfortunately attract its share of tourist traps, a dedicated contingent of local chefs are already innovating with lagoon cuisine, showcasing restraint and confidence. However, these authentic culinary treasures can be somewhat hard to find amidst the more commercial offerings. The arrival of internationally recognized hotel groups, however, brings with it the promise of renowned chefs leading their upscale restaurants. This influx is expected to push dining standards higher across the city, though it may also contribute to increased prices, a common trend in such evolving luxury destinations.
Neighborhoods to Watch
Key neighborhoods poised for a culinary and hospitality shift include Cannaregio, an area on the northern side known for its independent vibe, and where the Orient Express is slated to open within the Palazzo Donà Giovannelli. The laid-back island of Giudecca, situated south of the main island, is also anticipating change with the upcoming opening of Airelles Venezia. This new establishment will be located just steps from the soon-to-reopen Three-MICHELIN-Key Hotel Cipriani, A Belmond Hotel, Venice, signaling a concentration of luxury hospitality.
For travelers seeking a more serene Venetian experience, the suggestion to swap the sweltering summers and the Biennale period (May 9 to November 22) for the quieter, crisp winter months is highly recommended. During this quieter season, the city ticks to a slower, more local rhythm, making it easier to enjoy the finest dining establishments and experience a more authentic side of Venice.
Where to find exceptional stays
Venice offers a unique array of spectacular hotels. The Aman Venice, housed within a grand palazzo on the Grand Canal, provides an unparalleled experience. For those preferring smaller, more secluded accommodations, Madama Venice is an excellent choice, offering charm and intimacy.