Rick Steves Recommends This Travel Splurge to ‘Savor Every Bite’ of a European Destination

Travel guru Rick Steves is known worldwide for his top tier travel tips, including helping travelers visit Europe without breaking the bank — but there’s one splurge he says is worth every euro: walking food tours. “One of the most popular sightseeing trends is food tours, which reward travelers with a full meal, a local’s insights, and edible memories,” Steves explains.

“For about $100, you can eat your way through a few neighborhoods in a few hours, while an expert explains the history and tradition behind each dish,” he writes. It’s a good point — if you’re going to be spending money dining out anyway, why not do it with the added benefit of insider insight and a deeper dive into a country’s culinary culture? Imagine sipping local wines in Portugal, sampling Spanish street food, and munching on freshly-baked baguettes in Paris — all for the cost of an upscale dinner. The bonus is that these tours are often less about hitting major touristy spots and more about experiencing a destination like a local.

Even for budget-minded travelers, Steves says the value of a guided food walk is unbeatable. Describing his most recent food tour experience in Paris, Steves says, “My guide taught me how to scrutinize and savor baguettes, croissants, and cheese, and how to appreciate the French as expert eaters.”