Culinary Journeys by Rail: Best Routes for Foodie Travelers

When it comes to blending two of life’s greatest pleasures—travel and food—few experiences compare to a culinary rail journey. Imagine rolling past breathtaking landscapes while savoring gourmet meals inspired by the regions you traverse. From France’s vineyards to Japan’s seafood markets and Canada’s rugged wilderness, these rail routes elevate travel into a true feast for the senses.

At Travel With McNellis, we curate unforgettable experiences for travelers who want their journeys to be as delicious as they are scenic. Let’s dive into the best rail routes for foodie travelers and why you’ll want to add them to your bucket list.

1. France: The Gourmet’s Playground

France is synonymous with world-class cuisine, and traveling by rail makes it easy to sample flavors across the country.

Iconic Route: Paris → Lyon → Avignon → Nice

• Paris: Begin with buttery croissants and café au lait at a Parisian boulangerie before boarding your train south.

• Lyon: Known as the gastronomic capital of France, Lyon offers bouchons serving hearty coq au vin and quenelles de brochet.

• Provence: As your train winds through lavender fields and vineyards, pair the scenery with rosé and ratatouille.

• French Riviera: Finish in Nice with fresh seafood, socca (chickpea pancake), and a glass of chilled white wine overlooking the Mediterranean.

Why it Works for Foodies: French trains (especially TGV InOui) offer convenient connections between culinary hubs, letting you taste the diversity of French cuisine without the hassle of driving. For luxury seekers, the Venice Simplon-Orient-

Express also offers seasonal journeys through France with Michelin-worthy dining onboard.

2. Japan: Tradition Meets Innovation

Japan’s rail network is world-famous, not just for its speed but also for the culinary treasures you’ll discover along the way.

Iconic Route: Tokyo → Kanazawa → Kyoto → Osaka

• Tokyo: Kick off with sushi at Tsukiji Outer Market or ramen in Shinjuku before boarding your train.

• Kanazawa: Known for its seafood, especially snow crab and sashimi, paired with locally brewed sake.

• Kyoto: Delight in kaiseki dining—multi-course seasonal meals showcasing Japan’s precision and artistry.

• Osaka: Known as “Japan’s Kitchen,” Osaka tempts with takoyaki (octopus balls), okonomiyaki (savory pancakes), and bustling street food markets.

Why it Works for Foodies: Japan’s ekiben culture—beautifully boxed meals sold at train stations—is reason enough to ride the rails. Each region crafts unique bentos featuring local specialties, so every leg of your journey becomes a new tasting adventure.

3. Canada: A Feast with a View

If you’re craving vast landscapes and comfort cuisine, Canada’s rail journeys deliver both.

Iconic Route: Vancouver → Jasper → Edmonton → Toronto

• Vancouver: Begin with Pacific Northwest flavors like fresh salmon and dim sum from the city’s thriving Asian food scene.

• The Rockies: Onboard VIA Rail’s The Canadian, enjoy chef-prepared meals using Canadian ingredients while gazing at glacier-fed lakes and towering peaks.

• Prairies & Toronto: As you roll eastward, sample bison, Alberta beef, and Ontario wines. Toronto adds global flair with diverse neighborhoods offering everything from Caribbean jerk chicken to Greek souvlaki.

Why it Works for Foodies: Meals onboard VIA Rail highlight Canadian culinary traditions while showcasing seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. Combine that with the sweeping scenery, and you have a journey where the dining car feels like a moving fine-dining restaurant.

Planning Tips for a Culinary Rail Journey

1. Book Early for Specialty Routes: Culinary-themed rail journeys—like wine tasting excursions in Europe or luxury trains in Asia—sell out quickly.

2. Research Regional Dishes: Half the fun is knowing what to look for. Make a list of must-try foods before you board.

3. Pack Smart Snacks: While trains offer meals, packing a few local treats (macarons in France, matcha sweets in Japan, maple fudge in Canada) enhances the experience.

4. Consider Guided Culinary Packages: Working with a travel advisor ensures you don’t miss hidden gems, like family-owned vineyards or exclusive cooking classes along the route.

Why Travel With McNellis?

• We pair you with the best culinary rail journeys tailored to your taste buds.

• Access to exclusive offers and promotions via our Travel Leaders partnership.

• Personalized itineraries that combine sightseeing, gastronomy, and smooth logistics.

  
  

Whether you’re sipping sake in Japan, savoring rosé in Provence, or dining against the backdrop of the Canadian Rockies, Travel With McNellis makes it seamless to indulge your wanderlust and appetite in one unforgettable trip.