As most self-proclaimed foodies will know, the International Institute of Gastronomy, Culture, Arts and Tourism awards one or a few cities the title of European Region of Gastronomy, every year. In 2026, the spotlight shines on three deliciously different regions, each with its own flavours and traditions. The best part? You can visit them all on your next Jet2holiday…
Crete, Greece
What’s a good foodie guide without a Greece mention? Its islands make the top lists for the gorgeous beaches, exceptional historic sites and unique culture. It’s no secret that Greek goodies – grilled, fresh or straight-from-the-sea – are worth an award or two as well. Over in Crete, its ancient Mediterranean diet, made up of seasonal produce, is at the heart of the island’s menu. We’re talking aromatic herbs, local cheeses, traditionally cooked meats and generous splashes of olive oil on everything.
When it comes to choosing your meal at a taverna, dakos, barley rusk salad topped with tomatoes, cheese and olive oil, is a must-try starter. For the mains, you’ve got even more options, with slow-cooked lamb, fried snails or grilled seafood dishes filling the menus. Veggies, there will be plenty of options for you as well! And that’s not all… When you’ve had enough feta to last a lifetime, vineyards and olive groves are there to welcome you for a tour, tasting and unforgettable memories. Read more about unique Cretan foodie experiences here.
Gozo, Malta
Hop aboard a speedy ferry from Malta, and you could be exploring its dinky sister island, Gozo, in less than half an hour! Inspired by a blend of Sicilian, Arabic and Mediterranean cuisines, Gozo’s unique menu features everything from pizza-like pita bread topped with seasonal veggies to hearty stews slow-cooked in local wine and garnished with fresh herbs. To tick off Gozo from your to-taste bucket list, make sure to try the local honey, often paired with cheese, and net-fresh seafood like swordfish, sea bass and octopus! Oh, and all the Maltese classics? You can try them here too! The flaky pastry filled with ricotta or peas AKA pastizzi is a very popular on-the-go snack – you’ll find it in most cafés and market stalls across the archipelago. Starting to see why it’s a top spot for foodies this year? We know we are…
Kvarner, Pula and the Istrian Coast, Croatia
Where sea, land and mountainous scenery melts into one, you’ll find the Istrian Coast. This undiscovered slice of northern Croatia is quickly becoming a go-to spot for many. And if you weren’t tempted by its coastlines, striking nature and mix of Mediterranean and Balkan culture before, that’s bound to change. The Italian-inspired coastal cuisine is just the cherry on top! Open the menu at a local trattoria and Adriatic seafood and world-renowned truffles fill the ‘mains’ section, but it all starts with an artisan spread of air-dried ham and melt-in-your-mouth cheese varieties.
When it comes to Kvarner Bay and its nearby islands, it’s the grilled scampi that sets this part of Croatia apart. Prepared simply with olive oil, garlic and a pinch of parsley, these sea delicacies are Kvarner’s speciality. And there’s more – the seaside location means calamari, oysters and mussels are all on offer too! It goes down best with a glass of local vino, and with over 30 grape varieties in the area, Kvarner’s got some corked goods to shout about. Ready for your Croatian culinary journey already?
Posted: 13th Feb 2026.