Planning a culinary road trip: Best foodie destinations in Southern Europe?

I am currently mapping out a two-week trip through Southern Europe specifically focused on finding the best local culinary experiences. I'm torn between focusing on the tapas culture in Spain, the regional pasta varieties in Italy, or perhaps exploring the fresh seafood markets along the Greek coast. If you had to pick a few must-visit cities or hidden gems for an authentic food lover's itinerary, where would you go? I would love to hear your recommendations for both high-end dining and the best street food spots.

For Spain, definitely head to San Sebastian. The pintxos bars in the Old Town are legendary, and for high-end, Arzak is a life-changing experience.

You cannot miss Bologna in Italy. It is the food capital of the country. If you are debating travel logistics for your trip, check out this guide on Eurail Pass vs. Point-to-Point Tickets before you book your train segments.

In Greece, skip the tourist traps in Athens and go straight to Thessaloniki. The street food there, especially the koulouri, is incredible.

If you want authentic pasta, spend a few days in Modena. The balsamic vinegar tours are just as impressive as the Michelin-starred restaurants.

Seville is my favorite for tapas. Try the Espinacas con Garbanzos at El Rinconcillo; it is one of the oldest bars in the city.

For a mix of everything, Sicily is unmatched. The street food in Palermo—like arancini and panelle—is better than most high-end meals I've had elsewhere.

Actually, if you are looking for a totally different vibe for your next adventure, you might want to look into planning a road trip through the Scottish Highlands instead, though it is obviously not for the Mediterranean food!

Valencia is a must for authentic paella. Make sure you go to a place that cooks it over an open wood fire.

Head to Crete for the freshest seafood. The coastal tavernas in Chania serve catch-of-the-day that is simple but perfectly seasoned with local olive oil.

Don't overlook Parma. The Prosciutto and Parmigiano-Reggiano factories are a pilgrimage for any serious foodie.

San Sebastian for the win. You can spend a whole week just hopping between pintxos bars and never have the same bite twice.

Naples is essential for pizza, obviously, but the fried street food like 'cuoppo' is the real hidden gem there.

If you visit during the warmer months, keep in mind that many local spots close for the summer holidays, so double-check your dates if you are also planning a summer trip with festivals in mind.