Condé Nast Traveler’s 2025 ranking crowns Thailand. See the top 15 countries for cuisine, must-try dishes, and package prices with nonstop flights from Russia.
Condé Nast Traveler has unveiled its reader-voted ranking of countries with the most compelling cuisines for 2025. For travelers from Russia, there’s a practical bonus: six of the destinations are easy to reach on nonstop flights. The most affordable packages start at roughly 72,000 rubles for Turkey, which placed 15th, while a trip to the top-ranked country comes in just above 130,000 rubles.
Thailand leads the list with a score of 98.33 out of 100. Readers emphasized the country’s culinary variety and the vibe that stretches from street stalls to Michelin-starred tables. In Bangkok alone, seven restaurants made the roster of the world’s 35 best. It’s hard to argue with a scene that broad and consistently exciting.
Destinations popular with Russian travelers also ranked highly. Turkey, Vietnam, Sri Lanka, the Maldives, Japan, and Greece were noted for bold, memorable flavors. These places have long been seen not only as beach and city break staples, but also as spots to try truly authentic dishes.
The list spans 15 destinations, from Asia’s culinary hubs to European and South American standouts. Thailand tops the table, followed by Italy, with Japan in third. They are trailed by Vietnam, Spain, and New Zealand. In the middle sit Sri Lanka and Greece. Closer to the bottom are South Africa, Peru, the Maldives, and Colombia, alongside Morocco, France, and Turkey.
If you’re planning a trip soon, the lowest November prices are for Turkey, starting around 72,000 rubles. Thailand begins at 130,000 rubles. Vietnam and Sri Lanka are notably higher, from 166,000 and 180,000 rubles respectively. The Maldives remain a premium choice at 235,000 rubles and up. Among countries with nonstop service, Morocco is the priciest, with packages from 270,000 rubles.
For destinations reached with a connection, the options are also broad. Greece starts at about 170,000 rubles. Spain comes in around 220,000. Italy begins at 260,000 rubles, while Japan starts at 295,000. France stands out with minimum prices reaching 380,000 rubles.
Thai food is famous for tom yum, pad thai, and green curry. Italy is synonymous with pizza, pasta, risotto, and the indulgent sweetness of tiramisu. In Japan, travelers gravitate toward sushi, ramen, and tempura, while in Vietnam the musts are fragrant pho and a crunchy banh mi.
Spain serves up paella and tapas, while New Zealand is known for fish and chips and the airy Pavlova. In Sri Lanka, rice and curry and popular hoppers lead the way. Greek cuisine leans on moussaka, souvlaki, and the classic Greek salad.
South Africa stands out with bobotie and meat cooked over open flame, and Peru with its legendary ceviche. In the Maldives, tuna dishes are the go-to; in Colombia, look for bandeja paisa and arepa. Morocco draws travelers with tagine and couscous, France with onion soup, croissants, and crème brûlée. Turkey, as ever, is associated with kebab, baklava, and robust Turkish coffee.