The Ultimate Global Bucket List For Cheese Lovers: 20 Must-Try Spots

If cheese is your love language, welcome to your dream itinerary. This isn’t just about sampling a wedge here and there—it’s about going straight to the source, where traditions are alive, rinds are respected, and every bite tells a story.

From cool caves aging legendary wheels to bustling markets stacked with fresh curds, the world is full of places where cheese isn’t just food—it’s a way of life.

Whether you’re all about gooey melts, sharp crumbles, or creamy perfection, these destinations serve up the kind of dairy devotion that makes your passport (and your taste buds) very happy.

1. Parmigiano Reggiano Tasting – Parma, Italy

Imagine stepping into a world where the air is thick with the nutty aroma of aging cheese. In this charming Italian locale, you’ll discover the secrets behind the production of one of the world’s most renowned hard cheeses.

Guided tours take you through the intricate process of crafting Parmigiano Reggiano, offering a sneak peek into the art of cheese aging. Enjoy the delightful experience of tasting the cheese’s rich, savory flavors, which have matured to perfection over several years.

2. Gruyère Cheese Caves – Gruyères, Switzerland

Venture beneath the surface into the mysterious world of cheese aging. These underground cellars hold countless wheels of Gruyère cheese, resting patiently as they develop their signature nutty, sweet flavor. Here, time and tradition converge to create a truly extraordinary taste experience.

Visitors can witness the meticulous care involved in tending to these cheese wheels, each one a masterpiece of Swiss craftsmanship. Revel in the unique opportunity to sample Gruyère in its birthplace, a taste of Switzerland you won’t soon forget.

3. Camembert Village – Normandy, France

In the heart of this idyllic countryside, a creamy delight awaits discovery. This village is a celebration of Camembert, the soft-ripened cheese that has captured hearts worldwide. Travelers can enjoy farm visits, where the traditions of cheese-making are lovingly preserved.

Sample the iconic cheese in its most authentic form, savoring the rich, buttery flavors that define its character. It’s a pastoral escape where cheese lovers can immerse themselves in both the beauty of the land and the delight of its produce.

4. Oaxaca Cheese Markets – Oaxaca, Mexico

Amid the vibrant chaos of this local market, a cheese lover’s paradise awaits. Known for its stringy, savory queso Oaxaca, this destination offers a taste adventure unlike any other. Stroll through the stalls where artisanal cheesemakers proudly display their creations, each one a testament to Mexican culinary traditions.

The cheese is a staple in local street food, adding a savory richness that complements its dishes perfectly. Join the locals and indulge in the lively spirit and delightful flavors of this cheese haven.

5. Roquefort Caves – Roquefort-Sur-Soulzon, France

Deep in the heart of natural limestone caves, a blue cheese legend is born. Here, Roquefort cheese ages gracefully, each wheel infused with the distinctiveness of live mold cultures. Guests can explore the cool, dark caverns where these cheese wheels develop their bold, tangy flavors.

It’s a sensory experience that offers a glimpse into the age-old techniques still used today. Tasting Roquefort here means enjoying it at its very best, a bold testament to the rich cheese-making heritage of the region.

6. Brie Region – Île-De-France, France

In a quiet corner of France, you’ll find a region where cheese is more than just food—it’s heritage. This is where soft, bloomy-rind wheels are aged with care, developing that signature creamy interior and delicate white crust cheese lovers can’t resist.

At local farms and markets, visitors can watch traditional methods in action, sample freshly cut wedges, and learn what makes this particular cheese so legendary. Pair it with a fresh baguette and a glass of wine, and you’ll understand why it’s been beloved for centuries.

7. Traditional Halloumi Farms – Cyprus

On this sun-kissed island, a cheese with a salty twist awaits. Halloumi, known for its grill-friendly texture, is produced using time-honored methods that highlight local traditions. Tourists can tour these small-scale farms, observing the cheese-making process from start to finish.

The result is a delightfully squeaky cheese, perfect for grilling and a staple in Mediterranean cuisine. Experience the hospitality of the region and savor the unique flavors, all while enjoying the beautiful rural landscape that surrounds you.

8. Gouda Cheese Market – Gouda, Netherlands

Step into the lively world of a historic cheese market, where cheese wheels are not just traded but celebrated. In the Netherlands, Gouda cheese takes center stage, its rich, creamy flavor beloved worldwide.

Travelers can wander through the colorful array of stalls, sampling various ages and flavors of this Dutch specialty. The market is a sensory delight, with the cheerful sounds of bargaining and laughter echoing in the air. It’s a festive atmosphere that invites cheese lovers to be part of a long-standing tradition.

9. Emmental Show Dairy – Emmental, Switzerland

Witness the magic of cheese-making in one of the most iconic dairy regions of the world. Here, massive wheels of Emmental cheese are crafted with precision and care.

Visitors are invited to observe the process, from the curdling of milk to the creation of those famous holes. Sampling fresh slices of Emmental straight from the source offers an unparalleled taste experience. This journey through Swiss cheese-making tradition promises both education and delight for the palate.

10. Stilton Country – Leicestershire, England

Venture into a region where blue cheese reigns supreme. Known for its crumbly texture and robust flavor, Stilton is celebrated with pride here. Tourists can enjoy tastings and tours that unveil the secrets behind this beloved cheese.

The creameries offer a fascinating insight into the meticulous craft that ensures Stilton’s rich taste. Whether you’re a blue cheese aficionado or a curious newcomer, this destination promises a flavorful exploration of cheese heritage.

11. Feta Cheese Tours – Thessaly, Greece

Delve into the world of brined white cheese, a staple of Greek cuisine. Made from sheep and goat milk, feta offers a unique, tangy flavor profile. Tours take visitors through the picturesque farms where this cheese is produced, revealing the traditions behind its creation.

Paired with olives and fresh bread, feta becomes more than just a cheese—it’s a taste of Greece itself. Enjoy the harmony of flavors and the warmth of Greek hospitality in this unforgettable cheese adventure.

12. Raclette Dining – Valais, Switzerland

In the heart of a cozy dining tradition, melted cheese becomes the star of the meal. Raclette, a Swiss delight, is served warm and gooey, scraped onto potatoes and meats.

The communal dining experience is both comforting and convivial, inviting guests to savor each bite in good company. As the cheese cascades over the food, it transforms the ordinary into the extraordinary. This is a must-try for anyone seeking the ultimate in cheesy comfort food.

13. American Artisan Cheese Trail – Wisconsin, USA

Explore a landscape dotted with small, dedicated cheese producers. This self-guided trail invites cheese lovers to discover American artisans who craft award-winning varieties. Each stop offers a glimpse into the passion and creativity that defines American cheese-making.

Sample handcrafted cheeses that range from mild to sharp, each one a testament to the country’s rich dairy heritage. It’s a journey that combines scenic beauty with delicious discovery, making it a perfect adventure for cheese aficionados.

14. Manchego Tastings – La Mancha, Spain

In this sunny region, sheep’s milk is transformed into a cheese of distinction. Manchego, with its nutty, buttery flavor, is a delight to the senses.

Visitors can partake in tastings that pair this iconic cheese with local wines, enhancing its rich flavors. The experience offers a taste of Spain’s culinary tradition, where cheese is cherished as both an art form and a staple. It’s a flavorful escape into the world of Manchego, capturing the essence of Spanish craftsmanship.

15. Taleggio Region – Lombardy, Italy

Journey to a land where cheese-making is elevated to an art form. Known for its washed-rind, soft cheeses, this region offers a bold flavor and creamy texture. Guests can explore the rich traditions that produce Taleggio, a cheese that stands out for its distinct taste.

The process of aging and washing the cheese creates a unique sensory experience, blending flavors that are both robust and refined. It’s an exploration into Italian cheese heritage that promises delicious discoveries at every turn.

16. Blue Cheese Tasting – Danablu, Denmark

Immerse yourself in a world of pungent, veined blue cheese varieties. This dairy specializes in Danablu, offering tours and tastings that highlight its distinctive character. Travelers can learn about the fascinating mold cultures that give the cheese its unique flavor profile.

Tasting the cheese here means experiencing it at its freshest and most flavorful, a true delight for blue cheese enthusiasts. The experience is as educational as it is enjoyable, unveiling the secrets of Danish cheese-making excellence.

17. Cheese Rolling Festival – Gloucestershire, England

Amidst cheerful chaos and laughter, a wheel of cheese becomes the center of an annual tradition. Participants race down a steep hill, chasing after the elusive cheese in a display of fun and folly.

The festival is a quirky celebration of both cheese and community spirit, drawing crowds eager to witness the spectacle. It’s an event where tradition meets hilarity, offering a memorable experience for both participants and spectators. Join in the revelry and enjoy the unique charm of this cheese-filled festival.

18. Quebec Fromageries – Quebec, Canada

In this vibrant region, cheese-making thrives with a blend of tradition and innovation. Fromageries here are known for their creamy creations, inspired by French techniques. Visitors can explore a variety of cheeses, each offering a taste of Quebec’s culinary expertise.

The experience is enriched by the warm hospitality of the cheesemakers, eager to share their passion for their craft. It’s a journey into a cheese scene that is both rich and diverse, promising delightful discoveries at every corner.

19. Australian Cheese Festival – Adelaide, Australia

Join the festivities where cheese takes center stage. This lively event brings together cheesemakers from across the country, offering tastings, pairings, and demos. The festival atmosphere is electric, with attendees eager to indulge in the diverse flavors of Australian cheese.

It’s a celebration of both the craft and the community, inviting everyone to savor the richness of local cheese-making talent. Enjoy the vibrant energy and the delicious offerings that make this festival a must-visit for cheese lovers.

20. Cowgirl Creamery Visit – California, USA

In a charming creamery, the art of cheese-making is celebrated with passion and precision. Known for its artisanal creations, this destination offers an intimate look at the cheese-making process.

Visitors can enjoy behind-the-scenes tours, witnessing firsthand the dedication that goes into each wheel of cheese. The experience is both enlightening and delicious, providing a greater appreciation for the craft. It’s a journey into the heart of artisanal cheese, where quality and creativity come together.