The Best European Cheese Destinations to Visit in 2025
A recent survey by ferry and cruise operator DFDS found that over a third (35%) of Brits have brought cheese back from a holiday abroad, yet just 28% are aware of the current restrictions on importing European cheeses into the UK. Since April 2025, new rules have banned the personal import of all animal products, including cheese, from EU countries into the UK*. Travellers caught bringing these items in must either surrender them at the border or risk having them confiscated and destroyed. In more serious cases, individuals could face fines of up to £5,000 in England – making it even more worthwhile to enjoy Europe’s regional delicacies while you’re still abroad.
To help cheese enthusiasts make the most of their trips, DFDS has identified the top cheese regions in France and Belgium for a road trip to remember, as well as emerging cheese destinations across Europe. The trend analysis looked at 100 regions and cities across Europe, examining the change in Google searches between May 2024 and May 2025 compared to the previous two years to identify spikes in interest. The study analysed terms such as: “cheese tasting in [place], cheese tourism [place], [place] + [speciality cheese].”
Cheese and wine pairing expert and founder of Mouse and Grape, Jessica Summer also reveals unexpected pairings with European cheeses beyond the classic wine and grapes – from chocolate truffles to pork scratchings.
See the full research here: https://www.dfds.com/en-gb/passenger-ferries/blog/top-european-cheese-destinations
Emerging cheese destinations
| Country | Region / City | YoY search increase |
| Italy | Lombardy | 124% |
| Portugal | Alto Alentejo | 100% |
| France | Corsica | 50% |
| Spain | Basque Country | 50% |
| France | Burgundy | 49% |
| Greece | Crete | 49% |
| UK | North Yorkshire | 49% |
| Switzerland | Valais | 48% |
| Switzerland | Fribourg | 24% |
| Italy | Sicily | 23% |
1. Lombardy, Italy – 124% YoY Increase
Home to world-famous cheeses like Gorgonzola, Taleggio and Grana Padano, Lombardy has seen a staggering 124% rise in year-on-year searches. The northern Italian region is an ideal destination for those looking to explore Italy’s cheesemaking heritage – from bustling Milan to the foothills of the Alps.
2. Alto Alentejo, Portugal – 100% YoY Increase
Alto Alentejo in Portugal has experienced a 100% year-on-year surge in travel interest, thanks in part to its rustic countryside and celebrated cheeses like Queijo de Nisa. Often overlooked by the mainstream, this region offers an off-the-beaten-path experience for travellers keen to sample traditional Portuguese cheese made with raw sheep’s milk and time-honoured techniques.
3. Corsica, France – 50% YoY Increase
Corsica has seen a 50% jump in search interest, drawing cheese enthusiasts to its Mediterranean shores. Known for its artisanal sheep and goat cheeses such as Brocciu, the island pairs natural beauty with culinary charm. Corsican cheeses are often made in small batches by local shepherds – offering visitors an authentic and deeply regional tasting experience.
From Normandy to the Netherlands: five classic cheese regions perfect for a road trip
DFDS has spotlighted five must-visit road trip destinations for cheese lovers, offering regional specialities, wine pairings, and expert tasting tips.
1. Normandy, France
Region: Northern France
Famous for: Camembert, Pont-l’Évêque
Normandy is world-renowned for soft cheeses like Camembert and Pont-l’Évêque. Jessica Summer, founder of Mouse & Grape, recommends an indulgent pairing:
“One unexpected combination I adore is Camembert with dark chocolate truffles, especially those with a touch of sea salt or caramel. The bitterness of the chocolate contrasts with the creamy texture of the cheese, while both offer rich, lingering flavours that work together in a surprisingly indulgent way. Add a slice of strawberry or even a drizzle of sweet balsamic sauce for a delicious dessert.
For a cheese-lover’s road trip, follow Normandy’s Route des Fromages AOP, linking key cheesemaking towns and hosting annual festivals like the one in Pont-l’Évêque each May.
2. Loire Valley, France
Region: Central France
Famous for: Sainte-Maure de Touraine, Crottin de Chavignol, Selles-sur-Cher
This peaceful region southwest of Paris is a haven for goat’s cheese lovers, producing AOC-accredited cheeses like Sainte-Maure de Touraine, Crottin de Chavignol, and Selles-sur-Cher. Each offers a distinct flavour profile, from earthy to citrusy, and pairs perfectly with crisp Loire Valley Sauvignon Blancs from Sancerre or Cheverny.
3. Burgundy, France
Region: Eastern France
Famous for: Époisses, Délice de Bourgogne, Charolais
Known for its legendary wines, Burgundy also excels in cheese. Standouts include Époisses and the tangy goat’s cheese Charolais. These rich cheeses pair beautifully with regional Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Burgundy is the ultimate destination for those looking to combine artisanal cheeses with some of France’s finest vintages.
4. Flanders, Belgium
Region: Northern Belgium
Famous for: Fromage de Herve
Northern Belgium’s Flanders region is home to Herve, the country’s only PDO (Protected Designation of Origin) cheese. With its bright orange rind, creamy texture and strong aroma, Herve is a standout among washed-rind cheeses. Jessica says:
“Belgian cheese is often overlooked, but there are some incredible washed-rind cheeses like Herve. These funky, punchy cheeses pair brilliantly with Belgian beers, particularly fruity lambics or yeasty saisons. A pairing I love is Herve with crisp apple slices, pork scratchings, and a spoonful of apple or berry chutney, or a savoury mustard. The apple lifts the funk, the crunch adds contrast, and the salty pork brings it all together – like a ploughman’s lunch with a twist.”
Belgium’s rich beer culture makes this a dream destination for beer-and-cheese pairings, especially with Trappist ales like Chimay or Orval.
5. Gouda, Netherlands
Region: South Holland
Famous for: Gouda
No cheese trail would be complete without a visit to Gouda, in South Holland. This nutty, semi-hard cheese is one of the Netherlands’ most famous exports. Visitors can explore the charming town, enjoy local varieties, and attend the weekly Alkmaar cheese market from March to September.
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