Culinary Arts & Cooking Internships Abroad

Cultural immersion. Explore a culture’s traditions, flavors, and food philosophies to deepen appreciation for local cuisine and its role in daily life.
Hands-on skill building. Work directly with chefs and local cooks to master new culinary techniques, from knife skills to plating artistry, and expand your recipe repertoire.
Global networking. Build relationships with chefs, mentors, and fellow food enthusiasts who can help inspire and shape your future career.
Creative growth. Experiment with new ingredients, cooking styles, and cultural influences that spark creativity and push you beyond your comfort zone.

Things to know

Before you trade your apron for a passport, here are some tips to help you prepare for the journey ahead:

Program options. Culinary placements vary from five-star restaurants to farms. Research to find one that matches your goals and passion.
Cost of living and accommodation. Living costs vary by country; research accommodation options to manage expenses and expectations.
Cultural etiquette. Learn greetings, dining customs, and a few words in the local language. It shows respect and helps you connect with locals and coworkers.
Work expectations. Kitchens abroad can be fast-paced and demanding. Be prepared to learn quickly, stay flexible, and embrace every challenge as part of your growth.

Popular Providers

Frequently Asked Questions

Top destinations for culinary arts internships abroad include France, Thailand, Mexico, Italy, and South Korea. Culinary arts and cooking internships are widely available in countries with strong culinary traditions and booming tourism and hospitality sectors.

To apply for an international culinary internship, research programs that suit your interests. Prepare a resume and cover letter highlighting your skills and experience. Gather necessary documents like transcripts and recommendation letters. Consider platforms like social media, culinary schools, hospitality programs, and internship agencies. Networking with chefs, attending expos, and joining culinary associations can also help you find internships abroad.

A culinary intern assists with food prep, cooking, and plating, learns kitchen operations, maintains cleanliness, and follows food safety standards. They work under chefs to gain hands-on culinary experience and improve their skills.

Yes, some culinary internships abroad are paid. These positions offer stipends or salaries to cover living expenses and may include additional benefits like meals or accommodation. However, the pay for culinary internships abroad varies by country, program, and establishment. Research each opportunity carefully to understand the compensation and overall value.

From a cooking internship abroad, you can gain skills in international cuisine, kitchen operations, food preparation, plating, and cultural culinary techniques, while enhancing your adaptability and teamwork in a professional setting.

Latest Program Reviews

Amazing summer immersion experience!

December 03, 2025by: Emily Barry - United StatesProgram: Customized Internships & Spanish Immersion at the Beach

10

I spent ten weeks in A Coruña in summer of 2019. It was an amazing experience and I felt like I really was able to learn the language and the culture. Highly recommend to anyone looking for something authentic and immersive.

Barcelona Internship

December 03, 2025by: Samantha Seydor - United StatesProgram: Barcelona Internships with Beyond Academy

9

My internship in Barcelona was an amazing experience that went far beyond just professional growth. The company I was paired with was genuinely interesting and educational, and Beyond makes sure that you are supported and have a sense of community throughout your stay. However, what truly made the experience stand out were the people. From our community coordinator to my fellow peers, I met some of the most interesting people and was lucky enough to form friendships. By the end of the internship, I left not only more confident and capable, but with an established community in the city. I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity and it would recommend it to anyone interested.

Amazing summer immersion experience!

December 03, 2025by: Emily Barry - United StatesProgram: Customized Internships & Spanish Immersion at the Beach

10

I spent ten weeks in A Coruña in summer of 2019. It was an amazing experience and I felt like I really was able to learn the language and the culture. Highly recommend to anyone looking for something authentic and immersive.

Barcelona Internship

December 03, 2025by: Samantha Seydor - United StatesProgram: Barcelona Internships with Beyond Academy

9

My internship in Barcelona was an amazing experience that went far beyond just professional growth. The company I was paired with was genuinely interesting and educational, and Beyond makes sure that you are supported and have a sense of community throughout your stay. However, what truly made the experience stand out were the people. From our community coordinator to my fellow peers, I met some of the most interesting people and was lucky enough to form friendships. By the end of the internship, I left not only more confident and capable, but with an established community in the city. I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity and it would recommend it to anyone interested.