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Chocolate shop in Barcelona, Spain © Erik De Graaf | Dreamstime.com
With Valentine’s Day approaching, our thoughts turn to chocolate. Whether you prefer dark or milk (sorry, white chocolate lovers), these destinations are must-visits for anyone who adores chocolate. From South America, where cacao originated, to European cities lined with artisanal chocolatiers, discover the best places to taste and celebrate chocolate around the world. -
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Brussels is often called the “Chocolate Capital of the World.” It’s home to major names like Godiva and Leonidas, and countless boutique chocolatiers such as Mary, which opened near the royal palace in 1919. The city also hosts the Musée du Cacao et du Chocolat, a small museum with exhibits and live demonstrations by master chocolatiers—perfect for learning about chocolate history and production. -
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Paris is synonymous with fine chocolate. As a global gourmet center, the city boasts more than 300 chocolate shops offering everything from single-origin bars to delicate ganaches. Dark chocolate is especially celebrated and appears in confections, pastries, and crepes across Parisian boulangeries. The city also hosts major chocolate events, including competitions that showcase the work of top chocolatiers. -
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Tuscany is best known for wine, but chocolate lovers should not overlook it. The region includes what locals call the Chocolate Valley—a scenic area dotted with artisan shops and small chocolate makers. Craft fairs and handmade chocolate events take place here, celebrating traditional methods and creative confections. It’s an ideal spot to combine food tourism with countryside charm. -
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Hershey, Pennsylvania, is a chocolate-centered destination in the United States. Once called Derry Church, the town was renamed Hershey in 1906 and is now known as “The Sweetest Place on Earth.” Visitors can explore Hershey’s Chocolate World, tour the museum, taste a variety of chocolate products, and enjoy family-friendly attractions at Hersheypark. -
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Switzerland consumes more chocolate per capita than any other country, and Zurich is a dream for milk chocolate enthusiasts. The city hosts famous brands and historic shops—Lindt, Teuscher and Sprüngli among them. Strolling Bahnhofstrasse, you’ll find elegant chocolatiers offering handmade specialties and an array of signature confections to taste. -
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Spain was among the first European countries to embrace chocolate, thanks to its early colonial ties with South America. Barcelona and Villajoyosa became important import centers for cocoa from Venezuela and Ecuador in the 18th century. Villajoyosa is home to Valor, Spain’s oldest chocolate factory, founded in 1881—an essential stop for those interested in Spanish chocolate tradition. -
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South America is the birthplace of cacao and remains a source of exceptional chocolate. Countries like Ecuador produce some of the finest beans and finished bars today. Award-winning brands such as Pacari highlight the region’s commitment to high-quality, organic chocolate made from native cacao varieties.
