Whether you prefer the rich and complex notes of dark chocolate, the smooth creaminess of milk, or even (controversially) the saccharine extravagance of white, indulge your sweet tooth at some of the world’s best chocolate-themed attractions:
1. Chocolate Museum in Villajoyosa, Spain
If you’re a self-confessed chocolate fiend with an insatiable craving for cacao, begin at the beginning with Valor, the world’s oldest gourmet chocolatier.
Heralded as the pride and joy of the Spanish town of Villajoyosa, Valor has been producing award-winning chocolates since 1888.
Don’t leave without paying homage at the Valor Chocolate Museum, or sampling the flurry of Valor vendors that are scattered about the town.
2. Calle Francisco Javier Mina in Oaxaca, Mexico
Popularly touted as Mexico’s “chocolate street,” Calle Francisco Javier Mina is not, unfortunately, made of chocolate. We know – devastating.
But the good news is this mile-long stretch is littered with cafés selling rich, aromatic hot chocolate, while curious bystanders peep through the windows of the famous, family-run Chocolate Mayordomo to watch the cocoa beans being ground.
3. Schokoladen Museum in Cologne, Germany
This sweet spot in Cologne is an impressive curatorial shrine dedicated entirely to the worship of chocolate. Highlights of the museum include the majestic rotating chocolate mould and a range of chocolate courses for adults and children.
You can also get stuck in with various chocolate tasting sessions, including chocolate and wine, chocolate and coffee, and even chocolate and beer.
4. Cadbury World in Bournville, UK
The town of Bournville near Birmingham. Yes, the entire TOWN! This one-time Quaker settlement is home to Cadbury, one of the biggest producers of mainstream chocolate in the world.
Visitors are invited for an exhibition tour to learn about the history of the brand, which combines social philanthropy with a commitment to high-quality chocolate. Take advantage of the various free samples on offer throughout the tour.
5. Brussels, Belgium
You didn’t think we were going to miss this one out, did you? Famously lauded as the chocolate capital of the world, Brussels is overstuffed with chocolate-themed attractions, from artisanal chocolatiers to the HQ of international chocolate royalty, Leonidas and Godiva.
There’s also a Musée du Cacao et du Chocolat, and melt-in-the-mouth pralines are their speciality – so don’t forget to pick up a bag, or several, before you leave.
Header image © Guido Vrola/iStock/Thinkstock
Written by insider city guide series Hg2 | A Hedonist’s guide to… whose guides cover all the best hotels, restaurants, bars, clubs, sights, shops and spas.
