The top 3 chocolate tours in Brussels
Don’t want to read the whole article? These are the best of the best chocolate tours and tastings in Brussels.
1. Hungry Mary’s Famous Beer and Chocolate Tour in Brussels
Rating: 5/5 | Tour length: 4-5 hours | Price: Check price
Highlights: Visit several chocolatiers and try a range of chocolates, explore Brussels’s bars and sample traditional beer, see the sights and walk through the city
What’s included: Tour guide, walking tour, a chocolate tasting tour of 12+ chocolates, beer tasting sessions of 6+ beers, cheese, meat and fries platter, shop discounts and water
Belgium is definitely loved for its chocolates and beers, and you’ll try both on this delicious tour. You’ll meet your guide in the city center, and visit several top chocolatiers trying at least 12 varieties of chocolate. You’ll walk to the Grand Place, where you’ll visit several pubs and enjoy at least 6 different Belgian brews, plus you’ll get to snack on cheese and cured meats. You’ll also get to see some famous sights like the Manneken Pis and the Royal Galleries, drink in an old puppet theatre and try famous Trappist beer.
“We had a great tour—-lots of amazing chocolate and great beer! Group size wasn’t too large and Martin and Matilda were entertaining and did a wonderful job explaining about the history of chocolate, beer and Brussels! Highly recommend!”
2. 2.5 hour Belgian Chocolate Workshop in Brussels
Rating: 4.5/5 | Tour length: 2 hours 30 minutes | Price: Check price
Highlights: Learn how to make authentic Belgian pralines and mendiants, enjoy Belgian hot chocolate, take home a box of 30+ chocolates
What’s included: All ingredients and equipment, 30+ chocolates per person, hot chocolate, box to take chocolates home
Learn how to make your own gourmet chocolate with this fun workshop in Brussels. You’ll be creating the two most popular types of chocolate in Belgium – pralines and mendiants with the help of a professional instructor. You’ll learn techniques you can recreate at home, and you’ll leave with a box of 30+ handcrafted chocolate treats to take home. You’ll also get the chance to try an amazing Belgian hot chocolate.
“It was a very fun experience! The teacher was great. She was straight to the point, funny and friendly. The chocolate we made came out very nicely so that was a plus.”
3. Brussels Chocolate Making Class and Tasting
Rating: 4.5/5 | Tour length: 1 hours 30 minutes | Price: Check price
Highlights: Learn how to make authentic Belgian chocolates at a chocolate factory, watch special techniques
What’s included: Chocolate workshop, welcome drink, chocolate tastings and box to take your chocolates home in
This hands on experience allows you to both taste delicious Belgian chocolates and learn how to make it. You’ll be avoiding the tourist traps, and get to visit and authentic chocolate factory in Brussels for a tutorial with an expert chocolatier. You’ll learn a lot about the history of Belgian chocolate, get to watch demonstrations and make a variety of chocolates to take home with you.
You’ll be welcomed with a cup of hot chocolate in the winter, or fresh lemonade in the summer. While you drink, you’ll listen to an intro about Belgian chocolate and then you’ll watch a chocolate tempering demonstration. After, you’ll have a go yourself and make your own mendiants, truffles and bars. Cacao comes from the factory’s plantations in the Philippines, Congo and Haiti.
“Highly recommend this class! It was the highlight of our day in Brussels! Great family experience. My daughter loved learning about chocolate, we all loved decorating our own chocolate bars, chocolate shapes, and truffles and we got to take so much chocolate home!”
4. Small-Group Chocolate Appreciation Tour
Rating: 4.5/5 | Tour length: 2 hours | Price: Check price
Highlights: Taste your way around Brussels’ chocolate shops with a guide, learn about chocolate, get a 10% discount on selected shops
What’s included: Tour guide, at least 7 praline/truffle samples
Taste your way around the chocolate capital of the world on this small group tour. You’ll visit 5 of the best chocolate shops in Brussels and learn about the history of delicious chocolate with your knowledgeable tour guide. You’ll be walking around Les Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert, the Grand Place, La Bourse de Bruxelles and St Catherines Church.
“Ana was an incredible tour guide! She was so knowledgeable and fun. It was great to hear a mix of history of chocolate and of the city. With such a small group, it was easy to have such a customizable experience.”
5. Chocolate Walking Tour and Workshop
Rating: 4.5/5 | Tour length: 3 hours 30 minutes | Price: Check price
Highlights: Walk through Brussels city center, learn about the history of chocolate, free tastings in chocolate boutiques, chocolate demonstration with samples, hands on chocolate workshop
What’s included: Guided walking tour, 10 chocolate tastings, 1 hour chocolate workshop, experienced guide, Belgian pastry selection
This all in one tour gives you the best of everything – chocolate shop tastings in the city, a quality chocolate making demonstration and a chance to make your own pralines. You’ll learn about the history of Brussels on a walking tour led by a guide, going past the Royal Palace and art nouveau architecture of Brussels. You’ll be stopping in some of the best chocolate shops in the city for tastings, before attending a chocolate making workshop where you’ll make pralines.
“Great way to learn more about Brussels, the history of chocolate making & get some tasty samples along the way. Plus making our own to take away, was fun & creative.”
6. Choco-Story Brussels: Chocolate Museum Entrance with Tasting
Rating: 4.5/5 | Price: Check price
Highlights: Learn the history of cocoa at the Choco-Story Brussels museum, watch a demonstration on how to make pralines, taste different types of chocolate
What’s included: Museum entrance fee, chocolate tastings, chocolatier demonstration, audioguide in different languages
The Choco-Story Brussels will take you through the journey of chocolate, teaching you the origins and history. Exhibits are self-guided and include illustrations, informative panels and videos that explain the culture of cocoa, and then you’ll get to watch a demonstration by a master chocolatier. You’ll get several tastings throughout your visit.
“Very informative and fairly interactive. Lots to learn about the history of chocolate and how it became the chocolate we know today. Free chocolate samples and a very entertaining live chocolate making process – praline, with a free taster at the end.”
7. 2.5-Hour Chocolate Museum Visit with Workshop
Rating: 4.5/5 | Price: Check price
Highlights: Discover the work of a chocolatier, learn about the history of chocolate, enjoy a chocolate tasting and create your own personalised chocolates
What’s included: Museum entrance fee, chocolate tastings, chocolatier demonstration, chocolate making workshop, audioguide in different languages
This tour includes everything in the one above, along with a session to make your own chocolates. You’ll get to create mendiants, personalised chocolate bars and lollies to take home with you.
“Chocolate museum was really interesting, there was a lot of information, some interactive games and at the end a tasting and a small demonstration. We also enjoyed the workshop. We were able to make a chocolate bar, 4 bars and several lollipops and decorate them with toppings of our own choosing.”
Tips for choosing the best chocolate tour in Brussels
- Check the tour length and location to make sure it fits in with your itinerary
- Check what the tour includes – does it include transport, a meal, a workshop
- If there’s a particular chocolatier you want to visit, check that it’s included!
- Read reviews online and see what others though
How to get the most of of your chocolate tasting in Brussels
- Before eating the chocolate, appreciate how it looks. Examine the texture and guess what flavours you expect
- Cut the chocolate in half, smell it and prepare your taste buds
- Take a small first bite to warm up your taste
- Take your time to eat, allow the chocolate to melt in your mouth and enjoy the aftertaste
- Cleanse your palate with water and get ready for the next chocolate!
Why is Belgium chocolate so famous?
Basically, because it’s delicious! They’ve had access to cocoa beans for a lot longer than their European neighbors and the rest of the world due to the country’s wealth. They’ve has a lot of time to perfect their chocolate making.
The beans they use are the best quality, and they’re ground very fine compared to other countries. This results in a super chocolatey flavour.
Chocolate first appeared in Belgium in the 1600s, and became very popular with the middle and upper classes. King Leopold II began a mission to harvest cocoa beans from Congo in the late 1800s, and this is where the country’s obsession really took off.
Other countries started to make their own chocolate but used lower quality beans combined with more sugar – resulting in a less refined taste.
Belgium is now the chocolate capital of the world and has more chocolate factories than any other country.
Why should you do a chocolate tour in Brussels?
A chocolate tour or workshop is a great way to spend a few hours if you’re a chocolate lover. It’s a core part of the country’s culture, so it would be a shame to miss out! With so many types of activities available, you can find something that works with your itinerary. If you’re interested in the history of chocolate, we’d really recommend booking a guided tour.
The best chocolate tours in Brussels FAQs
Are chocolate tours worth it?
Chocolate tours can be a truly indulgent and satisfying experience for any chocolate lover. They offer a unique opportunity to learn about the chocolate-making process, from cacao bean to the finished product, and to sample a variety of delicious, high-quality chocolates along the way. Whether it’s a tour of a local chocolate factory or a guided tasting at a popular chocolatier, the chance to immerse oneself in the world of chocolate is often worth the time and money. Many tours also provide insight into the history and cultural significance of chocolate, making it not only a fun outing but also an educational one. Additionally, chocolate tours can be a great way to support small businesses and artisanal producers, as they often showcase locally made and handcrafted chocolates.
What is one of Belgium’s most popular attractions for chocolate lovers?
One of Belgium’s most popular attractions for chocolate lovers is the Chocolate Line, located in the historic city of Bruges. This luxurious chocolate shop is owned and operated by award-winning chocolatier Dominique Persoone, known for his innovative and creative approach to chocolate making. The Chocolate Line offers a unique and diverse range of chocolates, with flavors and combinations that push the boundaries of traditional chocolate confections. Visitors can witness the chocolate making process firsthand at the shop’s open kitchen, and indulge in a variety of delectable chocolate treats. The shop also provides informative chocolate tasting sessions, allowing visitors to fully appreciate the artistry and craftsmanship that goes into creating each chocolate masterpiece.
What is the most famous chocolate store in Belgium?
The most famous chocolate shop in Belgium is undoubtedly Neuhaus. Founded in 1857, Neuhaus holds the prestigious title of inventing the praline, a chocolate shell with a soft filling that has become a staple in the world of chocolate. The brand has a long-standing reputation for using high-quality ingredients and exquisite craftsmanship in their chocolates, making them a favorite among locals and tourists alike. With a wide range of flavors and styles, from traditional milk chocolate to innovative combinations, Neuhaus has something to satisfy every chocolate lover’s cravings. The company has expanded globally, but their flagship store in Brussels continues to be a popular destination for chocolate enthusiasts seeking the ultimate Belgian chocolate experience.
Can you visit a chocolate factory in Brussels?
Yes, you can visit a chocolate factory in Brussels. Brussels is famous for its chocolate and has several chocolate factories that offer guided tours. One of the most well-known is the “Choco-Story” museum and chocolate factory, where visitors can learn about the history of chocolate and see how it is made. The guided tours usually include demonstrations of the chocolate-making process, opportunities to taste different chocolates, and the chance to purchase some hand-crafted Belgian chocolates to take home. Another popular option is the Neuhaus Chocolate Museum and factory, which also offers tours and tastings. Visiting a chocolate factory in Brussels can be a fun and delicious experience for chocolate lovers and anyone interested in learning more about this sweet treat. It’s a great way to immerse yourself in the world of Belgian chocolate and indulge in some of the best chocolate in the world.
What are must visits on a chocolate tour in Brussels?
A must visit on a chocolate tour in Brussels is the famous Grand Place, where visitors can find a variety of exquisite chocolate shops. From traditional Belgian pralines to innovative and artistic creations, the Grand Place is a chocolate lover’s paradise. Another essential stop on the tour is the Museum of Cocoa and Chocolate, where visitors can learn about the history and production of this beloved treat. The museum also offers demonstrations and tastings, providing an immersive and educational experience for chocolate enthusiasts. Additionally, a visit to the boutique chocolatiers such as Pierre Marcolini and Wittamer is highly recommended, as these renowned chocolate makers offer a unique and luxurious selection of chocolates and confections. Exploring the charming streets of the Sablon district, known for its high-end chocolate shops and patisseries, is another highlight of a chocolate tour in Brussels. With its rich chocolate-making tradition, a tour of Brussels offers a delightful and indulgent experience for anyone with a sweet tooth.
What is the famous chocolate street in Brussels?
The famous chocolate street in Brussels is known as Rue du Marché aux Herbes. This charming street is lined with artisanal chocolate shops and has earned the reputation of being the go-to destination for chocolate lovers. Visitors can stroll along the cobblestone streets and admire the displays of exquisite chocolate creations in the shop windows. The scent of cocoa and the sight of colorful pralines immediately captivate the senses, making it hard to resist indulging in a sweet treat. Many of the chocolatiers in this area have been perfecting their craft for generations, ensuring that each piece of chocolate is a work of art. Some of the shops also offer guided tours and chocolate-making workshops, allowing visitors to learn about the intricate process of chocolate production.
Does Brussels have a chocolate museum?
Yes, Brussels does have a chocolate museum. The museum, called Choco-Story Brussels, is located in the heart of the city and offers visitors the opportunity to learn about the history of chocolate, as well as the process of making it. The museum showcases a collection of antique chocolate-making tools and machinery, as well as informative displays on the different types of chocolate and the various ways it can be enjoyed. Visitors can also participate in chocolate-making workshops and tastings, where they can sample a variety of Belgian chocolates. The museum provides an interactive and educational experience for chocolate enthusiasts and anyone interested in learning more about this popular treat. Additionally, it serves as a fitting tribute to Belgium’s renowned chocolate industry, which has a long and rich tradition dating back to the 19th century.
Who Is The Most Famous Chocolatier In Brussels?
The most famous chocolatier in Brussels is Pierre Marcolini. He is renowned for his exquisite chocolate creations and has received numerous awards for his work. Marcolini is known for using only the finest quality ingredients and for his innovative flavor combinations, which have earned him a loyal following of chocolate connoisseurs from around the world. His passion for chocolate began at a young age, and he trained with some of the best chocolatiers in Belgium before opening his own shop in Brussels. Marcolini’s chocolates are known for their perfect balance of flavors and textures, and his attention to detail and craftsmanship is evident in each piece. His dedication to his craft has solidified his reputation as the most famous and talented chocolatier in Brussels, making his chocolates a must-try for anyone visiting the city.
What Is The Famous Chocolate Brand In Brussels?
The famous chocolate brand in Brussels is none other than Neuhaus. Founded in 1857, Neuhaus is credited with inventing the first filled chocolate, known as the praline, in 1912. This innovative creation revolutionized the world of chocolate and solidified Neuhaus as a leading player in the industry. The brand has since expanded to have numerous boutique stores located around the world, but it still holds a special place in the hearts of chocolate enthusiasts in Belgium, particularly in Brussels. Neuhaus continues to produce high-quality chocolates using traditional craftsmanship, ensuring that each piece is a delectable treat for the senses. From classic pralines to modern interpretations, Neuhaus offers a wide range of flavors and textures to satisfy any chocolate lover’s cravings. When visiting Brussels, trying Neuhaus chocolates is a must-do for anyone wanting to experience the city’s rich chocolate heritage.
