Chocolate Tastings in Brussels

Indulging in the rich and velvety world of chocolate is an experience that few can resist, and there's no better place to embark on a chocolate journey than Brussels. Renowned for its exquisite chocolate craftsmanship and storied chocolate-making traditions, the Belgian capital serves up a delectable array of chocolate tasting tours that are a must for any chocolate lover.

Chocolate tasting tours in Brussels take you on a behind-the-scenes journey of the city's culinary history — as you traverse the charming streets of the historic town center, you'll visit numerous specialty chocolatiers, tasting everything from traditional pralines to artisanal creations along the way.

But it's not just about the chocolates themselves. These tours also provide an opportunity to delve into the history and culture of chocolate in Brussels, leaning how this sweet treat has helped shape the local culture.

Here's all you need to know about chocolate tastings, one of the most captivating gastronomic experiences in Brussels.

What are the best chocolate tastings in Brussels?

Brussels chocolate walking tour and workshop

The Brussels Chocolate Walking Tour and Workshop is a delightful experience for chocolate lovers visiting Brussels. Led by a knowledgeable guide, the tour takes you through the city's historic landmarks and art nouveau architecture while stopping at exclusive chocolate boutiques for tastings.

The highlight is the chocolate-making workshop, where you can learn the secrets of Belgian pralines and create your own chocolate creations. With its combination of cultural exploration and indulgent chocolate experiences, this tour offers a memorable and tasty adventure in Brussels.

Private chocolate tour with local expert

A personalized and private tour for chocolate lovers, this option is popular for people short on time or who want to ditch the tourist crowds and have their own independent chocolate adventure.

The private tour covers iconic landmarks such as the Grand Place, Manneken Pis, the Sablon area and the Royal Galeries, all while exploring the city's chocolate shops. Here, you can sample some of the best Belgian pralines, truffles and other treats as well as learn about their production process.

These tours can be customized to your preferences, and at the end, you'll be conveniently dropped off at your hotel or another location of your choice in Brussels.

Chocolate Museum entrance

Less of a tour, more of an attraction, the Chocolate Museum is a must-visit for lovers of the sweet stuff. It houses a fascinating collection of artifacts related to chocolate production and consumption, as well as interactive displays that are great fun for adults and children alike.

You can watch chocolatiers at work, sample a variety of different flavors, and learn all about the history of chocolate, dating back to the Mayas and Aztecs.

Are there any combos available with chocolate tasting tours in Brussels?

Hungry Mary’s famous beer and chocolate tour

Hungry Mary's Famous Beer and Chocolate Tour in Brussels is a longstanding, highly recommended tour that offers a delightful combination of beer and chocolate indulgence.

This roughly 4-hour tour takes you on a walking adventure through the city center. You'll visit specialty chocolatiers, savoring a minimum of 12 different chocolates, and then continue to various bars and pubs for a Brussels beer tasting. There, you'll enjoy at least six traditional Belgian beers, often accompanied by cheese and cured meats.

Led by knowledgeable guides, this tour isn't just tasty, it's also educational — expect to learn about Brussels' history, culinary culture and the arts of chocolate and beer making.

Chocolate workshop and guided walking tour

A highly hands-on experience, the chocolate workshop and guided walking tour of Brussels option is a delightful combination for first-time visitors to the city.

The tour offers a combination of a guided walking tour through the city's iconic sights (passing by the Grand Place, Manneken Pis and other famous landmarks) followed by an interactive 1-hour creative chocolate workshop, where you can learn how to make your own Belgian pralines.

Which places are visited?

Chocolatiers and chocolate shops

Brussels is renowned for its world-class chocolatiers and chocolate shops, which often have a long-standing history of producing exquisite treats. Here, at places like Pierre Marcolini, Passion Chocolat or Wittamer, you can witness the craftsmanship involved in creating these delectable treats and sample plenty of different flavors.

Chocolate workshops

Some chocolate tours in Brussels provide participants with the chance to engage in hands-on chocolate workshops. Following along a master chocolatier, you can try your hand at crafting your own chocolates, learning all about into the techniques and skills involved.

The Brussels Museum of Cocoa and Chocolate

Also known as Choco-Story, this museum dives deep into the history and culture of chocolate in Belgium. Shorter tours usually will not have time to visit this museum, but longer ones often make a stop here.

Historical landmarks

In between indulging in chocolaty delights, many tours also pass by some of the city's iconic landmarks. The Brussels sightseeing portion of your culinary excursion may include a visit to the Grand Place, a UNESCO World Heritage Site at the heart of the Belgian capital, as well as the Royal Galleries and Manneken Pis.

Charming cafés and pâtisseries

To complete the chocolate tour experience, participants often have the chance to visit charming cafés and pâtisseries that specialize in chocolate-based desserts and treats. Here, you can savor mouthwatering creations like chocolate pastries, éclairs, and hot chocolate. These cozy establishments offer a relaxing setting to enjoy the flavors of Belgian chocolate while soaking in the city's atmosphere.

How much do chocolate tastings in Brussels cost?

Prices for chocolate tastings in Brussels generally start at around €40 for shorter small-group tours (about 2 hours), while tickets to the Chocolate Museum cost less than €15.

Longer tours, such as the chocolate workshop and guided walking tour option, range from €50 and €80, while combination chocolate and beer tasting tours usually cost around €90.

Private tours are more expensive and are generally priced per group. The cost can range from €80 to over €300 per person, depending on the size of your group and tour length.

What is included?

A chocolate tasting tour in Brussels typically includes a range of indulgent experiences — you can always expect to sample a variety of chocolates from renowned chocolatiers and chocolate shops.

Depending on your chosen package, these tours may also include visits to chocolate workshops and the chocolate museum, and extra culinary tastings (such as beer, waffles and whisky).

A friendly, knowledgeable guide will also accompany you throughout the tour, providing historical context and sharing their own insider secrets.

Where does it start?

A chocolate tasting tour in Brussels typically starts in the city center at a major landmark like the Grand Place or the Grand'Place. The exact starting point may vary depending on the tour operator, but it is often a central location that is easily accessible for participants.

On private tours, hotel pickup is sometimes included – double check with the tour operator for more details.

How long does it last?

A chocolate tasting tour in Brussels typically lasts anywhere from 2 to 4 hours, while combination tours can last be as long as 5.5 hours. The exact duration may vary depending on the specific tour and its itinerary.

Is it wheelchair friendly?

Yes, chocolate tasting tours in Brussels often strive to be wheelchair-friendly and accessible. However, it is recommended to check with the specific tour provider to ensure they can accommodate individuals with mobility challenges.

When is the best time for a chocolate tasting tour in Brussels?

The best time to go on a chocolate tasting tour in Brussels is during the cooler months from October to April, avoiding the summer heat that can affect the quality of the chocolates. Tours are often available throughout the day, but afternoon sessions, starting around 2:00 pm, can be a sweet finish to a day of sightseeing.

Travel tips

• There are several tour options, each with its own focus, such as the history of chocolate, types of chocolate, or specific brands. Choose one based on your interests.
• Make sure you show up with an empty stomach! Belgian chocolates are rich and filling, you'll want to have plenty of room to savor each piece.
• Bring a bottle of water to cleanse your palate between different chocolates, so you can fully appreciate the taste of everything you try.
• You'll likely be walking between different shops in Brussels, so wear comfortable footwear.
• Ask your guide for beverage pairings, often coffee or certain wines can enhance the chocolate's flavors.