There are many wonderful international days celebrated around the globe, but World Chocolate Day, which falls on July 7, is one of the sweetest—especially for dessert lovers.
Chocolate is like a dream come true in many destinations around the world, where it blends the magic of nature with culinary artistry, offering unforgettable experiences for chocolate enthusiasts.
A Brief History of Chocolate
Chocolate is beloved by millions.
Chocolate originated in Central America (modern-day Mexico) over 4,000 years ago with the ancient Olmec civilization. The Olmecs were the first to cultivate cacao and turn it into chocolate. They used it in spiritual rituals and as a drink.
Chocolate reached Europe in the 16th century and gained immense popularity from the 17th century onward. Today, chocolate is a beloved treat enjoyed by millions worldwide—whether it's milk, dark, or white chocolate.
Would you like to enjoy a few small squares of a chocolate bar, a spoonful of chocolate spread, chocolate sprinkled over your favorite ice cream, tucked into delicious pastries, or sipped hot and melted in a cozy mug?
Top Chocolate-Lover Travel Destinations
If you're a chocolate lover seeking a unique travel experience that combines nature’s beauty with sweet delights, get ready to explore some of the world's most chocolate-centric destinations—from lush cacao farms to luxurious chocolate museums and vibrant festivals.
Switzerland
Switzerland is the most iconic chocolate destination in the world.
It’s where Daniel Peter invented solid milk chocolate in 1875. Today, Switzerland is known for its high-quality milk chocolate, thanks to the use of rich Alpine milk.
Don’t miss chocolate-themed experiences in Switzerland:
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Visit Lindt Home of Chocolate in Kilchberg near Lake Zurich.
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Tour the Maestrani Chocolate Museum in Flawil.
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Ride the Chocolate Train from Montreux to the Cailler-Nestlé Factory in Broc.
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Participate in workshops and tastings across charming towns and villages.
Belgium
Belgium is another top-tier destination for chocolate lovers.
With over 2,000 chocolatiers and an average production of 270,000 tons of chocolate annually, Belgium has a rich chocolate history dating back to the 17th century.
In Brussels, the heart of Belgian chocolate culture:
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Explore chocolate factories and workshops.
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Visit Choco-Story Brussels, a museum with tastings and live demos.
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Stop by Mary Chocolatier, near the Royal Palace—long favored by Belgian royalty.
Belgium is also the birthplace of pralines, invented in 1912 by chocolatier Jean Neuhaus—a must-try treat during any visit.
Mexico & Latin America
Chocolate still plays a central role in Mexican cuisine and culture.
Chocolate's roots are less sweet and more bitter—originally enjoyed as a thick, frothy beverage called “xocolatl”, or "bitter water", by early civilizations like the Aztecs, who even used cacao beans as currency.
Today, traditional Mexican chocolate includes spices like cinnamon and is often enjoyed as a rich hot drink. Latin American countries like Costa Rica and Peru also have deep cacao traditions and serve delicious chocolate treats worth exploring.
France
Paris boasts hundreds of master chocolatiers.
Known as one of the world's culinary capitals, Paris is home to gourmet chocolate shops like:
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La Maison du Chocolat
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Jean-Paul Hévin
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Pralus
Enjoy elegant chocolate pastries with coffee, or simply stroll through Parisian streets with a sweet in hand, surrounded by stunning architecture and iconic landmarks.
Italy
Italy isn’t just pizza and pasta—it’s a paradise for chocolate lovers too.
Turin, in northwest Italy, is considered the country’s “chocolate capital.” It’s famous for:
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Gianduiotto: chocolate blended with hazelnuts.
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Bicerin: a traditional hot drink combining espresso, chocolate, and cream.
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Nutella, which originated in the nearby Piedmont region.
Visit historic cafés in Turin for the “Merenda Reale”, a royal-style chocolate afternoon tea.
United Kingdom
When thinking of British food, fish & chips and Yorkshire pudding may come to mind—but don’t forget chocolate!
The UK has a long chocolate-making tradition. In fact, Fry & Sons created the world’s first chocolate bar in England in 1847. While the UK may not have the chocolate fame of Belgium or Switzerland, its chocolate is rich, smooth, and beloved.
Japan
Japan is a surprising gem for chocolate lovers.
Indulge in local favorites like:
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Pocky (chocolate-covered biscuit sticks)
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Black Thunder (crispy chocolate bars)
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Lotte’s chocolate pies
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Meiji chocolate in various flavors
In Hokkaido, visit the Royce Chocolate World, a specialty store and factory offering insights into Japanese chocolate craftsmanship.
Whether you’re sipping ancient-style cacao in Mexico or tasting pralines in Belgium, World Chocolate Day is the perfect excuse to indulge your sweet tooth and maybe even plan your next delicious adventure.
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