Tomorrow marks the beginning of Easter celebrations, but also the end of many diets as people get stuck into their chocolate treats.
In the UK alone 80 million chocolate Easter eggs are sold each year, making this time of year very lucrative for confectionary companies.
Each year they strive to create the biggest and most inventive eggs, with new flavours and sizes appearing on the shelves.
Most of the world’s best chocolate comes from European countries with each one establishing themselves as experts in the craft, offering some of the best and most luxurious products in the world.
We take a look at the Europe’s top chocolate capitals where you can enjoy some unique, sweet experiences.
Zurich, Switzerland
Switzerland is home to many major global chocolate brands such as Lindt, Nestlé and Toblerone.
It comes as no surprise that on a trip to this beautiful country many of its attractions involve chocolate in some way, no more so than on a ‘Train du chocolate’ (Chocolate Train) day trip.
This intriguing journey begins in Montreux, moving on to the town of Gruyere to sample the famous cheese before heading towards Broc where you will visit the Mason Cailler chocolate factory.
Vienna, Austria
The beautiful city of Vienna is not only famously known as the city of music, but also for its sweet delicacy the Sachertorte.
This is a chocolate sponge with layers of apricot jam, covered in copious amounts of chocolate icing.
It is so sought-after there was even a legal battle between two rival hotels who wanted to call their cake the ‘original’ Sachertorte, resulting in a not so sweet relationship between the two.
Paris, France
The city of love, but also the favoured city of those with a sweet tooth due to its abundance of French chocolate and confectionary shops.
Not only can you eat your body weight in chocolatey goodness but you can also learn all about the history and secrets behind your favourite treats at the Paris Gourmet Chocolate Museum.
Whilst you are here you, why not take part in a chocolate making workshops to make your own special batch of chocolates to take home?
Madrid, Spain
Alongside the traditional chocolate offerings, Spain has something a little bit different to satisfy any cravings.
Typically served in café’s and favoured as a late night snack, Churros are a real Spanish delicacy.
A Churro is a long stick of savoury dough that is deep fried and then served with a side of thick hot chocolate for you to dip it into.
London, United Kingdom
In the UK we are not far behind our European competitors when it comes to our chocolate products.
In London, to showcase the cities fantastic chocolate creations, you can take a walking tour around areas of the city to discover all that is on offer.
On the way, you will uncover many unique flavours and textures, created by London’s finest chocolatiers.