Monday, Chocolate Week 2025
Morning:
9:00 AM – Arrival & Breakfast
Start your day at The Chocolate Company Café. This café is famous for its rich, velvety hot chocolate and decadent pastries. Try a chocolate croissant or their signature truffle-inspired coffee to get you in the chocolate spirit.
10:00 AM – Visit to the Amsterdam Chocolate Museum
Head over to the Amsterdam Chocolate Museum, where you can immerse yourself in the history of cocoa, from its ancient origins to the rise of the Dutch chocolate industry. Explore the exhibits and enjoy a few interactive tastings. The museum also often runs special Chocolate Week demonstrations, so it’s worth asking about any events on that day.
Midday:
11:30 AM – Puccini Bomboni
Take a short walk to Puccini Bomboni, one of the most renowned chocolate shops in Amsterdam. Their pralines are exceptional—delicate, rich, and beautifully crafted. You can sample some and learn about their unique approach to chocolate-making, which focuses on sourcing the finest ingredients.
12:15 PM – Canal-side Stroll & Chocolate Coffee Break
Stroll along the picturesque canals of Amsterdam and stop by a local café for a chocolate latte or hot chocolate. You can find plenty of spots with tempting chocolate-based drinks to help fuel your next stops. A great option is Chocolaterie Pompadour, known for its high-quality cocoa drinks.
Afternoon:
1:00 PM – Original Beans or The Cacao Factory
Head to Original Beans or The Cacao Factory for an educational and indulgent stop. Both locations are dedicated to sustainably sourced, premium chocolates. You can explore their range of chocolate bars and learn about the ethical and sustainable side of chocolate production.
2:00 PM – Chocolate Tasting Walking Tour
Embark on a guided chocolate tour to explore several of Amsterdam’s top chocolatiers, including Léonidas and Chocolatl Experience. During the tour, you’ll taste your way through some of the finest chocolates Amsterdam has to offer while learning about the artistry and craftsmanship behind each creation.
Late Afternoon:
3:30 PM – Visit to Van Wees Chocolate
Make your way to Van Wees, one of Amsterdam’s hidden gems. They offer an excellent range of artisanal chocolates and truffles. Their rich and smooth pralines are perfect for anyone who wants to experience Dutch chocolate craftsmanship at its finest.
4:30 PM – Relaxing Chocolate Break
For a relaxing chocolate experience, stop by Café de Klos for a chocolate-themed cocktail or a slice of their chocolate cake. It’s a great spot to unwind after a busy day of tasting and touring.
Evening:
5:30 PM – Dinner at De Belhamel or Gaultier
Treat yourself to dinner at De Belhamel or Gaultier, two of Amsterdam’s top dining spots known for their refined menus. Both restaurants offer elegant dining experiences, and Gaultier often incorporates chocolate into its tasting menus. Look out for a dessert featuring rich, dark chocolate or a warm chocolate soufflé to finish your meal.
7:30 PM – Chocolate Nightcap at Chocolaterie Pompadour
End your chocolate safari with a nightcap at Chocolaterie Pompadour, where you can indulge in a final cup of decadent hot chocolate or even a chocolate martini. It’s a lovely way to reflect on your chocolate-filled day.
Additional Tips:
Tony's Chocolonely Super Store: is adjoining the festival venue
Bookings:
Given that Chocolate Week draws crowds, try to book your spots for tours, tastings, and dinner reservations ahead of time, especially since Chocoa begins the next day.
Souvenirs:
Don’t forget to pick up some chocolates from the shops you visit. Puccini Bomboni and Original Beans both have beautifully packaged artisanal chocolates that make perfect souvenirs.
Transport:
Amsterdam’s public transport system is easy to navigate, but walking and cycling around the city will give you the best experience, allowing you to enjoy the charming streets and canals.
This itinerary is packed with the best chocolate spots in Amsterdam, giving you a fantastic preview of the city’s rich chocolate culture before the official Chocoa Festival kicks off the next day.