The Lindt Home of Chocolate in Zurich is a popular stop for chocolate lovers. And it is often completely sold out! Especially in peak season.
But did you know that Switzerland has lots of other fantastic chocolate experiences?
From boutique chocolatiers to traditional factories, some top alternatives are worth exploring.
House of Läderach, Bilten (Close To Zurich)
Läderach is known for its premium, handcrafted chocolate, especially their famous FrischSchoggi (fresh chocolate slabs).
At their “House of Läderach” factory in Bilten, visitors can explore the interactive Chocolate Experience, learn about chocolate making, and of course, indulge in tastings as well as make your own chocolate bar..
📍 Location: Bilten (Google Maps)
🔗 Official website: LINK HERE
🚂 How to get there:
- From Zurich: About 1 hour by train to Ziegelbrücke, then a short bus or taxi ride.
- From Lucerne: Around 1 hour 30 minutes by train via Ziegelbrücke.
Max Chocolatier, Lucerne
For a more boutique, artisanal experience, visit Max Chocolatier in Lucerne. This family-owned company creates luxurious handmade chocolates with natural ingredients. You can book private tastings and workshops for a more intimate chocolate adventure.
📍 Location: Bilten (Google Maps)
🔗 Official website: LINK HERE
🚂 How to get there:
- From Zurich: Around 50 minutes by train to Lucerne. The shop is a short walk from the train station.
- From Lucerne: Walking distance from the old town if you are already in the city.
Aeschbach Chocolatier, Root (Near Lucerne)
Located between Zurich and Lucerne, Aeschbach Chocolatier offers a fun ChocoWorld experience.
You can tour the small museum, watch chocolatiers at work, decorate your own chocolate, and shop for treats.
📍 Location: Root, near Lucerne (Google Maps)
🔗 Official website: LINK HERE
🚂 How to get there:
- From Zurich: About 50 minutes by train to Root D4 station (yes it’s a strange name), short walk to the factory.
- From Lucerne: Around 15 minutes by train to Root D4 station.
Funky Chocolate Club, Interlaken
For those that are spending a lot of time around Interlaken and not able to make it to Lucerne or further afield, try the Funky Chocolate Club in Interlaken itself.
They offer a fun, hands-on workshop in Interlaken where you can make your own Swiss chocolate bars and learn about the process. Great for families and chocolate lovers alike and of course as a rainy day activity in Interlaken.
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📍 Location: Interlaken (Google Maps)
🔗 Official website: LINK HERE
🚂 How to get there:
- From Zurich: About 2 hours by train.
- From Lucerne: Around 2 hours by train.
Camille Bloch Chocolate Experience, Courtelary
Home of Ragusa and Torino chocolate bars, this modern visitor center allows you to explore the history, watch parts of the production, and enjoy tastings.
📍 Location: Courtelary (Google Maps)
🔗 Official website: LINK HERE
🚂 How to get there:
- From Zurich: Approx. 2.5 hours by train.
- From Lucerne: Around 3 hours by train.
- From Bern: Around 1 hour by train via Biel/Bienne, or about 1 hour by car (approx. 60 km).
Maison Cailler, Broc (Near Gruyeres)
Maison Cailler, the factory of Switzerland’s oldest chocolate brand, offers a classic Swiss chocolate tour. You’ll learn about the history of chocolate, watch parts of the production, and enjoy generous tastings.
Many visitors also combine their Cailler visit with a stop in the nearby medieval town of Gruyères. Here, you can explore Gruyères Castle, stroll through charming cobblestone streets, and visit La Maison du Gruyère, a traditional cheese dairy where you can learn how the famous cheese is made.
📍 Location: Broc, Near Gruyères (Google Maps)
🔗 Official website: LINK HERE
🚂 How to get there:
- From Zurich: Approx. 2.5 hours by train via Bern and Bulle.
- From Lucerne: Around 2.5 hours by train via Bern and Bulle.
- From Montreux: Around 2 hours 25 minutes by train via Montbovon and Bulle.
- From Geneva: Around 2 hours 15 minutes by train via Romont.
Chocolarium by Munz & Minor, Flawil
Nicknamed the “Happiest Chocolate Factory,” the Chocolarium offers interactive exhibits, a factory tour, and plenty of chocolate tastings. A great option for families and chocolate fans.
Location: Flawil, Canton of St. Gallen
Official website: https://www.chocolarium.ch/en/
How to get there:
- From Zurich: About 1 hour by train.
- From Lucerne: Approximately 1 hour 45 minutes by train.
Bonus: Chocolate Walking Tours in Zurich & Lucerne
If you prefer to stay in Zurich (or Lucerne) but skip the museums altogether, consider
- a chocolate-themed walking tour in Zurich, or one in Lucerne. These tours introduce you to several of the city’s top chocolatiers, including Läderach and small local shops, with plenty of samples along the way.
- a self-guided tour the Zurich chocolate shops on your own
Tip: Want to combine chocolate with Swiss sightseeing? Consider combining your visit with Gruyères cheese tasting near Maison Cailler, a lake cruise after visiting Max Chocolatier in Lucerne, or a scenic adventure to Interlaken along with a chocolate workshop!
Plan Your Trip to Switzerland
Accommodation: I always book my hotels via Booking.com. They have some of the best rates, longterm deals, easy cancellation and more 
Transport: Train travel is one of the best ways to explore Switzerland. Buying a Swiss Travel Pass is a great way to save money on travel and museums. 
Car Rental: Having a car gives you flexibility on your travels. I use RentalCars.com and Discover Cars to get the best deals on car rentals in Switzerland. 
Luggage Storage: Find out where you can store your store your luggage while you are visiting various places in Switzerland. 
Trips & Tours:Viator and Get Your Guide are the best places to find local tours and trips for your adventures in Switzerland. 
Packing: Here are my recommendations for what to pack for a trip to Switzerland. As someone who has lived half their life in Switzerland, I have a good idea of what you need to bring! 
