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The Enchanting Capital of Chocolate: Turin, Italy.

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A different array of special chocolate flavours from local artisans. I EAT Food Tours, Turin

Turin: The Enchanting Chocolate Capital of Italy

chocolate and pralines on a window

Guided Chocolate Tastings to discover the power of Turin’s Chocolate and beyond

Nestled in the heart of Piedmont, Turin is a city where chocolate isn’t just a treat, it’s a tradition, an art form, and a way of life. Known as Italy’s chocolate capital, Turin boasts a rich history, world-famous chocolatiers, and unique creations like gianduja and gianduiotto.

a man and a woman sitting at a table drinking wine

Gift your dear ones with one of the most appreciated and delightful experiences: A chocolate enchanting time in Torino. Fully customised on request.

As a local food expert and co-founder of I Eat Food Tours Torino, I’m excited to guide you through Turin’s chocolate legacy and invite you to join our exclusive Chocolate & Sweets Tour, especially during the vibrant CioccolaTO festival, happening from February 27th to March 2nd, 2025.

a person sitting at a table with a cup of coffee

Hosting a master pastry chef and chemistry professor from Paris/San Francisco to uncover the magic of our chocolate and sweets tour in Torino

Historical Affair with Chocolate

a person sitting at a table with a cup of chocolate

Chocolate Lovers on a journey through Turin’s delights.

Turin’s love affair with chocolate dates back to the 16th century. In 1559, Duke Emmanuel Philibert of Savoy returned from the Peace of Cateau-Cambrésis, bringing with him the first cocoa beans to Piedmont. (If you’re curious to dive deeper onto this, I invite you to my previous blog HERE).

To celebrate moving the ducal capital from Chambéry to Turin, he served a steaming cup of hot chocolate to the city, a gesture that ignited Turin’s enduring passion for this delectable delight.

Women standing and smiling holding a cup of chocolate

Such a great fun with this mother & daughters reunion on our Chocolate Expedition! From Los Angeles to Torino, united by the love of chocolate

By 1678, the House of Savoy granted the first official license for chocolate production in Turin. This pivotal moment transformed the city into a hub for chocolate artisans, laying the foundation for a chocolate-making tradition that continues to enchant locals and visitors alike.

a person standing in front of a box

Turin and the iconic Gianduiotto Torinese

Birth of Gianduja: Turin’s Sweet Innovation

The early 19th century brought challenges with Napoleon’s Continental Blockade, which restricted cocoa imports. Turin’s resourceful chocolatiers turned adversity into opportunity by blending scarce cocoa with locally sourced hazelnuts from the Langhe region, creating the velvety-smooth gianduja.

a group of people sitting at a table

Chocolate games are fun and I am always up to let you try something delightful in combination to something educational and vibrant to experience

This harmonious fusion not only extended cocoa supplies but also gave birth to the iconic gianduiotto: a creamy, melt-in-your-mouth confection that has become synonymous with Turin’s chocolate mastery. Today, gianduja remains a must-try for anyone visiting Turin.

CioccolaTò 2025: A Celebration of Chocolate in Turin

Mark your calendars for CioccolaTò 2025, taking place from February 27th to March 2nd in the heart of Turin. This annual festival transforms the city into a chocolate lover’s paradise, featuring:

  • Artisanal Exhibits: Discover an array of chocolate creations from local and international chocolatiers, each showcasing their unique craftsmanship.
  • Workshops and Tastings: Engage in hands-on experiences, learn the art of chocolate-making, and indulge in guided tastings that tantalize the senses.
  • Cultural Events: Enjoy live performances, art installations, and historical exhibits that celebrate Turin’s chocolate heritage.

This festival is the perfect occasion to explore Turin’s chocolate traditions, meet passionate chocolatiers, and immerse yourself in a world of sweet indulgence.

Experience Turin’s Chocolate Legacy with I Eat Food Tours

A group of ladies posing with a gelato

As a passionate local and co-founder of I Eat Food Tours Torino, I invite you to delve deeper into Turin’s chocolate scene with our curated Chocolate & Sweets Tour. Here’s why our chocolate saga (that goes beyond chocolate) is an unforgettable and unique experience:

  • Insider Access: Visit selected locally owned shops and meet the artisans behind Turin’s most beloved confections.
  • Exclusive Tastings: Savor a curated selection of chocolates, artisanal gelato, pastries, and sweets that embody Turin’s culinary excellence.
  • Cultural Insights: Learn about the traditions, stories, and innovations that have shaped Turin’s chocolate landscape over the centuries.
  • Personalized Experience: With intimate group sizes, we ensure a personalized and engaging journey tailored to your interests.
a close up of food

Chocolate Tasting. Haute Chocolate and Parisserie with I Eat Food Tours, Torino

Whether you’re a seasoned chocolate connoisseur or simply have a sweet tooth, our chocolate andventure offers a unique opportunity to taste, discover, and fall in love with Turin’s chocolate heritage.

a person sitting at a table with a cake

Dillo con un cioccolatino. A special moment of love to celebrate with these adorable couple from Torino

a cup of coffee on a table

Triple layered delight: bicerin di Torino from one of our chocolate tours

Why Turin is Italy’s Ultimate Chocolate Destination

Turin is not only the birthplace of gianduja and gianduiotto, but also home to prestigious brands like Caffarel, Guido Gobino, and Domori. The city’s café culture, with iconic spots like Caffè Al Bicerin, offers the perfect setting to savor Bicerin, a local drink that layers coffee, chocolate, and cream.

From the elegant streets of Piazza San Carlo to the hidden gems of historic chocolatiers, Turin’s chocolate trail is an experience you shouldn’t miss. With events like CioccolaTò, there’s no better time to discover why Turin is truly Italy’s chocolate capital.

Plan Your Chocolate Journey in Turin with me

Ready to explore the enchanting world of Turin’s chocolate? Book your spot on our Chocolate & Sweets Tour and join me for an indulgent journey through Turin’s sweetest traditions. Whether you visit during CioccolaTò 2025 or another time of the year, Turin’s chocolate charm awaits you.

Taste the tradition. Discover the stories. Experience Turin.

Thanks for reading and looking forward to having you onboard!

Cecilia

a vase filled with pink flowers on a table

I love turning things upside down and look at how they look. Do you, too?

Or Lia, the fairy of chocolate magic made in Torino

xx

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