Bruges: Belgian Praline and Mendiants Chocolate Workshop

If you’re visiting Bruges and have a sweet tooth—or even just a curiosity about how Belgian chocolates are made—this chocolate workshop might be just the thing. While we haven’t personally done it ourselves, based on reviews and the info available, it’s a popular choice for those looking to get hands-on with chocolate in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere.

What we really like about this experience is how it combines learning and fun. You’ll walk away not only with a handful of delicious chocolates but also new skills that could inspire your own kitchen experiments. And, with supportive guides and a chance to create over 30 chocolates, it clearly offers good value for the price.

However, a thing to consider is that this workshop is not suitable for children under 12, so if you’re traveling with younger kids, you’ll need to look elsewhere. Also, since the activity is quite focused on making chocolates from scratch, it might not appeal to those who prefer more passive experiences, like tasting or museum visits.

This experience suits anyone eager to understand the art of Belgian chocolate making, whether you’re a dedicated chocoholic or just a curious traveler wanting a memorable, interactive activity in Bruges.

Key Points

• Hands-on experience that teaches you how to make traditional Belgian pralines and mendiants.
• Expert guidance from knowledgeable, friendly instructors who keep things fun.
• Create your own chocolates — over 30 pieces to enjoy and take home.
• Includes support, ingredients, and tools, making it accessible even if you’re a beginner.
• Ideal for those wanting a cultural and culinary highlight of Bruges.
• Not suitable for children under 12, so plan accordingly.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Chocolate Workshop in Bruges

When you sign up for this 2.5-hour experience, you’re signing up for more than just a simple demonstration; it’s a full participation experience. From the moment you arrive, you’ll be equipped with aprons, cookware, and all the ingredients needed to craft Belgian chocolates from scratch.

The workshop is conveniently held in the heart of Bruges, at a central location on Grauwwerkersstraat, just a short walk from the main square. This makes it easy to combine with other sightseeing or enjoy a leisurely stroll through the city afterward. The group sizes are small, with each station hosting just 2-3 participants, which means you’ll receive plenty of individual attention.

Learning the Art of Chocolate Making

Your instructor guides you through the process of tempering chocolate, which is essential to achieving that glossy finish and perfect texture. The focus is on two classic types of Belgian chocolates: pralines and mendiants.

Pralines are the stars of Belgian chocolate, with their delicate shells and creamy fillings. You’ll learn how to make both the shells and the fillings from scratch, which is a satisfying skill to take away. Many reviews mention that guides like Harry are not only knowledgeable but also funny, making the session engaging and enjoyable. One reviewer highlighted that Harry’s humor and expertise made the experience memorable.

Mendiants, on the other hand, are crispy discs topped with dried fruits and nuts—simple but iconic. These are fun to customize with different flavors and toppings, adding a playful element to the session.

Creating and Tasting Your Chocolates

The best part? You’ll get to play around with flavors and shapes, creating at least 30 chocolates during the session. You can taste some immediately, and you’ll also take a box of your creations home—perfect for sharing or indulging over the next few days. Many reviews rave about the quality and taste of the chocolates made during the workshop, with some mentioning they still enjoy their treats days later.

Hot Chocolate and Additional Touches

As a bonus, you’ll enjoy a cup of hot chocolate during the session—an ideal way to warm up and get inspired. The hot chocolate is frequently praised for its richness and comforting flavor, adding a cozy touch to the experience.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Value and Pricing

At $67 per person, this workshop offers a comprehensive, hands-on activity that includes all ingredients, cookware, aprons, guidance, and a box to take your chocolates home. For that price, you’re getting an educational experience that goes beyond just watching—you’re actively making and learning.

Given that you’ll produce over 30 chocolates and receive personal guidance from experienced instructors, this price seems quite reasonable. Many travelers also mention that they come away with a new appreciation for Belgian chocolates and a set of skills that could even help them make more at home.

The Small Group Advantage

Because each station hosts only 2-3 participants, the experience is intimate, allowing for personalized tips and easier questions. This small-group setting is a big plus for those wanting a more relaxed, interactive workshop rather than a large, impersonal class.

Who Should Consider This Experience?

This workshop is ideal for adventure-seeking foodies, curious travelers, and anyone wanting a memorable activity in Bruges. It’s especially suitable if you enjoy hands-on experiences and want to learn some practical skills.

If you’re traveling with children over 12 who love chocolate, it could be a fun family activity, but keep in mind the age restriction. Also, if you’re looking for a quick taste or a passive tour, this might be too involved.

People who appreciate good guides, the opportunity to ask questions, and enjoy the process of making something with their own hands will find this workshop rewarding. Reviewers consistently say it’s fun, educational, and delicious—making it a hit during their visit.

The Experience – Breaking Down the Workshop

The workshop begins with an introduction to the basics of chocolate tempering and the history of Belgian chocolates, setting the stage for what’s to come. You’ll then move through the stations—making the shells and fillings for pralines and creating mendiants.

The instructor will demonstrate each step before you try it yourself. You’ll learn techniques that are passed down from Belgian chocolatiers, giving you insight into traditional methods. Expect to spend time carefully tempering chocolate, which is key to producing shiny, professional-looking chocolates.

Once you’ve mastered the basics, you’ll have the chance to play with flavor combinations—adding liqueurs, nuts, dried fruits, or other toppings to your chocolates. The process encourages creativity, and many reviews mention how much fun it is to experiment.

Creating Your Own Choco-Collection

By the end of the session, you’ll have assembled your own box of 30+ chocolates. The chocolates are beautifully crafted and taste as good as they look—many reviewers praise the flavor and smooth texture. While some participants mention that the process isn’t overly complicated, they still leave with a sense of accomplishment and a new skill.

The Supportive Atmosphere

Throughout the workshop, instructors like Sam, Harry, and August are lauded for their friendly support and humor. They make sure everyone stays engaged and confident in their abilities. One reviewer pointed out that their guide shared a lot of information about the history of chocolate, which added extra value.

Final Thoughts: Is This the Right Choice?

This Belgian chocolate workshop offers a well-rounded, engaging experience that combines education, fun, and delicious results. It’s especially suited for travelers who value hands-on activities and want a tangible souvenir—your homemade chocolates—that you can keep or share.

If you’re passionate about learning new skills and enjoy tasty treats, this is a highly recommended activity in Bruges. The small group setting and expert guidance ensure you’ll leave with not only chocolates but also memories and knowledge.

However, it’s not for those seeking a quick, passive experience or traveling with very young children. And if you’re sensitive to dairy or cocoa allergies, it’s worth noting that milk chocolate is used for fillings, though dairy-free versions can often be requested.

All in all, for the price, this workshop makes a fantastic addition to your Bruges itinerary—especially if you’re a chocolate lover or want to experience a bit of local tradition firsthand.

FAQ

Is the workshop suitable for beginners?
Yes, the workshop is designed to be accessible, even if you’ve never made chocolates before. Guides offer detailed instructions, and support is on hand throughout.

Are ingredients provided?
Absolutely, all ingredients, cookware, and aprons are included, so you don’t need to bring anything except your enthusiasm.

Can I make dairy-free chocolates?
While dark chocolate (gluten-free and dairy-free by definition) is used for the shells, milk chocolate is used for the fillings. Dairy-free options are available upon request at the start.

How many chocolates will I make?
You will create over 30 chocolates, which you can taste during the session and take home in your box.

Is there a hot chocolate included?
Yes, you’ll enjoy a cup of hot chocolate during the workshop, which is often praised for its richness.

What’s the location of the workshop?
It’s held at Grauwwerkersstraat 15, just a 5-minute walk from the main square and about 20 minutes from the train station.

Is this activity family-friendly?
Children under 12 are not admitted, so it’s better suited for older kids, teens, and adults.

How flexible is the booking?
You can reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the activity.

What language is the workshop conducted in?
It’s run in English, making it accessible for most travelers.

If you’re in Bruges and want a fun, educational, and tasty experience, this chocolate workshop is definitely worth considering. It strikes a good balance between skill-building and indulgence, with plenty of opportunities to enjoy the process and take home some genuinely handmade treats.

You can check availability for your dates here: