Godiva Chocolatier

The story of Godiva began in 1926 when Pierre Draps Senior started crafting pralines in his home kitchen in Brussels. Named after the legendary Lady Godiva to symbolize passion, boldness, and generosity, the brand quickly became synonymous with luxury. The boutique located at the spectacular Grand-Place is a pilgrimage site for chocolate lovers. Surrounded by opulent guildhalls and the stunning Town Hall, the shop's location is as breathtaking as the confections inside. Visitors can witness the artistry of chocolate making through the window displays, where fresh strawberries are often hand-dipped in rich, molten chocolate.

Reasons to Visit

• Experience the heritage of one of the world's most famous chocolate brands in its home city.
• Taste fresh, hand-dipped chocolate strawberries prepared right before your eyes.
• Purchase exclusive Belgian pralines and beautifully packaged gifts.
• Enjoy the stunning architectural backdrop of the UNESCO-listed Grand-Place.

Things to Avoid

• Avoid visiting during peak weekend afternoons if you prefer a quiet shopping experience, as lines can form out the door.
• Do not leave your chocolate purchases in a hot car or carry them around all day in the summer heat; they will melt.
• Avoid touching the glass display cases to help maintain the pristine look of the boutique.

Local Transportation Tips

The Godiva Chocolatier is located in the pedestrian-only zone of the Grand-Place. The easiest way to reach it is by taking the train to Brussels Central Station (Gare Centrale), which is only a 5-minute walk away. Alternatively, you can take the Metro (Lines 1 or 5) to the 'De Brouckère' or 'Gare Centrale' stations.

Travel Etiquette

• Wait patiently in line, as the boutique can get busy with tourists.
• Greet the staff with a polite 'Bonjour' when entering the shop.
• Ask for assistance rather than reaching over counters to point at delicate chocolates.

Recommended Age Group

Godiva Chocolatier offers a delightful experience for visitors of all ages who appreciate fine sweets.

• Babies (0-2 years): Neutral. While they may not eat the chocolate, the visual stimulation of the shop is pleasant, though strollers may be hard to maneuver when crowded.
• Kids (3-12 years): Recommended. Children will be mesmerized by the chocolate-dipped strawberries and the sweet treats.
• Teens (13-19 years): Recommended. A great spot for picking up gifts and taking aesthetic photos for social media.
• Adults (20-64 years): Recommended. Perfect for indulging in high-quality gastronomy and purchasing luxury souvenirs.
• Seniors (65+ years): Recommended. The shop is easily accessible on the ground floor, offering a relaxed and elegant shopping experience.

Accessibility Level: Medium

• The entrance to the boutique is on the ground floor with no major steps, making it accessible for wheelchair users.
• The surrounding Grand-Place is paved with historic cobblestones, which can be uneven and challenging for mobility devices.
• During peak tourist seasons, the interior of the shop can become quite crowded, limiting maneuverability.

Did You Know?

Godiva was appointed as the official chocolatier to the Royal Court of Belgium in 1968, a prestigious warrant that cemented its status as an ambassador of high-quality Belgian craftsmanship.

Cool Statistics

• Founded in: 1926
• Location: Grand-Place, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Royal Warrant: Granted in 1968 by the King of Belgium