The Aeschbach Chocolate Factory is one of our favorite family destinations in Switzerland—and our go-to spot for authentic Swiss chocolate. We’ve visited more than a dozen times, and our kids still light up with excitement every visit. Just a 10-minute train ride from Lucerne, this chocolate paradise offers a relaxed, family-friendly experience compared to the more crowded major chocolate brands. Plan to spend 2–3 hours tasting chocolate, visiting the shop, and relaxing in the charming café.
Explore the Interactive ChocoWelt
A highlight of the Aeschbach experience is ChocoWelt, the interactive chocolate museum filled with the irresistible aroma of cocoa. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance, and children under five enter for free. Every adult ticket includes a 5 CHF voucher to use in the shop or café. The self-guided tour shares the story of Swiss chocolate making, with signs in both English and German. Guests can taste white, milk, and dark chocolate samples—don’t miss the chocolate fountains! Kids especially love the interactive stations, including a ship to explore, smell tests of ingredients, and a donkey that spits out chocolate coins at the push of a button. ChocoWelt is located upstairs, but it’s fully stroller-friendly thanks to an elevator.
Create Your Own Chocolate Bar
One of the most fun activities at the factory is making your own custom 200g chocolate bar. For an additional 11 CHF, guests can choose a chocolate base and decorate it with toppings of their choice. The mold is shaped like Lucerne’s iconic Chapel Bridge, making it a great souvenir or handmade gift. Be sure to include chocolate-bar tickets when purchasing entrance to ChocoWelt. Since the bars need time to cool, don’t wait to do this at the end of your tour. When the bars are ready, ask a staff member to hold them while you finish exploring the museum to avoid carrying them around. One thing we appreciate is that you don’t need to book a separate course in advance to make chocolate bars, unlike at other Swiss chocolate factories. If the factory is busy, you may have to wait a few minutes until a station opens up—but that’s no problem, as kids stay entertained tasting and learning about chocolate. Note that you cannot make a chocolate bar unless you have a ticket to ChocoWelt. Occasionally, Aeschbach offers special events, such as decorating your own Easter bunny (click here for more information).
Enjoy Sweet Treats at ChocoCafé
After exploring the exhibits, unwind at the ChocoCafé. The café serves a variety of pastries, sweet and savory snacks, and drinks. In good weather, enjoy a pinsa or ice cream on the sunny patio. On colder days, sit by the window overlooking the chocolate production area—kids love watching the process in action. The café conveniently offers high chairs. Remember, you can use your 5 CHF voucher here or at the chocolate boutique.
Shop at the ChocoBoutique
Before heading home, stop by the Aeschbach ChocoBoutique. The shop is filled with themed treats for every season—chocolate bunnies at Easter, Santas at Christmas, and much more. My personal favorite is the Criolloro Grand Cru 66% dark chocolate, while my kids always reach for the classic milk chocolate coins and cute chocolate bugs.
Let the Kids Play Outdoors
Need a place to burn off all that sugar? Right across from the factory entrance, you’ll find a bridge leading to walking paths in a nearby forest. It’s a perfect spot for kids to run around and enjoy some fresh air.
Why Aeschbach Is Worth the Visit
Whether you’re traveling from Lucerne or anywhere in Switzerland, Aeschbach Chocolatier offers the perfect mix of education, creativity, and indulgence. It’s smaller and more personal than other chocolate factories, making it especially enjoyable for families. The factory is easy to reach by train or car (with free parking) and promises a sweet experience that kids and adults alike will remember. For additional family-friendly activities in Lucerne, check out our blog.