Candy Lands! Top towns to indulge your sweet tooth

Zurich, Switzerland

The Lindt Home of Chocolate bills itself as a “state-of-the-art chocolate experience,” and it is pretty epic. Go on an interactive tour, take in the giant chocolate fountain, and have lunch at a cafe serving chocolate-based treats along with other delicacies.

The home of Lindt chocolates is as luxurious as it is delicious. If you love Lindt’s chocolate truffles, bars, and other products – a visit to the chocolatier’s headquarters in Zurich is a dream. IHG One Rewards members can take advantage of IHG’s exclusive partnership with Mr and Mrs Smith and use their points to book a stay at the chic lakeside La Réserve Eden au Lac Zürich. This nautical escape provides all the amenities and ambiance of a five-star stay and has the added bonus of being kid-friendly, even offering babysitting services.

For a stay that’s closer to the city and minutes from both the Zurich airport and train station, opt for Holiday Inn Zürich - Messe. Zurich is one of Europe’s most beautiful, historic cities with stunning cityscapes, museums, parks, and more.

Fairfield, California

Gaining popularity in the early 1900s, jellybeans quickly became a staple in Easter baskets and celebrations in the U.S. Today, these little drops of chewy candy are enjoyed year-round courtesy of Jelly Belly, which delights kids and adults alike with unique flavors like butter popcorn and root beer! If you love discovering new flavors of jelly beans, the Jelly Belly Factory Tour and Jelly Belly Candy Store are literally a real treat.

For all the comforts of home (and a hotel!), book a suite at Staybridge Suites Napa Valley. It’s the perfect choice for a day trip to Fairfield, and to take in the beauty of California’s famed Napa Valley. Suites come with a fully equipped kitchen, separate sleeping and living areas, and a flexible workspace. With several wineries nearby, golf courses, parks, and more – Fairfield is a hidden gem in the Golden State.

Birmingham, UK

John Cadbury opened a shop in Birmingham, England, in 1824, selling cocoa and drinking chocolate. By 1847 the Cadbury chocolate business was booming, with a large factory at the center of town. Today the British company makes some of the world’s most beloved products, from the Cadbury Crème Egg to a bevy of candy bars, eclairs, hot chocolates, and cookies. Visitors to Birmingham can explore Cadbury World, where they can make their own chocolate bar, watch a 4d show, and so much more. In addition to Cadbury World, a stroll through the lush Birmingham Botanical Gardens and catching a show at Hippodrome make this city perfect for family vacations.

Holiday Inn Express Birmingham – City Centre and Crowne Plaza Birmingham City Centre are both located in the heart of the city, are a 15-minute drive to Cadbury World, and are a short walk to the train station and shopping malls. Staybridge Suites Birmingham is a 20-minute drive from Cadbury World and a good choice for families seeking a longer stay.

Berlin, Germany

Ritter Sport was founded in 1912 in Stuttgart, Germany – its unique name derived from the founder’s vision that there should be a chocolate bar that fits in the pocket of everyone’s sports jacket. Today Ritter Sport can be found all over the world, and while its headquarters is in Waldenbuch, Germany – the brand’s Colorful Chocolate World in Berlin is a must-see attraction for chocoholic travelers. In addition to the full Ritter Sport experience, the city is also home to several artisan candy and chocolate shops, boasting a rich history, stunning architecture, and of course – some of the best beer in the world.

There is no shortage of unique properties in this city. For an ultra-luxurious stay where you can immerse yourself in the old-world glamour of the town – look no further than Regent Berlin. For a laidback vibe where you feel like you’re part of the neighborhood, opt for Hotel Indigo Berlin – East Side Gallery, in one of the most iconic parts of the city. And for a family trip, there’s no beating Holiday Inn Express Berlin City Centre.

Dubai, United Arab Emirates

As one of the world’s biggest candy shops, Candylicious in Dubai has more than 5,500 varieties of candy. Visitors can get lost inside this candy haven and spend hours browsing. Purchase customized bags of candy, one-of-a-kind giant lollipops, artisan chocolates, and your brand-name favorites. And it’s not just about the candy – the store also sells candy-themed housewares, stuffed toys, and apparel! Stay at the nearby voco Bonnington Dubai or InterContinental Dubai Marina and enjoy one of the most desirable locations in the city by the waterfront. The hotels are near some of the best restaurants, shopping, and glamour the city offers.

Last – but absolutely not least – is Hershey, Pennsylvania. Named after the famous chocolate company that calls it home – there is no better place in the United States for a candy lover to visit than Hershey. From candy-themed rides and attractions at Hershey Park to creating your own candy bar at Chocolate World – families can spend a long weekend experiencing all the city offers with a bevy of activities kids will love. More than 500 butterflies call Hershey Gardens home, tour the majestic Hersey Theatre and for the most decadent of spa treatments – make time to visit MeltSpa by Hershey and indulge in one of its exclusive dark chocolate treatments.

Stay at the nearby Holiday Inn Express Hersey – it’s only minutes from all the major attractions, including Hershey Park and Chocolate World. It’s also close to downtown Harrisburg and has a wide selection of restaurants and bars. The hotel has an indoor, heated pool, 24-hour fitness center, and a hot, complimentary breakfast every morning.

Hotel Indigo Harrisburg – Hershey is about a 15–20-minute drive from Hershey and still close enough to enjoy all it offers. Guests can spend their day in Hershey while reserving their evenings for the bustling nightlife of downtown Harrisburg.

For other sweet travels, visit IHG Hotels & Resorts to book your stay.