There’s something universally exciting about candy—it’s a small, delightful bite of a place’s flavor, culture, and creativity. For travelers with a sweet tooth, sampling local candies is one of the best ways to experience a country’s culinary uniqueness. From handmade treats in family-owned shops to wildly popular sweets with flavors unique to their region, here’s a guide to must-try candies from around the world.
1. Japan – Hi-Chew
Japan is known for its inventive flavors and precise, enjoyable textures, and Hi-Chew perfectly embodies these traits. Originally inspired by traditional Japanese rice cakes, this chewy candy is famous for its intense fruit flavors and soft, long-lasting chew. While Hi-Chew can be found internationally, flavors like Yuzu, Green Apple, and Sakura (cherry blossom) are often only available in Japan. Head to convenience stores or Don Quijote for an authentic, flavor-packed experience.
2. Turkey – Turkish Delight (Lokum)
Turkish Delight, or lokum, is a classic sweet treat that’s been enjoyed for centuries. These jelly-like cubes, dusted with powdered sugar, come in flavors ranging from rosewater and pomegranate to pistachio and walnut. In Istanbul, the famous Hafiz Mustafa or Karaköy Güllüoğlu offer some of the finest Turkish Delight in the country, providing a unique window into Turkey’s vibrant flavors.
3. Mexico – Mazapán de Cacahuate
Mazapán de Cacahuate is a popular Mexican candy made from crushed peanuts and sugar. Its crumbly texture and peanut-forward taste make it both simple and deeply satisfying. Brands like De La Rosa are famous for this treat, which is often enjoyed with a sprinkle of chili powder for extra zest. Try it from local markets in Mexico City or any corner store across the country.
4. Belgium – Pralines
Known as the chocolate capital of the world, Belgium’s pralines are a must-try for chocolate lovers. These filled chocolates come with an array of delicious centers, from hazelnut and caramel to fruit and liqueur flavors. Brands like Neuhaus, Godiva, and Pierre Marcolini have perfected praline-making, making Brussels a top destination for sampling this luxurious candy.
5. Argentina – Dulce de Leche Alfajores
In Argentina, alfajores—two crumbly cookies sandwiching a layer of dulce de leche—are beloved treats often enjoyed with coffee. You’ll find versions coated in chocolate or dusted with powdered sugar. Havanna is one of Argentina’s most famous brands, offering a variety of alfajores that make for perfect souvenirs or snacks during your travels in Buenos Aires.
6. United Kingdom – Fudge
For a taste of traditional English sweets, try the creamy, melt-in-your-mouth goodness of fudge. Made with sugar, butter, and milk, fudge comes in classic flavors like vanilla and chocolate as well as unique varieties like clotted cream. Cornwall and Devon are known for their rich fudge, available in sweet shops throughout the UK.
7. Thailand – Mango Sticky Rice Candy
Thailand’s mango sticky rice is famous as a dessert, but in candy form, it’s a portable taste of this popular dish. With flavors that mimic the real thing—sweet mango paired with a hint of coconut rice—this candy is both unusual and addictive. Look for it in markets like Chatuchak in Bangkok for a delicious souvenir.
8. Italy – Torrone
Italy’s torrone is a soft, chewy nougat filled with almonds or other nuts, often enjoyed during festive seasons. This candy, traditionally made in regions like Sicily and Lombardy, is flavored with honey and citrus zest, making it aromatic and delicious. Venchi and other Italian confectioners offer beautiful boxes of torrone that make a perfect treat to enjoy while exploring Italy.
9. India – Peda
Peda is a soft, rich Indian sweet made with condensed milk, sugar, and flavors like cardamom or saffron. It’s a traditional offering during festivals and celebrations and is beloved throughout the country. Try it fresh from Mathura, its birthplace, or from local sweet shops across India to get a true taste of Indian sweets.
10. South Korea – Pepero
South Korea’s Pepero is a chocolate-covered biscuit stick similar to Japan’s Pocky, but with a distinctly Korean twist. Pepero comes in various flavors, including chocolate, almond, and strawberry. The candy is so popular that South Korea celebrates Pepero Day on November 11th, where friends and loved ones exchange boxes of Pepero. Pick some up at Lotte Mart to enjoy as a sweet souvenir.
Honorable Mentions: More Candies to Savor on Your Global Candy Quest
- France – Calissons: A French specialty from Aix-en-Provence made with almonds and candied melon.
- Brazil – Brigadeiro: Fudgy chocolate balls rolled in sprinkles, a popular treat at Brazilian celebrations.
- Greece – Loukoumi: Similar to Turkish Delight but with a Greek twist, often enjoyed with a cup of Greek coffee.
- Netherlands – Stroopwafels: Thin waffles filled with caramel syrup, best enjoyed with a hot beverage.
A Sweet Adventure Awaits
Embarking on a global candy quest is a delicious way to connect with new places and flavors. Each candy on this list offers a taste of the local culture and culinary traditions, making it an ideal companion on any travel itinerary. Whether you’re picking up pralines in Belgium or enjoying a chewy Hi-Chew in Japan, every candy tells a story—one that’s just as sweet as the treat itself.
Happy travels and sweet sampling!
