Solvang is a unique slice of Denmark in California, and it offers more than just charming streets and bakeries. What makes it stand out for travelers are the diverse tours available — from wine tastings and private day trips to spooky ghost hunts after dark. We love some of the quirky options like the Solvang: Ghost Hunting Tour with a Paranormal Investigator, which mixes history with a dash of adrenaline, and the delicious food and wine explorations that reveal local flavors. Whether you’re into sipping award-winning wines, exploring haunted spots, or soaking in the Danish atmosphere, Solvang’s tours deliver memorable experiences.
For travelers planning their trip, finding the right activity depends on your interests, budget, and how much time you want to spend. Luckily, the list below covers luxury private options like the private sightseeing tour in Los Angeles, as well as more immersive, local experiences like wine and food tours. Take a look at the options and pick the one that fits your style.
1. Private sightseeing tour in Los Angeles
At number 1, the Private sightseeing tour in Los Angeles offers a full day’s personalized exploration of California’s most iconic city. For $500 per group (up to 4 people), you get a 7-hour tour that hits all the main sights—Hollywood Walk of Fame, Hollywood Sign, Griffith Observatory, Downtown LA, Beverly Hills, Santa Monica, and the Venice Canals. What makes this tour special is its customization—you can tailor the itinerary to your interests, making it ideal for families, couples, or small groups who want a personal touch.
Your private guide, who is well-versed in LA’s many layers, will ensure you see the highlights without the hassle of navigating on your own. The tour’s flexibility means you can spend more time at places you love or skip those less appealing. The private nature guarantees personalized attention, and the value extends beyond just seeing sights—it’s about experiencing LA through your own lens.
Bottom line: Perfect for those who want a private, tailored day with expert guidance, especially if time is limited and you want the full LA experience.
2. Solvang: Ghost Hunting Tour with a Paranormal Investigator
Number 2 on our list is the Solvang: Ghost Hunting Tour with a Paranormal Investigator. Priced at just $55 per person, this 1.5-hour after-dark adventure immerses you in the haunted history of Solvang. As the town’s premier ghost tour, it combines storytelling with actual ghost-hunting tools like EMF readers, making it fun and a little spooky.
Led by a professional paranormal investigator, you’ll visit haunted spots and learn about documented hauntings and true crime cases linked to Solvang. The guide’s tips on where to eat or drink after the tour add a practical touch if you want to extend your ghostly evening. Many reviews highlight how engaging and atmospheric the experience is, with one noting, “The guide’s stories gave me chills, and I loved trying out the ghost-hunting tools myself.”
Bottom line: Best suited for those who love spooky stories, history, and a bit of a thrill—this tour makes ghostly tales come alive in a fun, interactive way.
3. Santa Ynez: 3-Winery Tour Includes Tastings and Lunch
The Santa Ynez: 3-Winery Tour is a classic for wine lovers. For $149 per person, you spend about 5 hours visiting three distinctive wineries, each offering a tasting flight. The tour includes wine tasting fees, so you get to enjoy the wines without extra charges, and a gourmet boxed lunch with 7 delicious options plus bottled water.
The tour is designed to be seamless — with transportation from Solvang or Buellton, reservations handled, and a knowledgeable driver/host guiding you through the day. One highlight is the opportunity to learn about local wines, with visits to boutique wineries that focus on small-batch production. Many guests appreciate the mix of delicious wine and a satisfying lunch in scenic surroundings, making it a well-rounded experience.
Bottom line: This tour offers excellent value for wine enthusiasts who want a relaxed, all-inclusive tasting day with some good food thrown in.
4. Solvang: Wine and True Crime Tour with Drinks Included
Mixing dark stories with fine wines, the Solvang: Wine and True Crime Tour is a hit for those curious about Solvang’s mysterious side. At $115 per person, the 2-hour tour visits a slasher-themed winery and two quirky wine bars. It’s perfect for history buffs and wine lovers alike.
What sets this tour apart is its focus on the town’s spooky tales, like stories of serial killers from the 70s and hidden tunnels beneath the town. As you sip local wines, your guide shares chilling tales and insights into Solvang’s lesser-known history. The included drinks and small-group setting (maximum 12 people) make for an intimate, engaging experience.
One reviewer called it “a fascinating blend of true crime and wine,” highlighting how well the stories complement the tasting experience.
Bottom line: Ideal for those intrigued by mysterious stories and local wines, offering a different perspective on Solvang’s past.
5. Private tour to Santa Barbara and Solvang from Los Angeles
For a comprehensive day, Private tour to Santa Barbara and Solvang offers an all-in-one experience. Costing $700 per group (up to 4), it covers both destinations in a single day. The tour is flexible, allowing you to customize the stops, whether you want more time in Santa Barbara’s beaches or exploring Solvang’s Danish charm.
It’s a full-day adventure that includes private transportation, with the guide taking care of logistics and making sure you see the highlights of each place. The tour is perfect for those who want a personalized experience and are willing to splurge a little for convenience and tailored sightseeing. Reviewers mention the ease of having everything handled, making it a good option for busy travelers.
Bottom line: Great for small groups seeking a personalized, flexible day with the best of Santa Barbara and Solvang.
6. Los Olivos: E-Bike Tour + Vineyard Lunch w/Wine Tasting
If you’re after an active, scenic experience, the Los Olivos: E-Bike Tour + Vineyard Lunch offers 4 hours of pedaling through Santa Barbara Wine Country. For $205 per person, you’ll enjoy easy-to-ride high-quality e-bikes, with stops at lavender farms, olive oil tastings, and a miniature horse farm.
The highlight is the farm-to-table vineyard lunch included in the tour, paired with tastings at local wineries. The guides are local residents with deep knowledge of the area’s history and wine traditions. The tour’s relaxed pace and beautiful scenery make it ideal for those who want to combine active exploration with tastings and fresh air. Some reviewers mention that the bikes are easy to handle even for beginners, making it accessible for most.
Bottom line: Perfect for active travelers who want a mix of cycling, scenic views, and good food in a laid-back setting.
7. Solvang: Santa Ynez Valley Wine Tours w/ Lunch & Tastings
The Santa Ynez Valley Wine Tours with Lunch is a five-hour outing that visits 3 small artisan wineries and a private vineyard. For $180 per person, it includes a picnic lunch at one of the wineries, along with tastings and a chocolate pairing at a boutique winery.
The guide provides insights into the area’s wine-making process and local history. Many guests enjoy the personalized touch of visiting boutique wineries that produce distinctive wines. The focus on small producers makes this tour ideal for connoisseurs wanting to explore offbeat spots beyond the larger wineries.
Bottom line: This tour suits wine enthusiasts who prefer a more intimate, laid-back tasting experience with a scenic lunch.
8. Solvang: Food & Photo Tour
For a taste of local lifestyle, the Solvang: Food & Photo Tour is a 3-hour walk through downtown, priced at $160 per person. You’ll enjoy 8-9 tastings of Danish comfort foods, along with some top-shelf wines and craft beers. The tour also offers photography tips to help you capture Solvang’s charm using your smartphone.
This tour is ideal for foodies and Instagram enthusiasts alike, providing a behind-the-scenes look at the local food scene and the chance to learn simple photography tricks. Although it only has one review, the positive comments highlight the informal, friendly atmosphere and delicious tastings.
Bottom line: Great for those who want to combine culinary delights, local culture, and easy photo tips.
$160 per person
9. Solvang: Santa Ynez Valley Wine Walking Tour with Tastings
The Solvang: Santa Ynez Valley Wine Walking Tour offers a semi-private experience for up to 12 people, lasting around 2 hours at $125 per person. You’ll visit 3 local wine bars, tasting a selection of award-winning wines.
This tour is perfect for those who want a casual, social way to explore Solvang’s wine scene without leaving town. Your guide shares insights into the history and culture of the region, making it a good choice for visitors wanting a relaxed, interactive experience.
Bottom line: Suitable for small groups and wine lovers who enjoy walking and sampling local wines in a friendly setting.
$125 per person
How to Choose the Best Tour in Solvang
Picking the right tour depends on what you’re after. If you want a luxury, private experience, the private Los Angeles tour might be your best bet. For wine aficionados, the Santa Ynez wine tours or Santa Ynez Valley wine tasting offer excellent tastings and scenic vineyard visits. If you’re into spooky stories and a bit of thrill, the Ghost Hunting Tour is a fun choice.
Consider your budget, time, and interests—whether you prefer a guided walk, a bike ride, or a private car tour. Booking early is recommended, especially for popular options like the private tours and wine tastings, to secure your preferred dates.
Final Thoughts
From luxury private excursions to interactive wine and food tours, Solvang offers a range of experiences to suit different styles. If you’re a wine lover, the wine-focused tours are especially rewarding, and the wine and true crime tour adds a fun twist. For a more active adventure, the e-bike tour provides scenic views and a relaxed pace.
No matter which tour you choose, booking in advance assures you a spot on these popular experiences. Enjoy your trip to Solvang — a charming town full of surprises waiting to be uncovered!