Victoria is a city that doesn’t just serve up stunning scenery and charming streets; it also offers a vibrant food scene that’s perfect for exploring on a guided tour. Whether you’re after a quick taste of local favorites, a deep dive into Chinatown’s history, or a wine-tasting escape to the Cowichan Valley, Victoria’s food tours have something for all. We particularly like the Downtown Victoria Food & City Tour for its insider stories and diverse bites, and the Victoria Guided Food and History Tour for its comprehensive look at Victoria’s past and flavors. These tours don’t just fill your stomach—they enrich your understanding of this lively city.
Victoria’s culinary scene is packed with independently owned cafes, historic spots, and multicultural influences. Walking through the city with a knowledgeable guide reveals hidden food spots and stories behind the dishes, making your experience as much about local culture as about flavor. The variety of tours offers options for different schedules, budgets, and interests, whether you want a short tasting or a full-day wine adventure.
Quick Overview
Our list highlights five of the best food tours in Victoria, each with its distinctive appeal. From walking explorations of downtown and Chinatown to a full-day wine and food adventure in Cowichan Valley, these experiences showcase Victoria’s rich culinary diversity. For a local’s perspective, the Downtown Victoria Food & City Tour offers personalized attention and a chance to sample everything from French macarons to Middle Eastern street food. If history and eclectic bites are more your style, the Victoria Guided Food and History Tour delivers both. Looking for a combination of wine and scenic beauty? The Indulge in a Wine & Food Tour takes you through the picturesque Cowichan Valley vineyards. For a quick but flavorful tour, the Eat Like a Canadian Food & Sightseeing Tour hits the main food stops along Victoria’s iconic sites. Lastly, the Hip & Hidden Chinatown + Old Town Food Tour combines history, culture, and a wide range of international cuisines.
1. Downtown Victoria Food & City Tour
At number one on our list, the Downtown Victoria Food & City Tour is a fantastic introduction to Victoria’s culinary scene. Priced at $88.99 per person and lasting about two hours, this small-group walk is perfect for those who want a taste of local life without the tourist trap feel. Your guide, an expert on Victoria’s food scene, takes you off the beaten path to visit beloved independent eateries. You’ll sample a variety of dishes, including French macarons, Korean hot dogs, and Middle Eastern street food—enough for a generous lunch.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on local favorites and the stories behind them. You’ll chat with shop owners and chefs, gaining insight into Victoria’s thriving food culture. The tour begins at the historic Steamship Terminal and passes iconic landmarks like the Empress Hotel and the Legislative Assembly. You’ll visit seven spots, including Chocolat & Co. and Bon Macarons, with reviews praising the friendly guide and diverse food offerings. Many say it’s a worthwhile experience that combines culture, history, and great eats. The intimate size makes it easy to ask questions and get personalized attention.
Bottom Line: This tour is ideal for food lovers who want a deep dive into Victoria’s independent food scene, with enough samples for a satisfying lunch and engaging stories along the way.
2. Hip & Hidden Chinatown + Old Town Food Tour Victoria
At number two, the Hip & Hidden Chinatown + Old Town Food Tour offers a rich mix of history and diverse flavors in about two hours. For those curious about Victoria’s roots, this tour explores one of North America’s oldest Chinatowns, including heritage sites like the Chinese Language School and the Gates of Harmonious Interest. It’s a deep dive into a neighborhood that was the heart of Victoria’s early multicultural community.
This tour also takes you through Fan Tan Alley, the narrowest street in Canada, with its fascinating past as a gambling district. The itinerary includes tasting Thai dumplings, Mexican tacos, and sampling craft beer—showcasing Victoria’s multicultural culinary influences. Reviewers love the knowledgeable guide and the variety of food, often highlighting the fun of exploring both historic sites and local eateries at a quick pace. Visitors mention that the tour is perfect for first-timers and foodies alike, offering a balanced mix of education, cultural stories, and tasty bites.
Bottom Line: If you want an engaging mix of Victoria’s history and international cuisine in a short timeframe, this tour hits the mark—ideal for those who enjoy exploring neighborhoods with a story.
3. Indulge in a Wine & Food Tour – Cowichan Valley
Number three on our list is the Indulge in a Wine & Food Tour, an all-day journey into Victoria’s renowned wine country. For around $125.33, you’ll spend about six hours touring three (or four if possible) of the region’s top vineyards. The tour includes a bubbly toast with fresh baked goods at your first stop, a scenic drive through the Malahat Mountain range, and an afternoon of wine tastings paired with local cheeses and charcuterie.
What sets this experience apart is the combination of wine, food, and scenery. The guide shares insights into the region’s agricultural history and the unique qualities of the wines. Reviewers mention the stunning views and the relaxing pace, which makes it a perfect day for wine enthusiasts or those wanting to combine sightseeing with tasting. The tour provides a good balance of structured tastings and time to relax or explore.
Bottom Line: This tour is best suited for wine lovers who want to enjoy Victoria’s beautiful countryside along with excellent local wines, making it a worthwhile full-day escape.
4. Eat Like a Canadian Food & Sightseeing Tour
At number four, the Eat Like a Canadian Food & Sightseeing Tour offers a relaxed exploration of Victoria’s top culinary landmarks for about $59.30. This tour combines visits to Fisherman’s Wharf, the Inner Harbour, and Government Street, where you’ll sample 10 different dishes, including seafood, poutine, and local pastries.
This tour’s strength lies in its variety of local treats and the lively atmosphere of Victoria’s most iconic sites. The guide shares stories about Victoria’s history and culture, making the food tastings more meaningful. Reviewers appreciate the generous portions and the chance to try things like Nanaimo Bars and Canadian pizza. It’s a good choice if you prefer a shorter, more casual experience that still delivers a wide taste of Victoria’s flavors.
Bottom Line: This tour is perfect for travelers who want to sample a broad array of Canadian and local foods while exploring the city’s main sights in a fun, informal way.
5. Victoria Guided Food and History Tour
Finally, the Victoria Guided Food and History Tour comes in at number five. For $74.13, you get about two hours exploring Victoria’s top landmarks, including the Parliament Buildings, Fan Tan Alley, Bastion Square, and the Victoria Public Market. The tour offers enough tastings—including chocolate, tea, pierogi, and spring rolls—to serve as a solid lunch.
What makes this tour stand out is its comprehensive nature: it’s a blend of history, architecture, and culinary sampling. The guide is well-rated for being personable and knowledgeable, and reviews highlight the quality and variety of food, alongside interesting stories about Victoria’s development. It’s best suited for travelers who want a balanced mix of sightseeing and tasting without spending the whole day on it.
Bottom Line: This is an excellent choice for those who want a full picture of Victoria’s culture and cuisine in a manageable timeframe, with plenty of stories and bites.
$74.13 per person
How to Choose Your Food Tour in Victoria
When selecting your perfect food experience, consider your interests and schedule. If you’re short on time but crave a diverse taste of Victoria’s local scene, the Eat Like a Canadian Food & Sightseeing Tour is ideal. For history buffs and fans of multicultural food, the Hip & Hidden Chinatown + Old Town Food Tour offers a fascinating neighborhood perspective. If you’re eager to combine wine and scenery, the Indulge in a Wine & Food Tour provides a relaxing day in the countryside.
Budget-wise, all tours are fairly comparable, with prices ranging from about $59 to $125. Booking early is recommended, especially for popular tours like the Victoria Guided Food and History Tour, which has thousands of positive reviews. Think about how much time you want to dedicate—two hours or a full day—and whether you prefer a focus on history, multicultural cuisine, or wine.
Victoria’s food tours offer a flavorful way to discover the city’s hidden corners and local flavors. Whether you choose the intimate downtown walk, the historic Chinatown journey, or the scenic wine escape, you’ll leave with a better understanding of Victoria’s food culture—and a full belly. For best results, plan ahead and book early to secure your spot.