Victoria , Canada

Downtown Victoria Food & City Tour

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(227 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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About this experience

On this fun and tasty tour we take you to our favorite hidden gems in the downtown core serving up delicious multi-cultural cuisine that is unique to Victoria led by a local foodie expert guide.

ON THE MENU: BC wine tasting, baked goods from one of Canada's best bakery, Middle Eastern street food, authentic Korean corn dogs, gourmet cheese, a decadent chocolate tasting, and French macarons. Samples may change depending on what restaurants are open. Please note this tour is a mix of savory and sweet samples

Make new friends, meet local business owners, hear stories about history, get amazing insider tips about where to eat next, and avoid tourist trap eateries with the help of a local guide.

VEGETARIANS WELCOME!

WHY DO THIS TOUR?
* You are an adventurous soul that wants to try new things
* You have a passion for finding small hard-to-find local businesses that aren't tourist driven
* You want a local authentic experience and want to eat food made by locals

Available options

Downtown Victoria Food & City Tour

What's included

Local guide

Professional guide

Food and drink tastings

Lunch

Detailed itinerary

Start the tour at this historic building built in 1924 by famous architect Francis Rattenbury.

Stop 2 Pass by

Learn more about one of the most iconic buildings in Victoria!

Stop 3 Pass by

Get acquainted with Victoria's award-winning hotel also known as a National Historic Site as you walk along the beautiful Inner Harbour.

Stop 4

The tour starts at this beautiful waterfront location and guests learn about its most famous buildings including the Parliament Building, The Empress Hotel, and the Steamship Building.

Learn about this historic live vaudeville theatre and its impact on the neighbourhood.

Stop 6 Pass by

Guided tour along historic street

Visit iconic cathedral with guided history and stories

Stop 8

Guests receive a quick guided tour of one of the most popular bustling streets in Victoria home to some of the oldest buildings in the city.

What's not included

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.7

65 reviews

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Tripadvisor 4.8

162 reviews

5★

146

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Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

A moderate amount of walking is involved including some standing. Not all restaurants have seating available and the tour has about 3--40 minutes of light walking.; comfortable shoes are recommended

Please dress according to weather conditions

Please advise any specific dietary requirements including vegetarian requests a minimum of 24 hours before the tour commences.

Infant meals not included

Vegetarian option is available, please advise at time of booking if required

Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately

Tour is suitable for vegetarians. Must be requested prior to tour starting a minimum of 24 hours before tour starts.

Meeting point

We are on the main floor of the Steamship Terminal Building. We have a gift shop inside, next to the Steamship Grill & Bar Restaurant. Please go inside our gift shop to check-in with the staff.

Important notes

Please email us at info@offtheeatentracktours.ca to confirm any food allergies or to request the vegetarian option. Please note we need to know of any allergies or vegetarian option 24 hours before tour starts so we can make arrangements with our food tour partners.

About Victoria

Victoria, the capital of British Columbia, is renowned for its stunning gardens, historic architecture, and vibrant arts scene. Nestled on the southern tip of Vancouver Island, it offers a charming blend of British heritage and West Coast natural beauty.

Top Attractions

Butchart Gardens

The Butchart Gardens is a stunning collection of floral display gardens, featuring a variety of themed gardens and seasonal blooms.

Nature 2-3 hours $34.95

Royal BC Museum

The Royal BC Museum offers a comprehensive look at the natural and human history of British Columbia through interactive exhibits and artifacts.

Museum 2-3 hours $27

Parliament Buildings

The Parliament Buildings are a stunning example of neoclassical architecture and the seat of the British Columbia government.

Historical 1-2 hours Free (tours may require reservations)

Fisherman's Wharf

Fisherman's Wharf is a bustling waterfront area filled with colorful floating homes, fresh seafood, and unique shops.

Cultural 1-2 hours Free to explore

Fisgard Lighthouse

Fisgard Lighthouse is a historic lighthouse marking the entrance to the Victoria Harbour. It is one of the oldest lighthouses on the West Coast of Canada.

Historical 1-2 hours Free (Fort Rodd Hill has an admission fee)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Spot Prawns

Spot prawns are a local delicacy, often served grilled, poached, or in pasta dishes. They are sweet, tender, and a must-try for seafood lovers.

Main Course Contains shellfish

Saskatoon Berry Pie

Saskatoon berry pie is a sweet and tangy dessert made with local Saskatoon berries, reminiscent of blueberries but with a unique flavor.

Dessert Vegetarian (check for dairy content)

Artisan Craft Beer

Victoria is home to a thriving craft beer scene, with numerous breweries offering a wide range of local and unique brews.

Drink Contains gluten

Popular Activities

Hiking Kayaking Whale watching Spa treatments Beachcombing Picnicking Museum visits Art gallery tours

Best Time to Visit

June to August

Summer is the peak tourist season in Victoria, with warm temperatures and long daylight hours. This is the best time to enjoy outdoor activities and festivals.

15°C to 25°C 59°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: English, French, Chinese
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Canadian Dollar (CAD)

Time Zone

PST (GMT-8) / PDT (GMT-7) (Daylight Saving Time observed)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Victoria is generally a safe city for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any destination, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
• Use licensed taxis or rideshare services.
• Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night.

Getting there

By air

Victoria International Airport • 20 km from city center

By train

Victoria Station

By bus

Victoria Coach Station

Getting around

Public transport

BC Transit operates an extensive bus network throughout Victoria, making it easy to get around without a car.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Downtown Oak Bay James Bay Fernwood

Day trips

Sidney

20 km from Victoria • Half day

Sidney is a charming seaside village known for its beautiful waterfront, historic buildings, and vibrant arts scene. It's a great place to explore local shops, galleries, and cafes.

Butchart Gardens

25 km from Victoria • Half day

The Butchart Gardens is a stunning collection of floral display gardens, featuring a variety of themed gardens and seasonal blooms. It's one of the most popular attractions near Victoria.

Goldstream Provincial Park

20 km from Victoria • Half day to full day

Goldstream Provincial Park is a beautiful natural area featuring waterfalls, hiking trails, and diverse wildlife. It's a great place for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Festivals

Victoria Day Celebration • May (weekend) Victoria Film Festival • February Victoria Fringe Festival • August

Pro tips

Visit the Butchart Gardens in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the gardens at their best.
Take a stroll along the Dallas Road Waterfront Walkway for stunning views of the ocean and Olympic Mountains.
Explore the historic Chinatown and visit the Fan Tan Alley, the narrowest alley in Canada.
Try the famous fish and chips at Red Fish Blue Fish or the local craft beer at a nearby brewery.
Visit the Royal BC Museum to learn about the natural and human history of British Columbia.