Victoria: The Ultimate Chocolate Tour

If you’re a chocolate enthusiast visiting Victoria, this Ultimate Chocolate Tour might just become a highlight of your trip. With a mix of tastings, storytelling, and a bit of local history, it promises a sweet escape through the city’s best chocolate spots. We’ve looked into this experience to give you an honest picture of what to expect, what’s worth your time, and who will enjoy it most.

Two things that really catch our eye about this tour are the variety of unique local chocolatiers you’ll visit and the educational element—learning how chocolate is made and the influence of French culture on Canadian sweets. That said, it’s not a super long tour, so it’s perfect for a relaxed afternoon. One thing to consider is the walking—this experience involves about 2-3 kilometers, including stairs, so it’s best suited for those comfortable on their feet. Overall, it’s a good pick for anyone with a sweet tooth looking for a taste of Victoria’s vibrant food scene.

Whether you’re a couple, a group of friends, or someone who just loves discovering local flavors, this tour offers a flavorful, fun experience. Just keep in mind it’s not ideal if you have severe dairy allergies or mobility issues. If you want a tasty, educational glimpse into Victoria’s love of chocolate, this could be just the thing.

Key Points

• Includes tastings from six local businesses, offering a variety of chocolates from rare bars to ice creams.
• Learn about chocolate’s history and cultural influences, especially French impact on Canadian sweets.
• Guided by a knowledgeable professional, who shares stories and insights along the way.
• Walk through Victoria’s charming downtown, combining sightseeing with delicious stops.
• Perfect for chocolate lovers and curious travelers wanting more than just a tasting.
• Family-friendly but requires walking; not suitable for guests with severe mobility impairments.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Walk Through Victoria’s Sweetest Stops

Let’s break down what you can expect from each part of this two-hour adventure. We’ll look at the stops, what makes them special, and how they contribute to a memorable experience.

Starting Point: The Chocolate Project

You’ll meet at the Chocolate Project, a local gem where the tour begins. Here, you get your first taste and a quick lesson on how chocolate is harvested and made—a good way to set the stage for all the tastings ahead. The staff have rare and hard-to-find chocolate bars, so you might find flavors you’ve never encountered before, which is a thrill for true chocolate lovers.

According to reviews, the guide Brenda is knowledgeable and enthusiastic, adding a personal touch to the experience. One traveler from the US mentioned, “We learned a lot of interesting facts from Brenda and the staff, and it was a great start to the tour.” This initial stop really helps you appreciate the craftsmanship behind each bite.

Strolling Along Downtown Victoria

After your first taste, the group takes a short walk along Blanshard and Fort Streets, soaking in Victoria’s lively atmosphere. Wandering this part of town gives a sense of the city’s charm, and it’s a perfect chance to work up an appetite for more chocolates.

Chocolate & Co

Next, you arrive at Chocolate & Co, a boutique shop where you sample a gourmet chocolate truffle and luxurious drinking chocolate. The drinking chocolate is a highlight, often described as rich and decadent, perfect for those who appreciate the finer things.

Reviewers rave about the variety and quality here. As one noted, “The food was exquisite and the chocolate was delicious. We loved the variety of places visited, and the samples were vastly different.” This stop emphasizes that you’re not just getting the same chocolate across the board—each piece is thoughtfully curated to showcase different styles and flavors.

More Great Tours Nearby

Quirky Macarons at Bon Macaron

Your sweet journey continues at Bon Macaron, where you’ll try some creatively flavored chocolate macarons. The quirky flavors add a playful element to the tour, appealing to those who enjoy a bit of fun with their sweets.

Chocolats Favoris

Next up is Chocolats Favoris, a Quebec-based chocolate shop famous for its ice cream dipped in chocolate sauce. This is often a crowd favorite, according to reviews, with visitors calling it a “chocolate wonderland.” It’s a great chance to indulge in a cold treat, especially if you’re visiting during warmer weather.

Canada’s Oldest Chocolatier: Rogers Chocolate

The tour then visits Rogers Chocolate, Canada’s oldest chocolatier. Here, you get to sample a trio of chocolates, including the iconic Victoria Cream. Knowing the history behind Rogers adds a layer of appreciation, especially since it’s been around long enough to see the evolution of Canadian chocolate making.

Ending at Off The Eaten Track

The tour wraps up at Off The Eaten Track’s tasting room, where you’ll sample a Nanaimo Bar, one of Canada’s most beloved desserts. This final treat leaves you with a satisfying sweet note and an understanding of regional specialties.

The Value of the Experience

At $65 per person, this tour offers a solid value considering it includes tastings from six local businesses and the insights shared by a professional guide. The tastings are generous, and the variety ensures you get a broad sense of Victoria’s chocolate scene.

While the price might seem a bit steep for just two hours, the quality and diversity of the stops justify the cost. Plus, with access to the “Eat Like a Local” discount card, you might find additional savings or special offers at participating shops.

What You’ll Love

• The variety of chocolates—from rare bars to ice cream—keeps things interesting.
• The knowledgeable guide Brenda (and others) make the walking part engaging with stories and background.
• The downtown walk gives you a chance to see the city while indulging your sweet tooth.
• The educational aspect about chocolate harvesting and French influence adds depth to the experience.

A Few Considerations

• The tour involves about 2-3 kilometers of walking, including stairs, so it’s best for those in good health and comfortable on their feet.
• It’s not suitable for travelers with severe dairy allergies due to the nature of the tastings.
• It’s a rain or shine activity, so come prepared with comfortable shoes and an umbrella if needed.

Authentic Feedback from Travelers

Many reviewers highlight the guide’s enthusiasm and variety of tastings. One from the US said, “Our tour guide was fabulous, and the food was exquisite. The samples were vastly different, making each stop a new adventure.” Another review from Canada praised Brenda, calling her “knowledgeable, fun, and enthusiastic,” reinforcing the idea that a good guide really enhances the experience.

A traveler who had a particularly funny moment shared that their wife declared she had too much chocolate—something they never expected to hear! That’s the kind of genuine enjoyment and surprise this tour can deliver.

Final Thoughts

This Victoria Chocolate Tour is a delightful way to combine sightseeing, learning, and indulging in some of the best local chocolates. It’s best suited for those who appreciate a mix of culture, history, and sweet treats, and who are comfortable walking for a couple of kilometers.

The experience’s strength lies in its variety—visiting well-loved shops, tasting rare chocolates, and hearing stories behind the treats. The guide’s enthusiasm and the quality of the tastings stand out, making it a memorable afternoon.

If you’re looking for a relaxed, fun activity that feeds your sweet tooth and gives you a taste of Victoria’s vibrant food scene, this tour is a solid choice. Just remember to wear comfy shoes and bring your curiosity—and maybe a reusable water bottle to stay refreshed.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour is generally fun and engaging, it involves walking and tasting chocolates that contain dairy, so it’s best for those who aren’t severely allergic or sensitive. Children who love chocolate and are comfortable with walking should enjoy it.

How much walking is involved?
The tour covers 2-3 kilometers on foot, including stairs. Comfortable shoes are recommended to enjoy the experience fully.

Are dietary restrictions accommodated?
The tour is not suitable for guests with severe dairy allergies. It’s unclear if specific dietary accommodations are available, so it’s best to inquire beforehand.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility if your schedule shifts.

What’s included in the price?
Your ticket covers a guided walking tour, tastings at six different local businesses, and access to an exclusive “Eat Like a Local” discount card.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchairs?
It is wheelchair accessible, although the walking involves some stairs and uneven surfaces.

When does the tour run?
Typically available in the afternoon, lasting about two hours. Exact times can be checked when booking.

In all, if you’re in Victoria with a craving for chocolate and a love for discovering local flavors, this tour offers a well-rounded, enjoyable experience. It blends the sweet, the educational, and the scenic—all in a friendly, relaxed atmosphere.

You can check availability for your dates here: