The Victoria Chocolate & Bakery Tour

If you’re visiting Victoria and have a soft spot for chocolate, baked goods, or just enjoy a leisurely walk with tasty rewards, the Victoria Chocolate & Bakery Tour promises a delightful two hours of exploring some of the city’s best chocolatiers and bakeries. It’s a specially curated experience that combines sweet indulgence with a bit of local history and architecture. Perfect for those with an appetite for treats and a curiosity for how Victoria’s culinary scene has evolved, this tour offers a well-balanced mix of tasting, sightseeing, and storytelling.

Two things truly stand out about this tour: first, the knowledgeable guides who share insightful stories about chocolate-making and Victoria’s historic sites; second, the variety of delicious treats, from rare chocolates to freshly baked pastries. That said, it’s not a very long tour—just two hours—so it’s best suited for travelers who enjoy walking and have a moderate level of physical fitness. One aspect to consider is that the tour involves about 35-40 minutes of outside walking and some stairs, so comfortable shoes are a must.

This experience appeals most to visitors who love sweets, local history buffs, and those wanting a relaxed, tasty way to explore Victoria’s downtown. Families, couples, or solo travelers will find it engaging, especially if they enjoy learning about local artisans and heritage buildings while indulging in chocolate.

Key Points

• Taste a variety of chocolates including rare bars, decadent truffles, and Canadian favorites.
• Learn about the chocolate-making process from a world-renowned judge, adding depth to the tasting experience.
• Experience Victoria’s historic sites as part of the walk, including the iconic Legislature Building and St. Andrew’s Cathedral.
• Visit the oldest chocolate shop in Canada for a taste of tradition with the Victoria Cream.
• Enjoy a savory stop with homemade Mole sauce on a taco, offering an unexpected twist to the sweet journey.
• Walk at a leisurely pace with a small group of up to 12 travelers, ensuring personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting at The Chocolate Project, the tour kicks off with a visit to one of Victoria’s innovative chocolatiers. This is where you’ll get your first taste of some rare chocolate bars and hear about the intricate process of chocolate production, led by a judge recognized worldwide. This element elevates the experience from just tasting to learning, making each bite more meaningful.

Next, the tour makes a quick but memorable stop at La Taquisa, a local Mexican-inspired spot where you can sample homemade Mole sauce on a taco. This savory twist adds a layer of variety and shows Victoria’s culinary diversity beyond just sweets.

Wandering along Blanshard and Fort Streets, you’ll pass some of Victoria’s most beautiful historic buildings, including the stunning St. Andrew’s Cathedral. Our guide shares engaging stories about the architecture and history of these landmarks, giving you a richer understanding of Victoria’s past while walking.

The next highlight is Chocolat & Co, where award-winning chocolatier David Booth creates luxurious drinking chocolate and decadent truffles. This stop is often praised for its rich flavors and the chance to sample chocolates crafted with a real touch of artistry and passion.

Then, the tour visits two bakeries—OSO and Bon Macaron—where the focus shifts to baked treats. You might find yourself biting into a freshly baked chocolate croissant at OSO, which is noted for its unique texture and flavor, or sampling a variety of delicious chocolate macarons from Bon Macaron, a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

The journey continues to Rogers Chocolates, the oldest chocolate shop in Canada, where they serve up famous chocolates like the Victoria Cream. Sampling from this historic shop adds a sense of tradition and authenticity to your tasting experience.

Finally, the tour concludes inside the Steamship Terminal, a historic building with a charming ambiance, where you’ll indulge in a classic Canadian dessert—the Nanaimo Bar. This sweet end cap wraps up the experience on a satisfying note.

What Makes This Tour Special

We loved how this tour balances culinary delights with cultural insights. The guide’s knowledge and storytelling enrich each stop, transforming simple tastings into memorable lessons about Victoria’s food scene and history. The small group size makes for an intimate experience, allowing for plenty of interaction and personalized attention.

The variety of treats offered is impressive—ranging from rare chocolates to baked goods—making it suitable for most palates. The sampling of Victoria’s oldest chocolatier and the chance to taste award-winning drinking chocolate are particular highlights that set this tour apart.

However, it’s worth noting that the cost of around $71 per person reflects a premium experience, especially given the number of tastings involved. For serious chocolate lovers, it’s a good value; casual visitors might find it slightly pricey but still worthwhile for the quality and depth of the experience.

Practical Considerations

The tour starts at 1311 Blanshard Street at 2 p.m. and lasts approximately 2 hours, covering about 1 mile of walking. You should be prepared for light outdoor walking and wear comfortable shoes. Since the ending point is about a 20-minute walk from the starting location, you might want to plan your visit accordingly or consider public transportation for convenience.

The tour is small, with a maximum of 12 travelers, fostering a friendly and relaxed atmosphere. It’s suitable for those with moderate physical fitness, and since it involves about 35-40 minutes outside, dressing appropriately for the weather is wise.

Booking in advance is recommended, as this tour is popular and typically booked 16 days ahead. The free cancellation policy offers flexibility, which is helpful if your plans change unexpectedly.

Authentic Reviews from Participants

Several past participants have praised the tour highly. One reviewer said, “This was a fabulous tour with a great variety of treats and a lovely guide,” emphasizing the diversity of tastings and engaging commentary. Another called it “fun and enjoyable,” highlighting how much they learned about chocolate and Victoria’s sights while walking.

Diane appreciated the pleasant nature of the tour, noting how the walking and tasting made for a relaxing experience, and enjoyed gaining insights into Victoria’s history while sampling.

The Sum Up: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This Victoria Chocolate & Bakery Tour is ideal for food lovers, especially those with a sweet tooth, who want both culinary indulgence and cultural context. It’s perfect for curious travelers eager to learn about local artisans and historical landmarks while enjoying some of the best chocolates Victoria has to offer.

Families with children who enjoy treats, couples celebrating, or solo visitors looking for a relaxed, informative experience will find this tour delightful. It’s also well suited for those who appreciate small-group intimacy and quality tastings.

If you’re after a fun, flavorful, and educational way to spend a couple of hours in Victoria, this tour offers genuine value, memorable treats, and a taste of the city’s sweet side.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not specifically marketed for children, kids who enjoy sweets and are comfortable walking for about an hour should find it enjoyable, especially given the variety of treats.

Are the tastings included in the price?
Yes, the tour price covers all the chocolate and bakery treats you’ll sample during the walk.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 2 hours, including walking and tasting stops.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at 1311 Blanshard Street and ends at the Steamship Terminal at 913 Government Street, about a 20-minute walk apart.

Is this tour wheelchair accessible?
The tour involves light walking outside and some stairs, so it’s best suited for those with moderate mobility.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, there’s a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Do I need to bring anything?
Bring a water bottle, especially since the tour does not provide water. Dress comfortably for outdoor walking.

Are gratuities included?
No, tips for the guide are not included; tipping is appreciated if you enjoyed the experience.

What is the maximum group size?
Limited to 12 travelers, ensuring a personal and engaging experience.

Is transportation provided between stops?
No, this is a walking tour, so be prepared for some light outdoor walking.

In all, the Victoria Chocolate & Bakery Tour offers a delicious way to explore the city, combining culinary delights with charming sights and stories. Whether you’re a dedicated chocoholic or just looking for a fun way to discover Victoria’s flavors, this tour delivers a satisfying mix of taste, history, and scenic beauty.