Victoria is a city that takes its craft beverages seriously. Known for its vibrant craft brewing scene, Victoria offers more than just pretty views — it’s a hub for innovative beers, spirits, and memorable experiences. We particularly like the Victoria Craft Brewery Tour because it combines a lively social atmosphere with visits to some of the newest and most creative breweries around.
Imagine tasting rare brews like Victoria’s latest experimental beers at Herald Street Brew Works or enjoying German-style lagers at Moon Under Water.
Plus, the fact that all transport is included means you can focus on savoring the flavors without worrying about driving. If you’re interested in exploring multiple facets of Victoria’s drink scene, this tour is a great pick.
For those who want a broader taste of Victoria’s craft alcohol scene, including spirits and behind-the-scenes insights, the Victoria Craft Beer and Distillery Tour offers a well-rounded 3.5-hour experience with visits to a distillery and two breweries.
And if your idea of a perfect day combines outdoor activity with a cold pint, the East Sooke Park Coastal Hiking Tour with a Bite and Beer blends invigorating nature walks with relaxing pub visits — perfect for active travelers who also want to enjoy local flavor.
Quick Overview
The list includes three distinct tours that showcase Victoria’s drinking scene in different ways. The Victoria Craft Brewery Tour focuses solely on craft beers at three local breweries, with tastings included (details here). The Victoria Craft Beer and Distillery Tour takes you behind the scenes at a brewery and distillery, offering a mix of spirits and craft beers (see more).
Lastly, the East Sooke Park Coastal Hiking Tour with a Bite and Beer combines outdoor exploration with pub stops, ideal for those wanting outdoor activity with a casual drink (check it out).
1. Victoria Craft Brewery Tour
At number one, the Victoria Craft Brewery Tour stands out for its focus on Victoria’s burgeoning craft beer scene. This 3-hour tour takes you to three different breweries, with a flight of four samples at each stop. It’s perfect if you want to taste a wide variety of beers while learning about how they’re made.
The tour includes all transportation, so you can relax and focus on the experience, rather than juggling taxis or driving.
What makes this tour unique is its intimate approach. You’ll meet local brewers and learn about their brewing philosophies firsthand. Herald Street Brew Works offers beers that you likely won’t find anywhere else, as they specialize in one-off, experimental brews — a true highlight. Moon Under Water delivers classic German ales and lagers, along with a playful Creepy Uncle Dunkel.
Guests consistently praise the tour for its relaxed atmosphere and knowledgeable guides. One reviewer noted, “Everyone that we met was great and accommodating,” highlighting the friendly vibe.
Bottom Line: This tour is ideal for craft beer lovers wanting a relaxed, social experience with access to some of Victoria’s most interesting brews. It offers excellent value at $89.08, especially with all transport included.
2. Victoria Craft Beer and Distillery Tour
Coming in second, the Victoria Craft Beer and Distillery Tour takes a broader approach, blending beer and spirits with a focus on the local production process. This 3.5-hour tour includes visits to Ile Sauvage Brewing, Macaloney’s Island Distillery & Twa Dogs Brewery, and Herald Street Brew Works.
It’s the perfect choice if you want to see the diverse craft beverage scene of Victoria and learn how the products are crafted.
The tour stands out because it combines behind-the-scenes looks at the production process with tastings of both beers and spirits. Ile Sauvage specializes in wild, sour, and experimental beers, offering a bold flavor journey.
At Macaloney’s, you’ll explore award-winning single malt whiskies and Irish-style spirits, blending tradition with West Coast innovation. The relaxed pace allows plenty of time for questions and discussions, making it a great choice for curious drinkers.
Guests have raved about the experience, with one reviewer calling it “an amazing beer experience,” especially appreciating the variety of tastings and the guide’s extensive knowledge. Priced at $111.35, it offers good value for those seeking a comprehensive look at Victoria’s craft scene.
Bottom Line: This tour is best suited for those wanting a fuller picture of Victoria’s craft alcohol scene, combining beer with spirits, all within a comfortable and informative setting.
3. East Sooke Park Coastal Hiking Tour with a Bite and Beer
At number three, the East Sooke Park Coastal Hiking Tour with a Bite and Beer combines outdoor adventure with casual pub visits. It’s a six-hour experience that begins with a scenic drive from downtown Victoria to East Sooke Park. The small group size (up to 8 people) ensures a personal experience as you hike through lush rainforest and along rugged coastlines, with spectacular ocean views.
What sets this tour apart is the combination of nature and local flavor. After a three-hour hike, you’ll visit a historic local pub renowned for its character and charm. Enjoy light fare and a pint, sharing stories with fellow hikers. The tour ends with a return to Victoria, giving you a well-rounded day of activity and relaxation.
Reviews mention the “amazing beer” and the “personalized” experience, though some note the longer length might be tiring for less active travelers.
Priced at $129.59, this tour is ideal for active travelers who want to combine hiking with local drinking in a small, intimate group setting.
Bottom Line: Perfect for outdoor lovers eager to experience East Sooke Park’s rugged beauty while enjoying local beers in a relaxed pub atmosphere.
How to Choose the Perfect Drinking Tour in Victoria
When selecting a drinking tour, consider your priorities—whether you want to focus solely on craft beers, explore both beers and spirits, or combine outdoor activity with casual drinks. If your main goal is to sample diverse, innovative beers without the hassle of transport, the Victoria Craft Brewery Tour is a solid choice.
For a more comprehensive look at Victoria’s craft scene, including distilleries, the Victoria Craft Beer and Distillery Tour is ideal.
If you’re an active traveler who enjoys hiking and wants to combine outdoor adventure with local breweries, the East Sooke Park Coastal Hiking Tour with a Bite and Beer offers a memorable experience — just be prepared for a longer day.
Plus, consider your budget, fitness level, and how much time you want to dedicate. Tours range from 3 to 6 hours, and prices vary accordingly. Booking early is advisable, especially during peak season, to secure your spot.
Final Thoughts
Victoria offers a variety of drinking tours that cater to different interests and activity levels. Whether you’re a craft beer enthusiast, a spirits lover, or an outdoor adventurer, there’s an experience that suits you.
The top picks include the lively and informative Victoria Craft Brewery Tour, the comprehensive Victoria Craft Beer and Distillery Tour, and the outdoor-focused East Sooke Park Coastal Hiking Tour.
For a fun, relaxed introduction to Victoria’s lively craft scene, the brewery tour is hard to beat. If you want to explore both beer and spirits with a knowledgeable guide, the second tour offers great value. And for those who love combining nature with a casual drink, the hiking tour provides a memorable outdoor experience.
Whatever your style, booking early will ensure you don’t miss out on these popular experiences. Cheers to a great trip!