Vancouver’s drinking scene shines through expertly guided tours that make the most of your time and money. The city’s craft beer explosion has sparked excellent brewery tours, particularly in the East Vancouver “Yeast Van” district. Walking pub crawls through Gastown offer the best mix of history and local brews, while North Vancouver’s “Ship and Sips” combine scenic ferry rides with brewery hopping.
I especially love the Craft Beer ‘n Bites tour for its perfect mix of food pairings and beer tasting. The Granville Island brewery walks – though touristy – give you great value with generous samples and behind-the-scenes access.
For active travelers, the “Hike and Hops” tours connecting North Shore trails with local taprooms are a refreshing twist on traditional beer tours. All recommended tours include safe transportation and knowledgeable guides who know their stuff.
Let’s explore Vancouver’s top drinking tours.
Good To Know
- Vancouver offers a vibrant nightlife with a variety of local breweries, wineries, and distilleries, providing diverse drinking tour options.
- Popular tour types include brewery tours, wine tours, distillery tours, cocktail tours, and walking tours, catering to various group sizes and preferences.
- Unique experiences like the Behind-the-Scenes Tour, local-led tours, and adventure-combined tours (e.g., Stawamus Chief Hike and Brewery Tasting) provide distinctive experiences.
- Highly-rated tours with excellent reviews, such as the Gastown Pub Crawl, Craft Brewery Tour, and Brewery Tour of Sunshine Coast, offer personalized service and high satisfaction.
- Tours typically include tastings, food pairings, transportation, and souvenirs, with prices ranging from $25 to $500, and accessibility features for small groups and individuals with disabilities.
Vancouver Behind-the-Scenes Brewery Tour
The Vancouver Behind-the-Scenes Brewery Tour offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the city’s thriving craft beer scene.
With a badge of excellence and an impressive 99% recommendation rate, this tour takes small groups to three highly rated breweries, providing VIP access and priority seating.
Guests can expect an exclusive behind-the-scenes experience, avoiding lines and sampling a variety of locally crafted brews.
The tour includes transportation, all beer samples, and a souvenir beer glass.
Knowledgeable and friendly guides offer insights into brewing techniques and local beer culture, ensuring a memorable experience.
While the tour is on the pricier side, most travelers agree it’s well worth the cost for the exclusive access and exceptional service.
Read our full review: Vancouver Behind-the-Scenes Brewery Tour Review
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Vancouver Craft Brewery Tour Led by a Local
Explore Vancouver’s burgeoning craft beer scene on this local-led brewery tour. Rated 96% by travelers, this 4-hour excursion takes you to off-the-beaten-path breweries.
Sip four 4-ounce tastings at each stop while your knowledgeable guide shares insights. With a maximum of 14 guests, you’ll enjoy a personalized experience away from downtown crowds.
The tour includes all taxes, fees, and gratuities, plus a custom pickup service. Finish where you started, across from Lyons Pub.
Most travelers can participate, but the tour reserves the right to refuse service to intoxicated individuals. With 72 reviews and a Badge of Excellence, this craft brewery tour is a must for beer enthusiasts visiting Vancouver.
Read our full review: Vancouver Craft Brewery Tour Led by a Local Review
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Gastown Pub Crawl
This vibrant Gastown Pub Crawl takes travelers on a lively exploration of Vancouver’s historic and lively Gastown district.
Boasting a stellar 5.0 rating from over 96 reviews, this tour promises an unforgettable evening of unique bar experiences and meeting like-minded people.
For just $25.53 per person, guests will enjoy one free shot at each bar and free cover at all venues.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is suitable for most travelers, though those with certain medical conditions should exercise caution.
Though some reviews note communication issues and changes in venues, the majority of travelers report positive experiences, making this an excellent choice for those seeking a fun night out in Vancouver.
Read our full review: Gastown Pub Crawl Review
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3-Hour Walking Tour – Vancouvers Street Art and Craft Beer Scene
Shifting gears from the lively Gastown pub crawl, the 3-hour Vancouver’s Street Art and Craft Beer Walking Tour offers a captivating exploration of the city’s vibrant artistic and brewing scenes.
Guests will sample local craft beers, visit colorful neighborhoods, and gain behind-the-scenes access at Beaumont Art Studios. Knowledgeable guides share their passion for the city’s art and beer, providing personalized recommendations and tips.
With maximum group sizes of 12, the tour promises an intimate and informative experience. Guests rave about the guides’ expertise and the tour’s unique and authentic perspective on Vancouver.
At just $84.99, this special offer provides excellent value for the 5-star rated experience.
Read our full review: 3-Hour Walking Tour – Vancouvers Street Art and Craft Beer Scene Review
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Brewery Tour of the Sunshine Coast
The Brewery Tour of the Sunshine Coast offers a private, half-day excursion for craft beer enthusiasts. This highly-rated tour, with 34 reviews and a 100% recommendation rate, is ideal for special occasions like birthdays and bachelor(ette) parties.
The tour includes visits to several top breweries and cidermakers in the Sunshine Coast region, with a flexible itinerary that allows for customization. Comfortable transportation is provided in a private, air-conditioned vehicle, and the tour includes lunch, snacks, and bottled water.
Alcoholic beverages are available for purchase at the participants’ own expense. The tour starts at the Langdale Ferry Terminal and ends back at the same location, with a scenic 40-minute ferry ride to the Sunshine Coast.
Read our full review: Brewery Tour of the Sunshine Coast Review
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Stawamus Chief Hike & Local Brewery Tasting
Adventurous travelers visiting Vancouver can embark on the Stawamus Chief Hike & Local Brewery Tasting, a thrilling excursion that combines a challenging trail ascent with a rewarding local brewery experience.
This private tour, priced at $171.40 per person, promises breathtaking views from the trail and an enjoyable brewery tasting. Although the hike isn’t recommended for those with medical conditions or limited physical fitness, the knowledgeable guides provide support and ensure a safe, memorable journey.
With a maximum of 5 travelers, this tour offers a personalized experience complete with private transportation and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Reviewers rave about the beautiful scenery and excellent brewery experience, making this tour a must-try for adventure-seekers in Vancouver.
Read our full review: Stawamus Chief Hike & Local Brewery Tasting Review
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Private Tour: Vancouver Craft Beer Tasting Tour
This private tour offers beer enthusiasts a chance to explore Vancouver’s vibrant craft beer scene. Priced from $308.78 per person, the 4-hour tour visits four acclaimed microbreweries, including Steel Toad Brewery, 33 Acres Brewing Company, Red Truck Beer Company, and Main Street Brewing Company.
Each stop provides a 1-hour admission ticket, allowing ample time to sample the local brews. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, all taxes and fees, a driver/guide, and gratuities.
Wheelchair accessibility and government-issued ID requirements ensure an inclusive experience. With a perfect 5-star rating from previous participants, this craft beer tasting tour is a must for anyone seeking an immersive introduction to Vancouver’s thriving beer culture.
Read our full review: Private Tour: Vancouver Craft Beer Tasting Tour Review
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Vancouver Craft Brewery Tour
Explore Vancouver’s thriving craft beer scene on this engaging brewery tour. The tour includes visits to several of the city’s top craft breweries, led by an informative, friendly, and professional guide.
With a maximum of 13 travelers, you’ll enjoy personalized service as you sample a variety of local beers. The tour includes all tasting and venue fees, as well as complimentary snacks, refreshments, and bottled water.
Pickup and drop-off are provided from a designated meeting point, and the tour is accessible by public transportation. Participants must be at least 19 years old and able to stand for extended periods.
Advance booking is recommended to secure your spot on this popular tour.
Read our full review: Vancouver Craft Brewery Tour Review
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Full Day Best of Vancouver Private City Tour and Beer Tasting
Embarking on a comprehensive exploration of Vancouver, this private city tour and beer tasting experience offers visitors an immersive glimpse into the vibrant culture and local flavors of the city.
Priced from $495.96 per person, the full-day tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, live commentary, and admission to several renowned breweries.
Highlights range from iconic Stanley Park and Granville Island to the vibrant Chinatown and historic Gastown.
With a private limo and knowledgeable guide, travelers can customize the itinerary to their preferences.
While food and admission to other attractions are excluded, the tour provides an excellent overview of Vancouver’s top sights and award-winning craft beers.
Read our full review: Full Day Best of Vancouver Private City Tour and Beer Tasting Review
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Night Vancouver (Music,Bars,Clubs & Casino)
Visitors to Vancouver can enjoy the city’s vibrant nightlife on this private tour.
Offered by Globalduniya, the Night Vancouver tour takes guests to the city’s hottest music venues, bars, clubs, and casinos.
The tour includes an air-conditioned vehicle, a professional driver and guide, and amenities like bottled water, Wi-Fi, and Spotify.
Photo stops are allowed, and the tour can be customized to the group’s preferences.
Prices start at €296.80 per person, with a lowest price guarantee.
Pickup is available from select locations, and the tour duration may vary.
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the experience, and infants can be accommodated.
Read our full review: Night Vancouver (Music,Bars,Clubs & Casino) Review
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The Sum Up
Vancouver’s vibrant beer culture offers a diverse range of brewery tours and pub crawls. From behind-the-scenes brewery experiences to craft beer tasting tours, visitors can explore the city’s thriving beer scene. Whether you’re interested in street art, local pubs, or the Sunshine Coast, there’s a tour to suit your preferences. With so many options, you’re sure to find the best drinking tour to suit your interests in Vancouver.