Charlottesville’s most worthwhile tours connect visitors with the region’s wine, food, and history. I love the private wine tours, which hit 3-4 carefully selected vineyards and include comfortable transportation – perfect for a stress-free day of tasting. The intimate Ghosts of Court Square walk brings local lore to life with fascinating stories about the city’s haunted past. Both Downtown Mall and UVA Corner food tours earn high marks for their mix of local flavors and historical insights. For something unique, the vintage VW wine tours add a fun twist to vineyard hopping. In my experience, the guides are consistently excellent and adaptable to group interests.
Let’s explore these top-rated Charlottesville tours in detail.
Key Points
- Private Custom Wine Tours offer a personalized and highly-rated exploration of Charlottesville’s local wineries, with transportation, guides, and optional picnic lunch.
- Ghosts of Court Square Tour provides a 1-hour, small-group experience showcasing Charlottesville’s haunted history and supernatural tales.
- Downtown Mall Food Tour offers a 2-hour culinary journey through the city’s acclaimed restaurants, featuring signature dishes and optional cocktails.
- Vintage VW Private Wine Tour allows guests to explore Virginia’s scenic vineyards in a unique vintage Volkswagen setting.
- Tour experiences in Charlottesville are generally well-rated, with positive reviews highlighting knowledgeable guides and immersive, flexible itineraries.
Virginia Private Custom Wine Tour From Charlottesville
Although Charlottesville is renowned for its stunning Blue Ridge Mountain scenery, the region’s winemaking heritage is equally captivating.
Travelers can enjoy this rich tradition through a private, customized wine tour from Charlottesville. Recommended by 100% of guests and boasting a 5.0-star rating, this excursion takes visitors to 3-4 local wineries, where they can sample the area’s finest vintages.
The relaxed journey along Virginia’s scenic Wine Trail is led by a knowledgeable private guide, who provides valuable insights and a personalized experience. Included in the tour are transportation from Charlottesville, chilled bottled water, and a Wine Trail Guide publication.
While tasting fees and alcohol aren’t included, a picnic lunch add-on is available. With daily departures at 11:00 am and convenient pickups within the Charlottesville area, this tour offers a truly immersive and memorable exploration of the region’s winemaking heritage.
Read our full review: Virginia Private Custom Wine Tour From Charlottesville Review
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Charlottesville: Ghosts of Court Square Walking Tour
Enjoy the haunting history of Charlottesville’s past on the Ghosts of Court Square Walking Tour.
This captivating 1-hour excursion takes you on a chilling journey through the city’s eerie and mysterious sites. Rated 5 out of 5 by previous participants, the tour explores the dark secrets and supernatural occurrences that have plagued Charlottesville’s Court Square over the years.
At just Kč 771 per person, this affordable activity offers excellent value.
Explore the area’s most haunted locations, listen to spine-tingling tales of the paranormal, and discover the city’s rich history. The tour’s small group size ensures an intimate and personalized experience.
Whether you’re a history buff or a thrill-seeker, the Ghosts of Court Square Walking Tour provides a unique and unforgettable glimpse into Charlottesville’s haunted past.
Read our full review: Charlottesville: Ghosts of Court Square Walking Tour Review
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Private Wine Tours (Minimum 3 & Maximum 6 ) Pickup Maximum 30 Mi
Offering private wine tours for groups of 3 to 6, this experience allows visitors to explore Virginia’s renowned Monticello Wine Trail in Charlottesville.
With a personalized itinerary based on group interests, the tour includes guided vineyard visits, wine tastings, and indoor games like UNO and Chinese Checkers. Guests can avoid the hassle of driving while enjoying multiple tastings and a convenient pickup from their hotel, airport, or other Charlottesville location.
The air-conditioned vehicle provides bottled water and soda, and dinner options are available. While alcoholic beverages can be purchased, the tour isn’t recommended for those with back problems, pregnant travelers, or serious medical conditions.
With an overall rating of 4.3 stars from 24 reviews, the experience receives praise for its friendly and knowledgeable drivers, as well as the flexibility in the itinerary. However, some concerns have been raised about the vehicle condition and miscommunications regarding private tour expectations.
Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour.
Read our full review: Private Wine Tours (Minimum 3 & Maximum 6 ) Pickup Maximum 30 Mi Review
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Charlottesville Dark History Ghost Tour
This Charlottesville Dark History Ghost Tour takes visitors on a thrilling exploration of the city’s eerie past. Priced from $31 per person, this 3.3/5 rated tour offers a well-researched look into the area’s haunted history.
Led by a local guide in a distinctive t-shirt and lantern, the tour departs from the Paramount Theater and ends at 200 Midmont Ln.
Accommodating up to 30 travelers, the ghost tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, with service animals allowed. A moderate fitness level is required, and the tour isn’t suitable for those with serious medical conditions.
Confirmed within 48 hours, the tour includes gratuity for the guide. Guests can expect thrilling stories of reported hauntings as they navigate Charlottesville’s haunted landmarks.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this tour offers a unique and spooky way to explore the city’s dark history.
Read our full review: Charlottesville Dark History Ghost Tour Review
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The Downtown Mall Food Tour
The Downtown Mall Food Tour in Charlottesville promises a delightful culinary experience. Priced at $419 per person, this 2-hour tour takes participants on a journey through the city’s vibrant downtown, visiting several acclaimed restaurants.
Starting at The Whiskey Jar and ending at Chaps Ice Cream, the tour allows guests to savor signature dishes and, for an additional fee, enjoy a signature cocktail.
The tour accommodates up to 8 travelers and isn’t wheelchair accessible, though service animals are welcome. Travelers should be in good health, as there are no major medical restrictions.
With a perfect 5-star rating based on 2 reviews, the tour has received praise for its knowledgeable guide, Amy, and the variety and quality of the food offerings.
Booking is available with a confirmation received immediately, and a lowest price guarantee is offered. Customers also have the option to reserve now and pay later.
Read our full review: The Downtown Mall Food Tour Review
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Vintage VW Private Wine Tour in Virginias Countryside
For those seeking a unique and immersive wine tasting experience in Charlottesville’s picturesque countryside, the Vintage VW Private Wine Tour is a must-try. This 5-star rated tour takes guests on a journey through Virginia’s scenic vineyards, exploring the region’s finest wines in the comfort of a vintage Volkswagen.
The tour includes flights or tastings at each location, as well as bottled water, snacks, and gratuity. While food is available, it’s not included in the package. The tour is private, so only your group will participate, and it starts and ends at a selected meeting point.
However, the tour may not be suitable for all travelers. It’s not wheelchair accessible, and it’s not recommended for those with back problems, pregnant women, or those with serious medical conditions.
But for most travelers, it’s an opportunity to enjoy a unique and memorable wine tasting experience in the heart of Charlottesville’s countryside.
Read our full review: Vintage VW Private Wine Tour in Virginias Countryside Review
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The UVA Corner Food Tour: Private Walking Food Tour in Charlottesville
Travelers exploring the historic city of Charlottesville can embark on the UVA Corner Food Tour, a private walking excursion that delves into the vibrant culinary scene of the University of Virginia’s iconic neighborhood.
The three-hour tour includes visits to five renowned local eateries, where guests can savor small plate samplings that amount to a full meal. Along the way, knowledgeable guides, like the second-year UVA student Cindy, share insights into Charlottesville’s rich history and culture.
Highlights include a stop at Bobo’s, a Lebanese fast food restaurant, and The White Spot for a signature “Gus burger.”
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible but is stroller-friendly. While vegetarian preferences are accommodated, gluten-free options are unavailable.
Read our full review: The UVA Corner Food Tour: Private Walking Food Tour in Charlottesville Review
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Sum Up
Charlottesville offers a variety of tours to suit different interests. From private wine tours to walking tours exploring the city’s history and cuisine, there’s something for all. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or simply want to experience the local culture, these tours provide an engaging and convenient way to explore the best of what Charlottesville has to offer.