Victoria full day tour + Butchart Gardens

This full day tour offers all the best of city highlights, the renowned Butchart Gardens and offers layers of “local living” all at a lovely pace.

This fully narrated tour will cover all the major highlights with time to explore interiors of some buildings, gardens, some of Victoria’s most beautiful neighborhoods and spectacular ocean views.

Vistoria is rich in history, architecture and stories of the people who influenced the making of this charming city today. You’ll hear of the Lekwungen people, our first nations, early European settlers and the event that changed the landscape here and evolved into the charming city Victoria is today.

Price: $810cad (this is a group price, not per person)

Capacity: vehicle seats 6 people comfortably

Tour duration: 7-8 hours

What’s included: private transportation and professional tour guide

What’s not included: personal expenses, food and beverage, and admission to Butchart Gardens or Craigdarroch Castle

Butchart Garden admission is $39.50/adult (2023) gates close early April – May and Sept -Oct
Craigdarroch Castle admission is $20/adult (this is an approximate price and hours of operations are typically Wednesday to Sunday. NOTE: There are 5 floors to tour and no elevators

The best time to start this tour is around 9:00 am or earlier

ITINERARY

The order of this itinerary may vary depending on your pick location. There is a mix of walking and driving, please let me know if there are any mobile issues so we can make adjustments.

We will begin at Thunderbird park where you will view ancient and modern story poles and learn about our First Nations history and the role the Canadian government played.
We’ll then explore the Inner Harbour – the hub of the city, see the BC Legislative building (exterior only), the Empress Hotel and learn about Victoria’s most famous architect Francis Rattenbury – there’s a tale of adultry, betrayal and murder.

A wander up through Government street will give us some opportunity to see some historic shops and pubs as we make our way to Bastion Square – the location where Fort Victoria once stood.

From there you’ll learn about the event that changed the landscape of the area in 1848, make our way through the old town, and finalize our walking tour in historic Chinatown. Our chinese community has a fascinating history and this Chinatown is the oldest in Canada. We will also wander through the infamous Fan Tan Alley.

An additional portion of this tour will take us through the beautiful neighborhood of Rockland with is stately mansions while we make our way to see the Craigdarroch Castle. A baronial style mansion built in 1908 by coal baron Robert Dunsmuir. Viewing the interior is something I do recommend but is dependant on hours of operation. Note there are five floors and no elevators.

Then we will drive through the estate of the Lt. Governer General of BC (the provincial representative of the crown) before heading to the Marina Restaurant for a lovely lunch.

Our last or first stop is the wonderful Butchart Gardens – we will take 1 to 1. 5 hours to explore the gardens. Depending on what time of day we are here, I may recommend lunch at the former home of Jennie and Robert Butchart.

NOTE: If you have mobility issues, I recommend pre-renting a scooter. The gardens provide wheelchairs but they can be quite difficult to manouver through the grounds.

If time is permitting we may visit the following locations:
Beacon Hill Park, worlds tallest totem pole, and Mile Zero with a tribute to Canadian legend Terry Fox, and Fisherman’s Wharf, a quirky neighborhood of colorful float homes.

TOUR ADD-ON OPTIONS

If you would like to add in a wine and/or cider tasting please let me know and we will make adjustments to the itinerary as necessary.

GALLERY

FAQs

What is included in the Victoria Full Day Tour?

The tour includes Victoria’s most popular attractions such as Butchart Gardens, Craigdarroch Castle, Inner Harbour, Chinatown, Fisherman’s Wharf, and scenic coastal routes. Guests will also enjoy sightseeing stops, hidden gems, and stories about Victoria’s history and culture.

How long is the Victoria Full Day Tour?

This is a 7-hour private tour, giving you a full day to explore Victoria’s highlights and unique local experiences.

Is the Victoria Full Day Tour private?

Yes. The tour is completely private and tailored for your group only.

Can the Victoria Full Day Tour be customized?

Yes. While the tour covers major highlights, there is flexibility to customize the itinerary based on your preferences, interests, and pace.

Are meals included in the Victoria Full Day Tour?

Meals are not included, but the itinerary allows time to enjoy local dining experiences or add options such as afternoon tea or a picnic lunch.