victoria canada excursions

You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser to improve your experience.

Excursions & Tours

Victoria Whale Watching Tour

Downtown Food And Victoria City Tour

Victoria's Modern Chinatown Eats and History Tour

Victoria Castle and City Sightseeing

Victoria's Eat Like a Canadian Tour

Victoria's Legendary Bike Experience

Private City Tour with Butchart Gardens

Private Full-Day Ultimate Experience of Victoria

Victoria bc tours & shore excursions, victoria bc tours and excursions.

Explore the capital of British Columbia with Shore Excursions Group as we travel to Victoria, located not too far from Vancouver. An urban center with a thriving technology center, Victoria, known as the "City of Gardens," is a beautifully relaxing city full of lush greenery that is popular with boaters and retirees alike because of its tranquil and beautiful elements.

Our Victoria tours allow you to take full advantage of this city's relaxing nature. Discover Victoria's beauty with a sightseeing tour of the city, or tours of the famous Butchart Gardens. To gain alternate perspectives of the city, tours are available both during the day and at night, when the city and its gardens are illuminated by lights.

Victoria is a picture-perfect city like no other in North America. Widely referred to as the "City of Gardens" and North America's "most English" city, Victoria, British Columbia is grounded in old Victorian architecture and fueled by an increasingly modern and vibrant culture. Victoria is truly a destination for visitors of eclectic tastes, as it features a combination of nostalgic pubs, trendy coffee bars, innovative eateries, and brightly painted bohemian shops. The city's metropolitan atmosphere gives a nod to the customs of old-time England, while remaining fresh, progressive, and exciting.

With our Victoria shore excursions and tours, you can spend your day or the entire duration of your trip surrounded by natural beauty in the city's lush gardens, relaxing coastal shores, and bike trails or explore its rich history on various tours and sightseeing adventures. Our collection of Victoria cruise excursions ensures you will have a vacation just as memorable and exciting as the city itself!

• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar
• Skip to footer

Must Do Canada

The Best Things to Do in Canada

16 of the Best Victoria Tours

May 23, 2023 By Matthew G. Bailey Leave a Comment

Sharing is caring!

If you’re looking for the best Victoria tours, you’ve come to the right place!

Located on lovely Vancouver Island, Victoria is the capital of British Columbia and one of the most beautiful cities in Canada. Surrounded by rainforest and the Pacific Ocean, Victoria is the perfect place for quaint city exploration or outdoor adventure.

We’ve been to Victoria many times and have explored much of Vancouver Island . From whale-watching tours to culinary tours, walking tours, and more, there’s always something fun to do in this charming west coast city.

So whether you’re looking for the best transportation from Vancouver to Victoria, or truly looking to explore Victoria for multiple days, here are the best 16 Victoria tours…

Victoria Tours Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links, which means when you make a purchase, we get a small commission. Affiliate links cost you nothing to use and they help keep these travel guides free. It’s a win-win! For more information, visit our  privacy policy.

Don’t have time to read the entire Victoria Tours article? These are our four favourite tours overall:

• Best Whale-Watching Tour : If there’s one activity in Victoria that you shouldn’t miss, it’s a whale-watching tour. This is one of the best places in the world to see Orca Whales!
• Best Walking Food Tour : With more than 1,000 5-star reviews, this is your best chance to explore Victoria’s history and culinary scene on a walking food tour.
• Best Seaplane Flightseeing Tour : If you’re looking to get some incredible views of Victoria and the surrounding area, you’ll want to take a seaplane flightseeing tour.
• Best Comprehensive Tour from Vancouver to Victoria : If you’re in Vancouver and short on time, this 13-hour tour from Vancouver to Victoria will give you an excellent taste of British Columbia’s capital city.

1. Half-Day Whale Watching Adventure from Victoria

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars (1,027+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  3+ Hours | 🚀  BOOK NOW

When you’re visiting British Columbia , you really shouldn’t miss the opportunity to go whale watching. After all, it offers one of the best chances in the world to spot orca whales! Join this 3-hour whale-watching adventure in Victoria for the chance to see beautiful Canadian wildlife. Hop aboard your semi-covered vessel built specifically for whale-watching trips, and cruise through the Haro Strait with your guide. Watch the waves from the open sun decks or stay protected from the spray in the heated indoor cabin. Stop off at points of interest through the Strait of Juan de Fuca. listen to fascinating commentary from marine naturalists, and keep your eyes on the lookout for beautiful orca whales, humpback whales, and minke whales.

I went solo, and had the best time. I met a lovely couple and we shared the day whale watching . The excitement of seeing the whales was phenomenal. Crew did a great job of locating them, following them and taking spectacular pictures of what we saw. The boat also took us to see a Gray whale. All crew were also very personable and friendly. A must do in Victoria, BC. -Melanie ( see more reviews )

This 3-hour whale-watching tour in Victoria BC includes:

• Captain and expert crew of 3-4 guides/naturalists
• Free photo package of your trip & wildlife, with personal photos of you and your loved ones
• Two washrooms
• Lifetime Whale Sightings Guarantee – new free tour from Vancouver or Victoria until you see whales!
• GST (Goods and Services Tax)
• $5 per person Salish Sea Conservation Fee (1% For The Planet Initiative) is included in the price
• Downloadable tour guides in English, Spanish, French, German and Dutch
• Kids colouring books and educational guides

Click Here to See Reviews, Pricing, and Availability.

2. Victoria Whale and Wildlife Cruise

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars (561+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  3.5 Hours | 🚀  BOOK NOW

Cruise the Salish Sea in comfort while you search for whales, seals, bald eagles, and otters on this half-day award-winning guided tour . Led by a certified naturalist, this whale-watching experience takes place on a custom-built, high-performance open boat or one of their semi-covered catamarans, allowing you to enjoy whale-watching in Victoria in comfort. Plus, If no whales are sighted, you can return for free.

The entire experience was excellent. Great communication pre-trip, engaging interactions on board, a very well-designed boat and fortunately it was a sunny day with beautiful blue skies and we saw a group of orcas as well as some bald eagles, sea lions and sea otters. The boat was fast and the wind felt cold so wrap up well. Wind breakers gloves and caps were a welcome offering. All in all a fun morning and a must do in Victoria. -Amit ( see more reviews )

This 3.5-hour Victoria whale-watching tour includes:

• Local guide
• Live commentary on board
• $5 Wildlife fee included in price
• Fuel Surcharge

3. Zodiac Whale Watching Adventure from Victoria

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars (396+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  3 Hours | 🚀  BOOK NOW

Get up close and personal on this adventurous 3-hour whale-watching tour in a zodiac ! Hop aboard your open-top boat in Victoria Harbour and cruise out into the rolling waves with your guide. This zodiac speedboat is built with stability in mind and remains buoyant even in rough seas. It also allows you to get a little closer to the whales and can move much faster than the bigger boats. Cruise through the Haro Straight to the Strait of Juan de Fuca as you watch the water for sightings of humpback whales, minke whales and orcas breaching the waves, and learn of their life cycle and migration habits.

We had a great time! We saw many whales . It was an incredible experience. Highly recommended. Our guide went above and beyond to find us whales and we got to see humpbacks and orcas. -Danielle ( see more reviews )

This 3-hour Victoria whale-watching tour includes:

• Whale and marine life watching tour on a 12-passenger open-aired zodiac boat
• Expert Guide/Skipper
• All-weather exposure flotation suits

4. Sunset Whale Watching Adventure from Victoria

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars (250+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  3 Hours | 🚀  BOOK NOW

Whale watching is already one of the top things to do in Victoria , but if you can combine it with a magical sunset, even better! Discover a new perspective on Victoria’s striking coastal scenery while having the chance to see Orcas and Humpback whales on this three-hour sunset whale-watching tour !

Make your own way to the dock in Downtown Victoria, and hop aboard their catamaran, equipped with three separate viewing decks where you can be on the lookout for whales, sea lions, eagles, and more. You’ll also get to admire the sunset while learning about the local wildlife from your guide’s commentary.

This was an incredible experience, far exceeded my expectations. I’m terrible with names but I think our guides name was Scott? He was awesome, very knowledgeable, a lot of fun, he made sure everyone was comfortable and enjoying themselves. And of course , the whales, what a phenomenal site to see not one but two separate pods of killer whales. If I’m ever in Victoria again I will definitely do this again. -Marie ( see more reviews )

This 3-Hour Whale Watching Tour in Victoria BC includes:

• Coffee and/or Tea
• Restroom on board
• All Fees and Taxes
• Lifetime Whale Sighting Guarantee – new free tour from any of our locations until you see whales!
• Downloadable tour guides: English, Spanish, French, German and Dutch

5. Victoria Whale Watch Tour

⭐️  RATING:  4.5 out of 5 Stars (229+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  3 Hours | 🚀  BOOK NOW

If you’re looking for a more comfortable whale-watching experience, this is one of the top Victoria tours. Experience an up-close encounter with northern Pacific marine life on this 3-hour whale-watching cruise in a comfortable, motorized boat. Learn all about the local marine ecology from a naturalist guide while watching for humpback whales, gray whales, orcas, elephant seals, sea lions, bald eagles and more.

Best whale watching tour we have been on. The boat was perfect size, not too small or too big. Was able to get close to the whales and follow along them easily. Great crew, super informative. Great views of Olympia and the islands which is a bonus Be sure to bring extra layers and jacket. Even during a heat wave we were frozen on the water. Worth it. -Monica ( see more reviews )

This 3-hour whale-watching tour in Victoria includes:

• Professional naturalists and biologists on board each trip
• 3 to the 3.5-hour tour departing downtown Victoria
• Choose either a morning or afternoon departure time

6. Hot Tub Boat Victoria

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars (67+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  1.5 Hours | 🚀  BOOK NOW

If you’re looking for what’s perhaps the most unique of the many amazing Victoria tours, you’ve come to the right place! This is your chance to soak in a wood-fired heated hot tub while cruising through Victoria Harbour . This private hot tub boat is good for 3 to 6 passengers and lets you explore the historic waterfront while relaxing to music from a waterproof speaker. Cool off with a dip in the sea with the security of the boat ladder at your side while enjoying a really unique and relaxing attraction.

Booked as a birthday gift for my 20yr old son and his friends. They had a blast! They were able to jump into the cold water and climb back into the hot tub while out in the bay. The weather was perfect and they even got to see a fantastic sunset as they went in the evening. The instructor was friendly and excellent at covering all the knowledge needed for safety. I wish I had caught her name. Great experiences, memories and laughter and at a reasonable price! -Happy customer ( see more reviews )

This unique hot tub boat Victoria tour includes:

• Waterproof Speaker

7. Victoria and Butchart Gardens Day Trip from Vancouver

⭐️  RATING:  4.5 out of 5 Stars (1,646+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  13 Hours | 🚀  BOOK NOW

If you’re staying in Vancouver and are short on time but still want to experience the city of Victoria, this tour is for you. This 13-hour full-day tour of Victoria travels from Vancouver by coach and ferry gives you the opportunity to witness the region’s stunning waterways and mountains en route to British Columbia’s capital.

Spend the day visiting some of Victoria’s top attractions like the world-famous Butchart Gardens, a 55-acre (22-hectare) haven for nature enthusiasts. This tour combines guided coach tours and free time to explore on your own and also includes hotel pickups and dropoffs at select hotels.

Our guide Baz, was full of poise, kindness, and hilarity! his knowledge of the greater Vancouver area and Victoria Island added such a great level of detail that no guidebook could ever provide. the butchart gardens! definitely a ++++ to visit the gardens later in the day (2nd half of tour). it was empty! we had the gardens to ourselves!!! after arrving, we were on our own. to experience the beauty without extraneous chatter or bustling crowds on the paths is key! the ferry experience was simplified by Baz’s thoughtful process, careful explanation to the group, and easy-going way with the ferry crew. He literally knows every inch of the tour route and then some! -Denise ( see more reviews )

This 13-hour comprehensive Victoria tour from Vancouver includes:

• Hotel pickup and drop-off (Please call to arrange)
• Professional driver/guide
• Local taxes
• Admission for the ferry
• Admission to Butchart Gardens

8. Vancouver to Victoria Seaplane Flight

⭐️  RATING:  4.5 out of 5 Stars (124+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  35 minutes | 🚀  BOOK NOW

There’s perhaps no cooler way of getting to Victoria from Vancouver than by Seaplane . This is your chance to not only see some incredible views as you fly from Vancouver to Victoria but to also arrive there in just 35 minutes!

Hop aboard your seaplane in Coal Harbour and take to the skies with your pilot as you look out the window at the Burrard Inlet, the Lion’s Gate Bridge, and Stanley Park’s Brockton Peninsula. You’ll then soar over the Salish Sea, admiring the Gulf Islands’ sandy beaches and dense forests. Just 30 minutes later, you’ll arrive in beautiful Victoria, BC! Flights depart hourly from morning till evening every day

Great way to see Victoria in a day – much faster & easier than ferry. Aerial views are amazing & stunning. -Yvette ( see more reviews )

This 35-minute scenic flight from Vancouver to Victoria includes:

• Taxes and fees
• One way flight

9. Pedicab Tour of Victoria from Cruise Ship Terminal

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars (200+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  3 Hours | 🚀  BOOK NOW

After your scenic ferry ride over to Victoria, what could be better than being picked up in your very own Pedicab with a knowledgeable guide ready to give you a 3-hour tour of the city?

Explore Victoria, British Columbia by pedicab on this 3-hour tour of the city , including convenient pickup and drop-off at the cruise ship terminal. Travel through one of Victoria’s oldest neighbourhoods, James Bay, to one of its oldest grocers. Continue on through Beacon Hill Park, admire the colourful peacocks, and then catch a glimpse of the famous Empress Hotel. For first-time visitors, this is one of the best Victoria tours.

This was the absolute best excursion!! Soren was our pedicab guide and driver. He was so fun and went above and beyond. He gave us so much historical and current info about Victoria. He was also very funny and engaged the kids as well. Don’t miss out on this excursion. 5 stars!! -Paola ( see more reviews )

This 3-hour Pedicab tour of Victoria includes:

• Port pickup and drop-off
• Professional guide
• All taxes, fees and handling charges

10. Victoria Panorama Seaplane Tour

⭐️  RATING:  4.5 out of 5 Stars (76+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  30 minutes | 🚀  BOOK NOW

You’ve seen Victoria from the ground so now it’s time to see it from the sky! Fly over downtown Victoria on this 20-minute seaplane flight , including the harbour, coastline, Strait of Juan de Fuca, and the Olympic Mountains towering in the distance. With up to only five passengers, this is an intimate, small-group ride navigated by an expert pilot.

A great tour around the Victoria harbor. Wonderful views and fun experience for the whole family. The 20-minutes flight provides unbeatable sights of the area. -Nicholas ( see more reviews )

This 30-minute seaplane tour of Victoria includes:

• 20-minute flight
• Carbon Offset Levy

11. Victoria Harbour Kayak Tour

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars (28+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  3 Hours | 🚀  BOOK NOW

Everyone sees the harbour from the city but not everyone sees the city from the harbour! Get a new perspective on Victoria’s beautiful, bustling harbour while getting some exercise on this guided 3-hour kayak tour .

Glide through the historic waterways in a state-of-the-art sea kayak, soaking up fantastic views of where Victoria’s stunning skyline meets the harbour’s wild aquatic landscape. Paddle along the local traffic of seaplanes, ferries and whale-watching boats while keeping an eye out for native wildlife like river otters and harbour seals. Choose between a morning and afternoon departure to suit your schedule.

Relaxing and informative. We saw a side of Victoria that we would otherwise probably not see. Guide was considerate, well-trained and well-informed. -Sunit ( see more reviews )

This 3-hour kayak tour of the Victoria harbourfront includes:

• Kayak equipment

12. Victoria Guided Food and History Tour

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars (1,277+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  2 Hours | 🚀  BOOK NOW

More than 1,000 5-star reviews? Yup, this is definitely a great tour. Explore Victoria’s history and culinary scene on this walking food tour of Victoria, BC . Follow a guide to highlights such as the Parliament Buildings, the Inner Harbor Causeway, Trounce Alley, Bastion and Market squares, Fan Tan Alley, the Harmonious Gates of Interest, and the Victoria Public Market while, and this important, stopping along the way for tasty samples of craft beer, chocolate, tea, tapas, cheese, bread, olive oil, and other local products. What more could you want?

The variety of food stops and pace were excellent! Delicious samples. Highly recommend. It was great to travel down streets with a guide. Victoria is beautiful! -Joyce ( see more reviews )

Choose between morning or afternoon tours on this 2-hour food walking tour of Victoria that includes:

• Accommodation as per itinerary

13. Downtown Victoria Food & City Tour

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars (75+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  2 Hours | 🚀  BOOK NOW

Food and a tour of Victoria? Ah yes, please!

When it comes to Victoria tours that involve food, this one is hard to beat. Treat your taste buds to a walking food tour of Victoria’s bustling Fort & Blanshard Streets , which was once known as Antique Row for its abundance of vintage shops. This hip neighbourhood is now filled with trendy restaurants, modern boutique shops, and the arts district, making it one of the top places to visit in Victoria. Follow a local gourmet guide to some of the best eateries in the area including a tea salon, a European-style deli, an authentic taqueria, Middle-Eastern street food, and more. Chat with shop owners and chefs along the way to gain insight into Victoria’s thriving culinary scene. This tour is also limited to 12 for a more personalized tasting experience.

Great tour! Lots of stops, wide variety of samples, nicely balanced! The businesses were very welcoming to our group and the food was excellent! Our guide was exceptional!! We had to leave for the airport before the last tour stop; she made arrangements to get us a take away treat from the last tour stop AND called us a cab!! -Sara ( see more reviews )

This 2-hour food tour of Victoria includes:

• Food and drink tastings
• Afternoon tea

14. Castles, Hoods & Legends – Bike Tour

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars (103+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  2 Hours | 🚀  BOOK NOW

If you like biking, this is your chance to spin your way through downtown Victoria and discover some of the top attractions with ease on this Victoria Castles and Neighbourhood bike tour . Hop onto your bike and follow your guide through the city streets while learning about Victoria’s colourful past through its historic buildings and exploring many districts such as the Inner Harbour, Cook Street Village, and Chinatown. You’ll also enjoy beautiful views over the Dallas Road waterfront, admire the eery Craigdarroch Castle, cycle through Moss Rock Park and Beacon Hill Park, and soak up the artistic atmosphere in leafy Fernwood.

This was a fun and easy bike tour! Our guide, Mike, was very interesting and incredibly friendly. We got to see a number of Victoria areas and learn some history too. Would absolutely recommend! -Lynn ( see more reviews )

This 2-hour Victoria tour includes:

• Local Guide
• Use of Equipment

15. Vancouver to Victoria – Coach Bus Transfer

⭐️  RATING:  4.5 out of 5 Stars (56+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  4 Hours | 🚀  BOOK NOW

While this isn’t so much a tour as it is transportation, it’s still a great option for those without a car that is trying to get to Victoria from Vancouver. Book a first-class transfer from downtown Vancouver to downtown Victoria , and enjoy a stress-free journey through western British Columbia with this simple, cost-effective option that offers multiple departure times, seven days a week. Transport is by comfortable motorcoach and the BC Ferry. Once you arrive, book one of the many Victoria tours we mention in this guide.

It was very convenient. We’re on vacation and getting from Vancouver to Victoria can be a challenge. Getting on the bus and off at our destination made the crossing easy. The bus was clean and comfortable and the driver was safe and professional. Thank you for the service. Cheers. -Jim ( see more reviews )

This 4-hour trip from Vancouver to Victoria includes:

• One-way shared transfer
• BC Ferries Fare

16. Historical Victoria Walking Tour

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars (86+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  1.5 Hours | 🚀  BOOK NOW

Last but not least, one of the best ways to explore a city is by foot, so this is your chance to explore lovely Victoria on this guided walking tour with a local historian . Along the way, take in stunning views of the city’s Inner Harbour while wandering the streets, alleyways, and town squares of Old Town, Bastion Square, and Chinatown, learning about Victoria’s history as you go. The tour is an inexpensive addition to a day of sightseeing and is ideal for first-time visitors. Headsets are also provided to help you hear the guide.

This was a very comprehensive explanation of the history of the Victoria area of Vancouver Island. My wife and I really appreciated starting the story with the indigenous people who lived in the area for thousands of years prior to European settlement. When we finished we felt we had been given an accurate and concise overview of how Victoria became the place it is today. In the top two of tours of this kind that we have participated in. -Tony ( see more reviews )

This 1.5-hour walking tour of Victoria includes:

• Professional local guide
• Headsets to hear the guide clearly

We hope you enjoyed this guide to the best Victoria tours. If you have any questions or would like to recommend another tour, leave us a comment below!

About Matthew G. Bailey

Matthew G. Bailey is the founder and editor-in-chief of Must Do Canada. Growing up in Alberta to a mother from Quebec and a father from Newfoundland, Matt spent his childhood playing hockey under the Northern Lights and hanging out in the forest before moving to Calgary and travelling to more than 250 cities spanning 42 countries and 6 continents. He loves travel, learning new things, playing sports, writing, making videos, photography, and scuba diving. You can also find him at LiveLimitless.net .

Reader Interactions

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Please enter an answer in digits: eighteen − 6 =

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

© 2022 Must Do Canada. All Rights Reserved.

Things to Do in Canada

• Privacy Policy
• Work With Us
• Get in Touch
• Facts about Canada
• Canadian Languages
• Canadian Money
• Canada Flags
• Things to Do in Calgary
• Best Canada Road Trips
• Best Road Trip Essentials
• Fall in Canada
• Travel Resources

• Book Tickets
• Hop-On Hop-Off CitySights
• Butchart Gardens Experience
• Reasons to go
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Double Decker Digest

City Tours & Beyond

Gray Line Sightseeing Victoria tours are the best way to explore Victoria!

Explore Victoria at your own pace with our flexible tours. Hop on our iconic Double Decker buses , enjoy a comfortable motor coach tour to Butchart Gardens , or immerse yourself in the city lights on our Evening City Sites tour .

With over 100 years of experience, Gray Line is synonymous with exceptional sightseeing. Join us for a memorable journey beyond expectations.

Explore Tours

The Butchart Gardens Experience

Explore the world-famous garden with its captivating themed gardens, exotic plants, and serene water features. It’s an unforgettable experience that will leave a lasting impression!

Hop On Hop Off

Unlimited sightseeing stopping at the best attractions around the city. Is there a better way to explore Victoria? Experience Victoria like no other aboard one of our open top double-decker buses. Sightseeing Victoria’s Hop on Hop off Tour allows guests great flexibility to explore the many popular attractions Victoria has to offer.

Reason to Go

Butchart Gardens

Oak Bay Village

Bastion Square

Craigdarroch Castle / Victoria Art Gallery / Fernwood

Cook Street Village

Ogden Point Breakwater

Gray line victoria in motion, graylinevic.

Safe Travels

The health and safety of our visitors, staff and community continue to be our top priority as we move forward in our recovery efforts. The SafeTravels Stamp was created for travelers to recognize destinations and businesses around the world which have adopted the SafeTravels health and hygiene global standardized protocols. Learn More

Services Update: Sunday April 28 2024- Hop On Hop Off service begins at 12:30pm due to TC10k race

THE 10 BEST Victoria City Tours

City tours in victoria.

• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Sightseeing Tours
• Cultural Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Likely to Sell Out

• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Full Day Guided Tour in Victoria with Butchart Gardens

2. Two Hour Luxury City Tour of Victoria

3. Hip & Hidden Chinatown + Old Town Food Tour Victoria

4. Victoria BC Ferry Mile Zero 1 Day City Tour from Vancouver

5. 3-Hour Bike Tour of Victoria City & the Coastal Shoreside

6. Victoria City and Butchart Gardens Private Half-Day Tour

7. Victoria Bites & Sights

8. Hop on Hop off Tour in Victoria City

9. Private Small Group Deluxe Tour of Victoria & to Butchart Gardens

10. The Ultimate Group Package Tour of Victoria

11. The Butchart Gardens Express Shuttle

12. 3-Hour Street Art & Craft Beer Tour of Victoria, Brewery Tour & Tasting included

13. Victoria to Vancouver Seaplane Flight

14. Waterfalls, Cathedral Grove Rainforest, and Coombs Adventure with Hiking

15. Historical Chinatown Walking Tour

16. Victoria - True Crime Walking Tour, James Bay to Songhees Point

17. 4-Day Package w/Victoria, Whistler & YVR Airport Pickup (Eng&Chn)

18. Best of Victoria City Highlights Private Tour Day or Evening

19. Victoria 2-Day Tour from Vancouver

20. Day Trip to Victoria and Butchart Gardens from Vancouver

21. Butchart Gardens and City Tour

22. 2-Hour Victoria Highlights Private Walking Tour

23. One Hour Luxury City Tour of Victoria

24. 3-Hour Private Walking Tour of Victoria's Highlights

25. Victoria to Vancouver Seaplane Day Trip & Capilano Bridge

26. Castle + 48hr HoHo

27. 3-Day Tour to Vancouver Island w/ YVR Airport pickup (Eng&Mandarin)

28. Best of City Highlights Butchart Gardens Private Tour

29. Victoria and Butchart Gardens Private Tour for Two

30. Vancouver to Victoria day tour Private

What travelers are saying.

• Downtown Victoria Food & City Tour
• 2.5-Hour Tips-Based Walking Tour of Victoria
• Victoria Panorama Seaplane Tour
• Hip & Hidden Chinatown + Old Town Food Tour Victoria
• 3-Hour Bike Tour of Victoria City & the Coastal Shoreside
• A Taste of Victoria Food Tours
• Island Time Tours
• Surfside Adventure Tours
• The Pedaler
• Victoria Carriage Tours
• Fresh Air Tours
• Alset Tours
• Classic Car Tours

• Skip to primary navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar
• Skip to footer

Live the Adventure!

Victoria is the perfect blend of old charm in a vibrant, small city.

Visit the capital of bc.

Victoria, the capital of British Columbia, is located on gorgeous Vancouver Island and is considered one of the world’s most beautiful cities

Famous for the historic Empress Hotel, we invite you to stroll around the peaceful Inner Harbor, nesting the Parliament buildings. Discover Canada’s oldest Chinatown neighbourhood. Explore the beautiful Butchart Gardens, a year-round must-see in Victoria.

Explore the rest of our  British Columbia tours !

COASTAL BC INSIDE PASSAGE & ROCKIES

VANCOUVER ISLAND PREMIUM

WESTERN CANADA & VANCOUVER ISLAND PREMIUM

Day Trips with Discover Vancouver Tours

Best guided day tours by local experts to discover Vancouver, Whistler, Victoria and the Malahat

Young & Wild Tours with West Trek

Affordable tours to iconic destinations for solo travellers, international students & young at heart adventurers

Explore the rest of our Day Tours

636 Hornby Street Vancouver, BC V6C 2G2

Tel: (604) 689-8128 Toll Free: 1-855-689-8128 Email: hello@discovercanadatours.com

Office Hours:

Every day (Monday – Sunday) 9:00 am – 5:30 pm

• In the News
• Tour and Travel Deals
• Adventure With Confidence
• Terms & Conditions
• Privacy Policy

Brand Portfolio

Discover Vancouver Tours Extraordinary Experiences West Trek Destination Snow Discover Canada Student Adventures Uniglobe Specialty Travel

Agent Resources

Agent Login New Agent Sign Up E-Brochure

Be Social with Us

• Enable Accessibility

• 00800 0310 21 21 1-855-577-9489 1-877-288-3037 1-877-288-3037 1-877-474-2969
• | NCL Travel Blog">11-Reasons to Cruise to Alaska this Summer | NCL Travel Blog
• | Norwegian Cruise Line">14-Day Authentic Alaska - Northbound Cruise Tour | Norwegian Cruise Line
• | Deck Plans | Norwegian Cruise Line">14-Day Authentic Alaska - Southbound Cruise Tour | Deck Plans | Norwegian Cruise Line
• | Norwegian Cruise Line">20-Day Transpacific from Tokyo (Yokohama) & Alaska | Norwegian Cruise Line
• | NCL Travel Blog">11 Reasons to Cruise to Alaska this Summer | NCL Travel Blog
• View All Results
• Preferences
• Latitudes Rewards
• Special Offers
• Personalised Recommendations
• Make reservations before you cruise
• 1 (current)

* Terms & Conditions Package not available on sailings less than 5 days or charter sailings.

Shore Excursion Details

O canada highlights, victoria, british columbia.

Added to Favourites!

• 2 1/4 hrs Estimate Duration

View picturesque Victoria on this entertaining 2 hour and 15 minute tour with a distinctly Canadian flavor.

Take in the city's iconic landmarks along the way.

See the oldest Chinatown in Canada, and the stately Empress Hotel and Legislature building in Victoria's beautiful Inner Harbour.

Heading up Mount Tolmie, you'll encounter a wonderful panoramic city view, followed by a drive through the University of Victoria, where the original campus design has an interesting American connection.

What's the big deal about Tim Horton's? You're about to find out as you stop for coffee and a small snack at this Canadian institution -- a fast-food chain that is virtually synonymous with Canadian citizenship.

A Canadian trivia quiz will entertain you along the way -- with prizes, of course -- ensuring that you learn a little about our northern neighbor and adding some variety to your outing. You'll pass through downtown en route back to the pier. Guests have the option to stay downtown and make there own way back to the pier if they would like.

A Canadian goodie bag is yours to enjoy, with chips, a chocolate bar and maple candy at the end of the tour.

Need to Know:

Check out the, activity attributes, excursion type:.

Scenic & City Tours

Activity level:.

• 3 Challenging

Top Tours in Victoria, British Columbia

Victoria tours.

• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Sightseeing Tours
• Cultural Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Chinese (Simplified)
• Likely to Sell Out
• Special Offers
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Victoria and Butchart Gardens Tour from Vancouver

2. Half-Day Whale Watching Adventure from Victoria

3. Same Day Round Trip from Seattle to Victoria

4. Victoria Whale Watch Tour

5. Victoria and Butchart Gardens Day Trip from Vancouver

6. Discover Victoria & Butchart Gardens Tour from Vancouver

7. Victoria Guided Food and History Tour

8. COMBO Victoria City Tour & Butchart Gardens & Entry Tix

9. Downtown Victoria Food & City Tour

10. Small Group Cultural and Historical Walking Tour in Victoria

11. Full Day Guided Tour in Victoria with Butchart Gardens

12. Victoria and Butchart Gardens Tour from Vancouver

13. Indulge in a Wine & Food & Farms (Cheese) Tour - Cowichan Valley

14. Beacon Hill Park Horse-Drawn Carriage Tour of Victoria

15. Whale Watching Cruise with Expert Naturalists

16. Vancouver to Victoria Seaplane Day Trip with Butchart Gardens

17. Whale Watching Tour in a Zodiac Boat in Victoria

18. Pedicab Tour of Victoria from Cruise Ship Terminal

19. Victoria Whale and Wildlife Cruise

20. Two Hour Luxury City Tour of Victoria

21. Zodiac Whale Watching Adventure from Victoria

22. Hip & Hidden Chinatown + Old Town Food Tour Victoria

23. Victoria Panorama Seaplane Tour

24. Pickle Pub Crawl in Victoria's Inner Harbour

25. High-Speed Passenger Ferry Between Seattle, WA & Victoria, BC: ONE-WAY

26. Victoria BC Ferry Mile Zero 1 Day City Tour from Vancouver

27. 3-Hour Bike Tour of Victoria City & the Coastal Shoreside

28. 60-Minute Beacon Hill Park Tour

29. Victoria City and Butchart Gardens Private Half-Day Tour

30. Ghostly Walking Tour in Victoria

What travellers are saying.

• Mark D B 1 contribution 0 5.0 of 5 bubbles Lovely day tour from Vancouver A long but enjoyable day trip from Vancouver. Our guide Anthony was very informative and conscientious about ensuring everyone was informed and back at the correct times. The Butchart Gardens are beautiful and Victoria is a lovely City. Thoroughly recommend this trip and the tour company. Read more Review of: Victoria and Butchart Gardens Tour from Vancouver Written April 30, 2024 This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.

• Victoria and Butchart Gardens Tour from Vancouver
• Victoria and Butchart Gardens Day Trip from Vancouver
• Victoria Whale Watch Tour
• Half-Day Whale Watching Adventure from Victoria
• Discover Victoria & Butchart Gardens Tour from Vancouver
• A Taste of Victoria Food Tours
• Island Time Tours
• Surfside Adventure Tours
• The Pedaler
• Victoria Carriage Tours
• Fresh Air Tours
• Alset Tours
• Classic Car Tours
• Vancouver Island Wine Tours - Tours
• The Natural Connection
• BC Whale Tours
• Sidecar Victoria
• Harbour Air Seaplanes
• Eagle Wing Whale & Wildlife Watching Tours
• Prince of Whales - Whale Watching Adventures
• SpringTide Whale Watching & Charters
• Victoria Kayak

• Login or Register to access your account
• Digital Wallet
• Get Started
• 114 Ports of Call
• 14 Destinations
• 76,834 Shopper Approved
• 16,230 Live Help
• 7,997 Excursion Reviews
• Victoria Excursions
• Cruise Excursions Ports
• Free Back to Ship Guarantee & Free Last Minute Cancellations!
• Simply the Best Deal Guarantee, Or we refund 115% of Difference!
• 101,000+ Customer Reviews, 4.8 / 5 Booking Satisfaction Record!
• 24/7 Personal Traveler Assistance, 365 Days & Around the World!

Victoria is the capital of British Columbia and is located on the southern tip of Vancouver Island off the Pacific Ocean. Considered one of the prettiest cities in Canada, it has become quite the tourist destination. With English spoken (along with French, Chinese, and German) it is easy to maneuver around. The currency is the Canadian dollar and you can exchange it at any bank, ATM, or location.  Victoria is in the top twenty of world cities for quality-of-life and once you visit you'll understand why. The many cultures blend well and the city is known for its cleanliness. The eclectic mix of cultures here is found in art, clothing, cuisine, music, and more. A world renowned orchestra is here, there are a variety of theater productions, a ballet group, an art museum, and many other cultural events.

Top 0 Victoria Excursions

• No Port No Pay
• No Hidden Fees
• Deposit Payment Only
• Money Back Guarantee
• Back to Ship Guarantee
• Packages and Coupons
• Lowest Price Guarantees
• Free Last Minute Changes
• Small Personalized Groups
• Secure Payment Guarantee
• Extended Customer Service Hours
• Most Flexible Cancellation Policies

• Round-trip route from a convenient meeting point in Victoria!
• Discover Victoria onboard an Open Double-Decker bus!
• Audio narration on the bus!
• Sightseeing of Historic Victoria, Chinatown, Victoria's Inner Harbour, Fisherman's Wharf, Beacon Hill Park, Oak Bay Village, Oak Bay Marina, and Cook St. Village!

Top Tours in Victoria, Canada

Victoria tours.

• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Sightseeing Tours
• Cultural Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Chinese (Simplified)
• Likely to Sell Out
• Special Offers
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Victoria and Butchart Gardens Tour from Vancouver

2. Half-Day Whale Watching Adventure from Victoria

3. Same Day Round Trip from Seattle to Victoria

4. Victoria Whale Watch Tour

5. Victoria and Butchart Gardens Day Trip from Vancouver

6. Discover Victoria & Butchart Gardens Tour from Vancouver

7. Victoria Guided Food and History Tour

8. COMBO Victoria City Tour & Butchart Gardens & Entry Tix

9. Downtown Victoria Food & City Tour

10. West Coast Big Tree Beach and Waterfall Adventure

11. Full Day Guided Tour in Victoria with Butchart Gardens

12. Victoria and Butchart Gardens Tour from Vancouver

13. Indulge in a Wine & Food & Farms (Cheese) Tour - Cowichan Valley

14. Beacon Hill Park Horse-Drawn Carriage Tour of Victoria

15. Whale Watching Cruise with Expert Naturalists

16. Vancouver to Victoria Seaplane Day Trip with Butchart Gardens

17. Whale Watching Tour in a Zodiac Boat in Victoria

18. Pedicab Tour of Victoria from Cruise Ship Terminal

19. Pickle Pub Crawl in Victoria's Inner Harbour

20. Victoria Whale and Wildlife Cruise

21. Two Hour Luxury City Tour of Victoria

22. Zodiac Whale Watching Adventure from Victoria

23. Hip & Hidden Chinatown + Old Town Food Tour Victoria

24. Victoria Panorama Seaplane Tour

25. High-Speed Passenger Ferry Between Seattle, WA & Victoria, BC: ONE-WAY

26. Victoria BC Ferry Mile Zero 1 Day City Tour from Vancouver

27. 3-Hour Bike Tour of Victoria City & the Coastal Shoreside

28. 60-Minute Beacon Hill Park Tour

29. Victoria City and Butchart Gardens Private Half-Day Tour

30. Ghostly Walking Tour in Victoria

What travellers are saying.

• Mark D B 1 contribution 0 5.0 of 5 bubbles Lovely day tour from Vancouver A long but enjoyable day trip from Vancouver. Our guide Anthony was very informative and conscientious about ensuring everyone was informed and back at the correct times. The Butchart Gardens are beautiful and Victoria is a lovely City. Thoroughly recommend this trip and the tour company. Read more Review of: Victoria and Butchart Gardens Tour from Vancouver Written 30 April 2024 This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.

• Victoria and Butchart Gardens Tour from Vancouver
• Victoria and Butchart Gardens Day Trip from Vancouver
• Victoria Whale Watch Tour
• Half-Day Whale Watching Adventure from Victoria
• Discover Victoria & Butchart Gardens Tour from Vancouver
• A Taste of Victoria Food Tours
• Island Time Tours
• Surfside Adventure Tours
• The Pedaler
• Victoria Carriage Tours
• Fresh Air Tours
• Alset Tours
• Classic Car Tours
• Vancouver Island Wine Tours - Tours
• The Natural Connection
• BC Whale Tours
• Sidecar Victoria
• Harbour Air Seaplanes
• Eagle Wing Whale & Wildlife Watching Tours
• Prince of Whales - Whale Watching Adventures
• SpringTide Whale Watching & Charters
• Victoria Kayak

Follow your sense of discovery to Greater Victoria

Where land meets sea & cultures converge

Open-hearted, open-minded, and wide open spaces await.

Whale tales & blowhole buddies

Shouts of glee punctuate the air as you float alongside majestic orca, humpback, gray and minke whales on a guided excursion. Beyond blowholes, watch porpoises, sea lions and seals at play as marine birds glide over the sea.

Welcome With Open Arms

See yourself here

Ready to explore?

Come and experience our rich culture and the diverse range of activities for all ages, abilities and preferences. Select an icon to navigate to the activities page or browse through some of our favourites showcased below.

Download Victoria's Vacation Guide

Navigate our map of Greater Victoria

Victoria Visitor Centre

812 Wharf Street Victoria, B.C.

More Greater Victoria

• Travel Tips

Corporate Hub

• Corporate Destination Greater Victoria

Victoria, Canada

Description.

Victoria exudes old-world charm and fragrant, colorful flowers are everywhere. Founded in 1843 by James Douglas of the Hudson's Bay Company, the city was first known as Fort Victoria. By 1848, Vancouver Island was a British colony and Victoria was its capital. In 1858, Victoria was a tent city and the base for some 25,000 prospectors on their way to the Frasier River gold fields. When Vancouver Island was incorporated with mainland British Columbia in 1868, Victoria became the capital of the entire province. Although it's a port city, Victoria is not as industrially oriented as Vancouver. The harbors, especially Inner Harbour, are dotted with pleasure craft, ferries and floatplanes. The city is renowned for its beautiful gardens, charming houses and very British feel.

Points of Interest

• Butchart Gardens
• Legislative Buildings
• Fairmont Empress Hotel
• Beacon Hill Park
• Victoria Butterfly Gardens
• Craigdarroch Castle
• Local Flavors
• Whale Watching

More about Victoria, Canada Points of Interest

Victoria's most popular attraction, this 55-acre floral wonderland features themed botanical gardens, meandering pathways, refreshing fountains, exquisite foliage, and magnificent bronze statues.

Home to the Legislative Assembly of British Columbia, these magnificent buildings, constructed in 1893, honor Queen Victoria's Diamond Jubilee. In the evening, they are illuminated by 3,000 light bulbs.

Situated over the Inner Harbour, this National Historic Site of Canada is one of Victoria's oldest and most famous hotels and has become an iconic symbol for the city itself.

This lush, 62-acre oasis is the crowning jewel in Victoria's park system. A haven for wildlife, birds, and outdoor enthusiasts, the grounds are a combination of landscaped and natural beauty.

This 12,000-square-foot enclosure is a tropical paradise filled with a multitude of free-flying butterflies. Discover life in this lush habitat, home to rare birds, koi ponds, and breathtaking jungle foliage.

A Canadian National Historic Site, this Victorian-era castle was built between 1887-1890. Explore this restored estate, marvel at the antiques and furnishings, and stroll the opulent grounds.

Victoria is home to a thriving culinary scene of farms, restaurants, tea houses, pubs and craft beverage makers. Samples unique creations from the area's wineries, breweries, distilleries, cidermakers and enjoy treats with fresh local ingredients.

See killer whales in their natural habitat! During a thrilling harbor cruise, you'll be on the look out for these majestic creatures, as well as be able to spot seals, sea lions and porpoises.

29 Excursions

Craigdarroch castle, mt. tolmie & city highlights.

Shopping Opportunities, Moderate Activity

From $ 59.95

Easy Victoria: City Highlights Tour

Easy Activity

From $ 54.95

Easy Victoria: City Lights Highlights

From $ 84.95

Victoria by Horse-Drawn Trolley

From $ 79.95

O Canada Victoria Highlights

Easy Activity, Includes snack

From $ 49.95

O Canada: Night Lights City Highlights

From $ 99.95

Victoria Highlights & the Royal BC Museum

From $ 94.95

Local Connections: Center of the Universe Observatory & City Highlights Developed by Astronomer

Moderate Activity

From $ 119.95

High Tea at Pendray Mansion & City Highlights

Easy Activity, Includes meal

From $ 89.95

High Tea at Pendray Mansion & City Night Lights

From $ 159.95

Enchanting Butchart Gardens

Shopping Opportunities, Easy Activity

From $ 129.95

Enchanting Butchart Gardens (Wheelchair Accessible)

Wheelchair Accessible, Shopping Opportunities, Easy Activity

Fireworks at Butchart Gardens

Fireworks at butchart gardens (wheelchair accessible).

Wheelchair Accessible, Easy Activity

Best of Victoria: Butchart & Butterfly Gardens

From $ 109.95

Best of Victoria: Butchart & Butterfly Gardens (Wheelchair Accessible)

English tea at butchart gardens.

Shopping Opportunities, Easy Activity, Includes snack

From $ 69.95

English Tea at Butchart Gardens (Wheelchair Accessible)

Wheelchair Accessible, Shopping Opportunities, Easy Activity, Includes snack

Local Connections: Royal Tea at Abkhazi Garden & City Highlights Created by Historian

Moderate Activity, Includes meal

Vancouver Island Wineries & Cider Farm

Aviation museum & aquarium exploration - a discovery exclusive.

From $ 149.95

Craft Brewery & Distillery Experience

Canadian craft brewery evening experience, taste of victoria culinary walking tour.

Shopping Opportunities, Moderate Activity, Includes snack

A Guided Walk into Victoria

From $ 34.95

Guided Canopy Zipline Experience

Victoria by e-bike, canada fishing experience.

From $ 299.95

Ocean Wildlife & Whales Exploration Cruise

From $ 44.95