Vancouver: Butchart Gardens and Victoria City Tour

Exploring the stunning landscapes and cultural gems of Vancouver and Vancouver Island is an exhilarating adventure. This comprehensive tour takes travelers on a journey through the region’s natural wonders and vibrant cityscapes. From the serene Butchart Gardens to the charming streets of downtown Victoria, this experience offers a well-rounded glimpse into the Pacific Northwest’s diverse offerings. With convenient transportation and curated sightseeing, this tour caters to both first-time visitors and seasoned adventurers seeking to uncover the hidden gems that make this corner of Canada truly exceptional. As the day unfolds, the tour’s carefully crafted itinerary promises to captivate the senses and leave a lasting impression.

This experience made our list of the 25 Best City Tours In Vancouver.

Key Points

• This 12-hour tour covers the famous Butchart Gardens and the city of Victoria on Vancouver Island, including a scenic ferry ride.
• The tour is priced at CZK 30,448 for up to 2 participants and includes hotel pickup/drop-off, garden admission, and free cancellation.
• Highlights include the Sunken Garden at Butchart Gardens, the Empress Hotel and Parliament building in Victoria, and the cultural heritage of Chinatown.
• Travelers should wear comfortable shoes and warm clothing, and bring snacks, water, and cash/credit card for the tour.
• The schedule may be modified due to ferry availability or weather, with the operator communicating any changes in advance.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The "Vancouver to Butchart Gardens and Victoria City" tour provides a comprehensive experience, featuring a visit to the renowned Butchart Gardens and an exploration of Victoria’s historic city center.

Priced at Kč30,448 for up to 2 participants, this 12-hour tour offers free cancellation and the option to reserve without upfront payment.

The itinerary includes a scenic ferry ride across the Georgia Strait, ample time to wander the Butchart Gardens, and a guided tour of Victoria’s top landmarks.

Comfortable shoes, warm clothing, and a camera are recommended to fully enjoy the tour’s highlights, which may be subject to changes due to ferry availability and weather conditions.

Itinerary and Schedule

Kicking off the day at 8:15 am, the tour begins with hotel pickups in Vancouver.

After a 45-minute drive, travelers board the ferry at Tsawwassen for a 1.5-hour crossing to Swartz Bay.

Once on Vancouver Island, the group heads to the renowned Butchart Gardens, where they spend 1.5 hours exploring the stunning floral displays, including the Sunken Garden.

The tour then travels to Victoria’s city center, allowing 1 hour for lunch and 1.5 hours to visit landmarks like the Empress Hotel, Parliament building, and Chinatown’s Fan Tan Alley.

At 4:30 pm, the group departs Victoria, returning to the ferry terminal for the 1.5-hour journey back to Vancouver, arriving at the hotel around 8:30 pm.

Tour Highlights

Butchart Gardens, a world-renowned floral display, captivates visitors with its Sunken Garden and other stunning horticultural exhibits. Exploring this oasis allows travelers to enjoy vibrant colors and serene landscapes.

Beyond the gardens, the tour also visits Victoria’s iconic Inner Harbor, where the elegant Empress Hotel and impressive Parliament building stand as architectural marvels.

Wandering through Fan Tan Alley in Chinatown offers a glimpse into the city’s diverse cultural heritage.

Throughout the day, the scenic ferry ride across the Georgia Strait provides breathtaking views of the Pacific Northwest’s natural beauty.

Inclusions and Amenities

This tour includes a round-trip ferry ride to and from Vancouver Island, providing a scenic and convenient mode of transportation.

The tour also includes:

• Admission to the renowned Butchart Gardens, where visitors can explore the diverse floral displays, including the iconic Sunken Garden.

• Free time to explore the charming city of Victoria, including the picturesque Inner Harbor, the impressive Empress Hotel, and the historic Parliament building.

• Convenient hotel pickup and drop-off, ensuring a seamless start and end to the day.

• The opportunity to immerse in the rich culture and architecture of Victoria’s Chinatown and the unique Fan Tan Alley.

• Ample time for guests to capture stunning photographs and create lasting memories.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Booking and Cancellation

Travelers can book this tour conveniently without upfront payment by reserving their spot now and paying later.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, they can easily adjust their plans if needed. This provides flexibility and peace of mind when booking.

The tour accommodates groups of up to 2 participants, with a total price from Kč30,448.

Regardless of group size, travelers can take advantage of the convenient hotel pickup and drop-off services.

Accessibility and Recommendations

While the tour offers many highlights, it may not be suitable for all travelers. Individuals with mobility impairments may face challenges, as the itinerary involves extensive walking and navigation of gardens and urban areas.

To fully enjoy the experience, visitors are encouraged to wear:

• Comfortable, supportive shoes
• Warm, layered clothing to accommodate changing weather
• A camera to capture the scenic beauty
• Snacks and water to sustain energy levels
• Cash or a credit card for any additional purchases

Plus, the tour schedule may be subject to change due to ferry availability and weather conditions, so flexibility and adaptability are recommended.

Ferry Ride and Transportation

The tour includes a scenic ferry ride across the Georgia Strait, connecting the mainland with Vancouver Island. The ferry departs from the Tsawwassen terminal near Vancouver, taking approximately 1.5 hours to reach Swartz Bay on the island.

Participants will have the opportunity to enjoy the picturesque views of the ocean and coastal landscapes during the crossing.

Upon arrival, the group will transfer to Butchart Gardens, one of Victoria’s top attractions. After exploring the gardens, the tour continues to the city center, where travelers can discover the charming Inner Harbor, Empress Hotel, and other notable landmarks before returning to Vancouver by ferry in the evening.

Tour Schedule Modifications

On rare occasions, the tour schedule may be modified due to factors beyond the operator’s control, such as unpredictable ferry availability or inclement weather conditions.

In such cases, the tour itinerary may be adjusted to ensure the safety and enjoyment of participants. Some potential changes include:

• An earlier or later ferry departure to accommodate schedule changes
• Reduced time at Butchart Gardens or in Victoria city center
• Substitution of alternative sightseeing activities if certain attractions are closed
• Adjustments to pickup or drop-off locations based on traffic or road conditions
• Flexibility in the tour’s timeline to account for unexpected delays.

The operator will make every effort to communicate any schedule modifications in advance and ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience for all guests.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Choose a Pickup Location Other Than My Hotel?

Yes, you can choose a pickup location other than your hotel. The tour operator allows you to specify an alternative pickup spot, such as a nearby landmark or transportation hub, when you book the tour.

What Is the Dress Code for This Tour?

The tour has a casual dress code. Comfortable shoes, warm layers, and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended to ensure guests can fully enjoy the outdoor activities and scenic ferry ride without feeling restricted.

Are There Any Discounts or Packages Available?

There are no specific discounts or packages offered for this tour. However, customers can save by booking in advance and taking advantage of the "Reserve now & pay later" option to secure their spot without upfront payment.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Participants are welcome to bring their own snacks and water on the tour. However, outside food and drinks are not permitted inside the Butchart Gardens. Lunch is not included, so having personal provisions can be convenient during free time in Victoria.

How Many People Are Typically in a Tour Group?

The group size for this tour typically ranges from 2 to 8 participants. The tour is priced per group, allowing up to 2 travelers to join at the base price.

Recap

This Vancouver tour offers an unforgettable experience, showcasing the region’s natural beauty and cultural attractions. Visitors can explore the renowned Butchart Gardens, enjoy Victoria’s city life, and enjoy the convenience of seamless ferry transportation. With stunning views, diverse experiences, and ample photography opportunities, this tour is a must-do for those seeking to discover the best of Vancouver and Victoria in a single day.

You can check if your dates are available here: