Downtown Victoria’s Historical Heart: A Self-Guided Walking Tour

Vancouver Island , Canada

Downtown Victoria’s Historical Heart: A Self-Guided Walking Tour

Active

(15 reviews)

1h - 2h

All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Explore Victoria’s history from its indigenous roots to the Victorian Era at your own pace with this affordable audio tour.

• Take in the Inner Harbour where the city got its start and Victoria’s Chinatown which was once known for gambling and opium trade
• Hear from producer Michele Davis whose passion for Victoria inspired her to lead guided tours – and to carefully craft this VoiceMap tour
• Do it all in 90 minutes or linger at stops along the way with complete control over when you start and finish
• Get unlimited use before your booking date and after it
• Use the virtual tour option at home

Once you’ve booked, you’ll receive a ticket with instructions and a unique code listed under “Before You Go”. Then simply install the VoiceMap app and enter your code.

The app displays directions to the starting point, and when you’re in the right place, just pop in your headphones and tap start. VoiceMap has automatic GPS playback, with turn-by-turn directions. It also works offline.

Available options

Downtown Victoria’s Historical Heart: A Self-Guided Walking Tour

What's included

VoiceMap App for Android and iOS

Lifetime access to this tour in English

Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata

Detailed itinerary

The tour starts with a walk along the harbour where you'll hear how the city got its start.

Stop 2 Pass by

The tour makes a brief stop in front of the Legislative Assembly of British Columbia. You'll learn about its architect, the building and more before continuing.

The tour briefly stops in front of the Emily Carr Statue. You'll learn about Emily Carr and why she's being honoured before you continue on the walk.

Stop 4 Pass by

The tour stops briefly in front of the Empress Hotel. You'll learn about the hotel before continuing on the walk.

The tour stops briefly in Bastion Square. You'll hear about the square and then you'll have the opportunity to explore it before continuing with the tour.

Stop 6 Pass by

The tour takes you through a portion of Old Town Victoria. You'll learn about the early development of the town while you walk.

The tour takes you through Fan Tan Alley. You'll learn about its unique history.

The tour takes you through Victoria's Chinatown. You'll learn about the area's history and the history of Chinese immigrants that call it home.

Stop 9 Pass by

The tour takes you down Government Street and points out a number of historical buildings and unique shops.

What's not included

Tickets or entrance fees to any museums or other attractions en route

Smartphone and headphones

Transportation

Food and drink

Available languages

Audio guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 3.6

7 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.4

8 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

The tour starts outside the Destination Greater Victoria Visitor Center. You'll hear some history about Victoria BC and how the VoiceMap app works before you start walking.

Important notes

VOICEMAP CODE
───
Please check your email at the address you provided when you made this booking. VoiceMap has sent you an eight character code you'll need to redeem your tour.

This code can be used by every member of your party. If you've booked for three people, for example, three people can download this tour using the same code.

DOWNLOAD INSTRUCTIONS
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Once you've received your code, please follow these steps:
1. Install the VoiceMap Audio Tours mobile app
2. Create an account
3. Select Tour Codes from the menu, then select Enter Codes
4. Enter your code then select Download Now

PLEASE NOTE
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• You can download the tour at any time, before or after your booking date. It’s best to download the tour before you set off for the starting point.
• This tour follows a set route and includes turn-by-turn directions. It works best if you start it in the right place and follow the directions from one location to the next.
• When the download completes, you’ll see a screen with a photo of the starting point and directions to it. The red start button will become active when you are at the starting point.
• Remember to bring your own headphones, unless you have booked a driving tour.

SUPPORT
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For technical support and other queries, please email support@voicemap.me

About Vancouver Island

Vancouver Island is a stunning destination known for its rugged coastline, lush rainforests, and vibrant cities. It offers a unique blend of outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and relaxed coastal living, making it a must-visit for nature lovers and urban explorers alike.

Top Attractions

Butchart Gardens

A world-renowned botanical garden featuring stunning floral displays and themed gardens.

Nature 2-3 hours $30 CAD

Pacific Rim National Park Reserve

A stunning national park featuring rugged coastline, old-growth forests, and world-class surfing.

Nature Full day or overnight Free (parking fees apply)

Whale Watching Tours

Vancouver Island is one of the best places in the world for whale watching, with opportunities to see orcas, humpback whales, and gray whales.

Adventure 3-4 hours $100-$150 CAD

Must-Try Local Dishes

Spot Prawns

Fresh, sweet prawns caught locally and often served grilled or in pasta dishes.

Main Course Contains shellfish

Nanaimo Bars

A no-bake dessert bar with layers of crumbly base, custard-flavored butter icing, and chocolate ganache.

Dessert Contains gluten, dairy, and nuts

Salmon

Fresh, wild-caught salmon often served grilled, smoked, or in sushi.

Main Course Contains fish

Popular Activities

Hiking Surfing Kayaking Whale Watching Beachcombing Spa Day Picnicking Wine Tasting

Best Time to Visit

June to September

This is the best time to visit Vancouver Island for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The weather is warm and dry, perfect for exploring the island's natural beauty.

15°C to 25°C 59°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: English, French, Chinese
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Canadian Dollar (CAD)

Time Zone

PST (GMT-8)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Vancouver Island is generally safe for travelers, but it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.