Historical Landmarks Tour of Victoria Grand City and Craigdarroch Castle

Victoria , Canada

Historical Landmarks Tour of Victoria Grand City and Craigdarroch Castle

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(32 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

This 3-hour tour will introduce you to the beautiful landscapes and scenery of Victoria, in addition to the downtown core near the city's inner harbour. Explore the historical landmarks as you follow your local guide. Stops include the Royal BC Museum, Fairmont Empress Hotel, Chinatown, Victoria's Heritage Mansions, and several shops, plus a guided tour of Craigdarroch Castle.

Admission inside the castle is NOT included in the tour pricing. This is an exterior tour only. Travelers wishing to tour the inside may purchase tickets on site. Visitors MAY possibly be required to walk two blocks from Fort Street to the castle due to local traffic closures in this residential neighbourhood.
*Currently, there is limited availability to tour inside the castle and this subject to change by the Castle Heritage Society.

Available options

5-7 Passengers

1-5 Passengers

Duration: 3 hours<br/>1-5 Passengers<br/>Pickup included

15-20 Passengers

8-14 Passengers

What's included

Driver and Guide

Hotel pick-up/drop-off

Fully narrated tour

Detailed itinerary

Explore the beautiful city of Victoria, known for its historical venues and scenic landscapes. Your 3-hour tour starts with pickup from your Victoria-based hotel or lodging. After meeting your driver and guide, you will make your way to the downtown core near Victoria's inner harbour.

Visit the Royal British Columbia Museum, which features artifacts, galleries, and collections of British Columbia's natural, modern and human history. Afterwards, stop at the Fairmont Empress Hotel, one of Victoria's oldest and most famous hotels. With turn of the century chateau-style architecture, the hotel is located on Government Street facing the Inner Harbour.

Other stops along your tour include Chinatown and Craigdarroch Castle. Victoria is home to the oldest Chinatown in Canada and the second oldest in North America. Listen to your guide as he brings the history and culture of this neighborhood to life. Then make a quick stop at Craigdarroch Castle, a Victorian-era Scottish Baronial mansion established in 1890 as a residence for wealthy coal baron Robert Dunsmuir and his family.

Next, enjoy a leisurely walk in the same gardens as the Queen on your visit to Government House, the home to Royalty during their visits. You'll then venture through the neighborhoods of Oak Bay and finish your tour with a scenic journey on Marine Drive, past beautiful Beacon Hill Park.

Your journey ends with a guided tour of Craigdarroch Castle. This Victoria-era Scottish Baronial mansion is one of Victoria's oldest and most beloved landmarks. The tour will walk through the 25,000 square foot, 30 roomed historic stately home, and display the authentic lavish furnishings from the 1890s, and world-renowned stained-glass windows and intricate woodworkings.

What's not included

Gratuities

Castle Ticket Admission (visit https://thecastle.ca for more info)

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.5

23 reviews

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Tripadvisor 5.0

9 reviews

5★

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Important information

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Wheelchair accessible

Children must be accompanied by an adult

Important notes

Please contact local operator at 250-881-3986 or kikishuffle@shaw.ca to confirm pick-up times and locations.

About Victoria

Victoria, the capital of British Columbia, is renowned for its stunning gardens, historic architecture, and vibrant arts scene. Nestled on the southern tip of Vancouver Island, it offers a charming blend of British heritage and West Coast natural beauty.

Top Attractions

Butchart Gardens

The Butchart Gardens is a stunning collection of floral display gardens, featuring a variety of themed gardens and seasonal blooms.

Nature 2-3 hours $34.95

Royal BC Museum

The Royal BC Museum offers a comprehensive look at the natural and human history of British Columbia through interactive exhibits and artifacts.

Museum 2-3 hours $27

Parliament Buildings

The Parliament Buildings are a stunning example of neoclassical architecture and the seat of the British Columbia government.

Historical 1-2 hours Free (tours may require reservations)

Fisherman's Wharf

Fisherman's Wharf is a bustling waterfront area filled with colorful floating homes, fresh seafood, and unique shops.

Cultural 1-2 hours Free to explore

Fisgard Lighthouse

Fisgard Lighthouse is a historic lighthouse marking the entrance to the Victoria Harbour. It is one of the oldest lighthouses on the West Coast of Canada.

Historical 1-2 hours Free (Fort Rodd Hill has an admission fee)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Spot Prawns

Spot prawns are a local delicacy, often served grilled, poached, or in pasta dishes. They are sweet, tender, and a must-try for seafood lovers.

Main Course Contains shellfish

Saskatoon Berry Pie

Saskatoon berry pie is a sweet and tangy dessert made with local Saskatoon berries, reminiscent of blueberries but with a unique flavor.

Dessert Vegetarian (check for dairy content)

Artisan Craft Beer

Victoria is home to a thriving craft beer scene, with numerous breweries offering a wide range of local and unique brews.

Drink Contains gluten

Popular Activities

Hiking Kayaking Whale watching Spa treatments Beachcombing Picnicking Museum visits Art gallery tours

Best Time to Visit

June to August

Summer is the peak tourist season in Victoria, with warm temperatures and long daylight hours. This is the best time to enjoy outdoor activities and festivals.

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) / PDT (GMT-7) (Daylight Saving Time observed)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Victoria is generally a safe city for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any destination, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
• Use licensed taxis or rideshare services.
• Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night.

Getting there

By air

Victoria International Airport • 20 km from city center

By train

Victoria Station

By bus

Victoria Coach Station

Getting around

Public transport

BC Transit operates an extensive bus network throughout Victoria, making it easy to get around without a car.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Downtown Oak Bay James Bay Fernwood

Day trips

Sidney

20 km from Victoria • Half day

Sidney is a charming seaside village known for its beautiful waterfront, historic buildings, and vibrant arts scene. It's a great place to explore local shops, galleries, and cafes.

Butchart Gardens

25 km from Victoria • Half day

The Butchart Gardens is a stunning collection of floral display gardens, featuring a variety of themed gardens and seasonal blooms. It's one of the most popular attractions near Victoria.

Goldstream Provincial Park

20 km from Victoria • Half day to full day

Goldstream Provincial Park is a beautiful natural area featuring waterfalls, hiking trails, and diverse wildlife. It's a great place for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Festivals

Victoria Day Celebration • May (weekend) Victoria Film Festival • February Victoria Fringe Festival • August

Pro tips

Visit the Butchart Gardens in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the gardens at their best.
Take a stroll along the Dallas Road Waterfront Walkway for stunning views of the ocean and Olympic Mountains.
Explore the historic Chinatown and visit the Fan Tan Alley, the narrowest alley in Canada.
Try the famous fish and chips at Red Fish Blue Fish or the local craft beer at a nearby brewery.
Visit the Royal BC Museum to learn about the natural and human history of British Columbia.