Then & Now Walking Tour
Active
2h - 2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
History! Stories! Inside Scoop!
Join us for a 2 - 2.5 hr walking tour of Victoria from the Cenotaph at the Parliament Building to Chinatown. Learn key moments in the history of Victoria, stories about our most colorful inhabitants and discover locations easily missed without a local expert!
Victoria Tours creates memorable narratives from key moments in the history of Victoria. We look forward to sharing incredible local stories with you!
Less than 2 km
Wheelchairs and strollers can be accommodated, but some detours may be required due to the historical nature of some locations
Available options
Then & Now Walking Tour
Pickup included
What's included
Minors 16 years old and under are free of charge
Walking Tour Experience in Victoria
Detailed itinerary
1
Totem poles, Thunderbird Park, Ceremonial House
2
Stop 2
History of the hotel & architect
3
Why Trounce? Morse Code, unique shops & old school arcade
4
Ravine! Dividing line between European and Chinese colonists
5
Courthouse, jailhouse, law offices & hangings
6
Opium, gambling in North America's second oldest Chinatown
What's not included
Please bring your own hydration and be dressed for the weather
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Tripadvisor
5.0
8 reviews
5★
8
4★
0
3★
0
2★
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1★
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Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
Cenotaph (statue of a soldier). The Cenotaph is located on the grounds of the Parliament near the corner of Government St and Belleview St. Please be on the meeting point 5 minutes before start time.
Important notes
Look for your guide with a name tag near the Cenotaph (statue of a soldier on the grounds of the Parliament at the corner of Government St and Belleville St)
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.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Be cautious when using ATMs
- • Avoid leaving drinks unattended
Getting there
By air
- Victoria International Airport • 20 km from Victoria city center
- Comox Valley Airport • 10 km from Courtenay city center
By bus
Victoria, Nanaimo, Campbell River
Getting around
Public transport
BC Transit offers bus services in major cities and towns on Vancouver Island. The services are reliable and affordable.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Downtown Victoria
Downtown Nanaimo
Tofino
Day trips
Cape Scott Provincial Park
200 km from Victoria • Full day or overnight
A remote and rugged coastal park with stunning scenery, old-growth forests, and wildlife.
Goldstream Provincial Park
20 km from Victoria • Half day to full day
A beautiful park featuring waterfalls, old-growth forests, and hiking trails.
Horne Lake Caves
80 km from Nanaimo • Half day to full day
A network of caves offering guided tours and underground adventures.
Festivals
Victoria Jazz Festival • July
Pacific Rim Whale Festival • March
Tofino Ucluelet Winter Music Festival • January
Pro tips
- Visit during the shoulder seasons for fewer crowds and lower prices
- Rent a car for flexibility and access to remote areas
- Pack layers and waterproof clothing for variable weather conditions
- Book accommodations and popular tours well in advance
- Try local seafood and support sustainable fishing practices
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
