Victoria and Butchart Gardens, an Elevated Experience

Vancouver , Canada

Victoria and Butchart Gardens, an Elevated Experience

Active

(251 reviews)

13h

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

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

This tour is an elevated experienced offered by STAR Sightseeing.
New Coach Buses with air conditioning, power points at every seat and an on board washroom.
Professional driver plus a dedicated Step-On Guide for a more personalized and elevated experience.
Interactive 4D experience.
Optional Guided Walking Tour.
Loaner Umbrellas.
Exclusive Collector Series Souvenir.
45 years experience w Star Chauffeured Services.

Times are all estimates which can change due to circumstances outside our control, such as traffic, ferry schedules, and weather conditions.

Available options

Victoria and Butchart Gardens, an Elevated Experience

Pickup included

What's included

Skip the line

Air-conditioned vehicle

Restroom on board

Detailed itinerary

By land and by sea, experience the scenic beauty of British Columbia’s rugged coastline, famous Butchart Gardens and the beautiful City of Victoria with an elevated fully guided tour.

Departing from Vancouver, you will head south to Tsawwassen terminal, where you will board a BC Ferries vessel for a 90-minute journey through the majestic Gulf Islands. Keep your eyes on the lookout for marine wildlife such as bald eagles, sea lions, and whales, that can frequently be observed in their natural habitat.

After arriving at Swartz Bay terminal on Vancouver Island, enjoy a scenic drive to the Province of British Columbia’s capital City of Victoria, known for its architectural landmarks, scenic inner harbour and abundance of flower beds and hanging baskets. You will have the chance to see key attractions in the city including the iconic Parliament Buildings and the historic Fairmont Empress Hotel. You will have free time to visit the unique shops and cafes along Government Street and the culturally rich area of Chinatown. Feel free to take a stroll along the Inner Harbour to soak in breathtaking views and a glimpse into the local culture.

Stop 3

After spending time exploring Victoria, you will head to the world-renowned Butchart Gardens. Just a few of the words that have been used to describe The Butchart Gardens include “breathtaking”, “astonishing” and “peaceful. Nestled in Brentwood Bay, this botanical wonder features a series of themed gardens, including the expansive Sunken Garden, the Japanese Garden, the Italian Garden, the Rose Garden and the impressive dancing fountain. A designated National Historic Site of Canada, over a million visitors are drawn to the gardens every year.

Continue your adventure as you head back to Swartz Bay to board the ferry back to Tsawwassen and return to Vancouver. This tour is fully guided and showcases the very best of the Pacific Northwest and Southern Vancouver Island.

What's not included

Food and beverages are not included on this tour.

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.9

143 reviews

5★

132

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.9

108 reviews

5★

102

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Specialized infant seats are available

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Foldable wheelchairs can be stored in the undercarriage.

Coach buses kneel for easier entry and exit.

Important notes

Please present ticket to the driver or step on guide at time of initial hotel pick up

About Vancouver

Vancouver is a vibrant coastal city known for its stunning natural beauty, diverse culture, and outdoor activities. Nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the North Shore Mountains, it offers a unique blend of urban living and wilderness adventures.

Top Attractions

Stanley Park

Stanley Park is a 400-hectare public park that boasts stunning views of the ocean, mountains, and the city skyline. It is one of the largest urban parks in North America and offers a variety of recreational activities.

Nature Half day to full day Free (Vancouver Aquarium has an admission fee)

Granville Island

Granville Island is a bustling hub of activity, known for its public market, artisan shops, and waterfront restaurants. It is a great place to sample local food, shop for unique gifts, and enjoy live performances.

Market/Entertainment Half day Free to explore, costs vary for food and shopping

Capilano Suspension Bridge Park

Capilano Suspension Bridge Park offers a thrilling experience with its suspension bridge, treetop walkways, and cliffwalk. It provides a unique perspective of the lush rainforest and offers educational programs about the local ecosystem.

Adventure/Nature 2-3 hours Moderate (around $55 CAD for adults)

Gastown

Gastown is Vancouver's oldest neighborhood, known for its Victorian-era architecture, trendy boutiques, and vibrant nightlife. It is a great place to explore the city's history, shop for unique items, and enjoy a variety of dining options.

Historical/Shopping Half day Free to explore, costs vary for shopping and dining

MuseuM of Anthropology

The Museum of Anthropology at the University of British Columbia is a world-renowned museum that showcases the art and culture of the First Nations peoples. It features an impressive collection of totem poles, carvings, and artifacts.

Museum 2-3 hours Moderate (around $18 CAD for adults)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Sushi

Vancouver is renowned for its high-quality sushi, thanks to its proximity to the Pacific Ocean and a large Japanese community. Fresh, locally-sourced ingredients are used to create delicious sushi rolls and sashimi.

Dinner Contains fish, seafood, and sometimes raw ingredients

Poutine

A Canadian classic, poutine consists of crispy fries topped with cheese curds and smothered in gravy. It's a must-try for anyone visiting Vancouver.

Snack Contains dairy and often meat-based gravy

Japadog

A Vancouver street food staple, Japadog is a hot dog with Japanese-inspired toppings such as teriyaki sauce, seaweed, and bonito flakes. It's a unique and delicious snack to try while exploring the city.

Snack Contains meat and sometimes seafood

Bubble Tea

Originating from Taiwan, bubble tea is a popular beverage in Vancouver. It consists of tea, milk, and chewy tapioca pearls, served either hot or cold. There are many flavors and variations to choose from.

Drink Varies by flavor, often contains dairy and sugar

Popular Activities

Hiking Skiing Snowboarding Rock climbing Kayaking Spa Beach Picnic

Best Time to Visit

June to August

This is the warmest and driest time of the year, perfect for outdoor activities and exploring the city's beaches and parks. It's also the peak tourist season with the most crowds.

15-25°C 59-77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: English, Chinese (Cantonese and Mandarin), Punjabi, Tagalog
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Canadian Dollar (CAD)

Time Zone

PST (GMT-8) / PDT (GMT-7)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

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

Important Precautions:

• Stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Use reputable tour operators and transportation services

Getting there

By air

Vancouver International Airport • 12 km from city center

By train

Pacific Central Station

By bus

Pacific Central Station, Greyhound Bus Depot

Getting around

Public transport

The SkyTrain is a fast, efficient, and affordable way to get around Vancouver. It consists of three lines: the Expo Line, the Millennium Line, and the Canada Line.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Downtown West End Kitsilano Gastown Mount Pleasant

Day trips

Whistler

120 km from Vancouver • Full day to overnight

Whistler is a world-renowned mountain resort known for its skiing, snowboarding, and outdoor activities. It's a popular day trip destination from Vancouver, offering stunning mountain views and a variety of recreational opportunities.

Victoria

100 km from Vancouver • Full day to overnight

Victoria is the capital city of British Columbia, known for its historic architecture, charming streets, and vibrant cultural scene. It's a popular day trip destination from Vancouver, offering a mix of history, culture, and natural beauty.

Steveston Village

25 km from Vancouver • Half day to full day

Steveston Village is a historic fishing village located in Richmond, known for its waterfront views, fresh seafood, and charming shops. It's a popular day trip destination from Vancouver, offering a taste of coastal life and local flavors.

Festivals

Vancouver International Film Festival • Late September to mid-October Celebration of Light • July to August Vancouver Folk Music Festival • Mid-July

Pro tips

Use the SkyTrain and other public transportation options to get around the city efficiently and affordably
Visit Granville Island Public Market for a taste of local flavors and unique gifts
Explore Stanley Park by bike or on foot to enjoy the stunning views and natural beauty
Try local specialties, such as sushi, poutine, and Japadog, for an authentic Vancouver experience
Book accommodations and popular attractions in advance, especially during peak seasons and events