VICTORIA & SOUTH VANCOUVER ISLAND TOUR
Overview
Experience the relaxed charm of Vancouver Island on this 3-day getaway. Travel at an easy pace as you explore lush gardens, coastal towns, and scenic viewpoints. Stroll along charming streets, take in sweeping ocean views, and discover hidden local gems that showcase the island’s natural beauty and welcoming spirit. With the perfect mix of relaxation, exploration, and West Coast hospitality, this tour invites you to slow down and truly enjoy island life.
Itinerary
Please note that this is a sample itinerary and is subject to change due to unforeseen circumstances, such as weather or unexpected closures.
Vancouver to Victoria
- Depart downtown Vancouver and enjoy a scenic ferry ride through the picturesque Gulf Islands.
- Visit the world-renowned Butchart Gardens — once a limestone quarry, now a vibrant floral masterpiece over a century in the making.
- Arrive in Victoria and join a guided walking tour of the city’s highlights, including Mile 0, Ogden Point, the Fairmont Empress Hotel, and Historic Chinatown with its iconic Fan Tan Alley.
- Check in to your hotel and enjoy free time to explore. Your guide will be happy to share recommendations for restaurants, local breweries, shops, and hidden gems.
- Evening at leisure in Victoria.
Victoria
- Breakfast included at your hotel.
- Spend a full day discovering Victoria at your own pace. Optional activities include whale watching, High Tea at the Fairmont Empress, a scenic seaplane tour, a guided food tour, or a visit to the Royal BC Museum.
- Evening at leisure in Victoria.
Victoria to Nanaimo to Vancouver
- Breakfast included at your hotel.
- Travel north along the scenic Malahat Highway with panoramic views over the Southern Gulf Islands.
- Visit the Malahat SkyWalk — a unique outdoor experience featuring an elevated forest walkway and a 10-story spiral tower offering sweeping 360° views of islands, inlets, and mountains.
- Stop in Duncan, the “City of Totems,” for a brief tour and a chance to browse the Judy Hill Gallery, showcasing authentic Cowichan sweaters and Indigenous art from the Pacific Northwest Coast.
- Continue to Nanaimo for a stroll along the Harbourfront and sample the city’s famous sweet treat, the Nanaimo Bar.
- Board the ferry back to the mainland and return to downtown Vancouver at approximately 6:30 pm, depending on traffic.
* Photos courtesy of ©Malahat Skywalk and ©Tourism Vancouver Island – Mio Monasche
FAQs
What is included in the tour?
The tour includes round-trip ferry transportation, accommodation in Victoria, breakfast at your hotel, admission to Butchart Gardens and the Malahat SkyWalk, and the services of a professional guide.
Is there free time in Victoria?
Yes! You’ll have free time each evening and an entire free day to explore at your own pace or join optional activities such as whale watching or afternoon tea at the Empress Hotel.
How long is the ferry ride to Victoria?
The ferry between Vancouver and Victoria takes approximately 1 hour and 35 minutes and offers beautiful views through the Gulf Islands.
Are meals included?
Breakfast is included at your hotel each morning. Lunches and dinners are not included so you can experience Victoria’s wide variety of restaurants and cafés.
Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes. The pace is relaxed, and the activities are suitable for most travelers. Optional tours may have specific age or mobility requirements.
When do we return to Vancouver?
You’ll return to downtown Vancouver at approximately 6:30 pm on the final day, depending on traffic and ferry schedules.
Duration
Size
Quad
Triple
Double
Single
Highlights
- Sail through the scenic Gulf Islands on a relaxing ferry ride from Vancouver
- Wander through the world-renowned Butchart Gardens, a century-old floral masterpiece
- Discover Victoria’s top landmarks including the Empress Hotel and Historic Chinatown
- Enjoy free time to explore Victoria’s vibrant downtown, shops, and waterfront restaurants
- Visit the Malahat SkyWalk for panoramic 360° views over the Southern Gulf Islands
- Experience local culture in the “City of Totems,” Duncan, and browse authentic Indigenous art
- Stroll the Nanaimo Harbourfront and sample the city’s iconic sweet treat — the Nanaimo Bar
Inclusions
2 Nights hotel accommodation in Victoria- Deluxe mini-coach transportation with air conditioning and large windows
- Experienced, fun and friendly tour guide
- On board commentary provided by your driver/guide
- Walking tour in Victoria
- Butchart Gardens
Malahat Skywalk- Extra discounts on optional activities if you book in advance
2 Nights hotel accommodation in Victoria
Deluxe mini-coach transportation with air conditioning and large windows
Experienced, fun and friendly tour guide
On board commentary provided by your driver/guide
Extra discounts on optional activities if you book in advanceWhat to Bring:
- Sweater or jacket for the sea breeze aboard the ferries
- Light rain coat in case of drizzle/rain (recommended)
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Sunscreen & sunglasses
- Backpack
- Reusable water bottle
- 2 pieces of ID
- Camera (recommended)
- Phone charger (recommended)
