Victoria tours

Things to do in Victoria

Victoria, Canada, carries the echoes of mariners and the unique allure of gardens that defy description. Picture yourself ambling through its quaint avenues where the harbour's briny air blends seamlessly with the floral notes from Butchart Gardens. Your local guide, with an insider's grasp of Victoria's tempo, unveils the city's character far beyond the usual scenic snapshots. Through private tours in Victoria, you explore discreet alleyways where local artisans display their creations and enjoy the freshest seafood at a waterfront spot cherished by locals. Whether meandering through its historic downtown or indulging in a food and wine tour capturing the Pacific Northwest's essence, your guide makes sure you bypass the crowds and truly engage with Victoria’s distinct appeal. If you’re looking for more inspiration, take a look at our curated list of things to do in Victoria. Explore Victoria your way At ToursByLocals, we believe that how you explore is just as important as where you go. That’s why every Victoria tour is private, flexible, and built around you: Move at your own pace, skip the crowds, make connections and follow your curiosity. Find local guides offering private tours in Victoria for every interest, including: History tours: Stroll Fan Tan Alley and Bastion Square as your guide shares stories of early Chinese merchants, the gold rush, and the old jail. Tour the BC Parliament Buildings or the Royal BC Museum to connect artefacts and places with the people who shaped the capital. Architecture tours: Compare the Parliament Buildings and the Fairmont Empress along the Inner Harbour while learning about Francis Rattenbury’s designs. Then explore Rockland’s grand homes and Craigdarroch Castle’s carved staircases, or contrast James Bay’s heritage cottages with newer builds by the waterfront. Art and Culture tours: See totem poles at Thunderbird Park and step into the Emily Carr House to learn about a local icon. Visit the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria and meet makers in Fernwood or along Moss Street, where studios and murals add easy stops to culture tours. The Inner Harbour and downtown are very walkable, and BC Transit buses reach most neighbourhoods. For places like Butchart Gardens, Hatley Castle, or Sooke, you can book a chauffeured tour or ask your local guide about tours with private transportation. This isn’t a one-size-fits-all itinerary, you can tailor your private tour to match your interests, pace and personality with a local who knows Victoria inside and out. Walking tours & neighbourhoods Explore Victoria’s inviting streets on a private walking tour, and consider adding some of its lively neighborhoods to your itinerary with a local guide. There's no better way to get to know a neighborhood than with a local by your side. - Downtown Victoria: Known for its charming blend of historic architecture and modern vibes, this area offers unique shops, diverse eateries, and vibrant street performances. Perfect for families and cultural tourists who appreciate art and history. - James Bay: This neighborhood is one of the oldest residential areas on the west coast. It’s ideal for multi-generational groups with its scenic waterfront and the iconic Fisherman’s Wharf. - Fernwood: For those seeking a meaningful connection with the local arts scene, Fernwood is the place to be. Its colorful murals and community theater make it a cultural hotspot. - Chinatown: As one of the oldest in North America, Victoria's Chinatown is a must-see for cultural tourists. Explore its narrow alleys and authentic Asian cuisine. Day trip ideas from Victoria If you’re based in Victoria, add a few easy day trips to nearby towns and wild coastlines, and mix in tours that match what you like to see and do. Butchart Gardens and Brentwood Bay: Famous floral displays, calm walking paths, and sheltered bay views make this a low-effort, high-reward outing; if you’re into photography, afternoon light on the lawns works well, and if you like a slower pace, your tour can centre on tea, quiet corners, and a short boat look at the inlet. Sooke and East Sooke: Rocky headlands, rainforest trails, and wide beaches give hikers and casual walkers plenty of choice; check tidal pools, watch for eagles along Whiffen Spit, or cool off at Sooke Potholes, and if you prefer short stops over long treks, the viewpoints sit close to the road. Cowichan Valley: Rolling farms, wineries, and cideries suit food lovers who want tastings and easy country drives; add the wooden span of Kinsol Trestle for a flat walk with big river views, and drop into Duncan’s downtown to see the totem collection and local art. Salt Spring Island (Ganges): A scenic ferry ride brings you to studios, small galleries, and a lively market on set days; if you like relaxed browsing and local flavours, sample island cheese and bread in the village, then loop the shoreline for quiet coves and farm stands. A private tour with a local guide is the best way to really get to know a place. Skip the crowds, follow your interests, and see a side of Victoria most travellers miss.