15 Top Tours & Things To Do In Victoria (With Reviews & Prices)

Victoria is a city that packs a punch when it comes to things to do and tours. Its stunning harbor, historic streets, lush gardens, and whale-filled waters make it a magnet for travelers seeking memorable experiences. Whether you’re into wildlife encounters like whale watching, exploring haunted spots after dark, or biking past iconic landmarks, Victoria offers it all.

For example, the Victoria Zodiac Whale Watching Adventure [] combines the thrill of speedboats with the chance to see humpbacks, orcas, and minke whales—an experience that gets your adrenaline going while educating you about marine life.

Meanwhile, the Ghostly Walking Tour [] offers a spooky glimpse into the city’s past, perfect for fans of ghost stories and history alike. Victoria’s diverse options make it a destination with something for all.

Quick Overview

Our list highlights 15 top tours and things to do in Victoria, ranging from whale watching trips like Victoria Whale Watch Tour to historic walking tours and scenic bike rides, including the Victoria City Highlights Bike Tour [] and the Victoria Bites & Sights Walking + Ferry Tour [].

There are also options for family-friendly adventures like ziplining, luxury outings such as wine tours, and seasonal experiences including winter whale-watching. Keep reading to find the perfect experience for your trip.

1. Victoria Zodiac Whale Watching Adventure

Rated 5.0/5 based on 888 reviews, this small-group whale-watching tour offers a personalized experience that’s hard to beat. You’ll hop aboard a zodiac speedboat in Victoria Harbour, equipped with all-weather flotation suits for comfort.

This vessel is built for stability, even in rough seas, giving you a smooth ride while searching for humpback whales, minke whales, and orcas. The tour’s intimate size increases your chances of sighting whales and makes for a more engaging trip.

Many travelers note their guide’s enthusiasm and knowledge, with Captain Raj or George sharing fascinating facts about marine wildlife. The lifetime whale-watching guarantee means if you don’t see whales, you can rebook at no extra cost.

At around $155 per person for three hours, it’s an excellent value for wildlife lovers and those craving an adrenaline rush.

Bottom line: a thrilling, well-organized tour for nature enthusiasts who want a chance to see BC’s marine giants up close.

2. Ghostly Walking Tour in Victoria

With a perfect 5-star rating from 779 reviews, this one-hour after-dark tour explores Victoria’s haunted spots with a talented storyteller.

Starting from the Visitor Information Centre or Market Square depending on the season, your guide recounts spooky tales linked to the city’s historic landmarks, blending history and ghost stories. Naomi or Chris keep things lively with vivid storytelling that appeals to horror fans and history buffs alike.

The tour’s short length makes it ideal for a quick, memorable evening activity, especially when you want to see a different side of Victoria’s charming streets.

It’s priced at just over $15, making it a budget-friendly way to add some spooky fun. Bottom line: a fun, atmospheric walk that reveals Victoria’s mysterious past and dark legends.

3. Victoria Whale Watch Tour

Rated 5.0/5 from 446 reviews, this half-day whale-watching cruise provides a classic BC experience. Departing from Victoria’s inner harbour, you’ll ride aboard a comfortable motorized boat with a naturalist guide who shares insights into local marine ecology.

Your chances of seeing orcas, humpbacks, gray whales, and elephant seals are quite high, especially if you choose a morning or afternoon departure. The tour also offers opportunities to spot sea lions, bald eagles, and otters.

Guests rave about the naturalist’s knowledge and the chance to get close to wildlife in their natural environment. The 3-hour trip at about $125 offers a great balance of adventure and education.

Bottom line: a solid choice for travelers eager to combine wildlife viewing with learning about Vancouver Island’s oceans.

4. COMBO Victoria City Tour & Butchart Gardens & Entry Tix

This five-hour combo tour provides a comprehensive look at Victoria, starting with a one-hour city tour, followed by a self-paced visit to Butchart Gardens—the epitome of floral beauty. Your local guide will point out key landmarks and hidden spots, with hotel pickup and drop-off included.

You’ll spend 2.5 hours exploring the gardens, with options for multiple departure times. The tour is praised for its small group size (max 14), offering a personal experience.

The entry ticket to the gardens isn’t included, so budget accordingly. Guests love the flexibility and the scenic drive through Victoria’s highlights.

At $105, it’s a good value for a full day of sightseeing plus garden strolling. Bottom line: ideal for those who want an immersive mix of city charm and floral splendor.

5. Pedicab Tour of Victoria from Cruise Ship Terminal

Rated 5.0/5 from 430 reviews, this three-hour pedicab tour offers a relaxed, intimate way to explore Victoria’s streets. Your guide will take you through James Bay, Beacon Hill Park, and past the Empress Hotel, with pickup and drop-off right at the cruise terminal. The pedal-powered ride lets you soak in the sights at a leisurely pace, perfect for first-time visitors or those with limited mobility.

Many reviews highlight the personal touch and local knowledge of guides like Alan, Melania, or Adrian, who share stories and take photos along the way.

The tour costs around $178 per person, but the convenience and personalized experience often offset the price. Bottom line: a charming, eco-friendly way to see Victoria’s core neighborhoods at a gentle pace.

6. Victoria City Highlights Bike Tour – Castle, Hoods & Legends

Rated 5.0/5 from 252 reviews, this 2.5-hour bike tour takes you through Victoria’s historic neighborhoods and parks. Starting at historic Huntingdon Manor, you cycle past the Legislative Assembly, Chinatown, Fan Tan Alley, and Moss Rock Park.

The tour offers extraordinary views of the Craigdarroch Castle, known for its looming presence and haunted reputation. You’ll also see one of the tallest totem poles in the world and learn how Victoria’s neighborhoods developed.

Guides like Michael keep the ride informative and enjoyable, with options for regular or e-bikes. The tour is ideal for active travelers wanting a broad overview of Victoria’s history and architecture.

At just over $60, it’s a cost-effective way to combine exercise and sightseeing. Bottom line: perfect for energetic visitors who want a comprehensive city intro on two wheels.

7. Victoria Bites & Sights Walking + Ferry Tour

Rated 5.0/5 from 223 reviews, this 2.5-hour guided tour blends city sights with food tastings. Starting at the Victoria’s Chinatown, you’ll walk through Market Square, Bastion Square, and along the Inner Harbour, sampling local bites like craft beer, local candies, and street food.

The ferry ride around the harbor adds a scenic touch, giving you a different perspective on the city. Guides like Gary or Julie share local stories and history, making this tour engaging and tasty.

It’s especially well-suited for first-timers or travelers with limited time who want a good mix of culture and cuisine.

The price of about $62 makes it accessible for most budgets. Bottom line: a flavorful introduction to Victoria’s culinary and historic charm.

8. Downtown Victoria Food & City Tour

Rated 5.0/5 from 218 reviews, this small-group walking tour focuses on Victoria’s culinary scene. Led by a gourmet guide, you’ll visit beloved local eateries, sampling everything from French macarons to Korean hot dogs and Middle Eastern street food.

The tour starts at the historic Steamship Terminal and continues past the Parliament Buildings, Empress Hotel, and lively neighborhood streets. Many reviewers appreciate the personalized experience and stories about Victoria’s food culture.

The tour lasts about 2 hours and costs around $89, offering a hearty taste of Victoria’s diverse cuisine. Bottom line: great for foodies and those wanting insider knowledge on Victoria’s culinary hotspots.

9. Victoria: Winter Whale Watching & Marine Wildlife Tour

Rated 5.0/5 from 218 reviews, this seasonal winter tour takes you out on a zodiac boat for up-close encounters with humpbacks, seals, and sea lions. Departing from Victoria, you’ll head toward the Juan de Fuca and Haro Strait in search of whales, with a naturalist guiding the trip. The hydrophone lets you hear whale calls, adding an extra layer of excitement.

Many travelers highlight how the tour’s fast boat delivers a thrilling ride while providing informative commentary. Costing about $116, it’s a great winter activity for wildlife lovers willing to brave the cold.

Bottom line: a dynamic, educational tour perfect for those visiting Victoria in cooler months and keen to see marine mammals in action.

10. Historical Victoria Walking Tour

Rated 5.0/5 from 167 reviews, this 1.5-hour guided walk takes you through Victoria’s historic core, including Old Town, Bastion Square, and Chinatown. Led by a local historian, the tour offers a clear narrative of Victoria’s development, with highlights like the public hangings in Bastion Square and stories about the city’s scandals.

The use of headsets ensures you won’t miss a detail, and the walking is moderate. The tour costs just over $16, making it one of the most budget-friendly options.

Reviewers note how informative and well-paced it is. Bottom line: excellent for history buffs and first-time visitors wanting a solid overview.

11. Hip & Hidden Chinatown + Old Town Food Tour Victoria

Rated 5.0/5 from 159 reviews, this 2-hour foodie walk explores Victoria’s Chinatown and Old Town. You’ll visit heritage sites like the Chinese Language School and Gates of Harmonious Interest, then sample dishes from Thai dumplings to Mexican tacos, along with craft beers.

Guides like Brenda share stories about Victoria’s multicultural history while you taste your way through the neighborhood. The tour is ideal for food lovers and those interested in urban history.

The ~$89 price includes lots of bites and fun stories. Bottom line: perfect for travelers keen to combine culinary delights with cultural insights.

12. Zipline Adventure Tour

Rated 5.0/5 from 158 reviews, this 2-hour adventure takes you through the BC rainforest on eight ziplines over 1,000 feet long each. The tour includes an ATV ride and suspension bridges, with guides ensuring safety and fun. It’s ideal for families or thrill-seekers over age 5 wanting an active day outside the city.

Many mention how professional and engaging the guides are, with some describing the experience as “incredible.” Priced at approximately $93, it offers value for the combination of ziplines, forest views, and adrenaline. Bottom line: a memorable outdoor adventure for active travelers looking to add some excitement.

13. The Butchart Gardens Express Shuttle from Downtown Victoria

Rated 4.5/5 from 606 reviews, this easy shuttle makes visiting Butchart Gardens hassle-free. Departing regularly from downtown, you can spend about 3 hours wandering this iconic 55-acre garden at your own pace. The shuttle is perfect for independent travelers who want to avoid rental cars or confusing transit.

Many reviewers praise the efficiency and the stunning beauty of the gardens, especially during peak blooming season. The only extra cost is the garden admission, which is not included.

At $37, this is a budget-friendly way to experience one of Vancouver Island’s top attractions. Bottom line: ideal for visitors wanting a flexible self-guided garden visit.

14. Indulge in a Wine & Food Tour – Cowichan Valley

Rated 5.0/5 from 147 reviews, this six-hour tour visits three or four wineries in the Cowichan Valley, BC’s “warm land.” The day begins with bubbly and baked goods, followed by visits to carefully selected vineyards. You’ll sample wines, paired with cheeses, meats, and a delicious afternoon tea.

The scenic drive over the Malahat Mountain offers great views, making this a relaxed, scenic day for wine lovers. Many guests mention the quality of wines and the friendly guides like Tyco.

At around $125, it’s a good value considering the included tastings and scenic drive. Bottom line: a perfect day for wine connoisseurs seeking both landscape and local flavor.

15. Victoria Whale Watching Tour by Zodiac

Rated 5.0/5 from 125 reviews, this wild Zodiac whale-watching cruise emphasizes close-up action. You’ll ride a fast inflatable boat through the Strait of Juan de Fuca, feeling the spray and thrill of speed as you look for orcas, gray whales, humpbacks, and minke whales.

The boat’s design allows maximum water-level proximity, often resulting in spectacular wildlife sightings. Many reviews point out the friendly, experienced guides like Captain Cam, who ensures safety and fun.

The two-hour trip costs about $111 but delivers a high-adrenaline, immersive experience for those who want a little extra excitement.

Bottom line: for the adventurous who want to get as close as possible to BC’s marine wildlife, this tour hits the mark.

How to Choose Your Perfect Victoria Tour

When selecting your ideal activity, consider your budget, interest level, and how active you want to be. If wildlife is your main goal, the Victoria Zodiac Whale Watching Adventure [] or the Victoria Whale Watch Tour [] are excellent options, especially during whale migration seasons.

For history and culture lovers, the Historical Victoria Walking Tour [] or the Ghostly Walking Tour [] offer memorable insights into Victoria’s past. Those wanting outdoor adventure might enjoy ziplining or biking [] for a more active experience.

And if you’re pressed for time, a combo tour or the shuttle to Butchart Gardens can maximize your sightseeing with minimal hassle.

Final Thoughts

Victoria offers a wide range of tours that suit different interests and travel styles. For wildlife enthusiasts, the whale-watching trips provide unforgettable moments face-to-face with BC’s marine giants. History buffs and ghost-story fans will enjoy exploring Victoria’s darker tales through walking tours.

Food lovers can indulge in tasty walking and foodie tours that showcase local flavors and culinary talents. For active travelers, biking and ziplining add an adrenaline punch to your visit.

Whatever your interests, booking early is wise—especially in peak season—to secure your spot. Whether you prefer the thrill of a zodiac ride or a leisurely garden stroll, Victoria’s tours promise a memorable experience. Choose what excites you most and enjoy all that this charming city has to offer.