Private Tour of Gorgeous Victoria and to Butchart Gardens! (4 hr)

If you’re considering a quick yet thorough way to see the best of Victoria, this private 4-hour tour might just be your answer. We haven’t personally taken it, but from what travelers say and the detailed itinerary, it sounds like an excellent option for those who want a personalized experience without feeling rushed. What really stands out is the private guide aspect—imagine having someone dedicated solely to your group’s interests, sharing insider stories and adjusting the stops to suit your pace. Plus, the inclusion of Butchart Gardens, one of the most iconic spots in the area, makes this tour especially appealing for garden lovers or anyone wanting a taste of Victoria’s floral splendor.

Two features we especially like are the flexibility of choosing your tour time—morning or afternoon—and the fact that it offers transport tailored to just your group. That means no waiting for big buses or crowded groups, and you can enjoy Victoria on your own terms. The downside? The price point, at about $423 for up to 10 people, might seem steep for some travelers, especially since admission to Butchart Gardens isn’t included in the base price. But if you value comfort, personalized attention, and flexibility, many find it well worth the cost. This experience suits travelers who prefer a more intimate, tailored look at Victoria, especially if you’re traveling in a group or with family and want to avoid the crowds.

Key Points

• Private guide means personalized attention and a flexible itinerary
• Includes iconic sights like Fisherman’s Wharf, Butchart Gardens, and the Inner Harbour
• Optional add-ons like the Butterfly Gardens and exterior views of Craigdarroch Castle
• Good for small groups up to 10 people, ensuring a comfortable experience
• Timing options allow you to customize your day to morning or afternoon
• Cost includes private transportation and bottled water, adding convenience

A Closer Look at the Tour Itinerary

Fisherman’s Wharf: A Colorful Welcome to Victoria

Your tour kicks off with a quick visit to Fisherman’s Wharf. It’s a lively, charming spot filled with floating homes, boats, and floating restaurants. The reviews highlight how much guests appreciated this stop, with one saying, “We loved having this private tour since we were a party of 7 traveling with an infant. Lynda was an awesome guide who really cared about us having a great experience.”

While only a 10-minute stop, it’s enough to soak in the quirky vibe of this eclectic spot. It’s a perfect introduction to Victoria’s maritime character, and the fact that it’s free makes it a nice, low-pressure start. Plus, your guide will likely share stories about the area’s history and local life—something you might miss if exploring on your own.

Drive-by of the Legislative Buildings

After Fisherman’s Wharf, you’ll pass by Victoria’s historic Legislative Buildings. No entry, but the exterior is impressive enough to warrant a quick glance. It’s a great photo op, and your guide will likely share some tidbits about its history and architecture—adding context to your visit.

The Showstopper: Butchart Gardens

The crown jewel of this tour is the visit to Butchart Gardens. Spanning 55 acres, it’s a feast for the senses with lush floral displays, tranquil ponds, and ornate fountains. Depending on the season, you’ll see the Sunken Garden, Japanese-style areas, and Rose Gardens, which are all designed to offer visual pleasure and serenity.

Travelers praise this part of the tour, with one stating, “The Gardens were absolutely beautiful. Highly recommend it.” Keep in mind, though, that the admission is not included, costing around CAD $10-20 or up to CAD $42.75 per person if you choose to visit independently. If you’re a garden enthusiast or just appreciate natural beauty, this stop is worth every penny.

Interestingly, some guests opt for a variation where instead of visiting Butchart Gardens, they explore the Victoria Butterfly Gardens, especially if they’re traveling with children or prefer indoor attractions. It’s a flexible option that keeps the experience enjoyable regardless of weather or interest.

Craigdarroch Castle: A Taste of Victorian Elegance

Next, you’ll pass by Craigdarroch Castle from the outside. Built in 1890, this Scottish Baronial mansion offers a glimpse into the lavish lifestyle of Victoria’s past elite. While the tour only includes an exterior view, the architecture alone impresses many visitors. If you’re keen and have time, the interior tours are available separately, but that’s not part of this specific experience.

Exploring Canada’s Oldest Chinatown and Fan Tan Alley

Victoria’s Chinatown is the oldest in Canada, and your guide will drive you through this historic district, highlighting Fan Tan Alley—the narrowest alley in Canada. One reviewer called it “a very well-maintained historic area,” and it’s a fun spot to snap photos. This part of the tour offers a bit of local flavor and history without requiring extra time or effort.

Inner Harbour and Terry Fox Statue

The tour wraps up with a drive around the Inner Harbour, one of Victoria’s most picturesque spots. You’ll enjoy views of boats, historic buildings, and the waterfront. The guide might also stop for photos at Mile Zero and the Terry Fox Statue, commemorating the Canadian hero who began his marathon effort here. It’s a meaningful, scenic way to end your sightseeing, giving you a sense of the city’s pride and beauty.

What You Can Expect from the Experience

The essence of this tour lies in its personalized approach. Unlike large bus tours, this private experience means your guide can tailor the stops based on your interests and pace. Reviews emphasize the quality of guides like Linda and Melanie, who are praised for their knowledge and friendly demeanor. Having a private vehicle also means you avoid the hassle of navigating or waiting for other travelers, making for a more relaxing day.

The timing is flexible—whether you prefer to start in the morning or in the afternoon. The duration, about four hours, is enough to get a solid taste of Victoria’s highlights without feeling rushed. The inclusion of bottled water and private transportation adds a layer of comfort that many travelers find worthwhile.

Cost and Value

At $423.13 for up to 10 people, this tour might seem pricey, but when you factor in the private guide, transportation, and the exclusivity of the experience, it offers good value. It’s particularly appealing if you value getting personal attention and prefer to customize your stops rather than joining a larger group.

While admission to Butchart Gardens isn’t included, the cost is reasonable compared to the overall experience, especially considering how much time you’ll spend there and the convenience of having everything arranged for you. If you love gardens, history, and scenic drives, this tour hits many of the right notes.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour suits travelers who appreciate a personalized experience and want to make the most of their limited time in Victoria. If you’re traveling with family, friends, or a small group and prefer flexibility and comfort, it’s an excellent choice. The guide’s knowledge and friendly approach have been highly praised, so anyone who enjoys storytelling and local insights will enjoy this.

It’s also well-suited for those arriving on a cruise or with limited time but still wanting a comprehensive taste of Victoria’s highlights. The optional add-ons like the Butterfly Gardens provide options for those with specific interests or weather considerations.

However, if you’re on a strict budget or prefer a more independent, self-guided experience, this might feel a bit costly. And if you’re especially eager to explore interior attractions like Craigdarroch Castle or the Gardens in depth, you might want to consider other options or add on separate tickets.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families traveling with children?
While it’s a private tour, it’s generally flexible and can be suitable for families. The stops include outdoor sights and indoor gardens, and the guide can tailor the experience as needed.

How long is the visit to Butchart Gardens?**
You’ll spend about 1 hour and 30 minutes exploring the gardens, which is enough to see some key areas like the Sunken and Rose Gardens, without rushing.

Are the admission fees included?
No, the entrance to Butchart Gardens is not included in the tour price, but it’s usually around CAD $10-20, or up to CAD $42.75 if you choose to visit independently.

Can I choose the tour time?**
Yes, you can select from morning or afternoon options to best fit your schedule.

What does the private transportation include?**
Your own host/driver will take you around Victoria, providing bottled water and a comfortable experience.

Is this tour good for solo travelers?
It’s designed for groups up to 10, so solo travelers might find the private guide a bit expensive for just themselves, but it’s possible if you prefer a personalized experience.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.

Final Thoughts

This private Victoria tour packs a lot of highlights into just four hours, and the personalized approach makes it stand out from larger group or shuttle tours. The flexibility, private guide, and scenic stops like Butchart Gardens and Fisherman’s Wharf create a balanced mix of natural beauty, history, and local flavor.

It’s a fantastic choice for travelers who want a curated, comfortable experience—especially if you’re traveling with a small group or family. The reviews reinforce the value, with many praising the guides for being knowledgeable, friendly, and accommodating.

While the price tag might be a consideration, the level of attention and the ease of having everything organized make it a worthwhile option for those who prioritize quality and personalized service. If you’re visiting Victoria and want to see its key sights without the crowds and with a local expert at your side, this tour could be just the ticket.

Happy exploring, and may your Victoria adventure be full of lovely surprises!