Private Large Group Tour! Butchart Gardens and Victoria City BC

Starting with this private large group tour on Vancouver Island, we’re talking about a well-rounded experience that combines urban charm, historic sites, and world-famous gardens. For around $616 for up to 15 people, you’ll spend about 4 to 5 hours exploring Victoria’s highlights, including a self-guided visit to the spectacular Butchart Gardens. The tour is operated by Olynpix Tour & Transportation, and the trip includes luxurious transportation on a Mercedes bus with leather seats and oversized windows—perfect for soaking in the scenery. Plus, pickup is offered, making the day smooth and hassle-free.

Two things we really appreciate are how the vehicle’s comfort enhances the experience—say goodbye to cramped bus rides—and how the self-guided garden visit allows you to explore at your own pace. We also cherish the attentiveness to detail with extra storage space for strollers, wheelchairs, or bags, making it more convenient for families or travelers with lots of gear.

A possible drawback? The admission fee to Butchart Gardens (CA$42.50 per person) isn’t included in the price, so budget accordingly. Also, since the tour lasts about 4 to 5 hours and includes some walking, it’s best suited for those with moderate mobility or patience for a full day of sightseeing.

This tour is ideal for first-time visitors eager to see Victoria’s top sights comfortably, and for garden enthusiasts who want to experience Butchart Gardens without the hassle of planning. It also suits travelers looking for a private, guided experience that balances scenic views with meaningful insights.

Key Points

• Comfortable transportation: Luxury Mercedes bus with large windows for optimal sightseeing.
• Balanced itinerary: Mix of city highlights and the world-renowned Butchart Gardens.
• Self-guided garden visit: Flexibility to explore at your own pace.
• Local insights: Engaging stories from passionate guides.
• Cost considerations: Admission to Butchart Gardens is extra.
• Ideal for: First-time Victoria visitors, garden lovers, and those seeking a hassle-free, private tour.

An In-Depth Look at the Victoria & Butchart Gardens Tour

When you’re planning a trip to Vancouver Island, Victoria is often at the top of the list. This tour offers the perfect way to see the city’s most engaging sights in a relaxed, comfortable manner. Let’s walk through what you can expect, starting with the transportation.

The Comfort of Mercedes Transportation

Traveling on a Mercedes touring bus makes a big difference. The leather seats are surprisingly plush, and the oversized windows mean you won’t miss a thing—whether it’s the Victorian architecture or the sweeping ocean views. Plus, the onboard storage ensures your bags, strollers, or wheelchairs don’t clutter your space. This level of comfort allows you to focus on the scenery, not on fidgeting or adjusting cramped seats.

The Itinerary: An Authentic Taste of Victoria

The tour’s stops are thoughtfully chosen to give you a well-rounded snapshot of Victoria’s history, culture, and natural beauty.

Victoria’s Chinatown marks the beginning, offering a chance to see Canada’s oldest Chinatown. Here, you’ll get a quick but vibrant glimpse of a neighborhood that’s been alive since the 1850s. The Gate of Harmonious Interest and the narrow Fan Tan Alley are highlights, giving you a feel for Victoria’s multicultural past.

Next, you’ll visit the Legislative Assembly of British Columbia—a stunning building with copper domes and grand stonework. It’s one of the most photographed landmarks, and the stop offers a chance to snap a few pictures and hear about the province’s government history.

Fisherman’s Wharf is a colorful, lively spot along the waterfront. Bright houseboats, fresh seafood, and the salty sea breeze create a lively, authentic atmosphere. It’s a perfect quick stop to soak in the local vibe.

Driving along Dallas Road, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of the ocean, rugged cliffs, and sandy beaches. This scenic drive is a highlight, giving a sense of Victoria’s natural setting.

Mile Zero is the starting point of the Trans-Canada Highway, symbolizing the beginning of many adventures. Standing here, you’ll feel connected to the vastness of Canada’s road network and the dreams it inspires.

Then, we arrive at Beacon Hill Park, a lush, peaceful green space right in the city. The park is known for its vibrant gardens, scenic waterfront, and wildlife—an oasis for locals and visitors alike.

The Beacon Hill Totem Pole is impressive standing over 127 feet tall—the tallest Indigenous carved freestanding totem pole in the world. It’s a powerful symbol of local First Nations culture and craftsmanship.

Government House comes next, with its beautifully landscaped gardens and historic charm. It’s the official residence of British Columbia’s lieutenant governor, and a lovely spot to imagine the political heart of the province.

The enchanting silhouette of Craigdarroch Castle provides a fairy-tale backdrop, with its turrets and stone walls. Though the entrance fee isn’t included, the exterior alone is photogenic—like something out of a storybook.

A brief stop at Mount Tolmie Park treats you to panoramic views of Victoria, the Salish Sea, and distant Olympic Mountains—an excellent photo opportunity.

Finally, the tour culminates at Butchart Gardens, Victoria’s most visited attraction. Here, you’ll spend around two hours exploring 55 acres of breathtaking floral displays, fountains, and themed gardens. The self-guided visit allows you the freedom to linger or move at your own pace, soaking in the vibrant colors and fragrant blooms.

The Self-Guided Butchart Gardens Experience

While the tour price doesn’t include admission, purchasing tickets in advance (CA$42.50) can save you time. The gardens are a highlight, with multiple themed areas—Japanese, Italian, Sunken Garden—and plenty of photo-worthy spots. The self-guided aspect means you can prioritize your favorite sections, take endless photos, or just relax among the blooms.

The Guided Experience and Local Insights

Throughout the day, your guide (whose stories and insights we found engaging) will share tidbits about Victoria’s history, architecture, and local culture. Their passion adds a layer of depth to the sightseeing, making the experience more meaningful than just passing by sights.

The Duration and Group Size

With a duration of about 4 to 5 hours, this tour is manageable but packed with highlights. The group size of up to 15 (or even 19) ensures you get personalized attention, without feeling lost in a crowd. The private nature of the tour means your questions are welcomed, and your schedule is flexible within the itinerary.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re visiting Victoria for the first time, this tour hits all the key spots efficiently. Garden lovers will find the visit to Butchart Gardens a real highlight, especially with the self-guided freedom. Families or groups with mobility considerations will appreciate the private, comfortable transportation and extra space onboard. It’s also a good fit for travelers who want to learn about the city through stories and local insights, rather than just sightseeing from a bus window.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

This private tour offers a well-balanced mix of city highlights and natural beauty, all delivered in comfort and style. The vehicle’s luxury, the flexibility of a self-guided garden visit, and the personalized guide make it a thoughtful choice for those wanting a relaxed, authentic experience of Victoria.

While the extra cost of admission isn’t included, the overall value lies in the convenience, comfort, and curated itinerary. It’s especially suited for first-timers, garden enthusiasts, or anyone who prefers their sightseeing in a small, private group.

If you’re after a scenic, hassle-free day on Vancouver Island that combines history, culture, and breathtaking gardens, this tour will serve you well. It’s a chance to see a lot without the stress of planning, and to leave with a richer appreciation of Victoria’s charm.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes private transportation on a Mercedes bus with leather seats and large windows, plus pickup service.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience runs about 4 to 5 hours, including the time spent at each stop and the self-guided visit at Butchart Gardens.

What’s not included in the price?
Admission to Butchart Gardens (CA$42.50 per person) is not included but can be purchased separately. Also, meals and restroom facilities on the bus are not provided.

Can I bring strollers or wheelchairs?
Yes, there’s extra onboard space for strollers, wheelchairs, or bags, but it’s best to give advance notice to ensure space is available.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, especially since there’s extra space for strollers and the itinerary includes outdoor and scenic stops that kids can enjoy. Booster seats are available upon request for bus safety.

What if the weather is bad?
Since the experience is outdoors, poor weather could affect certain stops. The tour is confirmed most weather conditions, but in case of cancellation, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

This guided tour balances comfort, authentic sights, and the flexibility of a self-guided garden visit, making it a great choice for those wanting an immersive, relaxed day in Victoria.