Victoria, British Columbia, stands out as a prime destination for tour enthusiasts thanks to its stunning coastline, abundant marine life, historic neighborhoods, and lush gardens. Whether you’re eager to see whales breach the surface, explore hidden alleyways with local tastings, or soar above the city in a seaplane, Victoria offers something memorable for every traveler. We’re particularly fond of tours that combine wildlife with storytelling—like the Victoria: 3-Hour Whale Watching Tour, which offers a quick yet exhilarating glimpse into BC’s wild side, and the Victoria: Covered Whale Watching Adventure with Free Photos, known for its comfort and guaranteed sightings. For a taste of local cuisine along with history, the Victoria Bites and Sights Tour combines tastings with a scenic ferry ride, giving you a well-rounded experience.
Victoria’s tour scene is diverse—ranging from half-day city explorations to full-day excursions, with a special emphasis on wildlife, gardens, and local culture. Whether you prefer high-speed zodiacs or peaceful garden strolls, there’s a great option waiting. To help you pick the best fit, here’s a detailed review of the top tours in Victoria.
1. Victoria: 3-Hour Zodiac Whale-Watching Tour
This 3-hour whale watching tour from Victoria takes you aboard a 12-passenger zodiac to explore the Salish Sea’s wildlife. It’s perfect if you’re looking for an active, intimate experience with the ocean and its creatures. The guide shares insights about BC’s marine life, including orcas, humpbacks, and transient whales, making it a hit for nature lovers. The zodiac’s speed and maneuverability mean you can cover more water, and the smaller group ensures personalized attention. Reviews highlight the excitement of feeling the wind and seeing whales within close range, with a 4.6/5 rating from over 600 reviews. The price of $138 offers good value considering the lively pace and expert guidance.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers who want a quick, energetic wildlife adventure with a small group and plenty of wildlife sightings.
2. Victoria: Covered Whale Watching Adventure with Free Photos
This four-hour cruise on a fully covered catamaran guarantees a comfortable and comprehensive experience. It’s designed for travelers who want to stay warm in a heated indoor cabin while enjoying outdoor viewing on sundecks. The boat’s three viewing areas and onboard snack bar keep everyone engaged, regardless of weather. One of the key benefits is the guaranteed whale sightings, which means you won’t leave empty-handed. Plus, an included photo package ensures you’ll have lasting memories of this trip. With a 4.7/5 rating from 374 reviews, guests praise the boat’s stability and the captain’s ability to position the boat for prime wildlife viewing.
Bottom line: Best suited for those who prioritize comfort and reliability in whale watching, especially if weather might be chilly or rainy.
3. Victoria: 3-Hour Whale Watching Tour
On this 3-hour boat tour, you’ll enjoy a spacious Ocean Cruiser with 360-degree views, perfect for photography and observation. The vessel offers both indoor heated seating and outdoor decks, along with restrooms and a friendly crew. The naturalist onboard shares detailed info about orca, humpback whales, and other marine life, making it educational as well as exciting. The tour lasts between 3 and 3.5 hours, allowing plenty of time to spot whales and seabirds. Passengers consistently rate it highly—4.8/5 from 270 reviews—appreciating the comfortable, well-organized experience.
Bottom line: Great for travelers seeking a longer, comfortable cruise with excellent viewing options and lively narration.
4. From Victoria: Whale Watching Trip on Covered Boat
This 3-hour tour on a covered vessel offers an informative, relaxing wildlife cruise led by marine naturalists passionate about Vancouver Island’s waters. It’s perfect for those who want to learn about humpback whales, orcas, and other marine animals in a comfortable setting. The boat’s indoor and outdoor viewing spaces mean you can stay warm while still enjoying the sea air. Plus, each tour includes a free photo package, making it easy to share your experience. With a 4.6/5 rating from 407 reviews, travelers praise the naturalists’ enthusiasm and the boat’s cozy atmosphere.
Bottom line: Excellent choice for families or anyone wanting a relaxed, educational wildlife experience with reliable wildlife sightings.
5. From Victoria: Whale Watching Tour by Zodiac Boat
For the adventurous, this 3-hour zodiac whale watching tour promises an open-air, high-speed ride across the Salish Sea. It’s a lively and dynamic way to see whales and marine life, with local guides sharing expert insights. The zodiac suits those who want a dose of adrenaline while spotting orcas and humpbacks. The included floatation suits keep you warm, even in chilly conditions. With a 4.7/5 rating from 221 reviews, thrill-seekers and wildlife enthusiasts love the fast-paced nature and the chance to get close to nature.
Bottom line: Best for active travelers who want a quick, exciting encounter with wild BC waters, minus the crowds.
6. Victoria Bites and Sights Tour with Food, Drinks and Ferry
This 2.5-hour tour combines delicious BC-inspired food and drinks with a scenic ferry ride and a walk through Victoria’s historic streets. It’s perfect if you enjoy culinary adventures paired with cultural exploration. You’ll visit local venues, sample bites, and learn about Victoria’s colorful history, from the arrival of settlers to the city’s modern charm. The ferry ride gives you a fresh perspective of the Inner Harbour, and the small group format ensures an intimate experience. With a stellar 4.9/5 rating from 109 reviews, this tour is praised for its tasty offerings and friendly guides.
Bottom line: Ideal for food lovers who want a relaxed, social way to see Victoria’s sights and taste local flavors.
7. Victoria: 2-Hour Food and History Tour with Tastings
This quick but rich 2-hour tour explores Victoria’s Old Town and Chinatown. It’s perfect if you want a compact overview of the city’s history, architecture, and culinary scene. You’ll walk through Fan Tan Alley, Canada’s narrowest street, and visit local vendors offering samples of Asian cuisine, regional snacks, and beverages. The guide shares stories of Victoria’s historic development, making the tastings even more meaningful. Guests rate it 4.9/5 for its mix of history and food.
Bottom line: Great for a short, engaging taste of Victoria’s past and present, especially if you’re keen on local food and cultural stories.
8. Vancouver to Victoria Seaplane Day Trip + Butchart Gardens
This full-day adventure kicks off with scenic seaplane flights between Vancouver and Victoria, offering spectacular aerial views of mountains and ocean. Once in Victoria, you’ll visit the famous Butchart Gardens and enjoy a guided coach tour through the city’s highlights. It’s perfect for travelers wanting a luxurious, hassle-free way to combine travel, sightseeing, and garden beauty. The 8-hour day trip at $504 per person is pricier but offers unmatched convenience and stunning vistas. Guests often comment on the jaw-dropping aerial views and the peaceful beauty of the gardens.
Bottom line: Best for those seeking a seamless, scenic, and all-inclusive day trip from Vancouver.
9. Victoria: City Highlights and Butchart Gardens Tour
This 4-hour guided tour offers a balanced look at Victoria’s top sights, including the Butchart Gardens and key landmarks like the BC Legislative Buildings and Royal BC Museum. The tour includes a drive through Beacon Hill Park and a two-hour self-guided visit to the gardens. It’s a good fit for travelers wanting both a structured overview and free time to explore at their own pace. With a 4.6/5 rating, reviewers appreciate the mix of scenic driving, cultural insights, and garden beauty.
Bottom line: Suitable for those who want a guided overview with some free time to explore Victoria’s elegant gardens and historic sites.
10. Victoria, BC: 3-Hour Ultimate Whale & Marine Wildlife Tour
This 3-hour tour emphasizes marine wildlife with a focus on killer whales, humpbacks, and other species. Led by marine biologists, it combines education and entertainment, offering a deeper understanding of BC’s waters. The purpose-built vessel provides excellent unobstructed views, and the naturalist guides ensure you learn as you watch. The 4.5/5 rating reflects strong reviews for its informative approach and successful whale sightings.
Bottom line: Perfect for wildlife enthusiasts who want a detailed, educational experience with expert commentary.
11. Telegraph Cove: Whale Watching Adventure with Free Photos
This 3-hour adventure departs from Telegraph Cove, a renowned whale-watching hub. The semi-covered vessel is spacious, and the trip includes a whale sighting guarantee, giving peace of mind to travelers. The onboard tea, coffee, and hot chocolate keep everyone comfortable as you search for orcas, humpbacks, and other marine life. The 4.6/5 reviews highlight the professionalism of the crew and the likelihood of sightings.
Bottom line: Ideal if you want a reliable, comfortable, and well-organized whale-watching experience from an iconic location.
12. Victoria, BC: City Tour and Butchart Gardens Combo Tour
This 5-hour combo tour combines a guided city tour of Victoria with a visit to the stunning Butchart Gardens. It includes stops at Government House, West Coast Castles, and Beacon Hill Park, plus two hours at the gardens. The tour offers rich historical insights along with the chance to enjoy vibrant floral displays. Guests appreciate the front-door pickup and the comprehensive nature of the day.
Bottom line: Great for travelers wanting a full, well-rounded experience covering city highlights and garden beauty.
13. Victoria: Hop-On-Hop-Off Sightseeing Bus Tour
This 3.5-hour ride in an open-top double-decker bus allows you to explore Victoria at your own pace. With 15 stops and 24-hour access, you can hop off at key landmarks like Chinatown, the Inner Harbour, and the Royal BC Museum. It’s perfect for flexible sightseeing, especially if you want to customize your itinerary without rushing. The 4.2/5 rating indicates a solid choice for casual travelers.
Bottom line: Best for those who prefer a flexible, overview-style tour with the freedom to explore independently.
14. Victoria: Extended Panorama Scenic Seaplane Tour
This 45-minute scenic flight offers sweeping views of Victoria’s coastline, the Olympic Mountains, and the Saanich Peninsula. It’s an unforgettable way to see BC’s rugged landscape from above, perfect as an add-on or a special treat. The longer flight time compared to typical scenic flights ensures you get a comprehensive aerial experience. Ratings of 4.7/5 reflect its popularity among travelers seeking a bird’s-eye view.
Bottom line: Ideal for those who want a quick but breathtaking aerial tour to enhance their Victoria visit.
15. Victoria: Chinatown and Old Town Food Tour with Tastings
This 2-hour tour takes you through Victoria’s oldest neighborhoods, sampling dishes from local, modern restaurants. You’ll explore Fan Tan Alley, Canada’s narrowest street, and discover local stories behind Chinatown’s colorful history. The variety of cuisine—South Indian, Thai, Mexican, and more—keeps the experience lively. With a 4.8/5 rating, it’s praised for its tasty food and engaging storytelling.
Bottom line: Perfect for foodies who want to experience Victoria’s culinary diversity alongside its historic streets.
16. Victoria: Ghost Tour of Old Town and Bastion Square
This 1-hour ghost tour reveals Victoria’s haunted past through chilling stories told by storytellers as you walk through Old Town and Bastion Square. It’s a fun, spooky way to uncover Victoria’s darker side, with tales of gold rush killers and tragic love stories. The 4.8/5 reviews highlight how engaging and atmospheric the tour is, making it a hit for those interested in paranormal legends.
Bottom line: Best for night owls and history lovers who enjoy a spooky twist to Victoria’s past.
How to Choose the Best Tour for You
When selecting a tour in Victoria, consider your interests and how much time you want to dedicate. Wildlife lovers might prioritize whale-watching tours or seaplane scenic flights, while foodies may enjoy the food and history walks or culinary neighborhood tours. For those with limited time, a hop-on-hop-off bus offers maximum flexibility, whereas garden lovers should not miss the Butchart Gardens combo. Book early, especially for popular experiences like whale watching or seaplane trips, to ensure availability.
Victoria provides a rich variety of tours that cater to different interests. Whether you want to witness whales breach the surface, savor local flavors, explore historic streets, or see the city from above, you’ll find something that fits your style. For wildlife lovers, the Victoria: 3-Hour Whale Watching Tour and Victoria: City Highlights and Butchart Gardens Tour are standout options, offering memorable experiences for all budgets. For a more relaxed, comfort-focused day, the Covered Whale Watching Adventure and Seaplane Day Trip make excellent choices.
Whatever your interests, Victoria’s diverse tours promise memorable stories and beautiful sights—so don’t wait to book your favorite!