Victoria: Ghost Tour of Old Town and Bastion Square

If you’re visiting Victoria and enjoy stories that send a chill down your spine, this Ghost Tour of Old Town and Bastion Square offers a memorable glimpse into the city’s darker past. For just $17 per person, you’ll spend about an hour wandering through charming streets, listening to tales of murderers, lovers, and spirits who supposedly still linger in Victoria’s historic buildings. Led by engaging guides, this tour combines history, local legend, and a dash of the supernatural—making it an appealing choice whether you’re a skeptic or a paranormal enthusiast.

Two things we love about this tour are the quality of storytelling — many guides, like Fiona and Asher, are praised for their animated, knowledgeable narration — and the atmosphere created by touring in the evening when the city’s lights cast long shadows. Plus, the tour’s affordable price makes it accessible for most travelers. On the downside, the one-hour duration might feel a bit rushed for those who love a more in-depth exploration, but it’s perfect for a quick, interesting glimpse into Victoria’s ghostly legends. This experience suits those who enjoy short, lively walks with captivating stories and want to see Victoria’s historic heart through a slightly spooky lens.

Key Points

• Affordable and Short: At just $17 for an hour-long guided walk, it offers great value.
• Engaging Guides: The tour is highly praised for knowledgeable, lively storytellers like Fiona and Asher.
• Historic and Haunted: Combines Victoria’s architecture with tales of ghosts, murder, and tragedy.
• Perfect for Evening: The darker, twilight hours enhance the spooky atmosphere.
• Accessible Location: Starts right in front of the Visitor Information Centre, easy to find.
• Mixed Reactions on Depth: Some may wish for a longer or more detailed experience but appreciate the concise storytelling.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Victoria’s Haunted History in Old Town and Bastion Square

Victoria’s charm is undeniable, with its picturesque harbor, historic buildings, and vibrant local scene. But beneath that inviting surface lies a reputation for ghosts and ghost stories that have fascinated visitors for generations. This tour, led by Walking Tours by Discover the Past, offers an easy, engaging way to uncover some of that spooky lore while strolling through the city’s historic core.

The Tour Itinerary and Highlights

The tour begins in front of the Visitor Information Centre, directly across from the iconic Empress Hotel—an easy landmark to meet. From there, your guide takes you on a leisurely walk through Victoria’s Old Town and Bastion Square, areas filled with Victorian architecture, cobbled streets, and alleyways that seem perfect for ghost stories.

You’ll pass some of Victoria’s most recognizable landmarks, all while listening to tales of spirits said to haunt the buildings. The stories range from murderous gold rush pioneers to tragic love stories that ended in tragedy, creating a vivid atmosphere that enriches the city’s historic charm. Many reviews highlight guides like Fiona, Brin, Zach, and Asher for their animated storytelling and deep knowledge, which really brings the legends to life.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Two aspects stand out for us. First, the storytelling quality—reviewers consistently praise the guides for their entertaining and informative narration. One reviewer, Joanna from the UK, called the guide “very knowledgeable” and recommended the tour highly. Another noted that Brin was “fantastic,” animated, mysterious, and a great storyteller. These guides don’t just recite facts; they pull you into the stories, making you feel like you’re part of Victoria’s haunted history.

Second, the timing in the evening adds an extra layer of atmosphere. As Hanna from Germany pointed out, doing the tour when it was dark out “added to the mystery”—the shadows and dim lighting help make the stories feel even more real and spooky.

What to Expect During the One-Hour Walk

The experience is designed to be light, engaging, and atmospheric. You’ll walk down charming, historic streets, passing landmarks like the Bastion Square, a historic site that’s often associated with ghostly tales. The guide weaves stories of murderers, lovers, and spirits, some of which are based on legend, others on local lore.

While the tour isn’t long enough to explore every detail of Victoria’s haunted past, it strikes a good balance between entertainment and education. The stories are often gruesome or tragic, and some include tales of murder, betrayal, and tragic love, adding a spine-tingling dimension to the city’s architecture.

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The Experience’s Practical Aspects

At just $17, the tour is very accessible. You reserve easily via the booking platform, with options to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Payment is done at the time of booking, and you can reserve now and pay later, which is ideal for flexible travel plans.

The group size tends to be manageable, with guides able to engage well with the group, keeping the stories lively and interactive. Expect the tour to take place mostly outdoors, so dress for the weather—Victoria can be cool and damp, especially in the evening.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you enjoy history with a spooky twist, this tour is perfect. It’s especially suited for those new to Victoria, as it offers a quick, engaging overview of the city’s dark side. Fans of ghost stories, local legends, and Victorian architecture will find plenty to love. It’s also a great option for families with older kids, given the generally spooky but not overly frightening tales.

The Value of This Ghost Tour

For just $17, you get a professional guided walk full of storytelling, local lore, and atmospheric settings. Compared to other tours that can be quite lengthy or pricey, this one offers compact, interesting content. Many reviews confirm that the guides are the highlight, with their ability to blend humor, mystery, and historical accuracy.

While some might wish for a more in-depth exploration, the concise format keeps the experience lively and engaging. The focus on storytelling means you’ll leave with vivid mental images and a greater appreciation of Victoria’s colorful past—albeit with a ghostly twist.

The Sum Up

This ghost tour of Victoria’s Old Town and Bastion Square is a great way to add a mysterious, fun dimension to your visit. It’s perfect for those seeking a 60-minute introduction to Victorian legends and hauntings, especially in the evening when the city’s ambiance enhances the stories. The guides’ knowledge and storytelling talent elevate the experience from simple sightseeing to a memorable storytelling event.

Travelers who enjoy history, ghost stories, or simply a different way to see the city will find this tour delightful. It’s especially suited for families, first-time visitors, or groups looking for an affordable, entertaining activity that combines the historic charm of Victoria with some spooky fun.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 1 hour, making it a quick but engaging activity perfect for fitting into a busy day.

Where does the tour start?
It begins in front of the Visitor Information Centre, directly across from the Empress Hotel, which is easy to find.

What languages are available?
The tour is conducted in English only, so it’s best suited for English-speaking visitors.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the stories are spooky and include some gruesome tales, many reviews mention it’s suitable for families with older children who can handle a little ghostly horror.

Is it possible to book the tour last-minute?
Yes, thanks to the “Reserve now & pay later” option, you can book the tour close to your planned date without immediate payment.

In the end, this ghost walk offers a fun, atmospheric, and affordable way to experience Victoria’s historic streets through a slightly spooky lens. Whether you’re a fan of ghost stories or just want a lively walk with a local guide, it’s a little adventure that’s well worth the price.

You can check availability for your dates here: