Victoria and Butchart Gardens, an Elevated Experience
Traveler rating
4.9/5
Based on 555 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Victoria and Butchart Gardens, an Elevated Experience worth booking?
Victoria and Butchart Gardens, an Elevated Experience is a 13-hour experience in Vancouver, Canada, from $218 per person. It scores 88 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Exceptional”, based on a 4.9/5 rating across 555 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 88 / 100
- Rating
- 4.9/5 (555)
- Duration
- 13 hours
- From
- $218 per person
Experience Victoria with the best of both worlds, a professional driver and a dedicated local step-on guide providing live commentary throughout the journey. You'll enjoy engaging stories, local history, and insider knowledge from departure to return. Travel by land and sea as you journey from Vancouver through the spectacular Gulf Islands before arriving in Victoria. Explore the city's historic streets at your own pace or join the optional guided walking tour to discover hidden gems, fascinating history, and iconic landmarks with your guide. Then, enjoy skip-the-line admission to the world-famous Butchart Gardens, where you'll have time to wander through breathtaking themed gardens. Take advantage of countless photo opportunities showcasing British Columbia's dramatic coastal landscapes To keep you refreshed throughout the day, complimentary bottled water is provided for all guests. Rain or shine, we've got you covered with complimentary umbrellas.
What you get
About this experience
Experience Victoria with the best of both worlds, a professional driver and a dedicated local step-on guide providing live commentary throughout the journey. You'll enjoy engaging stories, local history, and insider knowledge from departure to return. Travel by land and sea as you journey from Vancouver through the spectacular Gulf Islands before arriving in Victoria. Explore the city's historic streets at your own pace or join the optional guided walking tour to discover hidden gems, fascinating history, and iconic landmarks with your guide. Then, enjoy skip-the-line admission to the world-famous Butchart Gardens, where you'll have time to wander through breathtaking themed gardens. Take advantage of countless photo opportunities showcasing British Columbia's dramatic coastal landscapes To keep you refreshed throughout the day, complimentary bottled water is provided for all guests. Rain or shine, we've got you covered with complimentary umbrellas.
What's included
Included
- Exclusive postcard souvenir
- Booster seat
- Admission fees
- Private transportation
- Bottled water
- Step-on Guide
- Optional Victoria walking tour
- In-vehicle air conditioning
- Admission fees
- On-board restrooms
- Wheelchair available upon request
Not included
- Meals
- Lunch
- Multiple languages (check-out our private tours for multilingual options)
What you'll see and do
Vancouver
Your elevated adventure begins in downtown Vancouver as you travel south through the diverse communities of Richmond, Delta, and Tsawwassen. Along the way, your dedicated local step-on guide shares fascinating stories, regional history, and insights into life in British Columbia. Watch the scenery transition from Vancouver's skyline to fertile farmland, blueberry fields, greenhouses, and coastal wetlands near the Canada–United States border before arriving at the BC Ferries terminal.
Pass by without stopping
Board a BC Ferries vessel for a spectacular 90-minute sailing through the Gulf Islands, one of British Columbia's most scenic coastal regions. Enjoy panoramic ocean views from the outdoor decks or comfortable lounges while keeping an eye out for bald eagles, seals, sea lions, porpoises, and, with a little luck, whales.
90 minutes here · Admission included
Victoria
Following a scenic drive into British Columbia's charming capital, you'll arrive in Victoria's picturesque Inner Harbour. Here, you can choose how you'd like to experience the city. Join our optional guided walking tour, included with your ticket, with your dedicated step-on guide for fascinating stories, local history, architectural highlights, and hidden gems throughout downtown Victoria. Prefer to explore independently? Enjoy free time to browse the unique boutiques and cafés along Government Street, stroll the waterfront, visit local attractions, or simply soak up the atmosphere at your own pace. Whichever option you choose, you'll have ample time to experience the charm and beauty that make Victoria one of Canada's most beloved cities.
120 minutes here
Start the optional walking tour at the BC Legislative Assembly Building, completed in 1897. Its copper dome and Romanesque style are illuminated at night by thousands of lights, making it one of Victoria's most iconic landmarks. It remains the working seat of British Columbia's provincial government to this day.
5 minutes here
Empress Hotel National Historic Site of Canada
Continue the walking tour to the iconic Empress Hotel, built by the Canadian Pacific Railway as the crown jewel of Victoria's harbourfront. It remains one of Canada's most celebrated "railway hotels," alongside sister properties like the Banff Springs and Château Frontenac. Today it's renowned for its elegant afternoon tea service, having hosted royalty, dignitaries, and travelers from around the world for over a century. Enjoy a quick photo-op with a beautiful view of Victoria's inner-harbour.
5 minutes here
Government Street
Walk up Government Street, as your guide points out the best restaurants, boutiques, and hidden gems Victoria has to offer.
10 minutes here
Victoria’s Chinatown National Historic Site
Our walking tour ends at Victoria's Chinatown. Dating back to the 1850s gold rush era when Chinese immigrants arrived to build the Canadian Pacific Railway, making it the oldest Chinatown in Canada. Centered around Fan Tan Alley—often cited as one of the narrowest streets in North America—the district was once home to gambling dens, opium factories, and a thriving merchant community. Today it's a vibrant mix of historic architecture, herbal shops, and restaurants that still reflects over 150 years of history.
5 minutes here
Mile Zero
As we pass the western tip of Beacon Hill Park, keep your camera ready for Mile Zero of the Trans-Canada Highway—the official starting point of Canada's longest road, stretching nearly 8,000 km all the way to Newfoundland. Right beside it stands the Terry Fox monument, honouring the young Canadian hero who lost his leg to cancer and decided to run across the country. His Marathon of Hope inspired a nation, and has since raised millions for cancer research. Though Terry never reached this coast, Mile Zero is one of Victoria's most moving and photographed landmarks.
Pass by without stopping
The Butchart Gardens
Skip the ticket lines and immerse yourself in one of the world's most celebrated botanical gardens. A National Historic Site of Canada, The Butchart Gardens features over 55 acres of spectacular floral displays, including the Sunken Garden, Japanese Garden, Italian Garden, Rose Garden, and Dancing Fountain. Enjoy approximately two hours to explore at your own pace while complimentary bottled water helps keep you refreshed.
120 minutes here · Admission included
Finish your day with another beautiful BC Ferries crossing before returning to Vancouver. Relax and enjoy one final opportunity to admire British Columbia's stunning coastline, islands, and marine wildlife while reflecting on a memorable day of history, nature, and unforgettable scenery.
90 minutes here · Admission included
Vancouver
Conclude you day with a quiet ride back to your hotel from the ferry terminal. To thank you for joining us to Victoria, our guide will hand out beautifully designed, nature postcard souvenirs created by a local artist in Squamish.
Pass by without stopping
Where it starts and ends
Hotel pickup
Pickup is included for all travelers. Pickup begins about 30 minutes before departure.
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- en
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 30 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- STAR Sightseeing
Know before you go
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Foldable wheelchairs can be stored in the undercarriage. Wheelchair available upon request.
- Coach buses kneel for easier entry and exit.
- Water bottles provided.
Photos
What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 555 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
The guide
6 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Knowledge and storytelling
6 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Food and drink
2 mentionsThe tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.
Traveler reviews
555 verified traveler reviews for Victoria and Butchart Gardens, an Elevated Experience. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Excellent pick up at...
Excellent pick up at hotel, knowledgeable about the area, friendly, and always make sure we were in the right place.
via Viator
A great trip to Butchart Gardens and Victoria
Byron was a great host, full of anecdotes, relevant history and stories. The coach was clean and modern.
via Tripadvisor
Highly recommended
Joel and Byron were both amazing. Everything was perfect. Very entertaining and informative. Great tour. Highly recommended.
via Tripadvisor
Wonderful experience!
Joel was fun, upbeat, knowledgeable and just made everyone feel welcome and a part of the group. He took care of us from the first second we met him until he dropped us off. Byron was also a very knowledgeable and great bus driver. He knew exactly where to go even when there were roads closed due to a marathon. Book the trip with them as you won’t be disappointed!
via Tripadvisor
Wonderful experience!
Joel and Byron were fantastic. Highly recommend.
via Tripadvisor
Good to know
- Duration
- 13 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Price range
- $218 to $298
- Hotel pickup
- Included for all travelers
- Booked in 30 days
- 194
- Verdict
- Exceptional
Who runs this experience
Operated by STAR Sightseeing, who run 4 experiences we rank across 1 city, with an average Outty Ranking of 77.9 and 1 in the 90+ Club.
See everything STAR Sightseeing runsWhy this scores 88
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Victoria and Butchart Gardens, an Elevated Experience: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Vancouver.
How much does Victoria and Butchart Gardens, an Elevated Experience cost?
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Prices start at $218 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Vancouver usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Victoria and Butchart Gardens, an Elevated Experience take?
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Plan for about 13 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Vancouver is not rushed.
Is Victoria and Butchart Gardens, an Elevated Experience worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 88 out of 100, which we label "Exceptional". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.9/5 across 555 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable most highly reviewed in Vancouver, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Victoria and Butchart Gardens, an Elevated Experience?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is Victoria and Butchart Gardens, an Elevated Experience suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 13-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Victoria and Butchart Gardens, an Elevated Experience?
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Around 194 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Vancouver can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Vancouver and add a light layer if any part of the 13-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Victoria and Butchart Gardens, an Elevated Experience start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Vancouver within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Vancouver?
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On Outty we rank every Vancouver experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include The Grand Bicycle Tour of Vancouver, The Stanley Park Bicycle Tour, Vancouver City Sightseeing Tour: Capilano Suspension Bridge & Vancouver Lookout. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Vancouver?
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Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Vancouver?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
What is included in Victoria and Butchart Gardens, an Elevated Experience?
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Included: Exclusive postcard souvenir; Booster seat; Admission fees; Private transportation; and Bottled water. Not included: Meals; Lunch; and Multiple languages (check-out our private tours for multilingual options). Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Does Victoria and Butchart Gardens, an Elevated Experience include hotel pickup?
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Yes, pickup is offered for every traveler from 62 listed pickup locations in and around Vancouver. Be ready about 30 minutes before the start time.
What languages is Victoria and Butchart Gardens, an Elevated Experience offered in?
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It runs in English. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Victoria and Butchart Gardens, an Elevated Experience?
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Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.
Is Victoria and Butchart Gardens, an Elevated Experience wheelchair or stroller accessible?
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The operator notes: Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller; Specialized infant seats are available; and Foldable wheelchairs can be stored in the undercarriage. Wheelchair available upon request. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to Victoria and Butchart Gardens, an Elevated Experience if the weather is bad?
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This experience depends on good weather. If it is canceled because of poor weather, you are offered a different date or a full refund.
What do travelers say about Victoria and Butchart Gardens, an Elevated Experience?
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Across 555 reviews averaging 4.9 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, knowledge and storytelling, food and drink. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
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