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Tours & experiences

Historical Landmarks Tour of Victoria Grand City and Craigdarroch Castle

About this experience

This 3-hour tour will introduce you to the beautiful landscapes and scenery of Victoria, in addition to the downtown core near the city's inner harbour. Explore the historical landmarks as you follow your local guide. Stops include the Royal BC Museum, Fairmont Empress Hotel, Chinatown, Victoria's Heritage Mansions, and several shops, plus a guided tour of Craigdarroch Castle.

Admission inside the castle is NOT included in the tour pricing. This is an exterior tour only. Travelers wishing to tour the inside may purchase tickets on site. Visitors MAY possibly be required to walk two blocks from Fort Street to the castle due to local traffic closures in this residential neighbourhood.
*Currently, there is limited availability to tour inside the castle and this subject to change by the Castle Heritage Society.

At a glance

  • Duration: 3 hr
  • Private experience

Choose your tour option

Select a date and travellers to compare current prices and departure times.

8-14 Passengers
8-14 Passengers
Pickup included
5-7 Passengers
5-7 Passengers
Pickup included
1-5 Passengers
Duration: 3 hours
1-5 Passengers
Pickup included
15-20 Passengers
15-20 Passengers
Pickup included

Plan your experience

Time on the tour3 hr
Getting therePickup offeredSee pickup details
Tour arrangementPrivate experience

Set aside 3 hr for the experience itself, with additional time to reach your meeting or pickup point.

Compare the available options before choosing: their itinerary, inclusions and pickup arrangements can differ. Check the price for your date and whole group.

Before you go

  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

What is included

  • Driver and Guide
  • Hotel pick-up/drop-off
  • Fully narrated tour

Not included

  • Gratuities
  • Castle Ticket Admission (visit https://thecastle.ca for more info)

Itinerary and highlights

Explore the beautiful city of Victoria, known for its historical venues and scenic landscapes. Your 3-hour tour starts with pickup from your Victoria-based hotel or lodging. After meeting your driver and guide, you will make your way to the downtown core near Victoria's inner harbour. 

Visit the Royal British Columbia Museum, which features artifacts, galleries, and collections of British Columbia's natural, modern and human history. Afterwards, stop at the Fairmont Empress Hotel, one of Victoria's oldest and most famous hotels. With turn of the century chateau-style architecture, the hotel is located on Government Street facing the Inner Harbour. 

Other stops along your tour include Chinatown and Craigdarroch Castle. Victoria is home to the oldest Chinatown in Canada and the second oldest in North America. Listen to your guide as he brings the history and culture of this neighborhood to life. Then make a quick stop at Craigdarroch Castle, a Victorian-era Scottish Baronial mansion established in 1890 as a residence for wealthy coal baron Robert Dunsmuir and his family.

Next, enjoy a leisurely walk in the same gardens as the Queen on your visit to Government House, the home to Royalty during their visits. You'll then venture through the neighborhoods of Oak Bay and finish your tour with a scenic journey on Marine Drive, past beautiful Beacon Hill Park.

Your journey ends with a guided tour of Craigdarroch Castle. This Victoria-era Scottish Baronial mansion is one of Victoria's oldest and most beloved landmarks. The tour will walk through the 25,000 square foot, 30 roomed historic stately home, and display the authentic lavish furnishings from the 1890s, and world-renowned stained-glass windows and intricate woodworkings.

Languages and tickets

  • Mobile Only

Tour operator

  • Kiki Shuffle / Adanac Transportation

Accessibility and practical details

  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Children must be accompanied by an adult

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Questions about this experience

How long is this experience?
The supplier lists a duration of 3 hr. Check your chosen tour option for its specific itinerary.
What ticket format is listed?
Mobile ticket.
What accessibility information is provided?
Wheelchair accessible
What is the cancellation policy?
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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