When your cruise to Canada includes the western capital city of Victoria, BC, shore excursions invite you to explore the city of gardens and be thoroughly charmed by its lush green spaces, spectacular water views, rich history, and distinct neighborhoods.
There’s little doubt that the city’s fine weather invites outdoor exploration, so whether you choose Victoria BC shore excursions that take you ziplining above a Pacific Coast forest, sailing out onto the Salish Sea for whale-watching adventures, or bicycling to see the city sights from Beacon Hill Park to Beach Drive and from the Inner Harbor to Chinatown, you’re sure to thoroughly enjoy your time ashore.
While on your cruise to Victoria, you’ll see that even its food and wine scene lends itself to the great outdoors. Immerse yourself in the glories of the Sydney Street Market where more than 150 vendors selling locally produced meat, vegetables, artisan bread, chocolates, pastries, and ethnic specialties invite you to nibble and nosh your way through an evening. Or savor an evening pub crawl to take in the city’s thriving craft beer industry. You can also tour local vineyards and sample their vintages paired with local cheeses.
Among the most popular Victoria BC cruise excursions are tours to Butchart Gardens, the city’s most beloved botanical garden and one celebrated by National Geographic as one of the best show gardens in the world.
Hear the fascinating story of how a family owned and operated property that was once a limestone quarry became one of the most celebrated botanical gardens in the world. Wander the 55-acre park and be mesmerized by its colors in carefully crafted and lovingly tended themed gardens – Japanese, Italian, sunken and more. Grab a snack, enjoy a meal, or sit for afternoon tea at the conservatory-style dining room. Young, old, or in-between, you’ll want to take a spin on the vintage carousel located in the Children’s Pavilion.
Visit the city’s last grand estate that’s been named a National Historic Site of Canada on Victoria, BC shore excursions to Craigdarroch Castle. Delve into life as it was lived by a wealthy 19th century coal baron and his family as you explore the four-story mansion. View the stained glass windows located throughout the castle that are thought to have been designed by a famous American glass studio.