Photo courtesy CVS tours

Whenever we visit somewhere new I like to get out and walk to figure out where things are and get a sense of the destination.  I also try to work in a tour at the beginning of a trip to get an overview of the city and it’s history, oftentimes we end up changing our itinerary after seeing more of the area.

On a recent trip to Victoria BC we took a 90-minutes CVS City Bus Tours aboard an open-air double decker bus and enjoyed the historical narration as we passed by points of interest with the best views.  We had a peek-a-boo glimpse of Craigdarroch Castle, saw the shopping districts, China Town, beaches, parks, and gardens, and had a stop at Mt. Tolmie Viewpoint for a 360-degree view of the island.  Breathtaking!  The website says that there are “Photo Opportunities at Oak Bay Marina with the Seals” but we didn’t experience that.  The bus pick up was right outside the Fairmont Empress, which was a short walk from our hotel.

During our bus tour it became clear that we didn’t have nearly enough time to do everything that we wanted to do in Victoria.  Next time we’ll plan some outdoor activities, like whale-watching and ziplining – and a longer stay!

CVS Victoria Bus Tours – Wheelchair accessibility and special needs notes:

• The double decker buses have a lift and tie downs for wheelchair accessibility on the lower level of the bus. The upper deck is not handicap accessible.
• The inside/lower deck viewing area is best for most kids with special needs or sensory issues.  It’s quieter and temperature-controlled.  My older daughter and I enjoyed the upper deck/outside area, but there are low hanging trees you need to watch for, and it does get chilly, windy and can be louder.  My special needs child was happier with grandma on the lower deck.
• There is a stop at Craigdarroch Castle right outside Victoria, however it’s a long hill to the castle and the castle itself has lots of stairs and is not handicap accessible.
• There is wheelchair service on all of CVS tours, guest are required to contact them at least 48 hours in advance to make sure that space is available.

CVS Victoria Bus Tours
721 Government St
Victoria, BC V8W 1W5, Canada
(877) 578-5552

A look down one of the streets in Victoria.

A view of the beaches in Victoria.

A view from the top of the world – Mt. Tolmie Viewpoint with a 360-degree view of Victoria, Vancouver Island and beyond.

The inner harbor.

Passing under the arch in Victoria’s China Town.

Disclaimer: We were guests of CVS Tours for purposes of this review, the experiences and opinions are my own.