Planning to celebrate Halloween in Victoria? This Ghostly Walking Tour offers a spine-tingling exploration of the city’s darker side, perfect for those who love a good spooky story paired with history. Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or family, this one-hour walk promises an atmospheric evening full of ghost stories, eerie alleys, and intriguing legends.
What we love about this experience is how it combines storytelling with Victoria’s charming Old Town scenery — a setting that naturally lends itself to ghostly tales. Plus, the guides are praised for their knowledge and engagement, ensuring you’re both entertained and informed. On the flip side, a potential consideration is that the tour is relatively short, so if you’re craving a longer or more immersive experience, this might feel a bit brisk.
This tour is ideal for history buffs, Halloween enthusiasts, or anyone curious about Victoria’s haunted corners. It’s a good pick for people who appreciate storytelling from knowledgeable guides and enjoy a walk through atmospheric, historic streets.
Key Points
- Authentic storytelling from guides praised for their knowledge and engaging manner.
- Atmospheric stops in Victoria’s historic Old Town, especially Market Square and Bastion Square.
- Affordable price point—around $17 per person—delivers good value for a fun, themed experience.
- Short duration makes it easy to fit into a busy sightseeing day or evening outing.
- Special Halloween route that changes annually, adding fresh stories each year.
- Small group size—max 20 travelers—ensuring a cozy, intimate atmosphere.
Exploring Victoria’s Haunted Past: A Close Look at the Tour
Victoria, Canada, is known for its charming streets, historic buildings, and a reputation as one of the most haunted cities in the region. This Ghostly Walking Tour taps directly into that spooky reputation, offering a lively, storytelling-driven exploration that focuses on Victoria’s dark side. It’s an experience designed for the Halloween season, but many find it enjoyable year-round for its atmospheric storytelling and historic intrigue.
You can also read our reviews of more walking tours in Victoria
Starting Point: Market Square
The tour kicks off at Market Square, a central hub in Victoria that’s historically vibrant and full of life during the day. As dusk falls, the area takes on a different aura—mysterious and slightly foreboding, perfect for a ghostly walk. The tour’s route is flexible, changing annually to keep the stories fresh for repeat visitors. Expect about 30 minutes here, with stories about Victoria’s darker episodes woven into the surroundings. This stop sets a lively, slightly eerie tone, and the fact that the admission fee is included means no extra cost surprises.
Bastion Square: The Haunted Heart
Next, the walk moves to Bastion Square, a prime haunt of Victoria’s ghost stories. This historic area is the real star of the evening, filled with old buildings, cobblestone alleys, and stories of murder, mayhem, and spirits that supposedly still linger. According to reviews, visitors find Bastion Square to be the haunted epicenter, and guides do a good job of bringing its stories to life. One reviewer remarked that the guides were “really atmospheric and friendly,” emphasizing how storytelling set the tone without feeling like a theatrical performance but more like sharing local secrets.
What You Can Expect
The entire tour lasts about an hour, which makes it a perfect light evening activity—especially if you’re already out exploring Victoria’s sights. The small group sizes—limited to 20—help create an intimate, immersive atmosphere. Most reviews highlight how well-organized and engaging the guides are, with one noting that the stories are told “really well” and that the guide’s microphone ensured everyone could hear comfortably.
The Guide and the Stories
Many guests praise the guides’ storytelling prowess. As one review states, “Asher was incredibly knowledgeable, engaging, and such a gifted storyteller.” This is a key element that elevates the experience from a mere walk to something memorable. The stories range from ghostly apparitions to tragic murders, often with a touch of local history that adds depth. Some reviews mention a slight difficulty hearing due to accents but note that the stories remain compelling.
The Experience Value
At $17.07 per person, this tour offers excellent value. It’s a short, focused experience that delivers entertainment and a bit of fright, along with insights into Victoria’s past. Because the tour is run by “Walking Tours by Discover the Past,” you can expect a professional approach, with clear meeting points and flexible cancellation policies—full refunds if canceled 24 hours in advance.
Accessibility and Logistics
The meeting point at Market Square is easy to find, close to public transportation. The tour is suitable for travelers with moderate physical fitness, as it involves walking through streets and alleys—no strenuous activity required. Service animals are allowed, which is helpful for visitors with disabilities or emotional support animals.
What Could Be Better?
Some reviews mention a desire for more immersive experiences, like touring old buildings or visiting Fan Tan Alley, which is often closed at night. Also, if you’re sensitive to loud sounds or prefer a more theatrical haunted experience, this guided storytelling walk might seem a bit subdued.
Why This Tour Sells Well
With a 4.7/5 rating from 21 reviews and repeated bookings—over five times last week alone—this tour clearly hits the mark for many visitors. The combination of knowledgeable guides, atmospheric stops, and a reasonable price point makes it a popular choice for those looking to add some spooky fun to their Victoria visit.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This walk is best suited for travelers who enjoy stories, history, and a little Halloween spirit without the heavy commitment of a full ghost-hunting experience. It’s perfect for families, couples, or solo visitors wanting a memorable night. Those interested in local legends or Victorian architecture will find it especially engaging.
The Sum Up
The Halloween Ghostly Walking Tour in Victoria offers a well-paced, atmospheric glimpse into the city’s haunted reputation. The guides’ storytelling skills make the stories come alive, and the stops in historic areas give the walk a tangible sense of place. It’s a fun, affordable way to experience Victoria’s dark side—whether you’re a Halloween enthusiast or simply curious about the city’s ghostly legends.
For travelers seeking a light, entertaining, and atmospheric evening, this tour provides genuine value. It’s particularly suited for those who appreciate good storytelling, historic ambiance, and a touch of spooky fun. If you’re in Victoria around Halloween or want a memorable night walk, this tour deserves a spot on your list.
FAQs
Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s generally suitable for older children and teenagers who enjoy ghost stories, but parents should consider the spooky nature of the tales.
How long is the tour?
The entire walk lasts about one hour, making it a manageable activity that won’t take up your whole evening.
Where does the tour start and end?
It begins and ends at Market Square, 560 Johnson St, Victoria, BC, a central location easy to reach by public transportation.
What is included in the price?
Your ticket includes the guided walk and admission to the stops at Market Square and Bastion Square. GST is also included.
Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
The tour involves walking through streets and alleys, so moderate physical fitness is recommended. It’s suitable for those able to walk on uneven surfaces.
Can service animals participate?
Yes, service animals are allowed on the tour.
What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, receiving a full refund.
Do I need to bring anything?
Comfortable walking shoes are advised, and dressing appropriately for the weather is recommended since it’s an outdoor walk.
Are the stories suitable for a general audience?
Yes, the tales focus on ghostly legends, murder, and mayhem but are generally suitable for most audiences interested in local folklore.
This Halloween Ghostly Walking Tour offers an engaging, authentic experience that highlights Victoria’s haunted charm. Whether you’re a history lover, a Halloween fan, or just in search of a fun night activity, you’ll find it a worthwhile addition to your visit.
More Walking Tours in Victoria
More Tours in Victoria
More Tour Reviews in Victoria
Not for you? Here's more nearby things to do in Victoria we have reviewed
- Halloween Ghostly Walking Tour in Victoria
- 90-Minute The Capital Tour
- Family Tour in Victoria: Fun and Adventure for all ages
- Salish Sea Horse-Drawn Carriage Tour of Victoria
- Butchart & Beyond: The Grand Victoria Tour
- COMBO Victoria City Tour & Butchart Gardens & Entry Tix
- Victoria Whale Watching Tour by Zodiac
- Victoria Wine Tour with Wine Tastings and Charcuterie
- Hip & Hidden Chinatown + Old Town Food Tour Victoria
- Butchart Gardens and City Private Tour
- Victoria to Vancouver – Vancouver Airport (YVR) Drop Off – Coach Bus Transfer
- 4 Unforgettable Hours in Victoria
