Victoria: Ghost Tour of Old Town and Bastion Square

If you’re intrigued by ghost stories, haunted buildings, and dark legends, this Victoria ghost tour might just become one of your favorite local experiences. Offered by Walking Tours by Discover the Past, this guided walk claims to reveal the eerie side of Victoria’s historic core — and based on the glowing reviews, it does so in a way that’s both entertaining and surprisingly informative.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how it combines history and storytelling—the guides are clearly passionate and knowledgeable, making each tale come alive. Plus, the price point at just $17 per person makes it a budget-friendly way to spend an hour in a city full of charm and secrets. One thing to consider, though, is that the tour lasts only about an hour, so if you’re craving a deep dive into Victoria’s past, you might want to supplement with other activities.

This experience is best suited for history buffs, ghost enthusiasts, families, and groups of friends looking for a fun, spooky evening. Whether you’re skeptical or a believer, the mix of storytelling and atmospheric settings makes it a memorable outing.

Key Points

• Affordable at $17, offering great value for an hour-long experience
• Expert guides bring authenticity and engaging storytelling
• Short, accessible tour perfect for evening entertainment
• Rich tales about Victorian-era spirits, tragic love stories, and murderous pioneers
• Ideal for history lovers, ghost fans, and curious travelers
• Starts conveniently in front of the Visitor Information Centre across from the Empress Hotel

You can check availability for your dates here:

What is this ghost tour all about?

This one-hour walking tour winds through Victoria’s Old Town and Bastion Square, revealing the darker side of the city’s past. You’ll stroll down charming, historic streets, passing architectural landmarks that hide stories of tragedy, murder, and mysterious spirits. It’s a lively mix of history, folklore, and ghostly legends, presented in a way that’s engaging whether you’re a skeptic or a believer.

The tour’s main appeal lies in its storytelling style. Guides share fascinating tales of notorious characters like gold rush pioneers, tragic lovers, and the spirits said to haunt some of Victoria’s iconic buildings. These stories aren’t just spooky—they’re rooted in the real history of the city, giving you a taste of Victoria’s unique character beyond the usual sightseeing.

How is the itinerary structured?

The tour begins in front of the Visitor Information Centre, right across from the famous Empress Hotel, making it easy to find. From here, your guide will lead you through Old Town—a neighborhood full of historic charm with narrow streets, Victorian architecture, and hidden alleys. Expect to uncover stories behind well-known landmarks and discover the paranormal legends that add a mysterious glow to the city’s past.

Throughout the walk, you’ll hear tales of murderous gold rush pioneers, whose greed and violence left behind restless spirits, as well as romantic tragedies that resulted in ghostly apparitions. The guides excel at spinning these stories with animated narration, making each stop feel like a scene from a spooky film.

Though the tour only lasts about 60 minutes, it’s packed with engaging stories and atmospheric settings. The compact duration makes it suitable for an evening outing, perfect after a day of sightseeing or dinner.

What makes the guides stand out?

One of the most praised aspects of this tour is the knowledgeable and charismatic guide. Multiple reviews highlight guides like Fiona, Zach, and Asher, with comments praising their storytelling skills, enthusiasm, and ability to make the history come alive. Reviewers often mention how guides effectively blend fun and fact, keeping everyone engaged and entertained.

For example, one reviewer said, “Brin was fantastic, animated, mysterious… a great storyteller,” while another appreciated how Asher’s enthusiasm made the stories more vivid. This focus on quality storytelling is part of what elevates this tour from a simple stroll to an immersive experience.

The experience: ambience, atmosphere, and authenticity

Walking through Victoria’s Old Town in the evening adds a haunting atmosphere that amplifies the stories. The dim lighting, historic architecture, and narrow alleys create a perfect setting for tales of spirits lurking behind the facades.

While some stories are rooted in documented legends, others have a more folkloric or ghostly reputation. Either way, the atmosphere is compelling—especially if you enjoy a little spooky fun. The tour doesn’t claim to be a paranormal investigation but offers enough spooky tales to tickle your imagination.

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Value for money

At $17, this tour offers excellent value. It’s a short but immersive experience that enriches your understanding of Victoria’s dark side. The price includes the guide and the storytelling experience, and with the skip-the-line feature, you avoid long queues, which adds to the convenience.

Considering the reviews—that mention enthusiastic guides and engaging stories—it’s clear this experience is well worth the price, especially if you’re looking for an affordable, fun evening activity.

Who will love this tour?

This ghost tour is perfect for those interested in Victoria’s history and legends, whether or not they are convinced about paranormal phenomena. It’s also excellent for families with older children, groups of friends, or couples wanting a memorable and slightly spooky outing. If you enjoy walking tours that combine culture, history, and a bit of ghostly thrill, this should be high on your list.

However, if you’re after a lengthy or deeply detailed historical excursion, this might feel a bit light. Its short and lively format makes it more of a fun experience than an educational deep dive.

The Sum Up

This Victoria ghost tour offers a delightful blend of storytelling, history, and atmospheric charm. Its affordability and the quality of guides make it a great value, especially for those who enjoy spooky tales and authentic local legends. The tour’s short duration and convenient meeting point make it an easy addition to any evening itinerary.

The guides’ enthusiasm and ability to weave engaging stories are what truly set this experience apart. Whether you’re a skeptic or a believer, you’ll likely find yourself captivated by the tales and the ambiance of Victoria’s historic streets at night.

For history enthusiasts, ghost lovers, or curious travelers, this tour provides a vivid glimpse into the city’s mysterious side, making it an experience you’ll remember long after your visit.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s generally suitable for older children and teenagers, especially those interested in spooky stories, but very young kids might find the stories a bit frightening.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts about 1 hour, making it a manageable and convenient evening activity.

Where does the tour start?
The meeting point is in front of the Visitor Information Centre, directly across from the Empress Hotel.

Is it a walking tour?
Yes, it’s a walking tour through Victoria’s Old Town and Bastion Square, covering charming streets and alleys.

What languages are offered?
The tour is conducted in English.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and you can reserve now and pay later.

Is the tour suitable for skeptics?
Definitely. It’s more about storytelling and atmosphere than proof of paranormal activity, so skeptics can enjoy the history and fun of the stories.

What if I don’t believe in ghosts?
Even skeptics often find the stories entertaining and appreciate the historical backdrop. The guide’s lively narration adds to the fun.

Is the tour accessible?
Since it’s a walking tour through historic streets, some uneven surfaces may apply; consider this if mobility is an issue.

How does the price compare to other activities?
At $17, it’s an affordable way to experience Victoria’s spooky side without breaking your budget, especially compared to other specialty tours like whale watching or hop-on-hop-off buses.

This guided ghost tour of Victoria’s Old Town and Bastion Square offers an engaging, fun, and affordable look into the city’s haunted past. With knowledgeable guides and atmospheric settings, it’s a memorable way to spend an evening — perfect for curious travelers seeking a mix of history, mystery, and a touch of the supernatural.

You can check availability for your dates here: