• 6 Days
  • From $3,799
  • Airfare Included

Christmastime in British Columbia

Tour Style:
Land
Activity Level:
Moderate
Highest Elevation:
7 feet
6 Meals:
4 Breakfasts, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner

Embrace the magic of the holiday season on this enchanting getaway to British Columbia’s most famous cities! Fly into Vancouver, then soak up spectacular views on a ferry ride to Victoria. In this charming capital city, we indulge in a luxurious afternoon tea at the Empress, admire the holiday-lit Parliament Buildings, and explore the charming downtown area. Get a glimpse of Christmas in a bygone era at Craigdarroch Castle, adorned with dazzling décor, then stroll through the mesmerizing light displays at The Butchart Gardens®. Back on the mainland, experience the magic of a traditional German Christmas Market filled with handmade crafts, delicious food, and live entertainment. Find your adventurous side while crossing the illuminated Capilano Suspension Bridge for a whimsical evening walk among the colorful treetops. Explore the best of Vancouver on a city tour, from the historic streets of Chinatown to the scenic shores of English Bay, before enjoying time to uncover its wonders and admire festive window displays independently. Our adventure concludes with a Farewell Dinner at Top of Vancouver, featuring a incredible cuisine with panoramic views of the city sparkling below.

Trip overview may vary by departure.

  • Day 1: Fly to British Columbia
    Upon arriving in Vancouver, we check in to our nearby hotel for a relaxing evening.
  • Day 2: Christmas in the Capital
    Our festive adventure begins with breathtaking coastal views on our scenic ferry ride to Vancouver Island. Disembarking in the charming city of Victoria, our first stop is the iconic Fairmont Empress for a special Welcome Lunch. Admire the spectacular decorations, then indulge in a luxurious afternoon tea experience with smoked salmon, gourmet finger sandwiches, warm scones, and exquisite teas. Next, we board a motorcoach with a local guide for a city tour featuring views of the historic Inner Harbour, stately Parliament Buildings, remarkably preserved Victorian homes, and other beloved areas, all adorned in beautiful twinkling lights. Later, we check in to Chateau Victoria in the heart of downtown for a two-night stay and enjoy an evening at leisure with holiday magic just steps away.

    Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

  • Day 3: Craigdarroch Castle & Butchart Gardens
    This morning, we step back in time to a Victorian-era Christmas at the grand Craigdarroch Castle, a National Historic Site beautifully transformed for the holiday season. Built in the late 1800s, this magnificent mansion boasts intricate woodwork, stained glass windows, and lavish rooms adorned with decorations – from towering Christmas trees to garlands draped across marble fireplaces. The afternoon is yours to explore downtown Victoria’s lovely shops and eateries! Stroll down Government Street, lined with festive window displays, to browse renowned stores like Rogers’ Chocolates or Murchie’s Tea and Coffee. There are also one-of-a-kind boutiques and quaint shops along Lower Johnson Street and Market Square, perfect for souvenir shopping. Later, we discover the magic of The Butchart Gardens®, where thousands of colorful lights replace the blooms to create mesmerizing displays. Wander through their famous Twelve Days of Christmas scenes while singing along to classic carols with time at leisure to have a delicious meal at one of the on-site restaurants.

    Meals Included: Breakfast

  • Day 4: Vancouver Christmas Market
    Soak up a leisurely morning before our ferry back to the mainland, giving us another chance to view snow-capped mountains and forested islands. Arriving in Vancouver, Yuletide joy at the expansive Vancouver Christmas Market awaits! This German-inspired event features handcrafted ornaments, seasonal treats like spiced cider, and cheerful holiday music. Enjoy time to shop for unique knick-knacks, socialize with new friends over lunch and mulled wine, or listen to live entertainment. After checking into our downtown hotel, you may choose to unwind or venture out for dinner at one of the fantastic nearby restaurants before an enchanting evening at Capilano Suspension Bridge’s Canyon Lights. Once night falls, we cross the illuminated bridge and take in the beauty of vibrant lights on the towering trees around us and the dazzling reflections on the Capilano River below. Those not ready to conquer a fear of heights can visit the nearby Trading Post to shop for locally made crafts, sip on a cup of hot cocoa, and listen to the soft sounds of holiday music echoing through the trees.

    Meals Included: Breakfast

  • Day 5: City Tour & Festive Farewell
    Today, we explore Vancouver’s vibrant neighborhoods on a guided city tour. Highlights include Chinatown – one of the largest in North America, downtown Vancouver’s holiday-adorned skyscrapers, English Bay’s picturesque coastline, and the lively Public Market on Granville Island. The afternoon is free to stroll down Robson Street and admire window displays, see the life-sized gingerbread display at Fairmont Hotel, watch the Bright Nights Christmas Train wind through Stanley Park, or shop for more gifts. Tonight, we gather for a celebratory Farewell Dinner at Top of Vancouver, a revolving restaurant with panoramic views of the city sparkling in holiday lights – a perfect way to toast to our adventure.

    Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

  • Day 6: Fly Home
    We board our flight home today, returning with spectacular memories of the warmth, beauty, and holiday cheer in British Columbia.

What's Included

All Accommodations

  • 1 night at The Westin Wall Centre Vancouver Airport
  • 2 nights at Chateau Victoria
  • 2 nights at Sheraton Vancouver Wall Centre Hotel

Attractions & Highlights

  • Round-trip ferry ride from Vancouver to Victoria (Vancouver Island)
  • Victoria guided city tour & time at leisure
  • Craigdarroch Castle
  • The Butchart Gardens® feat. Twelve Days of Christmas displays
  • Capilano Suspension Bridge’s Canyon Lights
  • Vancouver Christmas Market
  • Vancouver guided city tour & time at leisure

6 Excellent Meals

  • Daily breakfast
  • Welcome Lunch with full afternoon tea at the Fairmont Empress
  • Farewell Dinner at Top of Vancouver

Learn more about what's included with the Holiday Advantage.