How to Get to Butchart Gardens from Vancouver: A Complete Travel Guide
If you’re planning a visit to one of Canada’s most beautiful attractions, knowing how to get to Butchart Gardens from Vancouver is essential. Located just outside Victoria on Vancouver Island, Butchart Gardens is a world-famous botanical paradise that attracts visitors from around the globe. From vibrant flower displays to peaceful Japanese and Italian gardens, it’s a must-see destination in British Columbia.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore how to get to Butchart Gardens from Vancouver using various transportation options, including ferries, buses, organized tours, and private vehicles. Whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or as part of a tour, this article will help you choose the best route for your journey.
About Butchart Gardens
Butchart Gardens is a National Historic Site of Canada and spans more than 55 acres of beautifully maintained landscapes. It features:
- The Sunken Garden
- The Japanese Garden
- The Rose Garden
- The Italian Garden
- Seasonal flower displays
- Evening concerts and fireworks (summer)
- Holiday light displays (winter)
Open year-round, the gardens also offer dining, gift shops, and well-maintained walking paths. Because of its popularity, planning how to get to Butchart Gardens from Vancouver in advance is highly recommended.
Overview: How to Get to Butchart Gardens from Vancouver
Since Butchart Gardens is located on Vancouver Island, reaching it from Vancouver usually requires crossing the Strait of Georgia. Most travel routes include:
- Traveling from Vancouver to Vancouver Island
- Transferring to transportation that leads to the gardens
The main travel options include:
- Ferry + Public Transit
- Ferry + Car
- Organized Tour (including The Great Canadian Trolley Co. – Gray Line Vancouver)
- Seaplane
- Bus and Ferry Packages
Let’s explore each option in detail.
Option 1: Ferry and Public Transit (Most Budget-Friendly)
This is the most economical way to learn how to get to Butchart Gardens from Vancouver.
Step 1: Vancouver to Swartz Bay Ferry Terminal
Travel to Tsawwassen Ferry Terminal by car, transit, or shuttle. From there, take a BC Ferry to Swartz Bay near Victoria.
- Ferry time: About 1 hour 35 minutes
- Sailings: Multiple times daily
Step 2: Swartz Bay to Butchart Gardens by Bus
From Swartz Bay, take BC Transit:
- Bus #70 or #72 toward Victoria
- Transfer to Bus #81 to Butchart Gardens
Total travel time: About 1 hour
This option is ideal for backpackers and budget-conscious travelers.
Option 2: Ferry and Car (Most Flexible)
Driving gives you maximum freedom.
Step 1: Drive to Tsawwassen Ferry Terminal
From downtown Vancouver, take Highway 99 south.
Step 2: Ferry to Swartz Bay
Make reservations in advance, especially during summer.
Step 3: Drive to Butchart Gardens
- Distance: About 20 km
- Time: 25–30 minutes
This option is perfect for families, photographers, and travelers who want to explore Victoria independently.
Option 3: Organized Tours with The Great Canadian Trolley Co. – Gray Line Vancouver (Most Convenient)
One of the easiest and most comfortable ways to learn how to get to Butchart Gardens from Vancouver is by joining an organized tour with The Great Canadian Trolley Co. – Gray Line Vancouver.
The Great Canadian Trolley Co. – Gray Line Vancouver’s Butchart Gardens Tours
The Great Canadian Trolley Co. – Gray Line Vancouver offers professionally organized sightseeing tours that take care of all transportation and logistics, allowing you to relax and enjoy the journey.
Their tours typically include:
- Comfortable motorcoach transportation
- Ferry transportation to Vancouver Island
- Round-trip transfers
- Admission to Butchart Gardens
- Professional, knowledgeable guides
- Scheduled free time at the gardens
Benefits of Choosing The Great Canadian Trolley Co. – Gray Line Vancouver
- No ferry booking required
- No driving or parking stress
- Reliable scheduling
- Scenic sightseeing en route
- Local expertise from knowledgeable tour guides
- Ideal for visitors and cruise passengers
With The Great Canadian Trolley Co. – Gray Line Vancouver, you don’t need to worry about connections, schedules, or navigation. Everything is handled for you, making it one of the best ways to experience how to get to Butchart Gardens from Vancouver.
This option is especially popular with first-time visitors, seniors, international travelers, and those with limited time.
Best Tours to Butchart Gardens from Vancouver
Option 4: Seaplane (Fastest Option)
For travelers who value speed and scenic views, seaplanes are the quickest option.
Vancouver to Victoria by Seaplane
Flights depart from:
- Vancouver Harbour
- YVR South Terminal
Flight time: Approximately 35 minutes
Transfer to Butchart Gardens
From Victoria Harbour:
- Taxi: 25 minutes
- Shuttle: 30–40 minutes
- Bus: About 1 hour
This is a premium option, best for luxury travelers and business visitors.
Option 5: Bus and Ferry Combination Services
Some companies offer bundled bus-and-ferry services.
These packages usually include:
- Bus pickup in Vancouver
- Ferry crossing
- Transfer to Victoria
- Optional garden transportation
This option balances convenience and affordability.
Estimated Travel Times
| Method | Estimated Time |
| Ferry + Bus | 4.5–5.5 hours |
| Ferry + Car | 4–5 hours |
| Great Canadian Trolley – Gray Line Vancouver Tour | 12–13 hours (Round trip) |
| Seaplane + Taxi | 1.5–2 hours |
| Bus + Ferry Package | 4.5–5.5 hours |
Travel times may vary based on season and traffic.
Best Time to Visit Butchart Gardens
Spring (March–May)
- Tulips and blossoms
- Moderate crowds
Summer (June–August)
- Peak bloom
- Evening entertainment
- Busiest season
Fall (September–October)
- Autumn colors
- Quieter atmosphere
Winter (November–February)
- Holiday lights
- Festive displays
Planning how to get to Butchart Gardens from Vancouver around seasonal demand can help improve your experience.
Travel Tips for a Smooth Visit
- Reserve ferries early in peak season
- Check weather and schedules
- Arrive early at terminals
- Wear comfortable walking shoes
- Bring rain gear year-round
- Allow buffer time for delays
Why Choose an Organized Tour?
While independent travel is possible, many visitors prefer tours for peace of mind. Great Canadian Trolley – Gray Line Vancouver’s organized tours eliminate common travel challenges such as:
- Missed ferry connections
- Parking difficulties
- Navigation issues
- Time management
Their tours provide a reliable, enjoyable way to experience Butchart Gardens without stress.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How far is Butchart Gardens from Vancouver?
Including the ferry crossing, the distance is about 100 km. Travel time ranges from 2 to 6 hours.
2. Can I visit Butchart Gardens in one day from Vancouver?
Yes. Many travelers complete the trip as a day tour, especially with Great Canadian Trolley – Gray Line Vancouver or seaplane services.
3. What is the easiest way to get to Butchart Gardens from Vancouver?
The easiest way is through an organized tour, such as those offered by Great Canadian Trolley – Gray Line Vancouver.
4. Do I need to book ferry tickets in advance?
Yes, especially in summer and during holidays. Tours usually include ferry reservations.
5. Does Great Canadian Trolley – Gray Line Vancouver include admission to the gardens?
Yes, most Great Canadian Trolley – Gray Line Vancouver tours include entrance tickets to Butchart Gardens.
6. Is Butchart Gardens suitable for seniors and families?
Yes. The gardens have paved paths, benches, rest areas, and accessible facilities.
7. Can I visit without a car?
Absolutely. Public transit, tours, and shuttle services make it easy to visit without driving.
8. How long should I spend at Butchart Gardens?
Most visitors spend 2 to 3 hours exploring the gardens.
9. Is Butchart Gardens open year-round?
Yes, the gardens are open every day, including holidays, with seasonal displays.
10. Where can I book a Great Canadian Trolley – Gray Line Vancouver tour?
You can book directly through greatcanadiantrolley.com for current schedules, pricing, and availability.
Final Thoughts: How to Get to Butchart Gardens from Vancouver
There are many excellent options when deciding how to get to Butchart Gardens from Vancouver, whether you prefer independent travel, luxury flights, or organized tours.
For the most convenient and worry-free experience, The Great Canadian Trolley Co. – Gray Line Vancouver’s professionally guided tours offer outstanding value, comfort, and reliability. They handle every detail so you can focus on enjoying one of Canada’s most iconic attractions.
No matter which option you choose, visiting Butchart Gardens is a highlight of any trip to British Columbia. With proper planning and the right transportation choice, you’ll enjoy a smooth, memorable journey — and now you know exactly how to get to Butchart Gardens from Vancouver.