Vancouver’s Christmas scene sparkles with well-organized seasonal attractions. The standout Victoria-Butchart Gardens combo delivers double value: a scenic Gulf Islands ferry ride plus gardens draped in thousands of lights. My favorite winter spots are Capilano Canyon and Grouse Mountain – the guided tours here skip the crowds and get you straight to the snowy action.
Local tip: The VanDusen Garden light show outshines most displays I’ve seen in North America, while Stanley Park’s train ride through illuminated forests is perfect for families. For photography buffs, the private evening light tours hit all the best photo spots without the usual tourist crush.
The ambitious can venture beyond city limits to Leavenworth and Portland on multi-day trips, combining German-style Christmas markets with urban holiday charm.
Take a look at our tested Christmas tours below.
Good To Know
- The Victoria and Butchart Gardens Christmas Tour offers a 12-hour excursion featuring a 90-minute Gulf Islands cruise and the renowned Butchart Gardens.
- The Capilano Canyon Light and Grouse Mountain private tour provides a personalized experience with a professional guide and breathtaking holiday scenery.
- The Private Vancouver Christmas Light Tour by Globalduniya showcases the city’s festive light displays with private transportation and pickup from various locations.
- The Vancouver Christmas Festival of Lights guided tour highlights the light displays at VanDusen Botanical Garden and Stanley Park with private transportation.
- The 3 Days Leavenworth & Portland Xmas Tour offers a multi-destination experience including a 2-night hotel stay, meals, and transportation.
Victoria and Butchart Gardens Christmas Tour
The Victoria and Butchart Gardens Christmas Tour is a 12-hour excursion that allows visitors to experience the festive charm of Vancouver’s neighboring island city and the renowned botanical gardens.
Highlights include a 90-minute cruise through the Gulf Islands, exploring the decorated streets of Victoria, and visiting the stunning Butchart Gardens.
The tour provides roundtrip transportation, an expert guide, and all necessary inclusions. With a maximum of 40 travelers, it’s a family-friendly experience.
Positive reviews praise the knowledgeable guides and the enchanting Christmas lights at Butchart Gardens, though some suggest more time in Victoria.
Read our full review: Victoria and Butchart Gardens Christmas Tour Review
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Vancouver Capilano Canyon Light and Peak of Christmas in Grouse Mountain
Explore the captivating Capilano Canyon lights and immerse in the festive celebrations at Grouse Mountain on this private tour.
From $401.03 per person, this experience offers a personalized journey exclusively for your group. Pickup is available from Burnaby, Richmond, Surrey, and Vancouver, with a professional guide to enhance your experience.
While not wheelchair accessible, most travelers can participate. With a 5.0 rating based on 1 review and no negative feedback, this tour promises a memorable Christmas adventure.
Enjoy the convenience of reserve now, pay later, and a lowest price guarantee for a hassle-free booking experience.
Read our full review: Vancouver Capilano Canyon Light and Peak of Christmas in Grouse Mountain Review
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Vancouver Christmas Light Tour Private
This private Vancouver Christmas Light Tour offers an enchanting exploration of the city’s dazzling holiday displays.
Operated by Globalduniya, the tour requires a minimum of 2 people and costs $254.94 per person. The tour includes private transportation, bottled water, and gratuities.
Pickup is available from all hotels in Burnaby, Richmond, Surrey, and Vancouver, with the pickup point selected at the time of booking.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is generally suitable for most travelers, though infants must sit on laps.
Confirmation is received at booking, and a reserve now, pay later option is available.
This private experience ensures only your group participates.
Read our full review: Vancouver Christmas Light Tour Private Review
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Vancouver Christmas Festival of Lights
Alongside the private Vancouver Christmas Light Tour, another enchanting holiday experience in the city is the Vancouver Christmas Festival of Lights.
Held annually, this guided tour takes visitors on a festive journey through the city, showcasing the stunning light displays at VanDusen Botanical Garden and Stanley Park.
Guests will enjoy private transportation in a comfortable Mercedes Benz Sprinter van, with hotel pickup and drop-off included.
The tour features live commentary, entrance tickets to top attractions, and a moderate level of physical activity.
With a maximum group size of 11, this experience offers a personalized and convenient way to take in Vancouver’s magical holiday atmosphere.
Read our full review: Vancouver Christmas Festival of Lights Review
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3 Days Leavenworth & Portland Xmas Tour From Vancouver (Chn&Eng)
For those seeking a festive multi-destination adventure from Vancouver, the 3-Day Deluxe Coach Tour to Leavenworth and Portland offers an enchanting Christmas experience.
Priced from $335.29 per person, this tour includes 2-night hotel accommodations, 2 breakfasts, and a mandatory service fee of $15 per person per day.
Operated by First Express Travel & CoachCanada, the tour accommodates up to 55 travelers and provides select meeting points.
With confirmation upon booking, this tour may not be wheelchair accessible, but most travelers can participate.
Guests can expect a long ride involving a border crossing and driving through snow areas.
Read our full review: 3 Days Leavenworth & Portland Xmas Tour From Vancouver (Chn&Eng) Review
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Christmas Lights Spectacular
Leaving the multi-destination tour behind, visitors can now embark on the festive Christmas Lights Spectacular day trip from Vancouver.
This private tour accommodates a maximum of 5 travelers, departing at 9 AM from a convenient meeting point near the Waterfront Skytrain Station. Accessible by wheelchair and stroller, the tour offers pickup and drop-off service.
Priced at $182.62 per person, with a lowest price guarantee and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, the experience includes coffee or tea during the journey.
Most travelers can participate, and confirmation is provided upon booking. This is an excellent opportunity to take in the enchanting Christmas lights display in the Fraser Valley.
Read our full review: Christmas Lights Spectacular Review
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The Sum Up
The best Christmas experiences in Vancouver offer a diverse range of activities and events. From the stunning light displays at Capilano Canyon and Grouse Mountain to the festive markets and tours, visitors can enjoy the holiday spirit. Whether you’re seeking a tranquil garden tour or a lively festival, Vancouver has something to delight everyone during the Christmas season.