This submit might comprise affiliate hyperlinks. We might obtain a small fee, for gratis to you, in case you make a purchase order. Learn Disclosure.
Victoria, British Columbia, is a metropolis brimming with a laid-back allure, pure magnificence, and a wealthy cultural tapestry.
Nestled on the southern tip of Vancouver Island, this Canadian gem gives an abundance of wonderful points of interest to maintain you entertained, it doesn’t matter what sort of traveler you might be.
From gorgeous gardens and picturesque waterfronts to historic landmarks and delectable delicacies, there are many issues to do in Victoria.
On this information, we share our insider journey suggestions and data on what to do in Victoria British Columbia for these searching for the very best locations to see, eat, keep, drink, and discover.
Let’s get caught in!
Is Victoria BC Price Visiting?
‘A Little Piece of England’? For the newly-wed and nearly-dead? No! I hate these monikers.
Victoria is a metropolis with a number of nooks and crannies to discover past the apparent vacationer traps. It’s an incredible little piece of the ‘Pacific Northwest’; in addition to the oldest metropolis, with a extra laid again stule than Vancouver and Seattle (I do know, its that doable?!) however with much less rain.
It’s large enough to have some nice pubs and eating places and but sufficiently small to simply stroll across the downtown core. It’s really stunning and, surrounded by water on three sides, is the right place to dip your toe into the Pacific Ocean.
Victoria is totally price visiting, it’s well-known for its pure magnificence and accessiblility to among the most stunning elements of Canada, in addition to having a sub-mediterranean local weather and a relaxed vibe.
Victoria is the capital of the province of British Columbia. It’s situated on Vancouver Island, 107 kilometres (76 miles) southwest of Vancouver. The journey by automobile and ferry, or bus and ferry, takes roughly 4 hours every means from downtown Vancouver.
Issues to do in Victoria BC
Now why Victoria is such a cool place to go to, let’s check out among the prime points of interest so you’ll be able to map out your itinerary…
1. Take a Pub Tour
Victoria has a craft beer scene, so it is best to 100% make sure that so as to add a pub tour to your listing of issues to do there.
Begin with lunch at Spinnakers, Canada’s oldest brewpub, which deserves the pole place.
A big selection of nice, house-made beer and nice meals coupled with among the finest views within the metropolis seals the deal.
Insider Tip: take the passenger harbour ferry from the principle dock within the harbour; a enjoyable little trip on boats typically captained by ex-Marine officers. Purchase a return ticket…you’ll be coming again.
Take the ferry again and make your technique to Darcy’s on the foot of Bastion Sq.. A fairly nondescript Irish pub, it’s the patio that you simply’re right here for.
Sit again and tipple a pint whereas watching the seaplanes land within the harbour. Greatest carried out on a windy day as they seem out of nowhere over the rooftops to drop into the water at your ft.
A fast jaunt up Bastion Sq. lands you on the Irish Occasions, a favourite hang around of vacationers and locals alike. Pull up a stool on the bar (my favourite place) and strike up a dialog with these round you; they might be from close to or far nevertheless it’s all the time a good time.
Make your means again all the way down to the water and comply with Wharf Road alongside to the underside of Pandora Road; right here you’ll discover Swan’s BrewPub.
Housed in an outdated warehouse and residential to among the finest artwork collections in Victoria, it’s price a go to for certainly one of their hand drawn pints; I just like the Buckerfield’s Bitter.
Attempt the native beer; steer clear of the large manufacturers. Among the best issues about Victoria is the nice beer revolution it’s been a part of.
Ask what’s native and check out a sampler tray: Phillips, Driftwood, Vancouver Island Brewery, Lighthouse and so on. Work your means by them and also you gained’t be disenchanted.
Tour Concepts: Ingesting beer with none work!
1. 3-Hour Guided Craft Beer Tasting Bike Tour: Take pleasure in three tasting classes as you trip alongside the car-free Selkirk Trestle. Guide your spot right here.
2. Victoria Craft Beer and Distillery Tour: 3.5-hour tour of the Saanich space on Vancouver Island. Tour two breweries and one distillery with a information with intensive data concerning the native craft beverage scene, and pattern loads of beer and spirits all through the journey. Guide your house.
2. Go to The Waterfront Drive
The waterfront drive in Victoria is gorgeous and the easiest way to do it’s on a scooter.
You possibly can hire a scooter down in Victoria’s Internal Harbor after which scoot, scoot, scoot your means alongside the waterfront. Merely preserve the water in your proper and it’s fairly arduous to get misplaced.
You’ll meander by a variety of neighborhoods; cease everytime you really feel prefer it.
Just a few favorites:
- take a stroll alongside the Ogden Level Breakwater
- admire the gardens (and views) from Beacon Hill Park
- wander among the many historical past in Ross Bay Cemetery
- look ahead to ghosts by the Royal Victoria Golf Course
- cease for espresso/lunch at Olive Olio’s in Cadboro Bay
Flip round right here and make your means again alongside Cadboro Bay Rd and Fort Road. Simply attempt to wipe the smile off your face.
3. Take A Ginnery/Cider Home/Vineyard Tour
We did this tour a few years in the past and it stays as certainly one of my favourite days ever.
Victoria Spirits is housed in an outdated farm home on Previous West Saanich Street. I name it a ‘ginnery‘ as a result of that’s what they make; flavourful, herb infused gin (and since I don’t know what the true identify for a ginnery is).
They provide tastings of all their merchandise upstairs nevertheless it’s downstairs the place the magic occurs.
Ask in case you can have a tour of the nonetheless down beneath – they’re happy with their work and are more than pleased to point out off the German constructed magnificence that produces the magic elixer.
My favourite (and simply packable) takeaway is the Twisted & Bitter fragrant bitters; beautiful in a gin and tonic.
Additionally housed in an outdated farmhouse with fabulous views over farmland and sea, the Sea Cider Farm and Cider Home is an idyllic location for a day cease.
Their ciders are comprised of apples all pressed and fermented on website from varied sorts of apples. Actually, it’s unimaginable to select from among the many many choices; I recommend a tasting flight to pattern all of them!
Final cease is Church and State Vineyard.
A phenomenal location in Brentwood Bay and an incredible place to finish the afternoon. Pattern a number of of their in-house wines, take some footage after which head again into city for dinner.
4. See the Salmon Spawning
Salmon return to their dwelling rivers within the Fall to be able to spawn the subsequent era, so in case you occur to be visiting this time of yr, then trying out the salmon spawning is without doubt one of the finest issues to do in Victoria BC within the fall.
Among the best locations to see that is in Goldstream Park simply north of city.
There are nature trails and an interpretive middle right here too. Head to the estuary to see the Bald Eagles feeding too.
5. Hike Mount Finlayson
Accessed by Goldstream Park, this hike up Mount Finlayson takes you up by the forest and onto rocky outcroppings the place you’ll scramble to the highest for among the finest views within the space.
Though not terribly tough, it’s not for the faint of coronary heart of these with a worry of heights.
You must be capable of do the entire hike in two hours – keep in mind to take water with you and possibly a snack for the highest.
As soon as on the prime the views are unimaginable. You get a panoramic view of Victoria and the Olympic Mountains within the distance on a transparent day.
6. Go to Thetis Lake
An area swimming gap, Thetis Lake gives a small sandy seaside and loads of different hidden spots additional across the lake.
The path across the lake is nice for an excellent, fast run (about 4 km) or a brisk stroll. There are a number of hills however nothing too strenuous.
7. Surf at Jordan River
Head west out by Sooke and also you’ll hit the true Pacific Ocean the place the water reaches out towards Japan.
The surf right here is among the finest there may be and native surfers congregate at any trace of an off shore storm. There are burger shacks and occasional homes to heat up in as you watch the expertise out on the waves.
8. Discover The Neighborhoods in Victoria, BC
Among the best methods to get to know a metropolis is to stroll across the neighborhoods. I like the appear and feel of Fairfield. It’s one of many older elements of city however has loads of redevelopment and character.
Another cool neighborhoods to take a look at are:
- Cook dinner Road Village is a favourite hangout with a few espresso retailers, a bakery, pizza place and native pub.
- Ross Bay Cemetery homes a few of Victoria’s historic figures; the moss coated gravestones and infrequently foggy climate make it a photographers dream.
- The Moss Road Market occurs each Saturday on the nook of Moss and Fairfield streets; nice natural meals, crafts, knick-knacks, music and a hippie vibe predominates.
9. Discover the Victoria Markets and Procuring Streets
Victoria is a superb metropolis to buy in, and has many boutiques, indie shops, and classic thrift retailers, in addition to the well-known excessive avenue manufacturers.
For purchasing, we suggest you go to Decrease Johnston avenue, or LoJo as they’ve rebranded themselves, which has grow to be fairly the purchasing mecca for fashionistas and people searching for one thing somewhat bit totally different.
Lined with unbiased retailers (with a number of bigger names) it’s an incredible place to window store or discover somewhat one thing for your self.
The Downtown Market is held on Authorities avenue (between Pandora and Fisgard) each Sunday from 11-5. It’s a cool, hippy-ish market with stalls stuffed with crafts, psychics, clothes, meals carts and music. A little bit one thing for everybody; it’s a enjoyable stroll and a good way to spend a day.
The Moss Road Market is held each Saturday on the nook of Moss and Fairfield streets. It’s primarily an natural meals market however there are additionally some crafts, home-made jams, clothes, meals carts and music. It’s a beautiful stroll from downtown to right here.
Insider Tip: Avoid decrease Authorities Road; it really is a vacationer lure down there, the nearer to the harbour the more serious. By all means take a stroll however don’t do any purchasing right here.
10. Attend a Pageant in Victoria BC
The Moss Road Paint In is certainly one of my favourite occasions within the metropolis.
The road is closed from the highest of the hill all the way down to the ocean and is lined with artists creating their masterpieces and promoting their wares alongside the best way.
You possibly can spend hours perusing all of the artwork, chatting with the artists and having fun with the nice climate.
Insider Tip: Go later within the afternoon and cease on the Artwork Gallery on the prime of the hill for a scorching canine and beer on the Beer Backyard. There’s a band after darkish and it’s all the time an excellent time.
Symphony Splash is held on the primary weekend of August within the Internal Harbour. A barge is floated in, the crowds collect throughout on shore, and the Victoria Symphony places on a present to recollect.
Swiftsure is the premier yacht race within the Pacific Northwest and attracts sailors from across the whole area. It’s price being down close to Clover Level on Dallas Rd on the morning of the beginning; it’s one thing else to see a whole bunch of boats in full sail as they jostle for place on the beginning line.
Extra than simply for sailors although…there may be all the time a significant celebration at Ships Level within the harbour. Aye Matey!
11. Have Afternoon Tea at Butchart Gardens
When you’re searching for one thing particular to do in Victoria, then deal with your self to a day tea with refined magnificence and floral splendor at Butchart Gardens.
This enchanting botanical backyard gives extra than simply gorgeous flora – it additionally boasts a pleasant custom of afternoon tea.
As you sip aromatic teas and savor delectable treats, you’ll be captivated by the gardens’ serene magnificence.
Afterwards, discover the gardens, which started as a limestone quarry remodeled by Jennie Butchart within the early 1900s.
At present, guests can discover the 55-acre wonderland together with the gorgeous Rose Backyard and Japanese Backyard, in addition to soak up vibrant floral shows, and chill out amidst the serene environment.
12. Take a Whale-Watching Tour
For these nature lovers, a preferred factor to do in Victoria is to move out onto the strait of Juan de Fuca and do a spot of whale watching.
All through the months of Could – October, seize the chance to witness majestic orcas and humpback whales of their pure habitat whereas exploring the gorgeous coastal waters.
The joys of recognizing these light giants up shut is unmatched and can depart you with reminiscences that final a lifetime.
Furthermore, the excursions in Victoria are recognized for his or her accountable and sustainable strategy, guaranteeing minimal disturbance to the whales’ surroundings.
13. Admire Victoria Butterfly Gardens
This fascinating attraction in Victoria has grow to be some of the standard vacationer websites on Vancouver Island.
Step right into a vibrant tropical oasis the place hundreds of butterflies dance amidst lush greenery and blooming orchids.
This family-friendly attraction gives an immersive expertise, with flamingos, ponds, rescued parrots, turtles, and even a macaw.
As you wander by this indoor wonderland, marvel on the gorgeous koi fish, goldfish, and different creatures that decision these gardens dwelling.
When you love wildlife and the pure world, then you might also need to go to the Victoria Bug Zoo in case you have extra time. Get your ticket to the butterfly gardens.
14. See the Totem Poles in Thunderbird Park
When you’re curious about studying concerning the wealthy Indigenous heritage of Canada, then be sure you go to the awe-inspiring Totem Poles at Thunderbird Park.
These stunning sculptures stand as testaments to the area’s vibrant tradition and historical past.
Established in 1941, Thunderbird Park homes a outstanding assortment of 11 conventional totem poles from varied First Nations communities, together with the Kwakwaka’wakw individuals.
Every totem pole tells a novel story, depicting ancestral legends and sacred symbols.
15. Verify Out Hatley Fortress
This iconic Nationwide Historic Web site is steeped in each historical past and sweetness. As soon as a lavish residence, Hatley Fortress now serves as the executive middle of Royal Roads College.
With its grand structure and gorgeous oceanfront property, the fortress is the right setting for pictures fans or these searching for someplace enjoyable to go to.
Take a stroll by the colourful gardens, discover the peaceable forest trails, or immerse your self within the wealthy historical past of the location.
16. Take The Youngsters to Beacon Hill Youngsters’s Farm
Beacon Hill Youngsters’s Farm, nestled inside the picturesque Beacon Hill Park, is an enthralling farm that enables guests to rise up shut and private with a pleasant array of livestock.
From playful goats and cute pigs to majestic llamas and colourful peacocks, this enchanting farm brings the enjoyment of the countryside to the center of town.
You should definitely catch the each day goat stampedes at 10:10 am and 4:10 pm, for a really exhilarating sight.
17. Discover Canada’s Oldest Chinatown
Victoria is dwelling to the oldest Chinatown in Canada, which established in 1858. It’s additionally the second oldest in North America, proper after San Francisco.
Nestled on Fisgard Road, this bustling group gives a kaleidoscope of colours, flavors, and traditions. Discover the eclectic array of retailers, from natural medication shops to distinctive trinket retailers, providing a glimpse into the wealthy Chinese language heritage.
Pattern delectable delicacies at genuine eating places or savor dim sum delights, in addition to admire the ornate structure and go to landmarks just like the Gate of Harmonious Curiosity and the notorious playing den of Fan Tan Alley, the narrowest avenue in Victoria and now a vibrant avenue with tea retailers and medicinal shops.
18. Go to Fort Rodd Hill and Fisgard Lighthouse
Transport your self to a bygone period by visiting the fascinating Fort Rodd Hill and Fisgard Lighthouse Nationwide Historic Websites.
Fort Rodd Hill, an artillery fortress lively from 1895 to 1956, overlooks Canada’s West coast and has unimaginable views.
You possibly can discover the fort’s intriguing navy historical past, after which go to the adjoining Fisgard Lighthouse, Canada’s oldest west coast lighthouse.
Marvel at its placing structure and panoramic ocean views.
19. Verify Out The Royal BC Museum
When you love studying about pure and human historical past, then be sure you go to the famend Royal BC Museum.
Established in 1886, this esteemed museum gives an enchanting journey by time.
Discover everlasting collections and rotating displays that includes genuine artifacts, telling tales from the Ice Age to fashionable occasions, in addition to study British Columbia’s wealthy heritage.
The place to Eat in Victoria, BC
In the case of discovering a spot to eat, there are such a lot of choices. A few of my favorite locations to eat in Victoria are funds pleasant…
Pig BBQ Joint began as somewhat gap within the wall however now calls one of many latest buildings in Victoria dwelling. It nonetheless serves up the very best pulled pork sandwich round and you may get an area Phillips beer on faucet too. Perfection.
Crimson Fish Blue Fish is, arms down, my absolute favourite funds eatery in Victoria. Housed in outdated cargo container proper on the fisherman’s wharf in Victoria’s Internal Harbour, it’s the epitome of contemporary, sustainable, seafood.
There may be typically a line up however get-in-line-already it’s definitely worth the wait! The funky, hipster workers will enable you select however, for me, there isn’t any alternative; it’s the tuna tacones every-single-time.
Prima Strada Pizzeria is one other mid priced favourite. This small, native eatery has a wooden fired oven that produces a chewy, skinny crust pizza that wants minimal toppings to complete it off. The workers are pleasant, the wine is affordable and we all the time depart full and joyful.
Insider Tip: if the road up is just too lengthy simply depart your identify and inform the wait workers you’re simply heading throughout the road for a pint at The Beagle Pub. Your desk will probably be prepared if you get again.
For one thing extra upscale I provide up two of my favorites…
Brasserie L’Ecole is without doubt one of the finest date spots within the metropolis. Cozy and heat it hints of it’s French bistro brethren each in meals and wine, providing up the very best steak and frites round accompanied by fabulous French wines.
Ferris’ Upstairs is a superb, intimate spot for cocktails, small plates and sharing.
Greatest Time to Go to Victoria BC
One of the best time to go to Victoria in British Colombia is Spring and Fall, as a result of they’re out of the peak of vacationer season however nonetheless have unimaginable climate.
The Summer season gives the very best climate, however you can find the most important crowds, which might make discovering inexpensive lodging a headache.
I don’t suggest visiting within the Winter, which may be dreary and moist.
Getting To and Round Victoria BC
There may be a global airport in Victoria, which is serviced primarily by Air Canada and Westjet.
Victoria is on an island so, in case you don’t fly, it’s a must to take the Victoria Harbour ferry.
BC Ferries operates from Tsawwassen simply exterior of Vancouver. It’s somewhat expensive however the surroundings is totally gorgeous because it makes its means by the Gulf Islands.
The Coho Ferry runs between Port Angeles within the USA to the harbour proper of downtown Victoria.
One of the best ways to get round Victoria BC is on foot. The downtown space of Victoria is kind of small and even the close by neighbourhoods are a pleasant stroll away.
The bus system is fairly good although; you’ll be able to name the Transit Information line and an actual particular person will enable you get from Level A to Level B.
The place to Keep in Victoria, BC
Discovering a spot to remain may be overwhelming, so that will help you out, listed below are a number of top-rated solutions for the place to remain in Victoria BC.
- Turtle Hostel is a small hostel housed in a Victorian home on the sting of downtown. This makes it handy to every little thing and the costs can’t be beat! As little as $50/night time for 2 guests in a small non-public room in summer season. That’s about nearly as good because it will get round right here as I wouldn’t suggest sleeping on the seaside (it’s too chilly and rocky, consider me).
- Ocean Island Inn is a cool hostel simply off downtown. An outdated residence constructing; it has many facilities and options not normally seen. It’s certainly one of my favourite buildings downtown and realizing it homes vacationers makes me smile. It has a lounge/cafe and is properly adorned. This could be my choose if I didn’t dwell right here.
- HI-Victoria’s location can’t be beat; proper in the course of town, every little thing is occurring proper on the doorstep. And as a part of the Hosteling Worldwide group that it has to fulfill sure requirements.
- Swan’s (see the Pub Crawl above) can also be a guesthouse, which might negate the necessity for a taxi on the finish of a night…simply crawl upstairs to mattress. It’s slightly up-scale slightly than funds although, however in case you have the dough I might suggest it because it’s a really good place.
- Fairmont Empress Resort is the right place for these searching for someplace particular to remain on their journey to Victoria. It’s an award-winning lodge that additionally lands itself on the nationwide historic website listing, because it was in-built 1908.
Last Ideas on Issues to Do in Victoria, Canada
Victoria is a fascinating and fascinating vacation spot that seamlessly blends pure magnificence and cultural wonders.
Whether or not you need to discover the rugged wilderness, be taught concerning the indigenous tradition, or dive into the craft beer and culinary scene, there may be loads to discover and uncover right here.
We hope this information helped you intend your journey to Victoria and gave you some inspiration for what to do there.
Extra Western Canada Journey Ideas
Pin to Save on Pinterest
Do you could have recommendations on what to do in Victoria? Please share your solutions within the feedback!
Supply: Breaking Travel News
