Victoria, capital of British Columbia, sits on the craggy southern end of Vancouver Island. With abundant parkland, it’s known for outdoor activities. The city's British colonial past shows in its Victorian architecture, including stately Craigdarroch Castle mansion. Butchart Gardens, with 55 acres of vivid floral displays, plus statuary, water features and a carousel, is one of many formal gardens in the city.
Best Time to Visit Victoria, British Columbia:
Spring (March to May): Spring is a lovely time to visit Victoria, as the city’s renowned gardens come to life with blooming flowers, including the famous Butchart Gardens. The weather is mild, with temperatures ranging from 8°C to 15°C (46°F to 59°F), and it's a less crowded time to explore the city.
Summer (June to August): Summer is the peak tourist season in Victoria due to the warm, pleasant weather, with temperatures between 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). The city is vibrant with festivals, outdoor activities, and plenty of opportunities to enjoy its natural beauty, especially the harbor.
Fall (September to November): Fall offers pleasant weather, with temperatures ranging from 9°C to 17°C (48°F to 63°F), and fewer tourists. It’s a great time to explore the outdoors, see the fall foliage, and enjoy fewer crowds. Plus, the mild temperatures make for a comfortable visit.
Winter (December to February): Winter in Victoria is relatively mild compared to other parts of Canada. Temperatures hover between 3°C and 9°C (37°F to 48°F), and while there might be occasional snow, it’s more common to see rain. It’s a quieter time to visit, ideal for those who prefer peace and fewer crowds.
How to Get There:
By Air: Victoria International Airport (YYJ) is about 25 minutes from downtown Victoria. Direct flights are available from major cities like Vancouver, Calgary, and Seattle. You can also fly into Vancouver International Airport (YVR) and take a ferry from there to Victoria.
By Ferry: One of the most scenic ways to get to Victoria is via the BC Ferries from Vancouver or Tsawwassen (on the mainland). The ferry ride takes about 1.5 hours and offers beautiful views of the coastline.
By Bus: If you are coming from Vancouver, there are bus services (like Pacific Coach Lines) that combine a bus and ferry ride, offering a seamless journey from the mainland to Victoria.
By Car: You can drive a car onto the ferry from Vancouver or other nearby locations. Once in Victoria, getting around by car is easy, though downtown Victoria is walkable.
Top Attractions in Victoria, British Columbia:
Butchart Gardens: One of Victoria’s most famous attractions, this world-renowned garden features stunning landscapes and beautiful floral displays throughout the year. It's a must-see for nature lovers.
Royal BC Museum: This cultural gem offers a fascinating collection of exhibits on British Columbia's history, Indigenous cultures, and natural history. It’s perfect for a day of exploration.
Inner Harbour: The picturesque Inner Harbour is the heart of Victoria. You can admire the historic British Columbia Legislature Building, Empress Hotel, and take a harbor tour, which provides fantastic views of the city.
Craigdarroch Castle: This Victorian mansion offers a glimpse into the life of the wealthy elite during the late 1800s. The castle has been beautifully preserved and offers panoramic views of Victoria.
Fairmont Empress Hotel: An iconic luxury hotel, the Empress is a historic landmark in Victoria. Even if you're not staying there, you can enjoy afternoon tea or explore the hotel’s beautiful architecture.
BC Legislature Building: This grand building is home to the provincial government of British Columbia. You can take guided tours to learn about its history and architecture.
Victoria Harbour Ferry Tour: Taking a small ferry tour is a fun and intimate way to experience the harbor, with many options for sightseeing tours and water taxi services.
Fisherman’s Wharf: A vibrant area with floating homes, seafood vendors, and quirky shops. You can grab some fresh fish and chips and enjoy the scenic view.
British Columbia Aviation Museum: Located at the Victoria International Airport, this museum showcases aviation history and offers a fascinating look at aircraft and aviation technology.
Government Street: A bustling street in the heart of Victoria, Government Street is lined with shops, restaurants, and cafes. It’s perfect for a leisurely stroll while exploring the city.
Activities to Do in Victoria, British Columbia:
Take a Harbor Tour: Explore Victoria’s Inner Harbour by boat. You can hop on a Victoria Harbour Ferry for a guided tour or rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the waterfront at your own pace.
Visit the Butchart Gardens: Explore the extensive gardens, which feature several different areas, including the Sunken Garden, Rose Garden, and Japanese Garden. In summer, the gardens are in full bloom, while winter brings magical holiday lights.
Go Whale Watching: Victoria is one of the best places in the world for whale watching. Orcas, humpback whales, and other marine life can be seen from the shore or on organized boat tours.
Explore the Royal BC Museum: Delve into the history and culture of British Columbia. The museum offers a variety of exhibits ranging from Indigenous artifacts to natural history displays.
Walk Through Historic Downtown Victoria: The Old Town area of Victoria is perfect for exploring on foot, with its historic buildings, charming boutiques, and cozy cafes.
Take Afternoon Tea at the Fairmont Empress: The Fairmont Empress is famous for its traditional afternoon tea, which includes a selection of teas, finger sandwiches, scones, and pastries.
Go Cycling or Hiking in the Capital Regional District: Take advantage of Victoria's many parks, nature reserves, and cycling trails. Gonzales Hill and Sooke Hills Wilderness Park are excellent spots for outdoor adventures.
Explore Fisherman’s Wharf: Enjoy the local seafood, shop for unique items, or take a stroll among the colorful floating homes and docked boats.
Tour Craigdarroch Castle: Explore this stunning Victorian mansion and learn about the rich history of the Dunsmuir family and the city’s early industrial past.
Visit the Victoria Butterfly Gardens: Located just outside of the city, this indoor tropical rainforest houses thousands of butterflies and other exotic creatures, creating a unique and tranquil experience.
Accommodation in Victoria, British Columbia:
Fairmont Empress: The iconic Fairmont Empress Hotel is an excellent choice for luxury accommodation in Victoria. It's located near the Inner Harbour and offers elegant rooms, a spa, and afternoon tea.
Hotel Grand Pacific: A waterfront hotel offering beautiful views of the harbor, the Hotel Grand Pacific is known for its comfortable rooms and prime location close to downtown.
The Magnolia Hotel & Spa: This boutique hotel is perfect for those seeking luxury in a more intimate setting. It’s located in the heart of Victoria, with stylish rooms and a relaxing spa.
Victoria Marriott Inner Harbour: A well-rated hotel that offers both comfort and convenience, located near Victoria’s Inner Harbour. It’s ideal for those looking for a central location and good amenities.
Oak Bay Beach Hotel: This historic hotel offers a picturesque setting near Oak Bay. The hotel has luxurious rooms, an outdoor hot tub, and spectacular ocean views.
Airbnb: There are also many Airbnb options in Victoria, ranging from cozy apartments in the downtown area to charming heritage homes near the water.
Budget Accommodation: For those traveling on a budget, there are several hostels and affordable hotels like the Helm’s Inn and Ocean Island Inn offering comfortable, budget-friendly stays.
od and Restaurants in Victoria, British Columbia:
Red Fish Blue Fish: A popular seafood spot located on the dock in Victoria’s Inner Harbour. It serves fresh, sustainable fish and chips, tacos, and other seafood favorites.
Nautical Nellies: A high-end seafood restaurant offering fresh local seafood and an extensive wine list. It's perfect for a special dinner with views of the harbor.
The Fish Store at Fisherman’s Wharf: A great place for fresh seafood, The Fish Store serves up delicious fish and chips and offers picnic-style seating right by the water.
Pagliacci’s: A local favorite for Italian cuisine. The cozy atmosphere and generous portions make this a popular spot for both locals and visitors.
The Local Kitchen & Bar: This casual yet refined restaurant is known for its use of local ingredients, offering fresh seafood, seasonal dishes, and a great selection of craft beers.
Café Brio: A charming spot offering Mediterranean-inspired dishes with local, organic ingredients. It’s a great place for lunch or a casual dinner.
Dutch Bakery & Diner: A Victoria institution, this bakery serves up delicious homemade baked goods, sandwiches, and breakfast options in a relaxed, no-frills setting.
Local Culture in Victoria, British Columbia:
British Colonial History: Victoria is one of Canada’s oldest cities, and its colonial history is still evident in its architecture, museums, and historical sites, such as the Royal BC Museum and Craigdarroch Castle.
Vibrant Arts Scene: Victoria has a thriving arts and cultural community, with many local galleries, theaters, and events like the Victoria Symphony and Victoria Film Festival.
Indigenous Heritage: The city is located on the traditional territories of the Songhees and Esquimalt Nations, and their culture is woven into the fabric of the city. Local museums and cultural centers offer a deeper understanding of Indigenous history.
Outdoor Lifestyle: With its mild climate and abundant natural beauty, outdoor activities like hiking, biking, kayaking, and whale watching are an essential part of Victoria’s culture.
British Afternoon Tea Tradition: Victoria is renowned for its tradition of afternoon tea, especially at the Fairmont Empress. It's a cultural experience that reflects the city’s colonial past and British influences.