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Victoria Festivals and Events Calendar

The following calendar features festivals and events in Victoria including cultural festivities, sporting events, markets and other activities.

Being a world-class tourist destination, Victoria features numerous festivals and events including outdoor concerts, sailing races and parades. Check it out!

To jump to a specific month, click on any of the following:

January | February | March | April | May | June | July | August | September | October | November | December

Festivals and Events

The best and most important festivals and events in Victoria and the surrounding region are listed below.

( Note : Exact details about events are subject to change. See official websites for the most up-to-date information.)

January Festivals & Events

• New Year’s Day (statutory holiday) – January 1st, 2024.
• Chinese New Year – it sometimes happens in January, but in 2024 it’s on February 10th.
• Magic of Christmas at Butchart Gardens – holiday lights and illuminations (from early December until early January).
• Dine Around & Stay in Town – special promotional deals at hotels and restaurants (from mid-January until early February).
• Be a Local Tourist in Your Town – access to various local attractions for a very low price (with 2024 dates and details to be confirmed).
• Moss Street Market – a weekly market on Saturdays at Sir James Douglas School.

To see what’s happening this month in the Lower Mainland, see Vancouver’s Best Places’ January Calendar of Events .

February Festivals & Events

• Valentine’s Day – February 14th, 2024.
• Family Day – a statutory holiday in British Columbia (February 19th, 2024).
• Victoria Film Festival – a film festival with shows at various venues. (In early February.)

To see what’s happening this month in the Lower Mainland, see Vancouver’s Best Places’ February Calendar of Events .

March Festivals & Events

• Easter Long Weekend – March 28th to April 1st, 2024.
• Be a Local Tourist in Your Town – access to various local attractions for a very low price. (In early to mid-March).\
• Victoria Beer Week – many breweries in Victoria have special deals and exclusive tastings. (March 1st to 9th, 2024)
• Jazz Vespers – at the First Unitarian Church of Victoria.
• St. Patrick’s Day Festival – activities on Government Street between Yates and Fort.
• 5th Irish Whiskey Hooley – a festive event at the Irish Times Pub. Limited tickets are available with proceeds supporting the free St. Patrick’s Day Festival.
• Franco Fest – a francophone festival presented by the Victoria Francophone Société. (March 11th to 16th, 2024)

April Festivals & Events

• April Fool’s Day – April 1st, 2024.
• Earth Day – April 22nd, 2024.
• Greater Victoria Performing Arts Festival – from April 2nd until May 11th in 2024.
• Moss Street Market – a weekly outdoor farmers and artisan market every Saturday at the corner of Moss Street and Fairfield Road.
• TC 10K – Victoria’s largest running race (on April 28th, 2024).

To see what’s happening this month in the Lower Mainland, see Vancouver’s Best Places’ April Calendar of Events .

May Festivals & Events

• Ballet Victoria – the local ballet company puts on a production at the Royal Theatre on May 17th and 18th in 2024.
• Cinco de Mayo – May 5th, 2024.
• Mother’s Day – the second Sunday in May when mothers are treated extra special. (May 12th, 2024)
• Hills to Shore Artists Tour – a self-guided tour of open houses at artist studios in the Gordon Head area of Victoria. (May 11th and 12th, 2024)
• VHS Annual Plant Sale – a fundraiser hosted by the Victoria Horticultural Society at the Garth Homer Centre. (May 11th, 2024)
• Oak Bay Half Marathon – a half marathon, half marathon relay, 10K & kids 1K races – May 26th, 2024.
• Victoria Highland Games and Celtic Festival – a Scottish festival on the Victoria Day long weekend (May 18th and 19th, 2024).
• Festival of Performances – multiple performances at the Parliament Buildings  (to be confirmed).
• 123rd Victoria Day Parade – presented by CHEK TV, the procession starts at Mayfair Mall and ends at Douglas and Humboldt Street. (May 20th, 2024)
• Luxton Spring Fair – a carnival with mid-way rides and games at 1040 Marwood Avenue. (May 16th to 19th, 2024)
• Canvas Family Fest – a free family-friendly event hosted by Canvas Church at Veterans Memorial Park. (May 20th, 2024)
• Spot Prawn and Fiddle Fest – market vendors, a fiddle contest and family-friendly activities at MacDonald Park in James Bay (in late May).
• Swiftsure International Yacht Race – a large sailing race between Victoria and Washington state (May 25th to 27th, 2024).
• Beach Food Days – food trucks on weekends from early May until late August at Ocean Boulevard in Colwood (to be confirmed).
• Moss Street Market – a weekly outdoor farmers and artisan market on Saturdays at the corner of Moss Street and Fairfield Road between May and October.
• Bastion Square Public Market – downtown on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays from the end of April until the beginning of October. Also a larger version on Sundays (to be confirmed).
• James Bay Market – at the corner of Superior and Menzies Street from early May until the fall.

To see what’s happening this month in the Lower Mainland, see Vancouver’s Best Places’ May Calendar of Events .

June Festivals & Events

• Raymond James Father’s Day Walk/Run – three-kilometre and five-kilometre walking and runner events raising money to support people with prostate cancer (June 16th 2024).
• National Indigenous Peoples Day – June 21st, 2024.
• Go By Bike Week – formerly called “Bike to Work Week,” this is a free event encouraging people to ride their bikes during the week. (June 3rd to 9th, 2024)
• Oak Bay Tea Party – a community fair in Oak Bay that includes amusement rides at Willows Park. (May 31st to June 2nd, 2024)
• Queen It’s a Kinda Magic – tribute concerts take place at Victoria’s Royal Theatre on June 14th and Nanaimo’s Port Theatre on June 16th. There are also shows in Chilliwack, Coquitlam and Richmond on other days this month.

• The Michael Jackson History Show – a tribute concert featuring the music of Michael Jackson happens at the Royal Theatre on June 20th. The same show also takes place in Nanaimo one day earlier, as well as at venues in Chilliwack and West Vancouver on other dates.
• Victoria Pride Festival – a festival celebrating Pride and the 2SLGBTQIA+ communities. (From June 27th to July 7th, 2024.)
• TD Victoria International Jazz Fest – a music festival that features Jazz music performed by renowned artists from around the world takes place. (From late June to early July.)
• Bastion Square Public Market – downtown on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays from the end of April until the beginning of October. Also a larger version on Sundays. (From mid-May until around the end of September.)
• James Bay Market – at the corner of Superior and Menzies Street on Saturdays from early May until the fall. (From early May to early October.)
• Oak Bay Night Market – a large night market in Oak Bay Village on the second Wednesday of the month (to be confirmed).
• Sidney Street Market – a night market on Thursday evenings. (From mid-June until mid-September.)

To see what’s happening this month in the Lower Mainland, see Vancouver’s Best Places’ June Calendar of Events .

July Festivals & Events

• Canada Day (statutory holiday) – celebrations happen in Victoria’s Inner Harbour as well as along the Gorge Waterway (July 1st, 2024).
• Ronald McDonald House Vancouver Island Golf Tournament – the annual tournament happens at the Olympic View Golf Course this year. Twenty-four percent of children who attend Ronald McDonald House are from Vancouver Island (to be confirmed).
• Langford Beer Festival – an event with beer vendors from British Columbia as well as live music, food trucks and more at Starlight Stadium. (July 13th, 2024)
• Moss Street Market – a weekly outdoor farmers and artisan market every Saturday at the corner of Moss Street and Fairfield Road between May and October.
• Moss Street Paint In – a special one-day event that’s part of the Moss Street Market and features dozens of local artists and their work (to be confirmed).

To see what’s happening this month in the Lower Mainland, see Vancouver’s Best Places’ July Calendar of Events .

August Festivals & Events

• Victoria Symphony Splash – a musical performance on a boat off the shores of Victoria featuring fireworks on the August long weekend (to be confirmed).
• Music by the Sea – live music at the Victoria International Marina in early August (to be confirmed).
• Victoria International Cycling Festival – a large cycling race on the August long weekend (to be confirmed).
• BC Day (statutory holiday)   – August 5th, 2024.
• Dragon Boat Festival – dragon boat races in the Inner Harbour (in mid-August) (to be confirmed).
• Victoria Fringe Festival – a showcasing of theatrical art at various venues in Victoria from late August until early September (to be confirmed).
• Bowker Creek Brush Up – an art show along the Bowker Creek walkway featuring many local artists in August (to be confirmed).
• Vancouver Island Blues Bash – a collection of free and ticketed Jazz concerts at various venues around the city on the September long weekend (to be confirmed).
• North Saanich Flavour Trails – an Ol’ Fashioned Farm Celebration takes place at the Sandown Centre for Regenerative Agriculture in North Saanich (to be confirmed).
• Moss Street Market – a weekly outdoor farmers and artisan market from 10:00 am until 2:00 pm every Saturday at the corner of Moss Street and Fairfield Road between May and October.
• Bastion Square Public Market – downtown on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays from May until the end of September.
• Oak Bay Night Market – a large night market in Oak Bay Village on the second Wednesday of the month.

To see what’s happening this month in the Lower Mainland, see Vancouver’s Best Places’ August Calendar of Events .

September Festivals & Events

• Capital City Comic Con – a gathering of all things pop culture including toys, comics, and games at the Victoria Conference Centre and Crystal Garden (to be confirmed).
• Saanich Fair – a fair in Saanich that features many events and rides in early September (August 31st to September 4th, 2024).
• Labour Day (statutory holiday) – September 2nd, 2024.
• Great Canadian Beer Festival – an old beer festival at Royal Athletic Park showcasing more than 90 breweries from all over the country (to be confirmed).
• Island Prostate Ride to Live – a fundraising event at Enrico Winery with over 250 motorcycles (in mid-September).
• Luxton Fall Fair – a carnival with mid-way rides and games at 1040 Marwood Avenue (to be confirmed).
• Rifflandia Music Festival – a music festival featuring local and international artists in mid-September (to be confirmed).
• Oak Bay Night Market – a large night market in Oak Bay Village (to be confirmed).

To see what’s happening this month in the Lower Mainland, see Vancouver’s Best Places’ September Calendar of Events .

October Festivals & Events

• Victoria Marathon – a marathon, half marathon and 8K running race on the Thanksgiving long weekend.
• Go By Bike Week – formerly called “Bike to Work Week,” this is a free event encouraging people to ride their bikes during the week.
• Thanksgiving Monday (statutory holiday) – October 14th, 2024.
• Victoria Festival of Authors – a writers’ festival that runs from late September to early October.
• Wicked Victoria – family-friendly fun on Government Street (on the weekend before Halloween).
• Halloween – October 31st, 2024.

To see what’s happening this month in the Lower Mainland, see Vancouver’s Best Places’ October Calendar of Events .

November Festivals & Events

• Remembrance Day (statutory holiday) – November 11, 2024.
• Festival of Trees – from mid-November until early January (to be confirmed).
• American Thanksgiving (US) – November 28th, 2024.
• Christmas in O ak Bay – a week of holiday season activities in Oak Bay Village between the last Sunday in November and first Saturday in December.
• Light Up the City – the fourth annual event featuring Island-wide Christmas Lighting Contests.
• 41st Santa Light Parade – a Christmas parade with different floats from Government Street and Belleville to Wharf.

To see what’s happening this month in the Lower Mainland, see Vancouver’s Best Places’ November Calendar of Events .

December Festivals & Events

• Festival of Trees – at the Bay Centre.
• Light Up the City – the third annual event featuring Island-wide Christmas Lighting Contests. (From mid-November until the end of December.)
• Christmas Day (statutory holiday) – December 25th, 2024.
• Boxing Day – December 26th, 2024.
• New Year’s Eve – December 31st, 2024.
• Christmas in Oak Bay – a week of holiday season activities in Oak Bay Village between late November and early December.
• Lights of Wonder – Christmas lights and illuminations at Centennial Square (from mid-December until the end of the month).
• The Spirit of Christmas – a winter holiday concert at the Mary Winspear Centre in Sidney.

To see what’s happening this month in the Lower Mainland, see Vancouver’s Best Places’ December Calendar of Events .

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Must Do Canada

The Best Things to Do in Canada

23 of the Best Things to Do in Victoria, BC

April 16, 2024 By Matthew G. Bailey 13 Comments

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Things to Do in Victoria – Last updated: April 21, 2024

When it comes to beautiful Canadian cities, Victoria is definitely high on the list. Located on the southern tip of Vancouver Island, Victoria is British Columbia’s capital and one of the oldest cities in the Pacific Northwest. A British settlement since 1843 and named after Queen Victoria, the city is home to a variety of historic buildings, including the beautiful parliament buildings and the world-famous Empress Hotel. The city is also home to the oldest Chinatown in Canada, vibrant First Nations communities who have called this place home long before European settlement, and is widely known as “The Garden City” thanks to its mild weather and almost year-round gardens.

Victoria is also ranked as one of the top 20 cities worldwide for its quality of life and is relatively snow-free in the winter months, something rather unusual for a Canadian city. Another benefit of visiting Victoria is the city’s surroundings, which include a stunning Pacific coastline, lush rainforest, and beautiful mountains. It’s also conveniently located near both Vancouver, BC, and Seattle, Washington.

If you’re looking to visit a beautiful laid-back city surrounded by outdoor adventure and nature, Victoria should definitely be on your bucket list. In this Victoria BC Travel Guide, we’ll share with you some of the best things to do in Victoria while also sharing some tips on saving money, how to get around, where to stay, and much more.

Planning your trip to Victoria last minute?

Below are some of the top tours, hotels, and more! Don’t forget to plan ahead when considering the top things to do in Victoria!

🇨🇦 Top Activities and Tours in Victoria:

• Best Whale-Watching Tour : If there’s one activity in Victoria that you shouldn’t miss, it’s a whale-watching tour. This is one of the best places in the world to see Orca Whales!
• Best Walking Food Tour : With more than 1,000 5-star reviews, this is your best chance to explore Victoria’s history and culinary scene on a walking food tour.
• Best Seaplane Flightseeing Tour : If you’re looking to get some incredible views of Victoria and the surrounding area, you’ll want to take a seaplane flightseeing tour.
• Best Comprehensive Tour from Vancouver to Victoria : If you’re in Vancouver and short on time, this 13-hour tour from Vancouver to Victoria will give you an excellent taste of British Columbia’s capital city.

🛌 Top Hotels in Victoria:

• Fairmont Empress (luxury)
• Inn at Laurel Point (mid-range)
• Red Lion Inn & Suites (budget)

🚗 Visiting Victoria independently?   Be sure to book your Victoria rental car ahead of time to ensure availability!

Table of Contents

Things to Do in Victoria BC

Victoria is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Canada, which creates loads of attractions, activities, and other things to do. Below is a list of some of the best things to do when visiting Victoria.

Get Stunning Views from Malahat Skywalk

The Malahat Skywalk , one of the newest attractions in Victoria, offers a unique and captivating experience that stands out as one of the top things to do in Victoria. Perched on the southern end of Vancouver Island, this awe-inspiring structure provides visitors with a 360-degree panoramic view of the surrounding natural beauty—from the deep blue waters of the Saanich Inlet to the distant, snow-capped peaks of the Olympic Mountains. The adventure begins with a scenic walk through a lush Arbutus forest, leading up to an exhilarating ascent of the spiralling, 10-story wooden tower. At the summit, guests can either soak in the breathtaking views or opt for a thrilling descent via the 20-meter spiral slide. The combination of stunning landscapes, innovative design, and adventurous elements makes the Malahat Skywalk a must-visit destination, appealing to nature lovers, photographers, and thrill-seekers alike.

Smell the Roses at the Butchart Gardens

Visited by more than one million people each year, the Butchart Gardens has become an icon of Victoria, as well as a National Historic Site of Canada. This breathtaking 55-acre garden is home to 900 bedding plant varieties, 26 greenhouses, and 50 full-time gardeners! Whether you’re travelling solo, with your family, or on a romantic date with your partner, the Butchart Gardens is a must-do when visiting Victoria. It’s just a stunning place to walk around. However, they also have a Saturday fireworks show, boat tours, evening entertainment, and a lovely gift shop. Roses, tulips, daffodils, hyacinths, and Japanese maples are just some of the magnificent flora you might see in this world-famous garden.

Prefer a tour? Click here to learn more about a popular tour from Vancouver that includes the Butchart Gardens and downtown Victoria.

Visit the Royal BC Museum

Founded in 1886, the Royal British Columbia Museum is a great place to learn about BC’s natural and human history. There are three permanent galleries inside, including Natural History, Becoming BC, and the First Peoples Gallery. The natural history collection alone has more than 750,000 records of specimens that are almost exclusively from the province. The Royal BC Museum is also home to touring exhibitions, such as the Titanic, Egyptian artifacts, and the Vikings. You can also watch educational films and commercial films at the IMAX Victoria theatre. It’s also conveniently located within walking distance from the Empress Hotel and the inner harbour.

Visit Fisherman’s Wharf

Not far from Victoria’s Inner Harbour is the lovely floating neighbourhood of Fishermans Wharf. This hidden treasure is a great place to eat food, shop at unique stores, and go on eco-tours. This place was busy with people eating fresh seafood when we visited, but our favourite part was touring the floating homes and just imagining what it would be like to live in a house that moved with the water. I believe we even saw some guesthouses if you want a really cool experience in Victoria.

Travel Idea: Click Here for the Victoria Harbour Smartphone Audio Walking Tour .

Go for a Stroll at Beacon Hill Park

If you’re looking for a beautiful park to stroll around for the afternoon, you’ll be hard-pressed to find one better than Beacon Hill Park , which is conveniently located in downtown Victoria. Simply walk up Belleville Street past the Museum of Natural History and the Imax Theatre to Douglas Street, take a right, and then climb a short hill until you reach the top. Beautiful inner-city nature awaits you. However, do note that the park is a whopping 200 acres in size, so plan your visit accordingly.

Explore the Inner Harbour and Victoria Pier

One of the best things to do in Victoria is to simply stroll along the inner harbour, which is one of the most beautiful harbours in the world. This is where you’ll find many historic streets and buildings, as well as a variety of festivals and shows throughout the summer. It’s also home to an international ferry terminal, float planes, and many ecotourism businesses.

Take a Walking Food Tour

One of the great things about taking a walking tour is that you’ll actually learn about the place you’re visiting. You’ll learn about the street you’re walking on or the neighbourhood you’re walking through, helping to make the city truly come alive for you. However, taking a 3-hour food tour with A Taste of Victoria Food Tours will add the experience of trying a variety of delicious food from local restaurants and bakeries. This was one of our favourite ways of exploring Victoria as we got to learn some history while sampling things like Italian baked goods, perogies, homemade ice cream, balsamic vinegar and olive oils, and some delicious meatballs.

Click Here to Book Your Food Tour!

Visit the Victoria Parliament Buildings

Right next to the Inner Harbour is the impossible-to-miss British Columbia parliament buildings . Overlooking stunning Victoria Harbour, these beautiful historical buildings are as beautiful on the outside as they are on the inside. Visitors are able to do self-guided tours of the buildings or can go on a regularly scheduled 35-minute guided tour, which occurs seven days a week during the summer months. The Parliamentary Dining Room and Gift Shop are also open to the public year-round.

Go inside Craigdarroch Castle

For a Victorian experience and a real-life example of a “bonanza castle” – massive homes built for wealthy entrepreneurs during the industrial age – you’ll want to visit the Craigdarroch Castle . Built between 1887 and 1890 on a hill offering impressive views of the area, you’ll find four floors of exquisite stained-glass windows, intricate woodwork and fabulous Victorian-era furnishings.

Tour Alert: Click here to visit the castle as part of a private tour from Vancouver .

Go Whale Watching

One of the top things to do in the warmer months is whale watching . Thanks to an abundance of orcas (killer whales), the areas around Victoria and Vancouver Island are some of the best places in the world for these majestic marine animals. While we haven’t gone whale watching directly from Victoria, we have done it a few hours north in Port Renfrew, which was the best whale-watching tour we’ve ever done. We’ve also experienced Vancouver whale watching on the mainland and it was also very good. Highly recommended!

• Orca Spirit Adventures : This is the company we were with just off the coast of Port Renfrew. Despite being the last day of the year for tours in Port Renfrew, we saw dozens of Humpback whales and orcas, making it the wildest whale-watching tour of our lives.

Click here to book a VERY POPULAR half-day whale-watching tour!

Go Small at Miniature World

Honey, I shrunk the kids! Remember that movie? Now you can somewhat experience that at one of Victoria’s top tourist attractions – Miniature World . This little world features more than 85 miniature dioramas and displays, including the world’s smallest operational sawmill, the Great Canadian Railway, one of the world’s largest model railways, and even two of the world’s largest Doll Houses circa 1880 complete with over 50 furnished rooms! Talk about attention to detail!

Abkhazi Garden

This is yet another reason why Victoria is nicknamed “The Garden City”. Complete with an exquisite heritage home, the beautiful Abkhazi garden was created in 1946 by Prince and Princess Abkhazi. It’s only one acre in size but features dramatic glaciated rocky slopes, magnificent native Garry oaks and gorgeous vistas, Japanese maples and rhododendrons, carpets of naturalized bulbs, and much more. It might be small in size but it’s the overall design that leaves the greatest impression upon visitors.

Visit the Victoria Bug Zoo

First, a miniature world and now a miniature zoo? What’s with Victoria and the little things in life? For those interested in insects and spiders, this is the place to be! this is a great opportunity to view and experience multi-legged creatures from around the world in a safe, fun and friendly atmosphere. You’ll find approximately 50 species, including Canada’s largest ant colony, giant walking stick bugs, alien-eyes praying mantids, and even glow-in-the-dark scorpions. Whether you’re with kids or not, bring your camera for an unforgettable experience at the Victoria Bug Zoo !

Stop by the Empress Hotel

The Fairmont has done it again. This hotel is not only one of the top tourist attractions in the city but also one of the most historic buildings as well. Stepping inside is like stepping back in time to the days of the British Empire. Admiring the flora crawling up the building from the outside is just stunning. This iconic Canadian Pacific Railway hotel was built between 1904 and 1908 and has become one of the world’s most famous hotels. But even if you don’t want to shell out the dollars to spend the night at the Empress Hotel , you can just visit the hotel or even partake in afternoon tea, which is served in the lobby to more than 800 visitors per day.

Tour Idea: Click here for a Victoria Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour .

Explore Chinatown

It’s quite amazing how many cities around the world are home to Chinatown . But Victoria’s is unique in that it’s the second oldest Chinatown in all of North America, second only to the one in San Francisco. Created by Chinese immigrants more than 150 years ago, Chinatown has become a testament to the resiliency of the culture and traditions brought overseas long ago. From the Gate of Harmonious Interest to the bold colours of lucky red and gold throughout the neighbourhood, Chinatown is simply a place you shouldn’t miss when visiting Victoria. While there, don’t miss meandering down Fan Tan Alley as well, which is one of the narrowest streets in Canada.

Go Kayaking

Regardless if this is your first kayaking adventure or if you consider yourself a pro, Victoria is an awesome place to paddle and is the gateway to world-class paddling destinations around Vancouver Island. It’s a wonderful way to get some exercise while getting unique views of the harbour and the city, while also having the opportunity to spot local marine wildlife. Being surrounded by water, Victoria offers a huge variety of paddle sports experiences from the serenity of a calm lake, or the joy of an urban paddle on the inner harbour, all the way up to the excitement of a quick-moving current. It’s not just kayaking either. Paddle-boarding is also popular, as are canoeing and other water vessels. The best time for kayaking in Victoria is April through October, but thanks to the city’s mild climate, it’s possible to paddle all year long. There are many companies offering rentals and tours .

As you might imagine, with so much water surrounding the city, sailing is another popular activity in Victoria, BC. Whether you want to learn how to sail or just go for a scenic tour around the harbour, this is a great place to do it.

Get Amazing Views from the Malahat Skywalk

If you’re looking to get incredible views of the surrounding islands and sea, check out the Malahat Skywalk, which is only 30 minutes from Victoria. This new incredible lookout attraction rises up to 250m above sea level, offering a sweeping panorama view of Mt. Baker, Finlayson Arm, the Saanich Peninsula, and islands in two countries. While you’re up there, walk out onto their sturdy 84 ㎡ Adventure Net and be suspended above the centre of the tower with uninterrupted views of the lush arbutus forest and the spiralling structure beneath your feet. Even better? Choose to take the ramp back down or go even faster on their 20-metre Spiral Slide, all the way to the bottom.

With so much nature surrounding the city, Victoria is an awesome base for stunning hiking opportunities. Whether you hike in the city or outside the city, there is no shortage of trails and natural sites, including waterfalls, mountaintops, historic sites, and coastal treks. Most trails are only 30 minutes outside of downtown but will make you feel like you’ve gone deep into the backcountry, except with more people. Trailheads are well signposted, usually with maps, and trails are very well maintained. Most hiking trails are open year-round and are dog-friendly as long as they are on a leash. Some popular options include Coast Trail in Sooke, Mount Work Hiking Trail, Thetis Lake Hiking Trail, and the Trestle Bridge Hiking Trail in Goldstream Provincial Park, just to name a few.

See the Victoria Butterfly Gardens

Who doesn’t love butterflies? Well, now you can step into an indoor tropical rainforest filled with thousands of butterflies fluttering about the place. There are over 70 species of these magical creatures to see, as well as koi fish, turtles, poison dart frogs, parrots, flamingos, and many tropical flowers.

Click here to purchase your ticket to the Butterfly Gardens .

Get a View from the lookout

If you’re looking for one of the best views of the city, head on over to the downtown Harbour Centre’s observation deck for panoramic views over Victoria, as well as the neighbouring mountains and ocean. Click here to see ticket prices.

Fort Rodd Hill National Historic Site

If you’re looking for a Parks Canada National Historic Site , this 19th-century coastal artillery fort is bound to satisfy. Tour through secret bunkers, military command posts and original 19th-century buildings while also having the opportunity to camp overnight in group-friendly oTENTik’s. There’s also the adjacent Fisgard Lighthouse National Historic Site, which is home to Canada’s west coast’s first lighthouse.

Day Trips to the Smaller Islands

While Vancouver Island is quite big , there are actually hundreds of smaller Gulf Islands and inlets in the Georgia Strait around Victoria, BC. These make for excellent day trips. You could rent a boat, arrange a tour, or even take the ferry to popular islands such as Gabriola, Saltspring, and/or Thetis. Once on the little islands, you can simply relax in nature, go biking or hiking, visit local artisans and eateries, or find yourself a nice beach to whisk the day away. Ferry rates are about $10 CAD ($7 USD).

Explore Vancouver Island

While some certainly visit Victoria just for Victoria, we highly recommend taking another week or more and exploring more of Vancouver Island . It’s truly a special place and one of the most beautiful areas in the country. You’ll find gorgeous rainforest treks, mystical coastal beaches, jaw-dropping waterfalls, lovely little island towns, and the best surfing in Canada out by Tofino. There are also whale watching and wildlife tours all over the island, the opportunity to go snorkelling with salmon around Campbell River, and some of the best multi-day hikes in North America. Where will you go?

Tips for Saving Money in Victoria

With a little effort, you can turn Vancouver Island into an affordable travel destination. Most of the outdoor stuff is free so if you stick to that and cook your own food, you can keep your costs pretty low! Here are some of my ways to save money when you travel to Vancouver Island:

Couchsurf: Although Couchsurfing requires quite a bit of upfront work, it can be a great way to meet locals while saving mega dollars on accommodation.

Camping: Vancouver Island is home to a plethora of camping opportunities for those well-equipped. Use the DiscoverCamping.ca website to find potential campsites around the island. Expect to pay around $20 CAD or more per campsite.

Happy Hours: When looking for pubs and restaurants, find out if they have a happy hour. This is a great way to save money on food and drinks, while still enjoying the dining scene of each place.

Go Car-Free: If you’re only planning on visiting one city, such as Victoria or Nanaimo, consider leaving behind your vehicle and taking the ferry as a single person. You’ll save more than $50.

Go Biking: Vancouver Island is one of the top places in the country for mountain biking, so if you have the experience, you can save a lot of money by biking from destination to destination.

Hitchhike: Considering its popularity, there are many opportunities to try hitchhiking. Obviously, you’ll want to check with the local laws beforehand, but this can be a great way to save money. This should only be considered if you have lots of time.

Where to Stay in Victoria

Victoria is home to a plethora of accommodations, ranging from budget hostels to super high-end hotels and everything in between. We’ve listed some good options below but for all the best options, check out our guide to the best hotels in Victoria .

Fairmont Empress: If budget is of no concern, it’s hard to beat the famous Fairmont Empress, which offers a spectacular location and a wide variety of amenities such as a spa, pool, restaurants, and more. Click here to see reviews and availability .

Abigail’s Hotel: With almost all 5-star reviews, this beautiful hotel offers a wide variety of amenities such as free delicious breakfast, free parking, and even a small library to relax in. Guests rave about the comfortable beds as well. Click here to see reviews and availability .

Helm’s Inn: Located just outside of popular Beacon Hill Park. this all-suite hotel offers spacious accommodations, free WiFi, a refrigerator, a microwave, and very high reviews. They also have some kitchenettes available and have a coin-operated laundry facility on-site. Click here for reviews and availability .

Marketa’s Bed & Breakfast: This is where we stayed during our 150-day road trip across Canada. The breakfast alone is worth the stay, including home-baked scones or muffins, Montreal-style bagels, French toast, and more. This heritage home showcases Edwardian décor, has four-poster beds, and is very centrally located and within walking distance of many popular sights. Click here for reviews and availability .

Where to Eat in Victoria

There’s no shortage of places to chow down in Victoria.

Spinnakers : This is definitely the coolest place we ate at during our visit to Victoria. Not only is it a fancy pub but it’s also a brewery. From Kale Caeser to Shrimp Flatbread and Wild Pacific Halibut Fettacunni, Spinnakers is a great place for any meal of the day. But what makes it more special, aside from the views and ambience, is that they also brew their own beer. There are lots of options so we ended up having their beer and chocolate pairing flight, which included four house beer tasters and four handcrafted house-made TCHO Chocolate Truffles by Chocolatier Crystal Duck. We can’t wait to go back!

Getting to Victoria BC

If you’re a visitor looking for different ways of getting to Victoria, here’s some practical advice on how to get there.

Getting to Victoria by Plane

If you’re flying into Victoria, you’ll most likely be flying into Victoria International Airport (YYJ). Although there are other smaller airports around the island, this is the one that gets used by most visitors. It’s located just 25 minutes from downtown, is the 3rd busiest airport in British Columbia and offers easy access to downtown Victoria, including by public bus or taxi. The public bus costs $5 CAD but space for baggage is limited.

Getting to Victoria by Car and Ferry

Victoria is also a great place to visit by car, especially if you plan on exploring more of Vancouver Island. If you’re driving to Victoria, you will need to take a ferry from the mainland to either Victoria or to Nanaimo. Most people would be either driving west from interior BC and Vancouver or potentially south from Washington. The crossing time is approximately 1.5 hours. The BC ferries leave from Vancouver’s Tsawwassen to Swartz Bay (Victoria). The other option is to take the ferry to Nanaimo, and then drive 2-hours to Victoria. The cost for a car and driver is approximately $75 CAD for a one-way trip. However, it’s much better to get a rental car and have all the freedom you need. Depending on timing, you want to arrive 1-2 hours earlier than the ferry departure as it can be very busy. Upon arrival, you will be in Sidney, BC, which is 32 km (20 miles) north of Victoria, taking approximately 30 minutes by car to reach downtown Victoria. You could also take a ferry to Nanaimo and travel to Victoria from there.

Connecting to the Ferry from YVR: Tsawwassen is the closest ferry terminal to Vancouver Airport for those looking to take the ferry to Victoria, BC. For more information on how to take the bus from Vancouver Airport to the Victoria ferry. You can take public transportation from the airport to the ferry, or if you rent a car, just drive to the ferry terminal.

Seattle to Victoria Ferry: Another really cool feature about Victoria BC is that you can actually take a ferry right from downtown Seattle to downtown Victoria, sailing through some really beautiful coastal scenery. The journey takes approximately 3 hours and starts at around $110 USD.

Getting to Victoria by Bus

Just like driving to Victoria, the only way to get to Vancouver Island is to take the ferry. There is no bus that takes you all the way to Victoria from Vancouver. However, you can take a bus to the ferry, and then another bus from the ferry to Victoria. This entire route will take approximately 4 hours. Basically, you need to take the Canada Line and ride the SkyTrain to Bridgeport Station and then take bus 620 from bay 11 to Tsawwassen ferry terminal (45 minutes or more). Jump on the ferry and take it to Swartz Bay (1.5 hours). Once on Vancouver Island, catch the 70 express bus or 72 bus to downtown Victoria (1 hour +). The total cost, including the ferry, will cost around $30.

Getting to Victoria by Tour

Another option for exploring Victoria and Vancouver is a tour from Vancouver that includes the ferry .

How to Get Around Victoria

Victoria is not a huge city, and thus, there is no subway train system. There is, however, a pretty good public bus network, as well as taxis to get you around. You could also rent a car, or if not going too far, Victoria is also a great place to walk or bike.

Bus: Public bus will take you almost anywhere you need to go within Victoria, as well as to the airport and the ferry terminal. Check the BC Transit schedule and also NextRide, which provides real-time bus arrival. Another option is to take the Hop-On Hop-Off double-decker bus, which takes you to all the popular tourist sites, allowing you to get on and off as you please.

Taxi: Like most of Canada, taxis are not cheap but they can be convenient. Prices start around $3.50 CAD and go up by $1.89 CAD per kilometre after.

Bicycle: Victoria is a wonderful city to traverse by bike. There are a variety of options for renting a bike, including electric bikes as well. Another option is the u-bike , which you just grab and go across the city. The only thing you’ll need in advance is an account. The cost is approximately $1 for 30 minutes.

Walk: If you’re only going to be exploring downtown Victoria, walking is the best way to do it. There are even self-guided walking tours and paid tours you could partake in.

Carshare: Another way to get around is by carshare, which is currently operated by both Modo and Zipcar.

Harbour Ferry: For inner-city travel, the Harbour Ferry is a great way to get around and enjoy the beautiful coastal scenery. It runs from mid-February until the end of October (weather permitting).

Weather for Victoria Travel (Best Time to Visit)

Victoria is one of the mildest cities in Canada, receiving very little snowfall and rarely dipping below 0°C. It does, however, get quite a bit of rain during the winter months.

March-May: The spring months are actually a great time to visit Victoria, as this is when many flowers being to bloom and the weather warms up. The average temperature is about 10°C – 18°C (50-65 degrees F).

June-August: Like most of Canada, the summer months are the busiest and costliest time to visit. However, this is when the weather is at its warmest. With maximum warmth and minimum rain, this is the best time for getting outdoors and going walking, biking or hiking. It’s also a better time to go whale watching. You’ll want to consider booking accommodation weeks or even months in advance. The average temperature is around 22°C (73 degrees F).

September-November: The fall is also a great time to visit the island, though you should expect more rain. However, we explored the island in September and had beautiful weather for weeks. We also went whale watching on the last day of the season and had the best whale-watching tour of our lives. You just never know. Just pack a sweater and a rain jacket and umbrella and you’ll be fine. The average temperature is 15°C – 20°C (55-68 degrees F).

December-February: These months represent the winter and is known as the offseason in Victoria. If you don’t mind colder weather and rain, this is the best time to save money on accommodation as well as avoid crowds. There is also skiing on Vancouver Island if you’re looking to go skiing or snowboarding. The average temperature is 9°C (47 degrees F).

Fun Things to Do on Vancouver Island and Beyond

Another great part about Victoria is that there are so many things to do outside of the city as well. From going hiking in the rainforest to camping on a beach to driving up to Tofino to go surfing, Vancouver Island is a place you could spend weeks exploring. You could also head over to Vancouver and continue exploring mainland Canada. The options are seemingly endless.

For more on what to do outside of Victoria, check out these articles below:

• Things to Do in British Columbia
• Best Hotels in Victoria
• Two-Day Victoria Itinerary
• Things to Do in Vancouver
• Driving from Vancouver to Calgary
• Canada Road Trip Ideas

About Matthew G. Bailey

Matthew G. Bailey is the founder and editor-in-chief of Must Do Canada. Growing up in Alberta to a mother from Quebec and a father from Newfoundland, Matt spent his childhood playing hockey under the Northern Lights and hanging out in the forest before moving to Calgary and travelling to more than 250 cities spanning 42 countries and 6 continents. He loves travel, learning new things, playing sports, writing, making videos, photography, and scuba diving. You can also find him at LiveLimitless.net .

Reader Interactions

April 5, 2021 at 7:18 pm

This looks so amazing! Thanks for all this information!

April 7, 2021 at 12:56 pm

What a great article, highlighting so many of Victoria’s attractions. Reading this has made me what to revisit many of them.

April 28, 2021 at 2:06 pm

Articles really make me want to see all of this for myself.

May 10, 2021 at 7:27 pm

When visiting Butchart Gardens – leave your selfie sticks at home, they’re not allowed in the gardens. Yay – finally banned!

May 12, 2021 at 8:50 am

I love Victoria!

May 13, 2021 at 2:52 pm

The gardens are so beautiful at Butchart Gardens, this is definitely on my bucket list.

May 18, 2021 at 8:23 am

Looking forward to getting out to Victoria again. I love it out there!

May 26, 2021 at 6:45 pm

I’ve always wanted to go explore Victoria

January 8, 2022 at 12:38 pm

Great website, each spot is beautifully articulated!

Being new to Canada, this was a great way to learn about incredible and historical places. Hope the situation gets better to get my boots out soon, and plan for my most awaited AB and BC adventure trip this summer.

January 8, 2022 at 1:17 pm

Thank you so much. Yes, we really hope it becomes easier too. Have you seen our Youtube channel?

June 6, 2022 at 10:08 pm

There’s a few things in here I didn’t know about. Happy to find new places to explore.

March 9, 2023 at 11:20 am

We missed you at Haunted Manor Mini Golf! See you next time hopefully?!

March 9, 2023 at 11:58 am

That would be awesome! Not sure when we’ll be back but hopefully not long

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Itineraries

The only challenge is choosing what to do.

Some travellers only plan one day in Victoria, which leaves little time to get the full island experience. Browse our sample multi-day itineraries for ideas of what to do while visiting Victoria.

To take a look at what’s new in Greater Victoria in 2024, click here .

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34 Incredible Things to Do In Victoria, BC (Our 2024 Guide)

Written By: Sara Oprasic

Published On: April 13, 2024

Set at the end of the mostly wild Vancouver Island, Victoria is a wonderful city on Canada’s west coast. Known for the abundance of outdoor activities and stunning Victorian architecture, it’s a place where colonial history is intertwined with indigenous culture. I lived in Victoria, BC, for a year and got to explore all the great things that it has to offer. These are all my personal recommendations.

Attend high tea for brunch and then head to Chinatown for dinner while stopping by the harbor to watch seals and gigantic cruisers. Victoria is a city that can offer something to everyone because it has it all, from excellent art galleries to thrilling ziplines and hiking trails. 

Whether you’re in town for a day or a week, you won’t struggle to fill your itinerary with fun activities. With my insider knowledge, I compiled this guide of the top things to do in Victoria BC that will help you put together the best itinerary! 

Best Things To Do In Victoria BC

Victoria BC is known for its expansive botanical gardens, whale-watching tours, and vast parks. The majority of the city’s best attractions are outdoors, making it a top destination for travelers who love exploring off the beaten path. 

But don’t let that fool you; Victoria also offers an endless amount of things to do indoors, including a haunted manor with a pinball machine and some of the best museums in British Columbia. 

Best of Victoria BC Quick Guide

• Must See: Chinatown, Royal BC Museum, Craigdarroch Castle, Beacon Hill Park, Parliament Buildings,  Afternoon Tea
• Where To Stay: Ocean Island Inn , Fairmont Empress , The Oak Bay Beach Hotel
• Fun To Do: Whale Watching, Zipline Tours, Mount Douglas, Boat Tours, Kayaking
• Day Trips: Fort Rodd Hill, Thetis Lake Park, Malahat SkyWalk 
• Must-Try Foods: Wild Salmon, Dungeness Crab, Bannock Bread, Chinese food 

1. Guided Walking Tour of Victoria

Victoria is a gorgeous city with many stunning buildings. Of course, if it’s your first visit, you won’t be familiar with the purpose of many of those buildings, and you might miss out on some gems that are open for visitors. 

Arrange a guided tour with a local, and you’ll not only be taken to all the best spots in the city but also learn the history behind some of its best architectural gems. Most walking tours of Victoria cover the city’s best neighborhoods and streets, including the famous Government Street and Fan Tan Alley. 

My favorite walking tours of Victoria also allow you to discover the city’s culinary scene. Strolling around the city will burn quite a few calories, and what better way to make up for them than to indulge in Victoria’s specialties in its best restaurants? 

Practical Information 

Walking tours of Victoria usually take 2-3 hours and cost $60-100 per participant. 

2. Royal BC Museum 

The Royal BC Museum is Victoria’s best and most popular museum. If you have time to visit only one museum or gallery while you’re in the city, make it this one. It has three main galleries: Natural History, the First Peoples Gallery, and Becoming BC. 

Come here to learn about the indigenous people of British Columbia, as well as about the state’s general history and how it evolved over the years. Younger visitors are more likely to enjoy the Natural History gallery, which features dinosaur skeletons and models of various animals. 

Plan to spend at least a couple of hours at this museum, and that’s if you’re going to rush through the place. If you take your time with each exhibit, the visit can easily last 3-4 hours. Also, I must mention that the museum has a nice IMAX theater, where you can attend screenings of nature documentaries as well as blockbuster films. 

Practical Information

The Royal BC Museum is open daily from 10 AM to 5 PM. Admission is $18 for adults, and attending IMAX screenings is an extra $12. 

3. Tour The Fantastic Craigdarroch Castle

Craigdarroch Castle is one of the prettiest Victorian buildings in Victoria and a very popular historical landmark. It was originally built by Robert Dunsmuir, a coal magnate, during the late 19th century. 

Visit the castle and go on a guided tour of the premises to see opulent period furniture, beautiful decorations, and lovely stained-glass windows. The building is magnificent both inside and out, and it’s one of the best locations for architecture tours in Victoria. 

The castle is situated in Rockland, roughly a 30-minute walk (or 10-minute bike ride) from Downtown Victoria. 

Craigdarroch Castle is open for tours Wednesday through Sunday, from 10 AM to 4 PM. Guided tours are $20.60 for adults, and tickets can be bought online or at the entrance. 

4. Rent A Bicycle

Victoria BC is known as Canada’s cycling capital, and it’s one of the most bike-friendly cities in the Pacific Northwest. Bike rentals are available throughout the town, and many accommodations offer them to their guests. 

Cycling around Victoria is not just great for getting around the town quickly for very little money, but also a super way of immersing yourself in the local culture. Not to mention that it’s usually faster than traveling by bus, plus you won’t have to worry about rush hour traffic. 

If you’re in great physical condition, you might even be able to bike to attractions far outside the city center, and you’d get to see some wonderful scenery along the way. And if spending several hours on a bicycle isn’t all that appealing, consider it for a quick tour of Downtown Victoria at least. 

Bikes are available for hire in multiple spots throughout the town. The average price is $40 per day, although you can get a better rate when you rent a bike for a longer period. 

5. Art Gallery of Greater Victoria

The Art Gallery of Greater Victoria is a wonderful mid-size gallery housed in two distinct spaces. One part of the gallery is in a new, modern building, while the other sits inside the historic Spencer Mansion. 

Come to this gallery to admire a sizeable collection of gorgeous art, including pieces from Canada and Asia. In fact, the gallery’s garden even has a Shinto shrine that all visitors are encouraged to see. It’s one of Victoria’s best attractions for lovers of art, history, and architecture. 

The Art Gallery of Greater Victoria is open from 10 AM to 5 PM and charges a $15 entrance fee. However, admission is free on the first Sunday of the month and on Thursday evenings from 5 PM to 9 PM. 

6. Tour The Parliament Buildings 

The Legislative Assembly of British Columbia is hands down one of the most stunning government buildings I’ve seen in my entire life. For me, the buildings look like they were plucked from a European city and transported to Victoria. 

But they weren’t; the Parliament Buildings were constructed in neo-Baroque style at the end of the 19th century right here. The entire park between Government Street and Menzies Street is a fabulous place where you can enjoy some of the best architecture in the city. 

See the fountains, the impeccable landscaping, and all the different memorial statues. You can even join a guided tour to see the impressive interior of these magnificent buildings. It will cost you nothing, and it will undoubtedly enrich your experience in Victoria, BC. 

Free guided tours of the Parliament Buildings in Victoria take place several times throughout the day, between 8:30 AM and 4:30 PM. 

7. Picnic at Beacon Hill Park

Beacon Hill is a sprawling public park separating James Bay from Fairfield. It is easily accessible from central Victoria and one of the best destinations in the city if you want to spend a couple of hours in nature but aren’t quite in the mood for an excursion that includes traveling far outside the city center. 

Featuring ponds, walking trails, and landscaped gardens, Beacon Hill is an oasis amid this concrete jungle. It has everything from totems to peacocks, and coming here is a must for understanding why Victoria and British Columbia, in general, are known for fantastic natural landmarks and outdoor activities. 

Beacon Hill Park is open daily from 8 AM to 8 PM. Entrance to the park is free of charge. 

8. Walk Through Historic Fan Tan Alley

Fan Tan Alley is a historic alleyway in Victoria’s Chinatown district. It is lined with restaurants and boutique shops on either side, which offer some excellent shopping and dining in the city. Here, you’ll find shops that sell everything from Matcha tea to crystals and incense, so it’s definitely a place you should check out if you’re looking for unique souvenirs to buy in Victoria. 

However, I will say that this experience is entirely skippable if you’re even a little bit claustrophobic. The alley is so narrow that passing next to someone isn’t always possible, and the buildings are tall enough to cause discomfort to people who don’t like confined spaces.

But if you can navigate the tight alley without a sense of dread, it will be a top experience. The red and green storefronts are charming and go wonderfully with the exposed red brick of the buildings. The entrance to the Chinese Canadian Museum is here, and although it is small, the exhibit is interesting and worth supporting.  

Fan Tan Alley is free to access at any time, but most shops are closed until 5 p.m. 

9. Visit Fort Rodd Hill

Fort Rodd Hill is a National Historic Site best known for the Fisgard Lighthouse. The oceanfront park offers walking trails with views of old military structures, but it’s the Fisgaard lighthouse that attracts the bulk of visitors to the site. 

Climb the stairs to the top of the lighthouse to experience fantastic panoramic vistas. On clear sunny days, the view stretches all the way to the Olympic Mountains in Washington on one side and the San Juan Islands on the other. 

Fort Rodd Hill is accessible from 10 AM to 4 PM, with an admission fee of $9.

10. Hike To The Top of Mount Douglas 

Mount Douglas is a hill north of Victoria City and a great place to come for 360° panoramic views. You can cycle to the foot of the hill in about 50 minutes from central Victoria, and from there, it’s just a 30-minute hike to the lookout point at the top. There’s even a parking lot at the summit, so you can just drive up to the scenic point if you’re not in the mood for an uphill walk.  

The vista from the lookout point is one of the best in Victoria BC and it stretches into the United States. Also, multiple hiking trails are available at Mount Douglas, and you could spend a couple of hours roaming exploring the area, and marveling at the nice views. But if you’re in a rush, it’s good to know that this activity is doable in about an hour from downtown Victoria. 

Mount Douglas Park is open for visitors from 12 PM to 8 PM. Entrance to the area is free of charge, and parking at the top is also free but very limited. 

11. Historic Tours at Hatley Castle

Hatley Castle is situated in Greater Victoria, roughly a 20-minute drive (or 50-minute bike ride) from the city center. It is absolutely worth the hassle it takes to get there because the place is phenomenal. The early 20th-century castle was previously used as a residence and a naval training site and nowadays is a historic park. 

Can you imagine that people actually lived in this fantastic mansion? Even today, parts of it are used as office space and to hold classes, so you can’t just walk inside whenever you like. Visitors must sign up for guided tours to explore the interior of the mansion, but the formal gardens are accessible for free throughout the day. 

Guided tours of Hatley Castle are available upon reservation and are $22 per participant. The gardens are open from 10 AM to dusk, and access is free of charge. 

12. Swimming At Thetis Lake Regional Park

Thetis Lake Regional Park is the first nature sanctuary in Canada known for hiking trails and beaches on the lakeshore. Come here in the summer to relax in the unspoiled nature of British Columbia and enjoy some fantastic panoramic views. 

It’s a 15-minute drive from Victoria and an excellent place to come if you want to escape the crowds of the urban jungle. Pack a food basket and bring a blanket so you can set up a picnic with panoramic views of the lake after a day full of hiking and swimming. Thetis Lake Regional Park is a great destination for nature lovers in Victoria who want to explore beyond the city streets.  

Thetis Lake Regional Park is accessible at any time. There is no admission fee, but there is a parking fee of $2.25 per day. 

13. Bike Along The Galloping Goose Trail

This fun activity is only for the most avid hikers and mountain bikers, so skip it if you have zero interest in riding a mountain bike for 50+ miles. But if that sounds fun, the Galloping Goose Trail might just be the top Victoria activity for you! 

The trail follows an old railway line for roughly 55 miles from Victoria to Sooke. It’s 55 miles for the out-and-back journey, so you can cover this trail and be back in town for dinner if you’re fast enough on a mountain bike. 

This historic trail passes through urban and rural areas, as well as wilderness. You can follow the entire trail on a bike, or hike just a part of it. You can even choose to ride horses along the more rural sections of the trail, which is as much fun as it sounds. 

The Galloping Goose Trail is 55 miles for the return journey. This MTB route is recommended only for experienced mountain bikers in excellent physical conditions, as it takes roughly 5 hours to complete. 

14. Walk To The Breakwater Lighthouse 

The Breakwater Lighthouse sits at the end of a long pedestrian pathway that extends into the sea. As you stroll from James Bay to the lighthouse, you’ll get a good view of all the cruise ships and ferries that depart Victoria’s inner harbor. The walking path offers a good view of the city’s marine traffic, and it’s particularly enjoyable on warm, sunny days. 

The lighthouse at the end of the pathway dates back to 1916, and it’s surprisingly big. It doesn’t look that big from the distance, but the closer you get to it the more you’re impressed by its size. 

One thing to note is that it’s possible to walk down the Breakwater and the Lower Breakwater. I recommend you stick to the regular walking path that is fenced off. The lower path features no fence, and the concrete blocks are often very slippery. 

The Breakwater walking path is accessible at any time of day or night, free of charge. 

15. Wander Around Victoria Butterfly Gardens

Situated roughly a 20-minute drive from the city center, the Victoria Butterfly Gardens is a great place to come and forget you’re in Canada for an hour. It’s an indoor tropical forest with free-flying butterflies and birdlife, not to mention all the different trees and flowers. 

You could tour the place quickly in under an hour, but I’m positive you’ll want to spend more time at the gardens once you pass through the front door. Also, I really like that all the animals here are rescues or donations, and are thriving in the lush rainforest environment. 

One thing to note is that it gets really hot in the tropical jungle, so you might need to take breaks if you stay there for a while. Make sure to bring a bottle of water to hydrate, and step outside every now and then to cool down a bit.

Victoria Butterfly Gardens has an entrance fee of $19.50 for adults. It’s open daily from 10 AM to 4 PM. 

16. Play Mini Golf in a Haunted Manor

Haunted Manor mini golf is not an activity for everyone, so feel free to leave it off your itinerary if it’s not something you’re likely to enjoy. But if you like mini golf or ping pong and you’re into haunted houses and ghost tours, it’s a very fun way of spending an evening in Victoria. 

The mansion offers an 18-hole minigolf course, pinball machines, and ping-pong tables. The on-site bar and restaurant serve a selection of (non) alcoholic drinks and classic pub food. 

Haunted Manor is open from 3 PM to 12 AM. General admission to the place is $24.95. 

17. Feel Classy At Afternoon Tea

Victoria was once a British Colony, and today it’s recognized as the most British city in Canada. So, it’s not too surprising that many popular British traditions have survived in the city. One of those is high tea, and it’s the perfect afternoon activity for travelers who want to spend an afternoon feeling fancy. 

There are quite a few different tea houses in Victoria, but I think the one at Pendray Inn is a top choice for tourists in the city. It’s in a charming Victorian mansion in James Bay, so just a short walk from the downtown. The elegant interior of the tea house is perfectly appropriate for high tea, while the food and drinks served there get only the highest markings. 

Once you’re done with the afternoon tea, take this opportunity to walk around the neighborhood a bit. The harbor is just a couple of minutes from Pendray Inn with views of the sea and huge ships. 

The Pendray tea house is open daily from 11 AM to 3/4 PM. Reservations are recommended, and the average cost per person is $60-70. A vegan option is available.  

18. Flower Fields at The Butchart Gardens

Spanning more than 22 hectares, this vast botanical garden is one of the best-known in British Columbia . With 26 greenhouses, ponds, statues, and multiple eateries, you could spend the better part of the day roaming around the Butchart Gardens . 

One thing I will say is that this is one of the priciest attractions in Victoria, BC, so you might want to leave it off your itinerary if you’re on a tighter budget. With daily tickets going as high as $40, it’s not a place everyone can comfortably enjoy. 

But you can get a much better deal on tickets if you come in the off-season, and honestly, the place is so wonderful I’d say it’s worth the money. Come here to see the endless field of colorful flowers and enjoy possibly the best-scented part of Victoria, BC. 

The Butchart Gardens are open from 9 AM to 4 PM. The adult entrance fee is $25-40, depending on the season.  

19. Landscape Views at Malahat SkyWalk

Situated northwest of Victoria, just off the Trans-Canada highway, the Malahat SkyWalk offers possibly the best landscape views in British Columbia. It’s only a 30-minute drive from Victoria BC, and well worth the trip if you’ve got access to a car. 

Malahat SkyWalk is a spiral tower on hilly ground in the middle of the forest. From the top, you can see the scenery of both the US and Canada, and it’s such a nice view that you’ll hardly want to leave. 

Malahat SkyWalk is open from 9 AM to 5 PM. Entrance to the spiral tower is charged $36.95. 

20. Be Amazed At Miniature World

Miniature World is a unique museum in Victoria, BC. It features miniature dioramas of real-life and fantasy locations and is nicknamed The Greatest Little Show on Earth. The detail in the dioramas is staggering, whether you’re looking at the replica of Toronto in 1915 or the depiction of Camelot. 

A quick tour of the place is possible in 45 minutes, but only if you rush through the place. Take your time to appreciate all the little details and really understand everything about the dioramas, and you could easily spend 2+ hours at the museum. 

Miniature World is open daily from 10 AM to 6 PM. The entrance fee is $19 for adults. 

21. Smell The Flowers at Abkhazi Garden

Victoria is well known for its many gardens and the Abkhazi Garden is one of the best close to the city center. Situated just a 15-minute bike ride from the heart of Victoria, it’s an excellent alternative for travelers who don’t want to go out of their way to see the Butchart Gardens. 

This is a much smaller garden, covering an area of “only” 1.4 hectares. It first started back in 1946, and it took a while for all the plants and trees to grow to their current size. The rhododendrons are the undisputed star of the lovely garden, followed by the tea house and ponds. Afternoon tea at the Abkhazi Garden is a great idea, but I will say that it’s in the same price range as the teahouse at Pendray Inn, but the interior decorations are not quite as nice. 

The Abkhazi Garden is open daily from 10 AM to 4 PM. The admission fee for adults is $10. 

22. Go For A Ride In A Pickle Boat 

Pickle boat tours are operated by Victoria Harbour Ferry, and they’re awesome. Discover Victoria from the sea while riding in a pickle boat, which sounds a lot cooler than it actually is. 

It’s just a small boat that can fit up to 12 passengers. While I love that it’s much more private than a classic tour boat, I was thoroughly disappointed to learn that it is not indeed shaped and painted like a pickle. 

The small boats will take you on tours of Victoria Harbor, and they often go all the way up to Burnside. It’s a great way of exploring even more of this wonderful city and seeing the areas that are not quite as convenient to reach on classic walking tours. 

Several options are available for tours of Victoria Inner Harbour, and they last from 45 to 75 minutes. The price is around $40-50. 

23. Check Out Fisherman’s Wharf

Fisherman’s Wharf is the most picturesque area of Victoria Inner Harbour. The piers are lined with floating houseboats painted in bright colors, several of which serve as restaurants or shops. Just keep in mind that people live in many of those houseboats, so respect their privacy while exploring the area.  

As you stroll down the piers, you can often spot seals swimming in the water. They love the attention they get from visitors and often engage in playful antics to entertain the onlookers. 

Fisherman’s Wharf extends beyond the piers lined with colorful boats to encompass an expansive park with picnic areas and a playground for kids. 

Fisherman’s Wharf is free and accessible at any time. Most shops and restaurants are open until 7 PM. 

24. Morning Jog Down Songhees Walkway

Songhees Walkway is a waterfront walking path that extends from Johnson Street Bridge to Sailor’s Cove Marina. It takes around 40 minutes to do the entire walk in one direction, and there are plenty of benches along the way so you can sit down for breaks. 

The walkway offers nice views of Victoria Inner Harbor with plenty of scenic viewpoints along the way. It’s also a great path for joggers in the morning, but only if you’re not easily distracted by the view. 

Songhees Walkway is accessible at any time for free. The walking path extends for about 3 kilometers in one direction. 

25. Join a Food Tour 

Locals always know where the best food in their city is, and you’ll become privy to that knowledge if you join a local food tour. These usually include trips to the city’s best landmarks and plenty of stops in popular local eateries along the way. 

The cuisine of Victoria, BC, is diverse. The classical local cuisine is heavy on seafood, but a proper Victoria food tour will include much more than what is considered traditional Canadian food . After all, it’s the city with the oldest Chinese neighborhood in Canada, and no culinary tour of Victoria is complete without a stop there.  

Food tours of Victoria, BC, usually last 2-3 hours. The starting price is $60. 

26. Admire the Aircraft at The BC Aviation Museum

The BC Aviation Museum is at Victoria Airport, so you should have at least two opportunities to visit it. It’s also a great incentive to arrive at the airport early and ensure you don’t miss your flight. 

The museum exhibit spans three hangars full of historic and modern aircraft. Helicopters, warplanes, and aircraft engines are all on display at this museum. If you’re offered a guided tour of the museum, take it. You’ll get to learn so much about the aircraft on display, and it’s a lot better than just walking around the hangar on your own. 

The BC Aviation Museum is open daily from 10 AM to 4 PM. The entrance fee is $17 for adults. 

27. Go Kayaking or Canoeing 

Kayaking and canoeing are both very popular activities in Victoria, BC, and the perfect way to explore the city beyond its busy streets. Join a guided kayaking tour or rent a canoe and take to the seas on your own—whatever your preference is, it shouldn’t be a problem. 

One thing I will say is that guided tours are the best option for people with little experience in kayaks and canoes. The currents here can be unpredictable, and if you’re not familiar with the weather conditions it could become an unpleasant or even dangerous experience. 

The beauty of these water adventures is that they’ll take you to places that would otherwise remain undiscovered. Wave between the small rocky islands and enjoy a different perspective on Victoria’s Inner Harbor. 

Several operates offer kayak and canoe tours in Victoria BC , but Kelp Reef Adventures is one of the most popular. 

28. See the Sakura Trees in Chinatown 

I’ve mentioned Fan Tan Alley as the central point of Victoria’s Chinatown, but the historic district extends way beyond it. It’s the oldest Chinese neighborhood in Canada and one of the prettiest parts of Victoria. 

A gate marks the entrance to this historic area, so it’s super easy to find. Sakura trees line the streets of Chinatown, and they’re reason enough to consider traveling to Victoria in the spring. The entire neighborhood is also decorated with traditional Chinese lanterns. 

Apart from being aesthetically pleasing, Chinatown is also known for the best Chinese food in Victoria. You’ll also find loads of shops that sell traditional Chinese souvenirs, and you might want to peruse them if you’re in the market for unique souvenirs. 

The historic Chinatown neighborhood is in the northern part of the Downtown district in Victoria BC. 

29. Whale Watching Adventures

Victoria and British Columbia, in general, are some of Canada’s best spots for whale watching. There must be a dozen tour operators in the city, but my favorite one is Prince of Whales, situated in the Destination Greater Victoria tourism center building in the harbor. 

The experienced operators will take you to the best spots to see whales, orcas, and even seal colonies. But they also know to keep their distance from the animals so they don’t disturb them in their daily routines. 

This operator offers year-round whale-watching experiences in 12-passenger Zodiac boats. With a 95% success rate of the tours, you’re practically guaranteed to spot the majestic mammals. 

Prince of Whales whale-watching tours are available year-round. They start at $150 and last 3-6 hours. 

30. Venture Out To Swan Lake

Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary is within cycling distance of downtown Victoria. It’s a great place to visit if you don’t want to go to parks that are farther outside the city center but still want to enjoy a short hiking adventure. 

The nature sanctuary features a loop walking path that even crosses the lake at one point. It takes roughly 30 minutes to complete, and it’s a well-maintained and easy walking path suitable for everyone. You don’t have to be an experienced hiker to enjoy the Swan Lake Loop, which will reward you with some beautiful views of the lake and the surrounding forest. 

Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary is open from 10?AM to 4?PM. Admission to the park is free of charge, but the entrance fee to the Nature House museum is a suggested $6 donation. 

31. Totems at Thunderbird Park 

Thunderbird Park is a small public park in central Victoria. Situated right next to the Royal BC Museum, the park is best known for its totem pole replicas and historic houses. 

The totems aren’t quite as spectacular as the ones in Vancouver, but they are still quite a lovely sight. Mungo Martin House is known for its painted exterior, while the Helmcken House Pioneer Doctor’s Residence offers short tours of a surgeon’s house with period furniture. 

Thunderbird Park is free and accessible at any time. 

32. Ziplining in The Forest 

Thrill seekers won’t be let down by the selection of activities in Victoria. Just a 30-minute drive from the Downtown you’ll find Adrenaline Zip – a local company that operates ziplining tours in the rainforest. 

One thing to note is that this is along the way if you embark on the Galloping Goose Trail. The zipline rides are exciting and very fun. The entire adventure takes about two hours, and it includes 8 zipline rides, a suspension bridge, and an ATV ride. 

The ziplining tour starts at $120. For an extra $30, they’ll throw in a shuttle service to Victoria.

33. Ride The Hop On Hop Off Bus

I’m not the biggest fan of Hop-On Hop-Off buses, but I have to admit they’re a great option for travelers who are in town for a very short time. If you’re in Victoria for only a day or two, riding the double-decker bus is great for seeing all the city’s top landmarks in that time. 

The beauty of these buses is that you can get out at any stop, explore the area, and then just get on the bus again. You can even stay seated on the bus the entire time and just sightsee from the comfort of your seat, while the tour guide tells you the story behind the different attractions. 

Buy Hop-On Hop-Off bus tickets for $55 (valid for 24 hours) or $88 (valid for 48 hours).

34. Craft Beer Crawl

With more than 20 craft breweries throughout Victoria, the city is truly a great spot for beer lovers. Loads of pubs in the city serve local craft beer, and you can even tour breweries to try the drink right at the source. 

The Craft Beer Market in Victoria Harbor is one of the best pubs in the city. It offers a wide selection of local and international craft beer. They even offer tasting menus, so you can try half a dozen glasses. 

The Whistle Buoy Brewing Company in the Downtown is my top choice for a local brewery tour. 

Pubs in Victoria, BC, are usually open until 9-11 PM and a bit longer on the weekends. 

FAQ For Best Things To Do In Victoria BC

Is victoria, bc, worth visiting.

Yes, Victoria BC is worth visiting. It’s a gorgeous city with stunning Victorian architecture, a picturesque harbor, and a walkable downtown area. 

What is Victoria BC well known for?

Victoria BC is known for many botanical gardens and gorgeous Victorian mansions. The city is also nicknamed the cycling capital of Canada, thanks to countless kilometers of cycling and mountain biking trails. 

What is the #1 tourist attraction in British Columbia?

The Stanley Park Totem Pole is by far the most popular tourist attraction in British Columbia. The Butchart Gardens is the most famous tourist attraction in Greater Victoria. 

Is Victoria BC a walkable city?

Much of Victoria BC is walkable and pedestrian-friendly. However, there are many interesting places outside the downtown that are worth visiting but not accessible on foot. 

Tips And Information For Visiting Victoria BC

Best Time To Visit 

The best time to visit Victoria depends on what your priorities are. If you want to be in the city when it’s warm and sunny, then you should plan a trip in the summer. But expect higher prices of hotels and large crowds of tourists. 

If, on the other hand, you don’t mind walking around in a jacket if it means fewer tourists and better hotel deals, travel to Victoria in April-May or September-October. Just keep in mind that the city gets quite a bit of rainfall in the spring and autumn, so it’s not the ideal period for outdoor activities. 

What about the winter season? Victoria is spectacular in the winter and the temperatures rarely drop below 0 Celsius. It is especially nice there during the Christmas festivities.

Getting There

Victoria International Airport is the closest airport to the city, but it has a direct connection to very few international destinations. The airport in Vancouver, on the other hand, is the second-busiest in the country and chances are it will be your first stop in Canada. 

From there you’ve got loads of options. Local flights, seaplanes, and ferries all make it possible to travel from Vancouver to Victoria . You can even take a bus from the airport to the city, which takes about four hours to reach the destination, with a ferry crossing. 

Getting Around 

Downtown Victoria is a very walkable area and you can visit most attractions in the historic part of the city on foot. Cycling is a great way of getting around the city because you can get to the more remote parts of Greater Victoria in about an hour, plus you won’t have to deal with rush hour traffic as much. 

Bike rentals are available throughout the city and are great for travelers visiting Victoria. Because the city doesn’t have a metro system, buses are the only viable mode of public transport. They’re convenient for traveling around the city but are generally quite slow. 

Uber and taxis are another option for reaching the more remote areas, but they’re also the most expensive way of getting around Victoria. As for car rental, I think it makes sense only if you’re in town for a longer time. Otherwise, it’s really not worth it because most of the best attractions in the city are within walking distance of one another. 

How Much Time Do You Need

Victoria is a pretty big city and I reckon you need at least three days to explore all of the best attractions downtown and a few famous sights in Greater Victoria. I think it’s possible to cover the best landmarks in Victoria in about two days, but you will be in a bit of a rush the entire time. 

Travelers who love being outdoors and exploring nature will have a great time in Victoria. If you can swing five days here, you can have enough time to explore a good chunk of Vancouver Island, much of which is untouched nature. 

Where To Stay In Victoria BC

Stay in Downtown Victoria or the historic James Bay neighborhood for easy walking access to all the best landmarks and attractions in the city. Both areas offer a wide variety of hotels in every price range, as well as loads of interesting tourist attractions. Some of the best hotels in Victoria for all budgets are: 

• Ocean Island Inn offers budget accommodation with a fantastic location in Downtown Victoria. 
• Fairmont Empress is one of the best hotels in central Victoria, with lovely views of Victoria Inner Harbor. 
• The Oak Bay Beach Hotel is a five-star hotel with an oceanfront location. It has a fantastic spa center and large rooms, but it is quite far from the city center. Consider staying at the Oak Bay Beach Hotel if you’re planning a relaxing vacation in Victoria, BC. 

Our BC Resources

• 30 Awesome Things to Do in Whistler, BC
• The Best Things to Do in Revelstoke, BC – Besides Skiing
• 14 Amazing Things to Do in Squamish BC
• Where to Stay in Vancouver – Best Areas to Stay
• 36 Best Things to Do in Vancouver, Canada
• 21 Best Day Trips from Vancouver, British Columbia

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Book Your Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner. We have used them for years and have found that they have the best flight deals.

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor.

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Safety Wing - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Book Your Activities: Looking for walking tours, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more? Then we recommend Get Your Guide.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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About Sara Oprasic

Sara loves writing about travel as much as she loves traveling. In her spare time, she enjoys reading, spending time with her cats, and crossing items off her bucket list. She’s yet to cross off Japan, Tromsø, and Hogsmeade. You can see what she’s up to on her Instagram Page

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As a tourist, you can explore a range of things to see and do, eat and drink, and experience the regional beauty of Victoria. If you’re looking to plan your trip to or around Victoria, Visit Victoria has everything you need.

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A weekend in Victoria, British Columbia: 2-day Victoria itinerary

Posted on Last updated: October 19, 2022

How to spend a weekend in Victoria, British Columbia: Discover the best things to see, do, eat and drink in Victoria in a two-day itinerary featuring whale-watching, parks, museums and cycle tours.

* This site contains affiliate links , where I get a small commission from purchases at no extra cost to you.

AD: My trip was hosted by Explore Canada , but all views are my own.

Vancouver Island’s biggest city and the capital of British Columbia, Victoria is a relaxed, vibrant city on the edge of an island packed with spectacular scenery. It’s known for being one of Canada’s most English cities, and you can find manicured parks and afternoon teas.

But Victoria has a bit of everything – history and culture, bikes and boats, food and drink. Add in a temperate climate with plenty of sunshine, and a compact and walkable city centre and you’ve got an ideal city break. So here’s my two-day Victoria itinerary to help you plan the perfect weekend in Victoria, with what to see, where to eat, drink and stay.

How to spend a weekend in Victoria, BC

Friday evening

Once you’ve checked in to your hotel, start your weekend in Victoria at the heart of the city – its harbour. The water is alive with boats, with everything from cruise ships and luxury yachts to water taxis and dinghies. Take a walk along the waterfront to Fisherman’s Wharf, past the ferry terminal and around the headland by flower-filled Laurel Point Park.

Fisherman’s Wharf is around 15 minutes away. This waterfront district was built after the Second World War to house commercial fishing vessels. Today it’s home to a mix of colourful floating homes, food stalls, fishing boats – and the occasional seal.

From Fisherman’s Wharf, catch one of the Victoria Harbour Ferries back to the inner harbour. These dinky green and white ferries look like toy boats but will whisk you back to the harbour in 10 minutes, with on-board commentary from your captain.

Once you get to the inner harbour, follow the path in the opposite direction, past the craft and food stalls, buskers and street performers who gather in the evenings. Walk past the seaplane terminal and rows of yachts to Craft Victoria Harbour . This waterfront brew pub has 110 draft beers on tap, and a big waterside patio with harbour views.

Have dinner at at Little Jumbo restaurant, which is tucked away off Fort Street (look out for the neon elephant sign). It’s a cosy place which serves inventive cocktails – the name is a homage to two pioneering 19th-century bartenders. The small but perfectly formed menu uses local produce to create dishes like braised lamb shank and wild sablefish.

Then if you wander back to your hotel along the inner harbour after dark, you’ll see the Legislative Assembly of British Columbia building sparkling with the light of over 3300 bulbs, which looks extra beautiful when it’s reflected in the harbour waters.

Saturday morning

The following morning, explore Victoria on a bike tour with The Pedaler. They run a range of themed bike tours around the city to introduce visitors to their favourite local haunts, which are a good way to discover different neighbourhoods. Their Castles, ‘Hoods & Legends * tour takes in Victoria’s highlights over two hours and 6.8 miles/11km.

Along the route is Beacon Hill Park – 200 acres of gardens, ponds and trails along with a petting zoo and water park. It was made a protected area in 1858 by Sir James Douglas, governor of Vancouver Island, and is a favourite spot for Victorians to escape to.

It’s also home to a 39-metre-high totem pole which was the tallest in the world when it was erected in 1956 (it’s since been demoted to number four but is still an impressive sight). The Story Pole was carved from a single cedar tree. Their lifespan is usually no more than 50 years but it’s been restored and repainted and is still standing proud.

You visit Victoria’s Chinatown, where a gate guarded by stone lions welcomes you into Canada’s oldest Chinatown. There’s also Craigdarroch Castle, a Scottish-inspired Victorian castle built for a rich coal baron and restored to its 1890s glory. And the cool neighbourhoods of Cook Street and Fernwood with their boutique and vintage shops.

After the exercise, it’s time to eat. Nourish Kitchen and Café is just a short walk from The Pedaler’s shop. This historic 1888 building has been turned into a community hub, with a café serving nourishing, seasonal wholefoods. They have lots of tasty, healthy options, like oatmeal pancakes, tartines and salads, all of which are beautifully presented.

Saturday afternoon

After getting a taster of Victoria’s history on the cycle tour, head back to the harbour to find out more. You can take a tour of British Columbia’s Legislative Assembly – the province’s parliament – which opened in February 1898 after five years of construction.

Tours of this ornate waterfront building are free, with a mix of 45-minute public tours with a guide (check their website for times which vary through the year) and self-guided tours, covering the province’s history and how Canada’s political system works.

Then head next door to the Royal BC Museum . It’s a fascinating place that splits the story of British Columbia into three strands – the natural history of the landscape and wildlife, the First Nations’ history of Canada’s indigenous peoples, and the province’s modern history. Don’t miss the Totem Hall, with its intricately carved totem poles and masks.

Later, take a walk along the harbourside to Finn’s Seafood Chops and Cocktails for dinner, in a red-brick former warehouse built for Roderick Finlayson, a businessman and politician known as the ‘father of Victoria’. Get an early booking or have a drink there before dinner so you can take advantage of the views over the harbour at sunset.

There’s lots of local seafood on the menu, including mussels, clams and Dungeness crab, as well as lobster from Nova Scotia and dishes like pizzas, burgers and salad bowls.

Sunday morning

Start the day with a leisurely breakfast at John’s Place . It’s the oldest diner in Victoria and opened in 1984. On the menu are classic North American breakfast dishes like pancakes and Eggs Benedict, with a Canadian twist from maple-smoked bacon. And some more unusual options like southwestern-style meatloaf with eggs or Polish frittata.

Walk off all that food with a wander around the Victoria Public Market in the historic Hudson building, which opens at 11am. There are stalls selling locally-produced cheese, bread, pies, meats and groceries, as well as handmade arts and crafts.

Then go to the harbour for a lunchtime whale-watching trip with Prince of Whales. Vancouver Island is one of the best places to spot these magnificent creatures, especially when the salmon are migrating. Orcas, humpback and minke whales all live in the coastal waters as well as other wildlife like seals, sea lions and porpoises.

Tours take around three-four hours and you can choose between a larger catamaran * (available March–November) or a more adrenaline-fuelled – and wetter – trip on board a smaller zodiac boat * (available year-round). Both have a naturalist on board to look out for whales and tell you about the wildlife living in the waters around Victoria.

The company is carbon neutral and has a focus on sustainability and marine conservation. And if you’re not lucky enough to see any whales on your trip, they’ll let you take another tour for free – even if you don’t go back to Victoria until years later.

Sunday afternoon

Then finish your weekend in Victoria with afternoon tea at a city institution – the Fairmont Empress . This luxury hotel was built in 1908 for Canadian Pacific’s steamship passengers and became the city’s most famous building. Shockingly it was almost torn down in the 1960s, but was saved and brought back to its former glory to welcome guests again.

They serve a traditional English-style afternoon tea in their grand Lobby Lounge, with a classical pianist to accompany it. On the menu are dainty sandwiches, scones, cakes and macarons. And they cater for a variety of dietary restrictions, including vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free and diabetic diets – though you do need to book in advance.

It comes with a selection of teas, including their own Empress Tea which blends flavours from around the world. Or if you prefer something with more kick, add a glass of Champagne or an Empress 1908 cocktail, made with tea-infused vodka.

Map of things to do in Victoria, BC

The details

When to visit victoria.

Victoria has some of the mildest weather in Canada, and is sunnier and drier than nearby Vancouver. Summer is peak season on Vancouver Island . Victoria sees average high temperatures around 20ºC (68ºF) in July and August. It’s a great time to get outdoors, the city’s gardens are in full bloom and there are lots of summer events taking place.

But summer is the busiest and most expensive time for a weekend in Victoria, so book accommodation well in advance. Spring and autumn (fall) are pleasant with average highs of 12–16ºC (54–61ºF). Winters in Victoria are mild with daytime high temperatures around 7ºC (45ºF) and nighttime lows normally staying above freezing. And there are lots of festive events at Christmas in Victoria , from tree festivals to illuminated buildings.

Spring and summer are fairly dry, but rainfall starts to rise in late autumn. November and December are the rainiest months, so pack an umbrella and waterproof. And for the best opportunity to see whales, time your visit between April and October.

How to get to Victoria

Victoria is located at the southern tip of Vancouver Island, British Columbia, and you can get there by air or sea. Victoria has an international airport 15 miles/24km north of the city. It’s connected by bus (1.5 hours), shuttle or taxi (25 minutes, approx $60 CAD).

Or if you’re travelling from Vancouver and fancy something more adventurous, you can take a Harbour Air floatplane .* The journey takes around 40 minutes with great views of the city, coast and Gulf Islands. And flights depart from Vancouver harbour and arrive into the inner harbour in central Victoria so it’s very convenient.

BC Ferries also carry both car and foot passengers from Vancouver to Vancouver Island. It’s not a direct route though, with ferries leaving from Tsawwassen, 22 miles/35km south of Vancouver, and arriving into Swartz Bay, 20 miles/32km north of Victoria.

Reservations are recommended, particularly if you’re travelling with a car. Foot passengers can book the BC Ferries Connector coach to take you from Vancouver airport/downtown to Tsawwassen and Swartz Bay to Victoria. Otherwise you can do it independently via public transport using a combination of buses and trains, but it’s slower and more fiddly.

You can also travel to Victoria by ferry from Washington State across the border in the USA, with services from Port Angeles, Anacortes and Seattle.

Where to stay in Victoria

The Hotel Grand Pacific * is set in a 10-storey building overlooking the inner harbour. Their spacious rooms have balconies looking out towards the Olympic Mountains in one direction or the harbour in the other, and there’s a pool, gym, hot tub and restaurants.

From its 250,000-crystal chandelier to its in-house gin, the five-star Fairmont Empress * is overflowing with glamour, but a recent revamp means facilities are right up to date. This huge 464-room hotel has a pool, spa, fitness centre, shops, bars and restaurants. And if you’re blowing the budget, stay on the Gold Floor for cocktails, canapés and terrace views.

Or the Oswego Hotel * is a good-value, modern boutique hotel located in a quiet area which has a mix of studio, one- and two-bed apartments with kitchenettes and dining areas – and some of the larger ones also have balconies looking out over the harbour.

Looking for somewhere to stay in Victoria?*

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Tuesday 10th of October 2023

Great suggestions ! We did a LOT of them this weekend and had beautiful weather to enjoy this amazing city !!

Lucy Dodsworth

That's great to hear!

Tuesday 25th of February 2020

Great article showcasing the wonderful things to do in Victoria. 10 years ago my wife and I visited the City fell in love with it and moved the next year. All the common tourist attractions you mentioned in the downtown core are great. If you have more time, a few suggestions I would add would be to go to the Wiffenspit in Sooke, or out to Sandcut beach. Market square is also another great little destination downtown. I could list many more because truth be told 48hrs is nowhere near enough time in Victoria.

Thank you – yes a weekend is only time for a taster, there's a lot of great things to do in the city, thanks for the suggestions for a few more to try out on my next trip too!

Thursday 6th of February 2020

Fantastic way to spend 48 hours here Lucy! If you come back again, save my contact info and I'd be happy to take you and your group on an amazing hike if that's your thing. Completely on the house and we'll see some amazing places.

Monday 10th of February 2020

Thanks so much – I'll keep in touch!

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Melbourne, Victoria

Guide to Melbourne

Aboriginal name:  Narrm (pronounced Narr-m)

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• Getting to Melbourne
• When to visit
• Accessibility

Melbourne is Australia's mecca for all things trendy and tasty. The city offers up exquisite dining, exhilarating sport and abundant opportunities to experience art.

A perfect blend of rich cultural history and new age trends is waiting for you in Melbourne. As the sun goes down, the city comes to life with a vibrant dining scene as well as events and exhibitions. Explore its bustling laneways, trendy neighbourhoods and sophisticated foodie scene to get a taste of what Melbourne is all about.

Melbourne stands on the ancient grounds of the Kulin Nation of the Wurundjeri people. For the Kulin Nation, Melbourne has always been an important meeting place for events of social, educational, sporting and cultural significance. Experience the culture through a range of heritage walks, cultural tours and galleries.

• Traditional name of Central Melbourne: Narrm (pronounced Narr-m)
• Indigenous Peoples of Central Melbourne: Wurundjeri people
• Traditional lands of Greater Melbourne: Kulin Nation
• Traditional languages: There are four traditional languages in Narrm. Bunurong (Bun-wurrung), Taungurung (Tung-ger-rung), Wathaurong (Wadha-wurrung) and Dja Dja Wurrung (Jar-Jar-Wur-rung).
• How to say g’day in Wathaurong: Wominjeka

Getting to Melbourne is easy with flights arriving direct to two airports. 

• Melbourne Airport at Tullamarine (MEL) is 22km (14mi) from the city and services international and domestic arrivals
• Avalon Airport (AVV) is 55km (34mi) from the city and services international and domestic flights 
• Hire cars, taxis, rideshares and a shuttle service are available from both airports

Getting around  is just as easy as finding a great cup of coffee in Melbourne. The city offers clean, reliable and affordable public transport services. There is even a free City Circle tram line with historical commentary.

Despite having four distinct seasons,  Melbourne's weather  is known for being a bit unpredictable. Summers are generally warm and winters cold, but just ask a local and they’ll tell you that it’s not uncommon to experience all four seasons in a single day. So whenever you decide to visit, be sure to pack layers and carry an umbrella in your day bag. 

• High season: Spring and summer (November to February)
• Low season: Winter (June to August)
• Don’t miss: Melbourne’s world-class festivals and events

Melbourne is a dynamic city with plenty of accessible options for accommodation, attractions , restaurants , cafés and shopping . 

• Arrival: Disability assistance is available at Melbourne Airport, including for those with hidden disabilities .
• Getting around: Most Melbourne buses and trains have accessible options – check the Public Transport Victoria website  for information on using public transport.
• Accessible experience highlights: Several cultural institutions cater to travellers with accessibility and sensory needs, including the National Gallery of Victoria and Scienceworks .
• Helpful resources: Travellers Aid Australia provides mobility equipment hire and recharge points, while the City of Melbourne’s mobility map makes it easy to locate accessible facilities.

15 places to Come and Say G'day in 2024

Melbourne made the list. where else will 2024 take you, must-visit restaurants in melbourne.

Melbourne's best restaurants

Top coffee shops

Cheap eats in Melbourne

Best rooftop bars

Breakfast and brunch spots

Coolest gin bars

Trip essentials.

Where to stay

Weather in Melbourne

Suburb guide

Getting Around

Destinations near Melbourne

The Great Ocean Road

The Yarra Valley & Dandenong Ranges

Daylesford & the Macedon Ranges

Melbourne Cricket Ground

High Country & King Valley

12 Apostles

Geelong & the Bellarine Peninsula

Trips and itineraries.

3 days in Melbourne

6 days on the Great Southern Touring Route

Australia's South in 14 days

10-day road trip through regional Victoria

Melbourne to Adelaide: A 5-day road trip

5-day Melbourne to Mornington Peninsula family road trip 

14 days of fine dining, wilderness and luxury

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Breaking news, save 60% on bras and panties during victoria’s secret semi-annual sale.

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It’s not a secret anymore.

Victoria’s Secret has just launched its adored Semi-Annual Sale — the twice-a-year bargain event that has shoppers hurdling through the doors and digging through bins of panties like there’s no tomorrow.

Starting today and running through June 16, shoppers can score major markdowns including panties from $5.99, bras for $14.99, and 60% off other best-selling apparel including lavish lingerie, dreamy sleepwear, and swimwear perfect for summer.

READ MORE: Shop the 35 best lingerie brands to spice things up

If you’re not one to fight over underwear with Black Friday-like fervor, we suggest skipping the lines altogether and ordering all your favorite Victoria’s Secret selections online . There’s no shortage of gorgeous silhouettes to choose from — whether you’re looking to slip into something sexy from the Victoria’s Secret and For Love and Lemons collection , or you’re ready to pick out a few sports bras and leggings from Pink’s sea of comfort-first activewear .

There’s truly something for everyone at Victoria’s Secret. But, if you have eyes on anything in particular, we suggest placing your orders promptly. Best-selling sales pieces are known to run out of stock quickly.

Read on to shop a few of our favorite on-trend picks, or head right to the site to shop all the best Semi-Annual Sale deals.

Dream Angels Thong Panty

This lacy low-rise thong provides plenty of breathing room, adorned with intricate mixed mesh detailing and floral-like patterns. Shop the ice blue shade, or pick from a variety of other stunning styles.

Icon by Victoria’s Secret Push-Up Demi Bra

Looking for a tried-and-tested push-up bra that actually provides adequate support and coverage? You could literally do push-ups in this one (I may have tested this out myself.) The flexible, custom light lift padding provides a little push without dinking out on comfort and quality.

The T-Shirt Lightly Lined Wireless Bra

Kiss the wires goodbye. This smoothing T-shirt bra slips easily beneath the shirt of your choice, leaving no evidence, lines, wrinkles, or crinkles. The best-selling wireless bra has recently been updated with even more soft foam padding and skin-friendly microfiber.

Tease High-Leg Scoop Thong Panty

This flattering, femme panty adds some dimension with two-town sewn-in lace lining. Specific styles are even available for as low as $3. Not to mention, a high-cut leg adds some length (hello petites! ).

Very Sexy So Obsessed Smooth Push-Up Bra

She got us. We’re indeed obsessed with this So Obsessed Push-up bra. The glamorous, glossy finish provides that signature Victoria’s Secret bombshell effect, plus layers of memory foam padding magnify all your curves. Yes, it does feel as good as it looks.

Very Sexy Bow Mesh Open-Cup Crotchless Playsuit

Gift yourself or your partner a major jaw-drop with this braless, crotchless number. Wrapped up with a bow and slinky ribbon, this strappy-dotted mesh set showcases all your curves with refined delicacy. Don’t pass on this present.

Love Cloud Wireless Strapless Bra

Summer is the time to go strapless . The Love Cloud is a wonderful option if you’re looking for a wireless option that still holds you in, without leaving you short of breath and suffocated. The ultra-stretchy design comes with optional, convertible straps that can be styled in five different ways to fit beneath any outfit.

Floral Embroidery Sheer Mesh Slip

It’s a garden fairy summer. This mesh slip has all the right details; the rose embroidery has a hand-drawn look and comes with a matching satin thong panty.

Dream Angels Wicked Unlined Smooth & Lace Balconette Bra

Need a push-up without extra padding? This unlined, festive shimmer bra is constructed with stretchy lace wings we all desire for added comfort. Reviewers love the combination of textured and smooth fabrics and say it quickly becomes an everyday wardrobe staple.

Pink Seamless Medium-Impact Sports Bra

Jump into action with Pink’s seamless sports bra. This signature piece is blended with beautiful, breathable fabric to keep you refreshed for any level of activity — whether you’re lounging on the couch, putting in some miles on the Peleton, or spinning through a Yoga flow.

Undress Code Remember Me Thong Bodysuit

This might just be the bodysuit of your dreams — underwire, hook-and-eye back closure, and adjustable straps. The daring cutouts and sheer paneling will quickly elevate any look — whether you’re tucking it into a pair of jeans, layering it beneath a sweater, or wearing it solo.

Victoria’s Secret Satin Short Pajama Set

Don’t miss out on your chance to snatch up a Victoria’s Secret classic glossy pink embroidered pajama set at just half the price. The short-sleeve, button-front top hits right below the hips, and a drawstring tie waist provides a custom fit.

5-Pack Lace-Waist Cotton Thong Panties

Consider saving on a practical set of panties for any occasion. These cotton thongs boast a stretch lace waistband and low-rise ideal for everyday wear. Stock up on them while the deal lasts.

For Love and Lemons Brie Bustier

For a more elevated look, consider a piece from the For Love and Lemons for Victoria’s Secret collection. This exclusive collaboration blends dreamy, feminine confidence with thoughtful, wearable details. The brie Bustier is equal parts sexy and sweet, with heart-embroidery and scalloped cups sure to grab attention.

Hunting for a headline-worthy haul?  Keep shopping with Post Wanted .

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Hong kong tourism board.

The 2024 Hong Kong International Dragon Boat Races return to the Victoria Harbour, bringing you legendary dragon boat races off the Tsim Sha Tsui East Promenade on 15–16 June. Come join thousands of the world’s top dragon boat athletes at the exhilarating races, LINE FRIENDS Hong Kong Summer Chill Photo Spots , as well as the Summer Chill Food Lane . Your weekend in Hong Kong will surely be an unforgettable one!

Hong Kong International Dragon Boat Races

The two-day event will fill the Victoria Harbour with adrenaline-pumping races, vibrant colours, resounding drum beats and cheering fans. The paddlers will be giving it their all as they race to the beat of the drum to the finish line off Tsim Sha Tsui East Promenade. And with the celebratory atmosphere of the 75 th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China, this is an event you can’t afford to miss!

8am – 7pm (Saturday) 8am – 6pm (Sunday)

*The schedule is subject to change without prior notice.

Off Tsim Sha Tsui East Promenade

• The area stretches from the Tsim Sha Tsui East Promenade, situated outside the Kowloon Shangri-La, Hong Kong, to the Bruce Lee Statue located on the Avenue of Stars.
• Seating with shade will be provided.
• MTR East Tsim Sha Tsui Station, take Exit J and walk five minutes.
• MTR East Tsim Sha Tsui Station, take Exit P1 and walk eight minutes.

For more information, please visit the Hong Kong China Dragon Boat Association’s website .

Secretariat of 2024 Hong Kong International Dragon Boat Races Hotline: +852 5660 8146/+852 3110 0079 (9am to 6pm, Monday to Friday, excluding public holidays) Email: [email protected]

LINE FRIENDS Hong Kong Summer Chill Photo Spots

LINE FRIENDS are coming back to Hong Kong this summer! A year after their last visit, BROWN, CONY, SALLY and CHOCO are returning with even more friends to explore different landmarks around the city. They are also donning dragon boat outfits to celebrate the Dragon Boat Festival. Get ready to take selfies with the Instagrammable LINE FRIENDS displays in front of Victoria Harbour, and don’t forget to visit the LINE FRIENDS POP-UP STORE to grab the Hong Kong limited-edition merchandise! 

Avenue of Stars, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon

LINE FRIENDS MEET & GREET

LINE FRIENDS BROWN and CONY are coming to the Hong Kong International Dragon Boat Races in Tsim Sha Tsui to hang out with everyone! Don’t miss your chance to meet and interact with these beloved characters.

Session 1: 1:30-2pm Session 2: 3-3:30pm Session 3: 4:30-5pm Session 4: 6-6:30pm

• Queuing will open 30 minutes before each session. Spots are limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis.
• Groups are limited to a maximum of four people, with four photos allowed per group.
• Participants should follow the instructions provided by the event staff.

Remarks: The schedule and arrangements may be subject to change depending on event conditions. The organiser reserves the right to amend the guidelines or even cancel the event as needed without prior notice. If any issues arise, the organiser’s decision is final.

Summer Chill Food Lane

Celebrating the arrival of summer times, a delightful array of food and beverages stalls offering local specialty drinks and sweets will line the Avenue of Stars. Come join us to enjoy chilled craft beer, Hong Kong-style milk tea, cold brew coffee, coconut desserts, doughnuts and more, all while cheering for the athletes in the exciting dragon boat races.

12–9pm, daily

Remark: On 8 June, Summer Chill Food Lane will be open to the public from 2pm onwards. From 12pm to 2pm, there will be a special media preview. We apologise for any inconvenience caused.

Acknowledgement

Explore more

Dragon Boat Festival in Hong Kong: origin, traditions and festivities

From eating rice dumplings to watching dragon boat races, read our complete guide to celebrating Dragon Boat Festival in Hong Kong.

Your guide to zongzi , the Dragon Boat Festival dumpling

Eating zongzi is one of the most important Dragon Boat Festival traditions in Hong Kong. What exactly are these sticky rice dumplings wrapped in bamboo leaves? How many types are there, and where can you enjoy them in Hong Kong? Find out all about these tasty delights in our guide to zongzi .

Must-do activities to enjoy the Dragon Boat Festival in Hong Kong

Celebrate the annual Dragon Boat Festival with a diverse range of activities. Experience the thrill of international dragon boat races alongside traditional rituals and modern festivities.

Explore traditions and festivities of the Dragon Boat Festival

Images from 1 May pyrotechnics display

15 June Pyrotechnics display

Don’t miss the themed dazzling pyrotechnics display to celebrate the Hong Kong International Dragon Boat Races.

Image reference only

10 June Drone show

Spectators were mesmerised by the dance of illuminated drones across Victoria Harbour, commemorating the Dragon Boat Festival.

Drone show has ended

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The state of tourism and hospitality 2024

Tourism and hospitality are on a journey of disruption. Shifting source markets and destinations, growing demand for experiential and luxury travel, and innovative business strategies are all combining to dramatically alter the industry landscape. Given this momentous change, it’s important for stakeholders to consider and strategize on four major themes:

• The bulk of travel is close to home. Although international travel might draw headlines, stakeholders shouldn’t neglect the big opportunities in their backyards. Domestic travel still represents the bulk of travel spending, and intraregional tourism is on the rise.
• Consumers increasingly prioritize travel—when it’s on their own terms. Interest in travel is booming, but travelers are no longer content with a one-size-fits-all experience. Individual personalization might not always be practical, but savvy industry players can use segmentation and hypothesis-driven testing to improve their value propositions. Those that fail to articulate target customer segments and adapt their offerings accordingly risk getting left behind.
• The face of luxury travel is changing. Demand for luxury tourism and hospitality is expected to grow faster than any other travel segment today—particularly in Asia. It’s crucial to understand that luxury travelers don’t make up a monolith. Segmenting by age, nationality, and net worth can reveal varied and evolving preferences and behaviors.
• As tourism grows, destinations will need to prepare to mitigate overcrowding. Destinations need to be ready to handle the large tourist flows of tomorrow. Now is the time for stakeholders to plan, develop, and invest in mitigation strategies. Equipped with accurate assessments of carrying capacities and enhanced abilities to gather and analyze data, destinations can improve their transportation and infrastructure, build tourism-ready workforces, and preserve their natural and cultural heritages.

Now boarding: Faces, places, and trends shaping tourism in 2024

Global travel is back and buzzing. The amount of travel fell by 75 percent in 2020; however, travel is on its way to a full recovery by the end of 2024. More regional trips, an emerging population of new travelers, and a fresh set of destinations are powering steady spending in tourism.

There’s no doubt that people still love to travel and will continue to seek new experiences in new places. But where will travelers come from, and where will they go?

We share a snapshot of current traveler flows, along with estimates for growth through 2030.

The way we travel now

Which trends are shaping traveler sentiment now? What sorts of journeys do today’s travelers dream about? How much are they willing to spend on their trips? And what should industry stakeholders do to adapt to the traveler psychology of the moment?

To gauge what’s on the minds of present-day travelers, we surveyed more than 5,000 of them. The findings reveal disparate desires, generational divides, and a newly emerging set of traveler archetypes.

Updating perceptions about today’s luxury traveler

Demand for luxury tourism and hospitality is expected to grow faster than for any other segment. This growth is being powered in part by a large and expanding base of aspiring luxury travelers with net worths between $100,000 and $1 million, many of whom are younger and increasingly willing to spend larger shares of their wealth on upscale travel options. The increase is also a result of rising wealth levels in Asia.

We dug deeper into this ongoing evolution by surveying luxury travelers around the globe about their preferences, plans, and expectations. Some widely held notions about luxury travelers—such as how much money they have, how old they are, and where they come from—could be due for reexamination.

Destination readiness: Preparing for the tourist flows of tomorrow

As global tourism grows, it will be crucial for destinations to be ready. How can the tourism ecosystem prepare to host unprecedented volumes of visitors while managing the challenges that can accompany this success? A large flow of tourists, if not carefully channeled, can encumber infrastructure, harm natural and cultural attractions, and frustrate locals and visitors alike.

Now is the time for tourism stakeholders to combine their thinking and resources to look for better ways to handle the visitor flows of today while properly preparing themselves for the visitor flows of tomorrow. We offer a diagnostic that destinations can use to spot early-warning signs about tourism concentration, along with suggestions for funding mechanisms and strategies to help maximize the benefits of tourism while minimizing its negative impacts.

Six trends shaping new business models in tourism and hospitality

As destinations and source markets have transformed over the past decade, tourism and hospitality companies have evolved, too. Accommodation, home sharing, cruises, and theme parks are among the sectors in which new approaches could present new opportunities. Stakeholders gearing up for new challenges should look for business model innovations that will help sustain their hard-won growth—and profits.

Unbundling offerings, cross-selling distinctive experiences, and embracing data-powered strategies can all be winning moves. A series of insight-driven charts reveal significant trends and an outlook on the future.

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Cunard reveals 2025 Event Voyages

June 11, 2024

Cunard has unveiled its program of 2025 Event Voyages, taking place across Queen Mary  2,  Queen Elizabeth , and  Queen Victoria .

Event Voyages feature experts from the worlds of arts, gastronomy, wine and entertainment, with performances, Q&As, and hands-on workshops on offer.

Queen Elizabeth will be sailing from Sydney to Tasmania for her Great Australian Culinary Voyage in February 2025

The luxury cruise line will offer seven itineraries, ranging from five to 11 nights, beginning in  February 2025 . These comprise:

Great Australian Culinary Voyage,  Queen Elizabeth

Features some of  Australia’s  most successful chefs, producers and food critics, as well as a special three-course dinner for the  Britannia  and Grills Restaurants and bespoke culinary shore experience in Hobart. Departing  February 6, 2025 . Prices start from  $1333  per person based on two sharing a Britannia Balcony stateroom.

Film Festival at Sea,  Queen Mary  2

A seven-night cruise, in partnership with the British Film Institute, includes a curated schedule of activities and events such as screenings, conversations with industry icons, quizzes, and Q&A sessions. Departing  March 8, 2025 . Prices start from  $1193  per person based on two sharing a Britannia Balcony stateroom.

185th Cunard Anniversary Sailing,  Queen Mary  2

A seven-night itinerary that will celebrate Cunard’s history with insights from maritime historians and a commemorative dinner. Departing  June 24, 2025 . Prices start from  $1651  per person based on two sharing a Britannia Balcony stateroom.

Dance the Atlantic,  Queen Mary  2

A seven-night transatlantic cruise celebrating the world of dance. Six leading dancers from the English National Ballet will join guests on board, with performances from classic and contemporary ballets in the Royal Court Theatre. Departing  August 8, 2025 . Prices from  $1854  per person based on two sharing a Britannia Balcony stateroom.

Anthony Inglis  and the National Symphony Orchestra,  Queen Mary  2

Guests on this seven-night cruise will be immersed in the world of classical music, brought on board by  Anthony Inglis , conducting the UK’s National Symphony Orchestra. Departing  September 3, 2025 . Prices start from  $1397  per person based on two sharing a Britannia Balcony stateroom.

Voyage du Vin,  Queen Victoria

An 11-night voyage, in partnership with Corney & Barrow, one of the UK’s oldest independent wine merchants, which will feature talks, tastings and events with leading connoisseurs and industry experts. Departing  October 13, 2025 . Prices start from  $1142  per person based on two sharing a Britannia Balcony stateroom.

Literature Festival at Sea,  Queen Mary  2

This seven-night itinerary will include a program of events curated by The Times and The Sunday Times, and the Cheltenham Literature Festival, with special guests such as journalist and broadcaster  Sophie Raworth , and writer and broadcaster  Richard Coles . Departing  December 8, 2025 . Prices start from  $1142  based on two sharing a Britannia Balcony stateroom.

For more information about Cunard, visit www.cunard.com .

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See 'Battle on the Beach' Star Alison Victoria Shut Down the Daytime Emmys in Daring Black Gown

'Windy City Rehab' was nominated for best instructional/how-to program.

Alison certainly had reason to get dressed up! Her series, Windy City Rehab, was nominated for best instructional/how-to program. Windy City Rehab was up against stiff competition in Fixer to Fabulous, Fixer Upper: The Hotel, Hack My Home, and Martha Gardens. The award ultimately went to Hack My Home, but we think Alison just might have won best dressed for the night.

For the event, Alison wore a dramatic black Roberto Cavali gown by Fausto Puglisi. The sultry dress has cut-out details, a daringly low back, and a long train. She paired the look with layers of bracelets and a bright white manicure, and left her hair down to show off her beachy waves.

Alison also had the honor of presenting an award alongside Evan Hofer, star of General Hospital.

Jenny Marrs , who was nominated for Fixer to Fabulous, shared fun candid photos from the night, including one of her hugging Alison on the red carpet, on her Instagram feed.

Congratulations to these HGTV stars on their nominations! We'll be looking forward to seeing more of Alison this week on Battle on the Beach.

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Katie Bowlby is Digital Director at Country Living, where she covers gift guides, product reviews, crafts, and TV shows like Yellowstone. She’s currently stitching up a cross-stitch pattern for the magazine’s next issue 

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