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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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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.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

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:

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

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

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Victoria & Vancouver Island   Travel Guide

Courtesy of JoeRos | Getty Images

17 Best Things To Do in Victoria & Vancouver Island

Updated Feb. 12, 2021

Devote a day to Victoria's picturesque Inner Harbour . Here you'll find popular sites like the Parliament Buildings and the Royal British Columbia Museum , as well as cafes and restaurants boasting wonderful views of the water. After you've exhausted

• All Things To Do

Inner Harbour Inner Harbour free

The Inner Harbour is Victoria's primary tourist neighborhood. The harbor itself – home to various fishing boats and colorful floating homes – is framed by wide pedestrian streets, often frequented by street vendors and buskers. Numerous cafes and restaurants line the sidewalks and provide the perfect locale to savor an afternoon cup of tea while keeping your eyes peeled for whales playing in the open water. The Inner Harbour also hosts some of Victoria's most popular attractions, including the  Royal British Columbia Museum  and the  Parliament Buildings . If you're embarking on a boat or ferry tour, this is where you'll likely start your journey.

Although the majority of recent visitors recommended spending a few hours at the Inner Harbour for the view, some suggested devoting at least half a day as there is always something interesting to see and do. For an even more charming scene, return in the evening, when the Parliament Buildings are lit up. 

The Butchart Gardens The Butchart Gardens

These world-renowned gardens have impressed Victoria visitors since 1904. Resting on 55 acres about 15 miles north of the  Inner Harbour , Butchart Gardens were carefully constructed by Jennie Butchart on her husband's former limestone quarry. Today, more than 1 million people stop by each year to meander along the property's flower-lined paths, which contain more than 900 varities. Visit on a summer evening to see the gardens illuminated by colored lights and to enjoy some musical entertainment. If you're planning a summer visit and want to avoid the crowds, heed the advice of garden staff and stop by before 10:30 a.m. or after 3:30 p.m.

Travelers describe the gardens as incredibly beautiful with awesome views and recommend that you bring a camera. They also advised setting aside several hours to make the most of the experience. If you need a break, retreat to one of the three eateries located on-site. There is also a carousel and boat tours available on-site.

Parliament Buildings Parliament Buildings free

The British Columbia Parliament Buildings are hard to miss. These neo-baroque structures with their impressive blue dome face off against Victoria's famed Fairmont Empress Hotel and make an excellent backdrop for an Inner Harbour stroll, especially at night when the facade is dressed in lights. But if you want a closer look at the building (which dates back to 1898), the parliamentary process and the history of the province, many travelers recommend a tour, raving about the well-informed guides. Although you can take a self-guided tour, you should consider tagging along on a free guided tour, according to recent visitors.

If you happen to be here when Parliament is in session, consider sitting in on one of the Legislative Assembly debates. You'll find a schedule of discussion topics on the  Parliamentary Calendar . The Parliament Buildings are open every day during the summer from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. On weekends, visitors must join a free public tour. During the winter, the buildings are open Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Complimentary guided tours run regularly throughout the day and last roughly 30 to 45 minutes. For more information, visit the British Columbia Parliament's visitor information  website .

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Royal British Columbia Museum Royal British Columbia Museum

The Royal British Columbia Museum offers visitors a comprehensive introduction to the region's history and culture. Exhibits include tribal artifacts from the First Nations, natural history displays and even replicas of Colonial-era settlements. The museum also boasts an IMAX theater and rotating special exhibits.

Recent visitors said this museum is a must-see when in Victoria as it offers a far-reaching look at the region's geography and indigenous people. Reviewers also praised the museum's layout, which is situated in chronological order. Some reviewers even said this was one of "the best museums" they've ever visited. Plus, if you're hungry, don't miss the museum's year-long food truck festival, which takes places in the building's back courtyard.

Goldstream Provincial Park Goldstream Provincial Park free

Located about 11 miles northwest of the  Inner Harbour , Goldstream Provincial Park houses a stunning array of flora and abundant natural beauty across its nearly 1,000 acres. But the real reason to visit this public wildlife area is rather fishy: Spend some time by the Goldstream River from late fall to early winter, and you're bound to catch a glimpse of the annual salmon migration. Between October and December, chum, coho and chinook salmon can be seen leaping upstream to their ancestral spawning beds. The park's trails follow the river closely, allowing you to get a good look at the watery highway.

Before you make a beeline for the river, consider stopping first at the Goldstream Nature House. The center offers educational programs on the annual salmon migration and other exhibits and activities. And even if you're not planning a winter trip to Vancouver Island, recent travelers said the massive cedar trees, abandoned gold mine and rumbling waterfalls make the park a must-see attraction at any time of year. Reviewers also said you should plan to wear appropriate hiking clothes and shoes so you can fully explore the park (and make your way up to the highest point in Greater Victoria – Mount Finlayson). When you need a break, stop for a picnic.

Mount Washington Alpine Resort Mount Washington Alpine Resort

Sitting on the eastern edge of Vancouver Island's Strathcona Provincial Park, the Mount Washington Alpine Resort is one of the region's most prominent ski areas. And it's easy to see why: The resort boasts 81 alpine runs and 1,657 feet of vertical drop. Couple that with an average 38 feet of annual snowfall and you've got a powder hound's paradise. Recent travelers who visited during ski season said the resort is small, but well-groomed and family-friendly, calling it a "gem."

Mount Washington is a year-round resort, so if you happen to miss ski season, you can take advantage of the area's many hiking and biking paths and gondola rides.

Fairmont Empress Fairmont Empress

Challenging the  Parliament Buildings  from across the  Inner Harbour  is the elegant Fairmont Empress hotel. Built in the early 20th century, the Empress is one of the region's oldest hotels. But while the interior decoration is worth a photo or two, the main reason to visit this colossal hotel (if you aren’t staying there) is for the tea. The Empress has been participating in this time-honored Victorian tradition since opening its doors, and according to travel experts and recent visitors, teatime continues to be a decadent affair here. (Fun fact: The tea served at the Empress is the hotel's own specially crafted brand.)

Although most Victoria visitors pass on high tea at the Empress due to its high price tag (around CA$78 or $61 per person), some visitors say that the experience is worth the money. If you're interested in experiencing more than just its famous tea service, consider staying at the  Fairmont Empress  while in Victoria, which lodgers love for its Old World feel. For more information, visit the hotel's  website .

Victoria Whale Watching Tours Victoria Whale Watching Tours

Though you may be able to spot whales from the ferry, you'll have the best chance of seeing them during an organized whale-watching tour. Plus, you'll benefit from knowledgeable guides who have access to the Race Rocks Ecological Reserve, which sits on the southernmost part of Vancouver Island (and Canada) on the Pacific coast.

There are a variety of tours available – some more intimate than others – but most last three to four hours. Recent visitors raved about their experiences with Eagle Wing Tours and BC Whale Tours . Some reviewers said they lost count of the amount of whales they saw, while others were particularly impressed with the guides, who kept a respectful distance from the animals and provided a wealth of information to tour goers.

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Cowichan Valley Cowichan Valley

British Columbia is peppered with vineyards. To snag a taste of BC vino (and maybe even a few bottles to bring home), spend a day or two in the Cowichan Valley – second only to the Okanagan as the province's highest producing wine region. Occupying the heart of Vancouver Island – roughly 35 miles northwest of Victoria – the Cowichan Valley is home to a variety of different wineries and tasting rooms. The best way to get a feel for this part of the island is to stop at several vineyards for a tasting. Or, to participate in the region's annual wine festival, plan to visit in late August.

But wine isn't the only reason to visit this beautiful stretch of Vancouver Island. The Cowichan Valley is also home to golf courses, art galleries and plenty of hiking terrain. Many travel experts also recommend bringing a bike so that you can cover more ground without confining yourself to the car. Recent visitors recommended the Cowichan Valley Trail for cycling and hiking.

Craigdarroch Castle Craigdarroch Castle

To sample the Victorian high life, head about a mile east of the  Inner Harbour  to Craigdarroch Castle, a National Historic Site. This impressive home was built in the late 1800s for coal tycoon Robert Dunsmuir. Although it's more of a mansion than a castle, it houses 39 rooms, each of which is decked out in furnishings from the turn of the 20th century. Another highlight are the more than 30 gorgeous stained glass windows, the majority of which illustrate floral themes.

Even if you aren't a big history buff, many previous visitors recommend stopping by Craigdarroch Castle for a glimpse into how the wealthy once lived, not to mention stunning views of downtown Victoria. The only downside among reviewers: The house doesn't have any ramps or elevators, making it difficult for visitors with mobility issues to tour the upper three floors of the castle.

Sooke Sooke free

This little community on the southern tip of Vancouver Island makes for a quaint and quiet alternative to Victoria. Sooke's sheltered harbor is filled with fishing boats rather than tourists, and its numerous parks provide a scenic backdrop for hiking, biking and horseback riding. Recent visitors enjoyed the East Sooke Regional Park, citing its beauty and peaceful setting. You'll also find an assortment of water activities here – including fishing, sailing and whale watching – thanks to the town's location on the Strait of Juan de Fuca.

And just because it's a small town doesn't mean you won't get your culture fix: Sooke hosts a variety of shops, art galleries and several notable festivals like the  Sooke Fine Arts Show  in July and August.

Victoria Butterfly Gardens Victoria Butterfly Gardens

While you wouldn't normally relate Canada with the jungle, the tropical wetlands thrive in the Victoria Butterfly Gardens. As its name suggests, this indoor facility is home to thousands of butterflies spread across its 12,000 square feet. But they aren't the only critters: The gardens also host a variety of birds and fish, including flamingos and koi fish. You'll find all of these creatures mingling amid the flora, creating a vibrant, colorful atmosphere. What's more, the gardens also house an insectarium with insects and invertebrates from around the globe.

Recent visitors called the Victoria Butterfly Gardens fun and family-friendly, with great staff. Reviewers also said that there is more to see than just butterflies, such as frogs, flamingoes and bugs. A few travelers remarked on the gardens' humid setting, advising future visitors to wear layers.

Victoria Bug Zoo Victoria Bug Zoo

If you're traveling to Victoria with kids in tow (or even without), many recent visitors recommended a stop at the Victoria Bug Zoo. Located a block or so north of the  Inner Harbour , this fairly small facility is home to a large number of creepy crawlies. Here, you'll come face to face with gigantic walking sticks, furry tarantulas and even glow-in-the-dark scorpions.

Recent visitors raved about the zoo's employees, who are ready to answer any questions you may have about their six- and eight-legged friends. Plus, you can even hold some of the insects – a major point of praise for reviewers.

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Miniature World Miniature World

Miniature World continues to delight the young and the young at heart with its numerous tiny worlds. Sitting just a short walk from the  Inner Harbour , this interactive museum houses dozens of miniature displays and dioramas. Follow the model Canadian railway as it travels across the country or spend some time at the big top in the "Circus World" display. If you are a literary buff, you'll appreciate a glimpse of the world of Dickens, while time travel aficionados should check out the "Space 2201 A.D." display.

Many recent visitors praised the models' intricate details, and said to take your time as you take it all in. Reviewers said this was an excellent way to spend a few hours on a rainy day and a lot of fun for kids. 

BC Aviation Museum BC Aviation Museum

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Activities in Greater Victoria

Whale watching or vineyard walking? Downtown charm or coastal exhilaration? Find things to do in Greater Victoria with local tips and helpful information below.

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16 Top-Rated Things to Do in Victoria, BC

Written by Lana Law Updated Dec 22, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

At the southern tip of Vancouver Island, Victoria is sheltered by the mountains of the Olympic Peninsula and influenced by the warm North Pacific current, creating the mildest climate in Canada. It's one of the warmest places in Canada in winter , and it's a popular tourist destination for Canadians and international travelers, with things to do year-round.

The capital of British Columbia, Victoria is a small city with a friendly small-town atmosphere. With no land connection to mainland Canada, it also has a slightly remote feel. And due to the size – a population of less than 100,000 – getting around is quick and easy, and much of the sightseeing can be done on foot.

Some of the things to see include the parks and gardens, festooned with foliage and flowers throughout the year. The charming city center is set around the scenic Inner Harbour , which retains its Victorian heritage buildings and atmosphere. In the Empress Hotel, people still gather for traditional afternoon tea.

Victoria is one of the key highlights of Vancouver Island . Ferries make it an easy day trip from Vancouver, but regular flights connecting through Vancouver also make it a perfect getaway destination from anywhere in North America. It's also a great place to kick off a trip to other parts of the island.

For ideas on places to visit, see our list of the top things to do in Victoria.

See also: Where to Stay in Victoria

1. Walk along the Inner Harbour

2. royal bc museum, 3. the butchart gardens, 4. fairmont empress hotel, 5. parliament buildings, 6. shop or dine at market square, 7. wander through cook street village, 8. beacon hill park, 9. craigdarroch castle, 10. hiking trails and scenic areas, 11. fort rodd hill national historic site, 12. hatley park national historic site, 13. victoria butterfly gardens, 14. victoria bug zoo, 15. chinatown and fan tan alley, 16. maritime museum of british columbia, where to stay in victoria for sightseeing, map of things to do in victoria, bc, victoria - climate chart.

Victoria's scenic Inner Harbour is the main attraction and the best starting point for tourists. Many of the city's top sights are located either on the harbor or within easy walking distance. You can stroll along the waterfront, pass by the Empress Hotel and Parliament buildings, watch street buskers perform on sunny days, or stop in at restaurant for a bite to eat.

If you are looking for something to do in Victoria, this is a good place to come. Boat tours leave from the docks, and horse-drawn carriages ply the streets above. Festivals and other events frequently take place in this area and there is always plenty of activity.

For travelers without their own vehicle, or for those who simply want to park the car for a while, staying on the harbor is the best idea. While the Fairmont Empress is the most obvious choice for location, the Delta Hotels Victoria Ocean Pointe Resort is another great option in a little less busy area.

The Inner Harbour is also where float planes land and take off, with service to Vancouver and Washington state.

British Columbia's provincial museum and archives is one of the best museums of natural and cultural history in Canada, with many three-dimensional displays offering a feast of sights, smells, and sounds.

Walk through a rainforest, view animals on West Coast beaches and in tidal wetlands, sit among aboriginal ceremonial poles and masks, walk through a big house, and learn of First Nations people's struggles after European settlement. Other interactive features include a replica HMS Discovery - the ship that brought Captain Vancouver to these shores, and a street of shops in Old Town.

Outside, Thunderbird Park is home to traditionally carved memorial and house poles. Nearby, the small mid-19th century, Helmcken House is the oldest residence in British Columbia still standing on its original site. The house once belonged to J.S. Helmcken, a practicing doctor and local politician. He campaigned vigorously for the then British colony of Victoria and British Columbia to join the newly established confederation of Canada.

Note that big plans were in place to completely demolish and rebuild the museum starting in 2022, however, due to the massive cost the project was shelved. However, in anticipation of the project many of the displays were put into storage. The museum is slowly rebuilding the dismantled exhibits but it will be quite some time before it's back to normal.

The museum is situated midway between the Parliament Buildings and the Fairmont Empress Hotel.

Address: 675 Belleville Street, Victoria, British Columbia

Official site: http://royalbcmuseum.bc.ca/

Although the garden is a short drive from downtown Victoria, it is one of the premier tourist attractions in the area and worth taking the time to see. It's also a place you can visit several times a year to see the changes throughout the seasons. Even in winter, the gardens are a lovely sight, with an outdoor skating rink and a fabulous display of lights around Christmas.

The garden was started in 1904 by Jennie Butchart, wife of a wealthy quarry owner. She laid out a fragrant garden in this abandoned limestone quarry. Flourishing, not least because of the mild climate, the gardens have since been developed into a 20-hectare horticultural tour de force without rival in Canada.

The Italian garden, rose garden, Japanese garden, and sunken garden are among the loveliest. Open spaces among the pools, fountains, and the many exotic plants are used for artistic and musical performances.

To reach The Butchart Gardens, follow Highway 17A north for 22 kilometers to Brentwood Bay on the Saanich Peninsula.

Address: 800 Benvenuto Ave, Brentwood Bay, British Columbia

Official site: http://www.butchartgardens.com/

Built in 1908 for Canadian Pacific, like the Château Frontenac in Québec City, the Fairmont Empress Hotel on the Inner Harbour is one of Victoria's best-loved landmarks. This historic hotel has hosted celebrities and famous people throughout the decades, including members of the British Monarchy.

Architect Francis M. Rattenbury designed the Empress, and entering the vast lobby of this luxurious hotel is like journeying back in time to before the First World War.

Enjoying Afternoon Tea , served with great style in the Lobby Lounge, is one of the most popular things to do if you are visiting the city. Be sure to make a reservation if you want to guarantee a spot.

An extension on the north side of the Empress Hotel houses a collection of several dozen scenes in miniature at Miniature World . The models of historical events, castles, and dollhouses captivate young and old alike.

Address: 721 Government Street, Victoria

Dominating the south side of the Inner Harbour is the imposing seat of British Columbia's provincial government, the Parliament Buildings. Designed by Yorkshire architect Francis M. Rattenbury and erected in 1897, the imposing stone buildings have neat, orderly gardens and are very attractive in appearance – especially in the evening when lit by festoons of lights.

Perched high above the massive dome is a gilded statue of Captain George Vancouver (1757-98), who accomplished the first circumnavigation of Vancouver Island. Figures of famous personalities from the province embellish the façade. A large statue of Queen Victoria surveys the Inner Harbour from the terrace.

Highlights of a visit include an excellent overview of the history of British Columbia, details on the architectural design, and an education on the parliamentary system. Not to be missed are the impressive Queen Elizabeth II Golden Jubilee and Diamond Jubilee stained-glass windows. Another must see is the Memorial Rotunda , with its intricately painted walls and dome.

If parliament is sitting, members of the public are welcome to observe the session from the visitors' gallery.

If you work up an appetite while visiting, consider an elegant, yet understated breakfast or lunch at the Parliamentary Dining Room .

An alternative to touring the inside of the Parliament Buildings is a pleasant stroll around the grounds. Top sights include the Front Fountain, Knowledge Totem Pole, and the giant Sequoia Tree. In the spring and summer, stroll in behind the buildings and take in the sights and smells of the Premier's Rose Garden .

Address: 501 Belleville Street, Victoria, British Columbia

Official site: https://www.leg.bc.ca/learn-about-us/visiting-the-legislature

One of Victoria's most unique shopping areas is Market Square. Hidden from view from the street, the market is an open-air area behind wonderfully restored historical buildings. Patios line the multileveled area, and the sunny main square hosts a regular roster of performances.

Market Square is a mix of over 30 retailers consisting of one-of-a-kind boutiques, restaurants, and services. Wander around and pop into a few places to find local works of art, jewelry, crafts, and one of kind items. The pleasant vibe and comfortable environment will likely make you want to linger. Grabbing a bite at one of the innovative restaurants is a great way to satisfy that craving.

Market Square has three main entrances: Johnson, Pandora, and Store streets. Across Johnson Street and down a small cobblestone alley is the entrance to Il Terrazzo restaurant , one of Victoria's most enduring and popular dining establishments.

One of the trendiest areas of Victoria is Cook Street Village. Just down the street from Beacon Hill Park, this funky little area has good restaurants and nice shops. The main area is compact and runs from Oliphant Avenue for three blocks to Oscar Street.

For most of the year, restaurants have patios filled with patrons soaking up the vibe and staying busy by undertaking some serious people watching. Food trucks have their own little area complete with picnic tables under a large tree.

A very pleasant afternoon can be had by grabbing lunch on a patio, exploring the village, and then walking 10 minutes down Cook Street to the Dallas Road Waterfront Trail . This route stretches for miles, and the views across the Juan de Fuca Strait to the Olympic Mountains on a clear day are sublime.

Green and well tended, Beacon Hill Park is a favorite outdoor area close to the city center. From its highest point, lovely views look across Juan de Fuca Strait to the snowy peaks of the Olympic Peninsula .

The park is home to huge trees, gardens, and ponds. Walking trails lead through the park to quiet benches and areas for peaceful relaxation. You can see a variety of wildlife here, from deer to peacocks, ducks, and occasionally even an otter. Paths also lead to high points with beautiful views out over the ocean and mountains.

Other features in the park include recreational areas for baseball, tennis, cricket, and lawn bowling. Two water parks provide summer fun for kids.

A milestone on the southwest edge of the park, called Mile 0 , marks the western end of the continent-spanning Trans-Canada Highway . Nearby is a statue of Terry Fox, who attempted to run across Canada in 1980 to raise money for cancer research.

Address: 100 Cook Street, Victoria

Victoria's fairy-tale mansion, Craigdarroch Castle, is considered a gem of Victorian architecture and is a National Historic Site. Immigrant Scottish entrepreneur Robert Dunsmuir, who made his fortune in coal mining, commissioned the home in the 1880s but died before his mansion was completed. Family drama around the home ensued.

The house is situated in a particularly affluent area of Victoria. Elegant Rockland centers on Rockland Avenue, which is lined with grand heritage homes including Government House - the official residence of Her Majesty's representative in British Columbia. The house is open to the public but is not equipped with ramps or elevators.

Address: 1050 Joan Crescent, Victoria

Official site: http://thecastle.ca/

Victoria is one of the most scenic cities in Canada, and if you want to fully appreciate some of the views, head for the parks and tackle some local hiking trails . Many of these are short and can be done in a half-day or a couple of hours.

For coastal scenery, the Coastal Trail in Sooke is a wonderful seaside trail looking out to the distant mountains. The Mount Work hiking trail is another great hiking trail and good workout, leading to a highpoint with views to the Olympic Mountains and down Sanich Inlet.

For a little history, check out the Trestle Bridge Hiking Trail in Goldstream Provincial Park , and along the way, stop at Niagara Falls. Or, for something a little easier, try the Kinsol Trestle Bridge Trail , perfect for all abilities.

Read More: Best Hiking Trails on Vancouver Island

The gun batteries at Fort Rodd Hill National Historic Site, about 13 kilometers west of Victoria, used to guard the sheltered waters of Esquimalt Harbour, once a British naval base. The guns were in service from 1895 to 1956. Today, the well-preserved fortress can be visited.

Fort Rodd Hill National Historic Site is a perfect family outing when visiting Victoria. The fort has lots of interesting hideouts for kids to explore, guns to climb on, and the seashore out front usually has something interesting washed up. From the beach, walk about 10 minutes out to the point and Fisgard Lighthouse . This iconic Victoria photo spot was the first light on the west coast of Canada.

If you truly want to make your family visit an adventure, consider camping overnight at one of the fully self-contained oTENTik units.

Address: 603 Fort Rodd Hill Road, Victoria

Official site: https://www.pc.gc.ca/en/lhn-nhs/bc/fortroddhill

Hatley Park National Historic Site consists of Hatley Castle, built in 1908 by former British Columbia Premier and coal baron, James Dunsmuir. This Edwardian estate also showcases Japanese, Italian, and rose gardens.

The castle has also been featured in several films. Most famously, it was a filming location in the X Men movie series , as the School for Gifted Youngsters run by Professor Xavier.

The building today houses the administrative office of Royal Roads University , but is open to the public. You can choose to walk through the gardens or take a guided tour of the castle.

Address: 2005 Sooke Road, Victoria

Official site: http://hatleypark.ca/

Located near Butchart Gardens, the Victoria Butterfly Gardens feature much more than just butterflies. These indoor tropical gardens house up to 75 species of exotic butterflies and moths, plus tropical birds, fish, and reptiles. In 2017, the Butterfly Gardens also opened an Insectarium .

Ducks, flamingos, parrots, tortoises, frogs, and iguanas wander around the jungle environment. This interesting facility, which incorporates waterfalls, trees, and flowers, makes for a wonderful escape on a cool winter day and is the best place to visit in Victoria for an indoor hit of nature.

Address: 1461 Benvenuto Ave, Central Saanich

Official site: http://www.butterflygardens.com/

This may not be for everyone, but if you want to explore the wonderful world of bugs, or perhaps attempt to get over your fear of spiders, this is the place to visit. Enter a world of insects and spiders at the Victoria Bug Zoo.

The facility has a range of bugs from all over the world, many of which you can hold and interact with. The critter-focused attraction is located beside the Magnolia Hotel, easily walkable from Victoria's Inner Harbour.

Address: 631 Courtney Street, Victoria

Official site: http://www.victoriabugzoo.ca/

Adjoining the Old Town is Victoria's small, but nevertheless charming, Chinatown. Entered through a conspicuous gate, it occupies just two blocks close to Government Street and Fisgard Street. A century ago, 8000 people lived in the Chinese quarter. In 1971, it became a designated historic district.

One of the favorite sightseeing stops in Chinatown is the exceedingly narrow Fan Tan Alley . Located about two thirds of the way up Fisgard street as you head north to Government Street, the easy-to-miss entrance is on the right-hand side. The alley runs for a full city block from Fisgard street to Pandora street.

Down this little alley you'll find a treasure trove of interesting shops and restaurants. Photographers will be in their element trying to capture the ideal shot, considering the unique angles and tricky lighting.

If you head south of Chinatown, cross Store street, and turn right towards the water on Swift street, you'll find a delightful area of old buildings and restaurants with water-view patios. A short waterfront walkway runs along the seashore, and it's from here that many tour boats depart.

If you head south and turn left, you'll come to the brand new Johnson Street bridge. This futuristic, white bridge is a new addition to the Victoria waterfront and is especially beguiling at night when it's lit up in a soft blue color.

The Maritime Museum of British Columbia moved locations, and today is in a holding pattern until a new facility can be built in the next few years. Many of the 35,000 pieces are in storage, however, a small 3,000-square-foot temporary display location has some interesting things on display.

One of the exhibits is the SS Princess Sophia . Created with exquisite attention to detail, this scale model of the ship is fascinating to look at. Another fun exhibit for all members of the family is knot tying. Try your luck at creating some of the most common maritime knots - it's more difficult than you might imagine!

Address: 634 Humboldt Street, Victoria

Official site: http://mmbc.bc.ca/

For a conveniently located hotel in Victoria, we recommend these properties:

• Abigail's Hotel : If you're looking for charming and romantic, this 1930s Tudor mansion is the place. Enjoy four-star luxury, romantic four-poster beds, wood-burning fireplaces, and free breakfast and appetizers at this adults-only hotel .
• Victoria Regent Waterfront Hotel : This mid-range waterfront hotel features harbor views, spacious suites with full kitchens, floor-to-ceiling windows, and is set in a fantastic location.
• Best Western Plus Inner Harbour : For budget-minded travelers looking for affordable rates without compromising on location, the Best Western is a good choice. The hotel is located just one block in from the harbor and comes with an outdoor heated pool, whirlpool and sauna, and hot breakfast.
• Capital City Center Hotel : This pleasant budget hotel, within walking distance to the harbor area, features an outdoor seasonal pool, comfortable beds, and 24-hour concierge.

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25 best things to do in victoria, bc + travel guide.

Victoria, British Columbia is one of the most underrated cities in Canada. It’s got a vibrant waterfront, bustling downtown and foodie scene, and some excellent activities for outdoor lovers like myself. So there are plenty of fun things to do in Victoria whether you’re into history, nature or getting fancy.

In this post, you’ll find a comprehensive list of the best things to do in Victoria, some background information on the city and practical travel information like getting around and where to stay.

This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Your support is much appreciated! You can learn more by reading my full disclosure .

About Victoria

Victoria is the provincial capital of British Columbia and is one of the oldest cities in the Pacific Northwest. Established in 1843, it was named for Queen Victoria and has several well-preserved historical buildings.

Victoria is also home to the oldest Chinatown in Canada / second oldest Chinatown in North America. And charmingly, Victoria is known as ‘The Garden City’ with an almost overwhelming number of flowers everywhere.

Victoria is situated on the traditional territory of Lekwungen , a Coast Salish first nations people. At present, the nearest First Nation is Songhees Nation. Throughout Victoria, there are seven carvings that mark places of cultural significance for Lekwungen people, and you can find them all on this page of the Songhees Nation website .

How to Get to Victoria

Getting to Victoria is pretty straight forward, but it does require a little planning ahead of time. Unless you’re already on Vancouver Island or flying directly into Victoria, you’ll need to take the ferry.

How to get from Vancouver to Victoria

You can fly from Vancouver to Victoria. This is the fastest option but also the most expensive. You can use Harbour Air Sea Planes. Check prices and schedules here .

Instead, the best way to get from Vancouver to Victoria is to take the ferry . The ferry is operated by BC Ferries. Check prices and schedules here .

The ferry leaves from Tsawwassen Harbour (which is south of Vancouver) and goes to Swartz Harbour (which is north of Victoria). The ferry takes about 1.5 hours.

To get to Tsawwassen, you can either drive your own vehicle, take a bus or take a cab / Uber. The same is true going from Swartz to Victoria. Bus routes change occasionally, so I recommend planning the route on Google Maps and following its recommended route.

Getting Around Victoria

You definitely don’t need a car in Victoria, and I’d recommend going without one. Almost all of the activities are within walking distance within downtown. You can also rent a bike or take public transit for the further away destinations. I absolutely loved navigating the city by bike and transit (even when it did rain a little).

How long should you spend in Victoria

You could see all of the highlights in Victoria within 48 hours, and I think this is the perfect amount of time to spend. On this trip, we were initially meant to stay 24 hours but felt there was still more to see and extended our trip by a day.

By the end of the 48 hours, however, we felt we’d visited all the destinations we were interested in seeing and were ready to leave. So if you have the time, I recommend allowing for a full two days.

Map of things to do in Victoria

Things to do in Victoria, BC

1. explore inner harbour.

The Inner Harbour is incredibly beautiful. Both the British Columbia Parliament Building and the Fairmont Empress sit across from the harbour. The Visitor’s Centre is here as well. The walk along the harbour is lush with flowers (as you can see from the many pictures I took). There are boats moored to the docks and the occasional pickle boat arriving or departing.

The Inner Harbour is close to a lot of the top restaurants and shops in Victoria and is a great place to stroll around before dinner (and as the sun sets).

2. Visit Butchart Gardens

Butchart Gardens is an absolutely stunning garden just north of Victoria. We hopped on a bus outside of the parliament building in downtown Victoria and travelled a little less than an hour. We were dropped off right at the Butchart Gardens entrance.

For me, the highlight of the gardens was the Sunken Garden. You descend down a flight of stone steps and then weave through a series of beautifully colourful arrangements. What makes it so special though is that there are stone walls and short cliffs on all sides. That, plus the canopy of trees above makes the whole area feel very cozy.

Yohann, on the other hand, loved the Japanese Garden. Bamboo shoots sprung out of the ground on either side; there was a pond with stepping stones to cross.

You can either drive to the gardens or take the bus from downtown. The bus takes about an hour and will cost $2.50 each way.

Admission to the gardens (at the time of writing) is $36 for each adult.

Tour Option : There is gardens + boat tour that takes you from Victoria to the Butchart Gardens, and then on a sunset ferry back to Vancouver. This would be a great way to end your trip in Victoria.

>>Check prices and schedule for the tour here

Note: I am not sponsored / affiliated with Butchart Gardens. Both my boyfriend and I paid for our tickets ourselves.

3. Go Whale Watching

Victoria is an excellent place to go whale watching, and it’s probably one of the best places in Canada (tied with the St Lawrence Seaway and the east coast of Newfoundland perhaps).

We went with a tour company called Eagle Wing Tours . They were the highest-rated tour group on Google and had the largest coverage area. We had three guides on board who were all naturalists / marine biologists. I’ve never had a wildlife tour provide so much education on the species we were seeing.

>> You can book the tour here .

The tour lasted 3.5 hours and during that time we saw a few pods of Killer Whales (orcas) and a pair of Minke whales.

By far the highlight was seeing a group of orcas hunt a porpoise, and in doing so, punt the porpoise out of the air. Somehow I, the clumsy photographer, managed to click the shutter at the right moment and capture this crazy occurrence.

Apparently, Minke whales are quite rare to see, especially so close to the boat, so that was also a nice treat.

We also visited an island where puffins nest and saw three puffins floating in the water. Then we went to another island to check out some harbour seals. Overall it was a successful trip and I highly recommend this company!

Note: I am not sponsored / affiliated with Eagle Wings. Both my boyfriend and I paid for our tickets ourselves.

5. Explore the coast by bike

After this bike ride in Victoria, I am convinced biking is the best way to explore a new city, especially a coastal city. You can explore more of a city than you can on foot, but you still get to make spontaneous stops and take everything in, unlike when in a car.

There aren’t designated bike lanes, but there isn’t that much traffic either. So even the timid biker (myself) will feel comfortable getting around.

Renting Bikes : Our hotel had free bike rentals (though there are places where you can rent bikes too). Ensure you get a bike lock so you can store your bike safely while making stops.

Many of the following destinations were visited by bike.

6. Visit China Town

Victoria is home to the oldest Chinatown in Canada, and the second oldest in North America. There are a lot of great shops to pop into here, as well as some Chinese restaurants and markets to get a bite to eat.

7. Fisherman’s Wharf

Fisherman’s Wharf is a community of houseboats, shops and food stands right on the water. I haven’t seen another place like this in Canada, so it’s definitely worth a visit. The best fish place we went to was here (The Fish Stop, see below). The whale watching tour also launched from here.

8. Check Out the Unity Wall Mural

After the Fisherman’s Wharf, if you continue tracing the coast you’ll eventually come to Unity Wall Mural. It was painted by First Nations artists to celebrate and honour the history and traditions of the Salish Nations, the original inhabitants of what is now the Greater Victoria Area.

You can read more about the mural and the incredible artists here .

9. Bike to Holland Point Park

If you continue biking from the Unity Wall Mural, you’ll come to Holland Point Park. Here we were able to lock the bikes and walk down to a pebble beach. Driftwood and kelp were scattered amongst the stones; wildflowers grew along the cliff face. It’s a really pretty spot and a natural place to turn the bikes around and peddle back downtown.

10. Go Shopping on Government

Before dinner, do a little window shopping on Government Street. The street (and those adjacent to it) has some cute and quirky shops, plus some well known outdoor brands. 

Here are a few stores I really liked (I’ve also included them on the map above):

Migration Boutique

A cute shop with a stop is Migration. It sources pieces from the most local designers in Victoria of any store here. It is a great place to find pretty, moderately priced jewelry, interesting t-shirts and some quirky home trinkets. I found a fun shirt with a deer on it (perfect after I spilled coffee on my original shirt).

Upcycle – A Clothing Collective

One shop I definitely recommend checking out is Upcycle, an eco-conscious mid-tier consignment shop. They have some high end brands, like the occasional Hugo Boss sweater, but mostly it’s beautiful eclectic clothing from known and unknown brands. I did manage to score four lululemon items that totalled less than $125.

Ecologyst is an outdoor lifestyle clothing brand. All of its clothing is sustainably sourced and made in Canada, with the majority being made right in Victoria. The clothing is pricey (understandable since it’s made in Canada), but is very high quality and can be purchased with a clear conscience.

In addition to those listed above (which I personally did on this exact trip), here are some additional activities in Victoria that you could do if you had more than two days in the city.

11. Learn at the Royal British Columbia Museum

Victoria is home to the excellent Royal British Columbia Museum, which can make for an excellent activity if the weather turns a little too rainy. There are several permanent exhibitions, as well as others that are seasonal. While I was there the Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibit was on.

12. Kayak to Tod Inlet

If you’d like to be closer to the water, instead of whale watching you can go kayaking. A popular choice is to start at Brentwood Bay and kayak to Tod Inlet, which offers the chance to see blue herons, sea stars and seals.

13. Hike Mount Douglas

Mount Douglas is a popular hike outside Victoria. It’s a total of 4 km (round trip) and requires 1.5 hours to complete. The elevation gain is 205 m. From the top, you get great views of the city and can even see out to the ocean.

We were supposed to hike up Mount Douglas with some friends upon arriving in Victoria, but we missed our intended ferry and couldn’t make the hike. Our friends said they really enjoyed it and that is was suitable for all levels of hikers.

14. Walk along Willows Beach

Willows Beach is perhaps the most popular beach around Victoria (although it’s less popular for swimming). The beach is sandy with driftwood logs scattered about. Swimmers beware – the water is super cold!

There’s also a tea room nearby (which might be needed to warm you up if you do go in the water!).

15. Tour Craigdarroch Castle

Did you know Victoria has its own castle? While it might not compare with the castles of Europe, it’s pretty impressive for a North American castle. You can take a tour and explore the interior and exterior of the castle.

16. Visit the Victoria Art Gallery

Another great activity for a rainy day is visiting the Victoria Art Gallery. In addition to featuring global works of art, the gallery has made a significant effort to showcase art and artists local to the Pacific Rim area.

17 & 18. Bike the Lochside Trail or Galloping Goose Trail

If biking along the shoreline wasn’t enough for you, consider biking down the Lochside or Galloping Goose Trails.

Where to Eat in Victoria, BC

Victoria has so many incredible eateries that they are activities in their own right.

19. Get French at Little Jumbo

For dinner on our first night, we went to the highly-rated Little Jumbo. The restaurant has a bit of a speakeasy vibe to it – exposed brick walls, a long leather bench extending the length of the restaurant with wooden tables along with it.

The food was excellent – try the seared tuna, the halibut on risotto or the lamb. They also had great truffle fries (a personal favourite of mine), some good dessert options and a menu of eclectic cocktails.

20. Eat fresh fish at The Fish Store

You’ll find The Fish Store along the water in Fisherman’s Wharf. We went there for lunch after the whale watching tour. There have tons of options for fish-based soups, salads, tacos, and of course, your classic Fish & Chips.

As recommended by the employee working there, I got the tuna and salmon tacos and a side of salmon chowder. Oh my goodness, was it tasty. I’ve never had seared tuna in a taco before. And the salmon chowder was excellent – you could tell it was made fresh.

21. Get Fancy with Afternoon Tea at the Fairmont Empress

On my first trip to Victoria, which would have been more than 10 years ago, my mom and I did Afternoon Tea at the Fairmont Empress. I still have the container the tea came in (and have saved a few of the tea bags – does tea expire?).

It’s a wonderfully elegant way to spend the afternoon – tea, finger sandwiches and biscuits in a room that looks like it’s straight out of Buckingham Palace. It was sold out for the entirety of this trip, but 10 year old Mikaela strongly recommends you check it out.

If afternoon tea isn’t to your fancy, there is also Q at the Empress at the hotel which is one of the best places for brunch in Victoria .

22. Find food and art at Imagine Studio Cafe

On our bike back we passed this incredibly cute cafe. There were tons of flowers outside and plenty of patio seating – my kind of place. I purchased some cards from a local artist and bought a piece of bannock. Bannock is kind of like a scone, especially warmed up with butter and jam.

23. Get drinks at Bard & Banker

Bard & Banker is reminiscent of the kind of car you’d see in an episode of Mad Men. And they have one of the most extensive drinks menus I’ve ever seen. Some nights they host live music too.

After drinks, be sure to walk by the Parliament Building on your way home. It gets lit up at night and looks like a fairy tale.

24. Indulge treats at La Roux Pâtisserie

Just outside of Chinatown is a great French pastry shop. Although it was only 10:30 am, I couldn’t resist getting a treat. I had a hazelnut pastry with a hint of chocolate (kind of had a slight Nutella vibe to it). They also have a good selection of tea and espresso beverages.

25. Get dirty with ice cream at Perverted

If you seriously want to indulge, go to Perverted for an incredible ice cream cone. All of the cones are made with either Vanilla or Chocolate soft serve ice cream, and then topped with a variety of treats. I got the Salted Caramel, and it had caramel sauce, crushed pretzels and a chocolate wafer. So good.

Where to Stay in Victoria

Hotel grand pacific.

We stayed at the Hotel Grand Pacific and really liked it. It’s located right across from the Inner Harbour and adjacent to the Parliament Building. It’s within walking distance to tons of shops and restaurants, the Royal BC Museum and more. They also provided free bike rentals, which made it easy to visit the XX and Chinatown.

>>Check latest prices here

I was not sponsored by Hotel Grand Pacific. My boyfriend and I paid for our room ourselves (using a great deal from BC Ferries – more on that below).

Other Options

Luxury : The Fairmont Empress would be the more luxurious – and most expensive – hotel in Victoria. Check latest prices here .

Mid-Range : There are tons and tons of mid-range hotels in Victoria. The best bang for your buck would be to go with one of these vacation packages by BC Ferries, which include a mid-range hotel and the ferry from Vancouver to Victoria.

Budget : There are two hostels / inns suitable for backpackers in downtown Victoria for budget travellers. Check out latest prices here .

Additional Resources

I hope you’ve found this post helpful and have discovered a few things to do in Victoria to add to your itinerary. In addition to the above, the following resources may be of use to you in planning your trip to Victoria.

Tourism Victoria Website

Downtown Victoria Events Calendar

Hello BC 3 Day Victoria Itinerary

Mikaela | Voyageur Tripper

Mikaela has been canoeing, hiking and camping for over ten years. She previously worked as a canoeing guide in Canada, and spent a season guiding hiking and kayaking tours in the high Arctic. Mikaela is a Wilderness First Responder and Whitewater Rescue Technician.

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The top 10 attractions in Victoria

Things to do

Many have heard of Victoria External Link Title , a Travel + Leisure External Link Title Top 10 North American city External Link Title with quaint British flair. That's because it's beautiful, charming, and artsy, not to mention surrounded by passionate locavore farmers and craft brewers. Also on offer? Scenic coastal hiking, biking, and marine sea life all within striking distance.

Though you might not realize it, Victoria is British Columbia 's capital. It's also situated on the southern tip of giant Vancouver Island External Link Title ,  and is just a short float plane ride away from the mainland's city of Vancouver External Link Title . Victoria's sunny climate -- Canada's mildest -- means a visit any time of year is pleasant.  Scan this quick guide to Victoria so you  don't miss out on these top 10 attractions.

Butchart Gardens

Arguably the area's biggest draw, the celebrated Butchart Gardens External Link Title  offer 55 acres of showy displays of flowers, blossoms, shrubs, and trees meticulously manicured and landscaped, plus an enormous dragon fountain gifted from China. It's a delight to stroll or sit among the classic rose garden or under a fragrant vine-draped pavilion. If you're up for something else, Butchart also hosts all kinds of workshops, walks, dining and afternoon tea External Link Title options, boat tours, lawn concerts External Link Title , and events, including the summer Saturday evening fireworks shows External Link Title . Allow time to browse the art-filled Seed and Gift Store External Link Title .

Victoria claims its part in the craft beer revolution as the site of Canada's first brewpub, and things have come a long way since then. Follow the Ale Trail External Link Title  to ensure you don't miss any  staples -- Canoe Brewpub External Link Title , Swans Brewpub External Link Title , Vancouver Island Brewery External Link Title , Spinnakers Brewpub External Link Title -- and mix it up with some up-and-comers, matched with outstanding Vancouver Island fare.

Inner Harbour

Beautiful is no exaggeration when referring to the postcard-perfect Inner Harbour External Link Title . It's a historic fishing and shipbuilding area with distinctive architecture rooted in trade dating back to the coastal First Nations. Today, the Harbour a bustling place with cruise ships, recreational boats, ferries, and float planes gliding in and out. It's your starting place for a kayaking or whale-watching excursion, an ideal spot for walking and people or busker watching, and it's within walking distance of the 200-acre, oceanside Beacon Hill Park External Link Title and the city's historic downtown core. Check the events calendar External Link Title for summer events, outdoor concerts, shows, and festivals.

Prince of Whales Whale Watching and Marine Adventures

A North American No. 1 whale-watching destination External Link Title  according to Travel + Leisure , you want to see Vancouver Island's gargantuan marine creatures in action. The pros at Prince of Whales External Link Title will take you out on the water to spot acrobatic humpback, pods of up to 100 leaping orcas, and mink whales, plus bald eagles, sea lions, dolphins, porpoises, and harbour seals. Though you can consistently see whales from March to October, go in March and April to see migrating gray whales or in May and June for humpback.

Royal BC Museum

Known for its superb collection of First Nations art External Link Title , the Royal BC Museum External Link Title focuses on natural and human history through a social and environmental lens, with 7 million artefacts, specimens, and documents on display. The approach is immersive, so you'll get to experience what it was like in Victoria in the 1920s or how it might've felt standing next to a hulking woolly mammoth. Learn about British Columbian royalty External Link Title , like  iconic painter Emily Carr External Link Title , or watch an immersive IMAX movie External Link Title .

Eating local

Victoria's rural Saanich Peninsula External Link Title is locavore haven, dotted with rolling hills, green fields, farms, boutique wineries, and cideries. Bonus: Most spots out here are mom-'n-pop type operations devoted to organic, sustainable practices. The city celebrates its producers, proudly showcasing area suppliers and labels. Dine at a  local favourite External Link Title , taste some Vancouver Island wine or cider at the source, or pick up the catch of the day from the wharf External Link Title near downtown. There's also the Victoria Public Market External Link Title , which has it all under one roof.

The Spa at Brentwood Bay Resort

Add West Coast-style R&R to your itinerary. Not only is Brentwood Bay Resort and Spa External Link Title  stylishly  perched in the trees overlooking the ocean, it's also home to a tranquil, full-service spa External Link Title offering hot stone and traditional Thai massage, plus an outdoor hot tub and pool. Top rated by Cond? Nast Traveler and others, the resort leads acclaimed Pacific foraging and seafood eco tours a nd paddling adventure packages External Link Title , too .

Legislative Buildings

British Columbia's graceful Parliament Buildings External Link Title are a signature Victoria landmark. Overlooking the harbour, the legislature is open year-round to the public including seven days a week in summertime. Take a guided tour External Link Title to learn more about BC's provincial government or explore the buildings on your own. You can even dine there and rub elbows with VIPs or pick up a souvenir in the gift shop. The 45-minute tours are free.

Cook Street Village

Charm? Victoria's got it in spades. Historical Cook Street Village External Link Title , with its European feel, eclectic stores, coffee houses, gourmet grocers, clothing boutiques, Brit-style pubs, and creative eateries, is a good example. The Old World ambiance is leisurely, so you can take your time browsing the neighbourhood, which spans five blocks between Oscar and Leonard streets. You'll also want to shop Johnson Street External Link Title , with its handsome heritage buildings and overflowing flower baskets, and Canada's oldest Chinatown External Link Title . While you're at it, rent External Link Title and ride bikes. Victoria is a fantastic cycling city.

Afternoon Tea at the Empress

High tea in Victoria is a long and storied tradition. And it's especially great at the  Fairmont Empress External Link Title hotel, a stately brick Edwardian frequented by royalty, where  traditional English afternoon tea External Link Title is served in the elegant dining room. Skip breakfast so you can fit in all the pastries, finger sandwiches, and flaky scones with clotted cream and jam. 

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15 AWESOME THINGS TO DO IN VICTORIA, BC

by Wild About BC | Vancouver Island

British Columbia’s capital city of Victoria is one of the most picturesque cities in the world. Located right on the ocean, on the southern tip of Vancouver Island , it is easy to see why it has become such a popular destination for both local and international tourists. The city is charming, the people are friendly and there are plenty of awesome things to do in Victoria, BC.

The main hub of the city is the inner harbour which is a spectacular setting for a city centre. The bustling waterfront is full of boats and seaplanes and several grand buildings line the harbour, including the Fairmont Empress and the Parliament building.

Victoria is ideal for not only weekend escapes (although it is one of our favourite weekend escape s from Vancouver ) but can also be included in longer trips, such as our Vancouver Island Road Trip Itinerary. Whether you have just 2 days to explore or an entire week, you will find lots of awesome things to do in this fabulous city.

Disclaimer – This post may contain affiliate links, meaning we receive a small commission if you make a purchase at NO extra cost to you. This will never impact our reviews and we only recommend products and services we firmly believe in.

Where to Stay in Victoria

Budget: Ocean Island Inn – A perfect spot for a budget trip to Victoria. This hostel is right in the heart of Victoria and won’t break the bank.

Mid-range: Helm’s Inn – Situated right on the corner of Beacon Hill Park and just minutes away from the inner harbour, this is an amazing location. The rooms are fantastic and select rooms also come with a kitchenette so you can cook your own meals.

Luxury: Fairmont Empress – There is only one choice for a luxury stay in Victoria and that’s the Fairmont Empress located right in the inner harbour. There are stunning views of the harbour, the location is as central as possible and the hotel rooms are on another level.

Things to Do in Victoria BC

1. whale watching.

The west coast of Canada is famous for its massive population of whales, the most exciting of which are the elusive killer whales. There are also grey whales and humpbacks swimming in the local waters. Head out on a whale watching day tour to spot these amazing animals in their natural habitat. There are few places in the world that are quite as spectacular as the waters around Victoria to enjoy a whale watching tour.

Book your Victoria whale watching tour here !

2. Parliament Building and the Inner Harbour

As we already mentioned, the inner harbour in Victoria is one of the highlights of the city. Few places in the world can boast of a city centre this spectacular and you could easily sit for hours here watching the world go by. It is a very busy harbour with whale watching tours, seaplanes and boats coming and going every few minutes.

The Parliament building which overlooks the harbour is also an impressive sight and the sprawling green grass that runs down to the water is the perfect place to relax and soak in some sun on a sunny day here.

3 . Butchart Gardens

The Butchart Gardens is one of the most popular tourist attractions on Vancouver Island. They are just a short drive from Victoria’s city centre and the 5 different gardens span 55 acres. There are millions of bedding plants in over 900 varieties.

While gardens and flowers aren’t typically our thing, Butchart Gardens is without a doubt worth a visit. The vast array of colours and smells is incredible and it’s easy to spend hours walking through all of the different gardens. If you’re visiting in the summer, be sure to check out their impressive Saturday night firework show.

Get your tickets online for Butchart Gardens here .

4 . Fisherman’s Wharf

The mini floating community of Fisherman’s Wharf is one of the best and most unique places to visit in the city. The wharf is made up of a multitude of floating homes and restaurants all of which are uniquely designed and decorated. It is such an awesome place and there is a cacophony of colours on display here.

Most of the homes actually have people living in them full time and you can see them sitting on their porches soaking in the sun. If you are lucky, you may also see some of the local seals who like to swim right up to the wharf to get a look at all of the tourists walking by.

A few of the floating homes have been converted into food kiosks and offer everything from fish and chips to sushi.

5 . Explore Chinatown and Fan Tan Alley

Although Victoria’s Chinatown is quite small, it is not to be missed. This neighbourhood in Victoria is Canada’s oldest Chinatown and offers some amazing restaurants, lots of boutique shops and some beautiful architecture.

The hidden gem of Chinatown is Fan Tan Alley which is one of Canada’s narrowest streets. The small, red brick alley is extremely picturesque and there are several boutique shops located along the alley. Our personal favourite place in Fan Tan Alley is Kid Sister ice cream shop which does the best home-made ice cream we have ever had. Try the salted caramel and thank us later!

6. Beacon Hill Park

Just a few minutes’ walk from the inner harbour will take you to Beacon Hill Park. This vast expanse of greenery is a fantastic getaway from the hustle and bustle of city life. There are several charming gardens, sports pitches, endless green space and it is also home to what was once the tallest totem pole in the world.

7. Visit Craft Breweries

Victoria is home to many excellent craft breweries and we made sure to test them all out for you. The majority of them are situated quite close to the city centre, just north of downtown.

We recommend actually renting a bike or taking a tour to all the different breweries to sample the local goods. Our personal favourite is Phillips Brewing , which is a west coast favourite. They have a great tasting room, light snacks and an awesome atmosphere.

Keen to try a brewery tour? Join fellow beer lovers on this  craft brewery tour around Victoria .

8. Hike Mount Douglas

A short ascent will take you to the top of Mount Douglas. From here you will get the most stunning 360 degree views of the city and all the surrounding landscapes. The views are incredible and you can see for miles in every direction, including out over the water.

Quick tip: If you’re pressed for time, or if you are feeling lazy you can actually drive all the way to the top of Mount Douglas.

Download your FREE day hike packing list here!

9 . Willows Beach

As Victoria is situated right on the water, there are several beaches which you can enjoy. One of our favourites is Willows Beach in Oak Bay which has plenty of sand for you to relax on and the water is always nice and calm, making it ideal for a swim. Beware though, even in the midst of summer when the temperatures are high, the water is still quite chilly.

It is also worth walking along Oak Bay Avenue as there are some great boutique shops and restaurants in what is one of Victoria’s nicest neighbourhoods.

10. Mystic Beach

To discover some of the more rural and rugged areas of the coastline, head west along the coast to Mystic Beach . The drive out here is awesome and be sure to keep an eye out for black bears as they are not uncommon in the area.

Mystic Beach is located along the shores of the Juan de Fuca Strait and is one of the most scenic beaches on Vancouver Island. From the parking lot it is around a 30-minute walk along a trail through the trees to reach the beach. The beach is beautiful and feels completely isolated from the outside world with tall trees running along the shoreline.

As you walk further along the beach you will come across a small waterfall flowing from the rock high above down onto the beach and into the sea. It is a stunning beach and definitely worth the trip out here. If you do make this trip then we also recommend checking out Sombrio Beach which is nearby.

11. Goldstream Provincial Park

On the outskirts of the city is Goldstream Provincial Park which is great to get away for a night of camping or simply to enjoy a few hours out of the city surrounded by nature. Our favourite part of the park is the Goldstream Trestle which is a short but steep climb from the carpark. At the top of the short hike you will find an old wooden trestle bridge that used to be an old train line. The scenery up here is amazing and the trestle bridge is awesome.

If you are visiting during the fall season, it is also a great time to visit as you can witness the annual salmon run. This is when thousands of salmon return home and battle their way upstream to lay their eggs. From the banks of the river you get an awesome view of the fish and this amazing display of animal instincts and Mother Nature.

12. East Sooke Park

Another awesome activity just outside the city is exploring East Sooke Park. The park has a long stretch of rugged coastline, incredible walking and hiking trails, lush fields, an old growth forest and some beautiful beaches dotted along the way.

Some of the beaches have impressive white sand and clear blue water that you would associate more with the Philippines than with Canada, but don’t let the tropical colours fool you. The water will be cold all year round.

13. High Tea at The Empress

The Fairmont Empress is an iconic building located right in the inner harbour of Victoria. A visit to the famed tea room at the grandiose hotel has become almost synonymous with a trip to Victoria and is high on most people’s bucket list.

They also distil their own Empress gin which is a local favourite and is purple in colour. What is really cool is that it also changes colour depending on what you mix it with and the bartenders here will be happy to mix you up a special drink using the famous Empress gin.

14. Enjoy the Local Cuisine

Victoria has an amazing food scene and has options for every type of taste. One of the most popular places to eat here is Red Fish Blue Fish which can be found in a shipping container down on the docks. The food is delicious and the fish tacos are what they are renowned for. As this is such a popular spot be prepared to wait in line for a while. Luckily the food is worth the wait.

Another of Victoria’s famous eateries is Jam Café which serves the best brunch in the city and probably on the whole island. Much like Red Fish Blue Fish you will need to be prepared to wait in line for quite a while to get a table here.

If you don’t fancy waiting in line check out our other recommendations for Victoria’s best brunch !

15. Go for Patio Beers

There are few better ways to end the day than watching the sun go down on a patio with an ice cold beer. Victoria has loads of awesome patios and our two top picks are Canoe Brewpub and the Local.

Canoe Brewpub is right on the water and has a huge patio with a great atmosphere. The Local is a more intimate patio on the edge of the inner harbour and it is one of our top picks because of all of the flowers they have hanging around the patio creating an amazing array of colours.

Final Thoughts

Victoria is such a picturesque city with plenty of character. It’s easy to spend a few days exploring the city and its surroundings. There are lots of awesome things to do in Victoria, it has a great local food scene and the West Coast island vibes make for an incredible trip.

Been to Victoria before? Let us know in the comments your favourite thing to do while you’re here.

Planning a trip to Vancouver Island? Check out our other blog posts on the area:

• MYSTIC BEACH CAMPING | Ultimate Guide
• SOMBRIO BEACH WATERFALL
• BEST BRUNCH IN VICTORIA, BC
• THINGS TO DO ON VANCOUVER ISLAND
• NANAIMO TO TOFINO DRIVE | Epic Roadtrip
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Hi, we’re Luke and Roxy, a couple of adventurers that are head over heels in love with British Columbia, Canada.

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20 Things to do in Victoria, Canada

01/30/2024 By Traveling Canucks 1 Comment Categories: British Columbia Canada Sightseeing Travel Tips Vancouver Vancouver Island Victoria

Victoria might just be the most charming capital in Canada

Located on the southern tip of Vancouver Island , the city of Victoria is one of the oldest cities in the Pacific Northwest. Today, we’d like to share some of our favourite things to do in Victoria with you.

It’s no surprise we have a soft spot for Victoria. This is the place where we met over 20 years ago. It’s where our story began. For this reason, we try to visit at least once a year. 

Victoria is located only 100 kilometres (62 miles) from both Vancouver BC and Seattle WA, making it the perfect weekend getaway for tourists and residents who live on the mainland.

That said, don’t make the mistake of thinking you can properly do Victoria in one day (unless you take a float plane from Vancouver to Victoria). We recommend you spend at least two days in Victoria, preferably three days if your itinerary allows it.

The Best Things to do in Victoria, BC

Table of Contents

Skip ahead using the Table of Contents above.

1. See Orca Whales on a Whale Watching Tour

Vancouver Island is home to some of the best whale watching in Canada. The best place to spot orcas in their natural habitat is the Salish Sea and Strait of Juan de Fuca . Whales, sea birds and other marine animals are attracted to the area to feed, resulting in a 95% success rate on whale watching tours.

While it is possible to see whales any time of the year, the peak Victoria whale watching season is in the summer months, from May to October during the salmon migration.

Victoria whale watching tours depart from the Inner Harbour. Tours depart several times per day. We went on a tour with Prince of Whales and would recommend them. You can book whale watching tours online ahead of time or simply show up and jump on the next departing boat. 

We hit the jackpot on our tour and spotted over 25 orca whales ! We could not have scripted a better whale watching experience. The water was calm, the sun was shining, and we witnessed a super pod. 

Book your Victoria whale watching tour here . Or join a zodiac tour here .

2. Take a Victoria Horse Carriage Tour 

A unique way to discover this historical city is by horse-drawn carriage. The relaxing and informative horse-drawn carriage tours allow visitors to see the city’s attractions in style. Tours travel through old residential neighbourhoods, scenic waterfront roads and the second oldest Chinatown in North America.

If you’re in the mood to turn up the romance, most operators allow you to open a bottle of champagne or wine while you tour the city by night.

We recommend using Victoria Carriage Tours . The horse carriage will pick you up directly from your hotel or restaurant. You can also organize your trip directly from the horse carriage operators, located beside the British Columbia Parliament Buildings. 

Tours range from 30 minutes to an 1.5 hours.

Book your Victoria horse carriage tour here .

3. Ride a Harbour Ferry around Inner Harbour

A fun way to get around Victoria’s Inner Harbour is to take a small Harbour Ferry. The little ferries depart from various points around the harbour, so you can bounce around the harbour and turn this convenient mode of transportation into a mini boat cruise. 

Stop at Spinnakers Gastro Brewpub and grab a refreshing pint of local craft beer. Or, visit the colourful Fisherman’s Wharf and check out Barb’s Fish and Chips .

Tickets for the Victoria Harbour Ferry can be purchased as a Harbour Tour  ($30), Gorge Cruise ($30) or one-way fares starting from $7.00 per person.

Look for the ‘Ferry Stop’ signs at major waterfront locations around the harbour.

4. British Columbia Parliament Buildings

The iconic British Columbia Parliament Buildings are one of the star attractions in Victoria’s Inner Harbour. The architectural style of these buildings has been described as a blend of Neo-baroque and Romanesque. 

Construction of the Parliament Buildings began in 1893 and they were officially opened in 1898. Other notable landmarks on the grounds are the Cenotaph (bronze War Memorial to the Unknown Soldier), Queen Victoria Statue, Douglas Obelisk, Knowledge Totem Pole, Speak Chair, Front Fountain and the Premier’s Rose Garden.

Visitors have the option to explore the inside of the BC Parliament Buildings. Door are open to the public Monday to Friday, between the hours of 8:30 am to 5:00 pm.

You can join a regularly-scheduled guided tours or explore the buildings on you own. Guided tours are free and last approx. 30 minutes. 

Related –  The Best Road Trip from Vancouver for first timers

The above photo is the fountain at the back of the BC Parliament Buildings.

Find deals on Victoria hotels using Booking.com or Hotels.com

5. Bike ride along Dallas Road 

Visitors to Victoria will find that most of its famous landmarks and tourist attractions are within walking distance to the BC Parliament Buildings and Inner Harbour.

To see what’s beyond the downtown core, rent a bike and cruise down Dallas Road to Beacon Hill Park, Clover Point Park and Ross Bay. The ocean views on Dallas Road are incredible, especially at sunset.

Start your bike ride in the residential area of James Bay. It’s a quiet area with some of the most beautiful heritage homes on Vancouver Island. James Bay’s claim to fame is that it’s said to be the oldest neighbourhood on the West coast of North America that’s north of San Francisco. Say that ten times fast.

After a brief stop at Fisherman’s Wharf, continue riding south on Dallas Road towards Ogden Point (the big pier where the cruise ships dock). Continue along the waterfront road towards Beacon Hill Park . You can ride your bike around the park or continue to Ross Bay and Gonzales Beach.

If bike riding is not your thing, you can also walk on the Dallas Road Waterfront Trail and visit Holland Point Park, Fonyon Beach, Finlayson Point and Spiral Beach.

6. Visit the Royal BC Museum and IMAX

Located between the Empress Hotel and the BC Parliament Buildings, the Royal BC Museum specializes in British Columbia’s human and natural history. 

The elaborate galleries offer different environments, making it a great museum for all ages and preferences. There is a First Peoples Gallery, Modern History Gallery, Natural History Gallery and different traveling exhibitions. Our favourites are the life size woolly mammoth and the incredible collection of totem poles.

Plan to spend at least 3 hours at the museum, especially if you want to catch an IMAX film.

Royal BC Museum Hours of Operation here . 

While you’re in the neighbourhood, check out Thunderbird Park, located directly beside the Royal British Columbia Museum. Thunderbird Park is home to many totem poles and First Nation monuments.

7. Explore Beacon Hill Park in Victoria

Located along the shore of the Juan de Fuca Strait, Beacon Hill Park is the largest and most treasured park in Victoria. The 200 acre park is within walking distance to most downtown Victoria hotels, so it’s easily accessed by foot or bike. 

There are plenty of things to do in Beacon Hill Park , including a walk through its beautifully manicured gardens and weeping willows at Goodacre Lake, feed the goats at the Beacon Hill Children’s Farm , photograph the peculiar Moss Lady sculpture and admire the world’s tallest free-standing totem pole.

You can access the Dallas Road Waterfront Trail from Beacon Hill Park. Walk towards Finlayson Point and search for little crabs on the rocky beaches. Have a seat on some driftwood and scan the ocean horizon for breaching whales and marine wildlife.

Take a deep breath and soak up those stunning Pacific Northwest views! 

8. Play Beach Volleyball on a Rooftop Bar

Have you played beach volleyball on the rooftop of a restaurant in the city? We’re guessing you haven’t because the Rooftop Patio  at the Strathcona is home to the world’s only rooftop beach volleyball courts.

We fondly remember our university days drinking pints with classmates and playing beach volleyball on the Strathcona rooftop. If you’ve got the time and desire, we recommend you give it a try!

If beach volleyball is not your thing, enjoy a pint at the Sticky Wicket or Big Bad John’s, one of Victoria’s best dive bars. The Strathcona has been a downtown Victoria landmark with roots dating back to the gold rush era in the early 1900’s.

With 7 venues, 5 levels, 5 diverse restaurants and 1,200+ seats, this is the perfect place to unwind after a day of sightseeing. 

9. Hatley Park National Historic Site

Located in Colwood, about 20 minutes west of Victoria, the Hatley Park Historical Site is home to Hatley Castle (pictured above) and beautiful gardens, including the Japanese Garden and Rose Garden. 

Since 1995, the mansion and estate have been used for Royal Roads University , which is where Cameron went to university (more on that story here ).

You can take a tour of the castle and gardens, wander around the university grounds, hike through the forest and snap a photo with one of the resident peacocks (just don’t get too close, a few of them have tempers).

Hatley Castle has been featured in many blockbuster movies, including X-Men 2, X-Men: Last Stand, Deadpool, and Arrow. See the list of movies filmed at Hatley Castle here .

10. Fort Rodd Hill & Fisgard Lighthouse

After visiting Hatley Park National Historic Site, check out nearby Fort Rodd Hill and Fisgard Lighthouse Historical Site , the first lighthouse on Canada’s west coast that is still in operation.

The Fort Rodd Hill National Historic Site allows visitors to see the 100-year-old coastal gun batteries, camouflaged searchlight emplacements, command posts, guardhouses and barracks.

These two national historic sites in Victoria are located on the same site. 

11. Walk the Inner Harbour Pathways

Victoria’s picturesque inner harbour is one of victoria’s most celebrated landmarks and attractions..

It’s often labelled as one of the most beautiful harbours in the world. We agree.

The most popular section of Victoria’s Inner Harbour is the marina in front of the Fairmont Empress and British Columbia Parliament Buildings (picture above). In the summer, this esplanade is filled with merchants, artists, street performers and food trucks.

Although the promenade in front of the Empress Hotel is the most popular, there are several pathways around the Inner Harbour, including the David Foster Harbour Pathway and Songhees Walkway . These pathways are the perfect place to watch the float planes take off and land on the bustling harbour.  

To get the this waterfront path, cross the new Johnson Street Bridge and pass the Delta Ocean Pointe Resort . The 3 km trail is flat and paved, so it’s fine for baby strollers, wheelchairs and bikes. 

Views of Victoria Inner Harbour on the waterfront Songhees Walkway.

The old Johnson Street Bridge in the distance. It was replaced in 2015.

12. Go on a Brewery Pub Crawl

Downtown Victoria is the perfect location for a brewery pub crawl. Victoria is very walkable and many of the brewpubs, bars and micro-breweries are located within walking distance to each other.  

Our favourite brewpubs and breweries in Victoria 

• Spinnakers Gastro Brewpub
• Swans Brewery and Pub (pictured above) 
• Irish Times Pub
• Bard & Banker
• CANOE Brewpub
• Driftwood Brewery
• Vancouver Island Brewing
• Phillips Brewing Tasting Room
• Hoyne Brewing Company

If you’ve got the stamina, you can visit all of the above breweries and brewpubs by foot. They are located within about a 2-3 km radius. 

Here’s an interactive Victoria map with hotels, restaurants and attractions. If you prefer a guided tour look here or here .

Spinnakers Brewery is a long time favourite of ours. It’s located on Songhees Walkway.

Above is a flight of beer at Irish Times pub in Victoria. 

13. Craigdarroch Castle 

The Victorian-era Craigdarroch Castle is another National Historic Site in Victoria. Built in 1890 by a wealthy coal baron, during the reign of Queen Victoria, this fairy-tale castle has over 20,000 square feet of interior space. Learn more about this history of the castle here .

Ticket price to enter Craigdarroch Castle here . 

Craigdarroch Castle hours of operation are from 10:00 AM to 4:30 PM daily.

14. Visit the Victoria Bug Zoo 

If you’re travelling to Victoria with kids, consider a short visit to the Victoria Bug Zoo , also known as the Bug Museum. It’s a two-room mini-zoo located in downtown Victoria, one block north of the Fairmont Empress Hotel.

The zoo creates an opportunity for you to view and experience live tropical bugs from around the world. It has approx. 50 different species, including giant walking sticks, praying mantis, glow-in-the-dark scorpions, hairy tarantulas, and Canada’s largest ant colony.

Victoria Bug Zoo hours of operation and rates can be found here .

15. feel huge at miniature world victoria.

After you visit the Victoria Bug Zoo, walk one block south and check out Miniature World, one of the most popular tourist attractions in downtown Victoria.

Miniature World is trademarked at “The Greatest Little Show On Earth!” It has over 85 miniature dioramas and displays, including the World’s Smallest Operational Sawmill and one of the longest model railways. 

Miniature World hours of operation and rates can be found here .

16. the maritime museum of british columbia.

After your visit to Miniature World, cross the street and visit the Maritime Museum of British Columbia. Here you will find historical objects, art, photos & models showcasing the maritime history of the Pacific Northwest.

Maritime Museum of British Columbia hours of operation here .

17. Squeeze through Fan Tan Alley in Chinatown

Chinatown Victoria is the oldest Chinatown in Canada and the second oldest in North America, after San Francisco. You’ll want to start your visit to Chinatown at the Gate of Harmonious Interest , an ornately decorated arch at the entrance to Chinatown, located on Fisgard Street. 

Fan Tan Alley is a popular Chinatown tourist attraction.

Once home to brothels and opium dens, Fan Tan Alley is named after the Chinese gambling game Fan-Tan .

Today, its home to more than a dozen locally owned shops selling everything from vintage records to hand-crafted jewelry to organic treats. 

Fan Tan Alley’s modern day claim to fame is that it’s said to be the narrowest street in Canada. We love the unique architecture and red brick buildings that line this historical alley. 

The Gate of Harmonious Interest in Victoria’s Chinatown.

18. Fisherman’s Wharf 

Victoria’s Fisherman’s Wharf is a fun place to spend an hour or two. Enjoy Barb’s famous fish and chips on the pier and watch the playful seals swim around the colourful floating village. 

You will find a variety of shops and food kiosks at the pier, including freshly caught seafood, ice cream and milkshakes, sweet mini donuts, pizza and authentic Mexican cuisine. 

Fisherman’s Wharf is best reached via an Inner Harbour water taxi (see point #3). You can also walk or ride bikes along the the scenic Harbour Pathway. It’s an easy 15 minute walk from the BC Parliament Buildings to the Fisherman’s Wharf. 

While it may be tempting, DO NOT FEED seals or marine wildlife.

Many travel sites will recommend feeding the seals, but it’s now banned by the Greater Victoria Harbour Authority . A scary incident happened with a seal that was fed at the Steveston dock in Richmond, BC. Watch the seal attack video here .

Barb’s famous fish and chips on the pier at Fisherman’s Wharf.

19. Smell the roses at The Butchart Gardens

The Butchart Gardens has become one of Victoria’s most visited tourist attractions with over 1 million visitors per year. Once a limestone quarry, these beautiful gardens have now been designated a National Historic Site of Canada .

The Butchart Gardens are located 30 minutes drive north of Downtown Victoria. More info on how to get to Butchart Gardens here .

If you do not have a vehicle you can join an organized tour that runs daily trips from Downtown Victoria to Butchart Gardens. 

Butchart Gardens hours of operation for summer are 8:45 AM to 9:00 PM. Christmas hours of operation are 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM. These times are subject to change. Visit website for up-to-date hours .  

Here’s an interactive map of Butchart Gardens.

You can join a Butchart Gardens tour here .

20. Goldstream Provincial Park

Goldstream Provincial Park is located only 16 km north of Victoria yet it feels far removed from the urban sprawl of downtown Victoria. The park is home to several hiking trails for all levels, ranging from an easy forest walk to the more challenging Mount Finlayson trail to the highest point in Greater Victoria . 

Goldstream Park is known for the annual salmon runs in the Goldstream River that happen in the fall. Hundreds of bald eagles congregate to the park to feed on the dead salmon. Read more about this impressive natural phenomenon here .

This park is also home to Niagara Falls.

Not the Niagara Falls in Southern Ontario. A smaller version that flows from Niagara Creek and drops 48 meters. The waterfall can be reached via a short 1.3 km round-trip hike (more info here ).

The other waterfall, Goldstream Falls , is located in the southwest corner of the park, near the campground.

Another popular hike is the Goldstream Railway Trestle Bridge . The 3 km hike takes about 2 hours round trip. Although it may be tempting, do NOT walk on the trestle bridge. There are no safety sidings and spacing between beams is inconsistent and can be quite slippery.

Parking at Goldstream Park can be chaotic on the weekends. To avoid the crowds, plan to arrive before 10:00 AM in the morning or after 3:00 in the afternoon. 

This Goldstream Park map shows the hiking trails, parking lots and campgrounds. The Goldstream Park campground fill up fast, so you’re best to make reservations well in advance.

Where to stay in Victoria?

We’ve stayed at the Magnolia Hotel , Victoria Ocean Pointe Resort , Fairmont Empress and Best Western Carlton Plaza and recommend them all. They are centrally located and family friendly.

Other family friendly hotels in Victoria:

• Days Inn by Wyndham Victoria Uptown
• DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel & Suites Victoria
• Inn at Laurel Point
• Best Western Plus Inner Harbour

Search for last minute deals on Victoria hotels using Booking.com or Hotels.com

There is an increasing supply of short term apartment rentals in Victoria. Staying in a furnished apartment is convenient and affordable, especially if you’re traveling with a large family. Search for Victoria apartment rentals here .

The stunning Victoria Fairmont Empress hotel is recognized by National Geographic Traveler magazine as one of the most Iconic Hotels in the World . 

Where to eat in Victoria?

You will not go hungry in Victoria. There are endless options for every type of cuisine. Being on the west coast, we’d recommend you dine at a seafood restaurant. The west coast is also known for quality sushi and Japanese cuisine.

• Fresh oysters and share plates at  10 Acres Commons
• Fancy tacos at Tacofino  
• Waterfront views at LURE Restaurant & Bar or Flying Otter Grill
• Popular Brew pubs –  Spinnakers ,  Swans Brewpub  and  CRAFT beer market
• Other favourites –  Bard & Banker , Nautical Nellies and Irish Times

How to get to Victoria from Vancouver

Most people will catch the ferry that  departs from Tsawwassen BC Ferries Terminal (and vice versa). You can also catch a bus from downtown Vancouver that will drop you off in downtown Victoria (ticket includes the ferry crossing).

Plan to arrive at the ferry terminal at least one hour before your departure time. It’s wise to book a reservation ahead of time because it can get quite busy over a holiday weekend. If you miss the ferry it will be at least 2 hours before the next one.

The ferry will take about 4 hours, including drive time and wait time before boarding the ferry.

Each ferry crossing from Vancouver to Victoria will take about 1.5 hours. The drive from Vancouver to the Tsawwassen Ferry Terminal takes about 45 minutes, depending on traffic. The drive from the Swartz Bay Ferry Terminal to downtown Victoria takes about 30 minutes. 

You can also take a float plane or Helijet from downtown Vancouver. If you’ve only got one day to spend in Victoria, the float plane or helicopter is the fastest and most convenient option. 

Have you visited the city of Victoria?

Share your recommendations for things to do in Victoria in the comments section below.

Read more posts from British Columbia:

• 25 Awesome Day Trips from Vancouver
• 25 FREE Things to do in Vancouver
• Best Things to do Along the Sea to Sky Highway
• 15 Things to do in Squamish this summer
• Why you should visit Telegraph Cove on Vancouver Island

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04/04/2021 at 9:08 am

Enjoyed your post on Victoria often visited hoping to return asap

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27 Best Things to Do in Victoria

With its mild, sunny climate and world-class attractions, there’s no shortage of things to do in Victoria.

The city’s colonial charm, incredible foodie culture, and stunning scenic beauty combine to create the ultimate weekend escape from Vancouver.

So, join this former Victoria resident for a deeper look at the top Victoria BC activities.

Best Things to Do in Victoria

Embark on a victoria whale watching tour.

As much as we love the whale watching tours in Vancouver , I have to admit that Victoria might be the best city in British Columbia for whale watching.

You can choose from a wide variety of Victoria whale watching tours that depart from the Inner Harbour or Fisherman’s Wharf. And unlike in Vancouver, you’re just a short run from the grounds.

Each tour allows you to see a variety of whales, including orcas, humpbacks, and gray whales. You’ll likely even spot some dolphins, seals and sea lions.

Book Your Victoria Whale Watching Tour Now   

Tour Historic Craigdarroch Castle

Craigdarroch Castle is a historic castle built in the late 19th century by wealthy coal baron Robert Dunsmuir, and it features a Victorian-style design .

Located just outside downtown, the castle is open for tours , which allow you to explore the building’s many rooms and learn its history.

Today, the castle is now a national historic site . And its complete restoration provides visitors with a quick glimpse into the privileged life of colonialists in the 1890s.

Visit the Enchanting Oasis that is Butchart Gardens

Butchart Gardens is unquestionably the area’s most popular tourist attraction. So naturally, it is right at the top of our list of places to visit in Victoria.

This world-renowned botanical garden features over 55 acres of stunning floral displays, making it a must-see for any nature lover. This urban oasis’s lush greens and colourful blooms attract over one million people a year. 

The gardens are in full bloom during late spring and summer. But don’t worry—this National Historic site remains popular year-round—even during Christmas.

Visit Butchart Gardens Now

Have Afternoon Tea at the Empress Hotel

Want to immerse yourself in Victoria’s unique colonial charm ? Afternoon tea at the Empress is the best way to do it.

At Victoria’s most iconic building, you’ll enjoy the hotel’s famous flakey scones and scrumptious pastries alongside loose-leaf tea served in royal china by Queen Elizabeth in 1939. For true decadence, finish up with a glass of Veuve Clicquot Rose.

This stately ritual has been one of the top things to do in Victoria for 114 years and counting – and it’s the ultimate in vacation pampering .

Take a Leisurely Stroll through Beacon Hill Park

Beacon Hill Park is a 150-acre park in the heart of the Inner Harbour . This scenic spot offers stunning views of the Olympic Mountains and the Strait of Juan de Fuca, making it a great place for a leisurely stroll or a vigorous bike ride.

This ocean-front park also features a number of historical monuments, like the world’s 4th tallest totem pole (127 feet) carved by Kwakwaka’wakw craftsman Mungo Martin.

Undoubtedly, Beacon Hill Park is one of the best places to visit in Victoria for a little quiet contemplation.

Take a Victoria Hop on Hop off Tour

Looking for a quick way to check off all the items on your Victoria clipboard of fun? Then I’d suggest checking out the entire city on a Victoria Hop on Hop off bus tour .

For one low price, you’ll ride a UK-style double-decker bus to 15 of the best Victoria tourist attractions. And the best part? You can jump off wherever you’d like to form your own customized itinerary.

This tour is one of the top Victoria activities for families, the elderly or hurried cruise passengers.

Book a Victoria HoHo Bus Tour Now

Savour a Bite at Local Victoria Restaurants

This charming harbour city is home to the second-highest concentration of restaurants in North America. So, if you’re looking for fun things to do in Victoria, a foodie crawl should be at the top of your list.

For a unique dining experience, I like to recommend 10 Acres Bistro . This local farm-to-fork restaurant shows off the best of ethically raised local ingredients directly from their own farm.

For something more casual, fish and chips are popular choices for visitors strolling the city. For a modern take on this traditional favourite, I like to hit up wharf-side Redfish Bluefish .

Take a Seaplane Tour of the Coast

If you’re looking to take your holiday or special occasion day to a whole new level, then Victoria seaplane tours are quite literally the way to do it.

This 30-minute sightseeing flight offers an unparalleled birds-eye view of the Parliament Buildings, Empress Hotel, Inner Harbour, Olympic Mountains, and Strait of Juan de Fuca.

Even better, your tour is aboard the world’s first carbon-neutral airline. You’ll also receive a convenient hotel shuttle for a true door-to-air experience.

Take Off On A Victoria Seaplane Tour Now

Paddle Around the Inner Harbour

The Garden City is essentially one giant peninsula made up of the Inner Harbour and the Gorge Waterway.  Expect a series of small bays offering protected waters to be explored during the Summer months.

Add in the area’s mild climate and abundant wildlife, and you have the recipe for a killer afternoon. On a summer day, going for a paddle is one of the best Victoria activities for active travellers .

The result? A SUPing and kayaking paradise—you can rent right downtown with Victoria Kayak. Prefer a guided option? A variety of Victoria Kayaking Tours are also available.

Visit a Tropical Oasis at Victoria Butterfly Gardens

Located next to Butchart Gardens, the Victoria Butterfly Gardens is one of the best places for families to visit in Victoria BC.

As its name suggests, this tropical garden is home to over 500 butterflies . However, it also contains thousands of tropical birds, reptiles, turtles and plants.

The gardens also have several educational exhibits , so they’re the perfect place for your children to learn more about these amazing creatures.

Visit the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria

This world-renowned gallery features a collection of over 16,000 works of art , from paintings and sculptures to textiles and photographs.

Notably, the Greater Victoria Art Gallery hosts the largest collections from venerated BC artist Emily Carr .

You’ll also find one of the largest collections of Asian art in Canada, including a large Japanese-style Shinto shrine . The gallery also offers a variety of educational programs.

So, if you’re artistically inclined, the AGGV is easily one of the top attractions in Victoria, BC.

Head out to Goldstream Provincial Park

A visit to Goldstream Provincial Park is one of the best outdoor activities in Victoria, BC, for visitors. Particularly those who’re looking for hiking and biking trails .

Find yourself in town between October and December? You can witness one of the highest concentrations of bald eagles anywhere in North America as these majestic creatures return to feast on spawning chum salmon.

Located 16 km northwest of the city, the park is also a great place for camping if you’re dying to spend a night or two under the stars. And there is even a beautiful waterfall!

Watch the Sunset from Dallas Road

Dallas Road Waterfront Trail is one of the best places to watch the sunset in Victoria.

This seaside route offers stunning views of the Strait of Juan de Fuca and the Olympic Mountains. Stretching from Clover to Ogden Point, there is a seemingly endless selection of isolated spots to watch the sunset over the Pacific.

For this reason, it’s one of the best things to do in Victoria for couples. Make sure to head there during golden hour—you’ll thank me later.

Sample Victoria’s Craft Breweries

Victoria may be the most important stop on BC’s Ale Trail . There are so many great breweries that it has even been dubbed ‘Canada’s craft beer capital.’

The legendary Spinaker’s Brewpub  in West Victoria comes highly recommended. Need more variety? Then head to the 328 Taphouse with its 40 local taps.

Cider lovers willing to venture to Saanichton will also love the Sea Cider Farm & Ciderhouse . That said, my personal favourite is Hoyne Brewing , with its award-winning local beers.  

Take Me on a Victoria Craft Beer Tour

Visit the British Columbia Parliament Buildings

It sounds almost strange to say, but if you love politics, this is hands down one of the best places to visit in Victoria.

These historic buildings house the Legislative Assembly of British Columbia and several other government offices.

The buildings are open for tours, which allow you to explore the chambers and learn about their history. But most locals prefer to use the grounds as a picnic spot due to their fantastic location at the heart of the Inner Harbour.

Check Out the Fort Rodd Hill National Historic Site

Located just outside Victoria in the suburb of Colwood, Fort Rodd Hill is a National Historic Site that was formerly a fort that defended the city from a potential American attack (hard to believe, I know).

Today, this National Historic site allows visitors to tour historic battlements , weapons depots, and other displays.

Fort Rodd Hill is also right next to the Fisgard Lighthouse and Hatley Park, two more National Historic Sites, so you’ll get extra bang for your buck.

Hatley Park Castle / Gardens

Hatley Park has several glorious gardens that are based on international themes (Japanese, Italian, etc). The grounds also contain the beautiful Hatley Park Castle , pictured above. This building is also home to the campus of Royal Roads University.

The park also has several trails, so it’s the perfect place for a walk or a bike ride.

Furthermore, it leads down toward Esquimalt Lagoon, which houses one of Victoria’s nicest beaches.

Cool Off in Sooke Potholes 

Sooke Potholes Provincial Park is one of the best things to do near Victoria for outdoor lovers , especially those who don’t mind getting wet.

The potholes are about an hour West of Victoria near the town of Sooke. This park is home to a number of hiking and biking trails , as well as a beautiful river. 

The area’s unique rock formations  were sculpted during the last ice age. Their characteristically crystal-clear pools are a terrific place to cool off in the summer heat.

Explore Victoria by Bike

BC’s capital city is renowned for its incredibly high bike participation rate. With its seemingly never-ending network of urban bike lanes and trails, the area is a true biker’s paradise .

Whether you’re looking to explore the City Centre, encircle the stunning Seaside Loop or do some hard-core mountain biking, the area is assured to satisfy anyone travelling on two wheels.

You can go it solo and rent your own bike. Or, you can opt for a guided group bike tour by using the button below.

Take Me on a Victoria Bike Tour

Wander Through Canada’s Oldest Chinatown

Located on the Northern edge of downtown Victoria, this historic enclave of Chinese culture dates back to the mid-1800s after gold was discovered in BC’s Fraser Canyon.

The area’s beating heart is the quaint Fan Tan Alley , which is the narrowest street in Canada . Formerly chocked full of gambling and opium dens, it now houses a variety of shops, galleries and cafes catering to the tourist crowd. 

Today, the area houses a diverse mix of artists, restauranteurs, and bar owners. Overall, Chinatown has become one of the top attractions in Victoria for visitors of all ages.

Best Things to Do in Victoria FAQs

What is victoria bc most known for.

The city of Victoria, BC, is most famous for its quaint small-town charm and stunning colonial architecture. It is also a great starting point to explore the stunning beauty of Vancouver Island. And in recent years, has become renowned for its vibrant restaurant, bar, and craft beer scenes.

What are the best things to do in Victoria?

Victoria offers a wide range of attractions and activities. Some of the best things to do in Victoria include exploring the Inner Harbour, visiting the Butchart Gardens, exploring historic sites like Craigdarroch Castle, enjoying whale watching tours, and indulging in high tea at the Fairmont Empress Hotel.

What are the best things to do in Victoria for families?

Victoria offers a variety of family-friendly activities that cater to all ages. Kids are sure to enjoy a trip to Victoria attractions such as Butterfly Gardens, Miniature World, and the Victoria Bug Zoo. If you’re looking for fresh air, Beacon Hill Park, Butchart Gardens, and the local beaches will do the trick.

How can I get to Victoria from Vancouver?

There are a few transportation options to get from Vancouver to Victoria. The most popular and convenient way is to ferry from Tsawwassen Ferry Terminal to Swartz Bay Terminal. Alternatively, you can take the Vancouver to Victoria Bus. Or even jump on a seaplane from Vancouver’s Coal Harbour .

Still Wondering What to Do in Victoria?

So there you have it. Whether you’re headed out whale watching, visiting Butchart Gardens, or chowing down on local food, your itinerary should be loaded with activities.

That said, if you need any additional tips, I’m still here for you in the comments below.

I hope you’ve enjoyed our summary of the best things to do in Victoria. Now it’s up to you to get out and do them!

Safe travels⛴️

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12 Best Things to Do in Victoria, BC

By Alex Schultz · Last updated on May 4, 2024

Victoria, the capital city of British Columbia, is set right at the southern tip of Vancouver Island. Thanks to its mild climate and wealth of things to do in Victoria, it is a very popular tourist destination with both Canadians and international travelers alike.

As it boasts an abundance of parks and lovely green spaces, Victoria is fittingly known as the ‘Garden City’. While it certainly has a charming coastline and beaches to explore, as well as a scenic waterfront, the city is also dotted with interesting museums and historic tourist attractions with some attractive architecture on show.

With whale watching tours, sightseeing cruises and ferry rides also on offer, lively yet laidback Victoria is well worth visiting if you have the chance.

12. Abkhazi Garden

A very peaceful and picturesque place, Abkhazi Garden is set just a short drive to the southeast of downtown Victoria. Here you’ll find an exquisite heritage house, as well as lovely grounds and gardens to wander around.

The property is named for the Prince and Princess Abkhazi who lived here and began creating the landscaped garden with all its diverse fauna and fabulous vistas in 1946.

In addition to ambling peacefully about its paths and taking in all the natural beauty, visitors can enjoy tasty treats in the teahouse. Due to its scenic nature, Abkhazi Garden hosts weddings and private events during the year.

11. Chinatown

The oldest Chinatown in Canada, this vibrant part of Victoria with all of its bustling businesses and busy restaurants, is located in the heart of the city. As well as having countless shops to browse and dozens of delicious dishes to try, the area also boasts attractive architecture and was designated a National Historic Site in 1995.

Following the discovery of gold in Fraser Canyon in 1858, thousands of miners, many of them Chinese, migrated from California to British Columbia and set up home. Initially just a collection of wooden huts, Victoria’s Chinatown is now dotted with such sights, as the ornate Gate of Harmonious Interest and Tam Kung Temple, as well as the narrow and atmospheric Fan Tan Alley.

10. Victoria Bug Zoo

Just a short stroll from Chinatown is one of the city’s most unusual, yet oddly alluring, attractions; the Victoria Bug Zoo. Packed into its two rooms are around fifty fascinating species with exhibits and knowledgeable tour guides on hand to teach you all about its insects.

Since opening its doors in 1997 the mini zoo has educated and amazed people in equal measure with its wonderful world of bugs. As well as walking sticks and praying mantises, it has leafcutter ants, tarantulas, and glow-in-the-dark scorpions. Each insect or arachnid is more impressive than the last!

Besides teaching you everything there is to know about insects, the zoo’s enthusiastic guides often take beetles and bugs out of their tanks so you can get a closer look.

9. Goldstream Provincial Park

Just twenty minutes’ drive to the northwest of town is the Goldstream Provincial Park, which is sure to delight both nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. The park has huge swathes of temperate rainforest and tantalizing hiking trails, with beautiful scenery and nature wherever you look.

Founded in 1958, the picturesque park and its diverse landscapes are dotted with thick cedars and fir trees which conceal some spellbinding sights. These include epic views from atop the lofty Mount Finlayson and gushing Niagara Falls (not the world-famous one).

The park is mostly known, however, for the annual fall salmon runs in the Goldstream River and the numerous bald eagles that swoop down to catch them.

8. Fisherman’s Wharf

Located around the corner from the city’s Inner Harbour is colorful Fisherman’s Wharf, which is the perfect place to grab some seafood or buy some souvenirs. Food kiosks and unique boutiques line the wharf, while float homes and fishing boats bob about offshore. Ferries and sightseeing tours also depart from its docks.

Built in 1948 to accommodate commercial fishing vessels, the wharf has a very lively feel to it with something going on all the time. As fishermen unload their catches, harbor seals and herons can be spied along the waterfront while the music of street performers rings in the air.

Alongside shopping and sampling fresh seafood, you can also rent kayaks here and arrange whale watching tours.

7. Victoria Whale Watching

Whales live and feed in the straits and seas that surround Victoria, so no trip to the city is complete without taking a whale watching tour. Many companies run excursions from the Inner Harbour, with April to October considered to be the best time of year to see them up close and personal.

From the decks of comfy catamarans and open Zodiac-style boats, you can spy pods of whales either feeding or migrating through the Georgia Strait. In addition to orcas and grey whales, are humpback and minke, with seals and sea lions also swimming about.

Adding to the awe-inspiring experience are the knowledgeable crew members who teach you about these majestic marine mammals.

6. Craigdarroch Castle

Perched atop a hill overlooking downtown is the massive Victorian-era mansion of Craigdarroch Castle, which exhibits some of the most attractive architecture in the area. Built back in 1890 for a wealthy coal baron, it is now protected as part of a museum with tours taking you around the National Historic Site.

Looking every bit like a fairytale castle, the well-preserved property boasts turrets and stained-glass windows, as well as wrap-around porches and balconies. Inside elegant halls and suites are decorated with lavish furnishings and period pieces.

Particularly known for its intricate woodwork, the mansion has 39 rooms to explore with informative displays highlighting the history of the castle and the Dunsmuir family who lived here.

5. Beacon Hill Park

Just south of the city center, Beacon Hill Park sprawls over a huge area and has countless landscapes, views, and outdoor activities to enjoy. While pockets of woodland can be found here and there, much of the park consists of landscaped gardens with stupendous coastal scenery and shoreline on show.

Since being established in 1882, the picturesque park has been a firm favourite with both locals and tourists alike due to its excellent amenities and delightful nature. Besides ponds and flower-filled fields, you can find playgrounds, picnic areas, and playing fields with a petting zoo and water park also on offer.

Additionally, it has one of the world’s tallest totem poles to check out and fantastic views from its prominent hilltop.

4. Butchart Gardens

One of the most popular places to visit in Victoria, the Butchart Gardens are a twenty-minute drive north of the city in a very serene and secluded spot. Located in what was once a limestone quarry, the gardens have lots of flowers and plants, pools and fountains to explore; all carefully placed and planted to please the eye.

Now a National Historic Site, the sprawling gardens were begun in 1904 by Jennie Butchart as a passion project. They have since grown to include Italian and Japanese gardens, as well as statues and pavilions.

The striking Sunken Garden is one of its standout sights. In total, it is home to 900 kinds of plants ranging from tulips and daffodils to roses and chrysanthemums.

3. Parliament Buildings

Dominating the south side of the city’s Inner Harbour is the spectacular set of structures that make up the seat of British Columbia’s government. Besides their important function, the Parliament Buildings are also very impressive with exquisite domes, turrets, and facades rising above the surrounding grounds and waterfront.

Built in the 1890s, they exhibit an array of architectural styles with Renaissance and Romanesque elements, as well as beautiful Neo-baroque features. On tours of the buildings, visitors can learn all about their history and that of the legislative assembly and province.

While its lofty blue dome is its undoubted highlight, the Parliament Buildings look best in the evening when the facade is magically lit up with thousands of little lights.

2. Royal BC Museum

Another of the city’s main tourist attractions is the Royal BC Museum which offers a fascinating look into the history, culture and nature of British Columbia. Set just a stone’s throw from Chinatown, it has many artifacts and exhibits to peruse that are related to the region.

Since being founded in 1886, its colossal collection has grown and now includes over seven million objects and specimens. While some dioramas and displays focus on the animals and ecosystems of British Columbia, other sections look at the traditions and heritage of the First Nations peoples.

With so much human and natural history to explore, the Royal BC Museum is not to be missed when in town.

1. Inner Harbour

Home to many, if not most of Victoria’s major sights, the Inner Harbour is lined by beautiful buildings and green spaces, with fishing boats and floating homes bobbing about the bay. As well as its wonderful waterfront, there are also attractive historic streets to wander along with countless cafes and restaurants dotted about.

While the Parliament Buildings and Edwardian-style Empress Hotel dominate the harbour, other attractions, such as Miniature World and the Maritime Museum, also lie nearby.

Thanks to its innumerable street artists and entertainers, the area has a very lively feel with concerts, festivals, and cultural events held in the summer months. People also take whale watching tours from its docks and watch floatplanes take off from the harbor’s airport.

Best Time to Visit Victoria

As the sun is shining, days are long and the temperature is finally relatively warm, the most popular time to visit Victoria is from May through September. These summer months are the best for ambling about its Inner Harbour and all its gorgeous gardens.

Averages of 16 to 21°C (61 to 70°F) are also ideal for enjoying whale-watching trips or touring its nearby vineyards. As the beautiful Butchart Gardens are in bloom, its pretty paths do get quite packed during this period. July and August are the absolute peak season when prices are at their highest and large crowds throng about the waterfront.

These busy months are also when many of its most important events take place. Besides the Fringe Theater Festival and International JazzFest, the Downtown Victoria Buskers Festival creates a very lively yet laidback atmosphere around town.

While March, April and October are cheaper and quieter times to visit, they are also colder, greyer and wetter. Many gardens close and the outdoor activities are less enjoyable.

As temperatures drop to just 6 to 9°C (43 to 48°F) and the days are much shorter, most avoid visiting between November and February. Even if prices are at their cheapest, you won’t be able to experience the city at its best.

Map of Things to Do in Victoria, BC

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Home » Destinations » North America » Canada » 15 Amazing Things to Do in Victoria, BC (+ Tips for Food)

17 Amazing Things to Do in Victoria, BC (+ Tips for Food)

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Here Are Some Of The Top Things To Do In Victoria, BC!

If you are exploring Canada’s beautiful west coast, there’s a good chance you’re heading for Victoria, BC!

While Vancouver is packed with things to do and see, the capital city of British Columbia – Victoria – is a bit of a hidden gem that sometimes gets overlooked by travellers!

We visited Victoria – during our extensive Vancouver Island trip – and explored the city with our local friend. Needless to say, we’ve gotten to know the city quite well.

However, our other trusted travel source – Laura from She Who Wanders – has also explored the city and a few places beyond! So, Laura was kind enough to also share her experience of discovering Victoria and the surrounding area.

Here’s our combined Victoria travel guide and our two cents on a few classic and non-touristy things to do in Victoria, BC!

Victoria, BC Quick Guide

Best Time to Visit:  Summer is warmer but busy. We liked the shoulder month of May but fall (September-October) would also be nice.

Getting Around:  The downtown is walkable and mostly flat, other areas can be more hilly or spread out. Use BCTransit for land and Victoria Harbour Ferry for water taxis.

Top Things to Do:  Visit the Butchart Gardens , Take a Whale Watching Tour ( loved it ), or Fly with a Seaplane Tour of Victoria !

Where to Stay:   Oswego Hotel for a quiet, charming hotel in a great area, Embassy Inn for a nice hotel with breakfast, and the Fairmont Empress Hotel for historic luxury overlooking the Inner Harbour.

Table of Contents

Things to Do in Victoria, BC

A trip to Victoria means you are in for not only some incredible hiking but also the chance to see some of Canada’s historic buildings all in a laid back atmosphere with spectacular views.

So, here are some great things to do in Victoria – get ready for the adventure you’ve been dreaming of!

Butchart Gardens

Address: 800 Benvenuto Ave, Brentwood Bay, BC V8M 1J8, Canada

With over 1 million visitors each year, it should be no surprise that the Butchart Gardens are a must-see stop for your trip to Victoria. 55 acres of garden, 26 greenhouses, and 900 varieties of plants make up these gardens and all of it is absolutely stunning.

Be transported to Italy as you wander through the Italian Garden or enjoy the serenity of the Japanese gardens – there is something here for everyone. My tip is to definitely make time to visit the Ross Fountain because it’s pretty special.

The Gardens are located a bit of a drive north from downtown Victoria so consider a Butchart Garden express shuttle bus (Garden admission is additional ) to take you there and back to Downtown quickly and with some commentary along the way!

Legislative Assembly of British Columbia

Address: 501 Belleville St, Victoria, BC V8V 2L8, Canada

If you’re looking out over the Inner Harbour (we’ll get to that below), you just need to turn around to find the most beautiful building in all of Victoria.

Seemingly looking as if the building is watching over all of the city, the Legislative Assembly of British Columbia looks more like a castle than anything to do with a Government Office.

The grounds are absolutely immaculate with a stunning fountain in the centre and the building itself is exquisite.

Tours are offered to the public Monday – Friday and the times of tours change daily.

So it’s best to visit the office inside or the official Legislative Assembly website for more information. If you want to see Parliament at its best, wait until dark and be amazed to see it all lit up!

Royal BC Museum

Address: 675 Belleville St, Victoria, BC V8W 9W2, Canada

Founded in 1866, The Royal BC Museum is so much more than just one museum. Containing British Columbia’s natural & human history museum as well as the BC Archives, it is home to so much of the province’s history.

Housing nearly 10,000 years of human history and over 500 million years of natural history really does make this place is incredible.

Dozens of exhibits are on offer through the permanent collections and the museum also welcomes touring exhibits and special events.

Learn not only about the history of British Columbia and Victoria but also the cultures and people who still call the land home today. They even have an IMAX cinema on-site, too.

Inner Harbour Causeway

Address: 790 Government St, Victoria, BC V8W 1W5, Canada

Time to check out one of the most beautiful harbours in the world and one of the main attractions in Victoria: The Inner Harbour.

This central docking point for the Harbour Air Seaplanes and a marina for leisure crafts also makes a perfect place for a walk.

This is a great spot to wander with a coffee, sit and enjoy the sunshine, or check out local artists and craft-makers displaying their works. Plus, this is one prime location if you want to see/photograph a good sunset.

Harbour Air Seaplane Tour

Speaking of seaplanes, if you want to experience Victoria and the gorgeous island region from the sky, you might consider taking to the skies for a short or long seaplane tour.

The seaplanes are good for getting to and from the mainland – but they are also great for gaining a beautiful perspective and appreciation of this stunning coastal region.

Seaplane Tours can be more on the expensive side, but there are few ways to experience Vancouver Island that match the grandeur that comes from being up in the air.

Our Tip: Consider a short seaplane tour or an extended seaplane tour with panoramic views !

The nice thing about seaplane tours is that they start and end right from the Inner Harbour at the Victoria Harbour Airport. It’s just a short walk from most places downtown – and if you’re exploring the Harbour, you’d walk right by any ways!

Whale Watching

When it comes to planning a trip to Vancouver Island, whale watching is likely on the top of your list – and what a better spot to do it!

There are estimated to be three pods of Orcas equaling to nearly 80 whales in the waters surrounding Victoria. If that wasn’t enough, there are also seals, sea lions, and some pretty incredible-looking eagles in the skies above.

There are several different outfitters for whale watching (Five Star Whale Watching, Orca Spirit Adventures, etc.) so it’s completely up to you on what kind of experience you’re after.

Tip: We (Lisa and Eric) did this whale watching tour with Orca Spirit Adventures and had an amazing day. Here’s our guide to whale watching in Victoria !

Picking a tour can be tough since there are different types of boats you can go on. Zodiacs are colder and more wet but you get closer to the whales. A covered boat offers more shelter with a top deck for searching. Each have their pros and cons!

Of course, it’s never a guarantee to see whales as these are wild animals. However, the experience of getting out on the water for a few hours is something not to be missed! You’ll just have to cross your fingers & toes when you head out on the water.

Victoria Whale Watching Tours

Whale watching tours in Victoria are easy to find if you just walk the Harbour. Booking in advance can reduce disappointment in the high summer season, so here are well-rated tours to get your search started:

• 3-Hour Zodiac Whale Watching Tour
• 3-Hour Whale & Marine Wildlife Tour (Small Boat)
• 3-Hour Larger Catamaran Whale Watching Tour

That said, Orca Spirit had the policy where if we did not see whales you got a redeemable, non-expiring voucher for another tour in the future. So you can have some peace of mind knowing you’ll see whales – eventually!

Fisherman’s Wharf

Address: 12 Erie St, Victoria, BC V8V 4X5, Canada

To find the most colourful part of Victoria, look no further than Fisherman’s Wharf. A hop skip and a jump from the Inner Harbour is where you’ll find the wharf, and on any given day there is nowhere else you’d rather be.

Here you will find vibrantly coloured and decorated houseboats docked in the wharf and half of these houseboats are actually food stalls and boutiques.

Enjoy a delicious fish and chips lunch at Barb’s Fish and Chips (that’s where Eric and Lisa ate).

Of course, your eyes peeled for some adorably curious harbour seals who have been known to pop in for a visit down here, too. Don’t feed them, though. Just enjoy their company!

Afternoon Tea at The Fairmont Empress

Address: 721 Government St, Victoria, BC V8W 1W5, Canada

If a stay at the Fairmont Empress isn’t in your budget, you can still enjoy the grandeur of this hotel. Offering afternoon tea since the hotel opened in the early 1900s, you’ll be having an afternoon fit for a royal.

With finger sandwiches, fresh-baked scones with homemade jams, shortbread, and cakes, this afternoon tea is one not to be missed. You’ll feel as if you’ve been transported to another time, and possibly all the way to London, too.

You can enjoy afternoon tea in the elegant Lobby Lounge and should consider a reservation if you visit in the summer months! You can also just visit to have a drink and admire the stunning hotel setting while in Victoria – this would be perfectly acceptable, too!

Beacon Hill Park

Address: 100 Cook St, Victoria, BC, Canada

Along Dallas Road is where you’ll find the beautiful and lush Beacon Hill Park . Now, this is not just your average green space with a swing set and a slide. No – this park is so much more!

First off, Beacon Hill Park covers over 200 acres. The grounds are beautiful and expansive – ranging from open grass fields to dense trees and curated gardens with ponds.

On top of this, the park has two full playgrounds, a water park, a putting green, a baseball diamond, multiple tennis courts, a petting zoo, a rose garden and several bandstands for events and performances. And that is just to name a few things!

It also features the world’s tallest free-standing totem pole down near the south end of the park!

Go for a jog or a walk – whatever way you choose to enjoy this place you won’t be disappointed. Oh, and to make it even better you’ll find peacocks roaming freely in the park, too.

Our Tip: Nearby to the Park, be sure to visit Cook Street Village. It’s a little shopping area with bars, restaurants, and cafes like The Hot and Cold Cafe . We really liked this cafe for food and drinks, too!

Ogden Point

If you’re exploring the coastal walkways (Dallas Road) at the south end of Beacon Hill Park – or you’re walking south out of Fisherman’s Wharf – you might want to walk long enough to experience Ogden Point.

Officially, Ogden Point is a multi-use shipping/pier area to receive cruise ships and other larger boat. You’ll actually find Victoria Bike Rentals here if you wanted to rent a bike for your exploring.

For a visitor, it means you can walk along the wide, flat pedestrian path that follows Dallas Road for stunning sea views.

The Ogden Point Sundial (beside Breakwater Bistro & Bar ) is the starting point for the long Breakwater Pier which you can walk out on for additional sea views.

At the end of the long breakwater, you’ll find a little red and white lighthouse. You’d think it’s a good photo spot – but the wind might do wild things with you hair. Be sure to wave to the boats that go in and out of the harbour from here!

Craigdarroch Castle

Address: 1050 Joan Crescent, Victoria, BC V8S 3L5, Canada

This is “Canada’s Castle”. While it’s true that the country as a whole lacks a serious amount of castles compared to other countries, Craigdarroch Castle more than makes up for that.

Designated as a National Historic site of Canada, this Scottish Baronial Mansion is absolutely stunning.

Built in the late 1800s, this regal mansion was built for Robert Dunsmuir who at the time was the richest man in Canada.

The Castle was Dunsmuir’s residence until he passed and his wife lived there until the early 1900s. Today, the castle is now a museum.

Visitors can explore the beautiful rooms, admire the intricate stained glass, and enjoy feeling like a king or queen throughout your visit.

Christmas Craigdarroch is a really special event and definitely worth booking if your visit coincides with the holidays.

Lower Johnson Street

Location: Lower Johnson Street

With the highest concentration of independent shops in all of Canada, Lower Johnson Street is the perfect place for shopping lovers. And even if you aren’t a lover of shopping, this part of Victoria is way too pretty to pass up.

Here you can find everything from vintage shops to comic book stores, florists, and jewelers.

No matter what it is you’re looking for you’ll find it all in vibrantly colour storefronts. These Victorian-era storefronts here are the best thing about this street and in the early morning hours, it’s a great place to take some photos. 

Address: 500 Fisgard St, Victoria, BC V8W 1R4, Canada

Victoria’s Chinatown is the oldest in Canada and one of the most beautiful. What began as a base for miners from California in 1858, this area is now home to a large population of Chinese Canadians.

The streets are lined with red and yellow lanterns and there is a giant red and gold entryway (called The Gate of Harmonious Interest) to let you know you’ve arrived.

Of course, the delicious smells from the restaurants are something that isn’t to be ignored either!

Chinatown is also where you’ll find the narrowest street in Canada (Fan Tan Alley) which is also one of the prettiest in Victoria.

Fan Tan Alley has tons of local shops and eateries. Plus at night when it’s all lit up it has a magical kind of vibe to it. The area also has a rich history which you can learn about from the numerous signs and historic plaques on the walls.

Miniature World

Address: 649 Humboldt St, Victoria, BC V8W 1A7, Canada

One of the more unique things to do in Victoria is to visit Miniature World . Said to be the “greatest little show on Earth”, this place is strange and wonderful all at the same time.

Containing over 85 miniature tiny attractions, this mini world includes a crazy long model railway, a sawmill, a fantasy land, a circus, and even a dollhouse world just to name a few.

Miniature World has been in business for nearly 50 years and every year it is voted one of the best attractions in Victoria.

Whether you think it’s weird or it’s wonderful, it definitely is something worth checking out if only for the sole fact to say that you’ve been to this tiny and terrific place. 

Hatley Castle

Address: 2005 Sooke Rd, Victoria, BC V9B 5Y2, Canada

Located on the complete other side of Victoria from Craigdarroch Castle is the city’s second castle, Hatley Castle .

Another National Historic site of Canada, Hatley Castle has been used in movies like X-Men and was once a stop on the Amazing Race Canada.

This Edwardian estate covers over 560 acres including the mansion, several other houses, and the lush gardens.

There are guided walking tours daily where visitors will get a real insight into the building, the many individuals who have lived here, and what goes into maintaining the property.

If you want to be your own guide that is also possible and you can wander through at your own pace.

Just be sure to leave extra time for the gardens, especially in spring when everything is in bloom.

Sooke Potholes Provincial Park

Address: Sooke River Rd, Sooke, BC V9Z 0Y1, Canada

If you’re after some of the best waterfalls on Vancouver Island, look no further than Sooke Potholes Provincial Park .

Located on the banks of the Sooke River, you’ll find amazing geological formations that have created deep smooth pools in the rock that fill with freshwater.

In the summer months when the river is calm, this is a great swimming spot, especially for locals. In the more rainy winter months, it’s the perfect place for an adventure.

Explore the Provincial Park on foot – hiking all around the trails and enjoying the dozens of waterfalls along the way.

The rainy weather seems to create new waterfalls every week which is always a bonus if you don’t mind getting a little wet. Just be sure to adhere to potential flood warnings in the rainy season because conditions can change quite quickly!

Goldstream Provincial Park

Address: 53 Finlayson Arm Rd, Victoria, BC V9B 6V3, Canada

Heading away from downtown Victoria for a moment, but not really accessible by public transit, Goldstream Provincial Park is incredible.

This spot is definitely one that you’ll need a car for. Covering nearly 1000 acres, this provincial park is most well known for the annual salmon run.

Outside of the salmon run season, this is a spot you could spend days exploring. Dozens of trails exist within the park from leisurely walking trails to the more sweat-inducing Trestle Trail.

The Trestle Trail is one of the more popular spots for photographers as it takes you up through the park to an inactive railway trestle (bridge) that sits nearly 160 feet above the valley below.

While the views from here are incredible it is quite a risky spot to walk across as the trestle is not maintained – in fact, you are advised to not cross. That said, you can hike up to it and still get the same views even if you don’t cross.

Besides, the highlight of this visit should be Niagara Falls (shown above). No, not that one. This one is quite a bit smaller but you can actually follow the riverbed and go right up to the falls which is incredible. 

Where to Eat and Drink in Victoria, BC

Victoria may not be a major city, but it has all the great eateries, pubs, and cafes that you’d find in one!

Being an island you’ll find fantastic seafood options, tons of locally sourced and fresh produce from around the island, and tons of fun delicious places to eat.

John’s Place

Address: 723 Pandora Ave, Victoria, BC V8W 1N8, Canada

A local favourite and quite the establishment, John’s Place has been serving amazing food for over 30 years. Everything on the menu is made fresh daily from the waffles to the meatloaf.

With a homey atmosphere and a great staff, this is a great spot for breakfast or lunch.

Address: 517 Pandora Ave, Victoria, BC V8W 1N6, Canada

Victoria’s “craft beer parlour” is not the place for you if you’re after a cocktail. If you’re a beer lover though, The Drake is the perfect spot for you!

With a tap list that changes daily and a perfectly crafted menu to pair with the beers, they offer this is a top spot for lunch or to kick off a night on the town.

Red Fish Blue Fish

Address: 1006 Wharf St, Victoria, BC V8W 1N8, Canada

In an up-cycled cargo container you’ll find Victoria’s top spot for fish and chips and then some: Red Fish Blue Fish . This outdoor eatery in the inner harbour is open daily offering up special and a classic menu, too.

Fish and chips are of course a must but they also have amazing tacos, oysters, and deep-fried pickles!

Address: 1205 Wharf St, Victoria, BC V8W 1T8, Canada

With a perfect view of the Inner Harbour, The Local is this casual Canadian grill is the place to be for great food, good cocktails, and an all-around fun atmosphere.

The view alone from the patio at The Local will have you coming back for more. It’s a great place for drinks in the evening too!

Union Pacific Coffee Shop

Address: 537 Herald St, Victoria, BC V8W 1S5, Canada

If you, like many, need caffeine to function on a regular basis, you’ll want to save the Union Pacific Coffee Shop to your Victoria map. Not only is the coffee amazing but their all-day breakfast is something not to be missed either.

Pop in for a coffee, stay for breakfast, and enjoy their back patio all in historic Chinatown.

We (Eric and Lisa) also liked our cafe stop at Hey Happy . Really cool place!

Blue Fox Cafe

Another breakfast place that we (Eric and Lisa) have to mention is  Blue Fox Cafe . It’s the one with the blue sign hanging over the sidewalk!

With free coffee refills, large portion sizes, and friendly staff, we’d argue that Blue Fox provided us with one of the best travel breakfasts we’ve ever had. Honestly, that’s no joke and we do not say that all the time.

Because it’s so good and popular, be sure to go early because there is likely to be a line up outside!

Things to Consider When Planning to Visit Victoria, BC

As mentioned, Victoria is the capital city of British Columbia and is found on one of the most beautiful islands in all of Canada – Vancouver Island.

Located on the southern end of Vancouver Island, Victoria is home to an incredible amount of lush parkland making it an outdoor enthusiasts dream vacation destination.

Aside from the lovely outdoor setting, as the Capital of the province, there is some incredible history to be explored in Victoria, too.

This island city is overflowing with waterfalls, swimming holes, beautiful gardens, lovely independent shops, and even a few castles.

When you have to fly or sail just to travel to a city it really gives you a sense of jetting off to another world – and Victoria does just that!

The city itself has a great laid back vibe about it and everyone you meet will be happy you’ve decided to visit their little slice of paradise.

Where to Stay in Victoria, BC

If you are heading to Victoria, it’s usually a good idea to spend a night or two (or more) on Vancouver Island so that you get a more well-rounded experience of what the island has to offer.

Luckily for you, there are a number of great hotels, inns, and bed and breakfasts for you to choose from. You should have no problem finding a place right in the city centre or in a quieter area close to the water.

Check here for hotels and accommodations in Victoria, BC .

Specifically, for anyone looking for an upscale getaway, or the chance to stay in a place that looks like a castle, The Fairmont Empress has got you covered.

This chateau-style building overlooks the inner harbour and has been an iconic accommodation option in Victoria for decades.

We (Eric and Lisa) really liked our stay at the Oswego Hotel . Located in quiet James Bay, the hotel was great (we had a kitchenette) and it was walkable to the Harbour and Downtown in less than 10 minutes.

Other solid options for places to stay in Victoria are aparthotels close to downtown. For example, Victoria Regent Waterfront Hotel & Suites overlooks the waterfront.

The quieter areas like James Bay are also known for lots of actual bed and breakfasts. The Pendray Inn and Tea House is a beautiful, historic bed and breakfast overlooking parts of the harbour.

Read More: Here’s our guide on where to stay in Victoria, BC if you want to know more about accommodations and areas!

Best Time to Visit Victoria, BC

Victoria seems to have a similar climate to Vancouver, although the island sees less snowfall in the winter than the mainland. Winter in Victoria brings quite a lot of rain, but if you are prepared – aka have all the waterproof layers – you’ll be good to go.

The rainforests on the island are at their most lush and green during the rainy winters and the waterfalls are best after a big rainfall, too. While the island may see a significant amount of rain, its summers are truly gorgeous.

Long warm days with the sun setting at 9 pm means a few extra hours for adventuring.

The summer months (June – August) see the largest amount of visitors because of the nicer weather but if you are looking to visit and want to avoid the crowds, September into early October can be wonderful.

You’ll likely have quieter streets and trails but still beautiful weather. Having visited in winter, spring, and summer, I (Laura) definitely prefer September to any other time of year in Victoria!

Getting To/Around Victoria, BC

To travel to Vancouver Island, we’ve actually written a comprehensive guide on how to go from Vancouver to Victoria (covering all transport options). In short, there are two main options: take the ferry with a bus, a car, or by walking on OR you can fly there!

From Vancouver, visitors can drive or walk onto the ferry from Tsawwassen to Swartz Bay in Victoria.

From downtown Vancouver, you can take public transit to the ferry terminal if you don’t have your own vehicle or want to save a little as it is cheaper to walk on versus drive on.

Eric and Lisa took the BC Ferries Connector which was a coach bus that picked up from the Bus Terminal in Vaancouver, drove to the ferry, got on and off the ferry, and drove to downtown Victoria – all for one ticket price.

It was so easy to book and only about 4 hours total travel time from downtown to downtown, one way.

Crossing the Georgia Strait and sailing close to several other islands, you’ll get the best opportunity to spot wildlife this way, too.

Keep your eyes peeled for seals, eagles, and if you’re lucky enough whales! For more information on cost and timetables visit the BC Ferries Website .

If you’re coming over from Seattle, Washington you can also catch the ferry. The Clipper arrives in Victoria in less than 3 hours from Pier 69.

For the fastest way to get to Victoria, you’ll want to grab a flight with Harbour Air.

These seaplanes which are “float planes” because they land and take off on the water will get you from Downtown Vancouver to the Inner Harbour in Victoria in around 35 minutes and you’ll be in for the ride of a lifetime.

These seaplanes fly significantly lower than commercial aircraft so you’ll get a chance to see the islands from above which is truly incredible. Information on schedules and tickets can be found here for Harbour Air .

Related Articles

If you’re travelling to British Columbia (or visiting Canada for the first time , for that matter), check out these other handy posts:

• One Day in Victoria, BC: What to Eat, See and Do
• Where to Stay in Victoria, BC: Areas & Accommodations
• How to Get From Victoria to Tofino
• Visiting Tofino Guide : Activities, Food, and More!
• What to Pack for Canada – All Seasons + Areas
• Where to Stay in Vancouver: Areas + Accommodations

And there you have it – some of the best things to do in Victoria, BC!

This seaside Canadian city is full of other things to do but this is an excellent list to get visitors with different interests started. Once again, a huge thank you to Laura for sharing her experience and travel tips!

As always, Happy Victoria BC Waddlin’, – L&E

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14 Best things to do in Victoria while visiting this summer, according to a local

The opinions expressed in this article are the author's own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Narcity Media.

If you're planning a trip to Victoria this summer then you're in for a treat, because the oceanside city is a gateway to the beauty of Vancouver Island .

After moving from Ontario to B.C. eight years ago I can now call myself a Victoria local, and dish on all of the best local attractions, hidden gems, and must-see spots near the city.

Summer in Victoria is the perfect time to plan a trip because the island is magical at this time of year with all the blooming flowers, the beautiful beaches along the crisp blue ocean, and all the fun activities available to you.

From visiting the Butchart Gardens to driving to Mystic Beach and Tofino, there is no shortage of places you should make time for on your B.C. trip.

Here are 14 of the best things to see and do in Victoria and on the island when you're here.

Take in the sites in downtown Victoria

Asymina Kantorowicz | Narcity

The Inner Harbour in Victoria, BC.

This one may seem obvious, but I can't stress enough that taking a walk around downtown Victoria is a must while you're here.

The city centre along the water is bustling during the summer months with locals and tourists.

During your visit make sure you walk to the B.C. legislature where you'll want to take photos and even go for a tour inside if you have the time.

Downtown is where you'll also find the Fairmont Empress Hotel. This iconic B.C. building is across from the Inner Harbour which is filled with boats, whale-watching vessels and seaplanes.

There are also charming boutiques and cute cafes along Government Street where you can shop and grab a coffee.

Fish & chips at Fisherman's Wharf

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The ocean surrounds Victoria, meaning the fish is as fresh as you can get it. There are several places along the water where you can stop for fish and chips or fish tacos.

My recommendation is to go to Fisherman's Wharf, which is around the corner from the downtown area. That's where you'll find unique shops, colourful float homes and delicious fish and chips. You'll also typically see seals swimming nearby as well.

Walk along the Ogden Point Breakwater

Since you're already on the south island and need to walk off that delicious fish and chips lunch you had, I recommend heading to the Ogden Point Breakwater where you can walk out towards the Juan de Fuca Strait towards a lighthouse.

This is a beautiful spot to take in the views of the water, sailboats, float planes and cruise ships.

If you want more of a walk, you can continue along Dallas Road and take a break at one of the many benches along the way.

Visit some of Victoria's beautiful parks

B.C.'s capital city has over 100 parks so make sure you include a few of those on your travel itinerary.

Beacon Hill Park in Victoria is one spot that won't disappoint. The park is so beautiful with its colourful flower beds, trees, and footpaths.

It's one of the first parks I ever went to when I first moved to the city and it's also where I saw peacocks for the first tine. The birds roam around the area freely and you'll often hear them before you see them.

Visit Mystic Beach

There is no shortage of magical beaches in Victoria but if you want a true islander experience, drive to Vancouver Island's west coast where you'll find Mystic Beach, Sombrio Beach and China Beach.

My personal favourite is Mystic Beach along the Strait of the Juan de Fuca because you get to do an easy hike (approx. 30-45 minutes) in the forest before you get to the incredible beach.

Once you get to the water you'll be amazed by what you see. It's the perfect spot to relax and listen to the waves crashing along the shore and have a picnic. Don't forget to check out the beautiful waterfall that cascades down a cliff.

If you're short on time and the hike is too much, go to the beach next to Mystic Beach called China Beach. It has the same great beach views minus the long hike.

See all the blooms at the Butchart Gardens

Victoria, B.C. is known as Canada's garden city so visiting the most iconic garden on the island is a must-see attraction.

The Butchart Gardens was recently ranked as the most beautiful garden in Canada and among the most beautiful in the world, in case you need more convincing.

The gardens are filled with lush trees, colourful flowers and sections inspired by different countries like Japan, Italy and the Mediterranean.

It's a floral paradise that should be on every Canadian's bucket list!

Take a road trip to Tofino

You can't visit Vancouver Island without taking a road trip to the town of Tofino . There are several beautiful beaches in Tofino, including Long Beach and Chesterman Beach.

There are also hikes you can do while you're there, like in Pacific Rim National Park.

If you have the time, you can even rent a surfboard and test out the waves for yourself!

While you're in the area, don't forget to stop by the original Tacofino truck for fish tacos or a burrito.

Stop at Cathedral Grove

If you're driving to Tofino, there are at least a couple of stops along the way that I would recommend to any visitor.

One of those is Cathedral Grove in MacMillan Park which has towering Douglas fir trees, some of which are more than 800 years old.

It's an incredible sight to see!

Visit the goats on the roof in Coombs

The second stop on the way to Tofino that I would suggest is in the small town of Coombs. That's where you'll find Old Country Market which is famous for the adorable goats on the roof.

Aside from the goats, the market is also fully stocked with a lot of great snacks for the rest of your road trip.

Rent a kayak

Asymina in a kayak in Victoria, BC.

Considering Victoria is surrounded by the ocean, getting on the water is a nice activity that allows you to take in the beautiful West Coast views from a different angle.

There are several places you can rent a kayak depending on where you are in the city. If you're lucky you may see some wildlife while you're out there!

Sip on local wine at the wineries

Asymina holding a bottle of Church and State wine.

Vancouver Island isn't all about fresh seafood, it also has many local wineries that produce some of the best wine I've ever had.

From Church and State Wines in Brentwood Bay to Blue Grouse Estate Winery and Unsworth Winery in Cowichan, there are a lot of choices depending on your travel routes.

Along with sipping on vino, many of them offer beautiful views of the water and mountains.

If wine isn't your thing, there are also several breweries and spots where you can try local cider.

Have lunch or dinner on a waterfront patio

One of the best activities to do in Victoria on a nice summer day is go to one of the waterfront restaurants and sit on the patio. Many of these spots have remarkable views of the water.

I used to live in Ontario and I can truthfully say patio season hits different on the West Coast.

Take a dip at the Sooke potholes

While the ocean and lakes are popular places to go for a swim during the summer, another beloved spot for the locals is Sooke Potholes .

The potholes are deep pools in the Sooke River rock and it's a spectacular spot to cool off after a hike in the park.

Explore Hatley Castle

If you love visiting castles during your travels then you'll want to check out Hatley Castle at Royal Roads University.

It's a beautiful backdrop for photos and it's often used in movies. You know that iconic shot of Deadpool lying in front of a castle in Deadpool 2 ? That was shot right here!

Happy travels!

Before you get going, check out our Responsible Travel Guide so you can be informed, be safe, be smart, and most of all, be respectful on your adventure.

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20 Unusual Things to Do in Victoria, BC

There are lots of touristy things to do in Victoria , but sometimes it’s nice to do something that’s a little different and off the beaten path. Maybe you’ve visited the Butchart Gardens, climbed Mount Doug, or gone whale watching one too many times recently, and you need a change. Or maybe, you just prefer more unique activities. Luckily, there are lots of unusual things to do in Victoria, BC!

While there are many tourist attractions around the city, there are also lots of unique or unusual things to do in Victoria. There are many hidden gems around Victoria, you just have to look for them! The city has many unique activities that you can experience, from ghostly tours to yacht races.

Also, there are so many weird and wonderful things to see in Victoria including everything from whimsical driftwood sculptures at Esquimalt Lagoon to the world’s largest gnome to the mythical Cadborosaurus at Cadboro-Gyro Park! You’ll never run out of things to do!

In this article, we’ve compiled a list of 20 unusual things to do in Victoria, BC, so that you can explore some of the more unique and weird activities that the city has to offer! We also provide recommendations for unique and unusual hotels and places to stay, as well as unique restaurant experiences that the city has to offer.

20 Unique and Unusual Things to Do in Victoria, BC

Below, we list the best unique, unusual, and weird things to do in Victoria, BC. These activities aren’t in any particular order, and all of them are unusual in the sense that they aren’t the typical tourist attractions that people usually go to on their vacations. Enjoy!

1. Walk the Hidden Alleys in Downtown Victoria

Downtown Victoria is full of one-of-a-kind, hidden alleyways! Each alley is unique in its own way, with its own history and quirks. Often, these alleys look inconspicuous from the road, but once you step inside, these alleyways will open up into a whole new world!

Fan Tan Alley is famous for being the narrowest street in Canada. This alleyway opens into a magical, hidden shopping area in the oldest Chinatown in Canada. You can also walk through Dragon Alley, a historic Chinatown Alley, marked by a red dragon.

Alternatively, you can shop under the glow of 125+ year old gas lights in Trounce Alley, between Government and Broad Streets. Another option is to walk through Waddington Alley, the only street in Victoria paved with wood!

Many of the alleys are lit up at night with strings of lights, and full of adorable little local shops, selling everything from food and drinks to clothes and art. It’s a lot of fun trying to explore them all!

Cost: Free Time: Varies Duration: 1-3 hours Location: downtown Victoria

2. Admire the Moss Lady at Beacon Hill Park

Hidden in among the beautiful gardens of Beacon Hill Park, you’ll find the sleeping Moss Lady, a giant statue of a lady with a body blanketed in moss. Inspired by the ‘Mud Maiden’ of the Lost Gardens of Heligan in England, the artist Dale Doebert created the Moss Lady out of boulders, cement, pipes, wire, soil, and plants. Flowers grow from her head in place of hair, and her face is serene as she lays under the trees in the park.

The Moss Lady in Beacon Hill Park lays nearby a small stream and the park’s bandshell, which often has live music on summer weekends. There are two carved chairs in front of the Moss Lady where you can enjoy the peaceful scene and the park’s atmosphere. Here, you can relax under the canopy of the trees, listen to music, and admire the beautiful Moss Lady and her surroundings.

Cost: Free Time: Anytime Duration: <30min Location: Beacon Hill Park by the Cameron Bandshell

3. Join a Ghost Tour of Downtown Victoria

What better way to spend your evening than listening to a good scary story and exploring Victoria’s haunted past? Join a guided walking ghost tour to discover the ghosts haunting the buildings and streets of downtown Victoria, a city with a surprising reputation for paranormal activity!

If you love scary stories, Victoria’s ghostly walks will be perfect for you! Your knowledgeable tour guide will lead you on a walk through the dark history of Victoria, telling you entertaining, spooky stories about paranormal events and tragic tales, including everything from hangings to romance to murders. These tours are guaranteed to leave you sleeping with the lights on!

Cost: $20 per adult / $15 for students and seniors / $10 for children Time: Late evening, usually Friday-Sunday Duration: 60 minutes Location: Downtown Victoria

4. Visit the National Toy Museum of Canada

Did you love toys as a child and want to take a walk down memory lane? Or, want to show your children some of the toys you grew up with? Head to the National Toy Museum of Canada , an amazing museum that collects and displays all kinds of vintage toys. They have all kinds of toys, from the 1960s to the 90s!

Stepping into the National Toy Museum is like being transported back in time to when you were just a child. The museum is super nostalgic and will trigger fond childhood memories of playing with action figures and toy sets. Plus, it’s located on top of an awesome toy store: Cherry Bomb Toys. The toy shop has reasonable prices and the employees are incredibly friendly. It’s definitely worth the visit, even just for the trip down memory lane!

Cost: Entry by donation / Free for children Time: 12pm-5pm, Tuesday-Sunday Duration: 30-60 minutes Location: 1410 Broad Street

5. Head to the Victoria Bug Zoo

Do you love bugs or want to overcome your fear of creepy crawlies? Try visiting the Victoria Bug Zoo , a mini-zoo with all kinds of insects, spiders, and other arthropods that you can view. Some of them you can even hold, like the tarantulas!

The Victoria Bug Zoo has over 50 species, from giant walking sticks to glow-in-the-dark scorpions to brilliantly green praying mantises. You can also watch busy leaf-cutter ants carrying leaves in Canada’s largest leaf-cutter ant farm.

This insect zoo is great fun for both kids and adults. The tour guides are very knowledgeable. Check out the gift shop at the Victoria Bug Zoo when you’re finished for lots of cool bug-themed souvenirs!

Cost: $14 per adult / $8 per child age 5-17 / Free for children under 5 / $10 for seniors and students Time: 11am-4pm (opens 10am on weekends) Duration: 30 min to 2 hours Location: 631 Courtney Street

6. Discover a the Sphinx in the Galey Farms Corn Maze

Egypt isn’t the only place with a sphinx and pyramids… you can also find them in Victoria, hidden deep within a corn maze! Truly one of a kind, Galey Farms is a unique farm with a whimsical assortment of attractions. At this farm, you can find all kinds of unique sculptures: a sphinx, pyramid, pirate ship, dinosaurs, and even Howard, the world’s tallest gnome. Howard greets visitors to the farm from a patch of massive fiberglass mushrooms!

You’re guaranteed to have a blast if you visit Galey Farms’ maze and market. Even adults love visiting this farm! In addition to being a working family-owned farm, they have all kinds of outdoor fun things to do, including a train ride, pumpkin patch, haunted house, and corn maze. You can also buy fresh Vancouver Island-grown produce (grown on their farm!) from their produce stand.

Cost: $20 per adult / $15 per child (12 and under) Time: Galey Farms opening hours Duration: 1-3 hours Location: 4150 Blenkinsop Road

7. Walk through Ross Bay Cemetery

Exploring a cemetery may not be at the top of everyone’s list, but a quiet stroll through Ross Bay Cemetery is definitely worth a try. This Victorian-era cemetery is extremely gorgeous, with large trees, unique marble sculptures, and striking monuments. It’s an incredibly beautiful place for an afternoon walk and is even located right beside the ocean!

Ross Bay Cemetery is the final resting place for several famous Canadians and Americans, including Emily Carr (world-famous artist and writer), Robert Dunsmuir (coal baron and builder of Craigdarroch Castle), Isabella Mainville Ross (the first woman to be a registered landowner in BC), and Sir James Douglas (First Governor of BC).

You can walk through the cemetery and view the graves for free. Or, take a guided tour with the Old Cemeteries Society of Victoria if you want to learn about the cemetery’s history and inhabitants.

Cost: Free / $5 for a tour Time: Anytime Duration: 1 hour Location: 1495 Fairfield Road

8. Find the Heron Colony at Beacon Hill Park

Every year, Great Blue Herons form a massive nesting colony (called a heronry or rookery) by Goodacre Lake in Beacon Hill Park, where they build nests, lay eggs and raise their young. The herons arrive around January to February and stick around until mid-summer when their offspring can fly.

It’s a lot of fun watching the adults awkwardly land in trees, seeing heron chicks begging for food, and watching juveniles clumsily fly around. You might even see bald eagles hunting around the nests!

You’ll probably hear or smell the heron rookery before you see it! Because the heron chicks can’t leave the nest, the plants and pathways underneath the colony get stained white and the air fills with quite a fishy stench. And, if you hear snapping and screeching noises, you’ll know that you’re close. However, while these birds may be stinky and loud, the herons are extremely cool to watch and popular with visitors to the park!

Cost: Free Time: Approximately February to July/August Duration: 1 hour Location: Goodacre Lake at Beacon Hill

9. Feel like a Giant in Miniature World

Have you ever wondered what it feels like to be a giant? Why not head to Miniature World and find out!

Fun for both children and adults, visiting Miniature World is like stepping into a new universe – one that has shrunk, that is! Located inside the famous Empress Hotel, Miniature World has interactive dioramas depicting scenes from around the world and through history. You’ll spend hours looking at all the details and figures in the miniature scenes!

Cost: $18 per adult / $9 for children Time: 10 am-5 pm, Wednesday-Sunday Duration: 1-2 hours Location: 649 Humboldt Street

10. Try some Acroyoga at Beacon Hill Park

Have you and a partner ever wanted to try acroyoga (or acro yoga), a mix of acrobatics and yoga? Well, you are in luck! Every Sunday at Beacon Hill the Victoria Acro Community meets by the Cameron Bandshell to practice acroyoga and other flow arts. It’s a lot of fun to watch or to join in!

The jam session is open to anyone, although you might want to take an acro yoga class or two before joining. The acroyoga meetup also has people practicing other movement-based art forms, like juggling, hooping, poi, staff spinning, and slacklining.

There is also often music playing on the weekends at the park, so you can practice and enjoy the yoga jam session while listening to local music! When you’re done, head over to the Beacon Hill Children’s Farm petting zoo to enjoy meeting the goats, or check out one of the world’s tallest free-standing story totem poles near Dallas Road.

Cost: Free Time: 2 pm, Sundays during summer (weather dependent) Duration: 1-2 hours Location: Cameron Bandshell in Beacon Hill Park

11. View the Totem Poles at Thunderbird Park

Located beside the museum, Thunderbird Park displays totem poles and monuments from First Nations (primarily Gitxsan, Haida, and Kwakwaka’wakw) of BC. Their culture and history are a vital part of the land and the province. These poles are replicas and originals from places like Haida Gwaii , Xwatis (Hwates) in Quatsino Sound, and Gitsegukla (Skeena Crossing) by the Skeena River.

While these totem poles are part of Victoria’s Royal BC Museum, you can view this attraction for free by the intersection of Douglas Street and Belleville Street. These poles have been displayed since 1941 and were restored by master carver, Mungo Martin, and others.

What is the meaning of Thunderbird in the park’s name? In Indigenous culture, Thunderbird is a powerful being who creates thunder from his wings, lightning from his eyes, and rainstorms to water the earth. In the Northwest Coast, he is only depicted at the top of totem poles due to a promise made by the people after he helped them during a food shortage.

Cost: Free Time: Anytime Duration: 30 minutes Location: 638 Douglas Street

12. Marvel at the Mansions in the Uplands Neighborhood

Victoria is one of the richest cities in Canada and also one of the most expensive to live in! One of the most prestigious places to live in Victoria is along Beach Drive and the adjacent streets, in the neighborhood of Uplands.

Along Beach Drive, you can spot huge, expensive mansions lining the streets and backing onto the ocean, displaying all kinds of wealth. Walking down Beach Drive to look at the mansions can be a lot of fun if you’ve ever been curious about how some of the richest people in BC live. Make sure to respect their privacy though and try to not get too jealous!

As you walk, check out the numerous rocky, pocket beaches at the end of many of the oceanside streets. After, you can head to the nearby Willows Beach , one of the most popular sandy beaches in Victoria, BC .

Cost: Free Time: Daytime Duration: 1-2 hours Location: Uplands neighborhood

13. Go Stargazing at Cattle Point

Sitting under thousands of stars beside the ocean is an unforgettable experience that’ll leave you in infinite wonder, every time. Luckily, you can stargaze in the city of Victoria, from the rocky coast of Cattle Point by Uplands Park. Despite being located within the city, this part of Victoria is perfect for enjoying the stars over the ocean on clear nights!

Cattle Point is designated as a dark sky urban star park. It’s part of a program that aims to help reduce light pollution in cities and let urban residents experience the beauty of sitting under the stars. The park is perfect for stargazing and sometimes people will even set up their telescopes in the parking lot!

During the daytime, Cattle Point is an amazing place to check out the tide pools. Keep an eye on the tide charts! At night, bring a blanket and a mug of hot chocolate so you’re nice and cozy while sitting on the driftwood by the water under the beautiful stars. See if you can spot the milky way on a clear night!

Cost: Free Time: Nighttime Duration: 1-2 hours Location: Cattle Point

14. Walk through History at Macaulay Point Park

Macaulay Point Park is a hidden gem that many people don’t know about, including locals! From the parking lot, this park looks pretty normal. However, as soon as you start walking around this park, you’ll realize that it definitely isn’t just any park. Here, you can explore the remains of an old coastal defense fortress that used to protect the shores of Victoria!

Macaulay Point Park used to be home to Fort Macaulay, an old military fortification used from 1878 to 1956 to protect the coastline. If you love military history, you’ll love walking through this old fort! Macaulay Point Park has lots of old structures, including a gun emplacement and a battery command post, which you can access by walking through a neat little tunnel.

While not as well preserved as Fort Rodd Hill, this historical experience is a great free attraction in Victoria and still lots of fun! When you’re done exploring the historical buildings, check out the rock climbers at Fleming Beach , scrambling up the huge rock wall.

Cost: Free Time: Anytime Duration: 1-2 hours Location: Macaulay Point Park

15. Watch the Swiftsure Yacht Race from Clover Point

Each year over the Memorial Day weekend, over 200 yachts with more than 1400 crew members race across the ocean as part of the international Swiftsure Yacht Race ! During the race, the yacht sailors try to sail across the Juan de Fuca Strait as fast as possible. Each yacht fights to be the first to cross the finish line in this thrilling sailing contest.

This premier yacht sailing race is hosted by the Royal Victoria Yacht Club. There are different race events with varying distances and difficulties, but all require a lot of sailing skills!

While you can’t watch the entire race, it’s a lot of fun watching the yacht race head out from the shores of Victoria. Head to Clover Point to watch all the Swiftsure boats sail past. It’s quite a sight to see all the yachts go past, leaning with the wind! You can see the yachts clearly from shore, but for a better view, bring a pair of binoculars .

Cost: Free to watch Time: Memorial Day weekend Duration: 1 hour Location: Clover Point

16. Drive to Mile 0

If you ever take a road trip across Canada, you will be driving on the Trans-Canada Highway (otherwise known as Highway 1 in BC). This long highway spans the entire country and connects many major cities in Canada. We’re sure you’ve heard of it!

This super important highway starts in Victoria at Mile 0. The spot is marked by a sign on the grassy field at the Douglas Street and Dallas Road intersection. If you ever visit St. John’s on the east coast, you can find the other end of the Trans-Canada Highway – although they also call their side Mile 0!

The Mile 0 marker is also home to a statue of Terry Fox, a famous Canadian who set off from Newfoundland on a cross-Canada Marathon of Hope after losing his leg to cancer. His mission was to fundraise for cancer research. While he unfortunately never made it to Victoria, the statue stands in his honor in the place where he would have finished the marathon.

Cost: Free Time: Anytime Duration: <15 min Location: Douglas Street and Dallas Road intersection

17. View the Ocean from the Gonzales Observatory

If you’re driving around the south side of Victoria, you might spot a striking white building on the top of a hill looking over the ocean and contrasting beautifully against the dark rocks. This is the Gonzales Observatory, a weather station turned heritage building that overlooks Gonzales Beach (one of the most beautiful beaches in Victoria ) and the city.

For 75 years, the Gonzales Hill Observatory served as a weather station for Environment Canada. After it was abandoned, the observatory and surrounding land were converted into a gorgeous park.

The observatory is located in Gonzales Hill Regional Park , the smallest park in the Greater Victoria region. This small park offers unparalleled views of the Olympic mountains over the Juan de Fuca Strait. The park is also home to rare wildflowers, Garry oak trees, and California quail. While you can’t go inside the observatory, Gonzales Hill is the perfect place to watch the sunset over the Sooke Hills or get amazing views of Victoria!

Cost: Free Time: Anytime Duration: 1 hour Location: Gonzales Hill Regional Park

18. Try a Discovery Flight over Victoria

Have you ever wondered what it feels like to fly a plane? Try a discovery flight with the Victoria Flying Club !

A discovery flight is exactly what it sounds like: an introduction to aviation and flying an airplane for someone who hasn’t flown before. This introductory flight is meant to introduce potential students to a flight school and the instructors, and to let them experience what flying a plane feels like.

First, your private flying lesson will involve a pre-flight briefing and training orientation of the aircraft on the ground. Then, the fun begins!

In the second half of the lesson, you will be in the air, flying over the city. You’ll even be given a chance to control the plane under the tutelage of the pilot. This is an unforgettable experience and will give you a brand new perspective on flying!

Cost: $250 per hour Time: By appointment Duration: 2 hours (about 60 minutes flying) Location: 101 – 1852 Canso Road

19. Visit the Emily Carr House

Emily Carr was a famous Canadian artist and writer, who lived between 1871 and 1945. She was famous for capturing the spirit of Canada through paintings of First Nations culture and West Coast forests. Additionally, she wrote an autobiographical series of books and short story collections .

Her childhood home, the Emily Carr House , is a national historic site in Victoria. The house celebrates her life through historic exhibits, education programs, and tours. You can tour the house by appointment or wander around the gardens for free. Learn about a Canadian icon and her vibrant life!

Cost: $6.75 / By donation Time: Opening hours Duration: 1 hour Location: 207 Government Street

20. Cruise around in a Hot Tub Boat

Cruise around the Upper Harbour and Gorge Waterway in style… in a hot tub boat! Seriously, you can sit in a hot tub while exploring the coastline! Doesn’t that sound amazing?

Renting a hot tub boat is truly a unique experience to view the waterway. Offered by Hot Tub Boat Victoria , you can relax in hot water that is heated by an onboard stove while touring the waterway. The rentals come with a Bluetooth speaker, water bottles, and dry bags to protect your phones.

Each boat sits up to 6 people, so you can bring friends or take the hot tub boat out on a romantic cruise for two. After soaking in a hot tub boat, you won’t look at normal hot tubs the same way ever again!

Cost: $65 per person Time: By scheduled bookings Duration: 2 hours Location: 450 Swift Street

Unique places to stay in Victoria, BC

In addition to these unusual things to do in Victoria, there are many unique places to stay when you’re visiting this BC city. Here, we’ve listed a few of the more unique accommodations within the city. All of these hotels are great choices for your vacation. Each hotel has its own unique features and charm that you will definitely enjoy!

• Fisherman’s Wharf Floating Bed & Breakfast – A whimsical floating houseboat B&B in Fisherman’s Wharf
• Amethyst Inn – A historic Victorian heritage inn which feels like you’re staying in the 19th century
• The Craigmyle – Enjoy views of the Craigdarroch Castle, right out of your window

Unique Restaurant Experiences in Victoria, BC

After trying out some of these unusual things to do in Victoria, you might be looking for a more unique or unusual restaurant experience. Here, we’ve listed some unique dining experiences that you can have in Victoria.

Pedal pub crawl: Pedal between restaurants in style with The Rolling Barrel , a multi-person bike that will tour you around Victoria’s amazing restaurants. This bike sits up to 15 people, but you need at least 10 to get it rolling. While you can’t eat or drink alcohol on the bike, it’s a really unique way to explore Victoria’s iconic pubs and downtown area. Each tour is 2 hours, with three stops at various restaurants. It’s a lot of fun and a great experience!

Water taxi pub crawl: Another unique restaurant experience that Victoria offers is the Pickle Pub Crawl , a tour between the best pubs of Victoria by boat! For groups of four people, the water taxi will cruise around the harbor, stopping at all of Victoria’s best watering holes. While you can’t eat or drink in the water taxi, they give each group one complimentary appetizer per restaurant with beverage purchases. This pub crawl experience is really unique to Victoria and definitely unforgettable!

Other Things to Do and Attractions around Victoria

If you’re still looking for more things to do, here are a few more ideas:

• Hang out on the beach: Explore the beautiful beaches around the city or lay your towel out on one of the relaxing sandy beaches . There are also many wheelchair-accessible beaches around Victoria if you can’t do the stairs found on many of the other beaches.
• Take a day-trip to a Gulf Island: These beautiful islands are just off the coast near Victoria. Our favorite is Galiano Island because it’s got a lot of things to do and we love the white shell beach at Montague Harbour. Don’t know how to get to Galiano Island? Here’s a guide for getting to Galiano Island from Victoria!
• Walk along the ocean: If you’re in Victoria, you have to explore all the oceanside pathways around the city! Try the popular Ogden Point Breakwater near downtown Victoria, the nearby Dallas Road Waterfront Trail, or the Songhees Walkway.
• Look for some waterfalls near Victoria : There are so many waterfalls near the city to choose form. Some of our favorites are the waterfalls at Sandcut Beach in Jordan River Regional Park , Mystic Beach and Sombrio Beach in the Juan de Fuca Provincial Park, and Niagara Falls at Goldstream Provincial Park.
• Celebrate the holidays: If its around the winter holidays, here are some festive things to do around Victoria .
• Explore the rest of Vancouver Island: Head up island and explore some of the other attractions on the island!

Final Words

Victoria is a beautiful city and we highly recommend visiting it, whether you enjoy activities that are touristy or more unique. The city has lots of attractions and you will always be able to find lots to do. It’s one of our favorite places in British Columbia and we love getting to explore everything that the city has to offer. Hopefully, this list of unusual things to do in Victoria is helpful to you in planning your vacation or finding new ways to explore the city!

Top Travel Tips & Resources for Victoria, BC

• Travel Insurance – If you’re travelling internationally, travel insurance is a must for any trip. Being covered by insurance is especially important when you’re going to an adventure-filled place like British Columbia. If you injure yourself while adventuring, you want to have insurance! We recommend using SafetyWing for international travel insurance. They are affordable and have great policies for travellers, digital nomads, and remote workers. Also, SafetyWing provides COVID-19 coverage, which many other insurance companies don’t cover.
• Car Rental – We find the best deal on vehicle rental prices using RentalCars.com . They compare the prices for different car rental companies so you can find the best deals out there!
• Accommodations – We prefer booking all of our hotels, hostels, and other accommodations through Booking.com because they have a flexible cancellation policy. Also, there are lots of different options on their platform, from hotels to vacation homes. Alternatively, Expedia and Hotels.com are good for booking accommodations. For vacation home rentals, VRBO is an excellent choice (they have lower fees than Airbnb, many of the same properties, and are more ethical).
• Flights – You’ll find many good flight deals on Skyscanner or Google Flights. You can book flights through these websites and they’ll help you find the best prices and flight times. If you fly at less popular times (e.g. mid-week or red-eye flights), you can also save some money.
• Tours – Get the most out of your vacation by taking a guided tour! This is a great way to see the city, adventure to exciting new locations, and learn about the local culture. Viator or GetYourGuide are great options for booking tours.

Related posts:

• 36 Best Things to Do in Victoria, BC
• Ultimate 2-Day Itinerary for a Seattle to Victoria Trip
• One Day in Victoria, BC: Itinerary & Where to Go in 24 Hours
• 9 Wheelchair Accessible Beaches around Victoria, BC
• 11 Most Beautiful Beaches in Victoria, BC
• 15 Festive Things to Do at Christmas in Victoria, BC (2023)

Hey, I'm Nicole! I've travelled all over the world but my favorite place is British Columbia. I've lived in Victoria, BC since 2019 and spend most of my free time travelling around BC. My goal is to explore as much of this beautiful province as possible. Along the way I'll be sharing travel tips with you!

Willows Beach, Victoria: Complete Beach Guide

10 best sandy beaches in victoria, bc.

8 fun things to do in Victoria this weekend: May 24 to 26

There’s something about the chaos of summer in Victoria that’s exhilarating: everyone’s going out, indulging, and enjoying the fruits of their labour. We’ve earned it.

So, treat yourself to any number of these eight fun events going on this weekend, and embrace the chaos!

PROM: Live Art, Music, & Drag at the Edelweiss Club

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Tasha Cadence Productions (@tcadenceproductions)

Relive your prom fantasies and kick off the summer with this 1980s-themed prom for any and all persons who like fun, fashion and fundraising for communities in need (portions of the proceeds will go towards Raven Trust ).

Where : 108 Niagara Street, Victoria When : Saturday, May 25; starts at 7 pm Tickets : $35 online ; $40 at the door

Ultimate Toy Fair at Pearkes Recreation Centre

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Cherry Bomb Toys (@cherrybombtoys)

Cherry Bomb Toys will host this ultimate toy extravaganza at Pearkes Recreation Centre this Saturday and Sunday from 9 am to 3 pm, with around 200 different tables set up with unique, rare, used and new collectibles for sale.

Where: 3100 Tillicum Road When: Saturday, May 25 and Sunday, May 26, from 9 am to 3 pm Tickets : $5 at the door; kids free

Drew Lynch at the Royal Theatre

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Drew Lynch (@thedrewlynch)

Where: 805 Broughton Street, Victoria When: Friday, May 24; starts at 8 pm Tickets: Between $50 to $75 online or at the door

Jann Arden and Rick Mercer at the McPherson Playhouse

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Rick Mercer (@itsrickmercer)

Singer Jann Arden and comedian Rick Mercer are together for a free-wheeling, unscripted, unrehearsed and unrestrained discussion about their careers in Canada.

Where : 3 Centennial Square, Victoria When : Sunday, May 26; starts at 8 pm Tickets :  $83 online

Super Smash Bros Ultimate Tournament

Check out the Fernwood Community Centre every Friday evening for its Super Smash Bros Ultimate Tournaments! (Bring your own controller!) They also run other fighting games, such as Tekken 8 and Street Fighter, on a rotating weekly basis. This week is Smash Ultimate and Tekken.

Where : 1240 Gladstone Avenue, Victoria When : Every Friday at 5:30 pm Admission : Bring your own controller!

Pop Punk Music Live at Little Fernwood

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Pop Punk Night (@pop_punk.night)

Grab your friends and sing along to each band performing a pop-punk anthem we grew up on, alongside some new original music from local bands.

Where : 1921 Fernwood Road #8, Victoria When : Sunday, May 26; doors at 5 pm Tickets : $15 online or at Cavity Curiosity Shop or $20 at the door

Zero-proof mocktail workshop at Vessel Liquor

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Vessel Liquor (@vesselliquor)

Non-alcoholic spirits have exploded in recent years, and this Saturday at Vessel Liquor, the team will show you how to use them to make delicious mocktails for the upcoming sunny months.

Where : Cru’s Nest, above Vessel Liquor at 1609 Fort Street, Victoria When : Saturday, May 25, from 4:30 to 6 pm Tickets : $29 + fees at the door

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Party N Bullsh*t at Lucky Bar

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Lucky Bar (@luckybaryyj)

Where : 517 Yates Street, Victoria When : Saturday, May 4, from 10 pm to 2 am Tickets : At the door

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