places to visit in victoria at night

THE 10 BEST Victoria Nightlife Activities

Nightlife in victoria.

• Bars & Clubs
• Bar, Club & Pub Tours
• Dance Clubs & Discos
• Gay Clubs & Bars
• Jazz Clubs & Bars
• Karaoke Bars
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Harris Green
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Budget-friendly
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for Big Groups
• Good for Kids
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Hidden Gems
• Adventurous
• Good for Couples
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Hermann's Jazz Club

2. Boyle's Tap

3. The Pedaler

4. Bartholomew's Pub

5. Garricks Head Pub

6. Swans Brewpub

7. Irish Times Pub

8. Lucky Bar

9. The Duke Saloon

10. Upstairs Cabaret

11. Lotteria karaoke

12. Rooftop Surf Club

14. Electric Avenue

15. Paparazzi Night Club

16. The Rolling Barrel

17. Felicitas Campus Pub

18. Grampians Wine Cellar

19. Ivanhoe Pub

20. Maude Hunter's Pub

21. rain dogs wine bar, 22. prairie inn pub.

23. Weston Tours

24. Spirit of Victoria Food Tours

25. Discovery Tours

26. LinkUp Tours

27. Cocktails: From Prohibition to Art!

28. Deanna Welke

29. YYJ Adventures

30. Lunch N Jump

What travelers are saying.

• The Pedaler
• Weston Tours
• Spirit of Victoria Food Tours
• Discovery Tours
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• Swans Brewpub
• Boyle's Tap

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Must Do Canada

The Best Things to Do in Canada

22 of the Best Things to Do in Victoria, BC

May 5, 2020 By Matthew G. Bailey 13 Comments

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Things to Do in Victoria – Last updated: January 10th, 2023

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

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).

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.

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 firework 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 moves 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.

Do 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!

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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Victoria at Night: A Guide to Nighttime Enchantment

Table of Contents

As the sun sets in Victoria, British Columbia, the city reveals an ethereal charm with the rising moon. Known for its daytime allure, Victoria transforms at night, promising enchanting possibilities. Steeped in history, culture, and natural beauty, the transition to night unveils hidden gems, inviting visitors and locals to immerse themselves in the city's unique allure. Join us to experience Victoria at night!

Discover the enchantment of Victoria with our Ultra Small Group Tours!

Things to do in Victoria at Night:

Night artistry: exploring the art gallery.

Discover the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria at night. Wander through captivating art exhibits showcasing local and international artists. Take advantage of free admission on Wednesday evenings for the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of art after hours. Whether you're a local or a visitor, explore the vibrant and diverse art scene in the evening.

Starry Night Cruise: Victoria's Enchanting Scenic Boat Excursion

Embark on a magical journey with our night-time scenic boat tour in Victoria, BC. Glide under the stars, discovering the city's beauty illuminated in a whole new light. This enchanting experience offers a fresh perspective on Victoria's coastal charm.  Join us for an unforgettable adventure , capturing the essence of this picturesque destination after dark.

 Moonlit Majesty: Night Hiking on Mount Tolmie

Embark on a rewarding night hike up Mount Tolmie, where the challenge and beauty unfold under the moonlight. Reach the summit to witness panoramic views of the city. This adventure offers a unique and captivating experience, making Mount Tolmie's night hike a must for those craving both a physical challenge and stunning nocturnal scenery.

Ghostly Gastown: Victoria's Haunting Stories

Join the Ghostly Gastown Tour for a spooky journey through Victoria's historic district. Uncover chilling tales of ghosts, delving into hidden secrets. Whether you're a thrill-seeker or a history enthusiast, this tour promises an entertaining experience. Explore the eerie side of Gastown, as your guide brings Victoria's ghostly past to life in a spine-tingling and intriguing way.

Harmonious Nights: Jazz Delights at Hermann's Jazz Club

Experience the enchanting melodies of jazz at Hermann's Jazz Club at night. Immerse yourself in the intimate ambiance of this renowned venue as talented musicians weave smooth sounds that captivate your senses. Whether you're a jazz enthusiast or a casual listener, Hermann's Jazz Club offers a must-visit experience. Enjoy an unforgettable evening of soulful tunes in the heart of Victoria.

Upstairs Cabaret: Glamorous Nights in Victoria

Step into the allure of Upstairs Cabaret, a historic venue offering captivating cabaret performances. Enjoy an evening filled with singers, dancers, and mesmerizing burlesque acts for a unique and glamorous night out. Upstairs Cabaret in the heart of Victoria promises an unforgettable escape into a world of talent and glamor.

Lucky Bar: Vibes, Brews, and Live Music

Lucky Bar invites you to sway to the rhythm of indie bands, rock groups, and DJs in a lively pub with a friendly atmosphere. Grab a craft beer and immerse yourself in the energetic vibes. For an unforgettable night of live performances and good times, visit Lucky Bar in downtown Victoria. Let the music and friendly atmosphere make your evening one to remember!

Nighttime Delights: Culinary Adventures

Embark on a culinary adventure at the Victoria Public Market in downtown Victoria. Explore a variety of international eats, fresh seafood, and delightful baked goods from lively stalls. As the sun sets, the market transforms into a vibrant hub of flavors, offering the perfect opportunity to savor delicious treats while enjoying the lively atmosphere in the heart of the city.

Victoria at Night: Places to Visit

Harbor tranquility: evening delights at fisherman's wharf.

As the sun sets, Fisherman's Wharf, renowned for its vibrant colors and floating homes, transforms into a tranquil haven. The gentle lapping of water against the docks creates a soothing soundtrack as you stroll through this picturesque waterfront community. Savor fish and chips from a local vendor or indulge in an ice cream cone, immersing yourself in the serene ambiance of a quiet harbor night in Victoria.

Night Tranquility: Exploring Beacon Hill Park's Urban Oasis

Explore Beacon Hill Park for a serene nocturnal experience. The manicured gardens and tranquil pathways offer a peaceful retreat from the urban buzz. Explore as local musicians may serenade the night with melodies, adding spontaneity to your journey through Victoria's green oasis. Immerse yourself in the calming ambiance of this urban retreat, creating a tranquil escape within the heart of Victoria's vibrant cityscape.

Credit: Friends of Beacon Hill Park/Website

Moonlit Majesty: Victoria's Landmarks under the Starry Night

Discover Victoria's charm at night beyond its famous landmarks. The British Columbia Parliament Buildings and the Fairmont Empress Hotel, stunning in the daytime, take on new beauty under the moonlight. See their reflections on the water, creating a magical dance of lights at night. Capture the enchantment as these architectural marvels shimmer in the moonlit surroundings.

Moonlit Butchart: Nighttime Enchantment

Under the moonlight, Butchart Gardens becomes a magical realm. Imagine cascading fountains like sparkling diamonds, fragrant flowers glowing in firefly light, and music serenading under a starry sky. Moonlight tours share secrets, offer romantic picnics, or invite simple wanderings. From fireflies to jazz, Butchart Gardens at night promises an  unforgettable escape where nature's symphony meets the enchanting glow of the moonlight.

Credit: Mario Mendez/unsplash

Best Victoria BC Night Tour:

Scenic victoria small group night tour: .

Tripshepherd offers a 4-hour scenic small group tour of Victoria for up to 7 people. Explore the enchanting beauty of Victoria at night with an illuminated city tour, a scenic boat excursion, and the  magical ambiance of Butchart Gardens. Book now for an unforgettable evening filled with breathtaking sights and captivating experiences.

What's Included:

• Stroll through Butchart Gardens
• Relax on the Victoria Harbour Cruise
• Pass by  BC Parliament Buildings
• Narrated driving tour of Victoria
• Intimate, guided experience
• Local pick-up and drop-off in downtown Victoria
• Transportation in our complimentary vehicles

Experience the magical beauty of Victoria at night with our Guided Tour!

How many nights do you need in Victoria BC?

For an ideal and comprehensive visit to Victoria, British Columbia, consider spending at least three nights in the city. That way, you’ll have a chance to check out some of the city’s most iconic landmarks, explore some of Victoria’s cultural hotspots, and explore some of the lesser-known corners and neighborhoods.

On your first night in Victoria, delve into  iconic attractions . Begin with a stroll along the Inner Harbour, where the illuminated Parliament Buildings and the iconic Fairmont Empress Hotel create a picturesque setting. Conclude your evening with a delightful dinner at one of the waterfront restaurants.

On your second night in Victoria, dive into cultural exploration by visiting institutions like the Royal BC Museum for an enriching experience. Attend a captivating live performance at a local theater, letting the arts shape your night. Conclude the evening with a culinary journey through Victoria's renowned dining scene, savoring the city's diverse flavors.

On the third night, explore Victoria's neighborhoods like Fernwood, uncover hidden cafes in Cook Street Village, and enjoy a stroll through Beacon Hill Park. This final evening offers a chance to connect with the local community and experience the authentic charm that defines Victoria beyond its famous landmarks.

Final Thoughts:

So, explore Victoria's twilight magic, where history and modern vibrancy blend seamlessly. The city comes alive after dark, offering enchanting experiences from artistic performances to culinary delights. Each night in Victoria paints a timeless canvas of memories that will linger long after you leave. Make your journey memorable with  Tripshepherd , your guide to uncovering the city's nocturnal charm.

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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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12 amazing things to do in victoria bc.

Victoria, the charming capital city of British Columbia, Canada, is one of the most picturesque cities on the Pacific Coast. Due to its close proximity to Seattle (a 3-hour ferry ride from downtown) and Vancouver, Canada (3 hours by car + ferry), it’s the perfect destination for anyone who’s exploring the Pacific Northwest or looking for a weekend away.

I’ve been to Victoria many times and each visit is more inspiring than the last. There are a lot of layers to Victoria and the more time you spend there, the more you’ll love it. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a quaint British village from the moment you arrive.

If you’re just starting to plan a trip, we want to share 12 amazing things to do in Victoria BC, so you can add them to your itinerary. These are our favorites that we do every time we visit.

» Interested in other parts of Canada? Read our full Canada travel guide for inspiration and additional tips. Also see our road trip guide . We also have info on Montreal and Toronto .

Planning a trip to Victoria?

Where to stay.

• Fairmont Empress  – Gorgeous Edwardian hotel on the harbor.
• Victoria Marriott Inner Harbour  – Beautifully renovated property near major attractions.

Best Tours and Experiences

• Half-Day Whale Watching Adventure – 3-hr cruise through the Haro Strait to spot whales
• Victoria Guided Food and History Tour – Morning and afternoon times to fit your schedule
• Private Butchart Gardens & Victoria Highlights tour – A great introduction to Victoria for first-time visitors

Table of Contents

Best Things to Do & Attractions in Victoria, British Columbia

#1 gardens everywhere – butchart gardens.

Butchart Gardens is a world renown collection of beautiful gardens with plants from around the world. It is one of the most-visited attractions in Victoria BC, thanks to its 55 acres of gardens, and 900 bedding plant varieties. There’s a Japanese garden, a rose garden, and an Italian garden and these are partially good to visit in Spring, but also fantastic all year round.

Besides the displays, there’s a carousel, guided walks, greenhouse tours, boat rides and night time illuminations. It’s a quick trip to get there from the center of town. You can drive in just 30 minutes, or take a bus in one hour. It’s open all year round. Prices for tickets vary depending on time of year (it’s more expensive during the Christmas season). 

If you don’t have a car, the best way to get there is on a Butchart Gardens Tour from Victoria . This tour includes shuttle service from downtown Victoria with a choice of departures and return times throughout the day.

#2 Afternoon Tea

As we mentioned, Victoria feels very British, and one of the things you have to do while there is a proper afternoon tea. The most well-known place in town for afternoon tea is the Fairmont Empress Hotel . The afternoon tea experience at this hotel is a truly unique experience that is both fancy and enjoyable.

Be prepared to make reservations well in advance and pay a high price (around $89/pp) for the opportunity.

A fantastic alternative for those not wanting such a fancy tea or price, is to have afternoon tea at the Pendray Inn and Tea House (part of the Huntingdon Manor Hotel), just across from the Victoria harbour. The experience is elegant, yet quite a bit more casual than at the Empress, and the scones are to die for! Tea is available from Friday to Sunday 11am to 4pm and costs around $56/pp.

#3 Great Craft Breweries

Victoria is home to many great craft breweries and alehouses. There’s even an entire week devoted to beer (Victoria Beer Week). Depending on the time of year, you might also have a chance to attend the Craft Beer Show at the end of November.

Victoria is home to Canada’s first brewpub, Spinnakers, which forged the beer revolution in Victoria. Now there are dozens of breweries you can visit inside and around the city.

Try out one of the suggested itineraries of the BC Ale Trail , which will take you to breweries like Phillips Brewing, Driftwood Brewery, and Swans Brewery which is great if you are on a adult only trip There are quite a few cideries now, as well.

West Coast Brewery Tours offers a Victoria Craft Brewery Tour with Tastings that you can participate in. A local beer-loving guide will take you to visit 3 boutique and small-batch breweries aboard a ‘brew bus’. Along the way, you’ll sample seasonal pilsners, porters, IPAs and more.

#4 Beautiful Architecture – Parliament Buildings & The Fairmont Empress Hotel

If you’re running out of ideas for what to do in Victoria BC, you definitely haven’t looked around you. So many of the buildings in Victoria are stunning, including the Fairmont Empress Hotel , which also happens to be a great place to stay while in Victoria, because it’s so centrally located.

Take a stroll around town and admire the architecture. Be sure to check out the Royal British Museum and the BC Parliament Buildings , home to the Legislative Assembly.

When the sun goes down at night, the Parliament Building lights up with thousands of beautiful white lights – 3,600 to be exact. It’s a great sight you can’t miss. The BC Parliament Buildings provide guided and self-guided tours year round.

#5 See the Sea Lions at Victoria Harbor & Victoria’s Fisherman’s Wharf

How can you resist this face? These harbor seals pop up all over Victoria harbor, you just have to watch out for them. A great place to see the sea life and maybe catch a glimpse of a sea lion or two is from Victoria’s Fisherman’s Wharf, which is also where you’ll find the houseboats shown below, plus a handful of really great seafood stands where you can get fresh crab and other shellfish for a quick lunch or dinner.

Oak Bay Marina is another possible place to spot sea lions, though don’t expect to see too many, because it’s illegal to feed them, making them a bit more scarce these days.

If you’re really intent on seeing sea lions, otters, and maybe even some whales, you should book a Victoria Whale and Wildlife Cruise with Eagle Wing Whale Watching Tours. It’s a guided 3.5-hour cruise from Fisherman’s Wharf where you can hopefully see seals, sea lions, otters and porpoises as well as bald eagles and marine birds. Victoria is one of the best places in Canada to go whale watching .

#6 Victoria Harbour

One of my favorite things in Victoria is watching the sea planes land in the harbour. It’s great fun to watch them glide across the glassy water. There is always a ton of water activity going on in the harbour to watch, and since you can walk almost all the way around, there are plenty of places to watch it from.

If you fancy going on a seaplane right, you can book a panoramic Seaplane Tour with Harbour Air Seaplanes. It’s a 20-minute ride that offers an unforgettable aerial perspective of the harbor, coastline, Strait of Juan de Fuca and the Olympic Mountains towering in the distance.

Another great way to experience the harbor is on a boat. See #10.

#7 So Much Beautiful Water to Explore

Victoria Harbour is always alive with activity. There are hundreds of boats in the marina, many of which are taken out every day or weekend. If you don’t have the luxury of owning your own boat, it’s no problem because there are many charter companies just waiting to whisk you out to sea.

Whether you’re looking for a calm afternoon cruise in a sailboat or an adventurous kayak tour, you can do it from Victoria Harbor. Here are a few of our favorite tours.

• Victoria Harbour Kayak Tour
• Hot Tub Boat Victoria (yes, it’s a hot tub boat!)
• Victoria Sunset Whale-Watching Cruise
• Victoria Harbour Stand-Up Paddleboard Tour

#8 Gorgeous Landscapes and Landmarks

The rhododendrons and azaleas alone are reason enough for me to visit Victoria in the spring. These beautiful flowers are everywhere around town in April, brightening up the place – as if it needed more help. One of the best places to see these beautiful flowers (aside from Butchart Gardens), is along David Foster Harbour Pathway leading from Centennial Park to Fisherman’s Wharf.

Totem poles are also a landscape element you’ll see around Victoria BC. You’ll see some in Spirit Square in Centennial Park. It features two Spirit Poles, known as the “Two Brothers” that serve as a gateway to this public space. Thunderbird Park, next to the Royal British Columbia Museum, is home to many totem poles and other First Nation monuments. One of the tallest totem poles in the world can be found Beacon Hill Park.

#9 So Much Green Space

If you’re looking for a little respite from walking around, you’re in luck because there is green space galore in Victoria. The lawn outside the Parliament building is a great green space where people often hang out on nice days. You wouldn’t be out of place to spread out a blanket and enjoy the people watching.

Centennial Park and Thunderbird park also have open green space in the center of the action, where you can relax for a few minutes and enjoy the few peaceful moments. Outside of the Inner Harbor, there’s Beacon Hill Park and Abkhazi Garden, plus Clover Point Park and Oak Bay Marina.

#10 Castles & National Historic Buildings in Victoria

One of the main tourist sights in Victoria BC is a castle. There are actually two castles that you can visit in Victoria: Craigdarroch Castle and Hatley Castle.

The more popular of the two is Craigdarroch. Built by coal baron Robert Dunsmuir during the reign of Queen Victoria, Craigdarroch Castle has been meticulously restored, giving visitors a glimpse of privileged life in the 1890s. It’s now a National Historic Site. Plan your visit and book tickets here . There are also historical tours that happen throughout the year.

Hatley Castle is located on the grounds of Hatley Park and Royal Roads University in Victoria. It was commissioned by James Dunsmuir and completed by architect Samuel Maclure in 1908. Check the Hatley Park website for details about visiting.

#11 Tours, Food, & Entertainment

You will not run out of things to do in Victoria, even if you spend more than a week there. Tourist attractions are by the dozens, and you can get hooked up with any kind of tour just by talking with the tour touts that roam around the city center.

Victoria also offers family-friendly tours. Many tour operators have age-appropriate tours designed for children, including interactive museum tours, wildlife discovery tours, fun harbor cruises, and lots of things to do in Victoria. Be sure to check with the tour provider to find family-friendly options.

We like to just take walks to different parts of the city and check out the sights, which is how we came across this awesome street art. You can also go on an organized tour, which is a great way to discover the food, the history, the art, and the outdoor activities. Here are a few that we recommend.

• Victoria Guided Food and History Tour
• Victoria Canopy Zipline Tour
• Victoria Heritage Horse-Drawn Carriage Tour
• Victoria BC’s Secret Streets and Hidden Alleyways

#12 Walking Around Victoria at Night is Enchanting

Victoria is so serene and lovely at night. It’s the perfect time for a walk around the harbor. One of the main attractions to see is the Parliament building all lit up with 3,600 white lights. The lights come on at dusk, so the time changes based on sunset. During the summer, you can expect to wait until much later – even 9 p.m. – before the lights come on, while in winter it’s much earlier. The Empress Hotel is also beautiful to see as it reflects on the water.

Victoria is known as one of the most haunted cities in Canada , and there are several top rated ghost tours that operate at night. The schedule is May 1 to October 31 it runs every night and the rest of the year it’s Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. It is best to book them as soon as you can because they can sell out fast. Get more information here .

Victoria’s Night Markets are a popular attraction during the summer months, featuring food, crafts, and live music.

How to Get to Victoria BC

From Seattle , the trip to Victoria is an easy one. You just hop on the Victoria Clipper , which is a 3-hour ferry ride over to Victoria. In the high season, be sure to book in advance. There are other ways to get there, like driving though Vancouver Island, which itself is one of the most beautiful places in the Northwest.

Once you arrive, you’ll be overwhelmed by the charm and beauty of this place. Victoria is incredibly enchanting. To help plan your trip, check out this Ultimate Guide to Victoria .

Where to Stay in Victoria BC

We’ve already mentioned that the Fairmont Empress is a great place to stay while visiting Victoria, but it can be a little expensive during the high season.

Here are a few more of our favorites. These are all super close to each other, and right on the harbour. You really can’t go wrong here. You can use these links to read more reviews or see prices and book your stay:

• Hotel Grand Pacific: Very nice 4* in close proximity to the ferry, harbour, Beacon Hill Park, and Parliament buildings – See reviews on  Trip Advisor or book on Expedia.com
• Inn at Laurel Point : Very close to everything, stunning views of the harbor from the rooms – See reviews on  Trip Advisor or book on Expedia.com

Getting Around in Victoria BC

Walking : Victoria is great for pedestrian-friendly streets and mild climate. The downtown area, Inner Harbour, and surrounding neighborhoods are perfect for exploring on foot. Stroll along Government Street, admire the historic buildings and stop by shops, restaurants, and museums. The city’s compact layout makes it easy to discover hidden gems by walking.

Biking : If you prefer two wheels to two feet, Victoria is a bike-friendly city. The extensive network of bike lanes and scenic trails, like the Galloping Goose Regional Trail, offers cyclists a convenient and enjoyable way to explore the city. You can rent bikes from various shops and rental companies in the city.

Public Transportation : The Victoria Regional Transit System (BC Transit) provides an efficient and affordable way to get around. Buses cover the city and its suburbs, making it easy to reach popular destinations. You can purchase single fares or day passes, and schedules are available online or at transit centers.

Ferry : Ferries connect the city with destinations like Vancouver, the Gulf Islands, and the United States . You can also enjoy boat tours and water taxis to explore the Inner Harbour and nearby points of interest.

Taxis and Ride-Sharing : Taxis are readily available in Victoria, and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft operate in the city. These options provide convenient transportation, especially for travelers who prefer door-to-door service.

Frequently Asked Questions about Visiting Victoria

When is the best time to visit victoria, bc.

Victoria is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit depends on your preferences. Summer (June to August) offers pleasant weather for outdoor activities, while spring and fall are less crowded and often have milder temperatures. Winter is ideal for holiday lights, winter events, and indoor attractions.

Are there any family-friendly activities in Victoria?

Yes, Victoria is a great destination for families. Kids will love the Victoria Bug Zoo, Miniature World, and Beacon Hill Park with its petting zoo and playgrounds. Whale-watching tours are also suitable for families.

A re there any special events or festivals in Victoria I should know about?

Victoria hosts numerous great events and festivals throughout the year. Some notable ones include the Victoria Dragon Boat Festival, Victoria International JazzFest, and the famous Symphony Splash concert on the Inner Harbour. In Spring there is an event called “Victoria Beer Week” which showcases British columbia craft breweries in unique event settings across Greater Victoria.

Are there professional sports teams in Victoria?

Watching sports is a popular pastime in Victoria and is home to several official professional and semi-professional sports teams, including the Victoria Royals (Western Hockey League – WHL) for ice hockey, Pacific FC (Canadian Premier League – CPL) for soccer, and the Victoria HarbourCats (West Coast League – WCL) for baseball.

What is the standard tipping etiquette in Victoria ?

The standard tipping etiquette is similar to the rest of Canada. It is customary to tip service workers in various industries, typically around 15-20% of the total bill. You can tip with either cash or credit cards most restaurants and businesses accept both forms of payment.

More on Canada

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Be Prepared For Travel Planning is the most important part of any successful trip. Do it the easy way:

🧳 Travel Packing List | ✔️ Why You Need Travel Insurance | ✈️ What to Do Before You Leave Home

• Find and book the best hotel (our favorite booking site is Expedia)
• Research flight options (our favorite tool is Skyscanner )
• Book a tour (we always use Viator to find the best tours)
• Rent a car through Discover Cars (they search the best deals for you!)

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Laura Lynch, creator and writer of Savored Journeys, is an avid world traveler, certified wine expert, and international food specialist. She has written about travel and food for over 20 years and has visited over 75 countries. Her work has been published in numerous guidebooks, websites, and magazines.

6 thoughts on “ 12 Amazing Things to Do in Victoria BC ”

Lovely photos! I’m adding Victoria onto my list!

Great list Laura! I’ll let any of your readers know that if they mention you when booking a hiking tour here with us I’ll give them 25% off! Check us out and if you come back I’ll take you both on a journey no charge!

That’s very kind of you!

Hi. Those are the Legislative buildings. The Parliament buildings are in Ottawa Ontario. Nice photos.

Want to see the island. Beautiful picture. Do they have camping lot for rv ?

Yes, there are a few RV lots: Fort Victoria RV Park and Salish Seaside RV Haven are two to check out.

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What To Do In Victoria, BC At Night Cruise Stop

Published: December 22, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Rosemary Apple

• Arts & Culture
• Travel Destinations
• Travel Tips

Introduction

Victoria, British Columbia is a city that truly comes alive at night. Nestled on the southern tip of Vancouver Island, this picturesque city is a popular port of call for cruise ships. While the daytime hours are filled with exploring historical landmarks, indulging in outdoor activities, and strolling through charming neighborhoods, the nighttime in Victoria offers a different kind of magic.

As the sun sets, the city transforms into a vibrant hub of activity, with plenty of options to suit every interest. Whether you’re a foodie looking to sample local cuisine, a culture enthusiast seeking entertainment, or an adventurer eager to explore the outdoors, Victoria has something for everyone after dark.

In this article, we’ll explore the best activities to enjoy at night during your cruise stop in Victoria, BC. From delicious dining options to lively nightlife, unique sightseeing experiences to outdoor adventures, you’ll discover a myriad of ways to make the most of your time in this captivating city.

So, get ready to immerse yourself in the lively ambiance of Victoria, BC, as we delve into the top things to do when the sun goes down. Whether you prefer to unwind with a cozy dinner, embrace the cultural scene, or embark on an adrenaline-pumping adventure, Victoria will exceed your expectations and leave you with unforgettable memories.

Popular Nighttime Activities in Victoria, BC

When the stars come out, Victoria, BC offers a plethora of amazing nighttime activities to keep you entertained. Whether you’re seeking a cultural experience, a leisurely stroll, or an adrenaline rush, the city has something for everyone. Here are some popular nighttime activities to consider during your cruise stop:

• Visit the Inner Harbour: Start off your evening by taking a leisurely stroll along the Inner Harbour. Admire the stunning views of the Parliament Buildings, the iconic Empress Hotel, and the bustling waterfront. The area is beautifully lit up at night, creating a captivating experience.
• Experience the Royal BC Museum: If you’re a history buff or have an interest in culture, the Royal BC Museum is a must-visit. This renowned museum showcases fascinating exhibits on British Columbia’s history, along with First Nations art and culture. Some evenings, they even offer special events and exhibits exclusively for nighttime visitors.
• Enjoy a Ghostly Walk: Experience Victoria’s rich history and spooky tales with a guided ghostly walk. Wander through the historic streets and alleys as knowledgeable guides share creepy stories and legends. It’s an entertaining and spine-tingling way to explore the city under the cover of darkness.
• Take a Horse-Drawn Carriage Ride: Step back in time by taking a romantic horse-drawn carriage ride through the charming streets of Victoria. Snuggle up under a blanket as you listen to the clip-clop of the horse’s hooves, while a knowledgeable driver shares interesting tidbits about the city’s history.
• Watch a Performance at the Royal Theatre: If you appreciate the arts, head to the historic Royal Theatre for an evening of entertainment. This beautiful venue hosts a variety of performances, including live theater productions, concerts, and dance performances. Check the schedule to see what’s playing during your visit.

These are just a few examples of the many nighttime activities available in Victoria, BC. Depending on your interests, there are countless options to fill your evenings with fun and excitement. Whether you choose to explore the city’s history, enjoy a leisurely stroll, or immerse yourself in the arts, Victoria’s vibrant nighttime scene will leave you enthralled.

Dining Options in Victoria, BC

When it comes to dining, Victoria, BC is a food lover’s paradise. With its diverse culinary scene and emphasis on fresh, local ingredients, the city offers a wide variety of dining options to satisfy any palate. Whether you’re in the mood for upscale fine dining or casual street food, Victoria has it all. Here are some dining experiences to consider during your cruise stop:

• Inner Harbour Restaurants: If you’re looking for a waterfront dining experience, head to one of the many restaurants along the Inner Harbour. Enjoy a romantic dinner with panoramic views of the harbor while indulging in locally-sourced seafood or international cuisine.
• Farm-to-Table Delights: Victoria is renowned for its farm-to-table dining scene. Many restaurants in the city pride themselves on using fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, showcasing the best of Vancouver Island’s bounty. From organic vegetables to artisanal cheeses, your taste buds will thank you.
• Food Trucks and Night Markets: For a more casual dining experience, explore the city’s food truck scene or visit one of the night markets. These vibrant outdoor venues offer a variety of gourmet street food, allowing you to sample different flavors while enjoying the lively atmosphere.
• High Tea at The Fairmont Empress: Indulge in a quintessential British tradition by treating yourself to high tea at The Fairmont Empress. Savor a selection of fine teas, delicate pastries, and finger sandwiches while enjoying the luxurious ambiance of this iconic hotel.
• Breweries and Distilleries: If you’re a fan of craft beer or spirits, Victoria has a thriving brewery and distillery scene. Take a tour of a local brewery or distillery and sample their unique creations. From hoppy IPAs to artisanal gin, you’ll discover a range of flavors to tantalize your taste buds.

These are just a few examples of the dining options available in Victoria, BC. Whether you’re a food enthusiast or simply looking for a memorable culinary experience, the city offers a wide array of choices. From elegant waterfront dining to laid-back food trucks, you’ll find something to suit every taste and budget.

Nightlife and Entertainment in Victoria, BC

Victoria, BC may be known for its tranquil beauty during the day, but don’t be fooled – the city also boasts a vibrant and exciting nightlife scene. From live music venues to trendy bars, there is no shortage of options for entertainment after dark. Here are some of the top nightlife experiences to enjoy during your cruise stop:

• Live Music at The Strathcona Hotel: If you’re a music lover, head to The Strathcona Hotel, a local hotspot for live performances. With multiple venues under one roof, you can catch a variety of live acts ranging from local bands to national touring artists. Dance the night away to the rhythm of talented musicians and immerse yourself in the energetic atmosphere.
• Cocktail Bars and Speakeasies: For those seeking a sophisticated evening filled with unique libations, Victoria is home to several exquisite cocktail bars and hidden speakeasies. Indulge in expertly crafted cocktails made from premium spirits, served in stylish and intimate settings. These establishments offer the perfect ambiance for a memorable night out.
• Comedy Shows: Laugh the night away at one of Victoria’s comedy clubs. Enjoy stand-up performances by local comedians or check out the schedule for touring acts. Get ready for an evening filled with humor and entertainment that will leave you in stitches.
• Casino Fun: Feeling lucky? Visit one of the city’s casinos for some thrilling gaming action. Try your hand at poker, blackjack, or slot machines, and soak up the energetic atmosphere as you place your bets. If gambling isn’t your thing, casinos often have live entertainment and dining options to enjoy as well.
• Late-Night Dancing: Get your dancing shoes on and hit the clubs for a night of dancing and fun. Victoria has a variety of nightclubs and dance venues that cater to different music genres and vibes. Whether you prefer electronic beats, hip-hop, or top 40 hits, you’ll find a spot to dance the night away.

These are just a few examples of the nightlife and entertainment options available in Victoria, BC. Whether you’re in the mood for live music, comedy, casino gaming, or dancing, the city offers a diverse range of experiences. So, put on your party shoes and get ready for a night filled with excitement and unforgettable memories.

Sightseeing and Tours at Night in Victoria, BC

Victoria, BC is a city that is equally captivating at night as it is during the day. In fact, exploring the city’s landmarks and attractions under the shimmering night sky can add a touch of magic to your cruise stop. Here are some sightseeing and tour options to consider for an enchanting nighttime experience:

• Evening City Walking Tour: Embark on an evening city walking tour and discover Victoria’s charm illuminated by the city lights. Stroll through historic neighborhoods, learn about the city’s fascinating history, and hear stories about the ghostly tales that have intrigued locals and visitors for generations.
• Harbour Cruises: Take a romantic evening cruise along the Inner Harbour and enjoy breathtaking views of the city’s iconic landmarks. See the Parliament Buildings, the Empress Hotel, and the impressive floating homes as they twinkle under the night sky. Some cruises even offer dinner or live music options to enhance your experience.
• Historical Ghost Tours: Delve into the eerie side of Victoria’s history with a guided ghost tour. Learn about haunted sites, spooky legends, and the city’s darker past as you explore dimly lit streets and alleyways. Be prepared for goosebumps and a thrilling adventure into the supernatural realms.
• Beacon Hill Park at Night: Visit Beacon Hill Park after dark for a serene and tranquil experience. Take a moonlit stroll through the well-manicured gardens, listen to the sounds of nature, and enjoy the peaceful ambiance away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Don’t forget to look up at the night sky to catch a glimpse of the stars.
• Historic Landmark Illuminations: Many of Victoria’s historic landmarks, such as Craigdarroch Castle and Hatley Castle, offer special evening illuminations. Witness these architectural wonders come to life as they are bathed in dramatic lighting, creating a magical and enchanting atmosphere.

These are just a few examples of the sightseeing and tour options available at night in Victoria, BC. Whether you choose to explore the city on foot, by boat, or through guided tours, experiencing the beauty of Victoria after dark will leave you with a sense of wonder and admiration for this captivating destination.

Shopping and Markets in Victoria, BC

For those who love to shop and explore local markets, Victoria, BC provides a delightful array of options. From charming boutique stores to bustling markets, there is something for every shopper’s taste and preference. Here are some shopping experiences and markets to check out during your cruise stop:

• Government Street: Take a leisurely stroll down Government Street, Victoria’s main shopping hub. This bustling street is lined with a variety of shops, from high-end boutiques to quirky souvenir stores. Browse through clothing, jewelry, local artwork, and other unique items, and find the perfect memento of your trip.
• Chinatown Night Market: Experience the vibrant energy and cultural diversity of Victoria’s Chinatown by visiting the Chinatown Night Market. Held on select evenings, this market offers a fantastic array of Asian-inspired crafts, artwork, and street food. Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere as you explore the stalls and indulge in delicious culinary delights.
• Flea Markets and Bazaars: Victoria is home to various flea markets and bazaars, where you can find vintage treasures, antiques, and locally crafted goods. Browse through the stalls, strike up a bargain, and bring home a unique souvenir that reflects the craftsmanship and creativity of the local community.
• Farmers Markets: If you’re a fan of fresh produce, artisanal products, and local goods, don’t miss the opportunity to visit one of Victoria’s farmers markets. These markets offer a wide selection of seasonal fruits, vegetables, homemade treats, and handcrafted items. Engage with local vendors, savor the flavors, and support the thriving agricultural community of Vancouver Island.
• Shopping in Oak Bay: Explore the charming village of Oak Bay, known for its quaint shops and boutiques. Discover upscale clothing stores, antique shops, and art galleries nestled amidst picturesque streets. Take your time to wander through the village, enjoy the relaxed atmosphere, and find unique treasures to take home.

These are just a few examples of the shopping and market options available in Victoria, BC. Whether you’re hunting for souvenirs, searching for unique gifts, or simply enjoy the thrill of exploring local markets, Victoria has a shopping experience that will cater to your desires. So, get ready to indulge in some retail therapy and discover the hidden gems waiting to be found.

Outdoor Activities at Night in Victoria, BC

Victoria, BC offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts to immerse themselves in nature even after the sun goes down. From peaceful walks along the waterfront to thrilling adventures under the night sky, there are outdoor activities for everyone to enjoy during your cruise stop. Here are some options to consider:

• Beacon Hill Park: Enjoy a tranquil evening stroll through Beacon Hill Park, a beautiful urban green space. Admire the stunning gardens, watch for nocturnal wildlife, and unwind in the peaceful surroundings. This park offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city, allowing you to connect with nature even at night.
• Night Kayaking Tours: Experience the thrill of kayaking under the stars on a guided night tour. Paddle through tranquil waters, marvel at bioluminescent plankton illuminating the ocean, and immerse yourself in the magic of the night. These tours provide a unique perspective of Victoria’s coastline and a chance to witness the natural wonders that come alive after dark.
• Star Gazing: Victoria is blessed with clear skies and minimal light pollution, making it a great destination for star gazing. Head to a nearby beach or park, lay out a blanket, and gaze up at the twinkling stars. Consider joining a star gazing tour or bringing a telescope to enhance your experience.
• Evening Bike Ride: Rent a bike and embark on an evening ride along Victoria’s scenic bike paths. Explore the city’s waterfront, ride along the Galloping Goose Trail, or pedal through residential neighborhoods. As the city lights illuminate the path ahead, you’ll have a chance to enjoy the fresh air and see Victoria in a different light.
• Nighttime Wildlife Tours: Join a guided wildlife tour to discover Victoria’s nocturnal inhabitants. From owls to bats, there are plenty of animals that become active after dark. Experienced guides will lead you to the best viewing spots, providing insights into the behavior and habitat of these captivating creatures.

These are just a few examples of the outdoor activities available at night in Victoria, BC. Whether you prefer a peaceful walk, a thrilling kayak excursion, or a chance to observe nocturnal wildlife, the city offers ample opportunities to connect with nature and enjoy the beauty of the night. So, embrace the darkness and embark on an unforgettable adventure in the great outdoors of Victoria.

Victoria, BC is a city that truly comes alive at night, offering a plethora of activities to make your cruise stop a memorable one. From cultural experiences to culinary delights, vibrant nightlife to outdoor adventures, there is something for everyone to enjoy after the sun sets. Whether you prefer exploring historical landmarks, indulging in delicious cuisine, immersing yourself in the arts, or embarking on thrilling outdoor excursions, Victoria has it all.

Take a leisurely stroll along the Inner Harbour, immerse yourself in local history and culture at the Royal BC Museum, or embark on a ghostly walk to uncover the city’s eerie past. Indulge in the diverse culinary scene, from waterfront dining to food trucks and night markets, or sip on handcrafted cocktails at trendy bars and speakeasies. Enjoy live music performances, catch a comedy show, or try your luck at a casino. Venture out on nighttime tours to appreciate the beauty of Victoria’s landmarks, observe wildlife, or kayak under a starry sky.

Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, cultural experiences, or memorable shopping expeditions, Victoria, BC has it all. The city’s unique charm and lively ambiance provide the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable night filled with exploration and excitement.

So, make the most of your cruise stop in Victoria and indulge in the variety of nighttime activities that the city has to offer. Whether you choose to immerse yourself in the vibrant nightlife, enjoy delicious cuisine, or explore the outdoor wonders under the night sky, Victoria will leave you with cherished memories and a desire to return and experience more of its nighttime magic.

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Victoria & Vancouver Island   Travel Guide

Courtesy of JoeRos | Getty Images

17 Best Things To Do in Victoria & Vancouver Island

Updated February 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 .

Popular Tours

Half-Day Whale Watching Adventure from Victoria

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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.

Whale Watching Tour in a Zodiac Boat in Victoria

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Zodiac Whale Watching Adventure from Victoria

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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.

COMBO Victoria City Tour & Butchart Gardens & Entry Tix

(77 reviews)

from $ 98.85

Victoria to Vancouver - Coach Bus Transfer

(98 reviews)

from $ 73.87

Victoria Whale Watching Tour on a Covered Vessel

(256 reviews)

from $ 128.91

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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West Coast Brewery Tours West Coast Brewery Tours

Beacon Hill Park Beacon Hill Park free

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36 Best Things to Do in Victoria, BC

Victoria, BC is one of our favorite places in the world and it’s not hard to see why. There’s just so much to love about this beautiful city!

Located on Vancouver Island’s southern edge, Victoria — the capital city of British Columbia — offers an amazing blend of natural coastal beauty, historical architecture, friendly locals, incredible restaurants, mild climate, and so many fun things to do!

As locals, we feel incredibly lucky to call this beautiful city home. Since moving here, we’ve explored every nook and cranny of Victoria and have uncovered some of the best things to do and places to see in the city.

Below, we cover the best things to do and see in Victoria, based on our local knowledge and experiences. We share the top activities, hidden gems, and must-visit landmarks, with insider tips to help you make the most of your time in our beloved city. Enjoy!

Best Things to Do in Victoria, BC

From scenic seaplane flights and whale watching tours to famous flower gardens and beautiful beaches, Victoria is packed full of top things to do, beautiful places to see, and fun activities for just about every type of traveler!

Owing to the sheer abundance of activities, it can be hard to decide on what to do in Victoria, BC. We’ve been living here for years but still haven’t done and seen everything!

Don’t worry though — we’re here to help you pick the best things to do, places to see, activities, and must-visit attractions when visiting Victoria. Read on to discover the best that this city has to offer!

1. Butchart Gardens

Visiting the world-famous Butchart Gardens easily makes it to the top of our list of the best things to do in Victoria, BC — and for good reason!

One of the most popular gardens and tourist spots in Victoria, the Butchart Gardens are a must-see destination, year-round. Formerly a limestone quarry, the 55-acre property now houses thousands of colorful flowers and perfectly manicured plants, as well as stunning fountains, unique sculptures, totem poles, and even a carousel!

Related Article: Beautiful Gardens around Victoria, BC

Some of the most picturesque areas include the Sunken Garden, which is breathtaking every time we see it, and the Japanese Garden, complete with a towering Torii gate and gorgeous Japanese maples. We also love the impressive Ross Fountain and bronze Butchart Boar statue — apparently, rubbing its nose is good luck!

As if that all wasn’t enough, the Butchart Gardens also puts on a spectacular fireworks display on Saturday evenings in summer. And in December, the gardens transform into a magical winter wonderland of twinkling lights and festive decorations during the Magic of Christmas event .

Related Article: Festive Things to Do at Christmas in Victoria, BC

Located in Brentwood Bay, the gardens are just a quick half-hour drive from downtown Victoria. Don’t have your own car to get there? This Butchart Gardens shuttle bus (admission included) will take you from downtown Victoria to the gardens, and back after!

For a daytrip from Vancouver to Victoria, this Butchart Gardens Tour from Vancouver will shuttle you by bus and ferry from Vancouver to Victoria and back. They even pick you up from your hotel in Vancouver.

Alternatively, arrive to Victoria in style on a seaplane flight from Vancouver , which includes transportation and admission to Butchart Gardens. Both of these day trips will also give you time to explore the Inner Harbour and see sights like Chinatown, BC Parliament Buildings, and the Empress Hotel.

Book the Butchart Gardens Shuttle Bus Here!

Book the butchart gardens bus tour from vancouver here, book the butchart gardens seaplane tour from vancouver here, 2. whale watching tour.

Who doesn’t want to experience the magic of spotting whales around Victoria?

Whale watching tours are one of the best ways to see these magnificent marine mammals, while also exploring Victoria’s coastal waters while you’re at it. If you’re lucky, you might spot a whale from land — but these tours guarantee a sighting!

Around Victoria, you’ll have the chance to spot gray, humpback, and minke whales, as well as our favorite — orcas! There are also the smaller Pacific white-sided dolphins, harbour porpoises, and Dall’s porpoises, as well as other marine animals like Steller and California sea lions, harbour seals, river otters, and seabirds.

With a whale watching tour (like this half-day tour ), you’ll search for whales while experiencing the beauty of the Salish Sea. Don’t forget your camera! Thanks to marine experts, you’ll also learn more about the ecology of the whales in the area.

Sunset whale watching tours are our favorite. Ideal for photographers, these evening tours take you onto the water just before the sun sets, searching for whales in the golden light of dusk.

If you want to enjoy the sun more while you’re on the water, there are also half-day whale watching tours that head out in the morning or afternoon. You can choose to go out on a semi-covered vessel or for the more adventurous, a zodiac boat . If you don’t want to get splashed, we highly recommend sticking with the semi-covered boats!

Book the Sunset Whale Watching Tour Here!

Book the half-day whale watching tour (semi-covered boat) here, book the half-day whale watching tour (zodiac boat) here, 3. walking food tour.

Foodies, rejoice! A walking food tour in Victoria is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in the city for those who want to experience all the local tastes.

Munch your way through Victoria’s culinary scene while enjoying a guided walking tour of the city with this Food and History Tour . Enjoy many local foods while learning about the rich history of the city!

Starting at the Victoria Public Market, you’ll explore highlights around downtown Victoria. Marvel at the Gate of Harmonious Interest in Chinatown, walk down the incredibly narrow Fan Tan Alley, stop at the historic Bastion Square, explore the charming Trounce Alley, and more!

Along the way, you’ll stop for food tastings from various local restaurants. Participants get to taste a wide range of locally sourced foods, from fresh seafood and artisanal cheeses to locally brewed beers and handcrafted chocolates.

The knowledgeable and friendly guides make this experience enjoyable and informative for all ages, making it a must-do activity for any visitor to Victoria!

Book a Food and History Walking Tour Here!

4. chinatown & fan tan alley.

Victoria is home to Canada’s oldest Chinatown (and North America’s second oldest), which is just north of downtown. This historical neighborhood offers visitors a taste of Chinese culture, with its vibrant colors, traditional architecture, delicious cuisine, and boutique shops.

The entrance of Chinatown is marked by the famous Gate of Harmonious Interest. This 38-foot tall ornate gate spans over Fisgard Street and welcomes visitors to the neighborhood with its intricate designs and stone lion sculptures.

Despite being small, Victoria’s Chinatown is packed full of unique shops selling all kinds of goods and souvenirs, restaurants serving Chinese cuisine like dim sum or bubble tea, grocery stores with specialty foods like durian and lychee, and narrow alleyways.

Don’t miss the easily-overlooked Fan Tan Alley while wandering around Chinatown. A hidden gem in Victoria, Fan Tan Alley is the narrowest street in all of Canada at only 0.9 meters (35 inches) wide in places! Marked only by a small sign on a lamppost, it’s easy to walk past this small street — keep your eyes peeled!

One of the best ways to fully experience Victoria’s Chinatown is on a two-hour Eat, Drink, and Explore Chinatown walking tour. On the tour, you’ll learn about the history of Chinatown’s heritage sites like the Chinese Language School, the Gate of Harmonious Interest, and Fan Tan Alley.

And of course, this food tour lets you sample a variety of foods and drinks from local vendors in the Victoria Public Market and Market Square. You’ll be treated to locally-roasted coffees, savory hand pies, arancini, and even some craft beer!

Book the Eat, Drink, Explore Chinatown Tour Here!

5. seaplane flight.

Scenic floatplane tours are one of the best ways to see Victoria — from a bird’s eye view!

Soaring above the city skyline is the ideal way to admire all the great sights that Victoria is known for. Not only that, the seaplanes take off and land right in the Inner Harbour.

If you haven’t flown in a floatplane before, it’s quite a unique experience!

Book a Panorama Seaplane Tour for an unforgettable adventure. You’ll board the seaplane at the Victoria Harbour Airport terminal. Then, the floatplane will skim quickly along the water of Victoria’s Harbour before taking to the skies.

From above, you’ll be treated to spectacular aerial views of Victoria and Vancouver Island’s southern coast. Look for landmarks like the Saanich Peninsula, Finlayson Arm, Mount Douglas, Salt Spring Island, and the distant Olympic Mountains over the Strait of Juan de Fuca.

Overall, a scenic floatplane tour is an excellent way to see the city of Victoria and its surroundings from a unique perspective, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Book a Scenic Floatplane Tour Here!

6. beacon hill park.

Looking for one of the best free things to do in Victoria? Check out Beacon Hill Park!

Beacon Hill Park is an expansive 75 hectare (200 acre) park by the Dallas Road waterfront. Not only does this park command an excellent location right by the ocean, but it is also within walking distance of downtown.

Often considered the crown jewel park of Victoria, Beacon Hill features rare Garry Oak meadows that fill with blossoms in the spring, year-round flower gardens , lily ponds with turtles, beautiful fountains, sports fields of all kinds, and more.

There’s even the Beacon Hill Children’s Farm (admission by donation), one of the fun family-friendly things to do in Victoria.

Beacon Hill Park is also home to what was once the tallest free-standing totem pole in the world. You’ll find this impressive carved cedar tree near the woods beside Dallas Road. Often, there will be a bald eagle perched at the very top!

Wander through Beacon Hill Park on foot or treat yourself to a scenic horse-drawn carriage ride through the park. As you explore, keep your eyes peeled for unique sights like colorful peacocks or the Moss Lady statue. In the summer, the park is a popular spot for picnics, especially during the weekend concerts held at the Cameron Bandshell.

7. Horse-Drawn Carriage Tour

One of the most unique ways to explore Victoria is on a horse-drawn carriage tour . Enjoy the clip-clop of the horses’ hooves on the pavement and the gentle pace of the carriage as you take in the sights and sounds of this beautiful city.

These relaxing tours take visitors through Victoria’s picturesque downtown, past must-see spots, and beside the waterfront. Along the way, you’ll see iconic landmarks like the Inner Harbour, BC Parliament Buildings and Empress Hotel.

Throughout the tour, your knowledgeable guide will share stories and anecdotes about the city as you ride through its streets.

For a full show of all that downtown Victoria has to offer, we recommend this 60-minute horse-drawn carriage tour . The tour cost covers the entire carriage (up to 6 people), making this one of the top things to do in Victoria with a group or for a romantic date.

You’ll start the tour beside the Empress Hotel and then journey through the stunning Beacon Hill Park. After, the carriage will head along the Dallas Road waterfront. Enjoy incredible views of the Olympic Mountains over the Strait of Juan de Fuca, before heading back downtown through the historic James Bay neighborhood.

Book the Horse Drawn Carriage Tour Here!

8. bc parliament buildings.

Located in the heart of downtown Victoria, the BC Parliament Buildings are truly a sight to behold. Standing on the edge of the Inner Harbour, the neo-baroque buildings feature a grand façade, renaissance-style copper domes, statues of historical figures, gorgeous water fountains, and more.

The Parliament Buildings are home to the Legislative Assembly of British Columbia, but you don’t need to be a fan of politics, history, or architecture to visit this beautiful landmark. Many visitors walk its gorgeous grounds to enjoy views of these iconic buildings or to just to snap a photo of the front.

While visitors often stop to admire the front of the British Columbia Parliament Buildings, there is so much more to see than just that! Make sure to walk around the buildings to spot sights like the Centennial Fountain, Rose Garden, and all of the various statues and monuments. Visit at night to admire the building’s exterior lights, too.

And yes, you can go inside the Parliament Buildings! Don’t miss seeing the grand interior, like we did when we first moved here.

Entry is free from Monday to Friday, 8:30 am to 4:30 pm. There are free self-guided or public tours, which include the Rotunda, Legislative Chamber, Legislative Library, and Hall of Honour.

Whether you want to observe a debate from the public gallery, take pictures of the stained glass windows (there are hundreds of them!), or see the traditional hand-crafted Shxwtitostel canoe, rest assured that there’s always plenty to keep you entertained for the day!

9. Craigdarroch Castle

Did you know that there’s a castle near downtown Victoria?

Craigdarroch Castle is a beautiful Victorian-era mansion located in the heart of Victoria near the Government House — and it’s actually one of TWO castles in the city!

Originally, Craigdarroch Castle was an extravagant home for the wealthy coal baron Robert Dunsmuir and his family, built in the late 1800s. Now, the castle is a National Historic Site and a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Victoria.

Wander through the castle on a self-guided tour, learning about its fascinating history and that of the family that lived there. The castle is open from Thursday through Sunday (10:00 am – 4:00 pm).

Even if you don’t want to tour the castle, it’s worth stopping by to see the outside! The historic building really stands out in the Rockland neighborhood. When the cherry blossoms bloom in spring, the castle combined with the pink flowers make for stunning photographs!

For a unique experience, consider joining a 2.5-hour Craigdarroch Castle Pedicab Tour which combines your castle admission with a pedicab tour of the area. On the way to the castle, you’ll pass by points of interest like the Government House (the gardens here are free and worth a visit ).

If you haven’t had enough of castles after exploring Craigdarroch, you can always head over to Hatley Castle in Colwood, another National Historic Site located just 20 minutes away!

Book a Craigdarroch Castle Pedicab Tour Here!

10. fairmont empress hotel.

A visit to the historic and iconic Empress Hotel is an absolute must-do when you’re in Victoria, BC. While the Empress is one of the best oceanfront hotels in Victoria , it’s not just a hotel but a cultural landmark that has played an integral part in the city’s history for over 100 years.

One of the world’s most famous hotels, The Empress was built in the early 1900s and designated a National Historic Site in the 1980s. The hotel has hosted numerous celebrities and dignitaries over the years, including Queen Elizabeth II, King George VI, and Shirley Temple.

To experience the most that The Empress has to offer, book a stay in one of its many luxurious guest rooms. But that’s not the only thing you can do at this hotel!

The Empress is well known for its world-renowned afternoon tea, a time-honored ritual lasting for over a century. This elegant experience treats guests to a selection of teas, finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones, and decadent pastries, served on royal china and accompanied with classical piano.

Make reservations in advance — this is easily one of the most coveted activities in Victoria! Just be forewarned — the afternoon tea is on the pricey side.

Even if you don’t stay or eat at The Empress, make sure to visit this iconic landmark. The hotel’s stunning architecture and location on Victoria’s Inner Harbour make for some beautiful photographs. A visit to The Empress is a truly unforgettable experience that combines luxury, history, and stunning views, making it one of the best things to do in Victoria!

Check The Empress Hotel Prices Here!

11. inner harbor.

Don’t miss visiting the Inner Harbour if you’re looking for the must-see destinations in Victoria!

One of the most beautiful harbors in the world, Victoria’s Inner Harbour has everything — picturesque waterfront views, historic buildings, delicious dining options, boutique shops, and a vibrant atmosphere that truly captures the essence of the city. In addition, the harbor services many businesses like whale watching and floatplane tours .

Take a stroll along the harbor causeway and admire the stunning architecture of the Fairmont Empress Hotel and British Columbia Parliament Buildings. During the summer months, this area turns into bustling tourist hotspot with street performers, music, food vendors, and sightseers from all over the world.

Visitors can also enjoy whale watching excursions or simply relax in one of the many waterfront cafes and restaurants. If you’re feeling adventurous, join a guided kayak tour to explore the waters of the Inner Harbour — one of the best harbours to paddle around in the world!

Of course, no visit to Victoria’s Inner Harbor would be complete without checking out the iconic Pickle Boats. These small ferry boats cruise all around the harbour, connecting different destinations like Chinatown, Fisherman’s Wharf, and the Empress. And yes, these water taxis are shaped like tiny pickles!

12. Royal BC Museum

Home to over 7 million specimens and artifacts, the Royal BC Museum is one of the largest in Canada — and well worth a visit!

This world-class museum is dedicated to both human and natural history, offering incredible learning experiences for visitors of all ages. Visiting the museum is one of the best family-friendly things to do in Victoria — but it’s also lots of fun for adults too!

One of the most beloved exhibits at the Royal BC Museum is the Giant Mammoth. This life-size replica is named Woolly and was based on a real-life mammoth skeleton discovered in 1931.

For an immersive experience, check out the Old Town exhibit, designed to make visitors feel like they’re meandering through Victoria’s cobbled streets back at the turn of the century.

The museum also regularly brings in traveling exhibits, so there are always new things to see!

When you’re done look at artefacts, stop by the IMAX theatre in the Royal BC Museum to check out a movie or informative documentary. There are showtimes all through the day!

No trip to the Royal B.C. Museum would be complete without a visit to Thunderbird Park, known for its impressive collection of totem poles. Located just outside the museum, Thunderbird Park is free to visit — so make sure to check it out!

The Royal BC Museum is a must-see destination in Victoria, with its vast collection of specimens and artifacts, incredible exhibits, IMAX theatre, and stunning outdoor Thunderbird Park. Visiting this museum is a great way to spend a day and learn more about the fascinating history and culture of the area.

Note: The Royal BC Museum’s third floor is currently closed as they work on decolonization and renovation of the galleries. Click here for the museum’s current exhibitions .

13. Ghostly Walking Tour

Looking for a unique activity to do in Victoria ? If you’re in the mood for something different, consider taking a ghost tour of the city’s downtown!

The 60-minute Ghostly Walking Tours offer an unusual and intriguing way to experience the city. Led by talented storytellers, this spooky tour guides you through some of downtown’s most haunted spots. You’ll also get to see many of Victoria’s well known landmarks along the way.

Get ready to be spooked as your knowledgeable guide shares Victoria’s ghost stories and tragic tales! One of the best things about this tour is the opportunity to learn more about the unusual side of Victoria’s history.

Whether you’re a history buff or simply looking for an eerie adventure, this tour offers something for everyone. Don’t miss out on this spine-tingling opportunity to explore Victoria’s haunted history!

Book a Ghostly Walking Tour Here!

14. fisherman’s wharf.

Just a short walk around the corner from the Inner Harbour, you’ll find the quirky Fisherman’s Wharf. A floating marine destination, this must-visit spot features brightly-colored float homes, outdoor eateries, unique souvenir shops, and various ecotourism businesses like whale watching tours .

The colorful floating homes are one of the most whimsical features of Fisherman’s Wharf. Unfortunately, they are private residences and can’t be explored. But, if you want to experience what it’s like to stay in a floating home, book a room at the Fisherman’s Wharf Floating Bed & Breakfast !

Fisherman’s Wharf is a great spot to head for lunch. The floating outdoor restaurants serve all types of seafood, from fish n’ chips to freshly caught shellfish. Enjoy your meal at a picnic table, while taking in the lively atmosphere and watching the boats come and go. You might even catch a glimpse of seals!

After, if you’ve got some extra time to spare, you can always hop on a water taxi to explore the rest of Victoria’s Harbour. Alternatively, join one of the whale watching tours that depart from Fisherman’s Wharf to spot some marine wildlife like orcas and sea lions.

As a heads up, Fisherman’s Wharf is best visited in the summer months. Most businesses at the wharf are shut during the winter season. Also, expect crowds during peak tourist season!

Check Fisherman’s Wharf Floating Bed & Breakfast Prices Here!

15. victoria butterfly gardens.

Visiting the Victoria Butterfly Gardens is the perfect activity for a rainy or chilly day in the city. These indoor gardens provide an escape to the tropics without leaving British Columbia!

As you enter the gardens, you will be greeted by up to 70 species of butterflies, fluttering free among the plants. Our favorites are the massive atlas moths (which live less than a week after leaving their cocoons) and the orange-and-black monarch butterflies (known for their incredible multi-generational migrations).

Adding to the jungle experience, the gardens also house free-flying parrots and other tropical birds, like Caribbean flamingos! Other animals you’ll get to see include iguanas, tortoises, turtles, and poison dart frogs. You’ll also find a small stream, waterfall, and pond full of tropical fish!

Not only that, the indoor garden is a botanical wonderland. Here, you’ll find all kinds of flowers and plants from different parts of the world. They even have carnivorous plants that eat insects and sensitive Mimosa plants that close their leaves after being touched.

A visit to the Victoria Butterfly Gardens is a perfect way to spend a relaxing and fun-filled afternoon with your loved ones. Plus, since the Victoria Butterfly Gardens are located near Brentwood Bay, it’s an excellent activity to add to your day’s itinerary before or after visiting the Butchart Gardens.

Book Victoria Butterfly Garden Admission Tickets Here!

16. beaches.

It’s no secret that some of the most beautiful beaches in British Columbia are found in Victoria. After all, the city is practically surrounded by the ocean!

Willows Beach is by far the most popular beach in Victoria. One of the few sandy beaches in town, it does admittedly get crowded in the summer… but it’s so worth visiting.

With a grassy park, soft sand, and shallow water, Willows Beach is the perfect spot for a picnic, long walk, or quick dip in the ocean. We also love playing spikeball here!

Another incredible sandy beach in Victoria is Gonzales Beach . Located in a sheltered bay, we find that Gonzales is one of the best beaches in Victoria to head on a windy day. The water here is calm, making it a family-friendly beach that’s great for swimming — if you can brave the cold water, that is!

Head to the Dallas Road waterfront for another beautiful beach — Spiral Beach. This rocky beach isn’t great for swimming but it’s incredibly scenic! There are stairs to get down to the beach near Cook Street or Clover Point.

Looking for more beaches in Victoria to explore? Check out our articles on the best sandy beaches , most beautiful beaches , and most accessible beaches in town!

17. Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Bus

Hop-on hop-off buses are one of the best ways to explore the beautiful city of Victoria. Not to mention, they are all double-decker buses with an open top half — which makes them loads more fun to ride than a normal bus!

These sightseeing buses offer a convenient and flexible way to see the city’s top attractions. You get unlimited access for a half day. The buses are available from March through to October.

Points of interest on the bus routes include the Fairmont Empress Hotel , Craigdarroch Castle, Chinatown, Old Town, Fisherman’s Wharf, Inner Harbour, BC Parliament Buildings, Christ Church Cathedral, Oak Bay Village and Marina, Cook Street Village, and the Breakwater .

With the freedom to get off at any stop and explore at your own pace, you can customize your tour according to your interests and schedule. They are the perfect way to get around if you don’t have a vehicle!

Buy Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tickets Here!

18. government street.

Government Street is easily one of the most vibrant and pedestrian-friendly roads in Victoria. If you want to see some of the city’s iconic landmarks, check out local restaurants and bars, or just love shopping, this is the place to head!

While the street starts at Dallas Road and runs all the way to Douglas Street, the central portion (between Chinatown and the Inner Harbour) is the most lively and packed full of top things to do.

An entertainment and shopping hub, Government Street is lined with an assortment of boutique stores, restaurants, bars, historical buildings, and iconic landmarks. In the summer, there are often street performers, too!

Walking is the best way to explore Government Street. We recommend that you start at Beacon Hill Park or the BC Parliament buildings and head north towards Chinatown. Along the way, you’ll spot all kinds of must-see tourist destinations, including Bastion Square and the Empress.

If you want to learn more about the history of this area, we recommend joining a Historical Victoria Walking Tour !

Book a Historical Walking Tour Here!

19. malahat skywalk.

Looking for unparalleled views of the Salish Sea? If so, the Malahat SkyWalk should be at the top of your itinerary when visiting Victoria!

One of the more unique things to do in Victoria, the Malahat SkyWalk is a spiral 32-m high tower offering 360-degree views from the top. You’ll be able to see the Finlayson Arm, Saanich Peninsula, and all the way to Mount Baker!

Here’s one of the most fun parts about the Malahat Skywalk: when you’re done at the top, you get to slide all the way back down!

The Spiral Slide is 50 m (165 feet) long and 20 m (65 feet) tall. You can ride it as many times as you’d like.

There’s also an exciting adventure net at the top of the tower. Walk on it if you dare (don’t worry — it’s safe)!

The Malahat SkyWalk is just north of Victoria on the Malahat Highway, along the edge of the Saanich Inlet. You’ll need a vehicle to get there. If you don’t have one, consider this round-trip shuttle service from downtown Victoria (which also includes your admission ticket).

Book Malahat SkyWalk Shuttle and Admission Tickets Here!

20. pkols (mount douglas park).

For incredible 360-degree views of Vancouver Island and the Salish Sea, head to PKOLS (aka Mount Douglas Park) in Saanich.

At 225 meters high, the summit of Mount Doug offers spectacular views of much of Victoria and the surrounding regions. You’ll be able to see downtown Victoria, the rural Saanich Peninsula, Cordova Bay, and even Washington’s Olympic and Cascade Mountains.

There are many hiking trails that lead to the top of PKOLS. Alternatively, you can walk, bike, or drive up to the summit via Churchill Drive. The road is closed to vehicles until noon.

Don’t miss Mount Doug Beach when exploring the park! The beach is located near the large parking lot off Cordova Bay Road. We also recommend parking here, as the Churchill Drive parking lot is quite small.

21. Hot Tub Boat

Do you know what’s better than sightseeing on foot? Exploring Victoria from the cozy comfort of a hot tub boat , of course!

Hot tub boats are one of the most unique and fun ways to explore the Gorge Waterway and Upper Harbour of Victoria. These are Canada’s first hot tub boats and they are a blast to cruise around in.

The floating wood-fired hot tubs launch near the Johnson Street bridge. Each private hot tub boat rental has 1.5 hours on the water. You can cruise all the way to the Selkirk Trestle and back in that time!

The hot tub boats are equipped with waterproof speakers. Enjoy your favorite music while gazing out at Victoria’s historic waterfront. When you’re too hot, you can even go for a swim to cool off, thanks to the onboard ladder!

Book a Hot Tub Boat Here!

22. goldstream provincial park.

Goldstream Provincial Park has it all: stunning waterfalls, incredible wildlife viewing opportunities, moss-covered forests, hiking trails, camping, epic panoramic views of the city…

Despite being on the city’s edge, this park is one of the best places to visit in Victoria if you’re a fan of the outdoors. It’s only 16-km from downtown Victoria, located at the start of the Malahat in Langford.

Goldstream is best known for its impressive salmon run in the fall. Thousands of Chum salmon return to the river and swim upstream to spawn. Visitors can watch this spectacle from late October through November. It’s also a great time of year to see the animals that feed upon the salmon, like bald eagles!

The park features one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Victoria — Niagara Falls. Yes, it has the same name as the one in Ontario. Now while it’s admittedly much smaller than its massive namesake in the east, Goldstream’s Niagara Falls is still quite beautiful! You’ll also find another waterfall, Goldstream Falls, near the campground.

Related Articles: Best Waterfalls Around Victoria, BC

Goldstream Provincial Park is also home to Mount Finlayson, one of Greater Victoria’s highest points and best scenic viewpoints . We do have to point out that the hike to the top isn’t exactly easy since it’s also the steepest trail in the area. But the view from the top is totally worth it, with amazing vistas of the island from every angle!

23. Hiking Trails

Do you love hiking? If so, here’s the great news about Victoria: the city is packed full of hiking trails, with options suitable for just about every fitness level!

A favorite of ours is PKOLS (Mount Douglas Park) which just so happens to be one of Victoria’s most dog-friendly hikes . The top of Mount Doug (as locals often call it) offers some of the best views of the city . The summit takes about 20-40 minutes of walking, depending on your fitness level.

If you’re in the mood for something strenuous, climb to the top of Mount Finlayson in Goldstream Provincial Park. Remember to wear your best hiking boots since the walk to the top is super steep!

For a more relaxing walk, you could always check out the hiking paths around Thetis Lake. Or if you’re looking for spectacular ocean views, we highly recommend hiking part of the Coast Trail in East Sooke Park.

Traveling with kids or need a more accessible walk? Check out the Dallas Road Waterfront Trail, Kinsol Trestle Bridge, or Songhees Walkway!

24. Southern Gulf Islands

While Victoria itself has plenty of things to do, visiting one of the Southern Gulf Islands is an unforgettable experience that shouldn’t be missed.

While the Gulf Islands archipelago stretches along much of Vancouver Island, the main islands around Victoria are Salt Spring, Galiano, Saturna, Mayne, Pender, and Sidney Islands. Despite how close these islands are to Victoria, they have a distinct feel that makes them worthwhile adding to your Vancouver Island itinerary.

Each of the Southern Gulf Islands has its own charm and attractions, from the laid-back vibe of Galiano Island to the rugged beauty of Saturna Island. Salt Spring Island (also called Saltspring) is the largest, most developed, and most popular to visit.

Mayne Island features beautiful coastline, while Pender Island offers breathtaking hiking trails and chances to spot orcas. Sidney Island feels like a hidden gem, with long sandy beaches and tidal flats.

No matter which island you choose to visit, you’ll find a welcoming community, stunning island scenery, vibrant arts scene, farm-to-table foods, and plenty of opportunities for relaxation and adventure.

And with regular ferry service to and from Victoria, getting to the Gulf Islands is a breeze. These beautiful islands are perfect for a day trip (or longer) and the ferry is a great way to see the ocean scenery around Victoria!

25. Thetis Lake Regional Park

When we first moved to Victoria, Thetis Lake Regional Park quickly became one of our favorite spots in the city — and that hasn’t changed to this day!

Thetis Lake is a 921-hectare natural area featuring two beautiful lakes: Upper and Lower Thetis Lakes. Both lakes are quite popular for swimming, floating, kayaking, and just about any lakeside activity you can think of.

There’s also the smaller Prior Lake, but be warned — it’s clothing-optional!

Not only that, the park has over 40 kilometers of hiking trails. Wander through Douglar fir forests, explore around the lakes, and hike up to beautiful viewpoints at the top of Stewart Mountain, Seymour, or Scafe Hills.

Great for swimming, Thetis Lake is a very busy destination on hot days. In the summer, we highly recommend arriving before noon to beat the crowds. Parking gets pretty ridiculous, so arriving early will let you find a parking space and enjoy the lake before it gets busy.

Thetis Lake also offers ideal conditions for stand-up paddleboarding. Check out this paddleboarding lesson that’ll take you from the Main Beach to Upper Thetis Lake. Ideal for beginners, you’ll learn how to use a paddleboard while exploring the beautiful lakes!

Book a Thetis Lake Stand-Up Paddleboarding Session Here!

26. fort rodd hill & fisgard lighthouse.

Looking for a family-friendly thing to do or just want to learn about Victoria’s history? If so, head to Fort Rodd Hill and the Fisgard Lighthouse in Colwood!

Both National Historic Sites, Fort Rodd Hill and the Fisgard Lighthouse offer a fascinating glimpse into Canada’s military and maritime history. The two sites are directly adjacent to each other.

Built in the 1890’s, Fort Rodd Hill was once an important coastal defense for Vancouver Island. Now, visitors can explore the historic remains, including gun batteries, barracks, command posts, and underground magazines, all while enjoying scenic ocean views.

Meanwhile, the Fisgard Lighthouse is the oldest lighthouse on Canada’s west coast, dating back to 1860. While it no longer has a keeper, the red-and-white lighthouse is still operational. Enter the lighthouse to learn about everything from shipwrecks to lighthouse keepers.

Admission to Fort Rodd Hill and the Fisgard Lighthouse is cheap, under $10 for adults and free for youths, making them one of the best cheap things to do in Victoria!

Did you enjoy these historic sites? Visit Macaulay Point Park next! Here, you’ll find Fort Macaulay, another coastal defense battery that’s free to visit!

27. Juan de Fuca Provincial Park

Offering spectacular hiking trails, breathtaking beaches, seaside backcountry camping, hidden waterfalls, wildlife spotting opportunities, and tide pools galore , the Juan de Fuca Provincial Park is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream come true!

One of the park’s main draws is the Juan de Fuca Marine Trail. This popular hiking and backpacking trail stretches over 40 km along Vancouver Island’s shoreline, between China Beach and Botanical Beach near Port Renfrew.

The Juan de Fuca Marine Trail neighbors the famous West Coast Trail, which starts on the other side of Port Renfrew!

Within the park, you’ll find several incredibly beautiful beaches. From the bowl-shaped tide pools of Botanical Beach to the hidden waterfall at Sombrio, it’s worth checking out all of the beaches along this stretch of protected coastline.

Be sure to check out Mystic Beach, accessed via a short hike through the forest. Here, you’ll find a waterfall that tumbles directly onto the beach!

If you want to stay in the park overnight, there is frontcountry camping in the China Beach Campground. Most of the beaches also allow backcountry camping, with a permit.

28. Waterfalls

While Victoria may be known for its beautiful gardens and picturesque coastline, the city is also home to some stunning waterfalls that are not to be missed.

Chasing waterfalls is one of the top activities in Victoria for those seeking a little adventure and some incredible natural beauty. Because the waterfalls get more impressive after a good rainfall (and some even dry up in the summer), this is one of the best things to do in Victoria in the rainy winter season.

One of the most popular waterfalls in Victoria is Goldstream Provincial Park’s Niagara Falls. The waterfall is close to the parking lot and you can walk almost right up the base of the falls, depending on the time of year.

Another beautiful waterfall to visit is Sitting Lady Falls in Witty’s Lagoon Regional Park. This waterfall resembles a sitting lady wearing a dress of water!

If you don’t mind driving outside of town, head to the Juan de Fuca Provincial Park for a couple of waterfalls right by the beach. Both Mystic and Sombrio Beaches feature waterfalls.

While Mystic Beach’s waterfall tumbles right onto the sand, you’ll need to search for the falls on Sombrio. Hint — the waterfall is hidden down a forest trail on the east side of the beach!

Click here to learn about more beautiful waterfalls in Victoria!

29. Cowichan Valley Wine Tour

Did you know that one of the major wine regions in British Columbia is found on Vancouver Island?

Most of Vancouver Island’s vineyards are located in the Cowichan Valley, just north of Victoria. While the vineyards on the island operate at a smaller scale than those in the BC Interior, the wines they produce are just as delicious!

With mild temperatures and a long growing season, the Cowichan Valley creates the ideal conditions for growing delicious grapes. Cowichan, a name given by the Quw’utsun people, even reflects the region’s Mediterranean climate and means “to warm one’s back in the sun”!

If you ask us, the Cowichan Valley is the ideal place for sipping on some of the best wines in the country. And the best way to experience the region’s incredible wine scene is by booking a wine tour!

Perfect for wine aficionados, this half-day Cowichan Valley Wine Tour takes you across three wineries — complete with tours and tastings! Offering round-trip transportation from Victoria’s downtown, this activity also includes a delicious lunch at a local boutique winery. 

Book a Cowichan Valley Wine Tour Here!

30. hatley castle.

Didn’t get enough of castles after Craigdarroch? If not, then head to Hatley Castle!

Built in 1908 for James Dunsmuir, Hatley Castle is a Edwardian stone mansion in Colwood that was designed to look just like a castle. The fancy castle stands at Hatley Park on the grounds of the Royal Roads University, overlooking the serene waters of Esquimalt Lagoon .

And if the place looks familiar to you, that’s because it was featured in several movies! Hatley Castle was in movies like Smallville, X-Men, Arrow, and even Deadpool! Cool, right?

Surrounded by beautifully manicured gardens, this National Historic Site is quite a beautiful spot to spend an afternoon. While the main castle grounds are free to explore, entry into the castle is only permitted on guided tours for a small fee.

While you’re in the area, make sure to explore the many walking trails that lead through the towering forest of Hatley Park. After, stop at the sandy beach of Esquimalt Lagoon , a migratory bird sanctuary known for its shallow lagoon, birdwatching opportunities, sandy beach , and driftwood sculptures.

31. Kayaking & Stand-Up Paddleboarding

Are you into watersports? If so, we’ve got some good news for you! Victoria just so happens to have some amazing kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) opportunities.

Whether you’re into kayaking, paddleboarding, or are just trying these sports for the first time, Victoria has something for you! Best of all, you don’t need your own gear to try these sports.

If you have your own kayak or paddleboard, that’s great! If you don’t, there are plenty of places to rent gear in the city or take a lesson, if it’s your first time.

For beginner paddleboarders, try this SUP lesson which takes you onto the beautiful Thetis Lake — our favorite lake in all of Victoria! During this beginner-friendly activity, you’ll learn basic paddleboarding techniques while exploring the spectacular waters of Lower and Upper Thetis Lake. It’s a blast!

Prefer kayaking? Check out this 3-hour Victoria Harbour Kayak Tour . Paddle around the downtown waters, getting to see landmarks like the Fairmont Empress and BC Parliament Buildings from a different perspective. Your guide will safely navigate you through the harbour’s marine traffic, while providing insight on the historic sights along the way.

Have your own gear? Here’s a list of the best SUP spots in Victoria (these are also great for kayakers)!

Book a Thetis Lake SUP Lesson Here!

Book a victoria harbour kayak tour here, 32. dallas road waterfront & the breakwater.

Some of Victoria’s most beautiful coastline is found along Dallas Road. If you spend an afternoon here, you’ll be sure to agree!

Dallas Road follows along the southern edge of Victoria. The waterfront walkway along the street features incredible coastal views and the distant Olympic Mountains over the Strait of Juan de Fuca.

Walking or jogging the Dallas Road Waterfront Trail is the best way to enjoy the ocean vistas. This 4-km long trail stretches from Fisherman’s Wharf all the way to the Ross Bay Cemetery. Accessible and dog-friendly, the path is super walkable with no real elevation but features some really spectacular views!

Along the way, you’ll pass by all kinds of beautiful coastal parks, including the massive Beacon Hill Park (look for the tallest free-standing totem pole near Camas Circle), Holland Point Park, and Clover Point.

There are stairs near Cook Street that’ll take you down to the rocky Spiral Beach below Dallas Road, one of the most beautiful beaches in Victoria . Further down the road, you can also visit Ross Bay Beach near the cemetery.

For some of the best views, stroll over to the the Breakwater , a 762-meter long ocean walkway extending off Dallas Road. It has a cute lighthouse at the end and is great for watching boats go by and looking for seals!

33. Sooke Potholes Regional Park

Sooke Potholes Regional Park is among our top favorite swimming spots in Victoria. If you’re visiting Victoria in summer, swimming in the potholes is one of the best things to do!

The Sooke Potholes are a series of natural swimming pools along the Sooke River, about 45-minutes outside of Victoria. Carved into the rock by the cascading waters of the Sooke River, the potholes make for great swimming spots. Some thrill-seeking people even cliff jump here!

While the Sooke Potholes aren’t as chilly as the Pacific Ocean, we do find the river is colder than lakes like Thetis. On a hot day, you get used to the water though!

The main beaches along the river include Crescent (the most popular), Sand Pebble, Skipping Rock, Ripple Rock, and Hideaway Beaches. You’ll find people spread out all along the river, though.

Swimming isn’t the only thing to do here though. The riverside rocks are great for sunbathing, the shallows are great for wading, and you can walk the trail all along the Sooke River!

The park also borders the Sea to Sea Regional Park, which is great for hiking. Mary Vine Creek Waterfall is quite beautiful after a good rain and if you go just a bit further, Peden Lake is also quite scenic.

On a hot summer’s day, make sure to arrive at the Sooke Potholes Regional Park early. The parking lot gets quite busy! Parking is paid but if you get a season’s pass, it covers parking at both the Sooke Potholes and Thetis Lake Regional Parks.

34. Craft Breweries

Visiting one (or more) of the amazing craft breweries around Victoria is one of the best things to do in the city for beer lovers. There’s nothing better than tasting some of the local brews while enjoying the sun on an outdoor patio!

Home to the first brewpub in Canada, Victoria is a city with a rich brewing history and thriving craft beer scene. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to sample some of the best beer that Vancouver Island has to offer.

From small-batch sours flavored with locally-grown fruits to West Coast-inspired IPA beers, there’s a beer to suit every taste. Sometimes the breweries even feature more unique brews, like kelp beer!

If you’re visiting at the right time, Victoria also has a couple of craft beer-focused festivals, including the Great Canadian Beer Festival and Victoria Beer Week . These events gather people from all over to celebrate the city’s craft beer culture.

35. The Gorge Waterway

The Gorge Waterway (known as the Gorge by locals) is the beautiful tidal inlet that starts at the Selkirk Trestle in the Victoria Harbour and extends north all the way to Portage Inlet.

This is a must-see destination for travelers looking for the best things to do in Victoria and it won’t take you long to understand why either! The Gorge is quite beautiful and peaceful.

Much of the Gorge can be enjoyed on foot. We usually like to start our walk at Saanich Gorge Park and then heading to Tillicum Bridge to see the Reversing Falls rapids.

After, we either continue onward along the Gorge Waterway Park Path to Craigflower-Kosapsom Park. Or, you can cross Tillicum Bridge to walk to Esquimalt Gorge Park, where you’ll find a peaceful Japanese garden!

While walking is an option, the best way to explore the Gorge is by stand-up paddleboard or kayak. You’ll be able to see much more of the waterway, especially Portage Inlet!

36. Galloping Goose and Lochside Trails

Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or just looking for a leisurely ride, the Galloping Goose and Lochside Trails are two of the best ways to explore the beauty of Victoria by bike.

These trails shouldn’t be missed! Both are mostly flat, paved, and accessible for bikers of all levels. The trails are multi-use so they’re also great for walking and running.

The Galloping Goose is a 55-kilometer trail stretching from Victoria all the way to Sooke. The trail offers stunning views of the city, with beautiful murals (some goose-themed ones!) along the way. The trail passes must-see spots like the Selkirk Trestle across the Gorge Waterway, Thetis Lake, Hatley Castle, and Sooke Potholes.

The Lochside Trail connects to the Galloping Goose at Switch Bridge and is a 29-kilometer north-south trail on the Saanich Peninsula. It runs from downtown Victoria to Swartz Bay, winding through rural landscapes along the way. Points of interest along the way include Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary, Mount Douglas Park, and the town of Sidney.

Don’t want to venture out on your own? Try this guided Castles and Neighborhoods Bike Tour . While it doesn’t take you on the Lochside or Galloping Goose Regional Trails, this bike tour will take you past some other landmarks around the city, like Craigdarroch Castle and Cook Street Village.

Book the Castles and Neighborhoods Bike Tour Here!

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:

• Ultimate 2-Day Itinerary for a Seattle to Victoria Trip
• One Day in Victoria, BC: Itinerary & Where to Go in 24 Hours
• 8 Beautiful Gardens around Victoria, BC
• 9 Wheelchair Accessible Beaches around Victoria, BC
• 11 Most Beautiful Beaches in Victoria, BC
• 20 Unusual Things to Do in Victoria, BC

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!

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32 best places to visit in Victoria

There are so many amazing places to visit in Victoria. Victoria is a state of diversity from the Australian Alps in the North East to limestone sea stacks that make the 12 Apostles in the south-west, to the arid desert-like condition of the northwest and Australia’s most southerly spot of Wilsons Promontory just to name a few. But what are some of the best places to visit in Victoria?

Places to visit in Victoria during Summer – Phillip Island

• Where to go in Victoria – Wilson's Promontory
• Victoria's interesting places – Mildura

Search for a stay at Ballarat below:

Best places to visit in victoria, australia.

Melbourne will most likely be your starting destination for visiting the sights of Victoria. Victoria is one of Australia’s smallest states but also it is the second most populated, and Melbourne, the world’s most livable city, is the capital.

We are proud to call this wonderful state home, and there is so much to explore in Victoria . Melbourne is forecast to overtake Sydney in the next 20 years as the most populous city in Australia.

In this places in Victoria Australia article, you will find submissions from some of Australia’s top bloggers who love these holiday places in Victoria and rate them as some of the best places to visit in Victoria. We hope some of the amazing destinations reviewed will inspire you to visit Victoria and find some of your own best places to visit in Victoria.

Places to visit in Victoria

Victoria is known for its scenic landscapes and natural beauty. With epic places to visit in Victoria, you will find that you will be blessed with so much to do.

It has many different regions to explore, so the traveller seeking to find peace and quiet can do so because there are many remote communities, while the explorer looking for culture and excitement will love Victoria’s amazing hidden gems in the small towns and regional areas.

Best places to visit in Eastern Victoria

For the sake of this article, we are classifying Eastern Victoria as most of the state that lies east of Melbourne. The two main highways that will take you through Eastern Victoria are the Princes Highway and the South Gippsland Highway.

A day trip from Melbourne is needed or a stay in the region to see the sights and landmarks in Victoria. You will find Eastern Victoria the least populated area of the state.

It’s known for its small towns, forests, National Parks, food and wine. Some of the best places to visit in Victoria’s east region include the major towns of Warragul, Traralgon, Leongatha and Bairnsdale. It is also home to Victoria’s most remote town Dargo and the Lions Club village of Licola.

The Gippsland Lakes , Phillip Island, Wilsons Promontory and the Victorian High Country are popular holiday places in Victoria. Here are all the best places to visit in Victoria in the east.

Tarra Bulga National Park

Tarra Bulga National Park is a hidden gem, located just over 2.5 hours from Melbourne in South Gippsland, we think it is one of the best, albeit lesser-known best places to visit in Victoria.

The National Park forms part of the Strzelecki Ranges and is one of only four cool temperate rainforests in Victoria (including the Otways, Central Highlands, East Gippsland and South Gippsland).

A cool temperate rainforest is cool, wet and dark with lots of ferns and moss. This Gippsland National Park is full of rainforests with giant Mountain Ash trees, beautiful fern gullies, spectacular views, gorgeous walks and an awesome suspension bridge.

From the visitor’s centre, there are a number of short walks, most are interlinking so you can make them longer by combining a couple together. 

These walks take you through and under the rainforest canopy. The Corrigan Suspension Bridge is one of the most popular walks and a must-do. The bridge stretches through the rainforest with magnificent views of the greenest, lushest fern gully. There are also ample spots for a picnic lunch.

The visitor centre provides picnic tables, barbeques, a shelter and a toilet while other picnic areas are set amongst the giant trees and tree ferns. Caravan Parks and various accommodation options are available within the Tarra Valley and surrounding areas, but camping is not permitted within the actual National Park. Make sure you also keep your eyes open for a Lyrebird on one of your walks.

Contributed by Amber, who blogs at Hill Tribe Travels

Mallacoota, is a picturesque and idyllic coastal town located on the far eastern coast of Victoria, near the New South Wales border. With its long beaches, crystal-clear waters, and luxurious inlets, Mallacoota is one of the most popular summer destinations for tourists in Victoria.

The town has a vibrant café and pub scene, with the local Mallacoota pub featuring live music regularly.

Mallacoota is well known for fishing with plenty of fishing spots both in the estuaries and offshore, This is perfect for those looking to enjoy some fresh seafood. The Mallacoota Caravan, which seems to encompass the whole town, has sites that front the water where you can keep your boat in the water.

Visitors can enjoy the sun and waves at the beach, canoeing, jet skiing, diving, bushwalking, or a game of Golf.

You can take a water taxi or guided tour to the nearby lighthouse at Gabo Island. Mallacoota really is about getting away and enjoying the coastal environment of Victoria.

Contributed by Mark from Poland Travel Expert

Planning a Victorian summer holiday?   Here is a guide to 8 brilliant summer destinations in Victoria

Buchan to visit Buchan Caves

The Buchan Caves are located in East Gippsland a stunning, scenic 45-minute drive from Lakes Entrance and Bairnsdale (another two amazing best places to visit in Victoria). The Buchan Caves reserve is managed by Parks Victoria and has camping and BBQ facilities for travellers or day-trippers to East Gippsland.

You can pitch a tent, bring a van or stay in luxury glamping accommodation for either a night or a longer stay at Buchan Caves one of the best places in Victoria.

The Park is popular for the caves that are able to be explored deep underground. The Fairy Cave and The Royal Cave were discovered early in the 19th century by complete accident. The Royal Cave is 500 meters long and has 150 steps in it, so it is not recommended for people with mobility issues.

When you are touring the caves you see amazing formations, with stunning underground ponds and are blown away at the beauty of it all. Elaborate stalactites and stalagmites are features that have been forming over millions of years from a time when this area was under the ocean. There is even one amazing fossilized fish that you can view.

Buchan Caves is home to many walking trails and native animals. It is not unusual to see Kangaroo hopping around and if you camp you will certainly see possums a night time.

There is a freshwater pool at the caves that fills with water straight out of a cave. It is often called the coldest pool in Victoria because it’s literally freezing. Buchan is one of the best places to visit in Victoria.

Contributed by Mark from Wyld Family Travel

Visiting places in Victoria – Lakes Entrance

Lakes Entrance has to be one of the best places to visit in Victoria. Lakes Entrance is the capital of the Gippsland Lakes located 320 km east of Melbourne and has a plethora of activities for anyone wanting to holiday in Gippsland.

Lakes Entrance has stunning beaches and is home to the pristine 90-mile beach as well as some of the best-grown produce in the state.

A great way to get around Lakes Entrance is to take your bike, as there is a bike path that runs the full length of the town. You can stop at one of the many amazing cafés for a rest if you need to. The Riviera Ice Cream Parlour is one of the favourite shops in town, as well as Big Bears Doughnuts.

If you are travelling to the Gippsland Lakes or Lakes Entrance with kids there are some fun parks to play at, especially on the North Arm near the bridge where you enter Lakes and at Eastern Beach . In the summer there is always a carnival on the foreshore with fun rides that is open until late.

If you don’t like swimming at the surf beach, there are some good spots in the lakes, especially at Kalimna Jetty where there are no waves, and it is nice and sandy. Find a place to stay in Lakes Entrance today

Contributed by Willow, who blogs at Travels in Gippsland

Visit Gippsland:  11 reasons you NEED to visit the Gippsland Lakes

Raymond Island for Koalas!

Many families that come to Australia are excited for up-close encounters with the country’s unique animals, especially the very cute koala. One of the best places to visit in Victoria for a look at these amazing creatures is an easy but extraordinary stop at tiny Raymond Island.

The island is a quick (and free for foot traffic) ferry ride from Paynesville, at the southern end of the Gippsland Lakes area.

Once you reach the shore, there are signs everywhere pointing out the route to the island’s resident population of native koalas!

Some of them live in the gum trees on people’s lawns, but the majority can be found in the small reserve area on the back of the island – just a twenty-minute walk from the ferry landing.

Here you can see koalas snoozing and munching on leaves and could just walk right up to their trees (though they’re wild animals, so make sure to keep a respectful distance). While strolling the peaceful island, you can also see echidnas and numerous native birds.

Contributed by Melissa who blogs at The Family Voyage

Places to go in Victoria – Healesville

An hour and forty minutes by car from Melbourne and nestled within the heart of the Yarra Valley, Healesville is an ideal destination for a weekend away or even a day trip from Melbourne.

While most people visit Healesville for the wine experiences offered there, it is not only an amazing wine destination in Victoria, there are so many other things to do in Healesville.

The Healesville Sanctuary makes for a popular day out for couples, friends or families. Home to Australia’s most beloved furry, feathered and scaled friends, you can book a close encounter with a wombat, echidna and various other animals, or just wander around the sanctuary at your own pace.

Other amazing Healeseville activities include the Maroondah Reservoir Park, locally known as Maroondah Dam. Here you can admire the local birdlife (the place is infested with cockatoos, galahs, mynahs and sacred ibis) and have a picnic.

There’s a playground for the children, gardens to be explored and a waterfront-walking trail, offering panoramic views of the dam itself.

If you don’t mind dealing with kids on a sugar high, plan a visit to the Yarra Valley Chocolaterie, where tons of delicious treats are made onsite. You may not buy any chocolate, but there are free samples on offer and at the very least, beautiful views of the surrounding valley.

You can also spend the day visiting some of the best cellar doors in the state. The Yarra Valley is world-known for having some of the most stunning vineyards for visitors to experience.

The town centre is worth a wander down too, featuring bookstores, boutique shops, and naturally, bottle-o making Healesville one of the best places to visit in Victoria. Book a stay in Healesville today .

Contributed by LC who blogs at Birdgehls

Phillip Island remains one of Victoria’s most well-known attractions because of its nightly penguin parade. But, The Island is about so much more than this, there is literally something for everyone on Phillip Island.

Phillip Island is an easy day tour outside of Melbourne’s CBD (175 km drive), but one day really isn’t enough to enjoy one of the best places in South East Victoria.

Cowes is the centrepiece of Phillip Island with a bustling main street sitting right within Cowes Main Beach and its iconic pier and is a great lunch stop with beautiful views. From there you can also do some amazing wildlife cruises to Seal Rocks – home to the largest fur seal colony in Australia and at the right time of the year an amazing Whale watching experience.

There are many surf beaches on the island including the famed Smiths Beach and Cape Woolami which are true local haunts that shouldn’t be missed.

For motorheads, the MotoGP is held here every year in October which shuts the roadway to the island down, so plan to stay a few days to beat the rush if you do attend.

But for many, it is The Nobbies that truly shine on any visit – a boardwalk overlook that has views of the coast, a blowhole, and the home of the original Artic Journey.

If you only get to see one attraction here, visiting Phillip Island must be it! Don’t forget to book your Phillip Island accommodation

Contributed by Toni who blogs at Enchanted Serendipity

Visit Phillip Island: Plan your trip with our ultimate guide with things to do on Phillip Island

The town of Walhalla in Gippsland is one that is often referred to as a town that time forgot. It is an easy day trip from Melbourne and is one of the best places to visit in Victoria.

There are plenty of things to do in Walhalla for all ages and you will find many people enjoying a day out in Walhalla or people camping in the summer months. Located in a valley it is the perfect place to escape the city. Walhalla was originally a big gold mining town.

Once the gold disappeared so did many of the residents but the old buildings are still remnants of the past. The rotunda in the town is a beautiful memory of the times gone by.

If you are visiting Walhalla you may want to go on a ride on the Walhalla Goldfield railway, take a tour of the old Gold mines, wander the main street and have a look at some of the old shops. There are some cafes there for you to eat at or the pub or if you are looking to cook a BBQ there are free areas in the Lions Park in the main street.

Many people also take the time to have a look at the Walhalla cemetery which is located on the side of the hill and has many stories on the tombstones about how hard life was back in the gold rush era. Walhalla in Autumn is stunning with the ever-changing colours of the leaves.

Where to go in Victoria – Wilson’s Promontory

Wilsons Promontory, also known as The Prom, is a national park located in the Gippsland region of Victoria. It is known for its rugged coastal scenery, a diverse range of flora and fauna, and various hiking and camping opportunities.

Visitors can explore the park’s many beaches, bushwalks, and lookouts, and also participate in activities such as swimming, fishing, and bird watching. You can also join a whale-watching cruise off Wilsons Prom for an unforgettable experience. Walks to Squeaky Beach, Little Waterloo Bay and the lighthouse are popular.

Tidal River is the main settlement in the park, with a Park’s Victoria visitors information centre, a small shop, a wilderness cruise booking stall and campgrounds. It’s a wonderful place to visit and explore the natural beauty of Australia. Did you know the most southerly part of mainland Australia is Wilson’s Promontory?

Inverloch is a popular destination on the Bass Coast in southeast Victoria. It is a popular destination in the summer months for families who enjoy the clear waters and scenic surroundings.

Fishing in the Inlet and off the nearby rocks is popular, with a variety of fish such as snapper and gummy sharks on offer.

For something a little more interesting, why not explore the Dinosaur Dreaming Fossil Site? The site is known for its rich deposits of fossils from the Early Cretaceous period, including those of the ornithopod dinosaurs, such as Leaellynasaura, and the theropod dinosaur Australovenator.

You can see Dinosaur footprints in the rocks and walk in the steps of these amazing creatures.

Enjoy the local food and wine at the cafes and restaurants in the town and visit the Inverloch Farmers Market on Sunday.

Dargo is a small town located in the high country region of Victoria, Australia. The town is situated on the Dargo River and is surrounded by beautiful forests and mountains, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

One of the main reasons people visit Dargo is its access to the Alpine National Park, which offers a range of activities such as hiking, camping, fishing, and horse riding. The park is home to several stunning natural attractions, including the historic Wonnangatta Station, the Crooked River, and the iconic High Plains.

In addition to outdoor activities, Dargo is also known for its rich history and heritage. The town was originally a gold mining settlement, and visitors can still see remnants of the mining era, such as the Dargo Heritage Museum and the Dargo Cemetery.

Furthermore, Dargo is a popular spot for off-road driving and 4WD adventures, as it offers challenging tracks and stunning scenery.

Dargo is a beautiful and rugged town that offers a range of activities for those who love the outdoors, history, and adventure.

Places to visit in Northern Victoria

The northern area of  Victoria  is made up of the beautiful Goulburn Valley and the plentiful riverside towns situated along the Murray River. On the Murray is the wonderful Barmah State Park. There are many bird species within the unique wetland region and the largest Redgum forest in the world.

Skiing at places like Mount Buffalo and Mount Buller in the winter months is popular. Major towns in the area include Mildura, Swan Hill, Echuca and Shepparton. The North is easily accessed by the Northern Highway and Hume Freeway to visit places of interest in Victoria.

Best places to visit in regional Victoria – Mount Buffalo

Mt Buffalo is an imposing peak in the North East Victoria region, standing at 1,267 metres above sea level. It’s a popular destination for bushwalkers and day-trippers who can explore its lookouts, Heritage-listed Chalet and rugged undulating terrain while  staying in Bright  and surrounds.

There are also several waterfalls and lakes located on the mountain, making it a great place to spend a day out in nature. In wintertime, visitors can enjoy the snow gums and wildflowers that grow on the mountain.

In the summer months, you can go swimming and canoeing on Lake Catani. There are plenty of designated areas to pull up for a picnic with tables and chairs. The drive to the top is memorable, with many places to stop and see the views over the north.

Victoria tourist spots – Glenrowan

Glenrowan, a small town near Wangaratta, is best known as the site of the infamous bushranger Ned Kelly and his gang’s last stand. Pick up a copy of the Glenrowan Heritage Siege Precinct walking map and take a stroll around this historic town, relieving stories and legends from the past.

The map can be found at local businesses or at the local information stand at the Glenrowan Bakehouse.

The sites of significance around Glenrowan are well-marked and easy to find. Each site has a large placard with plenty of information on the events that transpired during the siege of Glenrowan.

There are even some statues erected representing bushrangers (you can also visit the Melbourne Gaol ) and the police to help visitors really get a feel for what it would have been like on those very streets back in 1880.

Be sure to have your photo taken with the 6-meter-tall statue of Ned Kelly in the village and also to walk over the bridge that connects the main road with the appropriately named Siege Street.

On Seige Street, you’ll find the site of Ann Jones’ Glenrowan Inn, the siege site, the Police Shelter Site and the Ned Kelly Capture Site (there is a plaque on the ground so you can’t miss it). If you enjoy history Glenrowan is one of the best places to visit in Victoria.

Contributed by Christine who blogs at Adventure Baby

Places to visit in Victoria in Winter – Dinner Plain

Dinner Plain is the newest township in the state of Victoria. This Alpine Ski village was built just down the road from Mount Hotham as a location for cross-country skiing. Dinner Plain borrows its designs from European Ski villages with its chalets and building, it is worth a stop to walk around and look at the architecture in the Alpine region of Victoria .

The Dinner Plain Hotel is open all year round serving meals and drinks. The are other shops and cafes that open mainly during the snow season when the town is at its busiest. For fitness enthusiasts, Dinner Plain is known for its mountain biking and trail running tracks in the National Park.

For something, a little less energetic and more fun Frisbee golf is the go. Staying the night at Dinner Plain is a great idea with awesome accommodation options available at  Club Wyndham Dinner Plain .

Bright is one of those places that you might not see in an Australian guidebook but is a favourite weekend getaway for Victorians and one of the most beautiful and best places to visit in Victoria. Set in the Victorian High Country, nestled beside the beautiful Mount Buffalo National Park, Bright truly is a four-season destination. 

In winter, Bright is your gateway to skiing and snow sports. Come summer, there is nothing better than enjoying a cold beer at the Bright Brewery while the kids play in the Ovens River. But, the very best time to visit Bright is in the autumn, when the trees come alive with colour.

The best way to experience the autumn colours is by cycling the Murray to Mountains rail trail.  You can stop off at numerous cute cafes and wineries while taking in nature’s palette.  The annual Bright Autumn Festival in May showcases the region’s produce, foodie culture, art and of course the majestic colours.

Head outside of the town to enjoy some hiking by driving up to Mount Buffalo.  Here the snow gums tower over interesting rock formations and you can enjoy the numerous waterfalls in the Park and beautiful Lake Catani. Book a weekend or week away in Bright , we recommend staying at Discovery Parks Bright .

Contributed by Dawn who blogs at 5 Lost Together

Victorian weekend getaways: All the very best things to do in Bright

Located just over an hour north of Melbourne is the town of Nagambie. Most people visiting the town either come for Nagambie Lake or the nearby wineries. Lake Nagambie is a man-made lake that came about from the damming of the Goulburn River, creating one of the biggest lakes in Victoria for recreational use.

There are a few hotels and a Discovery Parks property on the shore of the lake for visitors who arrive looking to participate in popular activities such as fishing, canoeing, jet skis and more.

The Nagambie area is also known as one of the places in Victoria where you can get some amazing wine. Names such as Mitchelton and Tahbilk dominate the area, Tahbilk for its heritage as being one of the oldest wineries in the state.

Mitchelton on the other hand is modern and renowned for its architecture with a huge winemaking complex consisting of a Restaurant, Art Gallery and hotel.

Around the town, you can visit the Goulburn Weir, Gold Mining sites, and Kirwans Bridge for starters. The town of Nagambie itself has a golf course, brewery, and a number of options for eating such as the local RSL, Thai by the Lake and the Eighteen Sixty wine bar just to name a few.

Contributed by Mark, who writes at Wyld Family Travel

Places to see in Victoria – Hepburn Springs

The towns of Daylesford and the lesser-known Hepburn Springs are two of the most delightful places to visit in Victoria. Approximately a two-and-a-half-hour drive from Melbourne, past the magnificent Macedon Ranges.

There are quite a few wineries along the way and a hidden waterfall too if you’re feeling brave enough for an adventure. All in all, making it a rather pleasant drive through the mountains.

The best things to do in Hepburn Springs are to eat yourself silly, spoil yourself at a spa treatment and enjoy a walk around the wonderful historical gardens. The twin towns boast wonderful food, wine and coffee as well as one of Australia’s best cideries at  Daylesford Cider .

The area is also brimming with local artists showcasing their work, historical buildings turned into galleries and antique stores galore. Now if you think that these two towns can’t get any better this area is incredibly LGBTQI-friendly.  Daylesford hosts a variety of LGBTQI events every year.

Contributed by Jean who blogs at Travelling Honeybird

The Macedon Ranges

The Macedon Ranges area is a short trip from Melbourne, perfect for weekend getaways or even a lazy Sunday drive. Consisting of the townships of Gisborne, Riddells Creek, Woodend, Macedon, Malmsbury, Lancefield, Romsey, Mount Macedon and Kyneton, this area has a rich history and breathtaking natural wonders, whilst also being a foodie haven for those looking to treat themselves.

From Kyneton’s historic Piper Street and mineral springs where you can pump sparkling water straight from the ground at the rest stop on Burton Avenue as you head past the Campaspe River, to Malmsbury and its incredible viaduct; through to Mount Macedon’s famous Memorial Cross and then, of course, the iconic Hanging Rock (yes, the very one from the movie!).

This area boasts a wealth of experiences suitable for families, couples and even the lone adventure traveller. Any of these towns are some of the best places to visit in Victoria and will make your holiday spectacular.

If you’re looking for a place to stay, look up the  Flop House   for a range of beautifully curated boutique homes awaiting your booking. And for food? The options are endless, although Major Tom’s in Kyneton has come highly recommended by locals if you’re looking for a burger!

Contributed by Leah who blogs at Kid Bucket List

Autumn in Victoria: 13 spectacular places to visit for amazing autumn colours

Victoria’s interesting places – Mildura

A remote town on the edge of the Outback, set on the banks of the beautiful Murray River, Mildura is an incredible region, with an irresistible appeal. Mildura is rated as one of the best places to visit in Victoria. A one-hour flight from Melbourne, or a six-hour drive, it is a fabulous base for some of the country’s most fascinating National Parks, water-based adventure, and local Australian produce.

Oozing regional Australian charm, Mildura is a very pretty town with sunny Mediterranean weather, riverbank walks, and the opportunity to drift down the Murray River aboard a luxury houseboat.

As far as nearby natural wonders are concerned, this is your base for the World Heritage-listed Mungo National Park (an important cultural site, with aboriginal relics that date back 45,000 years), Hattah-Kulkyne National Park with its beautiful bush setting and range of iconic wildlife, and the pink salt lakes of Murray Sunset National Park.

Mildura has been described as an ‘important Australian food bowl’, with adjacent agricultural districts and award-winning wines drawing foodies into town. You’ll find an abundance of grapes, citrus fruits, almonds, olives, countless varieties of vegetables and much more here.

There are award-winning wineries and oil farms, and no shortage of great places to eat in Mildura.

Mildura really does have it all, so put it on your list of towns to visit in Victoria soon! You will find plenty of accommodation options in Mildura for your stay

Contributed by Megan who blogs at Mapping Megan

Road trip Victoria: Our easy drive North East Victorian road trip itinerary will guide you!

If you are looking for the perfect spot for a relaxing weekend, a biking or hiking getaway with the kids or a romantic escape, Milawa in country Victoria should be on your list of towns to visit in Victoria. Situated in one of the wine and gourmet regions in the north of the state, Milawa is also a short hop from the regional centre of Wangaratta and is approximately 2 and ½ hours out of Melbourne.

Take a walk or a bike ride along the bike trails that surround Milawa and you’ll soon find yourself visiting the many cellar doors, farm gates and gourmet food stores.

Grab a map and pick up a bike at the local bike hire or borrow one from the Brown Brothers cellar door. Stop in at one of the cafés or restaurants for a leisurely lunch, ice cream or coffee break.

Try your hand at some cooking at Pizzini’s Wine Cooking School or sample some gourmet local cheese from Milawa’s historic cheese factory. Better still, you can just sit back and relax, wine in hand.

With a range of boutique accommodations, overlooking vineyards this gorgeous town will provide you with a retreat from reality, once you’re there you’ll find it very hard to go home. Milawa is definitely one of the best places to visit in Victoria with so much to offer.

Contributed by Julie who blogs at A Not So Young Woman Abroad

Victoria destinations – Echuca

Echuca is a stunning town and one that is filled to the brim with amazing Australian history. If you are a history buff then, Echuca is one of the best places to visit in Victoria.

Many people visit Echuca to ride the Murray River on one of the historic paddle steamers that were the lifeblood of the towns located along the Murray. These old streamers are amazing relics of the past that give joy to all who get to ride one.

While you are cruising the Murray you are also given a guide by the captain as to what boat you are riding in and a talk about how important the river was.

After you have enjoyed your cruise a wander through the Echuca Discovery Center gives you another view of how the Murray shaped Victoria in the early years of settlement.

If you are able to go on a guided tour of the centre and have one of the workers walk you through the history of the area. They will also tell you the stories of the town and how it became so popular after the filming of ‘All the Rivers Run’.

If you are travelling to Echuca with kids (or you are a kid at heart) you may want to take them a little out of town for a visit to the Kyabram fauna park or Cactus Country. For anyone interested in Silo Art there is also a small easily accessible silo art trail that is wonderful.

All this makes Echuca one of the best places to visit in Victoria. Find your place to stay in Echuca today.

Chiltern – hidden places to visit in Victoria

Chiltern is a historic town in Northern Victoria, Australia. You will find plenty of things to do in this little town. Explore Chiltern-Mt. Pilot National Park, is known for its eucalyptus forests old gold mining history and birdlife.

Wander the well-preserved Chiltern Historic Precinct, with gold rush-era buildings such as the old Chiltern Police lockup from the mid-1870s and supposedly Australia’s oldest grapevine. Enjoy the serenity of Lake Anderson, perfect for walking, picnics and birdwatching.

Don’t miss the town’s cosy eateries, and consider staying in charming bed-and-breakfasts or cottages. Chiltern offers history, nature, and relaxation in one quaint package.

Read more: Looking for Silo Art check out these 2 amazing Silo Art Trails in Northern Victoria.

Best places to visit in Western Victoria

Western Victoria is home to many of Victoria’s great attractions, and Western Victoria is one of the best places to visit in Victoria. The number one thing is the Great Ocean Road and the 12 Apostles. Many people go on an organised tour or take a road trip down Victoria’s coast.

This region is home to Geelong, Victoria’s largest provincial city, and Ballarat , Victoria’s largest inland city. There is a number of National Parks and major tourist attractions in towns such as Bendigo, Ballarat and Warrnambool. The Western district is known for its dairy farms and rolling green pastures.    

Aireys Inlet

Just before the historic arch that marks the start of the Great Ocean Road is the little town of Airey’s Inlet. Famous for its wide sweeping beaches and the iconic lighthouse, Airey’s (as the locals call it) is one of the most scenic best places to visit in Victoria.

For a small town, Airey’s packs a big punch and is the perfect weekend getaway or stop on your Great Ocean Road trip. Start your visit by taking a long walk along the beach at nearby Urquhart’s Bluff to watch the local surfers ride some huge waves and potter in rockpools.

After your beach walks, stop for a snack at Willows Teahouse below the Split Point lighthouse. From the cafe explore the beautiful clifftop walks and lookout spots. Several times a day there are guided tours of the lighthouse. On the tour, you can climb to the top and enjoy incredible views of the southern Victorian coastline. 

The Airey’s Pub is well known for its huge outdoor beer garden with views of the sea, pub menu and in-house craft brewery. You can spend a relaxing afternoon there taking in the sea views. Or, if you want a culture fix, head over the road and enjoy the exhibitions featuring local artists at the Eagle’s Nest Fine Art Gallery.

For a relaxing time away, Airey’s Inlet has to be one of the best places to visit in Victoria. Book your stay on the coast today at Airey’s Inlet

Contributed by Katy who blogs at Untold Morsels

Regional Victoria places to visit – Ballarat

Ballarat is one of the best places to visit in Victoria as it is one of the oldest towns in Victoria with so many activities for all ages. What makes Ballarat one of the best places to visit in Victoria is that there are so many fun places to explore.

Ballarat is a very easy place to get to being only 100 kilometres from Melbourne which can be done in a day trip from Melbourne or you can plan a trip to Ballarat for a few days. The possibilities for a visit to Ballarat are endless!

Sovereign Hill is its most famous attraction for Ballarat sightseeing and draws visitors from all over the state. Here, you can learn what it was like to be a gold miner in the area during the Gold Rush. It’s set up like an old mining town, and it’s fun for all ages.

You can pan for gold, dress up in old-style clothes and watch working exhibits where you can learn how blacksmiths worked or people made sweets. There are also mine tours.

But there is more to Ballarat than Sovereign Hill. You can also visit Kryal Castle to learn about medieval times. There was a maze, jousting and many demonstrations when we visited as well as the castle itself to walk through, although Kryal Castle is not actually a real castle!

Between these two Ballarat attractions, you could easily spend a day in Ballarat, but if you are around longer, there is also the Ballarat Wildlife Park, Ballarat Tramway Museum, Museum of Australian Democracy at Eureka (MADE) which is a small museum about the events of the Eureka Stockade. There is also a tram museum, beautiful botanical gardens, a wildlife park and many more features.

Contributed by Sharon who blogs at Simple and Smarter

With so many places to stay in Ballarat, you can easily use this map to find the perfect stay for your trip to Ballarat.

Loch Ard Gorge

Loch Are Gorge is a favourite enchanting destination with a legendary tale and one of the best places to visit in Victoria. The Gorge is named after a ship, called the Loch Ard, which in 1878 ran aground on Muttonbird Island. Out of 54 passengers and crew, only two teenagers survived. One of them was a young 15-year-old named Tom.

After washing up on shore, Tom heard cries for help coming from the water. Tom dove straight back into the water to rescue 17-year-old Eva. Once she was ashore, Tom then climbed out of the gorge to seek help. What a hero!

If that story doesn’t leave you stirred, the view surely will with its breathtaking high walls and the unrelenting ocean waves lapping the warm yellow sand. Enjoy the view from the top, but make time to actually climb down the stairs and let the sand get between your toes at one of the most beautiful places in Victoria.

For many visiting this area, this Great Ocean Road attraction is at the top of their list of best places to visit in Victoria for locals and international tourists alike.

Port Campbell is the closest town to stay to Loch Ard Gorge and the 12 Apostles.

Contributed by Erin who blogs at Explore with Erin

Cool places to visit in Victoria – Barwon Heads

Barwon Heads has changed dramatically over the years, it was originally a sleepy little beachside town with beach shack weekenders for Melbourne holidaymakers. Now you will find the town filled to the brim with everything new and shiny and rated as one of the best places to visit in Victoria in summer.

During Christmas and school holidays, towns on the Bellarine Peninsula swell with holidaymakers, wanting to make the best of the fun, sun sand and surfing. The main street is full of cafes and trendy shops but the fish and chip shop is still there and a town favourite.

The local pub hasn’t changed and is located right across from the caravan park, facing the beach it’s still a favourite place for everyone to end the day. You are still guaranteed to still get a great parma for a reasonable price. Barwon Heads has a great family-friendly beach just next to the bridge on the Barwon River, it’s shallow has no waves and is perfect for little kids.

For bigger kids, Raffles Beach is perfect for those wanting to learn how to surf and just enough waves to have fun. It can at times get rough and like any Australian beach, you need to be aware of rips and be a relatively good swimmer.  Search for great accommodation in Barwon Heads.

Contributed by Sally who blogs at our3kidsvtheworld

Cape Ottway

From the moment that you turn onto Lighthouse Road off the Great Ocean Road,  Victoria, it’s clear that Cape Otway is a very special location in Australia. As you drive through the Great Otway National Park, be sure to stop and take a closer look – the road is thickly forested with koala-inhabited gum trees on either side.

Some of them seem close enough to reach out and touch! If you can drag yourself away from these grey, furry little cuties, continue on down the road to the stunning Peninsula.

At the end of the road, you can visit the Cape Otway Lightstation. This significant tourist attraction hosts one of the most beautiful lighthouses in Australia, just one of several attractions grouped together for the one entrance fee ($19.50 per adult or $49.50 per family of four).

You can climb the staircase right up to the top of the lighthouse for spectacular ocean views, grab a bite to eat at the café or visit one of the several historical outbuildings and indigenous sites.

As if that wasn’t enough, there is, even more, to see at Cape Otway including the Otway Fly treetop walk . Located on a remote beach at Point Franklin, just a short drive and then bushwalk from the Light station you’ll find a historically significant dinosaur bone excavation dig. There’s so much to do and see at Cape Otway, Victoria – we think it’s one of the best places to visit in Victoria!

Contributed by Barbara who blogs at Lets Go Mum.

Discover hidden gems: 22 best things to do in Warrnambool

Holiday in Victoria near The 12 Apostles

Arguably the most well-known attraction on Victoria’s Great Ocean Road, the Twelve Apostles are a collection of limestone stacks just off the shore of the Port Campbell National Park and stand proudly at almost 150ft tall alongside the road making for the perfect road trip backdrop.

The pillars were christened with the name the 12 Apostles in the 1920s (prior to this they were called the Sow and Piglets!) – despite the fact, that there were only 9 at the time. And this number has since been reduced to 7 as the waves and wind that carved them out of the shoreline in this first place, have worn away and reclaimed two of the columns it originally created.

But with the nature of the coast and the extreme weather conditions, it faces every year, more columns are expected to develop over time (although there is no guarantee they’ll join the established lineup!)

The best way to experience the (remaining) Apostles is on the beautiful boardwalk that has been built and provides the perfect viewing platform out over the water. For a different view, you can also take a helicopter flight above and over them. And if you can, time your visit with sunrise or sunset. You won’t be disappointed and you will remember this as one of the most memorable and best places to visit in Victoria.

Contributed by Vicki who blogs at The Big Australia Bucket List

The Grampians

The Grampians are an absolute must when planning a trip to Melbourne and its surroundings. From large sandstone mountain ranges to waterfalls and meeting local Kangaroos, there are so many things to see and do. To reach this beautiful part of Victoria, you’re looking at a distance of 260 kilometres west of the Melbourne CBD and around 3 hours driving.

The area is renowned for hiking, rock climbing and other outdoor activities and can be enjoyed at your own leisure depending on the time you have allowed which makes the Grampians one of the best places to visit in Victoria for nature lovers.

If time is of the essence, you are able to see the main attractions in a short period of time, with a weekend more than plausible for ticking off those bucket list items.

Throughout the National Park, there are many attractions including Boroka Lookout, Mount William, The Pinnacle, The Balconies and Reed’s Lookout.

If there is one place to visit that is not to be missed, it’s the ever-so-popular Mackenzie Falls. With high rainfall throughout the year, the falls continue to flow and are the most breathtaking sight to behold.

If you want to finish your day in the most Australian fashion, a quick visit to the Halls Gap (one of the best towns to visit in Victoria for access to the Grampians) local football oval at dusk will allow you up close and personal with the native Kangaroos. A great way to complete a visit to not only the Grampians and Melbourne but also Australia. Book an amazing stay in Halls Gap

Contributed by Joey who blogs at JC Adventure Images

Geelong – Where to go on holiday in Victoria

Geelong is a city located just an hour’s drive from Melbourne. It is known for its rich history, scenic coastal views, and vibrant cultural scene, In recent years the Geelong waterfront has had an upgrade and a revival with new restaurants and green spaces.

In Geelong, you can explore the city’s historical sites, such as the Geelong Botanic Gardens, The Old Geelong Goal and the National Wool Museum. For those who like beer, a visit to the Little Creatures Brewery complex is a must. It is a great example of how Geelong’s industrial past has been repurposed for tourism.

For art lovers, the Geelong Art Gallery features a collection of Australian and international art and has over 6,000 works of art in its collection. Bike riders will love the Bellarine rail trail and for adventure seekers why not take a hot air balloon ride?

Many Visitors will start their travel to regional Victoria from Melbourne, especially if they are from interstate or overseas. Below you will find some information to make your initial stay in Melbourne easier before deciding where to travel in Victoria.

Warrnambool

Warrnambool is a coastal gem in southwestern Victoria! Explore the stunning Shipwreck Coast with its iconic Twelve Apostles and Loch Ard Gorge. The most well-known tourist attraction in town is Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village, where you will learn about the area’s maritime history.

Witness the iconic Southern Right Whales in season at Logan’s Beach. Stroll along the picturesque Lake Pertobe, perfect for family fun. Discover the vibrant art scene at Warrnambool Art Gallery and indulge in local cuisine at top-notch eateries.

Whether you’re into nature, history, or culture, Warrnambool has something for everyone. Don’t miss this coastal haven on your Australian adventure!

Planning to explore Victoria more?  Here are the best things to do in Halls Gap, the gateway to the Grampians!

The best places to visit in the Melbourne area

Melbourne is known for its vibrant cultural scene, excellent food, coffee, and wine, as well as its beautiful parks and gardens. The city of Melbourne is divided into several suburbs and areas, each with its own unique character and attractions. Some of the most popular suburbs include:

There are many things to do and see in the suburb of St Kilda in Melbourne, Victoria, Australia. St Kilda is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, offering a variety of attractions and activities.

One of the main draws of St Kilda is its beautiful beach, which is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing. The website also highlights the many cafes, bars, and restaurants in the area, which offer a diverse range of cuisine and atmosphere.

In addition to the beach and dining options, the website suggests several other activities to try in St Kilda. These include visiting the iconic Luna Park amusement park, exploring the St Kilda Botanical Gardens, or taking a stroll down the lively Acland Street to browse the many shops and boutiques.

Getting to Melbourne

• Melbourne is the second biggest city in Australia. Melbourne International Airport is 23 kilometres from the city centre.
• Melbourne is serviced by many international airlines and budget carriers Jetstar, Tiger, Scoot and AirAsia just to name a few. You can check the prices of international flights to Australia with  Kiwi . Domestic flights can be booked with Webjet  
• There is no direct public transport link with Melbourne Airport. You can catch the Skybus or you can book an airport transfer with Suntransfers who we have personally used on many occasions.
• You can book a rental car and have it waiting for you at Melbourne Airport so you can road trip to all the best places to visit in Victoria.

Getting around Melbourne

Myki is Melbourne’s ticketing system for travel on the city’s trains, trams and buses. International and interstate visitors coming to Victoria can buy a  Myki Explorer pack . The Myki pack combines a ready-to-use Myki card, visitor information and special offers for travellers looking for all the best places to visit in Victoria.

It’s a great option for visitors who choose to explore Melbourne and regional Victoria by public transport! You need to touch your Myki card on and off when you use the public transport system. The   Free Tram Zone  in Melbourne’s CBD makes it easy to move around the city. On the free trams, you do not need to touch on and off with a Myki. Download the Free Tram Zone map on the  Maps page .

If you are using public transport in Melbourne here are some added ideas on top things to see and do:

• Shrine Of Remembrance
• Watch an AFL game
• Melbourne Zoo entry
• Federation Square
• Street Art Tour
• Picnic on the Yarra River
• SeaLife Aquarium
• Melbourne Museum
• Queen Victoria Market
• Melbourne Sports Experience
• Balloon ride at Sunrise
• Legoland Discovery Centre
• Skydive over St Kilda

Discover More: 23 spectacular Melbourne tourist attractions you can’t miss

Where to stay in Melbourne

• Melbourne has accommodation options for every budget from hostels to apartments and hotel rooms
• Hostels in Melbourne can start from as little as $21 a night for a shared dorm room.
• You can search Melbourne apartment accommodation offerings .
• Hotels in Melbourne generally start from around $100 a night for a double room and increase incrementally as the luxury rating rises towards 5 stars. Google states that a 3-star average is around $113, and a 5-star average is $314 for a night stay. You can compare and book your stay on Agoda or Trip Advisor.

There are so many best places to visit in Victoria so put some of these amazing places on your next Victorian road trip itinerary.

We hope this article from us here at Explore Victoria has inspired you to embark on your adventure in Victoria, Australia, from popular  caravan parks  and  pristine beaches  to drives along the  Great Ocean Road . Enjoy weekends away on the Mornington Peninsula and discover the cosmopolitan charm of  Melbourne, Victoria ,  with a range of experiences for every traveller who wants to visit Victoria.

Whether you’re drawn to the rugged beauty of the Grampians, the cultural richness of Ballarat , or the autumn colours of  Bright  and  Northern Victoria , there’s no shortage of hidden gems waiting to be discovered in Victoria.

Even if you love  exploring Gippsland  or driving the  Great Alpine Road , Victoria has something special for you, and there is so much more for you to discover. If you are looking for more incredible and best places to  visit in Melbourne  or more travel in Victoria destinations,  Explore Victoria  has some more articles below for you to check out. Expand your horizons and get out and about in Victoria, Australia, for an unforgettable experience. 

If you have an idea, attraction, or top spot in Victoria, please comment or email us at  [email protected] .

More best places to visit in Victoria inspiration

The best free things to do in Melbourne

The very best things to do in Lakes Entrance

Fun things to do with kids in Victoria

Mark Wyld is a passionate writer and explorer, weaving tales inspired by a deep love for his home state of Victoria. With local knowledge, Mark seeks to share insights and experiences that captivate and inspire readers. When not immersed in writing, you can find him working in Disability Support or spending time with family and friends. Follow Mark for a journey through Victoria’s best sights, tastes and attractions.

Traveling Canucks

Canada Family Travel Blog

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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23 Fantastic Things to Do in Victoria BC

• Post author: Lisa Garrett
• Post last modified: February 22, 2024
• Post category: Canada / Cruise Ports

Disclaimer :  This page may contain affiliate links.  I earn a small commission if you make a purchase through these links (at no additional cost to you).

Planning a trip to Victoria? You’ll want to know all of the best things to do in Victoria, BC, and you’ve come to the right place!

Victoria is the capital of the province of British Columbia and is known as Canada’s ‘Garden City’ for its stunning gardens.  

Are you taking a cruise to Victoria BC? It’s a popular Alaska cruise port, and it’s definitely one of my personal favorites! (I visited it twice just last year on back-to-back Alaska cruises!)

(And for an unforgettable cruise experience, there are also plenty of amazing Victoria tours and shore excursions you can splurge on!)

Are you ready to book your trip to Victoria?

Looking for the top picks for your  trip to Victoria BC ? Here are some of the best Victoria tours and shore excursions to help you plan the perfect once-in-a-lifetime trip!

Top Tours and Experiences in Victoria:

• Half-Day Whale Watching Adventure (Top seller! Admire orcas, humpbacks, and more!)
• Victoria + Butchart Gardens Private Tou r (Customized private tour!)
• S unset Whale Watching Tour (Award winning whale watching experience!)
• Panoramic Seaplane Tour (Exhilarating panoramic views!)
• Guided Food + History Tour (Sample local favorite foods on this best-selling tour!)
• Zodiac Whale Watching Adventure (Get up close on this small-group zodiac tour)
• Butchart Gardens Shut tle + Entry Ticket (Skip the rental car, take the shuttle)

Top Hotels in Victoria:

• Fairmont Empress (Iconic, elegant 4-star hotel on the Victoria harbor, with spa!)
• Regent Waterfront Hotel & Suites (Suites are perfect for families)
• Oswego Hotel (Highly rated boutique hotel!)

Whether you’re visiting this beautiful Canadian city for a day on a cruise or staying for a weekend, you’ll find many excellent things to do in Victoria! This beautiful city boasts a wide range of attractions, from incredible gardens to elegant architecture to rugged landscapes.

Wondering what to do in Victoria BC? I’ve got all the top attractions here for you!

Lace up your shoes and let’s go!

Table of Contents

Best Things to do in Victoria BC Canada

1. marvel at the incredible butchart gardens (top pick).

If you are at all a fan of gardens, you will want to tour the fabulous Butchart Gardens . It’s definitely my favorite attraction in Victoria!

The Butchart Gardens are a spectacular collection of gardens, filled with flowers in every color of the rainbow .  The Butchart Gardens are part of the greater Victoria area and are a large part of why Victoria is known as ‘the Garden City’. 

The Butchart Gardens are magnificent any time of year, but especially in the spring and summer.

The Butchart Gardens are about a half-hour drive north from Victoria, but a visit is definitely worth the drive, as they are one of the best gardens in the world .  These must-see gardens cover 55 acres and delight over a million visitors annually.

The Butchart Gardens were built out of a former limestone quarry, being beautifully repurposed after the quarry was depleted over 100 years ago.  The gardens have expanded and become more spectacular over the decades and are a National Historic Site of Canada.

Make the most of your trip with this private tour of Victoria and the Butchart Gardens . Prefer to do it yourself? This shuttle to the Butchart Gardens + admission ticket may be the best choice for you!

The Sunken Garden

The Butchart Gardens contain several differently themed gardens.  The main path starts you off at an overlook viewing the stunning Sunken Garden , which is (in my opinion) the most spectacular of the gardens.

The elaborate design of the Sunken Garden is incredible.  Multiple colors and patterns of plantings are mixed with manicured lawns and shrubbery, with densely forested hills rising in the background.

Continue along the paths to experience the Bog Garden, the Rose Garden, the serene Japanese Garden, the Italian Garden, and the Mediterranean Garden.   Take your time to explore the beauty of each of the garden styles.

The Ross Fountain

Paths meander amongst the gardens which also contain many gorgeous fountains, ponds, and statues.  Be sure to admire the Ross Fountain , dramatically set within a lake surrounded by cliffs and tall trees. 

Stay a while to enjoy the illuminated fountain show . This is also a favorite photo location in the Butchart Gardens.

If you’re hungry, stop by the restaurant, coffee shop, or gelateria for a pick-me-up.  There is also a seed and gift store if you’d like to take home a unique souvenir from your visit.

Here’s a beautiful video highlighting Butchart Gardens through the seasons:

Best things to do in Victoria (walking tour):

I call this the ‘cruise port walking loop’.  It contains all of the best things to do in Victoria BC — straight from your cruise ship dock in the Ogden Cruise Port Terminal.

My ‘DIY’ walking tour itself will take 3-4 hours as you take a journey through the top attractions of Victoria .

Being able to see so many fabulous attractions makes Victoria one of the best Alaska cruise ports of call !

2. See the First Nations Breakwater Murals and the Breakwater Lighthouse

You can’t miss seeing the breakwater as you leave the cruise terminal. It stretches out into water, curving protectively towards the Ogden Point Cruise Terminals.

Take a close look at the breakwater, and you’ll notice that it is painted with colorful murals . These ‘Unity Wall Murals’ honor the First Nations traditions and history.

This artistic project began in 2009, with art created along the inner curve of the breakwater. Due to strong positive public response, the project expanded to include the outer curve as well.

You can walk along the length of the breakwater to the Breakwater Lighthouse , which was built in 1916.

And, at the land end of the breakwater, you’ll find the Ogden Point Sundial . With this sundial, you are the item casting the shadow onto the ground. Just align your feet with the correct markings indicating months and timings in the year to ensure you’re accurate.

3. Walk along the waterfront to Holland Point Park

From the cruise terminal, follow Dallas Road south/south-east.  This route follows the coastline and you’ll enjoy waterfront views of the Strait of Juan de Fuca. 

The road leads to Holland Point Park .  The park is really just a natural area with a path and some benches, but it’s a fantastic place to watch the sunset !

Be sure to follow the trail through the park, the Dallas Road Waterfront Trail.  From here you’ll get the best views of the water, and if you look back towards the north you can see the cruise ships at dock.   

(Our cruise ship was the ‘small’ one on the right in this photo.  The neighboring mega-cruise ship made ours look like a toy!)

4. Enjoy the gardens of Beacon Hill Park

Beacon Hill Park is one of the largest and most beautiful city parks that I have had the pleasure to visit.  This Victorian-era park spans a massive 200 acres and has a wide diversity of attractions. 

You’ll find everything from rose gardens to sports courts to children’s playgrounds (and public washrooms).  Give yourself plenty of time to wander the park’s paths and explore its treasures. 

Prefer to explore a city on two wheels, rather than two feet? Check out this 5-star bike tour ! Cycle past Victoria landmarks while enjoying the fresh air and learning about the city’s colorful past on this Victoria Castles and Neighborhoods Bike Tour !

Manicured Gardens

Beacon Hill Park boasts gorgeous blooms throughout its manicured gardens.  Stoll along the paths and enjoy the lush green lawns edged by glorious blooms, or stop to smell the roses in the Rose Garden .   We even spotted some peacocks fearlessly roaming the park!

In addition to the more formal gardens, you’ll find more natural landscapes. Beacon Hill Park contains portions of the endangered Garry Oak ecosystem. 

Mile Zero Monument

Beacon Hill Park stands at the western end of the main Trans-Canada Highway.  The ‘ Mile Zero ’ monument marks the Victoria end of Highway 1, which stretches all the way to St. John’s on the eastern edge of Canada .

Highway 1 passes through nine of Canada’s ten provinces and many of its major cities.  (Please don’t ask me how a highway can jump from Vancouver Island to the mainland!)

World’s Tallest Totem Pole

Beacon Hill Park contains what claims to be world’s largest free-standing totem pole , although apparently many totem poles claim that title. 

Even Google can’t make up its mind on the height of this one –the name lists 127 feet while the description says 173 feet.  Either way, it is quite impressive and worth a closer look at the carvings and colors.

Splash Park

If you follow Circle Drive westwards, just before you reach the edge of the park, you’ll find the splash park area.    The main feature is this GIANT watering can.  There are controls over to the side that activate the water feature.

I had sent Chris on ahead to take a look around, and then triggered the spray (tee hee).  It’s actually quite a bit of water!  Look closely, and you can see the spray arcing his way. 

The Moss Lady

The Moss Lady is one of the iconic landmarks inside Beacon Hill Park. She was created in 2015 by artist Dale Doebert, and was inspired by the Mud Maid . The Mud Maid is located in the Lost Gardens of Heligan in Cornwall England.

There are some shady benches located across from the Moss Lady , a great place to enjoy this natural artwork.

5. Admire the Victorian Architecture of the Emily Carr House

Many of the grand buildings in the city feature elegant Victorian architecture , but don’t overlook the more everyday buildings. 

As you walk along the side streets heading from the park towards the harbor and museum, you’ll find many lovely examples of Victorian architecture in homes, inns, and shops.

The Emily Carr House and Museum is one of the better-known examples of Victorian architecture, and it’s located just a block from Beacon Hill Park. Emily Carr was a well-known Canadian painter, and her childhood home is now a National Historic Site of Canada .

What, exactly, are the characteristics of Victorian architecture?  Some features include bright colors, steeply pitched roofs, and ornately detailed gables.  You’ll also see wraparound porches and a lot of fancy gingerbread trim .

Victorian houses that are repainted in multiple colors to accent their architectural details are often referred to as ‘painted ladies.’ 

6. See the Totem Poles in Thunderbird Park

As you leave Beacon Hill Park, continue following Douglas Street. This will take you directly to Thunderbird Park .

Thunderbird Park contains many stately totem poles as well as First Nation historic buildings. My favorite of the totem poles is this one, with the gorgeous outstretched wings of the Thunderbird.

Thunderbird Park is an open-air, outdoors collection, so you can see the totem poles for free .

7. Visit the Royal British Columbia Museum

If you’re in the mood to visit a museum during your stay in Victoria, then your best bet is the Royal British Columbia Museum .  This natural history museum features an impressive collection of totem poles both inside the museum in the Totem Hall.  

The Royal BC Museum has an enviable location, on the southwest corner of Belleville Street and Government Street.  To its west is the impressive Legislative Assembly building, and to its north is the stunning Hotel Fairmont Empress.

The second floor of the museum focuses on natural history (think woolly mammoths), with the third floor covering human history from the region’s indigenous peoples to the influx of settlers and how this shaped today’s culture.

Don’t forget about the IMAX Victoria Theater , where you can immerse yourself in experiences spanning from the depths of the oceans to prehistoric dinosaurs.

Museum tickets are quite inexpensive.  Note that access to the IMAX theater needs to be purchased separately from admission to the museum.

8. Listen to the Netherlands Centennial Carillon

Before you leave the grounds of the Royal British Columbia Museum, be sure to look to the north. Here you’ll find the Netherlands Centennial Carillon .

The Netherlands Centennial Carillon was a gift from British Columbia’s Dutch community, given in thanks for Canada’s part in liberating the Netherlands during WWII.

This 62-bell carillon is the largest in Canada. The carillon is reached by climbing a 75-step spiral staircase and a 10-step ladder.

As you walk around Victoria, listen for the bells of the carillon. They play on the hour between 10am and 5pm (October-March) and between 10am and 8pm (April-September).

9. See Christ Church Cathedral

Just a few blocks northeast of the Royal British Columbia Museum is the Christ Church Cathedral .  This Anglican cathedral’s façade is in the Gothic style. 

With its two square towers, pointed archways, and central stained-glass rose window , Christ Church Cathedral reminds me a lot of my favorite cathedral, Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris.

Christ Church Cathedral has a gorgeous triple set of stained-glass windows which resemble outspread wings with vibrant colors and detailed patterns.  It also features an elaborate pipe organ that was actually designed around the rose window.

I was able to climb a set of stairs to get an up-close look at these amazing stained-glass windows. Just be sure to be respectful of the religious space.

10. Admire St. Andrew’s Cathedral

St. Andrew’s Cathedral dates from the 19 th century and is built in the High Victorian Gothic style. The spire of the main tower reaches a height of 175 feet, making the church stand out from the shorter buildings of this neighborhood.

The interior of the cathedral is very bright and airy due to the high arched ceilings.  Sunlight shines in through its many colorful stained-glass windows, including two large rose windows .

11. Check out Victoria’s City Hall

As you approach Chinatown, you’ll see Victoria’s City Hall . Take a quick detour of a half-block to get a closer look.

Victoria’s elegant City Hall building was completed in 1890. It is one of the best remaining examples of the Second Empire architectural style, and it has been designated a National Historic Site.

The Canadian flag proudly flies from the top of City Hall’s clock tower.

12. Visit Canada’s oldest Chinatown

Enter Victoria’s Chinatown through the iconic Gate of Harmonious Interest , located on Fisgard Street. The gate is flanked by two stone lions, which were gifts from Victoria’s sister city of Suzhou. 

Victoria is home to the oldest Chinatown in Canada and the second-oldest in North America (the oldest being in San Francisco).  

As you walk west along Fisgard street approaching the Chinatown gate, stop to take a look at the striking architecture of Victoria’s Chinese Public School.

Chinatown is filled with an amazing variety of restaurants.  You’ll have no problem finding a great place for a meal, but you may have a hard time narrowing down your choices.  Then explore the shops, markets, and boutiques to find the perfect souvenir of your trip to Victoria.

My favorite thing was this whimsical crosswalk as you approach the ornate Chinese gate marking the entrance to Chinatown. How cute is this crosswalk, with the signs of the Chinese Zodiac?

13. Wander through Fan Tan Alley

While you’re in Chinatown, be sure to check out Fan Tan Alley , famed for being the narrowest street in Canada.  

You may recognize it from the movie Bird on a Wire , in which Mel Gibson rides a motorcycle down this narrow alley.

It is named for the Chinese game Fan-Tan, as the area was originally a gambling district—not exactly a safe place to wander!  Today it is a popular tourist destination, so feel free to explore its shops and cafés.

14. Take a whale watching tour from the Inner Harbor

The city of Victoria centers around the inner harbor. From here, you can go for a whale-watching tour (Victoria is one of the best places for whale watching in the world!).

If whales aren’t your thing, you can enjoy harbor tour, or take an unforgettable panoramic seaplane tour . 

The inner harbor has the best panoramic views of Victoria’s most gorgeous buildings.  From here you can see the iconic Empress Hotel, the grand Legislative Assembly, and the stately Steamship Terminal.   

Don’t forget to check out the ‘CANADA’ sign — a picture-perfect view framed by the Legislative Assembly to the left and the columned Steamship Terminal to the right.

15. Enjoy public art and statues

There is a lot of unique public art to be found as you explore Victoria, particularly around the Inner Harbor area near the Destination Greater Victoria Visitor Center.

One of the most popular and touching statues is ‘The Homecoming’, by sculptor Nathan Scott. This shows the special moment of a sailor joyously reuniting with his family.

Just across the street you’ll find ‘The Surfacing’, a living sculpture of an orca surfacing from the waters. The sculpture actually features two orcas, one of them a young one which is hidden behind the larger orca pictured here.

16. See Miniature World

Miniature World bills itself as ‘ The Greatest Little Show on Earth ‘. If you’re a fan of miniaturized displays, you’ll want to make a stop at this museum.

It’s easy to miss this hidden gem, but it’s one of the best Victoria attractions for families.

This whimsical museum contains interactive displays detailing historical events and places, as well as unique features like the World’s Smallest Operating Sawmill.

17. Take Tea at the Hotel Fairmont Empress

The Hotel Fairmont Empress, commonly known as ‘The Empress’, is Victoria’s most iconic hotel (and claims to be one of the 21 most iconic hotels in the world).  It has been honored as a National Historic Site since 1908. 

This hotel looks like it was transported from Europe, with ‘Châteauesque’ elaborate architecture.  The Empress sports a lush green lawn and faces Victoria’s inner harbor, a great location from which to take a photo of this grand hotel.

The Empress is one of the reasons Victoria is one of the best places for a romantic getaway in BC !

Looking for a splurge during your trip to Victoria?   Indulge in afternoon tea at the Empress, an elegant experience featuring sweet and savory goodies. 

Be sure to make a reservation and dress appropriately.  Or, reserve a ‘tea to go’ box and enjoy your tea picnic-style.

18. Stop and smell the roses

Victoria is knows as Canada’s ‘Garden City’ for very good reason. As you’re exploring Victoria, particularly around these main attractions in the zone between the inner harbor and Douglas Street, you can’t help but see all the hanging flower baskets .

On our tour to the Butchart Gardens, our guide told us that there are 12,000 flower baskets in Victoria. They water them with a big tanker truck.

We also learned about Flower Count Week. This occurs in March throughout the Greater Victoria area. In this lighthearted competition, everyone goes out and counts the flowers in their yard, or in a park, and reports that in to a central location.

In 2022, the flower count tallied nearly 28 BILLION flowers ! That is a LOT of flowers.

So, when you’re visiting Victoria, definitely take time to stop and smell the roses — or daisies, or dahlias, or sunflowers..

19. Tour the Legislative Assembly of British Columbia

The Legislative Assembly is a magnificent neo-baroque building with 33 distinctive copper domes.   

A majestic statue of Queen Victoria stands proudly at the front of the grounds.  Pass lush green lawns, a central fountain, and colorful flowerbeds as you approach the stately parliament building.

In the summer months, the parliament buildings are open to the public . 

Take a free guided tour to view the magnificent architecture and to learn about British Columbia’s Legislative Assembly .  Self-guided tours are also available on weekdays. 

Be sure to check out the stained-glass windows and the dome of the Memorial Rotunda.

You can watch the legislature at work from the public galleries – be sure to check the parliamentary calendar to ensure that the legislative assembly will be in session during your visit.   

For a unique experience, dine at the Parliamentary Dining Room (reservations recommended).

20. Check out the Steamship Terminal

As you head west along Belleville Street, you’ll find the curious columned building of the Canadian Pacific Railway Steamship Terminal facing the harbor. 

This unique architecture, in the neo-classical style of a Greek temple, certainly seems a bit out of place amongst the rest of Victoria’s architectural styles.  (Surprisingly, the same architect designed the Empress, the Legislative Assembly, and the Steamship Terminal!)

The Steamship Terminal was built in 1926 and was the arrival point for passengers traveling to Victoria by steamship.  After the era of the steamship had passed, the building was converted into a Madame Tussaud’s Wax Museum. 

Nowadays, the Steamship Terminal has been repurposed once again and is home to the Bateman art gallery as well as a restaurant.  Ferries from Seattle and Port Angeles dock at the nearby Ferry Ramp, with passengers getting their first glimpse of Victoria here.

21. Explore Fisherman’s Wharf

Continue following the roads skirting the edge of the peninsula, and you’ll find Fisherman’s Wharf .  This series of floating piers is home to colorful tiny houses and food kiosks.   

The marina is also filled with pleasure craft, fishing charters, and whale-watching boats.   Join a kayak tour and view Victoria from a different perspective – and maybe make some marine friends with harbor seals or river otters.

At Fisherman’s Wharf, you can catch a water taxi to take you to various waterfront locations.  This will save some wear and tear on your feet if you want to cover more ground on your walking tour of Victoria.

Hungry?  Grab a bite to eat from one of the floating food court vendors, then relax at the adjacent Fisherman’s Wharf Park.

Staying for the weekend?  Here are more great things to do in Victoria:

If you’re staying in Victoria for the weekend or a few days, then you will be able to spend a lot more time exploring all of the great things to do in Victoria. 

Some attractions, such as Craigdarroch Castle, are still within the city but just a bit further from the harbor area we explored with the cruise port walk.  If you want to visit Hatley Castle, that is located just a short drive outside the city.

And, if you love exploring the great outdoors, there are plenty of great hikes near Victoria to enjoy!

22. Explore Hatley Castle

While you’re driving around the greater Victoria area, you should plan to visit Hatley Castle .  Hatley Castle is about a half hour’s drive from Butchart Gardens, or about a twenty-minute drive westward from Victoria.

Hatley Castle is a gorgeous mansion dating from 1908, when it was the opulent residence of coal magnate James Dunsmuir. 

In 1940 the estate was purchased by the Department of National Defense.  For fifteen years, this magnificent estate was used as a dormitory for the Royal Roads Military University.  (My dorm certainly didn’t look like this!)

The grounds of the estate are vast with three formal gardens : smell the blooms of the Rose Garden, view the pleasing symmetry of the Italian Garden, and enjoy the tranquility of the Japanese Garden.

Cinema fans might recognize Hatley Castle from appearances in several movies including the X-Men films (as Professor Xavier’s School for Gifted Youngsters).   Hatley Castle also serves as the estate of Lex Luthor in the TV series Smallville.

You can take a guided tour of the estate which includes access to the first floor of the castle as well as the gardens.  You may also explore the gardens and estate grounds on your own.

23. Visit Craigdarroch Castle

While we’re on the topic of castles, within the city of Victoria lies another famous one — Craigdarroch Castle .  Craigdarroch Castle was also built by the Dunsmuir family, in this case by the patriarch, Robert Dunsmuir. 

Craigdarroch Castle is a Scottish Baronial mansion which was built in the late 1800’s during the Victorian era.  It looks like something straight out of a fairytale and styles itself as ‘ Canada’s Castle ’.

Craigdarroch Castle is a ‘ bonanza castle ’ – a fancy mansion built by industrialists who made their fortunes in the industrial age (coal, in the case of the Dunsmuirs).

 No cost was spared in the building of this castle, as evidenced in its elaborate woodworking and intricate stained-glass windows.

Taking a self-guided tour of this castle is like taking a step back in time, as it is outfitted with period décor and furnishings.  Craigdarroch Castle is open for tours on Wednesday-Sunday.

It’s one of the most interesting places to visit in Victoria Canada !

Victoria Canada Map of Top Attractions

You can also download a printable version of my Victoria attractions map (made by my husband Chris!):

Well, that does it for this visit!  You can see there are plenty of great things to do in Victoria, BC , whether you’re visiting for a few hours, or for a few days.  I hope you’ve found a few reasons to add a trip to Victoria to your travel destination bucket list!

Planning on taking a trip to Victoria? You won’t want to miss out on any of these great attractions. Pin this for later!

You might also enjoy these posts about my favorite places to travel in Canada:

• Best Food Tours in Montreal
• Montreal Botanical Garden Highlights
• Best Tours in Ottawa
• Best Things to Do in Ottawa
• Montreal vs Toronto: Which is the Best City to Visit?

You might also enjoy these posts about my favorite Alaska cruise ports:

• 9 Best Alaska Cruise Ports: Discover Nature’s Beauty
• Best Things to Do in Ketchikan on a Cruise
• Best Things to Do in Seattle in One Day

Lisa Garrett

Lisa Garrett is the founder of Waves and Cobblestones. She has taken 18 cruises ranging from a multi-generational Caribbean cruise to solo Alaska cruises to fabulous Mediterranean cruises.

She lived in Ireland for 4 months and has taken over a half-dozen multi-city vacations in Europe (primarily relying on train and public transit). Lisa helps people plan amazing vacations to Europe and popular cruise destinations.

Learn more about Lisa !

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12 Erie St - Fisherman's Wharf Victoria, BC

7 Things to Do in Victoria As Soon as You Step Off the Cruise Ship

Consider this victoria, b.c.’s highlight reel.

by Daphne Dilworth

For any first-time visitors cruising into Victoria’s harbour for a short stay, there are going to be ample options for enjoying the natural beauty and city attractions in British Columbia’s coastal capital—the trick is narrowing that list down to the absolute essential musts. The ideal visit is going to touch on what Victoria does best (the city gardens, the whale watching!) and so here is our list of seven things every cruise ship visitor should do with their precious time in Victoria.

Image courtesy Fairmont Empress

High tea, which is early afternoon tea served with finger sandwiches and dainty petit fours, is a quaint tradition that speaks directly to Victoria’s roots as a British settlement. Victoria was indeed named after Queen Victoria herself, and there couldn’t be anything more peak Victoria than having a British high tea service at the waterfront Fairmont Empress Hotel. The iconic hotel property dates back to 1908 and is just steps away from the harbour docks. Tea-lovers rejoice, as there are no fewer than 21 loose leaf teas on offer (ranging from local terroirs like Bella Coola organic to the exotic Safari Masala Chai). As for the snacks, the locally crafted menu changes daily and features scrumptious bites like pear cider-poached chicken on brioche and Meyer lemon tarts.

https://www.fairmont.com/empress-victoria/dining/tea-at-the-empress/

Pedaler Bike Tour

Image courtesy The Pedaler

One of the best ways to explore a new city is by bike, and Victoria is one of the most bike-friendly cities in Canada. There are main bike lanes that run straight through the downtown core and you can cycle around the city without ever taking your eyes off the ocean view. Local bike operator Pedaler offers guided and self-guided tours that take you through Victoria’s unique neighbourhoods and trails, and they have a bunch of different options based on what interests you most. Foodie and craft beer tours let you stop and sample everything from small-batch artisan ice cream to the best IPAs local breweries have to offer. There are historic tours that take you to castles and scenic tours that visit Victoria’s most stunning beaches. Plus there are plenty of options for families with kids of all ages, and electric-assist bikes for anyone looking to take a more leisurely cruise.

http://thepedaler.ca/bike-tours/

Butchart Gardens

Image courtesy Butchart Gardens

Butchart Gardens is as celebrated and essential to Victorians as Central Park is to New Yorkers. This isn’t your grandmother’s garden, it is a sweeping, 55 acres of blooming roses, bushes and trees that houses 900 varieties of bedding plants and is tended by 50 full-time gardeners. More than one million visitors come to see Butchart’s rotating colour palettes of legendary blooms every year and each season brings something new. You can wander freely throughout the grounds, but make sure you stop by the Sunken Garden (for the iconic Butchart Instagram shot), the Ross Fountain, Rose Garden, Japanese Garden, Star Pond, Carousel Ride and don’t forget the Seed and Gift store for green-thumb keepsakes on your way out.

https://www.butchartgardens.com/

Abkhazi Gardens

Dennis Robinson for Abkhazi Gardens

Butchart may be the biggest garden attraction in Victoria, but Abkhazi is a local gem all its own. Instead of elaborately choreographed flower gardens, Abkhazi is more ‘au naturel’ and at the centre of an epic love story. Chinese Prince and Princess Abkhazi settled in Victoria after both serving in war camps overseas. Here they married and started their garden on a one-acre property that they worked on their whole lives together. Inside the garden itself, is a chance to see the true natural landscape of Victoria, too. Towering Garry oaks and natural bulbs sprout alongside a rugged landscape of glaciated step rocks that are quintessential Victoria. After the Abkhazis passed away (and had their ashes scattered in the garden) a local Land Conservancy stepped in to save the garden from becoming townhouses—it’s a special piece of local history.

http://blog.conservancy.bc.ca/properties/vancouver-island-region/abkhazi-garden/

The Royal BC Museum

Image courtesy Royal BC Museum

As one of Canada’s leading museums and research centres, the Royal BC Museum is the place to go for a snapshot of local history (just 550 million years or so). The museum has an extensive collection of First Nations photographs, films, recordings and objects from across the province that dates back 10,000 years, and houses a permanent collection of First Peoples galleries. Maya, the Great Jaguar Rises , is the latest large-scale exhibition coming to the museum and will showcase the rise, the genius and the resilience of Central America’s Mayan peoples throughout the ages (runs May 17 to Dec. 21, 2019). The Royal BC Museum also has an in-house Imax theatre, which is the perfect educational cinematic experience for beating the heat on hot summer days.

https://royalbcmuseum.bc.ca

Fisherman’s Wharf

Image by Mark Imhoff

There’s a secret little waterfront village on the southern edge of the harbour that most visitors would totally miss. Walking south from Victoria’s Inner Harbour (and just 10 min away from the cruise ship terminal) you’ll find Fisherman’s Wharf, a small collection of floating waterfront food kiosks, shops and eco-tour adventure outfitters that sit right in the middle of locals’ sailboats, float homes and pontoon pleasure-cruisers. Take the whole family for a leisurely stroll to check out this unique floating ‘hood and sample fresh-from-the-ocean fish and chips, and ice cream on this dock village (where you might just spot a seal or river otter or two).  

https://gvha.ca/marinas-facilities/fishermans-wharf/

Eagle Wing Whale and Wildlife Watching Tour

Brendon Bissonnette for Eagle Wing Tours

Want to get up close and personal with the most magnificent creatures of the Salish Sea?  Eagle Wing’s 3.5 hour Salish Sea adventure takes you on a voyage of discovery through the Juan de Fuca Strait and the San Juan Islands to experience some of the West Coast’s most spectacular wildlife, whales (orca, humpback, grey, minke) and scenery.  The safe, high-performance, luxury boats provide you with a superior level of comfort to enjoy every moment of your adventure.   Some say y ou come as a tourist but return with a deeper understanding and passion for this incredible ecosystem.

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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.

More on Canada

10 Awesome Things To Do In Victoria, British Columbia

L ocated in British Columbia, on the southernmost point of Vancouver Island, Victoria offers an incredible blend of a rich past, breathtaking scenery, and a thriving metropolitan culture. It is well known for its lovely waterfront, Victorian architecture, and a wide range of fun activities that tourists can enjoy year-round.

Victoria provides a variety of experiences that will attract visitors, whether they are nature enthusiasts, history lovers, or art and culture enthusiasts. Here are the awesome things to do in Victoria, British Columbia.

Related: British Columbia Complete Travel Guide - Things To Do, Activities & Food

Explore The Royal BC Museum

The Royal BC Museum is one of Canada's best museums and top tourist destinations. Dating back to 1886, this museum collects artifacts, specimens, and documents of the human and natural history of Canada's British Columbia for the purpose of preserving them for future reference and sharing them with the public.

The museum's exhibits allow tourists to see the authentic, original records of BC's rich history and culture. Some of the exhibitions to catch include BC Archives on Display, Natural History Gallery, Dinosaurs of BC, and Scared Journey: Traveling Exhibit. This is a must-visit attraction for history lovers.

• Cost of entrance : $18 for adults, $11 for seniors, students (19+), and youth (6-18). It is free for kids (3-5).

Visit Mystic Beach

Nestled along the spectacular shores of the Strait of Juan de Fuca, Mystic Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in British Columbia to visit in the summer . The beach is about a 30-minute walk from the parking lot along a trail through the trees.

One of the most beautiful features of this beach is a small stunning waterfall cascading from the rocky cliff. Vacationers will also enjoy spectacular views of the Pacific Northwest coastline. Mystic Beach is one of the best places for visitors looking for relaxation in a secluded spot.

Related: Olympic Peninsula Or Vancouver Island: Which Has More To Offer Travelers?

Go Whale Watching

Victoria is one of the best places in Canada to go whale watching. Taking whale-watching tours in this city guarantees an experience that travelers are going to cherish forever.

Humpback whales and the orca are two of the most common whales that vacationers will find in Victoria. One can enjoy whale watching at any time of the year, but May through November is the best time for a perfect experience.

• Want to know everything to do on Vancouver Island on a weekend getaway ? Whale watching in Victoria should definitely top the bucket list!

Visit Rodd Hill National Historic Site

Dating back to the 19th century, Fort Rodd National Historic Site is an awesome hidden vacation spot for families . It is on the Esquimalt Habour, near the bustling city of Victoria. Exploring the gun batteries and artillery emplacements is a lot of fun for both kids and adults.

• The fort was initially constructed in the late 1890s as coast artillery to protect Victoria and the surrounding Esquimalt Naval Base from attacks by Russia.

History buffs will definitely enjoy taking audio tours that give an insight into the major historical events from the 1800s. Enjoy listening to the interesting tales of spies and soldiers who fought major wars in Canada.

Swim At Willows Beach

Willows Beach is one of the most impressive beaches for swimming in Victoria, and the fact that it features shallow and protected spots makes it a perfect option for families with children. Families looking to hold gatherings and some barbecues.

Even at the height of summer, the water temperatures remain cool. Wondering why summer is the best time to visit British Columbia? Willows Beach is one of the top reasons, as it’s brimming with fun activities, such as skimboarding and beach volleyball.

Being a favorite among locals and travelers alike, one can expect crowds, especially during weekends and holidays.

Spend Some Time At Chinatown, The Oldest In Canada

Looking for awesome things to do in Victoria, British Columbia? Its Chinatown, the oldest in Canada and North America's second oldest, is definitely a must-visit. The area is incredibly popular with tourists, who explore Fisgard Street, Fan Tan Alley, and the beautiful historic buildings.

Travelers can also see the Old Chinese School, theaters, delicious restaurants, and multiple shopping areas. Chinatown is one of the most striking features of downtown Victoria and is well worth visiting.

Stop by Kid Sister Ice Cream , and have some of the most delicious homemade ice creams.

Eat And Watch Sea Life At Fisherman’s Wharf

Fisherman's Wharf is one of the most striking tourist attractions in Victoria that boasts numerous beautiful colors on display. Vacationers will find multiple uniquely adorned floating homes and eateries. This facility is extremely awesome, and there are so many different colors on show.

Another attractive thing to catch at Fisherman’s Wharf is the local seals that sometimes swim to the pier to watch as travelers stroll through the place.

Don’t leave without trying some of the most delicious foods sold at the food kiosks that were once the floating homes at the Wharf.

Stroll Along Beacon Hill Park

Beacon Hill Park is one of the loveliest parks to explore in Victoria, BC. It is home to incredible trails that winds through some of the most magnificent gardens, lush forests, ponds, and farms.

The park has everything families need for a memorable family adventure, including sports fields and a kids' park, where children can spend happy and fun moments with other young ones.

• Some of the must-stops in Beacon Hill Park are Moss Lady, the Stone Bridge, and the Petting Zoo.

Take A Walking Food Tour

Taking walking food tours is one of the best things visitors can do, as it allows them to enjoy some of the best Canadian foods , including chocolate, meatballs, and pierogies. The tours also allow vacationers to have a taste of some of the best wines in Canada in Victoria's wineries and breweries.

By going on these tours, vacationers experience some of the city's award-winning restaurants, bakeries, and specialty gourmet shops, while passing by some of the most iconic landmarks. Many food-tasting tours pass through the Old Town, historic buildings in Chinatown, and the Inner Harbor.

Related: Beautiful British Columbia: 10 Pretty Towns To See On Canada's West Coast

Take A Day Trip To Butchart Gardens

Located only a short drive from Victoria, Butchart Gardens is one of the busiest tourist destinations on Vancouver Island. The gardens stretch over 55 acres of space and are divided into five distinct kinds.

It is also home to millions of bedding plants, available in more than 900 species. Without a doubt, visiting Victoria's Butchart Gardens should be on the tourist’s bucket list of things to do.

It's easy to spend hours wandering through all the various gardens, thanks to the beautiful colors and various scents of the plants.

• Summer event to catch : Saturday night fireworks show, running from June 30 through September 1

Though Butchart Gardens isn't exactly in Victoria, it's one of the best things to do in the greater Victoria area.

2-Day Victoria Itinerary

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• Victoria in 2 days
• 1-Day Victoria Itinerary
• 3-Day Victoria Itinerary
• 4-Day Victoria Itinerary
• 5-Day Victoria Itinerary

Table of contents

Day 1: most popular attractions, day 2: south side of town, royal bc museum.

Fairmont Empress

Bay Centre Shopping Centre

Miniature world, beacon hill park, where to eat, tea at the empress, pagliacci's, the courtney room.

Track your travel spending and split costs with friends

Plan your trip. Keep your budget organized. Split the cost between tripmates. Wanderlog does it all.

Fisherman's Wharf Park

Beacon hill children's farm, clover point park, victoria bug zoo, victoria public market at the hudson, victoria’s chinatown national historic site, mayfair shopping centre, 10 acres bistro, brasserie l'ecole, barb's fish & chips.

Don’t forget to pack anything

Stay organized with a to-do list, packing list, shopping list, any kind of list.

Top searches in Victoria

Popular road trips from victoria, what's the weather like in victoria.

It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA on what the weather is like in Victoria for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.

• Weather in Victoria in January
• Weather in Victoria in February
• Weather in Victoria in March
• Weather in Victoria in April
• Weather in Victoria in May
• Weather in Victoria in June
• Weather in Victoria in July
• Weather in Victoria in August
• Weather in Victoria in September
• Weather in Victoria in October
• Weather in Victoria in November
• Weather in Victoria in December

All road trips from Victoria

• Victoria to Seattle drive
• Victoria to Vancouver drive
• Victoria to San Francisco drive
• Victoria to Las Vegas drive
• Victoria to Los Angeles drive
• Victoria to Portland drive
• Victoria to San Diego drive
• Victoria to Banff National Park drive
• Victoria to Whistler drive
• Victoria to Olympic National Park drive
• Victoria to Banff drive
• Victoria to Calgary drive
• Victoria to North Vancouver drive
• Victoria to Yellowstone National Park drive
• Victoria to Tofino drive
• Victoria to Jasper drive
• Victoria to Astoria drive
• Victoria to Jasper National Park drive
• Victoria to Denver drive
• Victoria to Squamish drive
• Victoria to Monterey drive
• Victoria to Bellingham drive
• Victoria to Sedona drive
• Victoria to Yosemite National Park drive
• Victoria to Kelowna drive
• Victoria to Colorado Springs drive
• Victoria to Newport drive
• Victoria to Grand Canyon National Park drive
• Victoria to Nanaimo drive
• Victoria to Greater Palm Springs drive

Explore nearby places

• Central Saanich
• North Saanich
• Roche Harbor
• Friday Harbor
• Shawnigan Lake
• Port Angeles
• Cobble Hill
• Deer Harbor
• Bedwell Harbour
• Fulford Harbour
• Cowichan Bay
• Sturdies Bay

All related maps of Victoria

• Map of Victoria
• Map of Esquimalt
• Map of Saanich
• Map of View Royal
• Map of Colwood
• Map of Langford
• Map of Metchosin
• Map of Highlands
• Map of Central Saanich
• Map of Saanichton
• Map of Malahat
• Map of North Saanich
• Map of Sidney
• Map of Roche Harbor
• Map of Friday Harbor
• Map of Sooke
• Map of Mill Bay
• Map of Shawnigan Lake
• Map of Port Angeles
• Map of Cobble Hill
• Map of Deer Harbor
• Map of Orcas
• Map of Bedwell Harbour
• Map of Fulford Harbour
• Map of Cowichan Bay
• Map of Joyce
• Map of Sequim
• Map of Eastsound
• Map of Duncan
• Map of Ganges
• Map of Sturdies Bay

Victoria throughout the year

• Victoria in January
• Victoria in February
• Victoria in March
• Victoria in April
• Victoria in May
• Victoria in June
• Victoria in July
• Victoria in August
• Victoria in September
• Victoria in October
• Victoria in November
• Victoria in December

Looking for other day-by-day itineraries in Victoria?

Check out our other curated itineraries that are also filled with jam-packed days:

Day itineraries for nearby cities

• 2-Day Sooke Itinerary
• 2-Day Friday Harbor Itinerary
• 2-Day Sequim Itinerary
• 2-Day Eastsound Itinerary
• 2-Day Duncan Itinerary
• 2-Day Sidney Itinerary
• 2-Day Langford Itinerary
• 2-Day Cowichan Bay Itinerary
• 2-Day Central Saanich Itinerary
• 2-Day Colwood Itinerary

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• Earth Science

‘Severe’ geomagnetic storm may spark auroras over Canada Sunday night

Forecasters see the potential for auroras to fill the night sky over Canada late Sunday—but clouds might obscure the show for many across the country

A geomagnetic storm washing over Earth could spark a vivid display of auroras in the skies over Canada late Sunday night.

Forecasters with NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center (SWPC) announced on Sunday that a G4 ‘severe’ geomagnetic storm arrived as the weekend drew to a close.

While the peak of the storm is expected to produce the best show over parts of Asia and Europe, the latest forecasts call for solid odds of photogenic auroras for sections of Canada expecting clear skies Sunday night.

DON'T MISS: Everything you need to know for April's spectacular and rare solar eclipse

Sunday’s aurora potential arrives courtesy of a powerful coronal mass ejection (CME), a release of plasma and magnetic field from the Sun’s exceptionally hot outer atmosphere.

A CME hitting Earth allows charged particles to seep into the upper atmosphere around the magnetic north pole, ionizing gasses like oxygen and nitrogen in a striking display of colours that wiggle across the night sky.

This weekend’s geomagnetic storm was powerful enough to register as a ‘severe’ G4 on the G-scale, which scientists use to measure the intensity of a geomagnetic storm. The scale ranges from from G1 (minor) on the low end to G5 (extreme) on the high end.

Sunday night’s activity is expected to approach a Kp 7 after sunset across much of Canada, which is near the high end of the Kp scale used to measure the disruption to Earth’s magnetic field.

Forecasters expect the potential for auroras to continue through much of the night over Canada.

MUST SEE: The next few years could be the opportunity of a lifetime to witness auroras

This could make auroras visible across most of the country away from light pollution, with the potential for spectacular colours over parts of interior B.C., the Prairies, and northern sections of Ontario and Quebec.

Some areas may have to contend with thick clouds, especially as a sprawling storm begins pushing into the eastern Prairies and Great Lakes region. Low clouds are also likely across coastal B.C. and portions of the Alberta foothills. Cities where clouds may obscure the sky include Toronto , Winnipeg, and Calgary .

The best opportunity to see the aurora will likely exist across portions of interior B.C., the northern and central Prairies, and sections of northern Ontario.

Skies could clear out enough in eastern Ontario for folks away from the lights of Ottawa to see a bit of colour. Good viewing will be possible for much of southern and eastern Quebec, as well as much of Labrador.

Let us know if you spot the aurora! Tag @weathernetwork on X (Twitter) and Instagram , use #ShareYourWeather, or submit your best weather images to our photo gallery to share your wonderful skies with the world.

WATCH: How to capture the beauty of the auroras

Money blog: Burger chain hailed as 'consistently great' by two Michelin starred chef

National Price Hike Day is on Monday, with water bills, broadband, council tax and the TV licence among the things going up. Read this and more in the Money blog - your place for consumer and personal finance news. And you can listen to the latest Ian King Business Podcast as you scroll.

Wednesday 27 March 2024 20:00, UK

• Eight things that are going up in price next week - and six major boosts to Britons' pockets
• Two Michelin starred chef picks popular high street chain among best cheap eats
• New £5,000 deposit mortgage launched - here's what you should know
• In other news : New direct flights from Manchester | Boss of British Gas owner sees pay double
• Free childcare about to be extended - here's all the support on offer to parents of young children
• ISA deadline approaching - here's what you need to know
• Tap here to follow the Ian King Business Podcast wherever you get your podcasts

Spills of raw sewage into England's rivers and seas reached their worst on record last year.

Discharges of untreated sewage by water companies doubled from 1.8 million hours in 2022 to a record 3.6 million, according to new Environment Agency data.

The number of individual spills also soared by 54% - from 301,000 incidents to 464,000.

Read more here ...

Insurance companies have been told they must offer full value to settle claims relating to written-off and stolen cars after further "shortcomings" were found by an industry regulator.

A review by the Financial Conduct Authority found that some firms were offering customers less than their vehicle was worth and, in some cases, only increased the offer when a customer complained.

The competition regulator has urged UK fashion businesses to give accurate information about how environmentally friendly their clothes are after three fast-fashion firms signed a new agreement.

The Competition and Markets Authority initiated an investigation into Boohoo, ASOS and George by Asda over concerns about the way products were marketed as eco-friendly.

Its initial review of the fashion sector identified concerns of possible greenwashing - making items appear environmentally friendly when they are not.

But the firms have pledged to provide clear, prominent and transparent information about any environmental claims made.

A multibillion-pound electricity cable running from Scotland to England that will power two million homes has been given the green light.

The high-voltage "electricity superhighway" will connect Peterhead in Aberdeenshire to Drax in North Yorkshire when it is completed in 2029 at a cost of £3.4bn.

It will carry clean energy 500km from Scottish wind farms, allowing them to operate at a greater capacity.

Some wind farms that could be producing energy have to shut down because there is not enough grid capacity to carry their power to places where it could be used.

Because of the way their contracts work, they are paid when asked to shut down due to what could be described as congestion.

So far this month nearly £50m has been paid to farms for shutting down, according to the UK Wind Curtailment Monitor.

The two gigawatt cable, approved today by Ofgem, the energy regulator, will run mainly on the bottom of the North Sea, but around 70 kilometres of it will be buried underground.

A new route from Manchester Airport to Luxembourg Airport will be available from 1 April.

Luxair is slated to provide three flights a week on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.

The journey, which takes a little under two hours, is the latest in a string of additions to Manchester's timetable.

Easyjet will launch flights to Paris Orly Airport on 27 March, while Jet2 has promised to get travellers to Porto from 4 July to 3 November.

The boss of British Gas owner Centrica saw his pay nearly double  to £8.2m in 2023, accounts show. 

Chris O'Shea said previously his pay of £4.5m in 2022 was impossible to justify.

Mr O'Shea, who has led the firm since 2020, earned a £810,000 salary, around £1.4million in annual bonuses and £5.9million in longer-term bonuses.

"As Mr O'Shea himself admitted a few weeks ago, it's not really credible to argue the work that he does is at all proportionate to a pay award even half this size," Luke Hildyard, of thinktank the High Pay Centre, said. 

Anyone worried about what artificial intelligence (AI) means for the future of the workplace woke up to some bad news this morning...

Up to eight million UK jobs are at risk from the rise of AI , according to a report warning that the low-skilled would be worst affected.

It said that back office, entry level and part-time jobs were at the highest risk of being disrupted during the so-called first wave, with women and young people the most likely to be affected as a result.

Read the full story  here ...

A comedian has been forced to remove a picture of a hot dog from posters promoting his stand-up tour after falling foul of Transport for London's (TfL) advertising policies.

Ed Gamble used an image of the popular barbecue staple in advertising posters for his upcoming Hot Diggity Dog tour.

But when the billboards were sent to TfL for display on the  London Underground , the stand-up comic was told to alter the poster because it failed to comply with the organisation's advertising policy on junk foods.

So the 38-year-old, who recently starred as the host of the Traitors: Uncloaked, improvised by offering to replace the hot dog with a cucumber.

"I actually don't have a problem with the TfL regulations, they make sense to me," he said.

"But the new posters promote something way more harmful - the idea that cucumbers pair well with ketchup and mustard."

A disgruntled rail passenger has gone viral after pointing out that it would be cheaper for him to get a return flight to another continent than going by train from London to Scotland. 

Chris Thomson shared screenshots showing rail prices over £100 for London Euston to Motherwell on Trainline, while flights to Essaouira in Morocco began at £54 on Skyscanner. 

His post on X has had more than 12,000 likes.  

The response to Chris's post has been mixed, with some agreeing that the prices are "wild"...

Train ticket prices are wild. Tried to get from Glasgow to Birmingham and back, they wanted 350 quid. Just booked a bus for 25 quid instead. @RussleSprout88

Others suggested it was Chris at fault for trying to book last-minute...

Yet I'm currently travelling to Glasgow from Crewe for £29. Maybe because I didn't look for the most expensive, flexible, late notice rail fares and compare them to cheap, inflexible, advance air fares. @MggW

Rail fares will rise by 8.7% in Scotland next week, after the Scottish government argued previous fare freezes were not sustainable. 

For those in England and Wales, fares rose by 4.9% on 3 March. 

When an email landed in our Money team inbox this morning about the calorie count of Easter eggs, our instinct was to roll our eyes, click delete and make a round of coffees to wash down the Mini-Eggs we just had for breakfast.

But with an NHS doctor today getting stick for urging people not to eat an Easter egg in one go (see 9.11am post), we reluctantly decided to take a second look.

Sports nutrition provider Bulk.com has swept the supermarket shelves to find the lowest calorie chocolate egg.

They found the Moo Free Bunnycomb Easter egg was the least calorific - coming in at 454 calories for the whole thing. 

Not far behind was the Kinder Surprise egg at 579 calories in total.

If you check out the other end of the scale - a KitKat Caramel Cookie Collision Incredible Egg was found to be the most calorific supermarket Easter egg at 2,691 calories.

Here are the other options with price tags included...

Some advice

"It's important to keep in mind that overindulging in chocolate over the Easter period is unlikely to completely ruin any weight loss goals you may have," a Bulk spokesperson said. 

“Weight gain tends to happen over a much longer window of time, so even if you are eating over your body's daily caloric intake for several days, you are unlikely to observe any noticeable fat gain.

"However, if you still intend to be mindful of your chocolate consumption this Easter, consider buying several smaller Easter eggs rather than one large one. 

"This way, you can eat the whole Easter egg in one sitting, without feeling as guilty, while still satisfying your sugar cravings."

Remember...

Calories are a way of measuring energy and shouldn't be directly equated to how "healthy" a certain food may or may not be. You should also take fats, sugars and additives into account if looking for the healthiest options. Many of us in the UK consume too many or too few calories than is optimally "healthy", so carry out your own research to find what works for you. 

For context, the average woman should consume around 2,000 calories per day, while the typical man should be looking for closer to 2,500.

We've been banging on about Monday's energy price cap change for some time - and for good reason. 

The average household bill will drop by £238 a year due to the changes, but some might not get full savings in their April bill unless they take crucial steps. 

That involves taking and submitting meter readings by Monday. 

(If you have a pre-paid or smart meter, stop reading - you can kick your feet up and relax.) 

Why do I need to read my meter?

Energy companies can bill you based on usage estimates. Anyone who has received an outlandish bill before knows these estimates can be inaccurate.

So, taking a reading on or around 1 April ensures any estimates are taken with the correct, lower price cap from that date.

A small note

With so many of us doing the same thing and submitting readings via sites or apps - servers can often crash. 

Don't worry if that happens, as you can backdate meter readings anywhere from five days to two weeks later (check with your provider for details). 

By  Sarah Taaffe-Maguire , business reporter

Some small bit of good news for drivers this morning as the oil price ticked down. 

People can expect to see the cost of filling up the tank being a bit cheaper in about 10 days' time as the price of crude oil trickles down to the pumps. 

A barrel of Brent crude oil - the benchmark for pricing - costs $85.37, down from $87 yesterday morning. 

The FTSE 100 moved further away from a new high this morning. There had been hopes last week a new record value would be reached. 

The best performing company in the index is one most readers are unlikely to have heard of. Diploma's share price was up 11% to the highest ever level after the products and service distributor said it is to acquire aerospace provider Peerless Aerospace Fastener for £236m.

On the currency markets £1 can buy $1.2634 and equals €1.1657. 

Barclays has apologised after customers experienced difficulties with payments into and out of accounts, as well as with its app, telephone and online banking services.

The problems began last night and continued into this morning before the bank said, just before 6am, everything was working as it should.

But customers responded to the post on X with complaints of wrong balances and missing transactions.

While balances were showing as reduced or increased there was no transaction into or from the account visible for some customers. Recent transactions weren't showing at all for an X user who posted just before 8am.

Initial problems with the  Barclays  app and online banking were said to be fixed late on Tuesday evening but issues with payments into and out of accounts and telephone banking were persisting.

Barclays has not said what the cause of the technical difficulty was.

All problems were fixed overnight, the lender said... "We're sorry for any issues you faced.

"We really appreciate your patience while we got things back up and running."

There are more than 20 million Barclays customers in the UK.

An NHS doctor is urging people not to eat a whole Easter egg in one go - leading to a backlash on social media.

Tooth decay, obesity and Type 2 diabetes are all increasing, Dr Andrew Kelso warned as he called for moderation.

But one person replying on social media said they would "eat two now" while someone else wrote: "You're not my mum."

A third said "Easter finally has a grinch", while a fourth asked for "more specific instructions", wondering whether a Cadbury Creme Egg was included.

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