Things to do in Victoria, British Columbia

Hey there, travel lovers! Looking for a charming city with a British twist, gorgeous scenery, and yummy eats? Then Victoria, BC, on Vancouver Island is calling your name!

This place is like a storybook come to life, with colorful buildings lining the harbor, beautiful gardens bursting with flowers, and a rich history waiting to be explored. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or someone who appreciates good food (guilty as charged!), Victoria has something for everyone.

History Buffs, Get Ready to Time Travel!

Royal BC Museum: This awesome museum is like a time machine, taking you back to when dinosaurs roamed and pirates sailed the seas (well, maybe not pirates, but you get the idea). Learn all about British Columbia’s cool First Nations cultures, how things used to be way back when, and see tons of neat artifacts.
Parliament Buildings: Feeling fancy? Check out the impressive Parliament Buildings! Take a tour to see where important decisions are made, admire the fancy architecture, and snap some pics with this grand building as your backdrop.
Butchart Gardens: This place is a must-see! Imagine walking through giant gardens overflowing with colorful flowers. It’s like something out of a dream. Explore different themed gardens, relax by peaceful ponds, and see how amazing landscaping can be.

Calling All Nature Lovers!

Inner Harbour: Victoria’s Inner Harbour is the place to be for waterfront fun. Walk along the water, check out the cool houseboats that people actually live in, and maybe even hop on a boat tour to see whales and other sea creatures up close! Don’t forget to visit Fisherman’s Wharf, where you can grab some fresh seafood and check out local crafts.
Beacon Hill Park: Need a break from the city noise? Head to Beacon Hill Park! Hike or bike on scenic trails, take in gorgeous views of the city and ocean, and maybe even spot some playful seals hanging out on the rocks. There’s also a cute Children’s Farm where you can meet some friendly animals.
Kayaking or Paddleboarding: Feeling adventurous? Rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore Victoria’s coastline from a different perspective. Glide past pretty bays, weave through marinas, and see all sorts of cool marine life in their natural habitat.

Foodies, This is Your Happy Place!

Victoria Public Market: Treat your senses to a feast at the lively Victoria Public Market. Sample fresh local produce, try delicious foods from all over the world, and grab some yummy pastries to satisfy your sweet tooth. Chat with friendly vendors, learn about local specialties, and maybe even find some unique souvenirs to take home.
Afternoon Tea at the Empress: Want to feel like royalty? Experience a Victoria tradition – afternoon tea at the Fairmont Empress Hotel. Dress up a bit (or not, it’s your vacation!) and enjoy fancy finger sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and jam, and a selection of delicious teas.
Endless Eats: Victoria is a foodie paradise! Explore award-winning restaurants using fresh, local ingredients, discover hidden cafes with exciting menus from around the world, and indulge in fresh seafood caught right off the coast.

Bonus Adventures Beyond the City:

Cycle the Galloping Goose Trail: Feeling energetic? Rent a bike and explore the Galloping Goose Trail, an old railway path turned into a scenic cycling route with stunning views. Choose a distance that suits you and enjoy a leisurely ride through beautiful nature.
Whale Watching Tour: Victoria is famous for whale watching! Take a boat tour and see majestic orcas, humpback whales, and other amazing creatures in their natural habitat. Remember, responsible whale watching is key to keeping these giants happy and healthy.
Day Trip to Salt Spring Island: Feeling islandy? Hop on a ferry to Salt Spring Island, a haven for artists, craftspeople, and nature lovers. Explore galleries, find unique souvenirs, hike scenic trails, and savor delicious food made with fresh local ingredients.

Planning Your Victoria Escape:

Getting to Victoria is a breeze – you can take a ferry from Vancouver or Seattle, fly into Victoria International Airport, or drive in via the Malahat Highway. There are all sorts of places to stay, from cozy B&Bs to fancy resorts, so you can find something that fits your style and budget. Remember, Canada uses the Canadian Dollar (CAD). Spring and fall offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds, while summer is peak season with warm weather and lots of festivals.

Victoria Awaits!

No matter what kind of traveler you are, Victoria has something to offer. This charming city will leave you with unforgettable memories. Use this guide to plan your trip and discover the magic of Victoria