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Victoria Festivals and Events Calendar

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

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

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

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

Festivals and Events

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

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

January Festivals & Events

• New Year’s Day (statutory holiday) – January 1st, 2025.
• Chinese New Year – January 29th, 2025, is the beginning of the year of the Snake.
• Magic of Christmas at Butchart Gardens – holiday lights and illuminations (from December 1st, 2024, until January 6th, 2025).
• Dine Around & Stay in Town – special promotional deals at hotels and restaurants (from January 24th to February 9th in 2025).
• Be a Local Tourist in Your Town – access to various local attractions for a very low price (didn’t happen in 2024).
• Moss Street Market – a weekly market on Saturdays at Sir James Douglas School.

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

February Festivals & Events

• Valentine’s Day – February 14th, 2025.
• Family Day – a statutory holiday in British Columbia (February 17th, 2025).
• Victoria Film Festival – a film festival with shows at various venues. (In early February.)

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

March Festivals & Events

• Victoria Beer Week – many breweries in Victoria have special deals and exclusive tastings. (March 1st to 9th in 2024)
• Jazz Vespers – at the First Unitarian Church of Victoria.
• St. Patrick’s Day Festival – activities on Government Street between Yates and Fort.
• 5th Irish Whiskey Hooley – a festive event at the Irish Times Pub. Limited tickets are available with proceeds supporting the free St. Patrick’s Day Festival.
• Franco Fest – a francophone festival presented by the Victoria Francophone Société. (March 11th to 16th in 2024)
• Ballet Victoria – the local ballet company puts on a production at the Royal Theatre on March 21st, 22nd and 23rd, 2025.

April Festivals & Events

• April Fool’s Day – April 1st, 2024.
• Easter Long Weekend – April 18th to 21st, 2025.
• Earth Day – April 22nd, 2025.
• Greater Victoria Performing Arts Festival – from April 2nd until May 11th in 2024.
• Moss Street Market – a weekly outdoor farmers and artisan market every Saturday at the corner of Moss Street and Fairfield Road.
• TC 10K – Victoria’s largest running race (on April 27th, 2025).

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

May Festivals & Events

• Ballet Victoria – the local ballet company puts on a production at the Royal Theatre on May 16th and 17th, 2025.
• Cinco de Mayo – May 5th, 2025.
• Mother’s Day – the second Sunday in May when mothers are treated extra special. (May 11th, 2025)
• Hills to Shore Artists Tour – a self-guided tour of open houses at artist studios in the Gordon Head area of Victoria. (May 11th and 12th in 2024)
• VHS Annual Plant Sale – a fundraiser hosted by the Victoria Horticultural Society at the Garth Homer Centre. (May 11th in 2024)
• Oak Bay Half Marathon – a half marathon, half marathon relay, 10K & kids 1K races – May 25th, 2025.
• Victoria Highland Games and Celtic Festival – a Scottish festival on the Victoria Day long weekend (May 17th and 18th, 2025).
• Festival of Performances – multiple performances at the Parliament Buildings  (to be confirmed).
• 123rd Victoria Day Parade – presented by CHEK TV, the procession starts at Mayfair Mall and ends at Douglas and Humboldt Street. (May 19th, 2025)
• Luxton Spring Fair – a carnival with mid-way rides and games at 1040 Marwood Avenue. (May 16th to 19th in 2024)
• Canvas Family Fest – a free family-friendly event hosted by Canvas Church at Veterans Memorial Park. (May 20th in 2024)
• Spot Prawn and Fiddle Fest – market vendors, a fiddle contest and family-friendly activities at MacDonald Park in James Bay (in late May).
• Swiftsure International Yacht Race – a large sailing race between Victoria and Washington state (May 24th to 26th, 2025).
• Beach Food Days – food trucks on weekends from May 26th to September 3rd, 2024, at Ocean Boulevard in Colwood.
• Moss Street Market – a weekly outdoor farmers and artisan market on Saturdays at the corner of Moss Street and Fairfield Road between May and October.
• Bastion Square Public Market – downtown on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays from the end of April until the beginning of October. Also a larger version on Sundays.
• James Bay Market – at the corner of Superior and Menzies Street from early May until the fall.

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

June Festivals & Events

• Raymond James Father’s Day Walk/Run – three-kilometre and five-kilometre walking and runner events raising money to support people with prostate cancer (June 15th 2025).
• National Indigenous Peoples Day – June 21st, 2025.
• Go By Bike Week – formerly called “Bike to Work Week,” this is a free event encouraging people to ride their bikes during the week. (June 3rd to 9th in 2024)
• Oak Bay Tea Party – a community fair in Oak Bay that includes amusement rides at Willows Park. (May 31st to June 2nd in 2024)
• Victoria Pride Festival – a festival celebrating Pride and the 2SLGBTQIA+ communities. (From June 27th to July 7th in 2024.)
• TD Victoria International Jazz Fest – a music festival that features Jazz music performed by renowned artists from around the world takes place. (June 21st to 30th in 2024)
• Bastion Square Public Market – downtown on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays from the end of April until the beginning of October. Also a larger version on Sundays. (From mid-May until around the end of September.)
• James Bay Market – at the corner of Superior and Menzies Street on Saturdays from early May until the fall. (From early May to early October.)
• Oak Bay Night Market – a large night market in Oak Bay Village on the second Wednesday of the month from June through September
• Sidney Street Market – a night market on Thursday evenings. (From early June until early September.)

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

July Festivals & Events

• Canada Day (statutory holiday) – celebrations happen in Victoria’s Inner Harbour as well as along the Gorge Waterway (July 1st, 2025).
• Langford Beer Festival – an event with beer vendors from British Columbia as well as live music, food trucks and more at Starlight Stadium. (July 13th in 2024)
• ArtisTREE Festival – a special artisan market with live music and activities for children at Government House. (From July 27th to 28th in 2024.)
• Victoria Symphony in the Summer – a series of free and ticketed performances at various venues. (From July 24th to August 3rd in 2024.)
• Music by the Sea – live music at the Victoria International Marina in early August (July 25th to 27th in 2024).
• Moss Street Market – a weekly outdoor farmers and artisan market every Saturday at the corner of Moss Street and Fairfield Road between May and October.
• Bastion Square Public Market – downtown on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays from the end of April until the beginning of October. Also a larger version on Sundays (to be confirmed).
• Moss Street Paint In – a special one-day event that’s part of the Moss Street Market and features dozens of local artists and their work (July 20th in 2024).

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

August Festivals & Events

• Ronald McDonald House Vancouver Island Golf Tournament – the annual tournament happens at the Olympic View Golf Course this year. Twenty-four percent of children who attend Ronald McDonald House are from Vancouver Island (August 15th, 2024).
• BC Day (statutory holiday)   – August 5th, 2024.
• Dragon Boat Festival – dragon boat races in the Inner Harbour (from August 9th to 10th in 2024).
• Victoria Fringe Festival – a showcasing of theatrical art at various venues in Victoria (from August 21st to September 1st in 2024).
• Bowker Creek Brush Up – an art show along the Bowker Creek walkway featuring many local artists (August 11th in 2024).
• Vancouver Island Blues Bash – a collection of free and ticketed Jazz concerts at various venues around the city. (From August 23rd to 25th in 2024.)
• North Saanich Flavour Trails – an Ol’ Fashioned Farm Celebration takes place at the Sandown Centre for Regenerative Agriculture in North Saanich (from August 17th to 18th in 2024).
• Moss Street Market – a weekly outdoor farmers and artisan market from 10:00 am until 2:00 pm every Saturday at the corner of Moss Street and Fairfield Road between May and October.
• Bastion Square Public Market – downtown on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays from May until the end of September.

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

September Festivals & Events

• Capital City Comic Con – a gathering of all things pop culture including toys, comics, and games at the Victoria Conference Centre and Crystal Garden (unclear whether it’ll happen in 2024).
• Saanich Fair – a fair in Saanich that features many events and rides in early September (August 31st to September 4th in 2024).
• Labour Day (statutory holiday) – September 2nd, 2024.
• Great Canadian Beer Festival – an old beer festival at Royal Athletic Park showcasing more than 90 breweries from all over the country (September 6th and 7th in 2024).
• Island Prostate Ride to Live – a fundraising event at Enrico Winery with over 250 motorcycles (September 8th in 2024).
• Luxton Fall Fair – a carnival with mid-way rides and games at 1040 Marwood Avenue (September 27th to 29th in 2024).
• Rifflandia Music Festival – a music festival featuring local and international artists from September 13th to 15th in 2024.
• Victoria Festival of Authors – a writers’ festival that runs from late September to early October. The launch weekend is September 21st and 22nd in 2024, and the main festival is October 16th to 20th.

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

October Festivals & Events

• Victoria Marathon – a marathon, half marathon and 8K running race on the Thanksgiving long weekend (October 13th, 2024).
• Go By Bike Week – formerly called “Bike to Work Week,” this is a free event encouraging people to ride their bikes during the week (September 23rd to October 6th, 2024).
• Thanksgiving Monday (statutory holiday) – October 14th, 2024.
• Wicked Victoria – family-friendly fun on Government Street (on the weekend before Halloween).
• Halloween – October 31st, 2024.

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

November Festivals & Events

• Remembrance Day (statutory holiday) – November 11, 2024.
• Festival of Trees – from mid-November until early January (to be confirmed for 2024).
• American Thanksgiving (US) – November 28th, 2024.
• Christmas in O ak Bay – a week of holiday season activities in Oak Bay Village between the last Sunday in November and first Saturday in December.
• Light Up the City – the fourth annual event featuring Island-wide Christmas Lighting Contests (dates to be confirmed in 2024).
• 42nd Santa Light Parade – a Christmas parade with different floats from Government Street and Belleville to Wharf (November 30th in 2024).

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

December Festivals & Events

• Festival of Trees – at the Bay Centre (to be confirmed for 2024).
• Light Up the City – the third annual event featuring Island-wide Christmas Lighting Contests (dates to be confirmed in 2024).
• Christmas Day (statutory holiday) – December 25th, 2024.
• Boxing Day – December 26th, 2024.
• New Year’s Eve – December 31st, 2024.
• Christmas in Oak Bay – a week of holiday season activities in Oak Bay Village between late November and early December.
• Lights of Wonder – Christmas lights and illuminations at Centennial Square (from mid-December until the end of the month).
• The Spirit of Christmas – a winter holiday concert at the Mary Winspear Centre in Sidney (December 6th to 8th in 2024).

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

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August 2024

“brain machine” at the 2024 victoria fringe.

★★★★★ -CBC. “Bailey subtly, skillfully braids the stories of the Internet’s inventors with his own experience of going viral… Go, learn, laugh, take hope.” -The Georgia Straight. The hit solo show, “Brain Machine”, is finally coming to the Victoria Fringe! From the multiple award-winning creator of “The Adversary” and “Me, the Queen, and a Coconut”.

Victoria Fringe Festival

Victoria, BC – The annual Victoria Fringe Festival runs August 21st to September 1st, with 150 performances by 28 local, national, and international artists at venues across downtown Victoria, BC. Dance, comedy, drama, spoken word, kids programming, or late-night cabarets, try a bit of everything this summer at the Fringe! The 2024 Victoria Fringe will […]

BC Smoke Shop Harbour Blues ‘n Roots Festival 2024

Celebrate the end of summer on a high note with the BC Smoke Shop Harbour Blues ‘n Roots Festival, happening Friday, August 23 – Sunday, August 25, 2024. Formerly known as Vancouver Island Blues Bash, this festival brings a lineup of artists in the genres of blues, roots, country, rock, world, soul, and R&B. Featuring […]

The Dip (plus Krystle Dos Santos)

“The Dip bring soul back into the mainstream as their own Seattle sensibility matures and ferments an already robust sound… with a heaping plate of modern nostalgia, a diverse meal of soul, rock, and R&B sensibilities.” – No Depression Seattle-based R&B band The Dip features a three-piece horn section and a vintage sound that harkens […]

Sea Lanterns Workshop

Brighten up your day at this educational and creative workshop here at the Maritime Museum of British Columbia! Ever-present fog, shifting winds, and treacherous currents makes marine navigation challenging on British Columbia’s west coast, giving it the nickname “the Graveyard of the Pacific.” Transform a simple mason jar into your own “sea lantern” while learning […]

Vancouver Island’s 1st Caribbean Carnival Parade

 Join us for the first Caribbean Parade in the Capital of BC!   BE A PART OF HISTORY IN THE MAKING !!!!  On August 24th, join us as we start at the corner of Wharf St. and Government St. and parade up Government Street, ending at Centennial Square, celebrating freedom through masquerading! To learn more about […]

Bastion Square Market

The Bastion Square Market is a unique market series, situated right in the core of downtown Victoria. Bastion Square Market runs Thursdays, Fridays, Saturday and Sundays from 11am-5pm, from April until early October. Bastion Square Market endeavours to revitalize Bastion Square by bringing vibrancy, art, the support of local businesses and community engagement to the […]

Big Patio Days! Beer Gardens in Market Square

Big Patio Days! Live music, food vendors, games, fresh beer releases, all day beer gardens in market square, 6 dates throughout the summer, $5 cover at the door, you’re invited!   – June 22 – Birthday Party ft. Juice and Acres of Lions – July 6 – Victoria Stampede ft. Bowen and Whiskey Business – […]

Re-Love Market is back!

Join us in the lower courtyard. Also, keep your eyes peeled because, on Saturday, August 24th, the Re-Love Market and Big Patio Days by Whistle Buoy will be sharing the event day in the square. Make sure not to miss it because these events will be coming together to make it an epic day!

Pagliacci’s 45th Anniversary Street Party

Join us for an evening of fantastic music, community spirit, and pure joy as we celebrate Pagliacci’s 45th anniversary! The event will feature live performances from a stellar roster of artists, including The Bills, The Marc Atkinson Trio, Yiddish Columbia State Orchestra, Capital City Syncopators, Gene Hardy & Miles Black, The Sidewalk Blues Band (a […]

Rick Estrin & The Nightcats (plus Steve Marriner & Local Electric)

“Foot-stomping, wise-cracking contemporary songs, a combination of rockabilly, jazz, blues, rock, and big band swing. Estrin is a world class musician…the most colorful and entertaining showman around.” – Forbes The musically fearless and wildly entertaining Alligator Records recording artist Rick Estrin & The Nightcats are among the most entertaining and colourful showmen around. Their new […]

La Noche Cubana

La Noche CubanaSaturday, August 24Doors: 8 PM | Show: 8:30 PMTier 1: $35 | Tier 2: $40 | Door: $4519+ | ID Required Julio Avila Cuban Band is a dynamic addition to the Vancouver’s music and dance scene, led by Julio Avila, a talented bass player from Guantanamo, Cuba. The band delivers passionate performances of […]

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Your guide to local events and festivals in victoria bc.

Annual events and festivals in Victoria have something for everyone from a night out on the town to a family fun day. We are known as the Garden City but we could just as easily be known for our vibrant live entertainment, artisans, festivals and events.  

Disclaimer: This post includes affiliate links and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking one of my links. Learn more here .

The activities identified on my list are annual celebrations that we all look forward to. Get your calendar out and schedule time to take in some very cool experiences. Several of these events attract visitors from across the Pacific Northwest and Lower Mainland.  Northwest Deuce Days draw fans from around the globe. 

Get ready for world class entertainment!

Annual Events and Festivals in Victoria - January

Dine around & stay in town.

• food festival with over 50 of Victoria's best restaurants offering set three-course menus at low pricescheck website for locations and details
• Jan 26, 2024 to Feb 11, 2024
• Victoria, BC

Festival of Trees

• Trees are decorated by local businesses and organizations and on display in the Bay Centre, Victoria
• You can donate or sponsor a tree in support of BC Children's Hospital 
• Nov. 16, 2023 – Jan. 3, 2024
• Gin-focused food and beverage tasting festival; learn about the origins of gin making; shop from on-site vendors
• January 29th, 2023 (also hosting a festival in July) 
• 835 Humboldt Street, Victoria, BC

Gingerbread Showcase

see November for details

Goldstream Eagle Extravaganza 

• the end of annual salmon run marks the beginning of the Eagle Extravaganza
• watch the incredible natural phenomona at the Goldstream Provincial Park
• December through January

Victoria Whisky Festival 

• tastings, masterclasses, awards
• January 16 to 19, 2025
• Hotel Grand Pacific, 463 Belleville St

Annual Events and Festivals in Victoria - February

Dine around and stay in town.

• food festival with over 50 of Victoria's best restaurants offering set three-course menus at low prices
• check website for locations and details

Annual Events and Festivals in Victoria - March

Greater victoria flower count.

This annual activity encourages residents to wander into a garden, park or just down your street and count all the spring blooms. The count really is a bit of a promotion to show the rest of Canada and the world what a terrific tourism destination Victoria is. Visit their website  to submit your count. 

Victoria International Kizomba Festival

• workshops, dancing, socials and afterparties
• March 28, 2024 until April 1, 2024
• Victoria Conference Centre, 720 Douglas Street
• Get details here

Annual Events and Festivals in Victoria - April

Annual events and festivals in victoria - may, buccaneer days.

• A fun-filled weekend in Esquimalt with something for everyone including a miidway, dance, free local entertainment in Bullen Park, kids play zone, a parade and more!
• Bullen Park and Archie Browning Recreation Centre in Esquimalt
• May 10, 11 & 12, 2024

Highland Games & Celtic Festival

• International heavy events challenge, pipe bands, Irish and Highland dancers, Celtic music and much more all weekend long
• Topaz Park (Topaz/Finlayson/Blanshard)
• May 18 and 19, 2024 
• 2024 marks the 161 years of this terrific event

Victoria Day Parade

• featuring over 150 entries including Canadian and American marching bands, musical floats, cultural entries and festive clowns
• the largest parade in Victoria - usually attended by tens of thousands of spectators
• Always held on Victoria Day in downtown Victoria

African Cultural Week & AfriCa Fest 2024

• an annual celebration of African culture through food, music, and arts
• Victoria Spirit Square 
• 1 Centennial Square, Victoria, BC
• June 21 to 23, 2024

Annual Events and Festivals in Victoria - June

Oak bay tea party.

• held annually at Willows Park in Oak Bay featuring a parade, midway, pancake breakfast and a floating tea cup challenge
• Willows Park on Beach Drive
• May 31 to June 2, 2024

Victoria Indigenous Cultural Festival

• an annual celebration of First Nation culture and heritage with the Songhees and Esquimalt Nations
• Royal BC Museum, 675 Belleville Street, Victoria
• Jun 21–23, 2024

TD Victoria International Jazzfest

• 10/11-day festival featuring jazz and blues music
• various venues throughout Victoria
• Thursday, June 21 through to Sunday, June 30, 2024

Victoria Fish & Game Association Family Fishing DayAnnual Outdoor Discovery Day

The Victoria Fish and Game Protective Association’s annual open house held each year on Father’s Day at their 700 Holker Place site located on the top of the Malahat used to be one of our favourite events. A day of adventure was what you could expect with the annual event known as Outdoor Discovery Day. Unfortunately as of June 2022, this event has been cancelled indefinitely. The VFGPA cited recent changes to Canada's gun laws.

Instead of Outdoor Discovery Days they are now hosting a family fishing day open to the public on Saturday, June 15, 2024.  Check their website  for details of other events they are hosting. 

Annual Events and Festivals in Victoria - July

Summer time is fun time and that's exactly what you’ll find at Busker Festival - our annual street performer festival in downtown Victoria. Officially known as the Downtown Victoria Buskers Festival (DVBF), the event takes place over 5 days at various locations throughout the downtown area. Sometimes the festival happens in July and other years it has been August and even the early part of September. Check out Busker Central for the most up-to-date information regarding planned festivals.   

What is a Busker Festival?

You’ve probably seen a guitar player strumming along on the sidewalk with their case open. Passersby who enjoy the performance show their gratitude with some coins or a couple bills. Well a buskerfest takes this concept to a whole new level. 

In fact, there are travelling buskers who visit a variety of host cities throughout the summer, perfecting their craft. Professional buskers! 

The type of street performer you will see at the Victoria busker festival are musicians of all sorts, dancers, clowns, magicians, jugglers, acrobats, puppeteers, mimes and living statues.  

Some cities block off an entire section of a downtown road to host their festival.

In Victoria we have so many squares and prominent locations that closing down roads is not necessary.

You can expect to find buskers at Market Square, Bastion Square, the causeway at the Inner Harbour, the newly re-developed Ship Point and possibly other locations along Government Street. 

Busking is Not Begging

Buskers are not simply asking you for money. They put themselves out there to entertain without any guarantee of getting paid or even having an audience.

If you enjoy the performance then it is appropriate to show that by providing a tip. How much you tip is entirely up to you and every bit helps. 

Remember you are under no obligation to tip anybody with an open guitar case but these buskers are not just anybody. They have been invited to perform here because they are good. They are entertainers. Many of the performers you will meet do this for a living and they love it! They are not waiting for their big break – they already made it and now they are performing at an international busker festival!

Show your appreciation by:

• Getting involved in the show – have fun!
• Don’t heckle the street performers
• Play along if you get called up to volunteer
• Say thanks and let the performers know how much you enjoy the show
• Tip what you are comfortable with (a few coins if you're passing by; a couple bucks if you stop and watch the show)

See you in the summer!

• held at various locations throughout downtown Victoria
• It is unclear whether there will be a 2024 festival however local buskers are still out

Eats & Beats Beach Party

• live music, food trucks, craft beer garden, street market, climbing wall, paddling, cycling and more!
• on the beautiful waterfront of Royal Bay Beach in Colwood
• 2024 date to be announced
• July 29th, 2023 (also hosting a festival in January) 

Gorge Canada Day Picnic

• Come down to the beautiful Gorge Waterway between Tillicum and Admirals for a parade, pancake breakfast, a market, artisans and multicultural food vendors
• note Gorge Road is closed for this event and parking can be a challenge. Canadian Tire at Admirals and Craigflower graciously offers parking for the event however it can be very busy; walk or bus if you can
• always held on Canada Day

Moss Street Paint In

So Many Artists, So Little Time!

The Moss Street Paint In is an outdoor artistic event unlike any other and definitely one of the most anticipated festivals in Victoria. The ArtGallery of Greater Victoria which is located on Moss Street just south of Fort Street hosts the annual not-for-profit event. 

The event features approximately 100 to 150 established and emerging artists from Victoria and the surrounding areas. Each of the artists is selected for the event based on a competitive process which includes criteria such as excellence of work and originality. 

The basic concept behind the paint in is that artists bring their studio to the street. They are provided space to display their work and they are permitted to sell their work. However the main focus of the event is art awareness and education. This is accomplished by the artists talking with the visitors about their particular form of art, or demonstrating techniques by producing work on site.

Despite the name, paint is not the only medium you can expect to see when you go. The opportunity to meet individuals working in sculpting, pottery, sketching and carving - and learn about each of these artistic processes - also exists. 

The event itself is free but naturally they gratefully accept donations that support the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria.

And if you can walk the full length of Moss Street without finding at least one piece of art you want to buy, I would be surprised.

With so many fabulous artists in one place, it is very difficult to choose just one.

Of course, who says you have to take home just one piece?

The Moss Street Paint In is a one-day event typically held in mid-July from 11:00 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. The entire two kilometres of Moss Street is closed to vehicular traffic and lined with the booths of the artists. Past events have seen upwards of 40,000 visitors during that brief 5 ½ hour period. 

Paint In Crowds

What that means is a massive crowd of people. You may want to avoid this event if you are claustrophobic! Careful consideration should also be given to bringing pets or small children simply because it can be difficult to move around and easy to lose someone. 

Again because of the massive crowd of people – getting to Moss Street and finding parking can be a challenge. Your very best bet is to take the bus right to Fort and Moss Street. Other good options are walk if feasible or ride your bike.  If you must drive, then you’ll be looking for parking on one of the surrounding neighbourhood streets (along with thousands of others). Be sure to remember where you left your vehicle!

If you are an artist wishing to be considered for an invitation to participate or you would like to be involved as a volunteer, visit the events section of the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria’s website for details and the application forms. 

• Saturday, July 20, 2024

Northwest Deuce Days

• The largest gathering of Ford Deuces anywhere in the world
• One of the most unique festivals in Victoria, attracting over 1200 vintage vehicles including pre-1952 hot rods and street rods
• Held on the streets surrounding the inner harbour
• Festival has been happening approximately every 3 years since 2000
• Next Northwest Deuce Days scheduled for 2025
• Read more here

Splash Around Town (formerly Symphony Splash)

• Ten-day summer music festival featuring ticketed performances at venues around Victoria along with a series of free concerts at the Cameron Bandshell in Beacon Hill Park and on the Lawn of the BC Legislature
• 2024 dates to be confirmed

Summer Sounds Series

• Free music in the park; different musical group every week
• Sidney Beacon Park Bandshell, 9801 Seaport Place, Sidney
• every Sunday in July and August from 2:00 to 4:00 pm
• Admission free

• Thursday, June 21 through to Sunday, June 30th, 2024

The Phillips Backyard Weekender 

• Intimate, outdoor concerts held at Phillips Brewing & Malting Co "backyard", 2010 Government Street, Victoria
• Previous years have included concerts in May, July and August; check their website for line-up and dates

Victoria Flamenco Festival

• Live Flamenco music showcasing local and international dancers, singers, guitarists and percussion
• Hosted by the Flamenco de la Isla Society; various locations - see website for details
• 2024 dates to be announced

Annual Events and Festivals in Victoria - August

Canada dry victoria dragon boat festival.

• Dragon boat racing, entertainment and food trucks
• The only Dragon Boat Festival in Canada to take place in a working harbour; takes place in the waters off Ship Point in the Inner Harbour, Victoria BC
• August 9-10, 2024

Vancouver Island Dragon Boat Festival

• Fairway Gorge Paddling Club, 2940 Jutland Road, Victoria
• August 24-25, 2024

Ryder Hesjedal's Tour de Victoria

• Traffic-controlled, mass-participation cycling event throughout Greater Victoria
• Race lengths vary from 15km to 160km plus free kids ride
• Next race scheduled for August 17, 2024
• Visit their website for details, route maps and registration information

Victoria Fringe Festival

• 11 days of Indie theatre featuring local, national and international artists
• Live events and shows at various venues throughout Victoria
• End of August to Labour Day weekend
• August 21, 2024 to September 1, 2024

Annual Events and Festivals in Victoria - September

Classic boat festival.

• Up to 100 classic boats take over the harbour; some open to the public to board and tour
• Operated by the Maritime Museum of BC who incorporate marine-related exhibitions into the weekend
• Located on the docks of the Inner Harbour in downtown Victoria BC
• Festival takes place on Labour Day weekend
• Admission by donation

Esquimalt Ribfest

Saucy, Smokey, Divine Goodness!

One of the best traditions of fall and tastiest festivals in Victoria is Ribfest! And when you hear the word ribfest, you likely conjure up images of juicy, smokey, meaty deliciousness. But do you also see a brand-new community turf field and field house? The volunteers behind Esquimalt’s Ribfest certainly do and every year they are getting closer and closer to their own “field of dreams”.   

But first the ribs and festival behind the fundraising. 

If you are from Eastern Canada or US, you may be familiar with a rib festival. My hometown of London Ontario boasts that they are Canada’s first and biggest and the festival runs for 5 days over the August long weekend. They’ve been at it since 1985. Here in Esquimalt, they have been holding their event over 3 days in early September, since 2014. 

What Can You Expect at Ribfest?

Ribbers – professional chefs who specialize in preparing grilled meats – compete as a team against other teams of ribbers for coveted prizes such as Best Ribs, Best Sauce and People’s Choice. They generally use wood smokers with chips of cherry, hickory, apple or plum wood. Experienced ribbers may mix woods for their own unique blend. In addition, every team also has their own take on a top secret meat rub, sauce blend and smoking time. If you want to elevate your own grilling game, I highly recommend these spices and rubs from Triple Smoke made here on Vancouver Island in Shawnigan Lake.

Menus will feature pork and beef ribs and some vendors may also have a chicken option. But as the name implies, it’s mostly about the ribs. Saucy, smokey, divine goodness!

Of course, you’ll want some cold beverages to enjoy with those ribs and for guests 19+, there is a good variety of craft beers and ciders to choose from. 

What else is at the Esquimalt Ribfest Festival?

• Great live music
• Free kids’ activities
• Variety of fair-type vendors (you’ve got to have mini-donuts at a festival, right?)

Although it is free to attend, this is a fund-raising event and donations are encouraged. After covering the costs of the event, all money raised goes to the Esquimalt Firefighters Charitable Foundation and the Esquimalt Ribfest Society. The money stays in the community and helps fund some local charities and some activities for the youth of the community.

Enter the field of dreams.One of the recipients of the proceeds is the group trying to bring an all-weather playing field (now known as Es-Whoy-Malth Community Field Collaboration) to E-town complete with lights for year-round use, a grandstand and field house with change rooms and washrooms.It is a lofty goal, but the momentum is building and so is the bank account. The project has collectively raised more than $330,000 and is now applying to various levels of government for additional funding. 

• There are no pets, no smoking and no credit at the Esquimalt Ribfest – bring cash or access the ATM machines on site. 
• The festival relies on volunteers. If you'd like to help out, be sure to  contact them . 
• Ribfest takes place at Bullen Park. 
• September 6 to 8, 2024

Great Canadian Beer Festival

• Canada's oldest craft beer festival, entertainment and food trucks
• Located on the field at Royal Athletic Park in Victoria
• 30th Anniversary - September 6 and 7, 2024

Luxton Fall Fair

• Agricultural fair featuring various displays and exhibits, midway rides, games, handicrafts and product booths
• Located on the Luxton Fair grounds located at 1019 Marwood Avenue in Metchosin
• Live music festival featuring a variety of music on the stages at Royal Athletic Park (all ages) and various other venues throughout Victoria (some 19+)
• September 13 to 15, 2024

Saanich Fair

• Agricultural fair with a midway, games, food vendors, entertainment and a market
• Located at the Saanich Fairgrounds at 1528 Stellys Cross Road, Saanichton
• Free parking, pricing for fair admission and midway wristbands will be announced prior to the event 
• 155th fair will take place August 31 to September 2, 2024

Annual Events and Festivals in Victoria - October

Victoria wine festival.

• The Victoria Wine Festival is a much-anticipated annual event for the city's wine enthusiasts. Each year, vendors from around the globe gather in victoria to showcase wines of all kinds.
• October 1 to 7, 2024
• The Powerhouse, 2110 Store Street, Victoria, BC

Goldstream Salmon Run

• Experience awesome mother nature with the never-disappointing annual salmon run at Goldstream Park
• Thousands of salmon will return to the place of their birth to reproduce
• Salmon begin returning in mid-October and will continue until early-December
• Read more about Goldstream Provincial Park here

Annual Events and Festivals in Victoria - November

Every year, at the annual Gingerbread Showcase in Victoria, gingerbread house ideas are transformed into marvellous creations, all in support of Habitat for Humanity. The annual event is building a reputation as a premier family-friendly holiday tradition not to be missed.

Each year attracts more entries and more visitors and raises more money for Habitat for Humanity. In 2020 a whopping $102,000 was raised during the 7-week event, with all of it going directly to support build projects in Greater Victoria. 

All photos credit: Habitat for Humanity Victoria - Gingerbread Showcase

And to help get the creative gingerbread house ideas flowing, the organizers of the Gingerbread Showcase designate a theme each year. Recent years have seen themes such as Around the World, Celebrating Canada, No Place Like Home and Come & Join Our Neighbourhood. The theme for 2022 is Magical. But the bakers aren’t restricted to make houses. In fact, they prefer to call them “creations”.

There are a few rules that all bakers – amateurs and professionals – must abide by:

• Each creation must be on a solid 24" x 24” plywood base that is provided.
• No part of the creation is allowed to extend over the edge of the base. 
• The creation must be a minimum of 18” in height (these are some serious dimensions!)
• Everything has got to be edible (except that plywood of course)
• You are responsible for getting it to the display location and setting it up (this is where Buddy from Cake Boss would come in handy – his team knows how to move creations without toppling them over!)

If you decide, heck I don’t want to just look at all these masterpieces, I want to participate and make my own, then there’s a few things you need to know.

• First impressions matter – make yours a beauty. 
• The judges will want to see your creativity and originality, how well you interpret the theme as well as your use of gingerbread.
• They’ll want to see the techniques you used and skills you have demonstrated. 
• And the baking engineers will be interested in the structural integrity of your creation. 

Awards will be given in areas such as the best professional and best amateur, best first impression and best interpretation of the theme.

Maybe you don’t want to enter the competition but just get a few ideas for some gingerbread baking with friends or family. The very best way to get inspired is to head out to the annual Gingerbread Showcase.

• The Parkside Hotel and Spa
• late November until early January
• 2024-25 dates to be announced 

Get more gingerbread house ideas from some past years of the Gingerbread Showcase  2016 ,  2017 ,  2018 , 2019 .

Santa Claus Parade

• An evening parade with a new route beginning in 2022; parade begins in front of the Legislature on Government Street, and ends at Douglas and Fisgard Streets
• November 30, 2024

Annual Events and Festivals in Victoria - December

Goldstream eagle extravaganza.

• When the salmon run is over, the eagle show begins at Goldstream Provincial Park
• Guaranteed "awe" is what you'll experience when you see hundreds of eagles in the trees and swooping overhead as they gorge on the leftover salmon carcasses
• Early December until January

Lighted Truck Parade

• Officially known as the IEOA (Island Equipment Owners Association) Annual Truck Light Convoy and Food Drive
• The parade begins at Ogden Point and weaves its way through town, ending in the Western Communities
• Visit the website for parade route and anticipated arrival times at major intersections
• December 7, 2024

North Park Multicultural Festival & Community Skate

• A celebration of culture and diversity with food, arts, crafts, performances and activities
• Located at the Save On Foods Memorial Arena at 1925 Blanshard Street in Victoria
• 2024 dates and times to be announced 

When planning to attend some of the larger events and festivals in Victoria that draw crowds in the tens of thousands, it is important to have a strategy for when the show is over.

If you must drive, then parking several blocks away from the celebration area and bringing a wagon (we use ours for so many things and I love that it folds up for storage) or stroller works well. 

If you are taking BC Transit home, consider walking to one or two bus stops  before  where the large crowds are. You will have a better chance on getting on a bus before it gets too full to accept more passengers. It can sometimes be a lengthy wait (seemingly longer with children or in inclement weather) to get a bus after large events downtown. 

Our handy monthly guides will help you plan your visit to Victoria with everything you need to know about the weather, how to dress, foods in seasons and even more events listed for each month. 

Did we miss one of your favourite festivals and events? Use our  Contact Us  form to tell us about it and include photos if you have them. 

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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!

Middle Beach Lodge, Tofino: Hotel Review

6 best things to do on saturna island, bc.

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Must Do Canada

The Best Things to Do in Canada

23 of the Best Things to Do in Victoria, BC

April 16, 2024 By Matthew G. Bailey 13 Comments

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

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

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

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

Planning your trip to Victoria last minute?

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

🇨🇦 Top Activities and Tours in Victoria:

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

🛌 Top Hotels in Victoria:

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

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

Table of Contents

Things to Do in Victoria BC

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

Get Stunning Views from Malahat Skywalk

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

Smell the Roses at the Butchart Gardens

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

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

Visit the Royal BC Museum

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

Visit Fisherman’s Wharf

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

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

Go for a Stroll at Beacon Hill Park

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

Explore the Inner Harbour and Victoria Pier

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

Take a Walking Food Tour

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

Click Here to Book Your Food Tour!

Visit the Victoria Parliament Buildings

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

Go inside Craigdarroch Castle

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

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

Go Whale Watching

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

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

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

Go Small at Miniature World

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

Abkhazi Garden

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

Visit the Victoria Bug Zoo

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

Stop by the Empress Hotel

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

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

Explore Chinatown

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

Go Kayaking

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

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

Get Amazing Views from the Malahat Skywalk

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

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

See the Victoria Butterfly Gardens

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

Click here to purchase your ticket to the Butterfly Gardens .

Get a View from the lookout

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

Fort Rodd Hill National Historic Site

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

Day Trips to the Smaller Islands

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

Explore Vancouver Island

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

Tips for Saving Money in Victoria

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Where to Stay in Victoria

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

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

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

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

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

Where to Eat in Victoria

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

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

Getting to Victoria BC

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

Getting to Victoria by Plane

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

Getting to Victoria by Car and Ferry

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

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

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

Getting to Victoria by Bus

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

Getting to Victoria by Tour

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

How to Get Around Victoria

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Weather for Victoria Travel (Best Time to Visit)

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

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

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

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

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

Fun Things to Do on Vancouver Island and Beyond

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

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

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

About Matthew G. Bailey

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

Reader Interactions

April 5, 2021 at 7:18 pm

This looks so amazing! Thanks for all this information!

April 7, 2021 at 12:56 pm

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

April 28, 2021 at 2:06 pm

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

May 10, 2021 at 7:27 pm

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

May 12, 2021 at 8:50 am

I love Victoria!

May 13, 2021 at 2:52 pm

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

May 18, 2021 at 8:23 am

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

May 26, 2021 at 6:45 pm

I’ve always wanted to go explore Victoria

January 8, 2022 at 12:38 pm

Great website, each spot is beautifully articulated!

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

January 8, 2022 at 1:17 pm

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

June 6, 2022 at 10:08 pm

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

March 9, 2023 at 11:20 am

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

March 9, 2023 at 11:58 am

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

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InfoVictoria

Welcome to Victoria!

Info victoria is your source for the best victoria bc has to offer.

Explore Victoria

Discover the unique victoria shopping experience.

Eat in Victoria!

Victoria bc has some great places to eat.

The Best Victoria Attractions

See why visitors come here again and again, planning your victoria exploration.

There is so much to see in Victoria, even the people living here need years to see it all. That’s why we put together resources on this site to help you prioritize your visit and ensure you and your family form lasting memories of a successful holiday. Here you will find valuable information about Victoria’s best hotels, sumptuous restaurants, eclectic shopping, cultural events and natural vistas.

When you arrive in our fair city, be sure to look for a copy of  Explore Victoria  – our glossy, high quality publication found in most motel and hotel rooms throughout the city. And we invite you to stop by our Greater Victoria Tourist Information Center found in the Victoria Public Market in the old Hudson’s Bay building. See you soon!

Info on Victoria

Victoria is a small city of some 350,000, located on the south tip of Vancouver Island and the capital of British Columbia. It features a bustling inner harbour nestled in the Salish Sea, overlooked by majestic mountains, and graced with an abundance of flowers.

This city brims with artists, artisans and venues. Visit the famous Robert Bateman Center on top of the Inner Harbour causeway featuring the largest exhibit of original works by the world renowned wildlife artist. There you will enjoy his lifetime commitment to the majesty of nature through more than one hundred pieces painted across his lifetime. Walk down the causeway along the inner harbour and you will find talented buskers entertaining and creating an eclectic variety of art.

In the busy harbour, sailboats and tour boats come and go as ducks and harbour seals play in their wake, kayakers and canoeists poke into coves and marinas, and floatplanes take flight off the water. If you feel like exploring the city from both land and water, take a trip with Hippo Tours – both a bus and a boat combined! Go on a whale watching adventure with either Eagle Wing or BC Whale Tours to visit our resident killer whales, or take your kids to see Miniature World located in the classic Empress Hotel which features over 80 exquisite miniature dioramas.

South of the Empress Hotel, the Royal BC Museum and Imax Theatre has so much to see you’ll need to plan a second trip. Nearby in Thunderbird Park is the Mungo Martin carving shed named after the Kwakiutl artist who began the restoration work on native totem poles, now housed in glass cases by the Royal British Columbia Museum.

If live performances are your thing, take in some extraordinary music with the Victoria Symphony – Vancouver Island’s premier performing arts organization.

There is something for everyone; historical buildings and tours, souvenir and specialty shops, restaurants that cater to families and sophisticates, pubs, lounges, coffee bars and antique shops are all within walking distance in downtown. Victoria boasts more restaurants per capita than any other Canadian city which means every kind of international cuisine can be found here. For lunch, stop and have some Indian food at India Bistro, or Mediterranean at Black Olive Restaurant, or Chinese at the Fountain Restaurant or even pizza at the Famoso Neapolitan Pizzeria in Market Square plaza near Chinatown.

Victoria is known as the city of flowers. Take in the famous Butchart Gardens, the exotic Butterfly World nearby, or stay in the city and visit Beacon Hill Park – Victoria’s ‘south lawn’ facing the Juan de Fuca Strait. If you want to escape the bustle of the city, pristine and wild, Goldstream Park is only minutes from downtown Victoria. Here you can climb a mountain, visit a waterfall or, at certain times of the year, marvel at the struggles of spawning salmon.

This city has something for every taste of adventure. Enjoy our site and your exploration of Victoria!

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Weekend getaway itinerary: 48 hours of walkable food and fun in Downtown Victoria

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Downtown Victoria is one of B.C.'s most charming destinations, thanks to its waterfront locale, historic sites, vibrant culture, and great shops and dining options. For travellers who are content to step into their walking shoes and hone in on Victoria's lively central core, there is plenty to see, do, and - most importantly - eat to easily fill 48 hours.

Getting to Victoria from Metro Vancouver is a breeze, whether it be by BC Ferries (Tsawwassen to Swartz Bay is the closest route) or seaplane, direct to Victoria's picturesque Inner Harbour. Once you've arrived, ditch the car in favour of exploring Downtown Victoria on foot. You're steps from all sorts of terrific food and drink, from cozy cafes to upscale restaurants, and all sorts of ways to fill the time in between meals. 

Whether you're a history buff, art enthusiast, or simply seeking the perfect spot for a leisurely walk, Victoria's downtown area has something for everyone.

Solo travellers, couples on a romantic getaway, or families seeking memorable experiences can take note of all the food and fun at hand for a weekend (or two-night) escape to British Columbia's welcoming capital. Geek out on retro toys and arcade games, shop at local small businesses, and enjoy your fill of coffee, cocktails, award-winning restaurant fare, and delicious sweet treats, all without driving a kilometre (minus the drives from and to the ferry terminal).

Note: the trip outlined in this guide was conducted from a Saturday morning through a Monday evening.

Day One: Mini golf and maximum deliciousness

9 a.m.  Depart from BC Ferries' Tsawwassen terminal for Swartz Bay. You've made a reservation, so you just need to arrive in the 30 to 60-minute window ahead of departure. You could grab breakfast at the terminal while you wait, on board, or BYO. The bottom line is: Don't fill up. You've got a lot of eating ahead to do.

10:40 a.m . Arrive in Swartz Bay and hit the road for Downtown Victoria. 

11 a.m.  Drop off your car at your hotel. Choosing a stay that's in Victoria's Downtown core means you can ditch the car and get around on foot until it's time to depart. The Magnolia Hotel & Spa is a fantastic option; this boutique stay has probably one of the comfiest hotel beds, a friendly and helpful staff, lovely amenities (like coffee, tea, hot apple cider, and snacks in the lobby), and rooms with luxe touches like Dyson hair dryers.

11:30 a.m.  Walk to Discovery Coffee on Blanshard to fuel up with an excellent coffee. Grab a Yonni's donut while you're there, in case you need a little snack to tide you over. Feel free to ponder the whole "doughnut" versus "donut" spelling debate, if you need help landing on a topic.

12:30 p.m. : Brunch at Bear & Joey . Known for being one of Victoria's most aesthetic cafes, Bear & Joey's origin story puts this charming and popular coffee and brunch spot as being a nod to Aussie cafe culture. To that end, while you may not hear a single "g'day," you can ogle the pastel interior while you sip coffee, tea, or cocktails (and mocktails) along with dishes like beets on toast with seasonally-driven toppings or a divine banh mi-style pork belly sandwich. 

2 p.m. : Enjoy a rousing round of mini golf at the Haunted Manor . This fully indoor mini golf course is cleverly built inside a heritage building and features several challenging holes that have you using your hands, feet, and mind to get your ball where it's meant to go. If you're a little nervous, the staff will warn you about where there are a couple of small scares.

3:30 p.m. : Head back to the Magnolia to relax. On your way, take some time to enjoy Victoria's murals, historic markers, and many eclectic shops. If you need any guidance on how to explore Victoria, the Magnolia offers its guests handy map cards featuring some different ways to experience the city based on your interests, from food lovers to nature enthusiasts. You can also borrow bikes from the hotel to explore on two wheels.

6 p.m. : Dinner at The Courtney Room . So convenient, you don't even need to put on a coat! The Magnolia's in-house restaurant drew instant acclaim when it launched in 2018. Under the leadership of Chef Brian Tesolin, guests can enjoy The Courtney Room's tasting menu featuring several progressive courses. The exciting meal takes guests on a culinary journey that builds in flavour and demonstrates technique and creativity. Dishes in late fall may include plates like an amuse bouche of nasturtium bunuelo, with sea buckthorn and shoyu zuke salmon egg and main courses like Fraser Valley duck breast with mushrooms and brown butter, as well as an immensely satisfying dessert of "Brown Sugar Brulee" which is a milk chocolate cremeux with orange and hazelnut. 

Be sure to check out The Courtney's Room's wonderful cocktail list and wine lovers may wish to either select the optional wine-pairing add-on for the tasting menu or ask for suggested pairings for a course or two by the glass or bottle. 

9 p.m. : Relax back in your room or, if you're up for it, head to Humboldt Bar or Tourist for a nightcap. Odds are you are quite full and you took advantage of The Courtney Room's sommelier's wine suggestions with your dinner, so a relaxing bath might be a good plan. The Magnolia has bubble bath from Saltspring Soapworks in your room, so that might be the best "pour" on your agenda before bedtime.

Day Two: Steps, sweets, and one of Canada's Best New Restaurants

9 a.m.  Put on your walking shoes because you're going to log some serious steps today. Hit the pavement and head to Hey Happy for coffee. This is a colourful, modern coffee spot on the edge of Chinatown. Half the cafe is the main counter where they make specialty tea and espresso drinks, along with drip coffee, and have pastries and breakfast sandwiches on offer. If you're ravenous, give in to temptation, but if you are fine with just a beverage, be sure to set aside some time to take a seat and hang out. Don't worry, your next stop isn't far. 

10 a.m.  Brunch at Eva Schnitzelhaus . Victoria is a city that loves its brunch, but this German-inspired spot flies a little under the radar on the weekends when it serves up a brunch menu that, unsurprisingly, showcases its golden-fried schnitzel. The Jaegerschnitzel features schnitzel topped with poached eggs and mushroom sauce with a side of greens (for health), and the Smoked Trout Benny has its poached eggs perched on sauerkraut pancakes topped with Hollandaise - both worthy brunch dishes. 

11:30 a.m.  Do some shopping in Downtown Victoria. Be sure to make a stop at  Munro's Books , one of the city's most beloved bookstores, and take some time to roam the shelves. There are so many quirky shops in the area, so surely plenty of businesses will catch your eye, whether you love art, puzzles, home decor, or antiques. Fans of vintage/retro toys will want to pop into Cherry Bomb for a big hit of nostalgia. 

1 p.m.  Play some retro games at Quazar's arcade . Try your hand at classic arcade games like Donkey Kong, BurgerTime, and Tetris, or jump in the driver's seat for Mario Kart. 

2 p.m.  Stop for an ice cream at Chocolats Favoris . This is the only location of this Quebec chain west of Ontario, and you will surely catch the aroma of chocolate wafting down Government Street long before you cross the charming ice cream fountain's threshold. Chocolats Favoris does soft-serve treats in cups and cones they dunk in their warm, thick, rich chocolate coating. Even the small sizes are massive and decadent, and easily stand in for a sit-down lunch when you have lots of other fantastic restaurants on the agenda for the day. 

2:30 p.m . If you haven't been to Miniature World , put this charming museum on the bottom level of the historic Empress Hotel on your list. The displays are a little old-fashioned, but enchanting nonetheless, especially when there's a button or two you can push to make trains and cars move or lights flicker off and on.

4 p.m.  Happy Hour at Wind Cries Mary . Located in Bastion Square, this hot spot has become emblematic of the recent new wave of modern bar-restaurants in Victoria. Happy Hour drinks are approachable aperitivos like the Pitchfork (Esquimalt vermouth, Cynar, soda, peach bitters), but the full drink menu is also available. Snacks include smoked cod toast or whipped feta with Maiiz corn chips.

6 p.m.  You've got dinner reservations at Marilena Café + Raw Bar . This is one of the buzziest restaurants in Victoria, and a 2023 pick for one of the best new restaurants in Canada , and deservedly so. Owned by the same company as Vancouver's Elisa, Blue Water, and Thierry, Marilena is an upscale nod to all things seafood, from elegant crudo to sushi rolls, freshly shucked oysters, and mains like lobster pasta. Cocktails and wine selections here are - unsurprisingly - top-notch, so budget for a splurge and a cab or Uber ride back to your hotel, or enjoy a nighttime stroll to walk off all that delicious food.

Day Three: Make the most of your time in and around Victoria before you hit the road

9:30 a.m.: After a leisurely wake-up, head downstairs for breakfast at The Courtney Room. The restaurant does a lovely weekday breakfast and has the same menu and more available for weekend brunch, including all sorts of egg-centric classics, with an emphasis on seafood. Some great dishes include the Magnolia Omelette (three local farm eggs, Dungeness crab, aged cheddar, chives, Magnolia & paprika Hollandaise) and the Smoked Salmon Benny (two poached local farm eggs, whipped chive crème, caper berries, pickled beets, Magnolia & paprika Hollandaise, on an English muffin). 

11 a.m.:  Check out of your room at The Magnolia, but leave the car with the valet and your luggage with the front desk. Enjoy a walk along the harbour and head over to the Parliament buildings

12:30 p.m. Make your way back up into downtown via the waterfront, and hang a right on Fisgard. Your next stop is lunch at Maiiz Nixtamal . Chef/owner Israel Alvarez came to Victoria by way of Edmonton from his native Mexico a few years ago and used to showcase his incredible handmade tortillas and authentic Mexican food as a pop-up at the Breakwater Tasting Room. He now has his own tortilleria and casual restaurant where you can pull up a seat and tuck into tacos, chilaquiles , and esquites in the vibrant cafe/market while watching the tortillas being made with B.C.-grown corn. Don't be surprised if Alvarez greets you by handing you a fresh-off-the-line warm tortilla to try as soon as you walk in. 

1:30 p.m. Need a little jolt in your step? Pick up a coffee for the road at Habit Coffee in Chinatown on your walk back to pick up your luggage and car. 

2 p.m. Fol Epi may have closed its downtown organic bakery location, but they still have a small shop/cafe in West Victoria worth a visit. Once you're back in your car, make a little detour over that way because you'll want to get a fresh loaf of bread and a sweet treat for the afternoon.

2:30 p.m. You've done Butchart Gardens probably , and maybe even Abkhazi Garden , too. So this time, check out The Gardens at Horticulture Centre of the Pacific (HCP) for something different. This is a year-round garden education centre with beautiful grounds you can explore and see the changing seasons up close. Though you probably won't get to see it all, the volunteer at the front desk can help steer you toward some of the seasonal highlights for you to prioritize this visit. 

4-4:30 p.m . Arrive at the BC Ferries terminal in Swartz Bay for the 5 p.m. ferry to Tsawwassen. It's time to head back to the Mainland. You'll be home by suppertime, but if you've done your visit right, you won't be hungry for a single thing. 

Disclaimer: Thanks to The Magnolia Hotel & Spa for accommodations and visits to The Courtney Room and to  Tourism Victoria for facilitating some of the featured experiences. Only a portion of the featured businesses hosted visits. All opinions and inclusions are those of the author and were not guided or influenced in any way, and none of the businesses or entities mentioned were granted any previews of this article before publication. 

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British Columbia , Urban Adventures

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.

MY FAVOURITE GEAR

Fleece Sweater

Down Jacket

Hiking Boots

Hiking Shirt

Hiking Pants

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Travel reviews

• Worth the detour

Victoria is a haven of peace with a proud British heritage, and a city of beautiful contrasts, where the elegance of history mingles with the panache of modern life. You will be charmed by the lovely gardens and the scenic walking route along the waterfront, offering dazzling views of the ocean.

Inner Harbour 

During the summer months, concerts, street performers, food trucks and artists provide enjoyment for visitors and locals alike.

Whale-watching safari

The nutrient-rich waters of the Strait of Juan de Fuca are a fertile feeding ground for ocean wildlife. Three pods of resident orcas or " killer whales " make this area their summer home.

Picture a 2-metre long dorsal fin breaking the surface close to your boat,  as an 8-ton mammal comes up to the surface to breathe... It's a sight you will never forget!

Beacon Hill Park 

Beacon Hill Park is a delightful quiet place to do some bird watching and the perfect spot for a summer picnic.

Royal BC Museum 

Afternoon tea in Victoria

Reservations highly recommended.

CRAIGDARROCH CASTLE

This historic Victorian-era Scottish Baronial mansion was built between 1887 and 1890 on a hill overlooking the City of Victoria. It reflects the wealth of its first owner, Robert Dunsmuir , a Scottish immigrant who made his fortune from Vancouver Island coal. He died in 1889 before construction on the castle was completed, leaving the estate to his wife Joan, who lived there until her death in 1908. You can tour the castle with its four floors of exquisite stained glass windows, intricate woodwork and fabulous Victorian-era furnishings.

Butchart Gardens 

Optional activities

• Orcas at sunset
• Royal BC Museum
• Orca watching (zodiac)
• Orca Safari by Boat

Where to eat

• $ Inexpensive
• $$ Moderate
• $$$ Upscale
• $$$$ Fine dining

Blue Fox Cafe ($-$$)

Victoria’s first and foremost all-day breakfast. Not in the mood for breakfast? The menu also includes soups, sandwiches, burgers and quesadillas. Be warned, this is an extremely popular spot so you may be better off going outside of peak hours.

Fishhook ($$-$$$)

This unique little restaurant specializes in fish and tartines packed with new and surprising flavours. The menu also includes a variety of curries, salads, soups and share platters featuring sustainable, locally sourced and farm fresh ingredients. A local favourite!

Stage Wine Bar ($$-$$$)

A cozy wine bar and upscale tapas restaurant. Located close to Belfry Theatre, just a few minutes from downtown Victoria, it's the perfect place to grab a bite to eat before a concert ! The menu changes daily. A welcoming atmosphere, friendly service, and a wine list that will charm connoisseurs and novices alike.

Il Terrazzo ($$-$$$)

One of the oldest restaurants in Victoria! Il Terrazzo features a large courtyard where gardens, brick walls and wood fireplaces combine to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The menu offers fine Italian cuisine accompanied by a vast selection of wines, most of which can be ordered by the glass. The ideal place for an intimate candlelight dinner!

SWANS PUB ($$-$$$)

Open since 1989, Swans is a hotel, a microbrewery and a pub. It's a great place to enjoy a casual bistro-style meal with family or friends. The warm, friendly ambiance will make you feel right at home as you sip your craft beer, glass of wine or cocktail.

Marina Restaurant ($$$)

This seafood restaurant offers sweeping harbour views and an impressive menu featuring local sustainable seafood. The cocktail list is delightful, and the wine list, a balance of old and new world, emphasizes family-owned local wineries. Don't miss Sunday brunch: an award-winning west coast buffet with a well-deserved reputation. Brunch reservations are recommended. Note that clients also come for the sweeping ocean views!

Where to sleep ?

• Royal Scot Hotel & Suites
• Hotel Grand Pacific
• Fairmont Empress
• Oak Bay Beach Hotel
• Pendray Inn & Tea House
• Goldstream Campground
• Oceanside Camping & RV Resort
• Hotel Zed Victoria

Festivals calendar

Swiftsure international yacht race.

Dates:  end of May

Organized by the Royal Victoria Yacht Club, this premier long-distance sailing race starting and ending in Victoria offers the colourful spectacle of 200 sailboats and their crews.

Victoria Dragon Boat Festival

Dates:  mid-August

Dragon boating is an extremely popular sport in British Colombia. The Victoria Dragon Boat Festival will provide you with another option if you missed the June event in Vancouver. Watch some 90 teams paddle across Victoria's Inner Harbour in an exciting, colourful 500-metre race.

When to visit

• Very Favourable
• Unfavourable

Capital of BC

Lovely town, lots and lots to do and very different things. I loved watching the water taxis. People very nice and friendly. The floating harbour with houses and food was great.

Really liked Vistoria. Small city with lots of history

Great setting. The CBD is small. Within 15 mins you're walking through old style suburbs which are pretty. Colonial history interesting. We found locals pubs and restaurant but there's also more up market tourist eateries on the waterfront. Lovely.

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Follow your sense of discovery to Greater Victoria

Where land meets sea & cultures converge

Open-hearted, open-minded, and wide open spaces await.

Whale tales & blowhole buddies

Shouts of glee punctuate the air as you float alongside majestic orca, humpback, gray and minke whales on a guided excursion. Beyond blowholes, watch porpoises, sea lions and seals at play as marine birds glide over the sea.

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Victoria, bc.

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VICTORIA, BC FESTIVALS AND SPECIAL EVENTS IN NOVEMBER

SURE, IT’S STARTING TO TURN INTO WINTER.  BUT HEY!  THIS IS VICTORIA!  MILDEST CLIMATE IN CANADA!  WE THUMB OUR NOSE AT WINTER!  LOTS STILL GOING ON!

WHAT’S PLAYING!

WHAT’S PLAYING AT STAR CINEMA

June 5th, 2024 | 0 Comments

Sidney’s local, independent movie theatre! 9840 Third St, Sidney, BC CLICK HERE FOR FILMS PLAYING AND UP-COMING!

LANGHAM COURT THEATRE

November 13th, 2023 | 0 Comments

WHAT'S ON AT THE LANGHAM COURT THEATRE CHECK OUT THE 2023/2024 SEASON

BLUE BRIDGE REPERATORY CENTRE

WHAT'S PLAYING AT THE BLUE BRIDGE! BLUE BRIDGE 2023/2024 SEASON

THE ROYAL & MCPHERSON THEATRES

November 10th, 2023 | 2 Comments

CLICK HERE FOR THE 2023/2024 PERFORMANCES

THE BELFRY THEATRE

November 10th, 2023 | 0 Comments

WHATS ON AT THE BELFRY 2023/2024 SEASON CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

SAVE ON FOODS MEMORIAL CENTRE

November 8th, 2023 | 0 Comments

Live shows, music, sports ... WHAT'S COMING UP AT THE ARENA! CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION!

WHAT’S PLAYING AT THE KALEIDOSCOPE

October 19th, 2023 | 2 Comments

CHECK OUT THE 2023/24 SEASON AT THE KALEIDOSCOPE THEATRE!

PACIFIC OPERA VICTORIA

October 19th, 2023 | 0 Comments

2023/24 SEASON CONCERT LISTINGS  

VICTORIA SYMPHONY

August 21st, 2023 | 0 Comments

Victoria Symphony 2023/24 Season Concert Listings

VICTORIA FILM FESTIVAL

August 10th, 2023 | 0 Comments

SEE WHAT'S PLAYING AT THE VIC THEATRE! 808 Douglas St CLICK HERE FOR SCHEDULE