OVERVIEW
Visit the quaint waterfront city of Victoria for a captivating blend of natural beauty, history and culture. Known for having the mildest climate in Canada, there is plenty to see and do in Victoria year-round. Get out out on the water and book a kayaking lesson or join a wildlife tour, or stick to strolling the cobblestone streets for quaint shops, and dining at world-class restaurants.
Victoria is also known as the Garden City, with flowers blooming all around town, has the oldest Chinatown in Canada, and is home to the historic BC Parliament Buildings.
Top things to do
Credit: Tourism Victoria / Jordan Dyck
Explore a castle
See how the prestige lived in the 1890s with a visit to Craigdarroch Castle—now a National Historic Site.
Credit: Destination BC / Tanya Goehring
Experience Chinatown
Stroll through the oldest Chinatown in Canada, including the famous Fan Tan Alley, known for being the narrowest commercial street in North America.
Credit: Destination Greater Victoria
Shop
Shop in quaint shops, local boutiques, and in local independent retailers, and find handmade gifts, local Aboriginal art or designs by fashion trendsetters.
Credit: Destination Greater Victoria
Visit Beacon Hill Park
Take a stroll through the 200-acre Beacon Hill Park. Enjoy the free gardens, check out the totem pole, rose garden, lily pond, cricket ground, Petting Zoo, and more. Plus, watch for a variety of wildlife, including: heron, owls, peacocks and turtles.
Credit: Destination Greater Victoria
Taste local beer
Tantalize your tastebuds with a wide selection of craft beers in the local bars and restaurants, plus check out one of the many local breweries along the BC Ale Trail.
Explore activities
Island Time Tours Sidney Sip & Shores Tour
Begin your adventure with a cider flight and a delicious charcuterie board while soaking in the breathtaking panoramic views of the Saanich Peninsula. Connect with passionate cider makers who will share their craft and unique creations. Next, make your way to the charming seaside town of Sidney by the Sea. Wander through quaint local shops, explore one of the 10 local bookstores, or take a leisurely stroll along the scenic boardwalk. For an added treat, visit Victoria Gin, one of Canada’s oldest small-batch distilleries. There, you can enjoy a tasting of their award-winning Empress Gin, a perfect way to cap off your day.
Highlights:
- Indulge in an authentic cider-tasting experience at Sea Cider Farm & Ciderhouse
- Take in the breathtaking panoramic water views of the Saanich Peninsula
- Discover the quaint seaside village of Sidney by the Sea—shop at charming boutiques or take a leisurely stroll along the scenic boardwalk
- Savor the renowned Empress Gin at Victoria Gin, one of Canada’s oldest small-batch distilleries
Island Time Tours Sidney Sip & Shores Tour is available Friday to Sunday, May 16 to September 14, 2025.
HeyYa! Carts 6-Seater Rental Victoria
Discover Victoria’s charm with a street-legal electric golf cart from HeyYa Rentals. Cruise the picturesque Inner Harbour, visit quaint shops and cafes, and take in the coastal beauty all at your own speed. It is a simple, enjoyable way to experience the best of the city’s historic and scenic highlights.
Highlights:
- Enjoy a safe, eco-friendly ride that is fully street-legal, making city cruising effortless.
- Spend the day exploring waterfronts, hidden gems, and local attractions at your own leisurely pace.
- Travel up to 80 km with a top speed of 40 km/h, perfect for full-day adventures.
Travelling to Vancouver? Click here to discover the HeyYa! Cart experience in Vancouver.
Places to stay
VICTORIA
Huntingdon Hotel & Suites
An English-style country manor located just steps away from Victoria's Inner Harbour.
Visit hotel website ❯
VICTORIA
Hotel Grand Pacific
The Hotel Grand Pacific is a well-appointed hotel, centrally located right on Victoria's Inner Harbour.
Save 15% off the best rate when booking through the BC Ferries link.
Visit hotel website ❯
VICTORIA
Chateau Victoria Hotel & Suites
The Chateau Victoria Hotel & Suites is centrally located, with easy access to experience the best of Victoria.
Save 15% off the best rate when booking through the BC Ferries link.
Visit hotel website ❯Nearby cities
Sidney
Sidney, BC is a small seaside town on Vancouver Island, known for its relaxed atmosphere and stunning waterfront. Spend the afternoon strolling along the harbour and check out all of the unique boutiques. Indulge in a treat at one of the local bakeries or enjoy fresh seafood at one of the waterfront restaurants.
Sooke
Sooke is known around Vancouver Island for its abundance of nature, making it the perfect destination for anyone looking to get outside. Hike along the coastline at East Sooke Regional Park or check out the Juan de Fuca trail. Make sure to stop by one of the local cafes in the area and check out the art studios and shops.
Brentwood Bay
If you seek relaxation, leisure or outdoor activities, then Brentwood Bay has something for you. This rapidly growing community is just a 30-minute drive north of Victoria and is a frequent stop for those wanting to visit the blooming Butchart Gardens, or couples looking to wind down at the Brentwood Bay Resort & Spa.
Cowichan Bay
The waterfront fishing village of Cowichan Bay sits at the head of a beautiful and natural harbour, which is the main focal point of the town, where shops, cafés, galleries and homes float on the water. Dine out on some of the best seafood in the area, relax in waterfront cafés, or take part in a variety of water activities.
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