Nestled on the southern tip of Vancouver Island, picturesque Victoria consistently charms visitors with a blend of old-world heritage and new-world urbanity set against the stunning backdrop of the Pacific Ocean. Named after Queen Victoria of the United Kingdom, the city resonates with a British colonial feel, evident in its architecture, traditions, and, if you’re lucky, a glimpse of the iconic red double-decker buses.
If you’re plotting your next adventure and yearning for a destination that offers a bit of everything, look no further than Victoria. From stunning gardens and grand landmarks to mouthwatering seafood and outdoor escapades, this Canadian gem has it all. In this comprehensive guide, you’ll uncover the quintessential experiences that Victoria has to offer, inviting you to make the most of your island getaway.
Must-Visit Attractions in Victoria
The Royal BC Museum
Stepping into the Royal BC Museum is like voyaging through time. This massive natural and human history museum weaves a narrative of British Columbia’s past and present with immersive exhibitions that are frequently updated. From life-sized dioramas of indigenous life to captivating artifacts from around the world, this museum is a must-see for both casual visitors and history buffs alike. Don’t miss out on the museum’s many award-winning exhibits such as the First People’s Gallery and the Modern History Gallery, which offers a glimpse into the province’s contemporary life.
Beacon Hill Park
A verdant oasis in the heart of the city, Beacon Hill Park is a Victorian gem favored by locals and travelers for its lush landscapes, ornamental gardens, and a multitude of recreational activities. Stroll the peacock-lined pathways, admire the sundial garden, or catch a performance at the Cameron Bandshell. The park is also home to many species of native and exotic animals, including friendly squirrels and the occasional resident marmot.
Butchart Gardens
A horticultural wonderland that needs no introduction, Butchart Gardens is an urban escape for nature lovers and horticulturists. Spread across 55 acres, the gardens are a year-round canvas of fragrant flora and myriad colors, each season bringing forth a different spectacle. Tip: Time your visit to coincide with the evening summer concerts, when the gardens are aglow with the warm hues of the night.
Inner Harbour and Parliament Buildings
Life in Victoria revolves around its Inner Harbour, a bustling waterway flanked by the stately Empress Hotel and the provincial Parliament Buildings. Wander the bustling harborside promenade, take a harbor ferry tour, or savour a meal at a waterfront patio with a view of the architectural splendour. If you’re here at the right time, the ‘Symphony Splash,’ an event that features a live orchestra on a barge, culminates with an impressive fireworks display right over the water.
Craigdarroch Castle
A short trip from downtown is the imposing Craigdarroch Castle, a National Historic Site that is as intriguing as it is beautiful. Built by the coal baron Robert Dunsmuir who earned his fortune from Vancouver Island coal, the Castle is a stunning example of the Romanesque Revival architecture, made with the most advanced technologies of the time. The interior is lavishly furnished in the Victorian style, offering a peak into the opulent life of the Dunsmuir family.
Hidden Gems
For those seeking to avoid the tourist hotspots, Victoria has a trove of lesser-known treasures that promise a more intimate experience.
Explore Fernwood
A short walk from downtown reveals the neighborhood of Fernwood, with its Victorian-era homes, hip cafes, and the city’s oldest community garden. It’s a place where you can mingle with the locals and discover artisanal products at the popular Fernwood Market.
Abkhazi Garden
Experience a slice of heritage and beauty at Abkhazi Garden, a National Historic Site with a story as enchanting as its landscape. Created by Prince and Princess Abkhazi in the 1940s, this garden is an unmissable retreat for reflection and an exploration of its unique flora.
Chinatown
Victoria’s historic Chinatown is believed to be the oldest in Canada and the second oldest in North America after San Francisco. Wandering these vibrant streets, you’ll find an array of traditional Chinese apothecaries, red-lamped restaurants, and the bustling Fan Tan Alley, which comes alive in the evenings with the glow of paper lanterns.
Victoria’s Culinary Scene
Eat at Fisherman’s Wharf
This floating seafood hub is a local favorite, known for its casual eateries and vibrant scenic appeal. Indulge in fish and chips, fresh oysters, or a mouthwatering seafood chowder while enjoying the panorama of fishing boats and houseboats bobbing in the clear waters.
High Tea at the Empress
For a quintessential Victorian experience, treat yourself to the world-renowned high tea at the Fairmont Empress Hotel. Sip on a selection of aromatic teas while nibbling on freshly baked scones, delicate finger sandwiches, and delectable pastries amidst an ambiance accented by live piano music.
Farm-to-Fork Dining
Victoria’s commitment to sustainability and the slow food movement is palpable in its farm-to-fork dining scene. Enjoy a meal at one of the many restaurants that source their ingredients from local farmers and fishermen, offering menus that are not just delicious, but also in harmony with the environment.
Outdoor Activities
Kayak through the Gorge
For a unique perspective of Victoria, rent a kayak and paddle through the Gorge Waterway. This calm and scenic body of water is an ideal spot for beginners and experienced kayakers alike, offering views of lush coastal rainforest and the city skyline.
Hike East Sooke Park
A 45-minute drive from the city center unveils the rugged beauty of East Sooke Park. Lace up your hiking boots and explore the network of trails that meander through ancient forests, rocky coastlines, and secluded beaches. Keep an eye out for the diverse wildlife, including eagles, seals, and possibly even a passing pod of orcas.
Cycle the Galloping Goose Trail
For a more leisurely outdoor excursion, rent a bike and pedal along the Galloping Goose Trail. This 55-kilometer multi-use trail takes you through some of the region’s most splendid landscapes, from the urban heart of Victoria to the teeming woods of the suburban outlands.
Victoria for History Buffs
Fort Rodd Hill and Fisgard Lighthouse National Historic Sites
Uncover the military past of Victoria at Fort Rodd Hill, a coastal artillery fort built in the late 19th century to defend the Esquimalt Naval Base. Nearby, Fisgard Lighthouse, the first lighthouse on the West Coast of Canada, stands as a sentinel against treacherous waters.
Bastion Square
This charming square in the heart of downtown Victoria is a historic precinct filled with tales of the gold rush and colonial resurgence. Paved with cobblestones and bordered by heritage buildings, today it hosts a vibrant market and is a prime spot for people watching and soaking up the city’s history.
Planning Your Visit
Getting There
Victoria is accessible via BC Ferries from the mainland, including a direct route from Vancouver, or by flying into Victoria International Airport.
Where to Stay
With a range of accommodations from boutique hotels to bed and breakfasts, there’s no shortage of options to suit every preference and budget. Consider staying in the heart of downtown or opting for a tranquil retreat in the city’s outskirts.
Best Times to Visit
The summer months of June through August bring warm weather and an array of festivals and outdoor activities. However, shoulder seasons like spring offer blooming gardens, and autumn provides stunning fall foliage without the crowds.
Victoria is a city that beckons you to explore, to savor, and to connect with its rich cultural and natural tapestries. Whether you find yourself marveling at architectural grandeur in the heart of downtown, communing with nature in its vast parklands, or simply relaxing by the sparkling Inner Harbour, there’s a certain magic that Victoria weaves into the memories of its visitors. Plan your itinerary, pack your bags, and set sail for this Pacific Northwest paradise that promises an odyssey of discovery. There’s no better time than now to experience Victoria, where every corner reveals a new facet of this historic and scenic wonderland.
Start making your travel plans today. Victoria awaits.