Victoria is located on Vancouver Island in British Columbia, Canada. This coastal city is known for its stunning scenery and mild climate, making it a popular destination for travelers looking to explore the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest.
As the map below indicates, Victoria sits to the west of mainland British Columbia, with the city of Vancouver to the north and Seattle, Washington, to the southeast.
HOW TO GET TO VICTORIA?
Option 1: FLY DIRECTLY TO VICTORIA
Victoria International Airport (YYJ) offers direct flights from several major cities. While this is the most convenient option, ticket prices can be higher, especially during peak travel seasons.
You can also take a sea plane from Seattle or from many Canadian cities! See Harbour Air.
Option 2: Travel via Vancouver + FERRY
This is a popular route for travelers who want to explore both Vancouver and Victoria.
Here's a step-by-step guide to make your journey smooth and cost-effective:
Fly to Vancouver International Airport (YVR): Once you arrive in Vancouver, you'll need to get to the ferry terminal.
Transportation to Tsawwassen Ferry Terminal: The ferry terminal is about 22 miles from the airport. Options include:
Shuttle: The shuttle service is economical, costing about $3-4 per person. It includes a bus and train ride to reach the ferry terminal, making it ideal if you're traveling light.
Uber/Taxi: A taxi ride can be costly, close to $100 during peak hours. However, it is more direct and convenient if you have a lot of luggage.
BC Ferry from Tsawwassen Terminal to Swartz Bay: Tickets for the ferry are around $18 per person. The journey takes about 90 minutes, with amenities like shops, food courts, and scenic views on board. Be prepared for potential weather-related delays.
Arrival in Victoria: Once you arrive at Swartz Bay in Victoria, you might need a ride to your accommodation.
Alternative: BC Ferries Connector: For a seamless experience, consider the BC Ferries Connector, which offers a direct service from downtown Vancouver to downtown Victoria. It includes a coach ride and ferry transfer, allowing you to enjoy the scenic Gulf Islands.
TOP THINGS TO DO IN VICTORIA, BC
If you have limited time in Victoria, here are some must-visit attractions that showcase the city's charm:
Butchart Gardens
Located in Brentwood Bay, Butchart Gardens is a floral wonderland that has been designated a National Historic Site of Canada. The gardens feature different themed areas, including Italian, Rose, Japanese, and Mediterranean gardens. Whether you visit during spring or for the Winter 12 Days of Christmas display, the sight is nothing short of magical.
Dallas Road and Beacon Hill Park
Walk along Dallas Road, a scenic oceanfront pathway with spectacular views of the Strait of Juan de Fuca. Make sure to explore Beacon Hill Park, where you'll find beautifully curated flower beds, spaces for kids and dogs to play, and peaceful picnic spots.
Shopping in Downtown Victoria
Walking and shopping around downtown Victoria can be fun. Visit Government Street and Johnson Street for a mix of high-end boutiques and quirky local shops.
Don’t miss Trounce Alley for a quieter, unique shopping experience.
Popular stops include:
Lululemon: For activewear
Lush: Handmade cosmetics
Nezza Naturals: Organic bath products
Murchie's Tea & Coffee: Canada's oldest tea company, perfect for gift shopping
Mountain Equipment Company: Known for outdoor gear, including Blundstone shoes
Shop native art by indigenous artists: Look for the Native Northwest brand for souvenirs. We bought and were also gifted native art from Haidagwaii. Just beautiful stuff!
Fan Tan Alley in Chinatown
Victoria has a vibrant Chinatown—the oldest in Canada and second oldest in North America. It’s a lively district filled with history and culture!
Explore Fan Tan Alley, the narrowest street in Canada, filled with unique stores and steeped in history as a former gambling district. This hidden gem offers an authentic experience in Victoria’s Chinatown.
Water-Based Activities
Victoria’s coastal setting makes it ideal for water adventures.
Some recommendations include:
Boat Tours: The Gorge Tour (60 minutes) or Harbour Tour (45 minutes) are great for adults and families.
Hot Tub Boat Rentals: A fun and relaxing way to explore the Upper Harbor, although weather cancellations are possible.
Kayaking or Stand-Up Paddleboarding: Gonzales Beach and Willows Beach are popular spots for these activities.
Whale Watching: Don’t miss the opportunity to see orcas and other marine life in their natural habitat.
VEGETARIAN-FRIENDLY RESTAURANTS IN VICTORIA
Victoria has a variety of options for those looking for vegetarian and vegan dining experiences:
Pagliacci’s
A cozy Italian spot famous for its comfort food, live music, and welcoming atmosphere. Arrive early as there’s often a line due to its popularity.
Rebar Modern Food
A beloved vegetarian and vegan restaurant with an extensive menu of soups, salads, and creative brunch dishes. The basil vinaigrette and peanut-roasted yam soup are unforgettable.
Vista 18
This fancy rooftop restaurant at Chateau Victoria Hotel offers stunning views and a flexible menu. While not strictly vegetarian, they cater to dietary preferences.
The Mantra
For authentic Indian flavors, head to The Mantra. It offers a wide selection of vegan and vegetarian dishes that taste like traditional home-cooked meals.
Pho Vy
A no-frills Vietnamese restaurant with a vegetarian section on its menu. The veggie spring rolls and Pho Veggie are favorites.
A few more restaurants that we could not try out but are recommended by locals are 10 Acres, a farm-to-table spot where vegetarian options include a pasta and pizza and Sookjai, a popular Thai restaurant that offers a vegetarian menu.
Local Specialties to Try in Victoria
While you're in Victoria, immerse yourself in local flavors by trying these:
Wine Tasting
Sample wines from British Columbia’s Okanagan Valley, known for its high-quality vineyards. Recommended wineries include:
Church and State
Summerhill Pyramid Winery (organic wine)
Burrowing Owl Vineyards
Craft Beer
Victoria’s local breweries are renowned for their innovative beers:
Driftwood Brewing
Philips Brewing Company
Hoyne Brewing Co.
Local Gin
Explore unique gins like:
Empress Gin: Famous for its striking indigo color.
Victoria Gin: Known for its full-bodied flavor.
Sheringham Distillery: A small-batch distillery with award-winning gins.
Tea and Ice Cream
Murchie's Tea: A must-visit for tea lovers, with a range of unique blends.
Parachute Ice Cream: Crafted with care and served in returnable glass jars.
Coffee
Habit Coffee: Visit either their Atrium or Chinatown location. Their roasting partner is Bows & Arrows, and we tried the Irma Pacheco coffee from Guatemala, which was wonderful.
Two other coffee shops and roasters that came well recommended were Discovery Coffee (many locations, and you will also find their single-origin and coffee blends in local grocery stores) and Caffe Fantastico on Kings Road.
COCKTAILS
When in Victoria, these two are great options for cocktails.
Fairmont Empress Hotel’s Q Bar: Try the locally crafted Empress 1908 Gin or their award-winning martinis.
Vista 18: Great cocktails, rooftop with views, and a date-night ambiance.
MORE to explore in victoria
If you have extra time, consider these activities:
Parliament House: Illuminated at night with guided tours available.
Government House Gardens: A perfect spot to enjoy seasonal blooms.
Fairmont Empress Hotel: Known for its elegant afternoon tea ($$$).
Fisherman’s Wharf: A charming area with floating houses and vibrant boats.
Songhees Walkway: A picturesque route with views of the Olympic Mountains. Makes for a good stroll or a run to see ferries, kayakers and float planes!
Merridale Cidery: Sample local cider at this distillery near Victoria.