Victoria on a Budget: A 2-Day Adventure
Experience the charm of Victoria without breaking the bank.
22 June 2023
Victoria, Canada is a great choice for those on a limited budget looking to explore the beautiful scenery, historic architecture, and rich culture of the city. With a variety of low-priced accommodations, affordable dining options, and free or low-cost activities such as visiting the Royal BC Museum and exploring the stunning Butchart Gardens, it's possible to have an enjoyable and budget-friendly trip to Victoria. Additionally, taking advantage of public transportation like buses or walking around the downtown area can help cut down on costs.
Travel plan
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- Stay at the Ocean Island Inn Backpackers Suites, affordable with a great atmosphere
- Start with a hearty breakfast at Jam Cafe, known for their indulgent dishes like pulled pork pancakes
- Visit the Royal BC Museum where you can learn about the province's natural history and First Nations culture
- Take a stroll through the picturesque Inner Harbour and see the iconic Empress Hotel
- Head to Fisherman's Wharf for lunch and enjoy fish and chips or the famous grilled cheese boat
- End the day with a sunset walk through Beacon Hill Park and check out the peacocks and stunning views of the ocean
- Grab a quick breakfast at the Blue Fox Cafe before heading out for the day
- Make your way to Butchart Gardens, where you can marvel at the incredible floral displays
- Go for a hike at Gowlland Tod Provincial Park with scenic views of the Saanich Inlet and neighboring Gulf Islands
- Reward yourself with a lunch at Red Fish Blue Fish, a popular seafood stand with a prime location on the waterfront
- Rent a bike from The Pedaler and explore the city's neighborhoods and scenic bike paths
- Finish your day with happy hour at Canoe Brewpub, with great views of the Inner Harbour and locally brewed craft beer
- Victoria may be a small city, but it packs a big punch with its charm, history, and natural beauty. Whether you're on a tight budget or not, there are plenty of affordable options for accommodations, food, and activities. So pack your bags, grab your passport, and get ready for an adventure in one of Canada's best-kept secrets.
Length of stay
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How to get there
Plane
The best way to get to Victoria by plane is to fly into Victoria International Airport (YYJ) from major airports in Canada or the United States. Direct flights are available from cities such as Vancouver, Calgary, Seattle, and San Francisco.
Car
If you prefer to drive, you can take the ferry to Vancouver Island, then drive to Victoria. The ferry ride is about 1.5 hours from Vancouver to Swartz Bay, and then it takes about 30 minutes to drive from Swartz Bay to downtown Victoria. Alternatively, you can also drive from Seattle to Victoria, which takes about 3-4 hours.
Train
There is no direct train to Victoria, but you can take a train from Vancouver to Swartz Bay, which is a ferry terminal that connects to Victoria. The train ride from Vancouver to Swartz Bay takes about 3 hours, and then you can take a 35-minute ferry ride to Victoria.
Boat
One of the most scenic ways to get to Victoria is by taking a boat from Seattle or Vancouver. You can take the Victoria Clipper from Seattle to Victoria, which is a high-speed catamaran that takes about 2.5 hours. You can also take the ferry from Vancouver to Victoria, which is a scenic 1.5-hour ride through the Strait of Georgia.
Bus
Taking a bus to Victoria is convenient and affordable. The best option is to take a coach bus from Vancouver or Seattle to Victoria. The bus ride from Vancouver to Victoria takes about 4-5 hours, while Seattle to Victoria takes longer at around 6-7 hours. You can take the bus from Pacific Central Station in Vancouver, or from downtown Seattle.