3-Day Adventure Guide to Vibrant Victoria, Canada

Discover the charm of Victoria, where old-world elegance meets natural beauty.

22 April 2023

Victoria, located in British Columbia, Canada, is a charming city with a rich history and stunning natural scenery. Visitors can explore the famous Butchart Gardens, take a whale watching tour, and stroll through the picturesque downtown area to see historic architecture and boutique shops. Victoria is perfect for a relaxing getaway filled with outdoor activities and cultural experiences.

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Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Welcome to Victoria!

  • Welcome to Victoria! A charming coastal city that's both quaint and lively. Check into Hotel Grand Pacific, situated right on the Inner Harbour, and start your adventure with these activities:
  • Take a stroll around the Inner Harbour watch boats and seaplanes come and go.
  • Visit the Royal British Columbia Museum to learn about the history of British Columbia.
  • Enjoy a late lunch at Red Fish Blue Fish, a popular spot for delicious fish tacos and fresh seafood.
  • Explore Beacon Hill Park walk through rose gardens, feed peacocks, and visit the petting zoo.
  • Head over to Fisherman's Wharf where you can watch seals in their natural habitat and grab some fish and chips for dinner.
Day 2

Adventure awaits!

  • Today is all about adventure! Experience the beauty of Victoria's coastline and wildlife with these exciting activities:
  • Start your morning with coffee at the funky hipster café, Cafe Fantastico.
  • Take a guided kayak tour and paddle along the coast spot seals, otters, eagles, and more.
  • After kayaking, grab a light lunch at the Fish Store & Oyster Bar in Cowichan Bay.
  • Visit the Butchart Gardens wander around the stunning floral displays.
  • Wrap up the day with dinner at The Keg Steakhouse and Bar enjoy delicious steaks and great views of the harbor.
Day 3

Farewell, Victoria

  • It's your last day in Victoria, make it count! Relax and enjoy the city or explore new places with these activities:
  • Grab breakfast at the Blue Fox Cafe their pancakes are a must-try!
  • Take a horse carriage tour of downtown Victoria see the city through a romantic lens.
  • Visit the Craigdarroch Castle explore the stunning architecture and learn about its rich history.
  • Grab a late lunch at Nourish this award-winning vegetarian restaurant will amaze your taste buds.
  • Walk around the quaint shops on Government Street pick up souvenirs before saying goodbye to beautiful Victoria.

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

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.

Destination

Victoria

Nestled cozily on an island, Victoria boasts an impressive number of gardens, tea shops, and tourists taking awkward selfies with Butchart Gardens as their backdrop. But don't worry, the city is also home to some less-touristy spots - like the resident sea otters who just can't seem to stop holding hands.

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Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

A Vibrant Long Weekend in Victoria, Canada

As a tourist in Victoria, Canada, visitors can explore the charming downtown area filled with boutique shops, restaurants, and historic landmarks such as the Empress Hotel and the Legislative Assembly of British Columbia. The city's picturesque scenery offers opportunities for outdoor activities such as hikes in regional parks, whale watching tours, and kayaking in the Inner Harbour. Visitors can also indulge in the city's rich culinary scene, especially its famous afternoon tea.

Fantastic Five-Day Family Fun in Victoria, Canada

A family-friendly trip to Victoria, Canada offers a perfect blend of stunning natural beauty and exciting activities for everyone. Explore the famous Butchart Gardens, where kids can marvel at the vibrant flora and explore the serene pathways. Visit the Royal BC Museum to learn about the rich history and culture of Vancouver Island, or embark on a thrilling whale-watching tour and spot majestic whales gracefully swimming in their natural habitat.

Budget-Friendly Day Trip: Charming Victoria!

Victoria, Canada is a great destination for travelers on a limited budget. With affordable accommodation options, such as hostels and budget hotels, you can stay close to popular attractions like the Royal British Columbia Museum or Butchart Gardens. For a cheap but delicious meal, head to the Victoria Public Market or Food Trucks of Victoria for local, fresh food.

A 5-day Love Affair: Victoria, Canada

A romantic trip to Victoria, Canada offers a perfect mix of picturesque beauty, an intimate ambiance, and welcoming locals. You and your partner can indulge in a ferry ride and catch a glimpse of the beautiful coastlines while relishing some freshly-caught seafood. Be sure to take a stroll through the stunning Butchart Gardens, and embrace the charming quaintness of the city's streets during your stay.