A Vibrant Long Weekend in Victoria, Canada

Discover the charm of Victoria, Canada – where history, culture, and natural beauty blend seamlessly.

03 May 2023

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.

Save and get deals

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Discovering Victoria's Charm

  • Stay at the charming Abigail's Hotel, a cozy bed and breakfast nestled in a quiet corner of the city.
  • Start the day with a visit to the beautiful Butchart Gardens, featuring colorful floral displays and a serene atmosphere.
  • Wander down the streets of downtown Victoria and explore eclectic boutiques, art galleries, and book shops.
  • Take a stroll along the scenic Inner Harbour and admire the boats, seaplanes, and street performers.
  • Dine at Il Terrazzo, an intimate Italian restaurant featuring handmade pasta and award-winning wine.
Day 2

Whales and Eagles

  • Embark on a thrilling whale watching tour with Eagle Wing Tours, offering sightings of orcas, humpback whales, and bald eagles.
  • Stop for lunch at Fisherman's Wharf, a waterfront community featuring floating homes, seafood restaurants, and a resident harbor seal.
  • Explore the historic Craigdarroch Castle, a breathtaking Victorian-era mansion and national historic site.
  • Admire the views from the top of Mount Tolmie, offering panoramic vistas of the city and surrounding mountains.
  • End the day with a delicious meal at Red Fish Blue Fish, a popular seafood joint housed in a converted shipping container.
Day 3

Tea Time and Gardens

  • Indulge in a traditional afternoon tea at the Fairmont Empress Hotel, featuring delicate pastries and a wide selection of teas.
  • Visit the Royal BC Museum and immerse yourself in the vibrant history and culture of British Columbia.
  • Explore the serene surroundings of the Abkhazi Garden, a hidden gem featuring rare plants, winding paths, and a charming tearoom.
  • Take a tour of the Government House, the official residence of the Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia, and admire the stunning architecture and gardens.
  • Dine at 10 Acres Kitchen, a farm-to-table restaurant featuring fresh, locally-sourced ingredients and a cozy atmosphere.
Day 4

Outdoor Adventures

  • Gear up for an unforgettable zip-lining adventure at Adrena Line Zipline Adventure Tours, featuring scenic forest views and adrenaline-pumping thrills.
  • Head to the Victoria Butterfly Gardens and marvel at the tropical oasis featuring thousands of butterflies, exotic birds, and lush vegetation.
  • Hike the scenic trails of Goldstream Provincial Park and witness the majestic waterfalls, towering trees, and vibrant foliage.
  • Take a leisurely stroll along Dallas Road and enjoy the stunning ocean views and fresh sea breeze.
  • Celebrate your last night in Victoria with a meal at Nourish Kitchen and Cafe, a vegetarian restaurant offering delicious, healthy dishes made with locally-sourced ingredients.

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.

 Save and get deals

Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

Victoria, Canada: The Ultimate 3-Day Family Adventure

Embark on a memorable family-friendly trip to Victoria, Canada, where you can explore a wide variety of attractions and activities suitable for all ages. Discover the fascinating marine life at the renowned Royal BC Museum and explore the stunning scenery at Butchart Gardens. Enjoy a scenic bike ride along the Galloping Goose Regional Trail and create lasting memories while exploring the charming neighborhoods and shops in downtown Victoria.

Victoria, Canada: A Whimsical 2-Day Family Adventure!

Victoria, Canada offers a perfect destination for a family-friendly trip with its charming blend of history, scenic beauty, and outdoor activities. Explore the iconic Butchart Gardens, where children can immerse themselves in colorful floral displays and enjoy the magical carousel ride. Make sure to take a stroll down the Inner Harbour, where you can spot seaplanes, play in the waterfront parks, and visit the interactive Royal BC Museum to learn about local indigenous culture and the vibrant history of the city.

4 Days of Fun and Quirk in Victoria, Canada

A trip to Victoria, Canada makes for a perfect family-friendly getaway. Located on Vancouver Island, this beautiful city offers a delightful combination of stunning natural landscapes, charming gardens, and a rich history. Families can enjoy exploring the world-famous Butchart Gardens, experiencing marine wildlife on a whale watching tour, and immersing themselves in the colorful cultural scene at downtown's Inner Harbour.

The Ultimate 5 Day Victoria Adventure

A trip to Victoria, Canada can be an affordable option for those on a limited budget. Visitors can explore the city's history and culture through free walking tours and museums, enjoy the scenic views of the harbor and beaches for little or no cost, and stay in budget-friendly accommodations such as hostels or Airbnb rentals. Local markets and food trucks offer a variety of affordable dining options, and taking public transportation or walking can save money on transportation costs.