Victoria, Canada: 5 Days of Fun & Adventure

Experience the charm of Victoria, from stunning gardens to whale watching adventures.

22 April 2023

Visiting Victoria, Canada is a true treat for any tourist looking to explore the beautiful Canadian west coast. With a bustling downtown area filled with historic landmarks and modern amenities, there's plenty to see and do here. Take in the stunning beauty of the famous Butchart Gardens, sample delicious local cuisine, and soak up the rich history and culture of this charming city.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Arrival and Getting Acquainted

  • Check into the Magnolia Hotel & Spa, a cozy and elegant boutique hotel.
  • Walk around the Inner Harbour and appreciate the scenic views of the boats and the Empress Hotel.
  • Visit Miniature World, a quirky museum showcasing tiny dioramas of historic scenes and fantasy worlds.
  • Have dinner at The Flying Pig, a restaurant known for its delicious comfort food and rustic ambiance.
  • Walk through downtown Victoria and stumble upon hidden gems, like quirky shops and street performers.
Day 2

Gardens, Tea, and History

  • Take a bus to Butchart Gardens, a stunning floral paradise filled with colorful flowers and immaculate landscaping.
  • Have high tea at the gardens' stunning restaurant and embrace the quintessential English tradition.
  • Go back in history by visiting the Royal BC Museum and uncover the past through interactive exhibits and life-sized recreations.
  • Walk around the historic district of Bastion Square and admire the brick and stone buildings, including the oldest pub in British Columbia.
  • Have dinner at Il Terrazzo, an Italian restaurant with a romantic ambiance.
Day 3

Whales and Beaches

  • Embark on a whale-watching tour from the Inner Harbour and spot orcas, humpback whales, seals, and more.
  • Have lunch at Fisherman's Wharf, a lively community of floating houses and seafood stalls.
  • Chill at Willows Beach, a serene and picturesque spot to sunbathe, swim or stroll along.
  • Visit the Craigdarroch Castle, an impressive mansion built by a Scottish coal magnate in the late 1800s with breathtaking views of the city.
  • Have dinner at the Blue Fox Cafe, a local favorite for its wholesome and creative breakfast dishes.
Day 4

Mountains and Views

  • Take a scenic drive up to Mount Douglas Park, a hilltop park with panoramic views of Victoria and its surroundings.
  • Hike up to Mount Finlayson in Goldstream Provincial Park, an easy and rewarding trail with stunning views at the top.
  • Go back in time and visit Fort Rodd Hill, a military fortress built in the 19th century with a lighthouse and cannons.
  • Have dinner at 10 Acres Kitchen, a farm-to-table restaurant with local organic cuisine and an inviting atmosphere.
  • Sip on craft beers at the Driftwood Brewery, a craft brewery with a laid-back vibe and creative brews.
Day 5

Culture and Farewell

  • Visit Chinatown, the oldest in Canada and the second oldest in North America, filled with traditional Chinese shops and eateries.
  • Explore the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria, showcasing works by local and international artists in a peaceful setting.
  • Have lunch at Rebar, a vegetarian and organic restaurant with a diverse and colorful menu.
  • Walk along the Gorge Waterway, a scenic waterway that connects to the Inner Harbour and offers views of wildlife and kayakers.
  • Bid farewell to Victoria at the Magnolia Hotel & Spa, a perfect end to a lovely stay.

Length of stay

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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

4 Days, 1 Budget: Explore Fun-Filled Victoria

Victoria, Canada is an ideal destination for those who want to travel on a limited budget. Visitors can explore the city's beautiful and historic attractions, such as the Royal BC Museum and the Craigdarroch Castle, on foot. Local parks, such as Beacon Hill Park, are free to enter and offer stunning views of the city's natural beauty.

Victoria on a Budget: A 2-Day Adventure

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.

Victoria, Canada: A Fun-filled 3 Day Adventure

Explore the natural beauty of Victoria, Canada by visiting its lush gardens, world-renowned parks, and scenic landscapes on a limited budget. Discover the unique culture of the city by exploring museums, galleries, and historical landmarks that showcase its rich history and heritage. Enjoy budget-friendly dining options by trying out local street food or dining in smaller cafes and restaurants to fully enjoy your trip without breaking the bank.

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.