• Countries
• Canada
• Victoria

The Ultimate 5 Day Victoria Adventure

Experience the charm and beauty of Victoria without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

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.

Travel plan

• Check into Hotel Zed, a retro-themed budget hotel that offers bike rentals, complimentary coffee, and a ping-pong lounge.
• Stroll along the Inner Harbour and admire the historic buildings, the boats, and the Buskers Festival performances.
• Visit the Royal BC Museum and learn about the First Nations, the gold rush, and the dinosaurs of British Columbia.
• Have a late lunch at Rebar Modern Food, a vegetarian restaurant that serves fresh and flavorful salads, soups, and sandwiches.
• Rent a bicycle from The Pedaler and take a guided tour of the city's hidden gems, such as the Craigdarroch Castle and the Fairfield neighborhood.

• Take a ferry from the Inner Harbour to the charming town of Sidney, on Vancouver Island, and admire the ocean views.
• Rent a kayak from Pacifica Paddle Sports and explore the Gulf Islands National Park Reserve, where you might spot seals, otters, or eagles.
• Have a picnic lunch on the beach, or try the fish and chips at Fish on Fifth, a local seafood joint.
• Visit Butchart Gardens, a magnificent display of flowers, fountains, and sculptures that will delight your senses.
• Return to Victoria in time for dinner at Spinnakers Gastro Brewpub, a waterfront spot that pairs craft beers with seasonal dishes.

• Drive or take a bus to the Goldstream Provincial Park, where you can hike through the majestic old-growth forest and see the salmon run in the fall.
• Have a snack at the Log Cabin Café, a rustic eatery that serves hearty soups, sandwiches, and pies.
• Continue to the Sooke Potholes, a series of crystal-clear pools and waterfalls that are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or rock jumping.
• On the way back, stop at the Cowichan Bay to buy some artisanal cheese, wine, or chocolate for later.
• Have an early dinner at John's Place, a funky diner that offers generous portions of comfort food and a colorful atmosphere.

• Take a guided tour of Chinatown, the oldest in Canada, and learn about the history, the architecture, and the traditions of the Chinese community.
• Visit the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria, and see the contemporary and classic works of local and international artists.
• Have a light lunch at La Taquisa, a taqueria that serves authentic Mexican street food, such as tacos, burritos, and horchata.
• Attend a theatre performance at the Belfry Theatre, a vibrant venue that showcases Canadian plays and experimental works.
• End the day with drinks at the Sticky Wicket Pub, a sports bar that also has a rooftop patio, live music, and bowling.

• Sleep in and enjoy the hotel amenities, such as the water slide, the sauna, or the vinyl collection.
• Have a leisurely brunch at Jam Café, a popular spot that offers delicious eggs benedict, pancakes, and waffles.
• Walk around the Fan Tan Alley, the narrowest street in Canada, and browse the quirky shops, such as the Chinatown Trading Company or the Rook and Rose.
• Visit the Emily Carr House, the childhood home of the famous artist, and admire the artifacts, the artwork, and the garden.
• Depart with fond memories of Victoria and promises to return.