Budget-Friendly Day Trip: Charming Victoria!

Experience the beauty of Victoria without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

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.

Day trip plan

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Day

Charming Victoria, on a budget!

  • Start your day off with a walk around the picturesque Inner Harbour, admiring the colorful boats and historic buildings.
  • Visit the Royal BC Museum to learn about the fascinating history of British Columbia. Entrance fee is around $20, but worth it!
  • Stop for a lunch break at Red Fish Blue Fish, a popular seafood spot serving delicious and affordable fish tacos and chowder.
  • Take a free guided tour of the BC Legislature Building, one of Victoria's most iconic landmarks.
  • Hop on a local bus (fare is $2.50) and head to Beacon Hill Park for a stroll through beautiful gardens, ponds, and even a petting zoo.
  • End the day with a walk along Dallas Road, where you can enjoy stunning ocean views and watch the sunset.
  • Bonus tip: If you're into beer, make sure to stop by Phillips Brewing & Malting Co. for a brewery tour and some samples!

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.

More travel plans

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.

3-Day Adventure Guide to Vibrant Victoria, Canada

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.

A Flavorful Long Weekend in Victoria, Canada

Embark on a romantic getaway to Victoria, Canada where you'll find plenty of enchanting attractions punctuated with historic charm. Indulge in a horse-drawn carriage ride through the old city, take in the panoramic views from the top of the twinkling Victoria bluffs, and relax with a luxurious spa treatment before retiring to your cozy retreat. Savor intimate moments amidst this picturesque Canadian paradise while enjoying the city's delightful culinary scene and wonder-filled ambiance.

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.