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

Fall in Love with Victoria: 3-Day Romantic Getaway

Victoria, Canada is the perfect destination for a romantic getaway with its picturesque coastal beauty and charming atmosphere. Visitors can stroll through the historic streets and indulge in delectable local cuisine before taking a horse-drawn carriage ride through the city. A romantic sunset cruise to admire the stunning views of the Pacific coastline will cap off a perfect trip.

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.

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.