Victoria

Overview

Relax, refresh and reconnect in a world apart from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Surrender to the serene and scenic charms of Victoria, British Columbia.

Located on Vancouver Island, Victoria has a well-earned reputation as a city teeming with natural beauty. The "City of Gardens" not only has lush greenery, it’s surrounded by enchanting waters perfect for boat rides and even catching a glimpse of orca whales, seals and other local wildlife. The picturesque Inner Harbour isn't lacking in things to discover, either. Visitors can enjoy artists, street performers and other attractions right on the waterfront.

If nightlife is more of what floats your boat, there's also a vibrant side to this city rich with a diverse collection of clubs, cabarets and pubs, plus incredible fine dining options. Seafood lovers need not look any further than around the corner on the island. The catch of the day is barely off the boat when it reaches the kitchens of Victoria's many darling restaurants.

Whatever your taste or preferred pace, there's great restaurants and cafes ready to greet you after a day of soaking in the city's deeply embedded old Victorian influence and modern attractions. Speaking of which, you can learn about British Columbia's rich history at the Royal BC Museum, where you'll find exhibits and galleries galore, including a tribute to the indigenous Haida people and their breathtaking art.

At the end of the day, cap the whole experience off with a peaceful rest in a room at the famous Empress Hotel, one of Canada's most renowned hotels. Let Victoria revitalize you with a getaway that’s like nowhere else.

Victoria is a fantastic destination for:

outdoor adventure
culture and history
golf

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Destination Basics

What would a visit to Victoria be without visiting enjoying the serene beauty of the Victoria Harbour? From its picturesque architecture to the festivals and celebrations that it hosts, the Inner Harbour is a treat for folks on or off-land. Venture down the Harbour and you’ll come across Fisherman’s Wharf, a marine destination loaded with unique shops, stops and one-of-a-kind wares. You can even embark on a tour to see whales, sea lions and other wet wildlife.

Lush and lovely parks are one of Victoria’s most splendid attractions, putting the area’s natural beauty in full bloom. Stroll through the meandering paths at The Butchart Gardens, 55 acres of floral finery that’s a certified National Historic Site of Canada. Or if you prefer fluttering to flowers, Butterfly Gardens can provide you with an up-close experience featuring exotic butterflies, tropical ducks, flamingos and rare birds.

Shaped by a rich history, there’s centuries of culture and influence that’s made Victoria what it is today. You can experience it for yourself too. Take a self-guided tour of the exquisite 1890s mansion Craigdarroch Castle or step foot into Canada’s oldest Chinatown through the Gate of Harmonious Interest. At the Royal B.C. Museum, learn about the Natural and Human History of British Columbia and its First Peoples.

There’s a lot of flavour packed into Victoria. In fact, no city in Canada has more restaurants per capita. That means endless opportunities to visit world class dining establishments and taste fresh local produce, regional delights and meals from chefs of all backgrounds. Transform your outing into a full-on experience by taking High Tea in true Victorian style or by sampling what the nearby vineyards have to offer.

Talk a walk on the mild side. Victoria has some of the most moderate weather in Canada. The city boasts an annual average temperature of 14 C, falling below zero on average only twice a year. Overall, temperatures are rarely too hot or too cold. With its mild weather and staycation feel, visitors have been enticed to put down roots even after a short stay in this agreeable climate.

Packing light almost always works when travelling to Victoria. If you’re headed here in December, just be sure to pack an umbrella. December is this island’s rainiest month. July, on the other hand, is the driest in Canada.