Published on December 13, 2023 · Written by Zack Fenech
A short ferry ride from British Columbia’s shores will take you to the wonders of Vancouver Island, where you’ll find the marvellous capital of Victoria.
Unlike Vancouver, Victoria is a smaller city that offers an exciting mix of the West Coast’s natural beauty and picturesque views of everything Canada has to offer.
In this Victoria Travel Guide, we’ll explore everything you’ll need to know about Victoria, including essential things to know, how to get there, how to get around, and can’t-miss places to visit, as well as things to eat and drink. For more destinations in the country, check out our Canada travel guide.
Essential Things to Know Before Visiting: Victoria Travel Guide
Safety: Be sure to get travel insurance before your trip. Victoria is a safe place to visit. Take regular precautions and avoid walking alone at night, especially if you’re a female traveller.
Money and Tipping: Victoria is part of Canada and uses the Canadian Dollar (CAD). It can be a little expensive to visit, as the remote islands rely on importing many goods. Tipping is expected and can start at 15% at various restaurants.
Weather: Rainy in winter and warm and dry in summer. Like other places in the Pacific Northwest, rain is not uncommon, so bring a rain jacket.
Transportation in Victoria, British Columbia
Use Skyscanner to find and compare the best flights to Victoria. The city is a small island with many remote towns and points of interest, making it an ideal place for day trips. You will likely benefit from renting a car, though getting around the city itself doesn’t require one, as public transportation is efficient.
Taking the Ferry to Victoria
You can take the ferry from Vancouver Tsawwassen to Victoria Swartz Bay. The ferry costs around $20 CAD per visitor, with special pricing for seniors and children under 12. The ferry ride is around an hour and a half. Upon arriving in Victoria, you’ll need to take a public transit bus — about an hour long — to the downtown core.
Public Transportation and Victoria Buses
Victoria has a reliable and accessible public transportation system. If you want to visit other parts of the island, you can book tickets through the IslandLink Bus website, which will take you to most cities on the island.
Places to Visit and Things to Do in Victoria, BC
Victoria is a beautiful place for people who want to enjoy the outdoors while learning about Canada’s history and culture.
1. Legislative Assembly of British Columbia
A beautiful government building and likely one of the first points of interest you’ll visit in Victoria. Situated downtown and facing the beautiful harbour of James Bay, it is surrounded by greenery and historical information about Canada’s inception and the Indigenous population who lived there.
2. Beacon Hill Park
One of the most beautiful and fun parks to explore in Victoria. Unique wildlife, calming settings, and public art installations. Also home to the Mile Zero Monument, where you can learn more about the great accomplishments of Terry Fox and Steve Fonyo.
3. Victoria Chinatown
Victoria’s Chinatown is smaller and more quaint than Vancouver’s, but just as exciting, with beautiful shops and restaurants serving cuisines from across East Asia.
4. Victoria Public Market
An indoor market offering a variety of booths selling goods from Victoria, British Columbia, and beyond. Fresh food, coffee, and a variety of restaurants.
5. Mount Douglas
A beautiful hiking destination outside the city, reachable via public transit. Many trails with varying difficulty levels. Upon reaching the top, hikers are rewarded with a panoramic view of the city that is truly picturesque.
Food and Drink to Try in Victoria
1. Seafood
Since Victoria is an island, it only makes sense that the seafood scene is top-notch. Enjoy Dungeness crab, West Coast oysters, and fish and chips at kiosks and restaurants across Victoria, particularly around the harbour.
2. Asian Cuisine
Like Vancouver, Victoria has a thriving Asian community that serves fantastic cuisine, with Japanese, Chinese, Korean, and other Eastern restaurants found around the island.
3. The Shaft
A mixed drink native to Victoria, consisting of a shooter full of ice mixed with vodka, Irish cream, coffee liquéur, and cold-brewed coffee. A delicious treat for those looking to pack an extra punch of energy on their late-night bar crawl.
Final Thoughts: Visit Victoria, BC
For the best deals on places to stay, book hotels online ahead of your visit. Victoria is a beautiful city on a beautiful island, and certainly worth including in your trip to Vancouver or Canada, if possible. A short ferry ride will reveal some of Canada’s most beautiful scenery and charm.