Set on the finish of the largely wild Vancouver Island, Victoria is a superb metropolis on Canada’s west coast. Recognized for the abundance of out of doors actions and gorgeous Victorian structure, it’s a spot the place colonial historical past is intertwined with indigenous tradition. I lived in Victoria, BC, for a 12 months and acquired to discover all the good issues that it has to supply. These are all my private suggestions.
Attend excessive tea for brunch after which head to Chinatown for dinner whereas stopping by the harbor to look at seals and gigantic cruisers. Victoria is a metropolis that may supply one thing to everybody as a result of it has all of it, from wonderful artwork galleries to thrilling ziplines and mountain climbing trails.
![Top Thing to do in Victoria BC](https://theplanetd.com/images/Top-Thing-to-do-in-Victoria-BC.jpg)
Whether or not you’re on the town for a day or per week, you gained’t wrestle to fill your itinerary with enjoyable actions. With my insider information, I compiled this information of the highest issues to do in Victoria BC that can aid you put collectively one of the best itinerary!
Greatest Issues To Do In Victoria BC
![Best Thing To Do In Victoria BC](https://theplanetd.com/images/Best-Things-To-Do-In-Victoria-BC.jpg)
Victoria BC is thought for its expansive botanical gardens, whale-watching excursions, and huge parks. Nearly all of town’s finest points of interest are outdoor, making it a prime vacation spot for vacationers who love exploring off the crushed path.
However don’t let that idiot you; Victoria additionally presents an infinite quantity of issues to do indoors, together with a haunted manor with a pinball machine and a number of the finest museums in British Columbia.
Better of Victoria BC Fast Information
- Should See: Chinatown, Royal BC Museum, Craigdarroch Fort, Beacon Hill Park, Parliament Buildings, Afternoon Tea
- The place To Keep: Ocean Island Inn, Fairmont Empress, The Oak Bay Seashore Resort
- Enjoyable To Do: Whale Watching, Zipline Excursions, Mount Douglas, Boat Excursions, Kayaking
- Day Journeys: Fort Rodd Hill, Thetis Lake Park, Malahat SkyWalk
- Should-Strive Meals: Wild Salmon, Dungeness Crab, Bannock Bread, Chinese language meals
1. Guided Strolling Tour of Victoria
![Things to do in Victoria BC Walking Tour](https://theplanetd.com/images/Things-to-do-in-Victoria-BC-Walking-Tour.jpg)
Victoria is a beautiful metropolis with many gorgeous buildings. In fact, if it’s your first go to, you gained’t be accustomed to the aim of lots of these buildings, and also you would possibly miss out on some gems which might be open for guests.
Prepare a guided tour with an area, and also you’ll not solely be taken to all one of the best spots within the metropolis but in addition be taught the historical past behind a few of its finest architectural gems. Most strolling excursions of Victoria cowl town’s finest neighborhoods and streets, together with the well-known Authorities Avenue and Fan Tan Alley.
My favourite strolling excursions of Victoria additionally mean you can uncover town’s culinary scene. Strolling across the metropolis will burn fairly a number of energy, and what higher option to make up for them than to take pleasure in Victoria’s specialties in its finest eating places?
Sensible Data
Strolling excursions of Victoria normally take 2-3 hours and price $60-100 per participant.
2. Royal BC Museum
![Things to do in Victoria BC Royal BC Museum](https://theplanetd.com/images/Things-to-do-in-Victoria-BC-Royal-BC-Museum.jpg)
The Royal BC Museum is Victoria’s finest and hottest museum. You probably have time to go to just one museum or gallery when you’re within the metropolis, make it this one. It has three most important galleries: Pure Historical past, the First Peoples Gallery, and Changing into BC.
Come right here to be taught in regards to the indigenous individuals of British Columbia, in addition to in regards to the state’s normal historical past and the way it developed over time. Youthful guests usually tend to benefit from the Pure Historical past gallery, which options dinosaur skeletons and fashions of assorted animals.
Plan to spend no less than a few hours at this museum, and that’s should you’re going to hurry by the place. For those who take your time with every exhibit, the go to can simply final 3-4 hours. Additionally, I have to point out that the museum has a pleasant IMAX theater, the place you possibly can attend screenings of nature documentaries in addition to blockbuster movies.
Sensible Data
The Royal BC Museum is open every day from 10 AM to five PM. Admission is $18 for adults, and attending IMAX screenings is an additional $12.
3. Tour The Unbelievable Craigdarroch Fort
![Things to do in Victoria BC Craigdarroch Castle](https://theplanetd.com/images/Things-to-do-in-Victoria-BC-Craigdarroch-Castle.jpg)
Craigdarroch Fort is without doubt one of the prettiest Victorian buildings in Victoria and a very talked-about historic landmark. It was initially constructed by Robert Dunsmuir, a coal magnate, through the late nineteenth century.
Go to the fort and go on a guided tour of the premises to see opulent interval furnishings, lovely decorations, and wonderful stained-glass home windows. The constructing is magnificent each inside and outside, and it’s top-of-the-line places for structure excursions in Victoria.
The fort is located in Rockland, roughly a 30-minute stroll (or 10-minute bike trip) from Downtown Victoria.
Sensible Data
Craigdarroch Fort is open for excursions Wednesday by Sunday, from 10 AM to 4 PM. Guided excursions are $20.60 for adults, and tickets could be purchased on-line or on the entrance.
4. Hire A Bicycle
![Things to do in Victoria BC Rent a Bicycle](https://theplanetd.com/images/Things-to-do-in-Victoria-BC-Rent-A-Bicycle.jpg)
Victoria BC is called Canada’s biking capital, and it’s one of the bike-friendly cities within the Pacific Northwest. Bike leases can be found all through the city, and lots of lodging supply them to their friends.
Biking round Victoria is not only nice for getting across the city rapidly for little or no cash, but in addition an excellent means of immersing your self within the native tradition. To not point out that it’s normally sooner than touring by bus, plus you gained’t have to fret about rush hour site visitors.
For those who’re in nice bodily situation, you would possibly even be capable to bike to points of interest far exterior town middle, and also you’d get to see some great surroundings alongside the way in which. And if spending a number of hours on a bicycle isn’t all that interesting, think about it for a fast tour of Downtown Victoria no less than.
Sensible Data
Bikes can be found for rent in a number of spots all through the city. The typical worth is $40 per day, though you may get a greater charge whenever you lease a motorbike for an extended interval.
5. Artwork Gallery of Higher Victoria
The Artwork Gallery of Higher Victoria is a superb mid-size gallery housed in two distinct areas. One a part of the gallery is in a brand new, fashionable constructing, whereas the opposite sits contained in the historic Spencer Mansion.
Come to this gallery to admire a sizeable assortment of attractive artwork, together with items from Canada and Asia. In reality, the gallery’s backyard even has a Shinto shrine that each one guests are inspired to see. It’s one among Victoria’s finest points of interest for lovers of artwork, historical past, and structure.
Sensible Data
The Artwork Gallery of Higher Victoria is open from 10 AM to five PM and costs a $15 entrance charge. Nonetheless, admission is free on the primary Sunday of the month and on Thursday evenings from 5 PM to 9 PM.
6. Tour The Parliament Buildings
![Things to do in Victoria BC Parliament Buildings](https://theplanetd.com/images/Things-to-do-in-Victoria-BC-Parliament-Buildings.jpg)
The Legislative Meeting of British Columbia is palms down one of the gorgeous authorities buildings I’ve seen in my total life. For me, the buildings appear to be they had been plucked from a European metropolis and transported to Victoria.
However they weren’t; the Parliament Buildings had been constructed in neo-Baroque fashion on the finish of the nineteenth century proper right here. Your complete park between Authorities Avenue and Menzies Avenue is a superb place the place you possibly can take pleasure in a number of the finest structure within the metropolis.
See the fountains, the impeccable landscaping, and all of the completely different memorial statues. You possibly can even be part of a guided tour to see the spectacular inside of those magnificent buildings. It’ll price you nothing, and it’ll undoubtedly enrich your expertise in Victoria, BC.
Sensible Data
Free guided excursions of the Parliament Buildings in Victoria happen a number of instances all through the day, between 8:30 AM and 4:30 PM.
7. Picnic at Beacon Hill Park
![Things to do in Victoria BC Beacon Hill Park](https://theplanetd.com/images/Things-to-do-in-Victoria-BC-Beacon-Hill-Park.jpg)
Beacon Hill is a sprawling public park separating James Bay from Fairfield. It’s simply accessible from central Victoria and top-of-the-line locations within the metropolis if you wish to spend a few hours in nature however aren’t fairly within the temper for an tour that features touring far exterior town middle.
That includes ponds, strolling trails, and landscaped gardens, Beacon Hill is an oasis amid this concrete jungle. It has all the things from totems to peacocks, and coming here’s a should for understanding why Victoria and British Columbia, generally, are recognized for implausible pure landmarks and out of doors actions.
Sensible Data
Beacon Hill Park is open every day from 8 AM to eight PM. Entrance to the park is freed from cost.
8. Stroll By Historic Fan Tan Alley
![Things to do in Victoria BC Fan Tan Alley](https://theplanetd.com/images/Things-to-do-in-Victoria-BC-Fan-Tan-Alley.jpg)
Fan Tan Alley is a historic alleyway in Victoria’s Chinatown district. It’s lined with eating places and boutique outlets on both facet, which supply some wonderful procuring and eating within the metropolis. Right here, you’ll discover outlets that promote all the things from Matcha tea to crystals and incense, so it’s undoubtedly a spot you need to try should you’re in search of distinctive souvenirs to purchase in Victoria.
Nonetheless, I’ll say that this expertise is fully skippable should you’re even slightly bit claustrophobic. The alley is so slim that passing subsequent to somebody isn’t at all times attainable, and the buildings are tall sufficient to trigger discomfort to individuals who don’t like confined areas.
However should you can navigate the tight alley and not using a sense of dread, will probably be a prime expertise. The pink and inexperienced storefronts are charming and go splendidly with the uncovered pink brick of the buildings. The doorway to the Chinese language Canadian Museum is right here, and though it’s small, the exhibit is attention-grabbing and price supporting.
Sensible Data
Fan Tan Alley is free to entry at any time, however most outlets are closed till 5 p.m.
9. Go to Fort Rodd Hill
![Things to do in Victoria BC Fort Rodd Hill](https://theplanetd.com/images/Things-to-do-in-Victoria-BC-Fort-Rodd-Hill.jpg)
Fort Rodd Hill is a Nationwide Historic Website finest recognized for the Fisgard Lighthouse. The oceanfront park presents strolling trails with views of previous army constructions, however it’s the Fisgaard lighthouse that draws the majority of tourists to the location.
Climb the steps to the highest of the lighthouse to expertise implausible panoramic vistas. On clear sunny days, the view stretches all the way in which to the Olympic Mountains in Washington on one facet and the San Juan Islands on the opposite.
Sensible Data
Fort Rodd Hill is accessible from 10 AM to 4 PM, with an admission charge of $9.
10. Hike To The Prime of Mount Douglas
![Things to do in Victoria BC Top of Mount Douglas](https://theplanetd.com/images/Things-to-do-in-Victoria-BC-Top-of-Mount-Douglas.jpg)
Mount Douglas is a hill north of Victoria Metropolis and a fantastic place to come back for 360° panoramic views. You possibly can cycle to the foot of the hill in about 50 minutes from central Victoria, and from there, it’s only a 30-minute hike to the lookout level on the prime. There’s even a car parking zone on the summit, so you possibly can simply drive as much as the scenic level should you’re not within the temper for an uphill stroll.
The vista from the lookout level is without doubt one of the finest in Victoria BC and it stretches into the USA. Additionally, a number of mountain climbing trails can be found at Mount Douglas, and you would spend a few hours roaming exploring the realm, and marveling on the good views. However should you’re in a rush, it’s good to know that this exercise is doable in about an hour from downtown Victoria.
Sensible Data
Mount Douglas Park is open for guests from 12 PM to eight PM. Entrance to the realm is freed from cost, and parking on the prime can also be free however very restricted.
11. Historic Excursions at Hatley Fort
![Things to do in Victoria BC Hatley Castle](https://theplanetd.com/images/Things-to-do-in-Victoria-BC-Hatley-Castle.jpg)
Hatley Fort is located in Higher Victoria, roughly a 20-minute drive (or 50-minute bike trip) from town middle. It’s completely definitely worth the problem it takes to get there as a result of the place is phenomenal. The early Twentieth-century fort was beforehand used as a residence and a naval coaching web site and these days is a historic park.
Are you able to think about that individuals truly lived on this implausible mansion? Even immediately, elements of it are used as workplace area and to carry courses, so you possibly can’t simply stroll inside everytime you like. Guests should join guided excursions to discover the inside of the mansion, however the formal gardens are accessible at no cost all through the day.
Sensible Data
Guided excursions of Hatley Fort can be found upon reservation and are $22 per participant. The gardens are open from 10 AM to nightfall, and entry is freed from cost.
12. Swimming At Thetis Lake Regional Park
![Things to do in Victoria BC Thetis Lake Regional Park](https://theplanetd.com/images/Things-to-do-in-Victoria-BC-Thetis-Lake-Regional-Park.jpg)
Thetis Lake Regional Park is the primary nature sanctuary in Canada recognized for mountain climbing trails and seashores on the lakeshore. Come right here in the summertime to loosen up within the unspoiled nature of British Columbia and luxuriate in some implausible panoramic views.
It’s a 15-minute drive from Victoria and a very good place to come back if you wish to escape the crowds of the city jungle. Pack a meals basket and produce a blanket so you possibly can arrange a picnic with panoramic views of the lake after a day stuffed with mountain climbing and swimming. Thetis Lake Regional Park is a good vacation spot for nature lovers in Victoria who need to discover past town streets.
Sensible Data
Thetis Lake Regional Park is accessible at any time. There is no such thing as a admission charge, however there’s a parking charge of $2.25 per day.
13. Bike Alongside The Galloping Goose Path
![Things to do in Victoria BC Galloping Goose Trail](https://theplanetd.com/images/Things-to-do-in-Victoria-BC-Galloping-Goose-Trail.jpg)
This enjoyable exercise is just for essentially the most avid hikers and mountain bikers, so skip it when you have zero curiosity in driving a mountain bike for 50+ miles. But when that sounds enjoyable, the Galloping Goose Path would possibly simply be the highest Victoria exercise for you!
The path follows an previous railway line for roughly 55 miles from Victoria to Sooke. It’s 55 miles for the out-and-back journey, so you possibly can cowl this path and be again on the town for dinner should you’re quick sufficient on a mountain bike.
This historic path passes by city and rural areas, in addition to wilderness. You possibly can comply with the whole path on a motorbike, or hike simply part of it. You possibly can even select to trip horses alongside the extra rural sections of the path, which is as a lot enjoyable because it sounds.
Sensible Data
The Galloping Goose Path is 55 miles for the return journey. This MTB route is beneficial just for skilled mountain bikers in wonderful bodily situations, because it takes roughly 5 hours to finish.
14. Stroll To The Breakwater Lighthouse
![Things to do in Victoria BC Breakwater Lighthouse](https://theplanetd.com/images/Things-to-do-in-Victoria-BC-Breakwater-Lighthouse.jpg)
The Breakwater Lighthouse sits on the finish of a protracted pedestrian pathway that extends into the ocean. As you stroll from James Bay to the lighthouse, you’ll get a great view of all of the cruise ships and ferries that depart Victoria’s inside harbor. The strolling path presents a great view of town’s marine site visitors, and it’s notably pleasant on heat, sunny days.
The lighthouse on the finish of the pathway dates again to 1916, and it’s surprisingly large. It doesn’t look that large from the gap, however the nearer you get to it the extra you’re impressed by its measurement.
One factor to notice is that it’s attainable to stroll down the Breakwater and the Decrease Breakwater. I like to recommend you stick with the common strolling path that’s fenced off. The decrease path options no fence, and the concrete blocks are sometimes very slippery.
Sensible Data
The Breakwater strolling path is accessible at any time of day or evening, freed from cost.
15. Wander Round Victoria Butterfly Gardens
![Things to do in Victoria BC Victoria Butterfly Gardens](https://theplanetd.com/images/Things-to-do-in-Victoria-BC-Victoria-Butterfly-Gardens.jpg)
Located roughly a 20-minute drive from town middle, the Victoria Butterfly Gardens is a good place to come back and neglect you’re in Canada for an hour. It’s an indoor tropical forest with free-flying butterflies and birdlife, to not point out all of the completely different bushes and flowers.
You might tour the place rapidly in below an hour, however I’m constructive you’ll need to spend extra time on the gardens when you go by the entrance door. Additionally, I actually like that each one the animals listed below are rescues or donations, and are thriving within the lush rainforest atmosphere.
One factor to notice is that it will get actually sizzling within the tropical jungle, so that you would possibly have to take breaks should you keep there for some time. Make sure that to carry a bottle of water to hydrate, and step exterior from time to time to chill down a bit.
Sensible Data
Victoria Butterfly Gardens has an entrance charge of $19.50 for adults. It’s open every day from 10 AM to 4 PM.
16. Play Mini Golf in a Haunted Manor
Haunted Manor mini golf isn’t an exercise for everybody, so be at liberty to depart it off your itinerary if it’s not one thing you’re prone to take pleasure in. However should you like mini golf or ping pong and also you’re into haunted homes and ghost excursions, it’s a really enjoyable means of spending a night in Victoria.
The mansion presents an 18-hole minigolf course, pinball machines, and ping-pong tables. The on-site bar and restaurant serve a choice of (non) alcoholic drinks and basic pub meals.
Sensible Data
Haunted Manor is open from 3 PM to 12 AM. Common admission to the place is $24.95.
17. Really feel Elegant At Afternoon Tea
![Things to do in Victoria BC Afternoon Tea](https://theplanetd.com/images/Things-to-do-in-Victoria-BC-Afternoon-Tea.jpg)
Victoria was as soon as a British Colony, and immediately it’s acknowledged as essentially the most British metropolis in Canada. So, it’s not too stunning that many widespread British traditions have survived within the metropolis. A type of is excessive tea, and it’s the proper afternoon exercise for vacationers who need to spend a day feeling fancy.
There are fairly a number of completely different tea homes in Victoria, however I believe the one at Pendray Inn is a best choice for vacationers within the metropolis. It’s in an enthralling Victorian mansion in James Bay, so only a brief stroll from the downtown. The elegant inside of the tea home is completely applicable for top tea, whereas the meals and drinks served there get solely the very best markings.
When you’re accomplished with the afternoon tea, take this chance to stroll across the neighborhood a bit. The harbor is simply a few minutes from Pendray Inn with views of the ocean and large ships.
Sensible Data
The Pendray tea home is open every day from 11 AM to three/4 PM. Reservations are beneficial, and the common price per individual is $60-70. A vegan choice is obtainable.
18. Flower Fields at The Butchart Gardens
![Things to do in Victoria BC Butchart Gardens](https://theplanetd.com/images/Things-to-do-in-Victoria-BC-Butchart-Gardens.jpg)
Spanning greater than 22 hectares, this huge botanical backyard is without doubt one of the best-known in British Columbia. With 26 greenhouses, ponds, statues, and a number of eateries, you would spend the higher a part of the day roaming round the Butchart Gardens.
One factor I’ll say is that this is without doubt one of the priciest points of interest in Victoria, BC, so that you would possibly need to go away it off your itinerary should you’re on a tighter finances. With every day tickets going as excessive as $40, it’s not a spot everybody can comfortably take pleasure in.
However you may get a significantly better deal on tickets should you come within the low season, and truthfully, the place is so great I’d say it’s definitely worth the cash. Come right here to see the infinite subject of colourful flowers and luxuriate in probably the best-scented a part of Victoria, BC.
Sensible Data
The Butchart Gardens are open from 9 AM to 4 PM. The grownup entrance charge is $25-40, relying on the season.
19. Panorama Views at Malahat SkyWalk
Located northwest of Victoria, simply off the Trans-Canada freeway, the Malahat SkyWalk presents probably one of the best panorama views in British Columbia. It’s solely a 30-minute drive from Victoria BC, and properly definitely worth the journey should you’ve acquired entry to a automobile.
Malahat SkyWalk is a spiral tower on hilly floor in the course of the forest. From the highest, you possibly can see the surroundings of each the US and Canada, and it’s such a pleasant view that you just’ll hardly need to go away.
Sensible Data
Malahat SkyWalk is open from 9 AM to five PM. Entrance to the spiral tower is charged $36.95.
20. Be Amazed At Miniature World
Miniature World is a novel museum in Victoria, BC. It options miniature dioramas of real-life and fantasy places and is nicknamed The Best Little Present on Earth. The element within the dioramas is staggering, whether or not you’re trying on the reproduction of Toronto in 1915 or the depiction of Camelot.
A fast tour of the place is feasible in 45 minutes, however provided that you rush by the place. Take your time to understand all of the little particulars and actually perceive all the things in regards to the dioramas, and you would simply spend 2+ hours on the museum.
Sensible Data
Miniature World is open every day from 10 AM to six PM. The doorway charge is $19 for adults.
21. Odor The Flowers at Abkhazi Backyard
Victoria is well-known for its many gardens and the Abkhazi Backyard is without doubt one of the finest near town middle. Located only a 15-minute bike trip from the guts of Victoria, it’s a wonderful different for vacationers who don’t need to exit of their option to see the Butchart Gardens.
It is a a lot smaller backyard, masking an space of “solely” 1.4 hectares. It first began again in 1946, and it took some time for all of the crops and bushes to develop to their present measurement. The rhododendrons are the undisputed star of the beautiful backyard, adopted by the tea home and ponds. Afternoon tea on the Abkhazi Backyard is a good thought, however I’ll say that it’s in the identical worth vary because the teahouse at Pendray Inn, however the inside decorations usually are not fairly as good.
Sensible Data
The Abkhazi Backyard is open every day from 10 AM to 4 PM. The admission charge for adults is $10.
22. Go For A Trip In A Pickle Boat
![Things to do in Victoria BC Pickle Boat](https://theplanetd.com/images/Things-to-do-in-Victoria-BC-Pickle-Boat.jpg)
Pickle boat excursions are operated by Victoria Harbour Ferry, they usually’re superior. Uncover Victoria from the ocean whereas driving in a pickle boat, which sounds rather a lot cooler than it truly is.
It’s only a small boat that may match as much as 12 passengers. Whereas I really like that it’s far more personal than a basic tour boat, I used to be totally dissatisfied to be taught that it isn’t certainly formed and painted like a pickle.
The small boats will take you on excursions of Victoria Harbor, they usually typically go all the way in which as much as Burnside. It’s a good way of exploring much more of this glorious metropolis and seeing the areas that aren’t fairly as handy to succeed in on basic strolling excursions.
Sensible Data
A number of choices can be found for excursions of Victoria Interior Harbour, they usually final from 45 to 75 minutes. The worth is round $40-50.
23. Test Out Fisherman’s Wharf
![Things to do in Victoria BC Fishermans Wharf](https://theplanetd.com/images/Things-to-do-in-Victoria-BC-Fishermans-Wharf.jpg)
Fisherman’s Wharf is essentially the most picturesque space of Victoria Interior Harbour. The piers are lined with floating houseboats painted in vibrant colours, a number of of which function eating places or outlets. Simply needless to say individuals stay in lots of these houseboats, so respect their privateness whereas exploring the realm.
As you stroll down the piers, you possibly can typically spot seals swimming within the water. They love the eye they get from guests and infrequently interact in playful antics to entertain the onlookers.
Fisherman’s Wharf extends past the piers lined with colourful boats to embody an expansive park with picnic areas and a playground for teenagers.
Sensible Data
Fisherman’s Wharf is free and accessible at any time. Most outlets and eating places are open till 7 PM.
24. Morning Jog Down Songhees Walkway
![Things to do in Victoria BC Songhees Walkway](https://theplanetd.com/images/Things-to-do-in-Victoria-BC-Songhees-Walkway.jpg)
Songhees Walkway is a waterfront strolling path that extends from Johnson Avenue Bridge to Sailor’s Cove Marina. It takes round 40 minutes to do the whole stroll in a single course, and there are many benches alongside the way in which so you possibly can sit down for breaks.
The walkway presents good views of Victoria Interior Harbor with loads of scenic viewpoints alongside the way in which. It’s additionally a fantastic path for joggers within the morning, however provided that you’re not simply distracted by the view.
Sensible Data
Songhees Walkway is accessible at any time at no cost. The strolling path extends for about 3 kilometers in a single course.
25. Be part of a Meals Tour
![Things to do in Victoria BC Food Tour](https://theplanetd.com/images/Things-to-do-in-Victoria-BC-Food-Tour.jpg)
Locals at all times know the place one of the best meals of their metropolis is, and also you’ll develop into aware about that information should you be part of an area meals tour. These normally embody journeys to town’s finest landmarks and loads of stops in widespread native eateries alongside the way in which.
The delicacies of Victoria, BC, is various. The classical native delicacies is heavy on seafood, however a correct Victoria meals tour will embody far more than what is taken into account conventional Canadian meals. In spite of everything, it’s town with the oldest Chinese language neighborhood in Canada, and no culinary tour of Victoria is full and not using a cease there.
Sensible Data
Meals excursions of Victoria, BC, normally final 2-3 hours. The beginning worth is $60.
26. Admire the Plane at The BC Aviation Museum
The BC Aviation Museum is at Victoria Airport, so you need to have no less than two alternatives to go to it. It’s additionally a fantastic incentive to reach on the airport early and make sure you don’t miss your flight.
The museum exhibit spans three hangars stuffed with historic and fashionable plane. Helicopters, warplanes, and plane engines are all on show at this museum. For those who’re provided a guided tour of the museum, take it. You’ll get to be taught a lot in regards to the plane on show, and it’s rather a lot higher than simply strolling across the hangar by yourself.
Sensible Data
The BC Aviation Museum is open every day from 10 AM to 4 PM. The doorway charge is $17 for adults.
27. Go Kayaking or Canoeing
![Things to do in Victoria BC Kayaking](https://theplanetd.com/images/Things-to-do-in-Victoria-BC-Kayaking.jpg)
Kayaking and canoeing are each very talked-about actions in Victoria, BC, and the proper option to discover town past its busy streets. Be part of a guided kayaking tour or lease a canoe and take to the seas by yourself—no matter your desire is, it shouldn’t be an issue.
One factor I’ll say is that guided excursions are the best choice for individuals with little expertise in kayaks and canoes. The currents right here could be unpredictable, and should you’re not accustomed to the climate situations it may develop into an disagreeable and even harmful expertise.
The fantastic thing about these water adventures is that they’ll take you to locations that will in any other case stay undiscovered. Wave between the small rocky islands and luxuriate in a unique perspective on Victoria’s Interior Harbor.
Sensible Data
A number of operates supply kayak and canoe excursions in Victoria BC, however Kelp Reef Adventures is without doubt one of the hottest.
28. See the Sakura Timber in Chinatown
![Things to do in Victoria BC Sakura Trees in Chinatown](https://theplanetd.com/images/Things-to-do-in-Victoria-BC-Sakura-Trees-in-Chinatown.jpg)
I’ve talked about Fan Tan Alley because the central level of Victoria’s Chinatown, however the historic district extends means past it. It’s the oldest Chinese language neighborhood in Canada and one of many prettiest elements of Victoria.
A gate marks the doorway to this historic space, so it’s tremendous simple to search out. Sakura bushes line the streets of Chinatown, they usually’re cause sufficient to think about touring to Victoria within the spring. Your complete neighborhood can also be adorned with conventional Chinese language lanterns.
Aside from being aesthetically pleasing, Chinatown can also be recognized for one of the best Chinese language meals in Victoria. You’ll additionally discover a great deal of outlets that promote conventional Chinese language souvenirs, and also you would possibly need to peruse them should you’re out there for distinctive souvenirs.
Sensible Data
The historic Chinatown neighborhood is within the northern a part of the Downtown district in Victoria BC.
29. Whale Watching Adventures
![Things to do in Victoria BC Whale Watching Adventures](https://theplanetd.com/images/Things-to-do-in-Victoria-BC-Whale-Watching-Adventures.jpg)
Victoria and British Columbia, generally, are a few of Canada’s finest spots for whale watching. There should be a dozen tour operators within the metropolis, however my favourite one is Prince of Whales, located within the Vacation spot Higher Victoria tourism middle constructing within the harbor.
The skilled operators will take you to one of the best spots to see whales, orcas, and even seal colonies. However in addition they know to maintain their distance from the animals so that they don’t disturb them of their every day routines.
This operator presents year-round whale-watching experiences in 12-passenger Zodiac boats. With a 95% success charge of the excursions, you’re virtually assured to identify the majestic mammals.
Sensible Data
Prince of Whales whale-watching excursions can be found year-round. They begin at $150 and final 3-6 hours.
30. Enterprise Out To Swan Lake
Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary is inside biking distance of downtown Victoria. It’s a fantastic place to go to should you don’t need to go to parks which might be farther exterior town middle however nonetheless need to take pleasure in a brief mountain climbing journey.
The character sanctuary includes a loop strolling path that even crosses the lake at one level. It takes roughly half-hour to finish, and it’s a well-maintained and simple strolling path appropriate for everybody. You don’t must be an skilled hiker to benefit from the Swan Lake Loop, which can reward you with some lovely views of the lake and the encircling forest.
Sensible Data
Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary is open from 10?AM to 4?PM. Admission to the park is freed from cost, however the entrance charge to the Nature Home museum is a urged $6 donation.
31. Totems at Thunderbird Park
![Things to do in Victoria BC Totems at Thunderbird Park](https://theplanetd.com/images/Things-to-do-in-Victoria-BC-Totems-at-Thunderbird-Park.jpg)
Thunderbird Park is a small public park in central Victoria. Located proper subsequent to the Royal BC Museum, the park is finest recognized for its totem pole replicas and historic homes.
The totems aren’t fairly as spectacular as those in Vancouver, however they’re nonetheless fairly a beautiful sight. Mungo Martin Home is thought for its painted exterior, whereas the Helmcken Home Pioneer Physician’s Residence presents brief excursions of a surgeon’s home with interval furnishings.
Sensible Data
Thunderbird Park is free and accessible at any time.
32. Ziplining in The Forest
Thrill seekers gained’t be let down by the choice of actions in Victoria. Only a 30-minute drive from the Downtown you’ll discover Adrenaline Zip – an area firm that operates ziplining excursions within the rainforest.
One factor to notice is that that is alongside the way in which should you embark on the Galloping Goose Path. The zipline rides are thrilling and really enjoyable. Your complete journey takes about two hours, and it consists of 8 zipline rides, a suspension bridge, and an ATV trip.
Sensible Data
The ziplining tour begins at $120. For an additional $30, they’ll throw in a shuttle service to Victoria.
33. Trip The Hop On Hop Off Bus
![Things to do in Victoria BC Hop On Hop Off Bus](https://theplanetd.com/images/Things-to-do-in-Victoria-BC-Hop-On-Hop-Off-Bus.jpg)
I’m not the most important fan of Hop-On Hop-Off buses, however I’ve to confess they’re a fantastic choice for vacationers who’re on the town for a really brief time. For those who’re in Victoria for under a day or two, driving the double-decker bus is nice for seeing all town’s prime landmarks in that point.
The fantastic thing about these buses is that you could get out at any cease, discover the realm, after which simply get on the bus once more. You possibly can even keep seated on the bus the whole time and simply sightsee from the consolation of your seat, whereas the tour information tells you the story behind the completely different points of interest.
Sensible Data
Purchase Hop-On Hop-Off bus tickets for $55 (legitimate for twenty-four hours) or $88 (legitimate for 48 hours).
34. Craft Beer Crawl
With greater than 20 craft breweries all through Victoria, town is actually a fantastic spot for beer lovers. A great deal of pubs within the metropolis serve native craft beer, and you’ll even tour breweries to attempt the drink proper on the supply.
The Craft Beer Market in Victoria Harbor is without doubt one of the finest pubs within the metropolis. It presents a big selection of native and worldwide craft beer. They even supply tasting menus, so you possibly can attempt half a dozen glasses.
The Whistle Buoy Brewing Firm within the Downtown is my best choice for an area brewery tour.
Sensible Data
Pubs in Victoria, BC, are normally open till Sept. 11 PM and a bit longer on the weekends.
FAQ For Greatest Issues To Do In Victoria BC
Is Victoria, BC, value visiting?
Sure, Victoria BC is value visiting. It’s a beautiful metropolis with gorgeous Victorian structure, a picturesque harbor, and a walkable downtown space.
What’s Victoria BC well-known for?
Victoria BC is thought for a lot of botanical gardens and beautiful Victorian mansions. The town can also be nicknamed the biking capital of Canada, due to numerous kilometers of biking and mountain biking trails.
What’s the #1 vacationer attraction in British Columbia?
The Stanley Park Totem Pole is by far the most well-liked vacationer attraction in British Columbia. The Butchart Gardens is essentially the most well-known vacationer attraction in Higher Victoria.
Is Victoria BC a walkable metropolis?
A lot of Victoria BC is walkable and pedestrian-friendly. Nonetheless, there are various attention-grabbing locations exterior the downtown which might be value visiting however not accessible on foot.
Suggestions And Data For Visiting Victoria BC
![Things to do in Victoria BC Tips and Information](https://theplanetd.com/images/Things-to-do-in-Victoria-BC-Tips-And-Information.jpg)
Greatest Time To Go to
One of the best time to go to Victoria depends upon what your priorities are. If you wish to be within the metropolis when it’s heat and sunny, then you need to plan a visit in the summertime. However count on increased costs of resorts and huge crowds of vacationers.
If, alternatively, you don’t thoughts strolling round in a jacket if it means fewer vacationers and higher lodge offers, journey to Victoria in April-Could or September-October. Simply needless to say town will get fairly a little bit of rainfall within the spring and autumn, so it’s not the best interval for out of doors actions.
What in regards to the winter season? Victoria is spectacular within the winter and the temperatures hardly ever drop under 0 Celsius. It’s particularly good there through the Christmas festivities.
Getting There
Victoria Worldwide Airport is the closest airport to town, however it has a direct connection to only a few worldwide locations. The airport in Vancouver, alternatively, is the second-busiest within the nation and chances are high will probably be your first cease in Canada.
From there you’ve acquired a great deal of choices. Native flights, seaplanes, and ferries all make it attainable to journey from Vancouver to Victoria. You possibly can even take a bus from the airport to town, which takes about 4 hours to succeed in the vacation spot, with a ferry crossing.
Getting Round
Downtown Victoria is a really walkable space and you’ll go to most points of interest within the historic a part of town on foot. Biking is a good way of getting across the metropolis as a result of you may get to the extra distant elements of Higher Victoria in about an hour, plus you gained’t must cope with rush hour site visitors as a lot.
Bike leases can be found all through town and are nice for vacationers visiting Victoria. As a result of town doesn’t have a metro system, buses are the one viable mode of public transport. They’re handy for touring across the metropolis however are usually fairly gradual.
Uber and taxis are another choice for reaching the extra distant areas, however they’re additionally the most costly means of getting round Victoria. As for automobile rental, I believe it is sensible provided that you’re on the town for an extended time. In any other case, it’s actually not value it as a result of a lot of the finest points of interest within the metropolis are inside strolling distance of each other.
How A lot Time Do You Want
Victoria is a fairly large metropolis and I reckon you want no less than three days to discover the entire finest points of interest downtown and some well-known sights in Higher Victoria. I believe it’s attainable to cowl one of the best landmarks in Victoria in about two days, however you may be in a little bit of a rush the whole time.
Vacationers who love being outdoor and exploring nature may have a good time in Victoria. For those who can swing 5 days right here, you possibly can have sufficient time to discover a great chunk of Vancouver Island, a lot of which is untouched nature.
The place To Keep In Victoria BC
Keep in Downtown Victoria or the historic James Bay neighborhood for straightforward strolling entry to all one of the best landmarks and points of interest within the metropolis. Each areas supply all kinds of resorts in each worth vary, in addition to a great deal of attention-grabbing vacationer points of interest. Among the finest resorts in Victoria for all budgets are:
- Ocean Island Inn presents finances lodging with a implausible location in Downtown Victoria.
- Fairmont Empress is without doubt one of the finest resorts in central Victoria, with beautiful views of Victoria Interior Harbor.
- The Oak Bay Seashore Resort is a five-star lodge with an oceanfront location. It has a implausible spa middle and huge rooms, however it’s fairly removed from town middle. Contemplate staying on the Oak Bay Seashore Resort should you’re planning a soothing trip in Victoria, BC.