Top Attractions and Fun Things to Do in Victoria, British Columbia
So, you’re thinking about visiting Victoria, BC? Great idea. Honestly, this city is like Canada’s version of a cozy hug — small, beautiful, and full of personality. It’s the kind of place where you can have fancy afternoon tea, wander through gardens that look like a Disney movie, go whale watching, and still make it back downtown for craft beer and live music. Not bad, right?
I’ve been to Victoria a few times, and every visit has me saying, “Wow, I should probably just move here.” It’s that good. If you’re planning a trip, here’s a laid-back guide to the best things to do — no boring travel brochure talk, just the good stuff.
Butchart Gardens: Not Just for Flower Nerds
Let’s start with the obvious: Butchart Gardens. I know, I know… “gardens” might not sound thrilling. But this place is basically the Beyoncé of gardens — it’s a showstopper.
You’ve got the Sunken Garden (jaw-dropping), the Japanese Garden (peaceful AF), and a Rose Garden that smells better than any perfume store. Even if flowers aren’t your thing, you’ll find yourself wandering around saying, “Okay, this is actually amazing.”
Pro tip: Go in the evening during summer. The lights come on, everything glows, and it feels like a magical fairytale. No glass slipper required.
Royal BC Museum: Not Your Average Museum
Rainy day? Or just want to nerd out a little? The Royal BC Museum is the spot. It’s not one of those dry, read-a-million-plaques type of museums. This one has massive, life-like exhibits that make you feel like you’re in history, not just looking at it.
You can walk through an old-timey town, check out Indigenous art, or come face-to-face with a giant woolly mammoth. (Don’t worry, it’s not real, but it definitely looks like it could start moving any second.)
Parliament Buildings: Fancy in the Day, Sparkly at Night
Right by the Inner Harbour are the BC Parliament Buildings, and trust me, you’ll notice them. They look straight out of Europe — all domes and stone and “ooh, fancy.”
Take the free tour if you’re into history or politics. But even if you’re not, come back at night when the whole building is covered in thousands of twinkling lights. It’s like Victoria’s version of putting on its party outfit.
Craigdarroch Castle: Rich People Lived Like This?
If you’re into castles (and who isn’t?), check out Craigdarroch Castle. Built by a coal baron with way too much money, this Victorian mansion is basically one big flex.
Inside, it’s all stained glass windows, carved wood, and staircases that make you feel like you should be holding a glass of champagne while dramatically descending them. Honestly, it’s fun to walk around and imagine what life was like when “rich” meant owning an actual castle.
Emily Carr House: Artsy and Cute
Victoria is the hometown of Emily Carr, one of Canada’s most famous artists, and her childhood home is now a cozy little museum. It’s not huge, but it’s charming and gives you a peek into her life. Even if you’re not an “art person,” it’s worth a quick stop. Plus, the neighborhood it’s in is perfect for a lazy stroll.
Parks, Trails, and Ocean Views
One of the best things about Victoria is that you don’t need to go far to get into nature. Some of the best spots are literally right in the city:
- Beacon Hill Park: Gardens, ponds, and… peacocks. Yup, peacocks just wandering around like divas.
- Dallas Road Walkway: Gorgeous oceanside path with mountain views. Great for walking the dog, or just pretending you have one.
- Mount Douglas: Short hike, big views. Perfect for sunrise, if you’re a morning person (I am not, but hey).
- Goldstream Park: If you’re around in fall, you can watch the salmon run. It’s messy, kind of gross, and super cool all at once.
Whale Watching: The Main Event
If you splurge on one thing in Victoria, make it a whale watching tour. Orcas, humpbacks, seals — this area has them all. Seeing whales in the wild is one of those experiences that makes you forget about everything else and just say, “Whoa.”
You can go in a small zodiac boat (fast, bumpy, fun) or a bigger one (comfy, snacks included). Either way, it’s unforgettable. Bring a jacket, though — the ocean breeze does not mess around.
Get Moving: Biking, Kayaking, and Ziplining
Victoria kind of tricks you into being active. Everything’s so beautiful you actually want to get out and move.
- Rent a bike and ride the Galloping Goose Trail. It’s long, scenic, and easy.
- Paddle a kayak around the Inner Harbour. Don’t freak out if a seal pops up near you — they’re friendly (mostly).
- Feeling brave? Head to Sooke for ziplining through giant trees. You’ll scream, then laugh, then want to do it again.
Food & Drink: Bring Your Appetite
Okay, let’s talk food, because Victoria nails it.
- Afternoon Tea at the Empress: It’s touristy, it’s fancy, and yes, it’s worth it. You’ll feel classy sipping tea in a castle-like hotel.
- Red Fish Blue Fish: A tiny seafood stand right on the water. Their fish & chips are legendary, and the line proves it.
- Craft Beer & Cider: Tons of local breweries. Phillips Brewing is a go-to, and Sea Cider Farm & Ciderhouse has cider that will ruin you for all other cider.
- Coffee: Victorians take coffee seriously. Habit and Discovery are two of the best spots
Shopping That’s Actually Fun
Let’s be real — shopping on vacation can sometimes feel like a trap (do you really need another fridge magnet?). But in Victoria, the shops are actually worth a wander.
- Government Street: A mix of cute boutiques, bookstores, and gift shops that go beyond the boring “I ♥ Victoria” t-shirts.
- Market Square: Trendy, indie vibes with local artisans and one-of-a-kind finds.
- Bastion Square Market (summer): The place to score handmade jewelry, art, and crafts you’ll actually want to take home.
Basically, if you’re into unique souvenirs that don’t scream “airport gift shop,” Victoria’s shopping scene has your back.
When’s the Best Time to Visit?
The cool thing about Victoria is that it doesn’t really have a bad season. Seriously — this city is known as the warmest spot in Canada, so you won’t be freezing your toes off (well, not as badly as the rest of the country anyway).
- Spring & Summer: This is peak garden and festival season. Flowers are exploding everywhere, whale tours are in full swing, and the city feels extra alive. It’s busy, but in a good way.
- Fall: Think cozy vibes, pretty leaves, and wine tastings in nearby valleys. Oh, and the salmon run — it’s nature’s version of a dramatic reality show.
- Winter: Don’t picture snowstorms — Victoria does winter way more gently. Sure, you’ll get some rain, but you’ll also find festive lights at Butchart Gardens and way fewer crowds at all the big attractions.
So basically, it comes down to what kind of trip you’re after: sunny adventures, autumn coziness, or a low-key winter escape.
Where to Stay
- Luxury: The Fairmont Empress (fancy, historic, right on the water).
- Boutique: Magnolia Hotel or Oswego Hotel.
- Budget: HI Victoria Hostel or affordable Airbnbs.
Final Thoughts
Victoria may not be Canada’s biggest city, but that’s part of the charm. It’s friendly, walkable, and full of little surprises. You can go from sipping tea in a historic hotel to spotting orcas in the wild in the same day — not many places can top that.
If you can, give yourself at least three days here. Enough to see the big highlights, sneak in a day trip, and still have time to just sit by the harbour with a pint and watch the world go by.
And fair warning: you might leave already planning your next trip back.
