Are you looking for places to discover on your next British Columbia trip? After taking in the sights of Vancouver and Whistler, why not stop in Victoria, the provincial capital, on your way to Tofino?
Virtually all travellers fall in love with Victoria on their first visit. Victoria will charm you with its vibrant colours, flowers, beaches and seafood! Here are some ideas for activities, restaurants and accommodations for two days of fun in Victoria. Let’s go!
To get to Victoria from Vancouver, you will need to take BC Ferries from Tsawwassen (about 40 minutes by car from downtown Vancouver). It’s safer to book in advance because if you show up the same day you risk not finding a place on one of the ferries (or maybe finding a seat but not at your desired time). Don’t forget that you must arrive 30 minutes to 1 hour before your departure time.
The 90-minute ferry ride is super nice as you go around several islands in front of Vancouver Island. To make the time pass faster, go out on deck to get some fresh air and admire the view. Bring a jacket; it’s windy! When you arrive at the Swartz Bay terminal, expect a 30-minute drive before you get to the heart of Victoria.
What to do?
Craigdarroch Castle and Rockland
Stroll through the Rockland neighbourhood before heading to Craigdarroch Castle. I can guarantee you will want to buy a house there, even if they are way out of your price range! Then visit Craigdarroch Castle, a historic site designed by Baron Robert Dunsmuir in the late 1800s. Fun (or not so fun) fact: The Baron died before he could see the final result of his home.
Chinatown
Victoria’s tiny Chinatown is truly charming. It’s time to enjoy dumplings, dim sum or bubble tea! Go through the small Fan Tan Alley, where you can find several pretty shops. You might feel like you’ve stepped into a Harry Potter book!
Government Street
Government Street is so full of life, day and night! You’ll never run of out things to do between the antique stores, candy stores and restaurants. Of course, you could always go shopping (if your suitcase isn’t already overflowing).
Tea Time
The city of Victoria has a very British side, so take the opportunity to have tea (or coffee) with a pastry at traditional tea time, around 4 p.m. Several restaurants or cafes offer this option. If you have a healthy budget, you can go to the Fairmont Empress; otherwise, Murchie’s Tea & Coffee on Government Street is more than enough!
Thumbnail World
This activity is not essential, but if you have free time or it’s raining, consider it a worthwhile detour. Miniature World stages several historical events using miniature models. It’s well put together, super cute, and you could spend a few hours looking at every little detail.
Visit the Parliament
The Victoria Parliament Building (also called the Legislative Assembly of British Columbia) is a magnificent building that you can visit for free! Every day of the week, guided tours are offered on-site between 9:20 a.m. and 4:20 p.m. Arrive early, as it’s first come, first served.
Beacon Hill Park
Don’t underestimate Beacon Hill Park. The place is beautifully landscaped and provides a lovely setting for a walk. You can have fun looking for the Moss Lady, a sculpture representing a woman lying down on the ground amongst the greenery. Beacon Hill Park is known for its small farm, flower gardens and interesting trees.
You can walk straight south of the park from Finlayson Point to Clover Point Kite Park via Spiral Beach. There you can pause to admire kites dancing in the wind. You can even see the Olympic Mountains of America in the distance with their snow-capped peaks.
The Water’s Edge
Soak up the maritime side of Victoria as you walk along the waterfront route from Steve Fonyo Beach to Fort Victoria. This path will take you all around the tip of James Bay, passing beautiful viewpoints such as the Ogden Point Sundial (perfect for sunset viewing), Breakwater Lighthouse and Fisherman’s Wharf.
Many people also rent kayaks or paddle boards to sail around Victoria and see the city from a different perspective.
Fisherman’s Wharf
Little Fisherman’s Wharf is a really sweet place to dine. The colourful houses on stilts might influence you to want to live on the water. From Mexican food, fish & chips, sandwiches and ice cream, there is something for everyone. Don’t forget to check out the lovely craft shop 4 Winds Nest.
Where to eat ?
Red Fish Blue Fish
This small seaside stand is the perfect place for lunch, especially if you love seafood. Pick from Fish & Chips, salmon, sandwiches, salads, etc. You will find exactly what you are hungry for at Red Fish Blue Fish.
Don Mee
Located in Chinatown, this restaurant offers a midday dim sum menu to fill your belly. Try new Chinese specialties or stick to classic shrimp dumplings.
Finn’s Seafood Chops Cocktails
This restaurant on the waterfront makes for a great fancy dinner spot. The patio is heated, and better yet, the restaurant offers blankets if you get chilly! You can have a delicious cocktail to accompany your pasta with seafood or your fish fillet at Finn’s. Cheers!
10 Acres Bistro
This great local restaurant offers a delicious seafood platter to share. The 10 Acres Bistro offers many dishes and desserts, each more tempting than the next. Right next door, you’ll end your evening with a drink at 10 Acres Commons.
Fisherman’s Wharf
You can’t forget Fisherman’s Wharf where you’ll be spoiled for choice with places to eat. All the options are amazing! And eating while staring at colourful houses is always fun.
If there are too many tourists around for your liking, don’t hesitate to order take-out and enjoy it at the Fisherman’s Wharf park next door or on the David Foster Harbor promenade.
Where to sleep?
The Union Club of British Columbia ($$)
This hotel is downright gorgeous with its wooden ceilings and quirky elevator, which is the oldest in British Columbia. The price-performance ratio for the rooms is good. There is a beautiful terrace practically made for cocktail hour.
Strathcona Hotel ($$)
This hotel is also affordable and has a billiard room, a heated patio and a bar to wind down in after a day of exploring.
Fairmont Empress ($$$)
If you have more room in your budget, you could indulge in a stay at the Empress. This huge central hotel overlooks Victoria Harbour and is the hub for guided bus tours. They also serve high tea!
Ocean Island Inn ($)
If you have a rather tight budget, the Ocean Island Inn hostel can accommodate you. Mixed, male, or female dorms start at $29 per night. You can also upgrade to a private room starting at $70.27 per night.
Now that you know what to do, where to eat and where to sleep, Victoria is waiting for you! It’s your turn to breathe the salty air, devour seafood and visit the capital of British Columbia.
@nomadjunkies.quebecActivities to do over 2 days in Victoria, BC! 🇨🇦 ##bc ##victoria ##canada ##thingstodo ##foryou ##nomadjunkies♬ Send Me on My Way – Vibe Street
