tourism in victoria

32 best places to visit in Victoria

There are so many amazing places to visit in Victoria. Victoria is a state of diversity from the Australian Alps in the North East to limestone sea stacks that make the 12 Apostles in the south-west, to the arid desert-like condition of the northwest and Australia’s most southerly spot of Wilsons Promontory just to name a few. But what are some of the best places to visit in Victoria?

Places to visit in Victoria during Summer – Phillip Island

• Where to go in Victoria – Wilson's Promontory
• Victoria's interesting places – Mildura

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Best places to visit in victoria, australia.

Melbourne will most likely be your starting destination for visiting the sights of Victoria. Victoria is one of Australia’s smallest states but also it is the second most populated, and Melbourne, the world’s most livable city, is the capital.

We are proud to call this wonderful state home, and there is so much to explore in Victoria . Melbourne is forecast to overtake Sydney in the next 20 years as the most populous city in Australia.

In this places in Victoria Australia article, you will find submissions from some of Australia’s top bloggers who love these holiday places in Victoria and rate them as some of the best places to visit in Victoria. We hope some of the amazing destinations reviewed will inspire you to visit Victoria and find some of your own best places to visit in Victoria.

Places to visit in Victoria

Victoria is known for its scenic landscapes and natural beauty. With epic places to visit in Victoria, you will find that you will be blessed with so much to do.

It has many different regions to explore, so the traveller seeking to find peace and quiet can do so because there are many remote communities, while the explorer looking for culture and excitement will love Victoria’s amazing hidden gems in the small towns and regional areas.

Best places to visit in Eastern Victoria

For the sake of this article, we are classifying Eastern Victoria as most of the state that lies east of Melbourne. The two main highways that will take you through Eastern Victoria are the Princes Highway and the South Gippsland Highway.

A day trip from Melbourne is needed or a stay in the region to see the sights and landmarks in Victoria. You will find Eastern Victoria the least populated area of the state.

It’s known for its small towns, forests, National Parks, food and wine. Some of the best places to visit in Victoria’s east region include the major towns of Warragul, Traralgon, Leongatha and Bairnsdale. It is also home to Victoria’s most remote town Dargo and the Lions Club village of Licola.

The Gippsland Lakes , Phillip Island, Wilsons Promontory and the Victorian High Country are popular holiday places in Victoria. Here are all the best places to visit in Victoria in the east.

Tarra Bulga National Park

Tarra Bulga National Park is a hidden gem, located just over 2.5 hours from Melbourne in South Gippsland, we think it is one of the best, albeit lesser-known best places to visit in Victoria.

The National Park forms part of the Strzelecki Ranges and is one of only four cool temperate rainforests in Victoria (including the Otways, Central Highlands, East Gippsland and South Gippsland).

A cool temperate rainforest is cool, wet and dark with lots of ferns and moss. This Gippsland National Park is full of rainforests with giant Mountain Ash trees, beautiful fern gullies, spectacular views, gorgeous walks and an awesome suspension bridge.

From the visitor’s centre, there are a number of short walks, most are interlinking so you can make them longer by combining a couple together. 

These walks take you through and under the rainforest canopy. The Corrigan Suspension Bridge is one of the most popular walks and a must-do. The bridge stretches through the rainforest with magnificent views of the greenest, lushest fern gully. There are also ample spots for a picnic lunch.

The visitor centre provides picnic tables, barbeques, a shelter and a toilet while other picnic areas are set amongst the giant trees and tree ferns. Caravan Parks and various accommodation options are available within the Tarra Valley and surrounding areas, but camping is not permitted within the actual National Park. Make sure you also keep your eyes open for a Lyrebird on one of your walks.

Contributed by Amber, who blogs at Hill Tribe Travels

Mallacoota, is a picturesque and idyllic coastal town located on the far eastern coast of Victoria, near the New South Wales border. With its long beaches, crystal-clear waters, and luxurious inlets, Mallacoota is one of the most popular summer destinations for tourists in Victoria.

The town has a vibrant café and pub scene, with the local Mallacoota pub featuring live music regularly.

Mallacoota is well known for fishing with plenty of fishing spots both in the estuaries and offshore, This is perfect for those looking to enjoy some fresh seafood. The Mallacoota Caravan, which seems to encompass the whole town, has sites that front the water where you can keep your boat in the water.

Visitors can enjoy the sun and waves at the beach, canoeing, jet skiing, diving, bushwalking, or a game of Golf.

You can take a water taxi or guided tour to the nearby lighthouse at Gabo Island. Mallacoota really is about getting away and enjoying the coastal environment of Victoria.

Contributed by Mark from Poland Travel Expert

Planning a Victorian summer holiday?   Here is a guide to 8 brilliant summer destinations in Victoria

Buchan to visit Buchan Caves

The Buchan Caves are located in East Gippsland a stunning, scenic 45-minute drive from Lakes Entrance and Bairnsdale (another two amazing best places to visit in Victoria). The Buchan Caves reserve is managed by Parks Victoria and has camping and BBQ facilities for travellers or day-trippers to East Gippsland.

You can pitch a tent, bring a van or stay in luxury glamping accommodation for either a night or a longer stay at Buchan Caves one of the best places in Victoria.

The Park is popular for the caves that are able to be explored deep underground. The Fairy Cave and The Royal Cave were discovered early in the 19th century by complete accident. The Royal Cave is 500 meters long and has 150 steps in it, so it is not recommended for people with mobility issues.

When you are touring the caves you see amazing formations, with stunning underground ponds and are blown away at the beauty of it all. Elaborate stalactites and stalagmites are features that have been forming over millions of years from a time when this area was under the ocean. There is even one amazing fossilized fish that you can view.

Buchan Caves is home to many walking trails and native animals. It is not unusual to see Kangaroo hopping around and if you camp you will certainly see possums a night time.

There is a freshwater pool at the caves that fills with water straight out of a cave. It is often called the coldest pool in Victoria because it’s literally freezing. Buchan is one of the best places to visit in Victoria.

Contributed by Mark from Wyld Family Travel

Visiting places in Victoria – Lakes Entrance

Lakes Entrance has to be one of the best places to visit in Victoria. Lakes Entrance is the capital of the Gippsland Lakes located 320 km east of Melbourne and has a plethora of activities for anyone wanting to holiday in Gippsland.

Lakes Entrance has stunning beaches and is home to the pristine 90-mile beach as well as some of the best-grown produce in the state.

A great way to get around Lakes Entrance is to take your bike, as there is a bike path that runs the full length of the town. You can stop at one of the many amazing cafés for a rest if you need to. The Riviera Ice Cream Parlour is one of the favourite shops in town, as well as Big Bears Doughnuts.

If you are travelling to the Gippsland Lakes or Lakes Entrance with kids there are some fun parks to play at, especially on the North Arm near the bridge where you enter Lakes and at Eastern Beach . In the summer there is always a carnival on the foreshore with fun rides that is open until late.

If you don’t like swimming at the surf beach, there are some good spots in the lakes, especially at Kalimna Jetty where there are no waves, and it is nice and sandy. Find a place to stay in Lakes Entrance today

Contributed by Willow, who blogs at Travels in Gippsland

Visit Gippsland:  11 reasons you NEED to visit the Gippsland Lakes

Raymond Island for Koalas!

Many families that come to Australia are excited for up-close encounters with the country’s unique animals, especially the very cute koala. One of the best places to visit in Victoria for a look at these amazing creatures is an easy but extraordinary stop at tiny Raymond Island.

The island is a quick (and free for foot traffic) ferry ride from Paynesville, at the southern end of the Gippsland Lakes area.

Once you reach the shore, there are signs everywhere pointing out the route to the island’s resident population of native koalas!

Some of them live in the gum trees on people’s lawns, but the majority can be found in the small reserve area on the back of the island – just a twenty-minute walk from the ferry landing.

Here you can see koalas snoozing and munching on leaves and could just walk right up to their trees (though they’re wild animals, so make sure to keep a respectful distance). While strolling the peaceful island, you can also see echidnas and numerous native birds.

Contributed by Melissa who blogs at The Family Voyage

Places to go in Victoria – Healesville

An hour and forty minutes by car from Melbourne and nestled within the heart of the Yarra Valley, Healesville is an ideal destination for a weekend away or even a day trip from Melbourne.

While most people visit Healesville for the wine experiences offered there, it is not only an amazing wine destination in Victoria, there are so many other things to do in Healesville.

The Healesville Sanctuary makes for a popular day out for couples, friends or families. Home to Australia’s most beloved furry, feathered and scaled friends, you can book a close encounter with a wombat, echidna and various other animals, or just wander around the sanctuary at your own pace.

Other amazing Healeseville activities include the Maroondah Reservoir Park, locally known as Maroondah Dam. Here you can admire the local birdlife (the place is infested with cockatoos, galahs, mynahs and sacred ibis) and have a picnic.

There’s a playground for the children, gardens to be explored and a waterfront-walking trail, offering panoramic views of the dam itself.

If you don’t mind dealing with kids on a sugar high, plan a visit to the Yarra Valley Chocolaterie, where tons of delicious treats are made onsite. You may not buy any chocolate, but there are free samples on offer and at the very least, beautiful views of the surrounding valley.

You can also spend the day visiting some of the best cellar doors in the state. The Yarra Valley is world-known for having some of the most stunning vineyards for visitors to experience.

The town centre is worth a wander down too, featuring bookstores, boutique shops, and naturally, bottle-o making Healesville one of the best places to visit in Victoria. Book a stay in Healesville today .

Contributed by LC who blogs at Birdgehls

Phillip Island remains one of Victoria’s most well-known attractions because of its nightly penguin parade. But, The Island is about so much more than this, there is literally something for everyone on Phillip Island.

Phillip Island is an easy day tour outside of Melbourne’s CBD (175 km drive), but one day really isn’t enough to enjoy one of the best places in South East Victoria.

Cowes is the centrepiece of Phillip Island with a bustling main street sitting right within Cowes Main Beach and its iconic pier and is a great lunch stop with beautiful views. From there you can also do some amazing wildlife cruises to Seal Rocks – home to the largest fur seal colony in Australia and at the right time of the year an amazing Whale watching experience.

There are many surf beaches on the island including the famed Smiths Beach and Cape Woolami which are true local haunts that shouldn’t be missed.

For motorheads, the MotoGP is held here every year in October which shuts the roadway to the island down, so plan to stay a few days to beat the rush if you do attend.

But for many, it is The Nobbies that truly shine on any visit – a boardwalk overlook that has views of the coast, a blowhole, and the home of the original Artic Journey.

If you only get to see one attraction here, visiting Phillip Island must be it! Don’t forget to book your Phillip Island accommodation

Contributed by Toni who blogs at Enchanted Serendipity

Visit Phillip Island: Plan your trip with our ultimate guide with things to do on Phillip Island

The town of Walhalla in Gippsland is one that is often referred to as a town that time forgot. It is an easy day trip from Melbourne and is one of the best places to visit in Victoria.

There are plenty of things to do in Walhalla for all ages and you will find many people enjoying a day out in Walhalla or people camping in the summer months. Located in a valley it is the perfect place to escape the city. Walhalla was originally a big gold mining town.

Once the gold disappeared so did many of the residents but the old buildings are still remnants of the past. The rotunda in the town is a beautiful memory of the times gone by.

If you are visiting Walhalla you may want to go on a ride on the Walhalla Goldfield railway, take a tour of the old Gold mines, wander the main street and have a look at some of the old shops. There are some cafes there for you to eat at or the pub or if you are looking to cook a BBQ there are free areas in the Lions Park in the main street.

Many people also take the time to have a look at the Walhalla cemetery which is located on the side of the hill and has many stories on the tombstones about how hard life was back in the gold rush era. Walhalla in Autumn is stunning with the ever-changing colours of the leaves.

Where to go in Victoria – Wilson’s Promontory

Wilsons Promontory, also known as The Prom, is a national park located in the Gippsland region of Victoria. It is known for its rugged coastal scenery, a diverse range of flora and fauna, and various hiking and camping opportunities.

Visitors can explore the park’s many beaches, bushwalks, and lookouts, and also participate in activities such as swimming, fishing, and bird watching. You can also join a whale-watching cruise off Wilsons Prom for an unforgettable experience. Walks to Squeaky Beach, Little Waterloo Bay and the lighthouse are popular.

Tidal River is the main settlement in the park, with a Park’s Victoria visitors information centre, a small shop, a wilderness cruise booking stall and campgrounds. It’s a wonderful place to visit and explore the natural beauty of Australia. Did you know the most southerly part of mainland Australia is Wilson’s Promontory?

Inverloch is a popular destination on the Bass Coast in southeast Victoria. It is a popular destination in the summer months for families who enjoy the clear waters and scenic surroundings.

Fishing in the Inlet and off the nearby rocks is popular, with a variety of fish such as snapper and gummy sharks on offer.

For something a little more interesting, why not explore the Dinosaur Dreaming Fossil Site? The site is known for its rich deposits of fossils from the Early Cretaceous period, including those of the ornithopod dinosaurs, such as Leaellynasaura, and the theropod dinosaur Australovenator.

You can see Dinosaur footprints in the rocks and walk in the steps of these amazing creatures.

Enjoy the local food and wine at the cafes and restaurants in the town and visit the Inverloch Farmers Market on Sunday.

Dargo is a small town located in the high country region of Victoria, Australia. The town is situated on the Dargo River and is surrounded by beautiful forests and mountains, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

One of the main reasons people visit Dargo is its access to the Alpine National Park, which offers a range of activities such as hiking, camping, fishing, and horse riding. The park is home to several stunning natural attractions, including the historic Wonnangatta Station, the Crooked River, and the iconic High Plains.

In addition to outdoor activities, Dargo is also known for its rich history and heritage. The town was originally a gold mining settlement, and visitors can still see remnants of the mining era, such as the Dargo Heritage Museum and the Dargo Cemetery.

Furthermore, Dargo is a popular spot for off-road driving and 4WD adventures, as it offers challenging tracks and stunning scenery.

Dargo is a beautiful and rugged town that offers a range of activities for those who love the outdoors, history, and adventure.

Places to visit in Northern Victoria

The northern area of  Victoria  is made up of the beautiful Goulburn Valley and the plentiful riverside towns situated along the Murray River. On the Murray is the wonderful Barmah State Park. There are many bird species within the unique wetland region and the largest Redgum forest in the world.

Skiing at places like Mount Buffalo and Mount Buller in the winter months is popular. Major towns in the area include Mildura, Swan Hill, Echuca and Shepparton. The North is easily accessed by the Northern Highway and Hume Freeway to visit places of interest in Victoria.

Best places to visit in regional Victoria – Mount Buffalo

Mt Buffalo is an imposing peak in the North East Victoria region, standing at 1,267 metres above sea level. It’s a popular destination for bushwalkers and day-trippers who can explore its lookouts, Heritage-listed Chalet and rugged undulating terrain while  staying in Bright  and surrounds.

There are also several waterfalls and lakes located on the mountain, making it a great place to spend a day out in nature. In wintertime, visitors can enjoy the snow gums and wildflowers that grow on the mountain.

In the summer months, you can go swimming and canoeing on Lake Catani. There are plenty of designated areas to pull up for a picnic with tables and chairs. The drive to the top is memorable, with many places to stop and see the views over the north.

Victoria tourist spots – Glenrowan

Glenrowan, a small town near Wangaratta, is best known as the site of the infamous bushranger Ned Kelly and his gang’s last stand. Pick up a copy of the Glenrowan Heritage Siege Precinct walking map and take a stroll around this historic town, relieving stories and legends from the past.

The map can be found at local businesses or at the local information stand at the Glenrowan Bakehouse.

The sites of significance around Glenrowan are well-marked and easy to find. Each site has a large placard with plenty of information on the events that transpired during the siege of Glenrowan.

There are even some statues erected representing bushrangers (you can also visit the Melbourne Gaol ) and the police to help visitors really get a feel for what it would have been like on those very streets back in 1880.

Be sure to have your photo taken with the 6-meter-tall statue of Ned Kelly in the village and also to walk over the bridge that connects the main road with the appropriately named Siege Street.

On Seige Street, you’ll find the site of Ann Jones’ Glenrowan Inn, the siege site, the Police Shelter Site and the Ned Kelly Capture Site (there is a plaque on the ground so you can’t miss it). If you enjoy history Glenrowan is one of the best places to visit in Victoria.

Contributed by Christine who blogs at Adventure Baby

Places to visit in Victoria in Winter – Dinner Plain

Dinner Plain is the newest township in the state of Victoria. This Alpine Ski village was built just down the road from Mount Hotham as a location for cross-country skiing. Dinner Plain borrows its designs from European Ski villages with its chalets and building, it is worth a stop to walk around and look at the architecture in the Alpine region of Victoria .

The Dinner Plain Hotel is open all year round serving meals and drinks. The are other shops and cafes that open mainly during the snow season when the town is at its busiest. For fitness enthusiasts, Dinner Plain is known for its mountain biking and trail running tracks in the National Park.

For something, a little less energetic and more fun Frisbee golf is the go. Staying the night at Dinner Plain is a great idea with awesome accommodation options available at  Club Wyndham Dinner Plain .

Bright is one of those places that you might not see in an Australian guidebook but is a favourite weekend getaway for Victorians and one of the most beautiful and best places to visit in Victoria. Set in the Victorian High Country, nestled beside the beautiful Mount Buffalo National Park, Bright truly is a four-season destination. 

In winter, Bright is your gateway to skiing and snow sports. Come summer, there is nothing better than enjoying a cold beer at the Bright Brewery while the kids play in the Ovens River. But, the very best time to visit Bright is in the autumn, when the trees come alive with colour.

The best way to experience the autumn colours is by cycling the Murray to Mountains rail trail.  You can stop off at numerous cute cafes and wineries while taking in nature’s palette.  The annual Bright Autumn Festival in May showcases the region’s produce, foodie culture, art and of course the majestic colours.

Head outside of the town to enjoy some hiking by driving up to Mount Buffalo.  Here the snow gums tower over interesting rock formations and you can enjoy the numerous waterfalls in the Park and beautiful Lake Catani. Book a weekend or week away in Bright , we recommend staying at Discovery Parks Bright .

Contributed by Dawn who blogs at 5 Lost Together

Victorian weekend getaways: All the very best things to do in Bright

Located just over an hour north of Melbourne is the town of Nagambie. Most people visiting the town either come for Nagambie Lake or the nearby wineries. Lake Nagambie is a man-made lake that came about from the damming of the Goulburn River, creating one of the biggest lakes in Victoria for recreational use.

There are a few hotels and a Discovery Parks property on the shore of the lake for visitors who arrive looking to participate in popular activities such as fishing, canoeing, jet skis and more.

The Nagambie area is also known as one of the places in Victoria where you can get some amazing wine. Names such as Mitchelton and Tahbilk dominate the area, Tahbilk for its heritage as being one of the oldest wineries in the state.

Mitchelton on the other hand is modern and renowned for its architecture with a huge winemaking complex consisting of a Restaurant, Art Gallery and hotel.

Around the town, you can visit the Goulburn Weir, Gold Mining sites, and Kirwans Bridge for starters. The town of Nagambie itself has a golf course, brewery, and a number of options for eating such as the local RSL, Thai by the Lake and the Eighteen Sixty wine bar just to name a few.

Contributed by Mark, who writes at Wyld Family Travel

Places to see in Victoria – Hepburn Springs

The towns of Daylesford and the lesser-known Hepburn Springs are two of the most delightful places to visit in Victoria. Approximately a two-and-a-half-hour drive from Melbourne, past the magnificent Macedon Ranges.

There are quite a few wineries along the way and a hidden waterfall too if you’re feeling brave enough for an adventure. All in all, making it a rather pleasant drive through the mountains.

The best things to do in Hepburn Springs are to eat yourself silly, spoil yourself at a spa treatment and enjoy a walk around the wonderful historical gardens. The twin towns boast wonderful food, wine and coffee as well as one of Australia’s best cideries at  Daylesford Cider .

The area is also brimming with local artists showcasing their work, historical buildings turned into galleries and antique stores galore. Now if you think that these two towns can’t get any better this area is incredibly LGBTQI-friendly.  Daylesford hosts a variety of LGBTQI events every year.

Contributed by Jean who blogs at Travelling Honeybird

The Macedon Ranges

The Macedon Ranges area is a short trip from Melbourne, perfect for weekend getaways or even a lazy Sunday drive. Consisting of the townships of Gisborne, Riddells Creek, Woodend, Macedon, Malmsbury, Lancefield, Romsey, Mount Macedon and Kyneton, this area has a rich history and breathtaking natural wonders, whilst also being a foodie haven for those looking to treat themselves.

From Kyneton’s historic Piper Street and mineral springs where you can pump sparkling water straight from the ground at the rest stop on Burton Avenue as you head past the Campaspe River, to Malmsbury and its incredible viaduct; through to Mount Macedon’s famous Memorial Cross and then, of course, the iconic Hanging Rock (yes, the very one from the movie!).

This area boasts a wealth of experiences suitable for families, couples and even the lone adventure traveller. Any of these towns are some of the best places to visit in Victoria and will make your holiday spectacular.

If you’re looking for a place to stay, look up the  Flop House   for a range of beautifully curated boutique homes awaiting your booking. And for food? The options are endless, although Major Tom’s in Kyneton has come highly recommended by locals if you’re looking for a burger!

Contributed by Leah who blogs at Kid Bucket List

Autumn in Victoria: 13 spectacular places to visit for amazing autumn colours

Victoria’s interesting places – Mildura

A remote town on the edge of the Outback, set on the banks of the beautiful Murray River, Mildura is an incredible region, with an irresistible appeal. Mildura is rated as one of the best places to visit in Victoria. A one-hour flight from Melbourne, or a six-hour drive, it is a fabulous base for some of the country’s most fascinating National Parks, water-based adventure, and local Australian produce.

Oozing regional Australian charm, Mildura is a very pretty town with sunny Mediterranean weather, riverbank walks, and the opportunity to drift down the Murray River aboard a luxury houseboat.

As far as nearby natural wonders are concerned, this is your base for the World Heritage-listed Mungo National Park (an important cultural site, with aboriginal relics that date back 45,000 years), Hattah-Kulkyne National Park with its beautiful bush setting and range of iconic wildlife, and the pink salt lakes of Murray Sunset National Park.

Mildura has been described as an ‘important Australian food bowl’, with adjacent agricultural districts and award-winning wines drawing foodies into town. You’ll find an abundance of grapes, citrus fruits, almonds, olives, countless varieties of vegetables and much more here.

There are award-winning wineries and oil farms, and no shortage of great places to eat in Mildura.

Mildura really does have it all, so put it on your list of towns to visit in Victoria soon! You will find plenty of accommodation options in Mildura for your stay

Contributed by Megan who blogs at Mapping Megan

Road trip Victoria: Our easy drive North East Victorian road trip itinerary will guide you!

If you are looking for the perfect spot for a relaxing weekend, a biking or hiking getaway with the kids or a romantic escape, Milawa in country Victoria should be on your list of towns to visit in Victoria. Situated in one of the wine and gourmet regions in the north of the state, Milawa is also a short hop from the regional centre of Wangaratta and is approximately 2 and ½ hours out of Melbourne.

Take a walk or a bike ride along the bike trails that surround Milawa and you’ll soon find yourself visiting the many cellar doors, farm gates and gourmet food stores.

Grab a map and pick up a bike at the local bike hire or borrow one from the Brown Brothers cellar door. Stop in at one of the cafés or restaurants for a leisurely lunch, ice cream or coffee break.

Try your hand at some cooking at Pizzini’s Wine Cooking School or sample some gourmet local cheese from Milawa’s historic cheese factory. Better still, you can just sit back and relax, wine in hand.

With a range of boutique accommodations, overlooking vineyards this gorgeous town will provide you with a retreat from reality, once you’re there you’ll find it very hard to go home. Milawa is definitely one of the best places to visit in Victoria with so much to offer.

Contributed by Julie who blogs at A Not So Young Woman Abroad

Victoria destinations – Echuca

Echuca is a stunning town and one that is filled to the brim with amazing Australian history. If you are a history buff then, Echuca is one of the best places to visit in Victoria.

Many people visit Echuca to ride the Murray River on one of the historic paddle steamers that were the lifeblood of the towns located along the Murray. These old streamers are amazing relics of the past that give joy to all who get to ride one.

While you are cruising the Murray you are also given a guide by the captain as to what boat you are riding in and a talk about how important the river was.

After you have enjoyed your cruise a wander through the Echuca Discovery Center gives you another view of how the Murray shaped Victoria in the early years of settlement.

If you are able to go on a guided tour of the centre and have one of the workers walk you through the history of the area. They will also tell you the stories of the town and how it became so popular after the filming of ‘All the Rivers Run’.

If you are travelling to Echuca with kids (or you are a kid at heart) you may want to take them a little out of town for a visit to the Kyabram fauna park or Cactus Country. For anyone interested in Silo Art there is also a small easily accessible silo art trail that is wonderful.

All this makes Echuca one of the best places to visit in Victoria. Find your place to stay in Echuca today.

Chiltern – hidden places to visit in Victoria

Chiltern is a historic town in Northern Victoria, Australia. You will find plenty of things to do in this little town. Explore Chiltern-Mt. Pilot National Park, is known for its eucalyptus forests old gold mining history and birdlife.

Wander the well-preserved Chiltern Historic Precinct, with gold rush-era buildings such as the old Chiltern Police lockup from the mid-1870s and supposedly Australia’s oldest grapevine. Enjoy the serenity of Lake Anderson, perfect for walking, picnics and birdwatching.

Don’t miss the town’s cosy eateries, and consider staying in charming bed-and-breakfasts or cottages. Chiltern offers history, nature, and relaxation in one quaint package.

Read more: Looking for Silo Art check out these 2 amazing Silo Art Trails in Northern Victoria.

Best places to visit in Western Victoria

Western Victoria is home to many of Victoria’s great attractions, and Western Victoria is one of the best places to visit in Victoria. The number one thing is the Great Ocean Road and the 12 Apostles. Many people go on an organised tour or take a road trip down Victoria’s coast.

This region is home to Geelong, Victoria’s largest provincial city, and Ballarat , Victoria’s largest inland city. There is a number of National Parks and major tourist attractions in towns such as Bendigo, Ballarat and Warrnambool. The Western district is known for its dairy farms and rolling green pastures.    

Aireys Inlet

Just before the historic arch that marks the start of the Great Ocean Road is the little town of Airey’s Inlet. Famous for its wide sweeping beaches and the iconic lighthouse, Airey’s (as the locals call it) is one of the most scenic best places to visit in Victoria.

For a small town, Airey’s packs a big punch and is the perfect weekend getaway or stop on your Great Ocean Road trip. Start your visit by taking a long walk along the beach at nearby Urquhart’s Bluff to watch the local surfers ride some huge waves and potter in rockpools.

After your beach walks, stop for a snack at Willows Teahouse below the Split Point lighthouse. From the cafe explore the beautiful clifftop walks and lookout spots. Several times a day there are guided tours of the lighthouse. On the tour, you can climb to the top and enjoy incredible views of the southern Victorian coastline. 

The Airey’s Pub is well known for its huge outdoor beer garden with views of the sea, pub menu and in-house craft brewery. You can spend a relaxing afternoon there taking in the sea views. Or, if you want a culture fix, head over the road and enjoy the exhibitions featuring local artists at the Eagle’s Nest Fine Art Gallery.

For a relaxing time away, Airey’s Inlet has to be one of the best places to visit in Victoria. Book your stay on the coast today at Airey’s Inlet

Contributed by Katy who blogs at Untold Morsels

Regional Victoria places to visit – Ballarat

Ballarat is one of the best places to visit in Victoria as it is one of the oldest towns in Victoria with so many activities for all ages. What makes Ballarat one of the best places to visit in Victoria is that there are so many fun places to explore.

Ballarat is a very easy place to get to being only 100 kilometres from Melbourne which can be done in a day trip from Melbourne or you can plan a trip to Ballarat for a few days. The possibilities for a visit to Ballarat are endless!

Sovereign Hill is its most famous attraction for Ballarat sightseeing and draws visitors from all over the state. Here, you can learn what it was like to be a gold miner in the area during the Gold Rush. It’s set up like an old mining town, and it’s fun for all ages.

You can pan for gold, dress up in old-style clothes and watch working exhibits where you can learn how blacksmiths worked or people made sweets. There are also mine tours.

But there is more to Ballarat than Sovereign Hill. You can also visit Kryal Castle to learn about medieval times. There was a maze, jousting and many demonstrations when we visited as well as the castle itself to walk through, although Kryal Castle is not actually a real castle!

Between these two Ballarat attractions, you could easily spend a day in Ballarat, but if you are around longer, there is also the Ballarat Wildlife Park, Ballarat Tramway Museum, Museum of Australian Democracy at Eureka (MADE) which is a small museum about the events of the Eureka Stockade. There is also a tram museum, beautiful botanical gardens, a wildlife park and many more features.

Contributed by Sharon who blogs at Simple and Smarter

With so many places to stay in Ballarat, you can easily use this map to find the perfect stay for your trip to Ballarat.

Loch Ard Gorge

Loch Are Gorge is a favourite enchanting destination with a legendary tale and one of the best places to visit in Victoria. The Gorge is named after a ship, called the Loch Ard, which in 1878 ran aground on Muttonbird Island. Out of 54 passengers and crew, only two teenagers survived. One of them was a young 15-year-old named Tom.

After washing up on shore, Tom heard cries for help coming from the water. Tom dove straight back into the water to rescue 17-year-old Eva. Once she was ashore, Tom then climbed out of the gorge to seek help. What a hero!

If that story doesn’t leave you stirred, the view surely will with its breathtaking high walls and the unrelenting ocean waves lapping the warm yellow sand. Enjoy the view from the top, but make time to actually climb down the stairs and let the sand get between your toes at one of the most beautiful places in Victoria.

For many visiting this area, this Great Ocean Road attraction is at the top of their list of best places to visit in Victoria for locals and international tourists alike.

Port Campbell is the closest town to stay to Loch Ard Gorge and the 12 Apostles.

Contributed by Erin who blogs at Explore with Erin

Cool places to visit in Victoria – Barwon Heads

Barwon Heads has changed dramatically over the years, it was originally a sleepy little beachside town with beach shack weekenders for Melbourne holidaymakers. Now you will find the town filled to the brim with everything new and shiny and rated as one of the best places to visit in Victoria in summer.

During Christmas and school holidays, towns on the Bellarine Peninsula swell with holidaymakers, wanting to make the best of the fun, sun sand and surfing. The main street is full of cafes and trendy shops but the fish and chip shop is still there and a town favourite.

The local pub hasn’t changed and is located right across from the caravan park, facing the beach it’s still a favourite place for everyone to end the day. You are still guaranteed to still get a great parma for a reasonable price. Barwon Heads has a great family-friendly beach just next to the bridge on the Barwon River, it’s shallow has no waves and is perfect for little kids.

For bigger kids, Raffles Beach is perfect for those wanting to learn how to surf and just enough waves to have fun. It can at times get rough and like any Australian beach, you need to be aware of rips and be a relatively good swimmer.  Search for great accommodation in Barwon Heads.

Contributed by Sally who blogs at our3kidsvtheworld

Cape Ottway

From the moment that you turn onto Lighthouse Road off the Great Ocean Road,  Victoria, it’s clear that Cape Otway is a very special location in Australia. As you drive through the Great Otway National Park, be sure to stop and take a closer look – the road is thickly forested with koala-inhabited gum trees on either side.

Some of them seem close enough to reach out and touch! If you can drag yourself away from these grey, furry little cuties, continue on down the road to the stunning Peninsula.

At the end of the road, you can visit the Cape Otway Lightstation. This significant tourist attraction hosts one of the most beautiful lighthouses in Australia, just one of several attractions grouped together for the one entrance fee ($19.50 per adult or $49.50 per family of four).

You can climb the staircase right up to the top of the lighthouse for spectacular ocean views, grab a bite to eat at the café or visit one of the several historical outbuildings and indigenous sites.

As if that wasn’t enough, there is, even more, to see at Cape Otway including the Otway Fly treetop walk . Located on a remote beach at Point Franklin, just a short drive and then bushwalk from the Light station you’ll find a historically significant dinosaur bone excavation dig. There’s so much to do and see at Cape Otway, Victoria – we think it’s one of the best places to visit in Victoria!

Contributed by Barbara who blogs at Lets Go Mum.

Discover hidden gems: 22 best things to do in Warrnambool

Holiday in Victoria near The 12 Apostles

Arguably the most well-known attraction on Victoria’s Great Ocean Road, the Twelve Apostles are a collection of limestone stacks just off the shore of the Port Campbell National Park and stand proudly at almost 150ft tall alongside the road making for the perfect road trip backdrop.

The pillars were christened with the name the 12 Apostles in the 1920s (prior to this they were called the Sow and Piglets!) – despite the fact, that there were only 9 at the time. And this number has since been reduced to 7 as the waves and wind that carved them out of the shoreline in this first place, have worn away and reclaimed two of the columns it originally created.

But with the nature of the coast and the extreme weather conditions, it faces every year, more columns are expected to develop over time (although there is no guarantee they’ll join the established lineup!)

The best way to experience the (remaining) Apostles is on the beautiful boardwalk that has been built and provides the perfect viewing platform out over the water. For a different view, you can also take a helicopter flight above and over them. And if you can, time your visit with sunrise or sunset. You won’t be disappointed and you will remember this as one of the most memorable and best places to visit in Victoria.

Contributed by Vicki who blogs at The Big Australia Bucket List

The Grampians

The Grampians are an absolute must when planning a trip to Melbourne and its surroundings. From large sandstone mountain ranges to waterfalls and meeting local Kangaroos, there are so many things to see and do. To reach this beautiful part of Victoria, you’re looking at a distance of 260 kilometres west of the Melbourne CBD and around 3 hours driving.

The area is renowned for hiking, rock climbing and other outdoor activities and can be enjoyed at your own leisure depending on the time you have allowed which makes the Grampians one of the best places to visit in Victoria for nature lovers.

If time is of the essence, you are able to see the main attractions in a short period of time, with a weekend more than plausible for ticking off those bucket list items.

Throughout the National Park, there are many attractions including Boroka Lookout, Mount William, The Pinnacle, The Balconies and Reed’s Lookout.

If there is one place to visit that is not to be missed, it’s the ever-so-popular Mackenzie Falls. With high rainfall throughout the year, the falls continue to flow and are the most breathtaking sight to behold.

If you want to finish your day in the most Australian fashion, a quick visit to the Halls Gap (one of the best towns to visit in Victoria for access to the Grampians) local football oval at dusk will allow you up close and personal with the native Kangaroos. A great way to complete a visit to not only the Grampians and Melbourne but also Australia. Book an amazing stay in Halls Gap

Contributed by Joey who blogs at JC Adventure Images

Geelong – Where to go on holiday in Victoria

Geelong is a city located just an hour’s drive from Melbourne. It is known for its rich history, scenic coastal views, and vibrant cultural scene, In recent years the Geelong waterfront has had an upgrade and a revival with new restaurants and green spaces.

In Geelong, you can explore the city’s historical sites, such as the Geelong Botanic Gardens, The Old Geelong Goal and the National Wool Museum. For those who like beer, a visit to the Little Creatures Brewery complex is a must. It is a great example of how Geelong’s industrial past has been repurposed for tourism.

For art lovers, the Geelong Art Gallery features a collection of Australian and international art and has over 6,000 works of art in its collection. Bike riders will love the Bellarine rail trail and for adventure seekers why not take a hot air balloon ride?

Many Visitors will start their travel to regional Victoria from Melbourne, especially if they are from interstate or overseas. Below you will find some information to make your initial stay in Melbourne easier before deciding where to travel in Victoria.

Warrnambool

Warrnambool is a coastal gem in southwestern Victoria! Explore the stunning Shipwreck Coast with its iconic Twelve Apostles and Loch Ard Gorge. The most well-known tourist attraction in town is Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village, where you will learn about the area’s maritime history.

Witness the iconic Southern Right Whales in season at Logan’s Beach. Stroll along the picturesque Lake Pertobe, perfect for family fun. Discover the vibrant art scene at Warrnambool Art Gallery and indulge in local cuisine at top-notch eateries.

Whether you’re into nature, history, or culture, Warrnambool has something for everyone. Don’t miss this coastal haven on your Australian adventure!

Planning to explore Victoria more?  Here are the best things to do in Halls Gap, the gateway to the Grampians!

The best places to visit in the Melbourne area

Melbourne is known for its vibrant cultural scene, excellent food, coffee, and wine, as well as its beautiful parks and gardens. The city of Melbourne is divided into several suburbs and areas, each with its own unique character and attractions. Some of the most popular suburbs include:

There are many things to do and see in the suburb of St Kilda in Melbourne, Victoria, Australia. St Kilda is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, offering a variety of attractions and activities.

One of the main draws of St Kilda is its beautiful beach, which is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing. The website also highlights the many cafes, bars, and restaurants in the area, which offer a diverse range of cuisine and atmosphere.

In addition to the beach and dining options, the website suggests several other activities to try in St Kilda. These include visiting the iconic Luna Park amusement park, exploring the St Kilda Botanical Gardens, or taking a stroll down the lively Acland Street to browse the many shops and boutiques.

Getting to Melbourne

• Melbourne is the second biggest city in Australia. Melbourne International Airport is 23 kilometres from the city centre.
• Melbourne is serviced by many international airlines and budget carriers Jetstar, Tiger, Scoot and AirAsia just to name a few. You can check the prices of international flights to Australia with  Kiwi . Domestic flights can be booked with Webjet  
• There is no direct public transport link with Melbourne Airport. You can catch the Skybus or you can book an airport transfer with Suntransfers who we have personally used on many occasions.
• You can book a rental car and have it waiting for you at Melbourne Airport so you can road trip to all the best places to visit in Victoria.

Getting around Melbourne

Myki is Melbourne’s ticketing system for travel on the city’s trains, trams and buses. International and interstate visitors coming to Victoria can buy a  Myki Explorer pack . The Myki pack combines a ready-to-use Myki card, visitor information and special offers for travellers looking for all the best places to visit in Victoria.

It’s a great option for visitors who choose to explore Melbourne and regional Victoria by public transport! You need to touch your Myki card on and off when you use the public transport system. The   Free Tram Zone  in Melbourne’s CBD makes it easy to move around the city. On the free trams, you do not need to touch on and off with a Myki. Download the Free Tram Zone map on the  Maps page .

If you are using public transport in Melbourne here are some added ideas on top things to see and do:

• Shrine Of Remembrance
• Watch an AFL game
• Melbourne Zoo entry
• Federation Square
• Street Art Tour
• Picnic on the Yarra River
• SeaLife Aquarium
• Melbourne Museum
• Queen Victoria Market
• Melbourne Sports Experience
• Balloon ride at Sunrise
• Legoland Discovery Centre
• Skydive over St Kilda

Discover More: 23 spectacular Melbourne tourist attractions you can’t miss

Where to stay in Melbourne

• Melbourne has accommodation options for every budget from hostels to apartments and hotel rooms
• Hostels in Melbourne can start from as little as $21 a night for a shared dorm room.
• You can search Melbourne apartment accommodation offerings .
• Hotels in Melbourne generally start from around $100 a night for a double room and increase incrementally as the luxury rating rises towards 5 stars. Google states that a 3-star average is around $113, and a 5-star average is $314 for a night stay. You can compare and book your stay on Agoda or Trip Advisor.

There are so many best places to visit in Victoria so put some of these amazing places on your next Victorian road trip itinerary.

We hope this article from us here at Explore Victoria has inspired you to embark on your adventure in Victoria, Australia, from popular  caravan parks  and  pristine beaches  to drives along the  Great Ocean Road . Enjoy weekends away on the Mornington Peninsula and discover the cosmopolitan charm of  Melbourne, Victoria ,  with a range of experiences for every traveller who wants to visit Victoria.

Whether you’re drawn to the rugged beauty of the Grampians, the cultural richness of Ballarat , or the autumn colours of  Bright  and  Northern Victoria , there’s no shortage of hidden gems waiting to be discovered in Victoria.

Even if you love  exploring Gippsland  or driving the  Great Alpine Road , Victoria has something special for you, and there is so much more for you to discover. If you are looking for more incredible and best places to  visit in Melbourne  or more travel in Victoria destinations,  Explore Victoria  has some more articles below for you to check out. Expand your horizons and get out and about in Victoria, Australia, for an unforgettable experience. 

If you have an idea, attraction, or top spot in Victoria, please comment or email us at  [email protected] .

More best places to visit in Victoria inspiration

The best free things to do in Melbourne

The very best things to do in Lakes Entrance

Fun things to do with kids in Victoria

Mark Wyld is a passionate writer and explorer, weaving tales inspired by a deep love for his home state of Victoria. With local knowledge, Mark seeks to share insights and experiences that captivate and inspire readers. When not immersed in writing, you can find him working in Disability Support or spending time with family and friends. Follow Mark for a journey through Victoria’s best sights, tastes and attractions.

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12 Apostles, Great Ocean Road, Victoria © Great Ocean Road Tourism / Belinda Van Zanen

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• Top things to do
• Getting to Victoria

With roaring sporting events, famed coastal drives and sensational food and wine, Victoria boasts both the heart-pumping and the heavenly.

The foodie, cultural and sports-loving capital city of  Melbourne  has enough to keep visitors entertained for days. But better yet, Victoria’s most enticing experiences are all within a short drive from the city. From mountain vistas to cool-climate wines and little penguins, whichever direction you turn, Victoria will serve up something unforgettable.  

Despite being one of Australia's smaller state, Victoria packs a punch with diverse attractions, stunning natural wonders, prolific wildlife and a food and wine scene that celebrates the state's producers. From the ski fields to the beaches, a holiday to Victoria has something for everyone.

• Climb the peaks of the Grampians or hit the slopes in the Australian Alps
• Drive the Great Ocean Road and see the iconic 12 Apostles
• Indulge in Victoria's wine scene in the Yarra Valley and Mornington Peninsula

Victoria's capital, Melbourne, is one of the most easily accessed Australian cities; you can fly direct to Melbourne from several international hubs, as well as from every Australian capital city.

From Melbourne Airport it’s an easy 20-minute taxi or bus ride to the city centre. From there, you can explore Victoria’s regions by car, train or bus. While flying is convenient, the ultimate way to cruise into the state is on a road trip. Take the five-day  Great Ocean Road journey  from Adelaide or drive along  New South Wales'  south coast on an epic  journey from Sydney to Melbourne. 

Popular destinations in Victoria

The Great Ocean Road

The Mornington Peninsula

Daylesford & the Macedon Ranges

The Yarra Valley & Dandenong Ranges

High Country & King Valley

Trips and itineraries.

6 days on the Great Southern Touring Route

Grampians National Park family itinerary

Melbourne to Adelaide: A 5-day road trip

Sydney to Melbourne coastal drive

14 days of fine dining, wilderness and luxury

Sydney to Melbourne inland drive

Australia's South in 14 days

Things to do in victoria.

Top rooftop bars in Melbourne

Must-stop places on the Great Ocean Road

The best walks and hikes at Wilsons Promontory

Looking for more inspiration? Go to visitvictoria.com

Travellers' stories, explore australia's states and territories.

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2 Days in Victoria: How to Plan a Victoria Weekend Itinerary

You can do a lot worse than spending two days in Victoria: the blend of natural beauty and culture here is tough to beat.

So, I thought I’d devise the ultimate Victoria weekend itinerary to show off our beautiful city’s magnetic allure.

Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or just looking to soak in the city’s vibrant culture, this jam-packed itinerary has got you covered.

So buckle up, and let’s dive into your perfect 2 day itinerary for Victoria BC!

2 Days in Victoria BC: A Perfect 2 Day Itinerary

Day 1: From the Inner Harbour to Lush Gardens

Morning: kick-start your adventure at the inner harbour.

• Explore the picturesque Inner Harbour.
• Enjoy a scenic breakfast at a local café.

Your first day begins at Victoria’s iconic Inner Harbour. This bustling area is home to some of Victoria’s top attractions and offers a fantastic starting point for your adventure.

Grab a hearty breakfast at one of Victoria’s best restaurants and prepare to be dazzled.

10 Acres Bistro is highly recommended for a late brunch, while Bear and Joey Cafe , Blue Fox Cafe and Jam Cafe are great breakfast options just a quick walk from the Inner Harbour.

Half the fun is wandering in and out of the area’s small boutiques, cafes and art galleries .

You can also take the famous ‘pickle boat’ Victoria Harbour Ferries to go through the area’s main attractions. Tours and even a local pub crawl are offered via these small iconic yellow vessels – but it’s a little early for that!

Taking a leisurely walk along the scenic waterfront David Foster Harbour Pathway is also a must. From here, you can make your way to Fisherman’s Wharf to grab some fish and chips, check out some shops, or just take in the atmosphere.

Looking to take the guesswork out of it? Schedule one of the best Victoria city tours to get up to speed with knowledgeable guides first.

⛴️ Coming in from the Lower Mainland? Check out our guide on how to get to Victoria from Vancouver .

Protip:  Visit via the Vancouver to Victoria seaplane to maximize your time on the island. It can whisk you away to the Inner Harbour from downtown Vancouver in less than 30 minutes!

Afternoon: Dive into History at the Royal BC Museum & Parliament Buildings

• Discover British Columbia’s rich history at the Royal BC Museum.
• Take a guided tour of the Parliament Buildings.
• Grab a quick lunch or have a picnic.

After filling up on some tasty grub, it’s time to get your culture fix.

Begin by visiting the renowned Royal BC Museum , which boasts impressive exhibits showcasing BC’s natural and human history . If you’re in town with children, nearby Miniature World always makes for a good visit – and shouldn’t burn up too much time.

Once you’ve had your fill of fascinating facts, head over to the nearby BC Parliament Buildings for a guided tour and learn about Victoria’s political past and present. A wonderful example of neo-baroque architecture , these iconic buildings have dominated the Victoria skyline since 1897.

The expansive lawn outside these Victorian-era masterpieces also makes for a fantastic picnic spot for those looking to save a little cash.

The Red Barn Market and Thrifty Foods are a short walk down Menzie Street.

Otherwise, nearby Red Fish Blue Fish on Wharf Street is a great spot to grab some fish and chips – a Victoria essential.

Looking for a room that’s close to the action? Check out our list of the best Victoria hotels and Victoria hostels for accommodation at every price point.

Evening: Embark on a Sunset Whale Watching Tour

• Be mesmerized by the beautiful Salish Sea and Victoria waterfront at golden hour.
• View majestic killer whales, humpbacks and grey whales in their natural environment.
• Grab a seafood dinner along Wharf Street.

The ultimate way to cap off your first day is to soak in a piece of BC’s unparalleled natural beauty .

There is a whole host of Victoria whale watching tours available right from the heart of the city’s Inner Harbour. But for my money, the optimal time to take advantage of the tremendous ocean views that they afford is at golden hour .

You’ll set out from the Prince of Whales dock right in front of the iconic Fairmont Empress Hotel. From there, you’ll cruise out to the Salish Sea to experience a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity .

You’ll get to see majestic southern resident killer whales , acrobatic humpbacks, and gargantuan grays in their own natural habitat.

Then, just as the sun sets, you’ll head back to town to indulge in a sumptuous dinner at one of the nearby restaurants before calling it a night. You can find a nice seafood dinner at Finn’s or Boom + Batten , or hit up Aura for some delectable Asian-influenced local cuisine.

Two Days in Victoria: Day 2

Morning: connect with nature at beacon hill park.

• Take a leisurely walk through Beacon Hill Park.
• Enjoy the panoramic views at Mile Zero.
• Check out the Dallas Road Waterfront Trail and Clover Point Park.

Start your second day with a leisurely morning walk through sprawling Beacon Hill Park.

From its picturesque ponds to its lush gardens , the park is a haven for nature lovers . Don’t forget to check out Mile Zero, the starting point of the Trans-Canada Highway , for some stunning ocean views.

Across the street, you can walk along the Dallas Road Waterfront Trail toward beautiful Clover Point Park.

This is a great spot to embark on a Victoria Bike Tour , go for a jog or simply relax and breathe in the cool oceanic air. If you didn’t go yesterday, a quick lunch at Fisherman’s Wharf is a great way to fuel up for the afternoon.

Now that you’ve had a couple of hours of peace and tranquillity in some of  Victoria’s Best Parks & Gardens , you should be primed and ready for an afternoon of sightseeing.

Early Afternoon: Experience the Magic of the Butchart Gardens

• Be mesmerized by the beautiful Butchart Gardens
• Receive round-trip transportation to Brentwood Bay from the Inner Harbour

You’ll kick off your first day with a visit to enchanting Butchart Gardens , a National Historic Site of Canada .

Stroll through the lush floral displays, soaking in the fragrant scents and vibrant colours . Imagine walking through 55 acres of meticulously designed gardens with a stunning array of flowers, plants, and trees from all around the world.

It’s like stepping into a living work of art, with vibrant colours and delightful fragrances surrounding you at every turn.

This world-class botanical garden attracts over one million visitors per year ! This makes it far and away Victoria’s most popular attraction.

The gardens are located in Brentwood Bay, 40 minutes north of Victoria. Don’t have a vehicle? Well, don’t worry. You can get a convenient express shuttle from right in front of the Empress Hotel by clicking the button below:

Related: The Best Day Trips from Victoria

Late Afternoon/Early Evening: Dive into Chinatown and Oldtown’s Rich Culture

• Wander through Canada’s oldest Chinatown.
• Browse local boutiques and galleries in Oldtown.

Next up, it’s time for some personal exploration of Victoria’s Chinatown and Oldtown districts.

Meander through the narrow streets of Canada’s oldest Chinatown , taking in the unique architecture and vibrant atmosphere.

Walking through the narrow, vibrant streets , you’ll be transported back in time and feel the rich culture and heritage all around you .

One of the most iconic spots in Victoria’s Chinatown is Fan Tan Alley , which happens to be the narrowest street in Canada . This charming alley is lined with quirky little shops, galleries, and cafes just waiting for you to explore.

Then, make your way over to nearby Oldtown . One of the area’s highlights is the iconic Market Square , which has been a bustling hub of the city for over a century.

It’s the perfect spot to grab a bite, do some shopping, or just soak in the ambiance.

Evening: Enjoy a Taste of Victoria’s Culinary and Nightlife Scene

• Savour the flavours of Victoria’s diverse cuisine.
• Take in some live music, or check out the local nightlife.

As your two days in Victoria, BC draws to a close, treat yourself to a mouthwatering dinner at one of the city’s many diverse eateries. Whether you’re craving seafood, farm-to-table dishes, or international cuisine , there’s something to suit every palate. Or you could even embark on a Victoria food tour .

Little Jumbo combines farm-to-table dining with the best cocktails in the city in a room with an old-school speakeasy-type vibe.

Looking for something a little more traditional? Il Terazzo offers top-notch Italian cuisine in a romantic Tuscan courtyard setting.

After dinner, why not catch some live music or check out the local nightlife? Victoria is known as the craft beer capital of Canada . So you can hit up any of the dozens of breweries, pubs and taphouses that make up the Victoria craft beer scene for a tasting. Head out alone or participate in a Victoria Brewery Tour . The choice is up to you!

Otherwise, you can head over to Courtenay Street, where you’ll find 3 bars and a nightclub in one block outside the Strathcona Hotel.

⛴️ Coming from Vancouver? Read my post on how to get to Victoria from Vancouver

Victoria 48 Hour Itinerary Runners-Up

So, you’ve already checked out our top-notch recommendations for an unforgettable weekend itinerary in Victoria.

But by no means is this an exhaustive list. And we recognize that all travellers have different tastes (and budgets).

So, we thought we’d sprinkle in a few extra hidden gems for you to explore:

• Visit Craigdarroch Castle – Step back in time with a tour of this beautifully restored Victorian-era mansion , complete with ornate stained glass windows and elegant furnishings.
• Take a Victoria Craft Beer Tour – Sample the best local brews with a guided tour of Victoria’s thriving craft beer scene, visiting award-winning breweries and learning about the brewing process.
• See the City on Two-Wheels – Victoria is known to be Canada’s most bikeable city. Rent a bike and explore on your own, or take part in an organized Victoria Bike Tour to see the city’s top sights by bike.
• Climb the Malahat Skywalk – A 600-metre elevated walkway that rises above the coastal rainforest below and rewards visitors with incredible views. Located 35 minutes north of town, shuttles are available from downtown Victoria.
• Hatley Castle – Explore the magnificent Edwardian estate, once a military college and now home to Royal Roads University, surrounded by lush gardens and forest trails.
• Take a stroll on the Ogden Point Breakwater – Take a leisurely stroll along this impressive breakwater structure, providing unbeatable ocean views and the chance to spot marine life.
• Check out the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria – Discover an extensive collection of Canadian and international art, including works by renowned artists such as Emily Carr and Indigenous creators.
• Go Kayaking or Paddleboarding – Explore Victoria’s picturesque coastline with a guided or self-guided tour, getting up close with marine wildlife and hidden coves.
• Take a Victoria Hop on Hop off Tour – One of the best ways to cover as much ground as possible is to see Victoria via the Hop on Hop off bus. You can create your own customized itinerary from 15 available stops sprinkled around the city’s most important sites.

Victoria Weekend Itinerary FAQs

What’s the best time of year to visit victoria, bc.

By Canadian standards, Victoria has a very mild climate. In fact, it is known as Canada’s only Mediterranean micro-climate. This makes it a great destination all year round. However, the most popular time to visit is between May and September, when the weather is warmest and outdoor attractions are in full bloom.

How do I get to Victoria from Vancouver?

There are several ways to reach Victoria from the Lower Mainland. If you have a vehicle, the easiest way is the 90-minute ferry from Vancouver to Victoria . If not, the most economical method is the Vancouver to Victoria bus.

If you’re willing to spend a little more, the quickest and most exciting method of transport is easily the 30-minute seaplane flight from downtown Vancouver to the Inner Harbour.

What is the best way to get from Seattle to Victoria?

The quickest and most efficient way to get from Seattle to Victoria is via the Victoria Clipper Ferry. This passenger-only ferry departs from Pier 69 in downtown Seattle and travels to Belleville Terminal in the Inner Harbour in 2 hours and 45 minutes.

Can I explore Victoria, BC, on foot?

Yes, Victoria is a very walkable city, and many of its top attractions are within easy walking distance of one another. Public transportation is also available if you prefer not to walk. Alternatively, Victoria is chock full of bike lanes, paths and trails. So renting a bike is a great way to get around the city.

Are there any other attractions in Victoria, BC, I should consider visiting?

Absolutely! This weekend itinerary just scratches the surface of what Victoria has to offer. Some other popular attractions include Craigdarroch Castle, Fisherman’s Wharf, and the Victoria Butterfly Gardens. And if you have the time and resources for a side trip, the new Malahat Skywalk provides incredible panoramic views of the local rainforest, the Gulf Islands and the Salish Sea.

Planning Two Days in Victoria BC Canada?

We hope this blog article on the perfect weekend itinerary for Victoria, BC has given you a taste of what this charming city has in store for you. I assure you once you visit, you’ll quickly begin to understand the hype.

With its beautiful natural scenery, rich history, and vibrant culture, Victoria is a destination that will capture your heart and leave you longing for more.

So, what are you waiting for? It’s time to pack your bags, get onto the ferry, and embark on the adventure of a lifetime with your new Victoria weekend itinerary!

Enjoy your two days in Victoria ⛴️

Related posts

How to Spend One Day in Victoria BC in 2024

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Victoria In August: A Summer Island Paradise

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Home » Travel Guides » Australia » 15 Best Places to Visit in Victoria (Australia)

15 Best Places to Visit in Victoria (Australia)

Victoria is a great place to travel, and a great place to live, too: its state capital, Melbourne, has been ranked the most liveable city 6 years in a row by the Economist, and it’s also been voted the world city with the best coffee, beating out the traditional favorites of Rome and Vienna.

But with 2.6 million international visitors flocking to Victoria in 2016 alone, there’s plenty to offer outside of Melbourne’s urban buzz: drive the famed Great Ocean Road, relax on the beach at a coastal village, enjoy the splendour of a national park, or check out the adorable little fairy penguin colony at Phillip Island.

There’s so much to do in Victoria that if you can, devote a few weeks to exploring. You’ll experience a fascinating insight into Australian city and country culture, meet plenty of friendly locals, and make memories to last a lifetime.

Lets explore the best places to visit in Victoria :

1. Grampians National Park

This stunning national park boasts exceptionally scenic diversity: from rugged sandstone ridges to lush waterfalls and colorful Spring wildflowers, you’ll find many picture-perfect shots for your photo album: the sunset views are an absolute must-see.

The Grampians are the home to many Australian marsupials and native birds, so it’s a great spot for fauna-spotting while you enjoy the many walking trails in the area  There’s also fascinating examples of ancient indigenous art.

If you make a small trip outside the park to Ararat or Halls Gap, there’s plenty of gorgeous modern art by local studios too, and Ararat is a popular destination in its own right, particularly interesting for its eerie ghost tours.

From Melbourne : Grampians National Park Great Escape Tour

2. Torquay and the Great Ocean Road

Torquay is an adorable seaside resort town known for being the gateway to the Great Ocean Road, but it’s well worth a visit in its own right: its famous for its surf beaches, including the world famous Bells Beach, and if you visit during Easter you’ll be able to see some of the world’s best surfers in action at the Bells Beach Rip Curl Pro.

The Surf Coast walk is a wonderful, relaxing journey, or you could just enjoy some sunbathing! If you’re in the mood for a romantic holiday destination, Torquay is perfect: the Surfcoast Cottages and Bells Estate Cottages are adorable, and there’s plenty of tasty dining options here.

From Torquay, many travelers will continue onto the Australian Heritage-listed 243-km Great Ocean Road, the backdrop for many an international car commercial with its gorgeous coastal and mountain views, charming towns like Apollo Bay, and yet more of the pristine white-sand beaches that Australia is rightly world-famous for.

Book online : Reverse Great Ocean Road Full-Day Trip

3. Great Otway National Park

The Otways are a very popular detour for drivers on the Great Ocean Road, and are considered an iconic Victorian experience; they’re popular with locals, interstate and international travelers alike.

Stop in a few towns on your way, and make sure to take the time to explore the Great Otway National Park (if you’re a daredevil, maybe even try the zipline!)

4. Phillip Island

Just under 2 hours by car, with a bridge linking it to the mainland, Phillip Island is a popular day-tripping destination for Melbournites and tourists alike.

The island is best known for its adorable colony of Little Penguins, one of Australia’s most popular tourist attractions.

The penguins return to shore en masse every sunset; visitors can view them from several different locations, such as the Penguin Parade viewing platform or the underground facility; there’s also the option of the Ultimate Penguin Tour, which offers a more personal and intimate penguin encounter.

The visitor centre is also very informative and interesting.

Visiting the penguin colony is a must-do, but there’s plenty more on Phillip Island to enjoy: a koala conservation centre, an animal park, and Warook Farm – a fully working farm which is over a century old.

The island is also for its excellent beaches, which are popular with swimmers and surfers alike, as well as various family-oriented activities such as the Islantis Surf Experience, A Maze’n Things, a chocolate factory, and a summer carnival that has been running for over 50 years.

The island also boasts several wineries, and many excellent restaurants.

Complete day trip: Phillip Island: Penguins and Wildlife Full-Day Tour

5. Alpine National Park

The Alpine National Park is home to two of Victoria’s best known mountains, Mt Buller and Mt Hotham, both of which operate alpine resorts that are famous throughout Australia as winter sports destinations.

Of course, spring and summer in the Alpine National Park is an entirely different experience, so it’s worth making trips at various times of year to the Park if you have the chance! The scenery is stunning, with gorgeous flora and fauna, especially in wildflower season.

The walking and biking trails are great for an outdoorsy holiday.

Both Mt Hotham and Mt Buller offer a variety of summer activities and events, from abseiling to fireworks and film festivals, so it’s worth checking their respective websites to see what’s on.

Bendigo offers a fascinating insight into Victoria’s past.

Located just under 2 hours drive from Melbourne, as well as being easily accessible by train, Bendigo was a gold rush boomtown in the Victorian era.

There are many well-preserved examples of Victorian architecture in the town, making Bendigo famous for its heritage buildings and gold rush history alike; at one point, the output of Victoria’s goldmines were higher than anywhere else in the world besides California, with almost 1 million kilograms of gold having been extracted in Bendigo alone since mining began in the 1850s.

Like the gold rushes in the US, the Victorian gold rush brought in an influx of migrants from within Australia and overseas, transforming the town from a quiet sheep station to a major settlement.

Some popular sites for heritage and cultural tourists to visit in this now-thriving modern city are the Discovery of Gold Monument, the Bendigo Tramways Museum, the Golden Dragon museum (which commemorates the Chinese population which developed during the gold rush, peaking at 20% of the town’s population in the 1860s) and the Joss House Temple, as well as several buildings that are listed on the Victorian Heritage Register: the Bendigo Town Hall (built in 1859), the Old Post Office, the Law Courts (1892), the Sacred Heart Cathedral (1896), Shamrock Hotel (1897), and the Memorial Military Museum (1921).

The growing city has much to offer beyond heritage and cultural tourism: lovely national parks, a science museum, the excellent Bendigo Art Gallery, and the Bendigo Botanic Gardens which overlook the gorgeous Lake Weeroona.

For a wonderfully informative taste gold rush history, the Central Deborah Goldmine can’t be beat – this subterranean tour of a genuine historical mine shaft is a very memorable experience (although perhaps not ideal for the claustrophobic). You can even pan for gold at the end of your visit!

7. Wilsons Promontory National Park

Victoria’s largest coastal wilderness area is beloved by locals and tourists alike, with the opportunity to get close to a wide variety of Australian native flora and fauna; “the Prom”, as it is nicknamed, is the home to many kangaroos, emus, wombats, echidnas, and gorgeous birdlife.

As the Prom is well-touristed, these animals are very used to people, and will be very friendly to you if you’ve got some feed to offer! The walking trails at the Prom are lovely, and it’s also a great spot for relaxing on the beach.

It’s a popular location for camping, but also for romantic getaways, so you’re sure to find accommodation that suits your needs as well.

Available tour : Wilsons Promontory: 2.5-Hour Wilderness Cruise

8. Mornington Peninsula

The Mornington Peninsula is a lovely little day-trip from the hustle and bustle of Melbourne; just over an hour away (and a very pleasant drive), you’ll find a different world.

The peninsula is famous for its wineries, cherries and berries, as well as produce straight from the farm-gate (and tasty restaurant fare, as well!). It’s also a popular foraging spot, including for sea spray herb, seaweed and mushrooms (Mushroom Tours offers helpful advice on distinguishing from the poisonous and the palatable!)

Like many regional attractions, the gorgeous walking trails on the peninsula shouldn’t be missed, but there’s also plenty to do in the towns.

The Peninsular Hot Spring in Sorrento are particularly enjoyable, especially as natural hot springs in Australia are few and far between.

Rosebud and Rye boast many family attractions, and if you’re in the mood for a beachside tipple, Portsea has a lovely pub.

The bright, colorful shacks along the beach at Mount Martha make it well worth a visit too.

There are several national parks on the peninsula, spanning over 25,000 hectares in total.

They include lovely sites such as Cape Schank (home of a lighthouse build in 1859 which still operates today, as well as being a perfect spot to catch the sunset).

Book online : Mornington Peninsula & Hot Springs Tour

• 9.  Healesville Sanctuary

Located in the heart of the scenic Yarra Valley, this sanctuary is widely considered to be the best spot in Australia to see and interact with Australian wildlife in unspoiled natural habitat.

Get up close and personal with all manner of famous Aussie animals: kangaroos, koalas, emus, wombats and even platypuses (the sanctuary’s most iconic species). There’s also several interesting “wild encounters” available, such as “wombat pat & play”, “wade with the platypus” and a dingo encounter (apparently they sometimes give visitors a kiss on the cheek!) These uniquely Australian experiences make the sanctuary a trip to remember.

Book online : Healesville Sanctuary General Admission Ticket

10. St Kilda

Melbourne has a lot to offer visitors, but a particular must-see is St Kilda.

This suburb boasts a wide range of attractions, from beachside relaxation to a thriving nightlife scene, the famous Esplanade Markets, and some of the best food in the city (if not the state). The suburb is quite ethnically diverse, and Acland Street in particular is well-known for its Greek and Jewish bakeries and cake shops, so it’s a perfect spot if you’ve got a sweet tooth.

There’s also many vegetarian restaurants here (particularly noteworthy is the pay-as-you-feel Lentil as Anything).

St Kilda is also known for its boutique shopping, vintage finds, and its iconic colorful beach shacks.

The pier is gorgeous, especially when it’s lit up at night and you can go penguin-spotting.

The botanic gardens are also a lovely way to work up an appetite for the excellent local fare (or alternatively, work off that delicious cake!)

You’ll also find Luna Park here, an iconic amusement park opened in 1912. The Scenic Railway was opened in the Park the same year, making it the world’s oldest continually-operating rollercoaster (with fantastic views of Port Phillip Bay). It’s free to enter, just pay for what you ride, and it’s fun even just for a walk around.

11. Fitzroy

Fitzroy is described by Time Out as an “inner-city mecca for all things cool and kooky”; vintage shopping, a vibrant bar and pub scene, a thriving alternative subculture, and delicious restaurants serving a wide range of Australian and international food, generally at very reasonable prices.

The best thing about Fitzroy is definitely the atmosphere – it’s a fun area just for a wander around – but there’s also lots of live music events going on at any time, as well as a variety of markets, art events, etc.

A visit to the in.cube8r Fitzroy Emporium and Gallery is also highly recommended.

12. Carlton Gardens

The Carlton Gardens are a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a short walk from Melbourne’s city centre.

The complex includes the Royal Exhibition Building, Imax Cinema, and Melbourne Museum, all of which are well worth a visit.

The gardens are a gorgeous example of Victorian landscaping, as well as being noteworthy for their biodiversity.

The Royal Exhibition Building is a very attractive example of heritage architecture.

You’ll also find plenty of wildlife in the area, such as possums, kookaburras, and tawny frogmouths; there’s even bats at night! There are three major fountains in the complex as well: the Exhibition, French and Westgarth Drinking fountains.

The area makes for a pleasant and easily accessible day out for Melbournians and visitors to the city.

13. Daylesford

Daylesford is a gorgeous spa town roughly an hour and a half from Melbourne, making it very popular with both locals and tourists.

Originally established as a gold-mining town, Daylesford has been a popular spa destination for a century.

The town is famous for its natural spring mineral spas; the broader area of the town and surrounds are home to over 80% of Australia’s effervescent mineral water.

As well as its many spas, Daylesford is known for its wineries, galleries, restaurants, and its gorgeous lake views.

The Wombat Hill Botanical Gardens are also a lovely attraction, and the stunning Hepburn Regional Park is only a stone’s throw away.

14. Dandenong Ranges

The Dandenong Ranges are a low mountain range on the outskirts of Melbourne, 35km from the city centre.

Gorgeous, lush and green, they make for a popular nature day-trip for the locals, as well as a must-see for tourists.

In particular, the popular Puffing Billy scenic railroad is a great way to enjoy the beauty of the Ranges.

The highest point is Mount Dandenong, at 633 metres.

You’ll find great farm-gate produce here, breathtaking bushwalks, lovely bed-and-breakfasts, sweet little towns, immaculate gardens, and well-preserved Australian architecture.

There’s also plenty of wildlife to encounter in the Ranges: kangaroos, koalas, wombats, and more!

15. Ballarat

Ballarat is another famed gold-rush boom town, now a thriving city with great cafes and restaurants, and many events to attract the modern traveler as well (the Ballarat Beer Festival and the Summer of Sound are particularly popular). The Ballarat Art Gallery is also a must-see, a stroll around the lake is a fun way to while away some time, and the Ballarat Wildlife Park is a great spot for a koala fix!

Like Bendigo, it has done a fantastic job of preserving its history: there are plenty of examples of heritage architecture to be found, and the fascinating Museum of Australian Democracy at Eureka is actually located on the historic site of the 1854 Eureka Stockade, the site of a renowned rebellion against the colonial authority of the UK that was a crucial moment in the history of Australia’s road to becoming an independent democracy.

Sovereign Hill is a particularly enjoyable tourist site in Ballarat; this open-air museum and historical park has been described as Australia’s best outdoor museum, and it will truly make you feel like you’ve traveled back in time to the heady days of the beginning of the gold rush over 150 years ago! The experience is very authentic, and highly informative; you can go underground and enjoy a fully-guided gold mine tour, visit 1850s shops, see steam-driven machinery in operation, and have a chat with the various fully-costumed staff members “plying their trades” as candlemakers, wheelwrights and candy-makers of yore.

(Of course, it’s also a fantastic spot for photo opportunities!)

8km outside of Ballarat, you’ll find Kryal Castle, biling itself as “Australia’s only medieval adventure park and resort”. There’s something a little out-of-place about jousting knights and dragons in the middle of Australia at the height of summer, but it’s still a lot of fun, and fantastic to keep any smaller travelers in your group entertained.

15 Best Places to Visit in Victoria (Australia):

• Grampians National Park
• Torquay and the Great Ocean Road
• Great Otway National Park
• Phillip Island
• Alpine National Park
• Wilsons Promontory National Park
• Mornington Peninsula
• Carlton Gardens
• Dandenong Ranges

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The Best Things to Do in Canada

22 of the Best Things to Do in Victoria, BC

May 5, 2020 By Matthew G. Bailey 13 Comments

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Things to Do in Victoria – Last updated: January 10th, 2023

When it comes to beautiful Canadian cities, Victoria is definitely high on the list. Located on the southern tip of Vancouver Island, Victoria is British Columbia’s capital and one of the oldest cities in the Pacific Northwest. A British settlement since 1843 and named after Queen Victoria, the city is home to a variety of historic buildings, including the beautiful parliament buildings and the world-famous Empress Hotel. The city is also home to the oldest Chinatown in Canada, vibrant First Nations communities who have called this place home long before European settlement, and is widely known as “The Garden City” thanks to its mild weather and almost year-round gardens.

Victoria is also ranked as one of the top 20 cities worldwide for its quality of life and is relatively snow-free in the winter months, something rather unusual for a Canadian city. Another benefit of visiting Victoria is the city’s surroundings, which include a stunning Pacific coastline, lush rainforest, and beautiful mountains. It’s also conveniently located near both Vancouver, BC, and Seattle, Washington.

If you’re looking to visit a beautiful laid-back city surrounded by outdoor adventure and nature, Victoria should definitely be on your bucket list. In this Victoria BC Travel Guide, we’ll share with you some of the best things to do in Victoria while also sharing some tips on saving money, how to get around, where to stay, and much more.

Planning your trip to Victoria last minute?

Below are some of the top tours, hotels, and more! Don’t forget to plan ahead when considering the top things to do in Victoria!

🇨🇦 Top Activities and Tours in Victoria:

• Best Whale-Watching Tour : If there’s one activity in Victoria that you shouldn’t miss, it’s a whale-watching tour. This is one of the best places in the world to see Orca Whales!
• Best Walking Food Tour : With more than 1,000 5-star reviews, this is your best chance to explore Victoria’s history and culinary scene on a walking food tour.
• Best Seaplane Flightseeing Tour : If you’re looking to get some incredible views of Victoria and the surrounding area, you’ll want to take a seaplane flightseeing tour.
• Best Comprehensive Tour from Vancouver to Victoria : If you’re in Vancouver and short on time, this 13-hour tour from Vancouver to Victoria will give you an excellent taste of British Columbia’s capital city.

🛌 Top Hotels in Victoria:

• Fairmont Empress (luxury)
• Inn at Laurel Point (mid-range)
• Red Lion Inn & Suites (budget)

🚗 Visiting Victoria independently?   Be sure to book your Victoria rental car ahead of time to ensure availability!

Table of Contents

Getting to Victoria BC

If you’re a visitor looking for different ways of getting to Victoria, here’s some practical advice on how to get there.

Getting to Victoria by Plane

If you’re flying into Victoria, you’ll most likely be flying into Victoria International Airport (YYJ). Although there are other smaller airports around the island, this is the one that gets used by most visitors. It’s located just 25 minutes from downtown, is the 3rd busiest airport in British Columbia and offers easy access to downtown Victoria, including by public bus or taxi. The public bus costs $5 CAD but space for baggage is limited.

Getting to Victoria by Car and Ferry

Victoria is also a great place to visit by car, especially if you plan on exploring more of Vancouver Island. If you’re driving to Victoria, you will need to take a ferry from the mainland to either Victoria or to Nanaimo. Most people would be either driving west from interior BC and Vancouver or potentially south from Washington. The crossing time is approximately 1.5 hours. The BC ferries leave from Vancouver’s Tsawwassen to Swartz Bay (Victoria). The other option is to take the ferry to Nanaimo, and then drive 2-hours to Victoria. The cost for a car and driver is approximately $75 CAD for a one-way trip. However, it’s much better to get a rental car and have all the freedom you need. Depending on timing, you want to arrive 1-2 hours earlier than the ferry departure as it can be very busy. Upon arrival, you will be in Sidney, BC, which is 32 km (20 miles) north of Victoria, taking approximately 30 minutes by car to reach downtown Victoria. You could also take a ferry to Nanaimo and travel to Victoria from there.

Connecting to the Ferry from YVR: Tsawwassen is the closest ferry terminal to Vancouver Airport for those looking to take the ferry to Victoria, BC. For more information on how to take the bus from Vancouver Airport to the Victoria ferry. You can take public transportation from the airport to the ferry, or if you rent a car, just drive to the ferry terminal.

Seattle to Victoria Ferry: Another really cool feature about Victoria BC is that you can actually take a ferry right from downtown Seattle to downtown Victoria, sailing through some really beautiful coastal scenery. The journey takes approximately 3 hours and starts at around $110 USD.

Getting to Victoria by Bus

Just like driving to Victoria, the only way to get to Vancouver Island is to take the ferry. There is no bus that takes you all the way to Victoria from Vancouver. However, you can take a bus to the ferry, and then another bus from the ferry to Victoria. This entire route will take approximately 4 hours. Basically, you need to take the Canada Line and ride the SkyTrain to Bridgeport Station and then take bus 620 from bay 11 to Tsawwassen ferry terminal (45 minutes or more). Jump on the ferry and take it to Swartz Bay (1.5 hours). Once on Vancouver Island, catch the 70 express bus or 72 bus to downtown Victoria (1 hour +). The total cost, including the ferry, will cost around $30.

Getting to Victoria by Tour

Another option for exploring Victoria and Vancouver is a tour from Vancouver that includes the ferry .

How to Get Around Victoria

Victoria is not a huge city, and thus, there is no subway train system. There is, however, a pretty good public bus network, as well as taxis to get you around. You could also rent a car, or if not going too far, Victoria is also a great place to walk or bike.

Bus: Public bus will take you almost anywhere you need to go within Victoria, as well as to the airport and the ferry terminal. Check the BC Transit schedule and also NextRide, which provides real-time bus arrival. Another option is to take the Hop-On Hop-Off double-decker bus, which takes you to all the popular tourist sites, allowing you to get on and off as you please.

Taxi: Like most of Canada, taxis are not cheap but they can be convenient. Prices start around $3.50 CAD and go up by $1.89 CAD per kilometre after.

Bicycle: Victoria is a wonderful city to traverse by bike. There are a variety of options for renting a bike, including electric bikes as well. Another option is the u-bike , which you just grab and go across the city. The only thing you’ll need in advance is an account. The cost is approximately $1 for 30 minutes.

Walk: If you’re only going to be exploring downtown Victoria, walking is the best way to do it. There are even self-guided walking tours and paid tours you could partake in.

Carshare: Another way to get around is by carshare, which is currently operated by both Modo and Zipcar.

Harbour Ferry: For inner-city travel, the Harbour Ferry is a great way to get around and enjoy the beautiful coastal scenery. It runs from mid-February until the end of October (weather permitting).

Weather for Victoria Travel (Best Time to Visit)

Victoria is one of the mildest cities in Canada, receiving very little snowfall and rarely dipping below 0°C. It does, however, get quite a bit of rain during the winter months.

March-May: The spring months are actually a great time to visit Victoria, as this is when many flowers being to bloom and the weather warms up. The average temperature is about 10°C – 18°C (50-65 degrees F).

June-August: Like most of Canada, the summer months are the busiest and costliest time to visit. However, this is when the weather is at its warmest. With maximum warmth and minimum rain, this is the best time for getting outdoors and going walking, biking or hiking. It’s also a better time to go whale watching. You’ll want to consider booking accommodation weeks or even months in advance. The average temperature is around 22°C (73 degrees F).

September-November: The fall is also a great time to visit the island, though you should expect more rain. However, we explored the island in September and had beautiful weather for weeks. We also went whale watching on the last day of the season and had the best whale-watching tour of our lives. You just never know. Just pack a sweater and a rain jacket and umbrella and you’ll be fine. The average temperature is 15°C – 20°C (55-68 degrees F).

December-February: These months represent the winter and is known as the offseason in Victoria. If you don’t mind colder weather and rain, this is the best time to save money on accommodation as well as avoid crowds. There is also skiing on Vancouver Island if you’re looking to go skiing or snowboarding. The average temperature is 9°C (47 degrees F).

Things to Do in Victoria BC

Victoria is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Canada, which creates loads of attractions, activities, and other things to do. Below is a list of some of the best things to do when visiting Victoria.

Smell the Roses at the Butchart Gardens

Visited by more than one million people each year, the Butchart Gardens has become an icon of Victoria, as well as a National Historic Site of Canada. This breathtaking 55-acre garden is home to 900 bedding plant varieties, 26 greenhouses, and 50 full-time gardeners! Whether you’re travelling solo, with your family, or on a romantic date with your partner, the Butchart Gardens is a must-do when visiting Victoria. It’s just a stunning place to walk around. However, they also have a Saturday firework show, boat tours, evening entertainment, and a lovely gift shop. Roses, tulips, daffodils, hyacinths, and Japanese maples are just some of the magnificent flora you might see in this world-famous garden.

Prefer a tour? Click here to learn more about a popular tour from Vancouver that includes the Butchart Gardens and downtown Victoria.

Visit the Royal BC Museum

Founded in 1886, the Royal British Columbia Museum is a great place to learn about BC’s natural and human history. There are three permanent galleries inside, including Natural History, Becoming BC, and the First Peoples Gallery. The natural history collection alone has more than 750,000 records of specimens that are almost exclusively from the province. The Royal BC Museum is also home to touring exhibitions, such as the Titanic, Egyptian artifacts, and the Vikings. You can also watch educational films and commercial films at the IMAX Victoria theatre. It’s also conveniently located within walking distance from the Empress Hotel and the inner harbour.

Visit Fisherman’s Wharf

Not far from Victoria’s Inner Harbour is the lovely floating neighbourhood of Fishermans Wharf. This hidden treasure is a great place to eat food, shop at unique stores, and go on eco-tours. This place was busy with people eating fresh seafood when we visited, but our favourite part was touring the floating homes and just imagining what it would be like to live in a house that moves with the water. I believe we even saw some guesthouses if you want a really cool experience in Victoria.

Travel Idea: Click Here for the Victoria Harbour Smartphone Audio Walking Tour .

Go for a Stroll at Beacon Hill Park

If you’re looking for a beautiful park to stroll around for the afternoon, you’ll be hard-pressed to find one better than Beacon Hill Park , which is conveniently located in downtown Victoria. Simply walk up Belleville Street past the Museum of Natural History and the Imax Theatre to Douglas Street, take a right, and then climb a short hill until you reach the top. Beautiful inner-city nature awaits you. However, do note that the park is a whopping 200 acres in size, so plan your visit accordingly.

Explore the Inner Harbour and Victoria Pier

One of the best things to do in Victoria is to simply stroll along the inner harbour, which is one of the most beautiful harbours in the world. This is where you’ll find many historic streets and buildings, as well as a variety of festivals and shows throughout the summer. It’s also home to an international ferry terminal, float planes, and many ecotourism businesses.

Take a Walking Food Tour

One of the great things about taking a walking tour is that you’ll actually learn about the place you’re visiting. You’ll learn about the street you’re walking on or the neighbourhood you’re walking through, helping to make the city truly come alive for you. However, taking a 3-hour food tour with A Taste of Victoria Food Tours will add the experience of trying a variety of delicious food from local restaurants and bakeries. This was one of our favourite ways of exploring Victoria as we got to learn some history while sampling things like Italian baked goods, perogies, homemade ice cream, balsamic vinegar and olive oils, and some delicious meatballs.

Click Here to Book Your Food Tour!

Visit the Victoria Parliament Buildings

Right next to the Inner Harbour is the impossible-to-miss British Columbia parliament buildings . Overlooking stunning Victoria Harbour, these beautiful historical buildings are as beautiful on the outside as they are on the inside. Visitors are able to do self-guided tours of the buildings or can go on a regularly scheduled 35-minute guided tour, which occurs seven days a week during the summer months. The Parliamentary Dining Room and Gift Shop are also open to the public year-round.

Go inside Craigdarroch Castle

For a Victorian experience and a real-life example of a “bonanza castle” – massive homes built for wealthy entrepreneurs during the industrial age – you’ll want to visit the Craigdarroch Castle . Built between 1887 and 1890 on a hill offering impressive views of the area, you’ll find four floors of exquisite stained-glass windows, intricate woodwork and fabulous Victorian-era furnishings.

Tour Alert: Click here to visit the castle as part of a private tour from Vancouver .

Go Whale Watching

One of the top things to do in the warmer months is whale watching. Thanks to an abundance of orcas (killer whales), the areas around Victoria and Vancouver Island are some of the best places in the world for these majestic marine animals. While we haven’t gone whale watching directly from Victoria, we have done it a few hours north in Port Renfrew, which was the best whale-watching tour we’ve ever done. We’ve also experienced Vancouver whale watching on the mainland and it was also very good. Highly recommended!

• Orca Spirit Adventures : This is the company we were with just off the coast of Port Renfrew. Despite being the last day of the year for tours in Port Renfrew, we saw dozens of Humpback whales and orcas, making it the wildest whale-watching tour of our lives.

Click here to book a VERY POPULAR half-day whale-watching tour!

Go Small at Miniature World

Honey, I shrunk the kids! Remember that movie? Now you can somewhat experience that at one of Victoria’s top tourist attractions – Miniature World . This little world features more than 85 miniature dioramas and displays, including the world’s smallest operational sawmill, the Great Canadian Railway, one of the world’s largest model railways, and even two of the world’s largest Doll Houses circa 1880 complete with over 50 furnished rooms! Talk about attention to detail!

Abkhazi Garden

This is yet another reason why Victoria is nicknamed “The Garden City”. Complete with an exquisite heritage home, the beautiful Abkhazi garden was created in 1946 by Prince and Princess Abkhazi. It’s only one acre in size but features dramatic glaciated rocky slopes, magnificent native Garry oaks and gorgeous vistas, Japanese maples and rhododendrons, carpets of naturalized bulbs, and much more. It might be small in size but it’s the overall design that leaves the greatest impression upon visitors.

Visit the Victoria Bug Zoo

First, a miniature world and now a miniature zoo? What’s with Victoria and the little things in life? For those interested in insects and spiders, this is the place to be! this is a great opportunity to view and experience multi-legged creatures from around the world in a safe, fun and friendly atmosphere. You’ll find approximately 50 species, including Canada’s largest ant colony, giant walking stick bugs, alien-eyes praying mantids, and even glow-in-the-dark scorpions. Whether you’re with kids or not, bring your camera for an unforgettable experience at the Victoria Bug Zoo !

Stop by the Empress Hotel

The Fairmont has done it again. This hotel is not only one of the top tourist attractions in the city but also one of the most historic buildings as well. Stepping inside is like stepping back in time to the days of the British Empire. Admiring the flora crawling up the building from the outside is just stunning. This iconic Canadian Pacific Railway hotel was built between 1904 and 1908 and has become one of the world’s most famous hotels. But even if you don’t want to shell out the dollars to spend the night at the Empress Hotel , you can just visit the hotel or even partake in afternoon tea, which is served in the lobby to more than 800 visitors per day.

Tour Idea: Click here for a Victoria Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour .

Explore Chinatown

It’s quite amazing how many cities around the world are home to Chinatown . But Victoria’s is unique in that it’s the second oldest Chinatown in all of North America, second only to the one in San Francisco. Created by Chinese immigrants more than 150 years ago, Chinatown has become a testament to the resiliency of the culture and traditions brought overseas long ago. From the Gate of Harmonious Interest to the bold colours of lucky red and gold throughout the neighbourhood, Chinatown is simply a place you shouldn’t miss when visiting Victoria. While there, don’t miss meandering down Fan Tan Alley as well, which is one of the narrowest streets in Canada.

Go Kayaking

Regardless if this is your first kayaking adventure or if you consider yourself a pro, Victoria is an awesome place to paddle and is the gateway to world-class paddling destinations around Vancouver Island. It’s a wonderful way to get some exercise while getting unique views of the harbour and the city, while also having the opportunity to spot local marine wildlife. Being surrounded by water, Victoria offers a huge variety of paddle sports experiences from the serenity of a calm lake, or the joy of an urban paddle on the inner harbour, all the way up to the excitement of a quick-moving current. It’s not just kayaking either. Paddle-boarding is also popular, as are canoeing and other water vessels. The best time for kayaking in Victoria is April through October, but thanks to the city’s mild climate, it’s possible to paddle all year long. There are many companies offering rentals and tours .

As you might imagine, with so much water surrounding the city, sailing is another popular activity in Victoria, BC. Whether you want to learn how to sail or just go for a scenic tour around the harbour, this is a great place to do it.

Get Amazing Views from the Malahat Skywalk

If you’re looking to get incredible views of the surrounding islands and sea, check out the Malahat Skywalk, which is only 30 minutes from Victoria. This new incredible lookout attraction rises up to 250m above sea level, offering a sweeping panorama view of Mt. Baker, Finlayson Arm, the Saanich Peninsula, and islands in two countries. While you’re up there, walk out onto their sturdy 84 ㎡ Adventure Net and be suspended above the centre of the tower with uninterrupted views of the lush arbutus forest and the spiralling structure beneath your feet. Even better? Choose to take the ramp back down or go even faster on their 20-metre Spiral Slide, all the way to the bottom.

With so much nature surrounding the city, Victoria is an awesome base for stunning hiking opportunities. Whether you hike in the city or outside the city, there is no shortage of trails and natural sites, including waterfalls, mountaintops, historic sites, and coastal treks. Most trails are only 30 minutes outside of downtown but will make you feel like you’ve gone deep into the backcountry, except with more people. Trailheads are well signposted, usually with maps, and trails are very well maintained. Most hiking trails are open year-round and are dog-friendly as long as they are on a leash. Some popular options include Coast Trail in Sooke, Mount Work Hiking Trail, Thetis Lake Hiking Trail, and the Trestle Bridge Hiking Trail in Goldstream Provincial Park, just to name a few.

See the Victoria Butterfly Gardens

Who doesn’t love butterflies? Well, now you can step into an indoor tropical rainforest filled with thousands of butterflies fluttering about the place. There are over 70 species of these magical creatures to see, as well as koi fish, turtles, poison dart frogs, parrots, flamingos, and many tropical flowers.

Click here to purchase your ticket to the Butterfly Gardens .

Get a View from the lookout

If you’re looking for one of the best views of the city, head on over to the downtown Harbour Centre’s observation deck for panoramic views over Victoria, as well as the neighbouring mountains and ocean. Click here to see ticket prices.

Fort Rodd Hill National Historic Site

If you’re looking for a Parks Canada National Historic Site , this 19th-century coastal artillery fort is bound to satisfy. Tour through secret bunkers, military command posts and original 19th-century buildings while also having the opportunity to camp overnight in group-friendly oTENTik’s. There’s also the adjacent Fisgard Lighthouse National Historic Site, which is home to Canada’s west coast’s first lighthouse.

Do Day-trips to the Smaller Islands

While Vancouver Island is quite big, there are actually hundreds of smaller Gulf Islands and inlets in the Georgia Strait around Victoria, BC. These make for excellent day trips. You could rent a boat, arrange a tour, or even take the ferry to popular islands such as Gabriola, Saltspring, and/or Thetis. Once on the little islands, you can simply relax in nature, go biking or hiking, visit local artisans and eateries, or find yourself a nice beach to whisk the day away. Ferry rates are about $10 CAD ($7 USD).

Explore Vancouver Island

While some certainly visit Victoria just for Victoria, we highly recommend taking another week or more and exploring more of Vancouver Island . It’s truly a special place and one of the most beautiful areas in the country. You’ll find gorgeous rainforest treks, mystical coastal beaches, jaw-dropping waterfalls, lovely little island towns, and the best surfing in Canada out by Tofino. There are also whale watching and wildlife tours all over the island, the opportunity to go snorkelling with salmon around Campbell River, and some of the best multi-day hikes in North America. Where will you go?

Tips for Saving Money in Victoria

With a little effort, you can turn Vancouver Island into an affordable travel destination. Most of the outdoor stuff is free so if you stick to that and cook your own food, you can keep your costs pretty low! Here are some of my ways to save money when you travel to Vancouver Island:

Couchsurf: Although Couchsurfing requires quite a bit of upfront work, it can be a great way to meet locals while saving mega dollars on accommodation.

Camping: Vancouver Island is home to a plethora of camping opportunities for those well-equipped. Use the DiscoverCamping.ca website to find potential campsites around the island. Expect to pay around $20 CAD or more per campsite.

Happy Hours: When looking for pubs and restaurants, find out if they have a happy hour. This is a great way to save money on food and drinks, while still enjoying the dining scene of each place.

Go Car-Free: If you’re only planning on visiting one city, such as Victoria or Nanaimo, consider leaving behind your vehicle and taking the ferry as a single person. You’ll save more than $50.

Go Biking: Vancouver Island is one of the top places in the country for mountain biking, so if you have the experience, you can save a lot of money by biking from destination to destination.

Hitchhike: Considering its popularity, there are many opportunities to try hitchhiking. Obviously, you’ll want to check with the local laws beforehand, but this can be a great way to save money. This should only be considered if you have lots of time.

Where to Stay in Victoria

Victoria is home to a plethora of accommodations, ranging from budget hostels to super high-end hotels and everything in between. We’ve listed some good options below but for all the best options, check out our guide to the best hotels in Victoria .

Fairmont Empress: If budget is of no concern, it’s hard to beat the famous Fairmont Empress, which offers a spectacular location and a wide variety of amenities such as a spa, pool, restaurants, and more. Click here to see reviews and availability .

Abigail’s Hotel: With almost all 5-star reviews, this beautiful hotel offers a wide variety of amenities such as free delicious breakfast, free parking, and even a small library to relax in. Guests rave about the comfortable beds as well. Click here to see reviews and availability .

Helm’s Inn: Located just outside of popular Beacon Hill Park. this all-suite hotel offers spacious accommodations, free WiFi, a refrigerator, a microwave, and very high reviews. They also have some kitchenettes available and have a coin-operated laundry facility on-site. Click here for reviews and availability .

Marketa’s Bed & Breakfast: This is where we stayed during our 150-day road trip across Canada. The breakfast alone is worth the stay, including home-baked scones or muffins, Montreal-style bagels, French toast, and more. This heritage home showcases Edwardian décor, has four-poster beds, and is very centrally located and within walking distance of many popular sights. Click here for reviews and availability .

Where to Eat in Victoria

There’s no shortage of places to chow down in Victoria.

Spinnakers : This is definitely the coolest place we ate at during our visit to Victoria. Not only is it a fancy pub but it’s also a brewery. From Kale Caeser to Shrimp Flatbread and Wild Pacific Halibut Fettacunni, Spinnakers is a great place for any meal of the day. But what makes it more special, aside from the views and ambience, is that they also brew their own beer. There are lots of options so we ended up having their beer and chocolate pairing flight, which included four house beer tasters and four handcrafted house-made TCHO Chocolate Truffles by Chocolatier Crystal Duck. We can’t wait to go back!

Fun Things to Do on Vancouver Island and Beyond

Another great part about Victoria is that there are so many things to do outside of the city as well. From going hiking in the rainforest to camping on a beach to driving up to Tofino to go surfing, Vancouver Island is a place you could spend weeks exploring. You could also head over to Vancouver and continue exploring mainland Canada. The options are seemingly endless.

For more on what to do outside of Victoria, check out these articles below:

• Things to Do in British Columbia
• Best Hotels in Victoria
• Two-Day Victoria Itinerary
• Things to Do in Vancouver
• Driving from Vancouver to Calgary
• Canada Road Trip Ideas

About Matthew G. Bailey

Matthew G. Bailey is the founder and editor-in-chief of Must Do Canada. Growing up in Alberta to a mother from Quebec and a father from Newfoundland, Matt spent his childhood playing hockey under the Northern Lights and hanging out in the forest before moving to Calgary and travelling to more than 250 cities spanning 42 countries and 6 continents. He loves travel, learning new things, playing sports, writing, making videos, photography, and scuba diving. You can also find him at LiveLimitless.net .

Reader Interactions

April 5, 2021 at 7:18 pm

This looks so amazing! Thanks for all this information!

April 7, 2021 at 12:56 pm

What a great article, highlighting so many of Victoria’s attractions. Reading this has made me what to revisit many of them.

April 28, 2021 at 2:06 pm

Articles really make me want to see all of this for myself.

May 10, 2021 at 7:27 pm

When visiting Butchart Gardens – leave your selfie sticks at home, they’re not allowed in the gardens. Yay – finally banned!

May 12, 2021 at 8:50 am

I love Victoria!

May 13, 2021 at 2:52 pm

The gardens are so beautiful at Butchart Gardens, this is definitely on my bucket list.

May 18, 2021 at 8:23 am

Looking forward to getting out to Victoria again. I love it out there!

May 26, 2021 at 6:45 pm

I’ve always wanted to go explore Victoria

January 8, 2022 at 12:38 pm

Great website, each spot is beautifully articulated!

Being new to Canada, this was a great way to learn about incredible and historical places. Hope the situation gets better to get my boots out soon, and plan for my most awaited AB and BC adventure trip this summer.

January 8, 2022 at 1:17 pm

Thank you so much. Yes, we really hope it becomes easier too. Have you seen our Youtube channel?

June 6, 2022 at 10:08 pm

There’s a few things in here I didn’t know about. Happy to find new places to explore.

March 9, 2023 at 11:20 am

We missed you at Haunted Manor Mini Golf! See you next time hopefully?!

March 9, 2023 at 11:58 am

That would be awesome! Not sure when we’ll be back but hopefully not long

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16 Top-Rated Things to Do in Victoria, BC

Written by Lana Law Updated Dec 22, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

At the southern tip of Vancouver Island, Victoria is sheltered by the mountains of the Olympic Peninsula and influenced by the warm North Pacific current, creating the mildest climate in Canada. It's one of the warmest places in Canada in winter , and it's a popular tourist destination for Canadians and international travelers, with things to do year-round.

The capital of British Columbia, Victoria is a small city with a friendly small-town atmosphere. With no land connection to mainland Canada, it also has a slightly remote feel. And due to the size – a population of less than 100,000 – getting around is quick and easy, and much of the sightseeing can be done on foot.

Some of the things to see include the parks and gardens, festooned with foliage and flowers throughout the year. The charming city center is set around the scenic Inner Harbour , which retains its Victorian heritage buildings and atmosphere. In the Empress Hotel, people still gather for traditional afternoon tea.

Victoria is one of the key highlights of Vancouver Island . Ferries make it an easy day trip from Vancouver, but regular flights connecting through Vancouver also make it a perfect getaway destination from anywhere in North America. It's also a great place to kick off a trip to other parts of the island.

For ideas on places to visit, see our list of the top things to do in Victoria.

See also: Where to Stay in Victoria

1. Walk along the Inner Harbour

2. royal bc museum, 3. the butchart gardens, 4. fairmont empress hotel, 5. parliament buildings, 6. shop or dine at market square, 7. wander through cook street village, 8. beacon hill park, 9. craigdarroch castle, 10. hiking trails and scenic areas, 11. fort rodd hill national historic site, 12. hatley park national historic site, 13. victoria butterfly gardens, 14. victoria bug zoo, 15. chinatown and fan tan alley, 16. maritime museum of british columbia, where to stay in victoria for sightseeing, map of things to do in victoria, bc, victoria - climate chart.

Victoria's scenic Inner Harbour is the main attraction and the best starting point for tourists. Many of the city's top sights are located either on the harbor or within easy walking distance. You can stroll along the waterfront, pass by the Empress Hotel and Parliament buildings, watch street buskers perform on sunny days, or stop in at restaurant for a bite to eat.

If you are looking for something to do in Victoria, this is a good place to come. Boat tours leave from the docks, and horse-drawn carriages ply the streets above. Festivals and other events frequently take place in this area and there is always plenty of activity.

For travelers without their own vehicle, or for those who simply want to park the car for a while, staying on the harbor is the best idea. While the Fairmont Empress is the most obvious choice for location, the Delta Hotels Victoria Ocean Pointe Resort is another great option in a little less busy area.

The Inner Harbour is also where float planes land and take off, with service to Vancouver and Washington state.

British Columbia's provincial museum and archives is one of the best museums of natural and cultural history in Canada, with many three-dimensional displays offering a feast of sights, smells, and sounds.

Walk through a rainforest, view animals on West Coast beaches and in tidal wetlands, sit among aboriginal ceremonial poles and masks, walk through a big house, and learn of First Nations people's struggles after European settlement. Other interactive features include a replica HMS Discovery - the ship that brought Captain Vancouver to these shores, and a street of shops in Old Town.

Outside, Thunderbird Park is home to traditionally carved memorial and house poles. Nearby, the small mid-19th century, Helmcken House is the oldest residence in British Columbia still standing on its original site. The house once belonged to J.S. Helmcken, a practicing doctor and local politician. He campaigned vigorously for the then British colony of Victoria and British Columbia to join the newly established confederation of Canada.

Note that big plans were in place to completely demolish and rebuild the museum starting in 2022, however, due to the massive cost the project was shelved. However, in anticipation of the project many of the displays were put into storage. The museum is slowly rebuilding the dismantled exhibits but it will be quite some time before it's back to normal.

The museum is situated midway between the Parliament Buildings and the Fairmont Empress Hotel.

Address: 675 Belleville Street, Victoria, British Columbia

Official site: http://royalbcmuseum.bc.ca/

Although the garden is a short drive from downtown Victoria, it is one of the premier tourist attractions in the area and worth taking the time to see. It's also a place you can visit several times a year to see the changes throughout the seasons. Even in winter, the gardens are a lovely sight, with an outdoor skating rink and a fabulous display of lights around Christmas.

The garden was started in 1904 by Jennie Butchart, wife of a wealthy quarry owner. She laid out a fragrant garden in this abandoned limestone quarry. Flourishing, not least because of the mild climate, the gardens have since been developed into a 20-hectare horticultural tour de force without rival in Canada.

The Italian garden, rose garden, Japanese garden, and sunken garden are among the loveliest. Open spaces among the pools, fountains, and the many exotic plants are used for artistic and musical performances.

To reach The Butchart Gardens, follow Highway 17A north for 22 kilometers to Brentwood Bay on the Saanich Peninsula.

Address: 800 Benvenuto Ave, Brentwood Bay, British Columbia

Official site: http://www.butchartgardens.com/

Built in 1908 for Canadian Pacific, like the Château Frontenac in Québec City, the Fairmont Empress Hotel on the Inner Harbour is one of Victoria's best-loved landmarks. This historic hotel has hosted celebrities and famous people throughout the decades, including members of the British Monarchy.

Architect Francis M. Rattenbury designed the Empress, and entering the vast lobby of this luxurious hotel is like journeying back in time to before the First World War.

Enjoying Afternoon Tea , served with great style in the Lobby Lounge, is one of the most popular things to do if you are visiting the city. Be sure to make a reservation if you want to guarantee a spot.

An extension on the north side of the Empress Hotel houses a collection of several dozen scenes in miniature at Miniature World . The models of historical events, castles, and dollhouses captivate young and old alike.

Address: 721 Government Street, Victoria

Dominating the south side of the Inner Harbour is the imposing seat of British Columbia's provincial government, the Parliament Buildings. Designed by Yorkshire architect Francis M. Rattenbury and erected in 1897, the imposing stone buildings have neat, orderly gardens and are very attractive in appearance – especially in the evening when lit by festoons of lights.

Perched high above the massive dome is a gilded statue of Captain George Vancouver (1757-98), who accomplished the first circumnavigation of Vancouver Island. Figures of famous personalities from the province embellish the façade. A large statue of Queen Victoria surveys the Inner Harbour from the terrace.

Highlights of a visit include an excellent overview of the history of British Columbia, details on the architectural design, and an education on the parliamentary system. Not to be missed are the impressive Queen Elizabeth II Golden Jubilee and Diamond Jubilee stained-glass windows. Another must see is the Memorial Rotunda , with its intricately painted walls and dome.

If parliament is sitting, members of the public are welcome to observe the session from the visitors' gallery.

If you work up an appetite while visiting, consider an elegant, yet understated breakfast or lunch at the Parliamentary Dining Room .

An alternative to touring the inside of the Parliament Buildings is a pleasant stroll around the grounds. Top sights include the Front Fountain, Knowledge Totem Pole, and the giant Sequoia Tree. In the spring and summer, stroll in behind the buildings and take in the sights and smells of the Premier's Rose Garden .

Address: 501 Belleville Street, Victoria, British Columbia

Official site: https://www.leg.bc.ca/learn-about-us/visiting-the-legislature

One of Victoria's most unique shopping areas is Market Square. Hidden from view from the street, the market is an open-air area behind wonderfully restored historical buildings. Patios line the multileveled area, and the sunny main square hosts a regular roster of performances.

Market Square is a mix of over 30 retailers consisting of one-of-a-kind boutiques, restaurants, and services. Wander around and pop into a few places to find local works of art, jewelry, crafts, and one of kind items. The pleasant vibe and comfortable environment will likely make you want to linger. Grabbing a bite at one of the innovative restaurants is a great way to satisfy that craving.

Market Square has three main entrances: Johnson, Pandora, and Store streets. Across Johnson Street and down a small cobblestone alley is the entrance to Il Terrazzo restaurant , one of Victoria's most enduring and popular dining establishments.

One of the trendiest areas of Victoria is Cook Street Village. Just down the street from Beacon Hill Park, this funky little area has good restaurants and nice shops. The main area is compact and runs from Oliphant Avenue for three blocks to Oscar Street.

For most of the year, restaurants have patios filled with patrons soaking up the vibe and staying busy by undertaking some serious people watching. Food trucks have their own little area complete with picnic tables under a large tree.

A very pleasant afternoon can be had by grabbing lunch on a patio, exploring the village, and then walking 10 minutes down Cook Street to the Dallas Road Waterfront Trail . This route stretches for miles, and the views across the Juan de Fuca Strait to the Olympic Mountains on a clear day are sublime.

Green and well tended, Beacon Hill Park is a favorite outdoor area close to the city center. From its highest point, lovely views look across Juan de Fuca Strait to the snowy peaks of the Olympic Peninsula .

The park is home to huge trees, gardens, and ponds. Walking trails lead through the park to quiet benches and areas for peaceful relaxation. You can see a variety of wildlife here, from deer to peacocks, ducks, and occasionally even an otter. Paths also lead to high points with beautiful views out over the ocean and mountains.

Other features in the park include recreational areas for baseball, tennis, cricket, and lawn bowling. Two water parks provide summer fun for kids.

A milestone on the southwest edge of the park, called Mile 0 , marks the western end of the continent-spanning Trans-Canada Highway . Nearby is a statue of Terry Fox, who attempted to run across Canada in 1980 to raise money for cancer research.

Address: 100 Cook Street, Victoria

Victoria's fairy-tale mansion, Craigdarroch Castle, is considered a gem of Victorian architecture and is a National Historic Site. Immigrant Scottish entrepreneur Robert Dunsmuir, who made his fortune in coal mining, commissioned the home in the 1880s but died before his mansion was completed. Family drama around the home ensued.

The house is situated in a particularly affluent area of Victoria. Elegant Rockland centers on Rockland Avenue, which is lined with grand heritage homes including Government House - the official residence of Her Majesty's representative in British Columbia. The house is open to the public but is not equipped with ramps or elevators.

Address: 1050 Joan Crescent, Victoria

Official site: http://thecastle.ca/

Victoria is one of the most scenic cities in Canada, and if you want to fully appreciate some of the views, head for the parks and tackle some local hiking trails . Many of these are short and can be done in a half-day or a couple of hours.

For coastal scenery, the Coastal Trail in Sooke is a wonderful seaside trail looking out to the distant mountains. The Mount Work hiking trail is another great hiking trail and good workout, leading to a highpoint with views to the Olympic Mountains and down Sanich Inlet.

For a little history, check out the Trestle Bridge Hiking Trail in Goldstream Provincial Park , and along the way, stop at Niagara Falls. Or, for something a little easier, try the Kinsol Trestle Bridge Trail , perfect for all abilities.

Read More: Best Hiking Trails on Vancouver Island

The gun batteries at Fort Rodd Hill National Historic Site, about 13 kilometers west of Victoria, used to guard the sheltered waters of Esquimalt Harbour, once a British naval base. The guns were in service from 1895 to 1956. Today, the well-preserved fortress can be visited.

Fort Rodd Hill National Historic Site is a perfect family outing when visiting Victoria. The fort has lots of interesting hideouts for kids to explore, guns to climb on, and the seashore out front usually has something interesting washed up. From the beach, walk about 10 minutes out to the point and Fisgard Lighthouse . This iconic Victoria photo spot was the first light on the west coast of Canada.

If you truly want to make your family visit an adventure, consider camping overnight at one of the fully self-contained oTENTik units.

Address: 603 Fort Rodd Hill Road, Victoria

Official site: https://www.pc.gc.ca/en/lhn-nhs/bc/fortroddhill

Hatley Park National Historic Site consists of Hatley Castle, built in 1908 by former British Columbia Premier and coal baron, James Dunsmuir. This Edwardian estate also showcases Japanese, Italian, and rose gardens.

The castle has also been featured in several films. Most famously, it was a filming location in the X Men movie series , as the School for Gifted Youngsters run by Professor Xavier.

The building today houses the administrative office of Royal Roads University , but is open to the public. You can choose to walk through the gardens or take a guided tour of the castle.

Address: 2005 Sooke Road, Victoria

Official site: http://hatleypark.ca/

Located near Butchart Gardens, the Victoria Butterfly Gardens feature much more than just butterflies. These indoor tropical gardens house up to 75 species of exotic butterflies and moths, plus tropical birds, fish, and reptiles. In 2017, the Butterfly Gardens also opened an Insectarium .

Ducks, flamingos, parrots, tortoises, frogs, and iguanas wander around the jungle environment. This interesting facility, which incorporates waterfalls, trees, and flowers, makes for a wonderful escape on a cool winter day and is the best place to visit in Victoria for an indoor hit of nature.

Address: 1461 Benvenuto Ave, Central Saanich

Official site: http://www.butterflygardens.com/

This may not be for everyone, but if you want to explore the wonderful world of bugs, or perhaps attempt to get over your fear of spiders, this is the place to visit. Enter a world of insects and spiders at the Victoria Bug Zoo.

The facility has a range of bugs from all over the world, many of which you can hold and interact with. The critter-focused attraction is located beside the Magnolia Hotel, easily walkable from Victoria's Inner Harbour.

Address: 631 Courtney Street, Victoria

Official site: http://www.victoriabugzoo.ca/

Adjoining the Old Town is Victoria's small, but nevertheless charming, Chinatown. Entered through a conspicuous gate, it occupies just two blocks close to Government Street and Fisgard Street. A century ago, 8000 people lived in the Chinese quarter. In 1971, it became a designated historic district.

One of the favorite sightseeing stops in Chinatown is the exceedingly narrow Fan Tan Alley . Located about two thirds of the way up Fisgard street as you head north to Government Street, the easy-to-miss entrance is on the right-hand side. The alley runs for a full city block from Fisgard street to Pandora street.

Down this little alley you'll find a treasure trove of interesting shops and restaurants. Photographers will be in their element trying to capture the ideal shot, considering the unique angles and tricky lighting.

If you head south of Chinatown, cross Store street, and turn right towards the water on Swift street, you'll find a delightful area of old buildings and restaurants with water-view patios. A short waterfront walkway runs along the seashore, and it's from here that many tour boats depart.

If you head south and turn left, you'll come to the brand new Johnson Street bridge. This futuristic, white bridge is a new addition to the Victoria waterfront and is especially beguiling at night when it's lit up in a soft blue color.

The Maritime Museum of British Columbia moved locations, and today is in a holding pattern until a new facility can be built in the next few years. Many of the 35,000 pieces are in storage, however, a small 3,000-square-foot temporary display location has some interesting things on display.

One of the exhibits is the SS Princess Sophia . Created with exquisite attention to detail, this scale model of the ship is fascinating to look at. Another fun exhibit for all members of the family is knot tying. Try your luck at creating some of the most common maritime knots - it's more difficult than you might imagine!

Address: 634 Humboldt Street, Victoria

Official site: http://mmbc.bc.ca/

For a conveniently located hotel in Victoria, we recommend these properties:

• Abigail's Hotel : If you're looking for charming and romantic, this 1930s Tudor mansion is the place. Enjoy four-star luxury, romantic four-poster beds, wood-burning fireplaces, and free breakfast and appetizers at this adults-only hotel .
• Victoria Regent Waterfront Hotel : This mid-range waterfront hotel features harbor views, spacious suites with full kitchens, floor-to-ceiling windows, and is set in a fantastic location.
• Best Western Plus Inner Harbour : For budget-minded travelers looking for affordable rates without compromising on location, the Best Western is a good choice. The hotel is located just one block in from the harbor and comes with an outdoor heated pool, whirlpool and sauna, and hot breakfast.
• Capital City Center Hotel : This pleasant budget hotel, within walking distance to the harbor area, features an outdoor seasonal pool, comfortable beds, and 24-hour concierge.

More on Canada

Victoria & Vancouver Island   Travel Guide

Courtesy of JoeRos | Getty Images

17 Best Things To Do in Victoria & Vancouver Island

Updated February 12, 2021

Devote a day to Victoria's picturesque Inner Harbour . Here you'll find popular sites like the Parliament Buildings and the Royal British Columbia Museum , as well as cafes and restaurants boasting wonderful views of the water. After you've exhausted

• All Things To Do

Inner Harbour Inner Harbour free

The Inner Harbour is Victoria's primary tourist neighborhood. The harbor itself – home to various fishing boats and colorful floating homes – is framed by wide pedestrian streets, often frequented by street vendors and buskers. Numerous cafes and restaurants line the sidewalks and provide the perfect locale to savor an afternoon cup of tea while keeping your eyes peeled for whales playing in the open water. The Inner Harbour also hosts some of Victoria's most popular attractions, including the  Royal British Columbia Museum  and the  Parliament Buildings . If you're embarking on a boat or ferry tour, this is where you'll likely start your journey.

Although the majority of recent visitors recommended spending a few hours at the Inner Harbour for the view, some suggested devoting at least half a day as there is always something interesting to see and do. For an even more charming scene, return in the evening, when the Parliament Buildings are lit up. 

The Butchart Gardens The Butchart Gardens

These world-renowned gardens have impressed Victoria visitors since 1904. Resting on 55 acres about 15 miles north of the  Inner Harbour , Butchart Gardens were carefully constructed by Jennie Butchart on her husband's former limestone quarry. Today, more than 1 million people stop by each year to meander along the property's flower-lined paths, which contain more than 900 varities. Visit on a summer evening to see the gardens illuminated by colored lights and to enjoy some musical entertainment. If you're planning a summer visit and want to avoid the crowds, heed the advice of garden staff and stop by before 10:30 a.m. or after 3:30 p.m.

Travelers describe the gardens as incredibly beautiful with awesome views and recommend that you bring a camera. They also advised setting aside several hours to make the most of the experience. If you need a break, retreat to one of the three eateries located on-site. There is also a carousel and boat tours available on-site.

Parliament Buildings Parliament Buildings free

The British Columbia Parliament Buildings are hard to miss. These neo-baroque structures with their impressive blue dome face off against Victoria's famed Fairmont Empress Hotel and make an excellent backdrop for an Inner Harbour stroll, especially at night when the facade is dressed in lights. But if you want a closer look at the building (which dates back to 1898), the parliamentary process and the history of the province, many travelers recommend a tour, raving about the well-informed guides. Although you can take a self-guided tour, you should consider tagging along on a free guided tour, according to recent visitors.

If you happen to be here when Parliament is in session, consider sitting in on one of the Legislative Assembly debates. You'll find a schedule of discussion topics on the  Parliamentary Calendar . The Parliament Buildings are open every day during the summer from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. On weekends, visitors must join a free public tour. During the winter, the buildings are open Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Complimentary guided tours run regularly throughout the day and last roughly 30 to 45 minutes. For more information, visit the British Columbia Parliament's visitor information  website .

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Royal British Columbia Museum Royal British Columbia Museum

The Royal British Columbia Museum offers visitors a comprehensive introduction to the region's history and culture. Exhibits include tribal artifacts from the First Nations, natural history displays and even replicas of Colonial-era settlements. The museum also boasts an IMAX theater and rotating special exhibits.

Recent visitors said this museum is a must-see when in Victoria as it offers a far-reaching look at the region's geography and indigenous people. Reviewers also praised the museum's layout, which is situated in chronological order. Some reviewers even said this was one of "the best museums" they've ever visited. Plus, if you're hungry, don't miss the museum's year-long food truck festival, which takes places in the building's back courtyard.

Goldstream Provincial Park Goldstream Provincial Park free

Located about 11 miles northwest of the  Inner Harbour , Goldstream Provincial Park houses a stunning array of flora and abundant natural beauty across its nearly 1,000 acres. But the real reason to visit this public wildlife area is rather fishy: Spend some time by the Goldstream River from late fall to early winter, and you're bound to catch a glimpse of the annual salmon migration. Between October and December, chum, coho and chinook salmon can be seen leaping upstream to their ancestral spawning beds. The park's trails follow the river closely, allowing you to get a good look at the watery highway.

Before you make a beeline for the river, consider stopping first at the Goldstream Nature House. The center offers educational programs on the annual salmon migration and other exhibits and activities. And even if you're not planning a winter trip to Vancouver Island, recent travelers said the massive cedar trees, abandoned gold mine and rumbling waterfalls make the park a must-see attraction at any time of year. Reviewers also said you should plan to wear appropriate hiking clothes and shoes so you can fully explore the park (and make your way up to the highest point in Greater Victoria – Mount Finlayson). When you need a break, stop for a picnic.

Mount Washington Alpine Resort Mount Washington Alpine Resort

Sitting on the eastern edge of Vancouver Island's Strathcona Provincial Park, the Mount Washington Alpine Resort is one of the region's most prominent ski areas. And it's easy to see why: The resort boasts 81 alpine runs and 1,657 feet of vertical drop. Couple that with an average 38 feet of annual snowfall and you've got a powder hound's paradise. Recent travelers who visited during ski season said the resort is small, but well-groomed and family-friendly, calling it a "gem."

Mount Washington is a year-round resort, so if you happen to miss ski season, you can take advantage of the area's many hiking and biking paths and gondola rides.

Fairmont Empress Fairmont Empress

Challenging the  Parliament Buildings  from across the  Inner Harbour  is the elegant Fairmont Empress hotel. Built in the early 20th century, the Empress is one of the region's oldest hotels. But while the interior decoration is worth a photo or two, the main reason to visit this colossal hotel (if you aren’t staying there) is for the tea. The Empress has been participating in this time-honored Victorian tradition since opening its doors, and according to travel experts and recent visitors, teatime continues to be a decadent affair here. (Fun fact: The tea served at the Empress is the hotel's own specially crafted brand.)

Although most Victoria visitors pass on high tea at the Empress due to its high price tag (around CA$78 or $61 per person), some visitors say that the experience is worth the money. If you're interested in experiencing more than just its famous tea service, consider staying at the  Fairmont Empress  while in Victoria, which lodgers love for its Old World feel. For more information, visit the hotel's  website .

Victoria Whale Watching Tours Victoria Whale Watching Tours

Though you may be able to spot whales from the ferry, you'll have the best chance of seeing them during an organized whale-watching tour. Plus, you'll benefit from knowledgeable guides who have access to the Race Rocks Ecological Reserve, which sits on the southernmost part of Vancouver Island (and Canada) on the Pacific coast.

There are a variety of tours available – some more intimate than others – but most last three to four hours. Recent visitors raved about their experiences with Eagle Wing Tours and BC Whale Tours . Some reviewers said they lost count of the amount of whales they saw, while others were particularly impressed with the guides, who kept a respectful distance from the animals and provided a wealth of information to tour goers.

Ultimate Marine Whale & Wildlife Tour

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Cowichan Valley Cowichan Valley

British Columbia is peppered with vineyards. To snag a taste of BC vino (and maybe even a few bottles to bring home), spend a day or two in the Cowichan Valley – second only to the Okanagan as the province's highest producing wine region. Occupying the heart of Vancouver Island – roughly 35 miles northwest of Victoria – the Cowichan Valley is home to a variety of different wineries and tasting rooms. The best way to get a feel for this part of the island is to stop at several vineyards for a tasting. Or, to participate in the region's annual wine festival, plan to visit in late August.

But wine isn't the only reason to visit this beautiful stretch of Vancouver Island. The Cowichan Valley is also home to golf courses, art galleries and plenty of hiking terrain. Many travel experts also recommend bringing a bike so that you can cover more ground without confining yourself to the car. Recent visitors recommended the Cowichan Valley Trail for cycling and hiking.

Craigdarroch Castle Craigdarroch Castle

To sample the Victorian high life, head about a mile east of the  Inner Harbour  to Craigdarroch Castle, a National Historic Site. This impressive home was built in the late 1800s for coal tycoon Robert Dunsmuir. Although it's more of a mansion than a castle, it houses 39 rooms, each of which is decked out in furnishings from the turn of the 20th century. Another highlight are the more than 30 gorgeous stained glass windows, the majority of which illustrate floral themes.

Even if you aren't a big history buff, many previous visitors recommend stopping by Craigdarroch Castle for a glimpse into how the wealthy once lived, not to mention stunning views of downtown Victoria. The only downside among reviewers: The house doesn't have any ramps or elevators, making it difficult for visitors with mobility issues to tour the upper three floors of the castle.

Sooke Sooke free

This little community on the southern tip of Vancouver Island makes for a quaint and quiet alternative to Victoria. Sooke's sheltered harbor is filled with fishing boats rather than tourists, and its numerous parks provide a scenic backdrop for hiking, biking and horseback riding. Recent visitors enjoyed the East Sooke Regional Park, citing its beauty and peaceful setting. You'll also find an assortment of water activities here – including fishing, sailing and whale watching – thanks to the town's location on the Strait of Juan de Fuca.

And just because it's a small town doesn't mean you won't get your culture fix: Sooke hosts a variety of shops, art galleries and several notable festivals like the  Sooke Fine Arts Show  in July and August.

Victoria Butterfly Gardens Victoria Butterfly Gardens

While you wouldn't normally relate Canada with the jungle, the tropical wetlands thrive in the Victoria Butterfly Gardens. As its name suggests, this indoor facility is home to thousands of butterflies spread across its 12,000 square feet. But they aren't the only critters: The gardens also host a variety of birds and fish, including flamingos and koi fish. You'll find all of these creatures mingling amid the flora, creating a vibrant, colorful atmosphere. What's more, the gardens also house an insectarium with insects and invertebrates from around the globe.

Recent visitors called the Victoria Butterfly Gardens fun and family-friendly, with great staff. Reviewers also said that there is more to see than just butterflies, such as frogs, flamingoes and bugs. A few travelers remarked on the gardens' humid setting, advising future visitors to wear layers.

Victoria Bug Zoo Victoria Bug Zoo

If you're traveling to Victoria with kids in tow (or even without), many recent visitors recommended a stop at the Victoria Bug Zoo. Located a block or so north of the  Inner Harbour , this fairly small facility is home to a large number of creepy crawlies. Here, you'll come face to face with gigantic walking sticks, furry tarantulas and even glow-in-the-dark scorpions.

Recent visitors raved about the zoo's employees, who are ready to answer any questions you may have about their six- and eight-legged friends. Plus, you can even hold some of the insects – a major point of praise for reviewers.

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Miniature World Miniature World

Miniature World continues to delight the young and the young at heart with its numerous tiny worlds. Sitting just a short walk from the  Inner Harbour , this interactive museum houses dozens of miniature displays and dioramas. Follow the model Canadian railway as it travels across the country or spend some time at the big top in the "Circus World" display. If you are a literary buff, you'll appreciate a glimpse of the world of Dickens, while time travel aficionados should check out the "Space 2201 A.D." display.

Many recent visitors praised the models' intricate details, and said to take your time as you take it all in. Reviewers said this was an excellent way to spend a few hours on a rainy day and a lot of fun for kids. 

BC Aviation Museum BC Aviation Museum

Read More »

West Coast Brewery Tours West Coast Brewery Tours

Beacon Hill Park Beacon Hill Park free

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27 Best Things to Do in Victoria

With its mild, sunny climate and world-class attractions, there’s no shortage of things to do in Victoria.

The city’s colonial charm, incredible foodie culture, and stunning scenic beauty combine to create the ultimate weekend escape from Vancouver.

So, join this former Victoria resident for a deeper look at the top Victoria BC activities.

Best Things to Do in Victoria

Embark on a victoria whale watching tour.

As much as we love the whale watching tours in Vancouver , I have to admit that Victoria might be the best city in British Columbia for whale watching.

You can choose from a wide variety of Victoria whale watching tours that depart from the Inner Harbour or Fisherman’s Wharf. And unlike in Vancouver, you’re just a short run from the grounds.

Each tour allows you to see a variety of whales, including orcas, humpbacks, and gray whales. You’ll likely even spot some dolphins, seals and sea lions.

Book Your Victoria Whale Watching Tour Now   

Tour Historic Craigdarroch Castle

Craigdarroch Castle is a historic castle built in the late 19th century by wealthy coal baron Robert Dunsmuir, and it features a Victorian-style design .

Located just outside downtown, the castle is open for tours , which allow you to explore the building’s many rooms and learn its history.

Today, the castle is now a national historic site . And its complete restoration provides visitors with a quick glimpse into the privileged life of colonialists in the 1890s.

Visit the Enchanting Oasis that is Butchart Gardens

Butchart Gardens is unquestionably the area’s most popular tourist attraction. So naturally, it is right at the top of our list of places to visit in Victoria.

This world-renowned botanical garden features over 55 acres of stunning floral displays, making it a must-see for any nature lover. This urban oasis’s lush greens and colourful blooms attract over one million people a year. 

The gardens are in full bloom during late spring and summer. But don’t worry—this National Historic site remains popular year-round—even during Christmas.

Visit Butchart Gardens Now

Have Afternoon Tea at the Empress Hotel

Want to immerse yourself in Victoria’s unique colonial charm ? Afternoon tea at the Empress is the best way to do it.

At Victoria’s most iconic building, you’ll enjoy the hotel’s famous flakey scones and scrumptious pastries alongside loose-leaf tea served in royal china by Queen Elizabeth in 1939. For true decadence, finish up with a glass of Veuve Clicquot Rose.

This stately ritual has been one of the top things to do in Victoria for 114 years and counting – and it’s the ultimate in vacation pampering .

Take a Leisurely Stroll through Beacon Hill Park

Beacon Hill Park is a 150-acre park in the heart of the Inner Harbour . This scenic spot offers stunning views of the Olympic Mountains and the Strait of Juan de Fuca, making it a great place for a leisurely stroll or a vigorous bike ride.

This ocean-front park also features a number of historical monuments, like the world’s 4th tallest totem pole (127 feet) carved by Kwakwaka’wakw craftsman Mungo Martin.

Undoubtedly, Beacon Hill Park is one of the best places to visit in Victoria for a little quiet contemplation.

Take a Victoria Hop on Hop off Tour

Looking for a quick way to check off all the items on your Victoria clipboard of fun? Then I’d suggest checking out the entire city on a Victoria Hop on Hop off bus tour .

For one low price, you’ll ride a UK-style double-decker bus to 15 of the best Victoria tourist attractions. And the best part? You can jump off wherever you’d like to form your own customized itinerary.

This tour is one of the top Victoria activities for families, the elderly or hurried cruise passengers.

Book a Victoria HoHo Bus Tour Now

Savour a Bite at Local Victoria Restaurants

This charming harbour city is home to the second-highest concentration of restaurants in North America. So, if you’re looking for fun things to do in Victoria, a foodie crawl should be at the top of your list.

For a unique dining experience, I like to recommend 10 Acres Bistro . This local farm-to-fork restaurant shows off the best of ethically raised local ingredients directly from their own farm.

For something more casual, fish and chips are popular choices for visitors strolling the city. For a modern take on this traditional favourite, I like to hit up wharf-side Redfish Bluefish .

Take a Seaplane Tour of the Coast

If you’re looking to take your holiday or special occasion day to a whole new level, then Victoria seaplane tours are quite literally the way to do it.

This 30-minute sightseeing flight offers an unparalleled birds-eye view of the Parliament Buildings, Empress Hotel, Inner Harbour, Olympic Mountains, and Strait of Juan de Fuca.

Even better, your tour is aboard the world’s first carbon-neutral airline. You’ll also receive a convenient hotel shuttle for a true door-to-air experience.

Take Off On A Victoria Seaplane Tour Now

Paddle Around the Inner Harbour

The Garden City is essentially one giant peninsula made up of the Inner Harbour and the Gorge Waterway.  Expect a series of small bays offering protected waters to be explored during the Summer months.

Add in the area’s mild climate and abundant wildlife, and you have the recipe for a killer afternoon. On a summer day, going for a paddle is one of the best Victoria activities for active travellers .

The result? A SUPing and kayaking paradise—you can rent right downtown with Victoria Kayak. Prefer a guided option? A variety of Victoria Kayaking Tours are also available.

Visit a Tropical Oasis at Victoria Butterfly Gardens

Located next to Butchart Gardens, the Victoria Butterfly Gardens is one of the best places for families to visit in Victoria BC.

As its name suggests, this tropical garden is home to over 500 butterflies . However, it also contains thousands of tropical birds, reptiles, turtles and plants.

The gardens also have several educational exhibits , so they’re the perfect place for your children to learn more about these amazing creatures.

Visit the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria

This world-renowned gallery features a collection of over 16,000 works of art , from paintings and sculptures to textiles and photographs.

Notably, the Greater Victoria Art Gallery hosts the largest collections from venerated BC artist Emily Carr .

You’ll also find one of the largest collections of Asian art in Canada, including a large Japanese-style Shinto shrine . The gallery also offers a variety of educational programs.

So, if you’re artistically inclined, the AGGV is easily one of the top attractions in Victoria, BC.

Head out to Goldstream Provincial Park

A visit to Goldstream Provincial Park is one of the best outdoor activities in Victoria, BC, for visitors. Particularly those who’re looking for hiking and biking trails .

Find yourself in town between October and December? You can witness one of the highest concentrations of bald eagles anywhere in North America as these majestic creatures return to feast on spawning chum salmon.

Located 16 km northwest of the city, the park is also a great place for camping if you’re dying to spend a night or two under the stars. And there is even a beautiful waterfall!

Watch the Sunset from Dallas Road

Dallas Road Waterfront Trail is one of the best places to watch the sunset in Victoria.

This seaside route offers stunning views of the Strait of Juan de Fuca and the Olympic Mountains. Stretching from Clover to Ogden Point, there is a seemingly endless selection of isolated spots to watch the sunset over the Pacific.

For this reason, it’s one of the best things to do in Victoria for couples. Make sure to head there during golden hour—you’ll thank me later.

Sample Victoria’s Craft Breweries

Victoria may be the most important stop on BC’s Ale Trail . There are so many great breweries that it has even been dubbed ‘Canada’s craft beer capital.’

The legendary Spinaker’s Brewpub  in West Victoria comes highly recommended. Need more variety? Then head to the 328 Taphouse with its 40 local taps.

Cider lovers willing to venture to Saanichton will also love the Sea Cider Farm & Ciderhouse . That said, my personal favourite is Hoyne Brewing , with its award-winning local beers.  

Take Me on a Victoria Craft Beer Tour

Visit the British Columbia Parliament Buildings

It sounds almost strange to say, but if you love politics, this is hands down one of the best places to visit in Victoria.

These historic buildings house the Legislative Assembly of British Columbia and several other government offices.

The buildings are open for tours, which allow you to explore the chambers and learn about their history. But most locals prefer to use the grounds as a picnic spot due to their fantastic location at the heart of the Inner Harbour.

Check Out the Fort Rodd Hill National Historic Site

Located just outside Victoria in the suburb of Colwood, Fort Rodd Hill is a National Historic Site that was formerly a fort that defended the city from a potential American attack (hard to believe, I know).

Today, this National Historic site allows visitors to tour historic battlements , weapons depots, and other displays.

Fort Rodd Hill is also right next to the Fisgard Lighthouse and Hatley Park, two more National Historic Sites, so you’ll get extra bang for your buck.

Hatley Park Castle / Gardens

Hatley Park has several glorious gardens that are based on international themes (Japanese, Italian, etc). The grounds also contain the beautiful Hatley Park Castle , pictured above. This building is also home to the campus of Royal Roads University.

The park also has several trails, so it’s the perfect place for a walk or a bike ride.

Furthermore, it leads down toward Esquimalt Lagoon, which houses one of Victoria’s nicest beaches.

Cool Off in Sooke Potholes 

Sooke Potholes Provincial Park is one of the best things to do near Victoria for outdoor lovers , especially those who don’t mind getting wet.

The potholes are about an hour West of Victoria near the town of Sooke. This park is home to a number of hiking and biking trails , as well as a beautiful river. 

The area’s unique rock formations  were sculpted during the last ice age. Their characteristically crystal-clear pools are a terrific place to cool off in the summer heat.

Explore Victoria by Bike

BC’s capital city is renowned for its incredibly high bike participation rate. With its seemingly never-ending network of urban bike lanes and trails, the area is a true biker’s paradise .

Whether you’re looking to explore the City Centre, encircle the stunning Seaside Loop or do some hard-core mountain biking, the area is assured to satisfy anyone travelling on two wheels.

You can go it solo and rent your own bike. Or, you can opt for a guided group bike tour by using the button below.

Take Me on a Victoria Bike Tour

Wander Through Canada’s Oldest Chinatown

Located on the Northern edge of downtown Victoria, this historic enclave of Chinese culture dates back to the mid-1800s after gold was discovered in BC’s Fraser Canyon.

The area’s beating heart is the quaint Fan Tan Alley , which is the narrowest street in Canada . Formerly chocked full of gambling and opium dens, it now houses a variety of shops, galleries and cafes catering to the tourist crowd. 

Today, the area houses a diverse mix of artists, restauranteurs, and bar owners. Overall, Chinatown has become one of the top attractions in Victoria for visitors of all ages.

Best Things to Do in Victoria FAQs

What is victoria bc most known for.

The city of Victoria, BC, is most famous for its quaint small-town charm and stunning colonial architecture. It is also a great starting point to explore the stunning beauty of Vancouver Island. And in recent years, has become renowned for its vibrant restaurant, bar, and craft beer scenes.

What are the best things to do in Victoria?

Victoria offers a wide range of attractions and activities. Some of the best things to do in Victoria include exploring the Inner Harbour, visiting the Butchart Gardens, exploring historic sites like Craigdarroch Castle, enjoying whale watching tours, and indulging in high tea at the Fairmont Empress Hotel.

What are the best things to do in Victoria for families?

Victoria offers a variety of family-friendly activities that cater to all ages. Kids are sure to enjoy a trip to Victoria attractions such as Butterfly Gardens, Miniature World, and the Victoria Bug Zoo. If you’re looking for fresh air, Beacon Hill Park, Butchart Gardens, and the local beaches will do the trick.

How can I get to Victoria from Vancouver?

There are a few transportation options to get from Vancouver to Victoria. The most popular and convenient way is to ferry from Tsawwassen Ferry Terminal to Swartz Bay Terminal. Alternatively, you can take the Vancouver to Victoria Bus. Or even jump on a seaplane from Vancouver’s Coal Harbour .

Still Wondering What to Do in Victoria?

So there you have it. Whether you’re headed out whale watching, visiting Butchart Gardens, or chowing down on local food, your itinerary should be loaded with activities.

That said, if you need any additional tips, I’m still here for you in the comments below.

I hope you’ve enjoyed our summary of the best things to do in Victoria. Now it’s up to you to get out and do them!

Safe travels⛴️

I've used online guides on five continents to find the world's greatest travel spots and this is my chance to give back - with insider info on my home, the mighty Vancouver BC!

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23 Fantastic Things to Do in Victoria BC

• Post author: Lisa Garrett
• Post last modified: February 22, 2024
• Post category: Canada / Cruise Ports

Disclaimer :  This page may contain affiliate links.  I earn a small commission if you make a purchase through these links (at no additional cost to you).

Planning a trip to Victoria? You’ll want to know all of the best things to do in Victoria, BC, and you’ve come to the right place!

Victoria is the capital of the province of British Columbia and is known as Canada’s ‘Garden City’ for its stunning gardens.  

Are you taking a cruise to Victoria BC? It’s a popular Alaska cruise port, and it’s definitely one of my personal favorites! (I visited it twice just last year on back-to-back Alaska cruises!)

(And for an unforgettable cruise experience, there are also plenty of amazing Victoria tours and shore excursions you can splurge on!)

Are you ready to book your trip to Victoria?

Looking for the top picks for your  trip to Victoria BC ? Here are some of the best Victoria tours and shore excursions to help you plan the perfect once-in-a-lifetime trip!

Top Tours and Experiences in Victoria:

• Half-Day Whale Watching Adventure (Top seller! Admire orcas, humpbacks, and more!)
• Victoria + Butchart Gardens Private Tou r (Customized private tour!)
• S unset Whale Watching Tour (Award winning whale watching experience!)
• Panoramic Seaplane Tour (Exhilarating panoramic views!)
• Guided Food + History Tour (Sample local favorite foods on this best-selling tour!)
• Zodiac Whale Watching Adventure (Get up close on this small-group zodiac tour)
• Butchart Gardens Shut tle + Entry Ticket (Skip the rental car, take the shuttle)

Top Hotels in Victoria:

• Fairmont Empress (Iconic, elegant 4-star hotel on the Victoria harbor, with spa!)
• Regent Waterfront Hotel & Suites (Suites are perfect for families)
• Oswego Hotel (Highly rated boutique hotel!)

Whether you’re visiting this beautiful Canadian city for a day on a cruise or staying for a weekend, you’ll find many excellent things to do in Victoria! This beautiful city boasts a wide range of attractions, from incredible gardens to elegant architecture to rugged landscapes.

Wondering what to do in Victoria BC? I’ve got all the top attractions here for you!

Lace up your shoes and let’s go!

Table of Contents

Best Things to do in Victoria BC Canada

1. marvel at the incredible butchart gardens (top pick).

If you are at all a fan of gardens, you will want to tour the fabulous Butchart Gardens . It’s definitely my favorite attraction in Victoria!

The Butchart Gardens are a spectacular collection of gardens, filled with flowers in every color of the rainbow .  The Butchart Gardens are part of the greater Victoria area and are a large part of why Victoria is known as ‘the Garden City’. 

The Butchart Gardens are magnificent any time of year, but especially in the spring and summer.

The Butchart Gardens are about a half-hour drive north from Victoria, but a visit is definitely worth the drive, as they are one of the best gardens in the world .  These must-see gardens cover 55 acres and delight over a million visitors annually.

The Butchart Gardens were built out of a former limestone quarry, being beautifully repurposed after the quarry was depleted over 100 years ago.  The gardens have expanded and become more spectacular over the decades and are a National Historic Site of Canada.

Make the most of your trip with this private tour of Victoria and the Butchart Gardens . Prefer to do it yourself? This shuttle to the Butchart Gardens + admission ticket may be the best choice for you!

The Sunken Garden

The Butchart Gardens contain several differently themed gardens.  The main path starts you off at an overlook viewing the stunning Sunken Garden , which is (in my opinion) the most spectacular of the gardens.

The elaborate design of the Sunken Garden is incredible.  Multiple colors and patterns of plantings are mixed with manicured lawns and shrubbery, with densely forested hills rising in the background.

Continue along the paths to experience the Bog Garden, the Rose Garden, the serene Japanese Garden, the Italian Garden, and the Mediterranean Garden.   Take your time to explore the beauty of each of the garden styles.

The Ross Fountain

Paths meander amongst the gardens which also contain many gorgeous fountains, ponds, and statues.  Be sure to admire the Ross Fountain , dramatically set within a lake surrounded by cliffs and tall trees. 

Stay a while to enjoy the illuminated fountain show . This is also a favorite photo location in the Butchart Gardens.

If you’re hungry, stop by the restaurant, coffee shop, or gelateria for a pick-me-up.  There is also a seed and gift store if you’d like to take home a unique souvenir from your visit.

Here’s a beautiful video highlighting Butchart Gardens through the seasons:

Best things to do in Victoria (walking tour):

I call this the ‘cruise port walking loop’.  It contains all of the best things to do in Victoria BC — straight from your cruise ship dock in the Ogden Cruise Port Terminal.

My ‘DIY’ walking tour itself will take 3-4 hours as you take a journey through the top attractions of Victoria .

Being able to see so many fabulous attractions makes Victoria one of the best Alaska cruise ports of call !

2. See the First Nations Breakwater Murals and the Breakwater Lighthouse

You can’t miss seeing the breakwater as you leave the cruise terminal. It stretches out into water, curving protectively towards the Ogden Point Cruise Terminals.

Take a close look at the breakwater, and you’ll notice that it is painted with colorful murals . These ‘Unity Wall Murals’ honor the First Nations traditions and history.

This artistic project began in 2009, with art created along the inner curve of the breakwater. Due to strong positive public response, the project expanded to include the outer curve as well.

You can walk along the length of the breakwater to the Breakwater Lighthouse , which was built in 1916.

And, at the land end of the breakwater, you’ll find the Ogden Point Sundial . With this sundial, you are the item casting the shadow onto the ground. Just align your feet with the correct markings indicating months and timings in the year to ensure you’re accurate.

3. Walk along the waterfront to Holland Point Park

From the cruise terminal, follow Dallas Road south/south-east.  This route follows the coastline and you’ll enjoy waterfront views of the Strait of Juan de Fuca. 

The road leads to Holland Point Park .  The park is really just a natural area with a path and some benches, but it’s a fantastic place to watch the sunset !

Be sure to follow the trail through the park, the Dallas Road Waterfront Trail.  From here you’ll get the best views of the water, and if you look back towards the north you can see the cruise ships at dock.   

(Our cruise ship was the ‘small’ one on the right in this photo.  The neighboring mega-cruise ship made ours look like a toy!)

4. Enjoy the gardens of Beacon Hill Park

Beacon Hill Park is one of the largest and most beautiful city parks that I have had the pleasure to visit.  This Victorian-era park spans a massive 200 acres and has a wide diversity of attractions. 

You’ll find everything from rose gardens to sports courts to children’s playgrounds (and public washrooms).  Give yourself plenty of time to wander the park’s paths and explore its treasures. 

Prefer to explore a city on two wheels, rather than two feet? Check out this 5-star bike tour ! Cycle past Victoria landmarks while enjoying the fresh air and learning about the city’s colorful past on this Victoria Castles and Neighborhoods Bike Tour !

Manicured Gardens

Beacon Hill Park boasts gorgeous blooms throughout its manicured gardens.  Stoll along the paths and enjoy the lush green lawns edged by glorious blooms, or stop to smell the roses in the Rose Garden .   We even spotted some peacocks fearlessly roaming the park!

In addition to the more formal gardens, you’ll find more natural landscapes. Beacon Hill Park contains portions of the endangered Garry Oak ecosystem. 

Mile Zero Monument

Beacon Hill Park stands at the western end of the main Trans-Canada Highway.  The ‘ Mile Zero ’ monument marks the Victoria end of Highway 1, which stretches all the way to St. John’s on the eastern edge of Canada .

Highway 1 passes through nine of Canada’s ten provinces and many of its major cities.  (Please don’t ask me how a highway can jump from Vancouver Island to the mainland!)

World’s Tallest Totem Pole

Beacon Hill Park contains what claims to be world’s largest free-standing totem pole , although apparently many totem poles claim that title. 

Even Google can’t make up its mind on the height of this one –the name lists 127 feet while the description says 173 feet.  Either way, it is quite impressive and worth a closer look at the carvings and colors.

Splash Park

If you follow Circle Drive westwards, just before you reach the edge of the park, you’ll find the splash park area.    The main feature is this GIANT watering can.  There are controls over to the side that activate the water feature.

I had sent Chris on ahead to take a look around, and then triggered the spray (tee hee).  It’s actually quite a bit of water!  Look closely, and you can see the spray arcing his way. 

The Moss Lady

The Moss Lady is one of the iconic landmarks inside Beacon Hill Park. She was created in 2015 by artist Dale Doebert, and was inspired by the Mud Maid . The Mud Maid is located in the Lost Gardens of Heligan in Cornwall England.

There are some shady benches located across from the Moss Lady , a great place to enjoy this natural artwork.

5. Admire the Victorian Architecture of the Emily Carr House

Many of the grand buildings in the city feature elegant Victorian architecture , but don’t overlook the more everyday buildings. 

As you walk along the side streets heading from the park towards the harbor and museum, you’ll find many lovely examples of Victorian architecture in homes, inns, and shops.

The Emily Carr House and Museum is one of the better-known examples of Victorian architecture, and it’s located just a block from Beacon Hill Park. Emily Carr was a well-known Canadian painter, and her childhood home is now a National Historic Site of Canada .

What, exactly, are the characteristics of Victorian architecture?  Some features include bright colors, steeply pitched roofs, and ornately detailed gables.  You’ll also see wraparound porches and a lot of fancy gingerbread trim .

Victorian houses that are repainted in multiple colors to accent their architectural details are often referred to as ‘painted ladies.’ 

6. See the Totem Poles in Thunderbird Park

As you leave Beacon Hill Park, continue following Douglas Street. This will take you directly to Thunderbird Park .

Thunderbird Park contains many stately totem poles as well as First Nation historic buildings. My favorite of the totem poles is this one, with the gorgeous outstretched wings of the Thunderbird.

Thunderbird Park is an open-air, outdoors collection, so you can see the totem poles for free .

7. Visit the Royal British Columbia Museum

If you’re in the mood to visit a museum during your stay in Victoria, then your best bet is the Royal British Columbia Museum .  This natural history museum features an impressive collection of totem poles both inside the museum in the Totem Hall.  

The Royal BC Museum has an enviable location, on the southwest corner of Belleville Street and Government Street.  To its west is the impressive Legislative Assembly building, and to its north is the stunning Hotel Fairmont Empress.

The second floor of the museum focuses on natural history (think woolly mammoths), with the third floor covering human history from the region’s indigenous peoples to the influx of settlers and how this shaped today’s culture.

Don’t forget about the IMAX Victoria Theater , where you can immerse yourself in experiences spanning from the depths of the oceans to prehistoric dinosaurs.

Museum tickets are quite inexpensive.  Note that access to the IMAX theater needs to be purchased separately from admission to the museum.

8. Listen to the Netherlands Centennial Carillon

Before you leave the grounds of the Royal British Columbia Museum, be sure to look to the north. Here you’ll find the Netherlands Centennial Carillon .

The Netherlands Centennial Carillon was a gift from British Columbia’s Dutch community, given in thanks for Canada’s part in liberating the Netherlands during WWII.

This 62-bell carillon is the largest in Canada. The carillon is reached by climbing a 75-step spiral staircase and a 10-step ladder.

As you walk around Victoria, listen for the bells of the carillon. They play on the hour between 10am and 5pm (October-March) and between 10am and 8pm (April-September).

9. See Christ Church Cathedral

Just a few blocks northeast of the Royal British Columbia Museum is the Christ Church Cathedral .  This Anglican cathedral’s façade is in the Gothic style. 

With its two square towers, pointed archways, and central stained-glass rose window , Christ Church Cathedral reminds me a lot of my favorite cathedral, Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris.

Christ Church Cathedral has a gorgeous triple set of stained-glass windows which resemble outspread wings with vibrant colors and detailed patterns.  It also features an elaborate pipe organ that was actually designed around the rose window.

I was able to climb a set of stairs to get an up-close look at these amazing stained-glass windows. Just be sure to be respectful of the religious space.

10. Admire St. Andrew’s Cathedral

St. Andrew’s Cathedral dates from the 19 th century and is built in the High Victorian Gothic style. The spire of the main tower reaches a height of 175 feet, making the church stand out from the shorter buildings of this neighborhood.

The interior of the cathedral is very bright and airy due to the high arched ceilings.  Sunlight shines in through its many colorful stained-glass windows, including two large rose windows .

11. Check out Victoria’s City Hall

As you approach Chinatown, you’ll see Victoria’s City Hall . Take a quick detour of a half-block to get a closer look.

Victoria’s elegant City Hall building was completed in 1890. It is one of the best remaining examples of the Second Empire architectural style, and it has been designated a National Historic Site.

The Canadian flag proudly flies from the top of City Hall’s clock tower.

12. Visit Canada’s oldest Chinatown

Enter Victoria’s Chinatown through the iconic Gate of Harmonious Interest , located on Fisgard Street. The gate is flanked by two stone lions, which were gifts from Victoria’s sister city of Suzhou. 

Victoria is home to the oldest Chinatown in Canada and the second-oldest in North America (the oldest being in San Francisco).  

As you walk west along Fisgard street approaching the Chinatown gate, stop to take a look at the striking architecture of Victoria’s Chinese Public School.

Chinatown is filled with an amazing variety of restaurants.  You’ll have no problem finding a great place for a meal, but you may have a hard time narrowing down your choices.  Then explore the shops, markets, and boutiques to find the perfect souvenir of your trip to Victoria.

My favorite thing was this whimsical crosswalk as you approach the ornate Chinese gate marking the entrance to Chinatown. How cute is this crosswalk, with the signs of the Chinese Zodiac?

13. Wander through Fan Tan Alley

While you’re in Chinatown, be sure to check out Fan Tan Alley , famed for being the narrowest street in Canada.  

You may recognize it from the movie Bird on a Wire , in which Mel Gibson rides a motorcycle down this narrow alley.

It is named for the Chinese game Fan-Tan, as the area was originally a gambling district—not exactly a safe place to wander!  Today it is a popular tourist destination, so feel free to explore its shops and cafés.

14. Take a whale watching tour from the Inner Harbor

The city of Victoria centers around the inner harbor. From here, you can go for a whale-watching tour (Victoria is one of the best places for whale watching in the world!).

If whales aren’t your thing, you can enjoy harbor tour, or take an unforgettable panoramic seaplane tour . 

The inner harbor has the best panoramic views of Victoria’s most gorgeous buildings.  From here you can see the iconic Empress Hotel, the grand Legislative Assembly, and the stately Steamship Terminal.   

Don’t forget to check out the ‘CANADA’ sign — a picture-perfect view framed by the Legislative Assembly to the left and the columned Steamship Terminal to the right.

15. Enjoy public art and statues

There is a lot of unique public art to be found as you explore Victoria, particularly around the Inner Harbor area near the Destination Greater Victoria Visitor Center.

One of the most popular and touching statues is ‘The Homecoming’, by sculptor Nathan Scott. This shows the special moment of a sailor joyously reuniting with his family.

Just across the street you’ll find ‘The Surfacing’, a living sculpture of an orca surfacing from the waters. The sculpture actually features two orcas, one of them a young one which is hidden behind the larger orca pictured here.

16. See Miniature World

Miniature World bills itself as ‘ The Greatest Little Show on Earth ‘. If you’re a fan of miniaturized displays, you’ll want to make a stop at this museum.

It’s easy to miss this hidden gem, but it’s one of the best Victoria attractions for families.

This whimsical museum contains interactive displays detailing historical events and places, as well as unique features like the World’s Smallest Operating Sawmill.

17. Take Tea at the Hotel Fairmont Empress

The Hotel Fairmont Empress, commonly known as ‘The Empress’, is Victoria’s most iconic hotel (and claims to be one of the 21 most iconic hotels in the world).  It has been honored as a National Historic Site since 1908. 

This hotel looks like it was transported from Europe, with ‘Châteauesque’ elaborate architecture.  The Empress sports a lush green lawn and faces Victoria’s inner harbor, a great location from which to take a photo of this grand hotel.

The Empress is one of the reasons Victoria is one of the best places for a romantic getaway in BC !

Looking for a splurge during your trip to Victoria?   Indulge in afternoon tea at the Empress, an elegant experience featuring sweet and savory goodies. 

Be sure to make a reservation and dress appropriately.  Or, reserve a ‘tea to go’ box and enjoy your tea picnic-style.

18. Stop and smell the roses

Victoria is knows as Canada’s ‘Garden City’ for very good reason. As you’re exploring Victoria, particularly around these main attractions in the zone between the inner harbor and Douglas Street, you can’t help but see all the hanging flower baskets .

On our tour to the Butchart Gardens, our guide told us that there are 12,000 flower baskets in Victoria. They water them with a big tanker truck.

We also learned about Flower Count Week. This occurs in March throughout the Greater Victoria area. In this lighthearted competition, everyone goes out and counts the flowers in their yard, or in a park, and reports that in to a central location.

In 2022, the flower count tallied nearly 28 BILLION flowers ! That is a LOT of flowers.

So, when you’re visiting Victoria, definitely take time to stop and smell the roses — or daisies, or dahlias, or sunflowers..

19. Tour the Legislative Assembly of British Columbia

The Legislative Assembly is a magnificent neo-baroque building with 33 distinctive copper domes.   

A majestic statue of Queen Victoria stands proudly at the front of the grounds.  Pass lush green lawns, a central fountain, and colorful flowerbeds as you approach the stately parliament building.

In the summer months, the parliament buildings are open to the public . 

Take a free guided tour to view the magnificent architecture and to learn about British Columbia’s Legislative Assembly .  Self-guided tours are also available on weekdays. 

Be sure to check out the stained-glass windows and the dome of the Memorial Rotunda.

You can watch the legislature at work from the public galleries – be sure to check the parliamentary calendar to ensure that the legislative assembly will be in session during your visit.   

For a unique experience, dine at the Parliamentary Dining Room (reservations recommended).

20. Check out the Steamship Terminal

As you head west along Belleville Street, you’ll find the curious columned building of the Canadian Pacific Railway Steamship Terminal facing the harbor. 

This unique architecture, in the neo-classical style of a Greek temple, certainly seems a bit out of place amongst the rest of Victoria’s architectural styles.  (Surprisingly, the same architect designed the Empress, the Legislative Assembly, and the Steamship Terminal!)

The Steamship Terminal was built in 1926 and was the arrival point for passengers traveling to Victoria by steamship.  After the era of the steamship had passed, the building was converted into a Madame Tussaud’s Wax Museum. 

Nowadays, the Steamship Terminal has been repurposed once again and is home to the Bateman art gallery as well as a restaurant.  Ferries from Seattle and Port Angeles dock at the nearby Ferry Ramp, with passengers getting their first glimpse of Victoria here.

21. Explore Fisherman’s Wharf

Continue following the roads skirting the edge of the peninsula, and you’ll find Fisherman’s Wharf .  This series of floating piers is home to colorful tiny houses and food kiosks.   

The marina is also filled with pleasure craft, fishing charters, and whale-watching boats.   Join a kayak tour and view Victoria from a different perspective – and maybe make some marine friends with harbor seals or river otters.

At Fisherman’s Wharf, you can catch a water taxi to take you to various waterfront locations.  This will save some wear and tear on your feet if you want to cover more ground on your walking tour of Victoria.

Hungry?  Grab a bite to eat from one of the floating food court vendors, then relax at the adjacent Fisherman’s Wharf Park.

Staying for the weekend?  Here are more great things to do in Victoria:

If you’re staying in Victoria for the weekend or a few days, then you will be able to spend a lot more time exploring all of the great things to do in Victoria. 

Some attractions, such as Craigdarroch Castle, are still within the city but just a bit further from the harbor area we explored with the cruise port walk.  If you want to visit Hatley Castle, that is located just a short drive outside the city.

And, if you love exploring the great outdoors, there are plenty of great hikes near Victoria to enjoy!

22. Explore Hatley Castle

While you’re driving around the greater Victoria area, you should plan to visit Hatley Castle .  Hatley Castle is about a half hour’s drive from Butchart Gardens, or about a twenty-minute drive westward from Victoria.

Hatley Castle is a gorgeous mansion dating from 1908, when it was the opulent residence of coal magnate James Dunsmuir. 

In 1940 the estate was purchased by the Department of National Defense.  For fifteen years, this magnificent estate was used as a dormitory for the Royal Roads Military University.  (My dorm certainly didn’t look like this!)

The grounds of the estate are vast with three formal gardens : smell the blooms of the Rose Garden, view the pleasing symmetry of the Italian Garden, and enjoy the tranquility of the Japanese Garden.

Cinema fans might recognize Hatley Castle from appearances in several movies including the X-Men films (as Professor Xavier’s School for Gifted Youngsters).   Hatley Castle also serves as the estate of Lex Luthor in the TV series Smallville.

You can take a guided tour of the estate which includes access to the first floor of the castle as well as the gardens.  You may also explore the gardens and estate grounds on your own.

23. Visit Craigdarroch Castle

While we’re on the topic of castles, within the city of Victoria lies another famous one — Craigdarroch Castle .  Craigdarroch Castle was also built by the Dunsmuir family, in this case by the patriarch, Robert Dunsmuir. 

Craigdarroch Castle is a Scottish Baronial mansion which was built in the late 1800’s during the Victorian era.  It looks like something straight out of a fairytale and styles itself as ‘ Canada’s Castle ’.

Craigdarroch Castle is a ‘ bonanza castle ’ – a fancy mansion built by industrialists who made their fortunes in the industrial age (coal, in the case of the Dunsmuirs).

 No cost was spared in the building of this castle, as evidenced in its elaborate woodworking and intricate stained-glass windows.

Taking a self-guided tour of this castle is like taking a step back in time, as it is outfitted with period décor and furnishings.  Craigdarroch Castle is open for tours on Wednesday-Sunday.

It’s one of the most interesting places to visit in Victoria Canada !

Victoria Canada Map of Top Attractions

You can also download a printable version of my Victoria attractions map (made by my husband Chris!):

Well, that does it for this visit!  You can see there are plenty of great things to do in Victoria, BC , whether you’re visiting for a few hours, or for a few days.  I hope you’ve found a few reasons to add a trip to Victoria to your travel destination bucket list!

Planning on taking a trip to Victoria? You won’t want to miss out on any of these great attractions. Pin this for later!

You might also enjoy these posts about my favorite places to travel in Canada:

• Best Food Tours in Montreal
• Montreal Botanical Garden Highlights
• Best Tours in Ottawa
• Best Things to Do in Ottawa
• Montreal vs Toronto: Which is the Best City to Visit?

You might also enjoy these posts about my favorite Alaska cruise ports:

• 9 Best Alaska Cruise Ports: Discover Nature’s Beauty
• Best Things to Do in Ketchikan on a Cruise
• Best Things to Do in Seattle in One Day

Lisa Garrett

Lisa Garrett is the founder of Waves and Cobblestones. She has taken 18 cruises ranging from a multi-generational Caribbean cruise to solo Alaska cruises to fabulous Mediterranean cruises.

She lived in Ireland for 4 months and has taken over a half-dozen multi-city vacations in Europe (primarily relying on train and public transit). Lisa helps people plan amazing vacations to Europe and popular cruise destinations.

Learn more about Lisa !

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36 Best Things to Do in Victoria, BC

Victoria, BC is one of our favorite places in the world and it’s not hard to see why. There’s just so much to love about this beautiful city!

Located on Vancouver Island’s southern edge, Victoria — the capital city of British Columbia — offers an amazing blend of natural coastal beauty, historical architecture, friendly locals, incredible restaurants, mild climate, and so many fun things to do!

As locals, we feel incredibly lucky to call this beautiful city home. Since moving here, we’ve explored every nook and cranny of Victoria and have uncovered some of the best things to do and places to see in the city.

Below, we cover the best things to do and see in Victoria, based on our local knowledge and experiences. We share the top activities, hidden gems, and must-visit landmarks, with insider tips to help you make the most of your time in our beloved city. Enjoy!

Best Things to Do in Victoria, BC

From scenic seaplane flights and whale watching tours to famous flower gardens and beautiful beaches, Victoria is packed full of top things to do, beautiful places to see, and fun activities for just about every type of traveler!

Owing to the sheer abundance of activities, it can be hard to decide on what to do in Victoria, BC. We’ve been living here for years but still haven’t done and seen everything!

Don’t worry though — we’re here to help you pick the best things to do, places to see, activities, and must-visit attractions when visiting Victoria. Read on to discover the best that this city has to offer!

1. Butchart Gardens

Visiting the world-famous Butchart Gardens easily makes it to the top of our list of the best things to do in Victoria, BC — and for good reason!

One of the most popular gardens and tourist spots in Victoria, the Butchart Gardens are a must-see destination, year-round. Formerly a limestone quarry, the 55-acre property now houses thousands of colorful flowers and perfectly manicured plants, as well as stunning fountains, unique sculptures, totem poles, and even a carousel!

Related Article: Beautiful Gardens around Victoria, BC

Some of the most picturesque areas include the Sunken Garden, which is breathtaking every time we see it, and the Japanese Garden, complete with a towering Torii gate and gorgeous Japanese maples. We also love the impressive Ross Fountain and bronze Butchart Boar statue — apparently, rubbing its nose is good luck!

As if that all wasn’t enough, the Butchart Gardens also puts on a spectacular fireworks display on Saturday evenings in summer. And in December, the gardens transform into a magical winter wonderland of twinkling lights and festive decorations during the Magic of Christmas event .

Related Article: Festive Things to Do at Christmas in Victoria, BC

Located in Brentwood Bay, the gardens are just a quick half-hour drive from downtown Victoria. Don’t have your own car to get there? This Butchart Gardens shuttle bus (admission included) will take you from downtown Victoria to the gardens, and back after!

For a daytrip from Vancouver to Victoria, this Butchart Gardens Tour from Vancouver will shuttle you by bus and ferry from Vancouver to Victoria and back. They even pick you up from your hotel in Vancouver.

Alternatively, arrive to Victoria in style on a seaplane flight from Vancouver , which includes transportation and admission to Butchart Gardens. Both of these day trips will also give you time to explore the Inner Harbour and see sights like Chinatown, BC Parliament Buildings, and the Empress Hotel.

Book the Butchart Gardens Shuttle Bus Here!

Book the butchart gardens bus tour from vancouver here, book the butchart gardens seaplane tour from vancouver here, 2. whale watching tour.

Who doesn’t want to experience the magic of spotting whales around Victoria?

Whale watching tours are one of the best ways to see these magnificent marine mammals, while also exploring Victoria’s coastal waters while you’re at it. If you’re lucky, you might spot a whale from land — but these tours guarantee a sighting!

Around Victoria, you’ll have the chance to spot gray, humpback, and minke whales, as well as our favorite — orcas! There are also the smaller Pacific white-sided dolphins, harbour porpoises, and Dall’s porpoises, as well as other marine animals like Steller and California sea lions, harbour seals, river otters, and seabirds.

With a whale watching tour (like this half-day tour ), you’ll search for whales while experiencing the beauty of the Salish Sea. Don’t forget your camera! Thanks to marine experts, you’ll also learn more about the ecology of the whales in the area.

Sunset whale watching tours are our favorite. Ideal for photographers, these evening tours take you onto the water just before the sun sets, searching for whales in the golden light of dusk.

If you want to enjoy the sun more while you’re on the water, there are also half-day whale watching tours that head out in the morning or afternoon. You can choose to go out on a semi-covered vessel or for the more adventurous, a zodiac boat . If you don’t want to get splashed, we highly recommend sticking with the semi-covered boats!

Book the Sunset Whale Watching Tour Here!

Book the half-day whale watching tour (semi-covered boat) here, book the half-day whale watching tour (zodiac boat) here, 3. walking food tour.

Foodies, rejoice! A walking food tour in Victoria is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in the city for those who want to experience all the local tastes.

Munch your way through Victoria’s culinary scene while enjoying a guided walking tour of the city with this Food and History Tour . Enjoy many local foods while learning about the rich history of the city!

Starting at the Victoria Public Market, you’ll explore highlights around downtown Victoria. Marvel at the Gate of Harmonious Interest in Chinatown, walk down the incredibly narrow Fan Tan Alley, stop at the historic Bastion Square, explore the charming Trounce Alley, and more!

Along the way, you’ll stop for food tastings from various local restaurants. Participants get to taste a wide range of locally sourced foods, from fresh seafood and artisanal cheeses to locally brewed beers and handcrafted chocolates.

The knowledgeable and friendly guides make this experience enjoyable and informative for all ages, making it a must-do activity for any visitor to Victoria!

Book a Food and History Walking Tour Here!

4. chinatown & fan tan alley.

Victoria is home to Canada’s oldest Chinatown (and North America’s second oldest), which is just north of downtown. This historical neighborhood offers visitors a taste of Chinese culture, with its vibrant colors, traditional architecture, delicious cuisine, and boutique shops.

The entrance of Chinatown is marked by the famous Gate of Harmonious Interest. This 38-foot tall ornate gate spans over Fisgard Street and welcomes visitors to the neighborhood with its intricate designs and stone lion sculptures.

Despite being small, Victoria’s Chinatown is packed full of unique shops selling all kinds of goods and souvenirs, restaurants serving Chinese cuisine like dim sum or bubble tea, grocery stores with specialty foods like durian and lychee, and narrow alleyways.

Don’t miss the easily-overlooked Fan Tan Alley while wandering around Chinatown. A hidden gem in Victoria, Fan Tan Alley is the narrowest street in all of Canada at only 0.9 meters (35 inches) wide in places! Marked only by a small sign on a lamppost, it’s easy to walk past this small street — keep your eyes peeled!

One of the best ways to fully experience Victoria’s Chinatown is on a two-hour Eat, Drink, and Explore Chinatown walking tour. On the tour, you’ll learn about the history of Chinatown’s heritage sites like the Chinese Language School, the Gate of Harmonious Interest, and Fan Tan Alley.

And of course, this food tour lets you sample a variety of foods and drinks from local vendors in the Victoria Public Market and Market Square. You’ll be treated to locally-roasted coffees, savory hand pies, arancini, and even some craft beer!

Book the Eat, Drink, Explore Chinatown Tour Here!

5. seaplane flight.

Scenic floatplane tours are one of the best ways to see Victoria — from a bird’s eye view!

Soaring above the city skyline is the ideal way to admire all the great sights that Victoria is known for. Not only that, the seaplanes take off and land right in the Inner Harbour.

If you haven’t flown in a floatplane before, it’s quite a unique experience!

Book a Panorama Seaplane Tour for an unforgettable adventure. You’ll board the seaplane at the Victoria Harbour Airport terminal. Then, the floatplane will skim quickly along the water of Victoria’s Harbour before taking to the skies.

From above, you’ll be treated to spectacular aerial views of Victoria and Vancouver Island’s southern coast. Look for landmarks like the Saanich Peninsula, Finlayson Arm, Mount Douglas, Salt Spring Island, and the distant Olympic Mountains over the Strait of Juan de Fuca.

Overall, a scenic floatplane tour is an excellent way to see the city of Victoria and its surroundings from a unique perspective, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Book a Scenic Floatplane Tour Here!

6. beacon hill park.

Looking for one of the best free things to do in Victoria? Check out Beacon Hill Park!

Beacon Hill Park is an expansive 75 hectare (200 acre) park by the Dallas Road waterfront. Not only does this park command an excellent location right by the ocean, but it is also within walking distance of downtown.

Often considered the crown jewel park of Victoria, Beacon Hill features rare Garry Oak meadows that fill with blossoms in the spring, year-round flower gardens , lily ponds with turtles, beautiful fountains, sports fields of all kinds, and more.

There’s even the Beacon Hill Children’s Farm (admission by donation), one of the fun family-friendly things to do in Victoria.

Beacon Hill Park is also home to what was once the tallest free-standing totem pole in the world. You’ll find this impressive carved cedar tree near the woods beside Dallas Road. Often, there will be a bald eagle perched at the very top!

Wander through Beacon Hill Park on foot or treat yourself to a scenic horse-drawn carriage ride through the park. As you explore, keep your eyes peeled for unique sights like colorful peacocks or the Moss Lady statue. In the summer, the park is a popular spot for picnics, especially during the weekend concerts held at the Cameron Bandshell.

7. Horse-Drawn Carriage Tour

One of the most unique ways to explore Victoria is on a horse-drawn carriage tour . Enjoy the clip-clop of the horses’ hooves on the pavement and the gentle pace of the carriage as you take in the sights and sounds of this beautiful city.

These relaxing tours take visitors through Victoria’s picturesque downtown, past must-see spots, and beside the waterfront. Along the way, you’ll see iconic landmarks like the Inner Harbour, BC Parliament Buildings and Empress Hotel.

Throughout the tour, your knowledgeable guide will share stories and anecdotes about the city as you ride through its streets.

For a full show of all that downtown Victoria has to offer, we recommend this 60-minute horse-drawn carriage tour . The tour cost covers the entire carriage (up to 6 people), making this one of the top things to do in Victoria with a group or for a romantic date.

You’ll start the tour beside the Empress Hotel and then journey through the stunning Beacon Hill Park. After, the carriage will head along the Dallas Road waterfront. Enjoy incredible views of the Olympic Mountains over the Strait of Juan de Fuca, before heading back downtown through the historic James Bay neighborhood.

Book the Horse Drawn Carriage Tour Here!

8. bc parliament buildings.

Located in the heart of downtown Victoria, the BC Parliament Buildings are truly a sight to behold. Standing on the edge of the Inner Harbour, the neo-baroque buildings feature a grand façade, renaissance-style copper domes, statues of historical figures, gorgeous water fountains, and more.

The Parliament Buildings are home to the Legislative Assembly of British Columbia, but you don’t need to be a fan of politics, history, or architecture to visit this beautiful landmark. Many visitors walk its gorgeous grounds to enjoy views of these iconic buildings or to just to snap a photo of the front.

While visitors often stop to admire the front of the British Columbia Parliament Buildings, there is so much more to see than just that! Make sure to walk around the buildings to spot sights like the Centennial Fountain, Rose Garden, and all of the various statues and monuments. Visit at night to admire the building’s exterior lights, too.

And yes, you can go inside the Parliament Buildings! Don’t miss seeing the grand interior, like we did when we first moved here.

Entry is free from Monday to Friday, 8:30 am to 4:30 pm. There are free self-guided or public tours, which include the Rotunda, Legislative Chamber, Legislative Library, and Hall of Honour.

Whether you want to observe a debate from the public gallery, take pictures of the stained glass windows (there are hundreds of them!), or see the traditional hand-crafted Shxwtitostel canoe, rest assured that there’s always plenty to keep you entertained for the day!

9. Craigdarroch Castle

Did you know that there’s a castle near downtown Victoria?

Craigdarroch Castle is a beautiful Victorian-era mansion located in the heart of Victoria near the Government House — and it’s actually one of TWO castles in the city!

Originally, Craigdarroch Castle was an extravagant home for the wealthy coal baron Robert Dunsmuir and his family, built in the late 1800s. Now, the castle is a National Historic Site and a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Victoria.

Wander through the castle on a self-guided tour, learning about its fascinating history and that of the family that lived there. The castle is open from Thursday through Sunday (10:00 am – 4:00 pm).

Even if you don’t want to tour the castle, it’s worth stopping by to see the outside! The historic building really stands out in the Rockland neighborhood. When the cherry blossoms bloom in spring, the castle combined with the pink flowers make for stunning photographs!

For a unique experience, consider joining a 2.5-hour Craigdarroch Castle Pedicab Tour which combines your castle admission with a pedicab tour of the area. On the way to the castle, you’ll pass by points of interest like the Government House (the gardens here are free and worth a visit ).

If you haven’t had enough of castles after exploring Craigdarroch, you can always head over to Hatley Castle in Colwood, another National Historic Site located just 20 minutes away!

Book a Craigdarroch Castle Pedicab Tour Here!

10. fairmont empress hotel.

A visit to the historic and iconic Empress Hotel is an absolute must-do when you’re in Victoria, BC. While the Empress is one of the best oceanfront hotels in Victoria , it’s not just a hotel but a cultural landmark that has played an integral part in the city’s history for over 100 years.

One of the world’s most famous hotels, The Empress was built in the early 1900s and designated a National Historic Site in the 1980s. The hotel has hosted numerous celebrities and dignitaries over the years, including Queen Elizabeth II, King George VI, and Shirley Temple.

To experience the most that The Empress has to offer, book a stay in one of its many luxurious guest rooms. But that’s not the only thing you can do at this hotel!

The Empress is well known for its world-renowned afternoon tea, a time-honored ritual lasting for over a century. This elegant experience treats guests to a selection of teas, finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones, and decadent pastries, served on royal china and accompanied with classical piano.

Make reservations in advance — this is easily one of the most coveted activities in Victoria! Just be forewarned — the afternoon tea is on the pricey side.

Even if you don’t stay or eat at The Empress, make sure to visit this iconic landmark. The hotel’s stunning architecture and location on Victoria’s Inner Harbour make for some beautiful photographs. A visit to The Empress is a truly unforgettable experience that combines luxury, history, and stunning views, making it one of the best things to do in Victoria!

Check The Empress Hotel Prices Here!

11. inner harbor.

Don’t miss visiting the Inner Harbour if you’re looking for the must-see destinations in Victoria!

One of the most beautiful harbors in the world, Victoria’s Inner Harbour has everything — picturesque waterfront views, historic buildings, delicious dining options, boutique shops, and a vibrant atmosphere that truly captures the essence of the city. In addition, the harbor services many businesses like whale watching and floatplane tours .

Take a stroll along the harbor causeway and admire the stunning architecture of the Fairmont Empress Hotel and British Columbia Parliament Buildings. During the summer months, this area turns into bustling tourist hotspot with street performers, music, food vendors, and sightseers from all over the world.

Visitors can also enjoy whale watching excursions or simply relax in one of the many waterfront cafes and restaurants. If you’re feeling adventurous, join a guided kayak tour to explore the waters of the Inner Harbour — one of the best harbours to paddle around in the world!

Of course, no visit to Victoria’s Inner Harbor would be complete without checking out the iconic Pickle Boats. These small ferry boats cruise all around the harbour, connecting different destinations like Chinatown, Fisherman’s Wharf, and the Empress. And yes, these water taxis are shaped like tiny pickles!

12. Royal BC Museum

Home to over 7 million specimens and artifacts, the Royal BC Museum is one of the largest in Canada — and well worth a visit!

This world-class museum is dedicated to both human and natural history, offering incredible learning experiences for visitors of all ages. Visiting the museum is one of the best family-friendly things to do in Victoria — but it’s also lots of fun for adults too!

One of the most beloved exhibits at the Royal BC Museum is the Giant Mammoth. This life-size replica is named Woolly and was based on a real-life mammoth skeleton discovered in 1931.

For an immersive experience, check out the Old Town exhibit, designed to make visitors feel like they’re meandering through Victoria’s cobbled streets back at the turn of the century.

The museum also regularly brings in traveling exhibits, so there are always new things to see!

When you’re done look at artefacts, stop by the IMAX theatre in the Royal BC Museum to check out a movie or informative documentary. There are showtimes all through the day!

No trip to the Royal B.C. Museum would be complete without a visit to Thunderbird Park, known for its impressive collection of totem poles. Located just outside the museum, Thunderbird Park is free to visit — so make sure to check it out!

The Royal BC Museum is a must-see destination in Victoria, with its vast collection of specimens and artifacts, incredible exhibits, IMAX theatre, and stunning outdoor Thunderbird Park. Visiting this museum is a great way to spend a day and learn more about the fascinating history and culture of the area.

Note: The Royal BC Museum’s third floor is currently closed as they work on decolonization and renovation of the galleries. Click here for the museum’s current exhibitions .

13. Ghostly Walking Tour

Looking for a unique activity to do in Victoria ? If you’re in the mood for something different, consider taking a ghost tour of the city’s downtown!

The 60-minute Ghostly Walking Tours offer an unusual and intriguing way to experience the city. Led by talented storytellers, this spooky tour guides you through some of downtown’s most haunted spots. You’ll also get to see many of Victoria’s well known landmarks along the way.

Get ready to be spooked as your knowledgeable guide shares Victoria’s ghost stories and tragic tales! One of the best things about this tour is the opportunity to learn more about the unusual side of Victoria’s history.

Whether you’re a history buff or simply looking for an eerie adventure, this tour offers something for everyone. Don’t miss out on this spine-tingling opportunity to explore Victoria’s haunted history!

Book a Ghostly Walking Tour Here!

14. fisherman’s wharf.

Just a short walk around the corner from the Inner Harbour, you’ll find the quirky Fisherman’s Wharf. A floating marine destination, this must-visit spot features brightly-colored float homes, outdoor eateries, unique souvenir shops, and various ecotourism businesses like whale watching tours .

The colorful floating homes are one of the most whimsical features of Fisherman’s Wharf. Unfortunately, they are private residences and can’t be explored. But, if you want to experience what it’s like to stay in a floating home, book a room at the Fisherman’s Wharf Floating Bed & Breakfast !

Fisherman’s Wharf is a great spot to head for lunch. The floating outdoor restaurants serve all types of seafood, from fish n’ chips to freshly caught shellfish. Enjoy your meal at a picnic table, while taking in the lively atmosphere and watching the boats come and go. You might even catch a glimpse of seals!

After, if you’ve got some extra time to spare, you can always hop on a water taxi to explore the rest of Victoria’s Harbour. Alternatively, join one of the whale watching tours that depart from Fisherman’s Wharf to spot some marine wildlife like orcas and sea lions.

As a heads up, Fisherman’s Wharf is best visited in the summer months. Most businesses at the wharf are shut during the winter season. Also, expect crowds during peak tourist season!

Check Fisherman’s Wharf Floating Bed & Breakfast Prices Here!

15. victoria butterfly gardens.

Visiting the Victoria Butterfly Gardens is the perfect activity for a rainy or chilly day in the city. These indoor gardens provide an escape to the tropics without leaving British Columbia!

As you enter the gardens, you will be greeted by up to 70 species of butterflies, fluttering free among the plants. Our favorites are the massive atlas moths (which live less than a week after leaving their cocoons) and the orange-and-black monarch butterflies (known for their incredible multi-generational migrations).

Adding to the jungle experience, the gardens also house free-flying parrots and other tropical birds, like Caribbean flamingos! Other animals you’ll get to see include iguanas, tortoises, turtles, and poison dart frogs. You’ll also find a small stream, waterfall, and pond full of tropical fish!

Not only that, the indoor garden is a botanical wonderland. Here, you’ll find all kinds of flowers and plants from different parts of the world. They even have carnivorous plants that eat insects and sensitive Mimosa plants that close their leaves after being touched.

A visit to the Victoria Butterfly Gardens is a perfect way to spend a relaxing and fun-filled afternoon with your loved ones. Plus, since the Victoria Butterfly Gardens are located near Brentwood Bay, it’s an excellent activity to add to your day’s itinerary before or after visiting the Butchart Gardens.

Book Victoria Butterfly Garden Admission Tickets Here!

16. beaches.

It’s no secret that some of the most beautiful beaches in British Columbia are found in Victoria. After all, the city is practically surrounded by the ocean!

Willows Beach is by far the most popular beach in Victoria. One of the few sandy beaches in town, it does admittedly get crowded in the summer… but it’s so worth visiting.

With a grassy park, soft sand, and shallow water, Willows Beach is the perfect spot for a picnic, long walk, or quick dip in the ocean. We also love playing spikeball here!

Another incredible sandy beach in Victoria is Gonzales Beach . Located in a sheltered bay, we find that Gonzales is one of the best beaches in Victoria to head on a windy day. The water here is calm, making it a family-friendly beach that’s great for swimming — if you can brave the cold water, that is!

Head to the Dallas Road waterfront for another beautiful beach — Spiral Beach. This rocky beach isn’t great for swimming but it’s incredibly scenic! There are stairs to get down to the beach near Cook Street or Clover Point.

Looking for more beaches in Victoria to explore? Check out our articles on the best sandy beaches , most beautiful beaches , and most accessible beaches in town!

17. Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Bus

Hop-on hop-off buses are one of the best ways to explore the beautiful city of Victoria. Not to mention, they are all double-decker buses with an open top half — which makes them loads more fun to ride than a normal bus!

These sightseeing buses offer a convenient and flexible way to see the city’s top attractions. You get unlimited access for a half day. The buses are available from March through to October.

Points of interest on the bus routes include the Fairmont Empress Hotel , Craigdarroch Castle, Chinatown, Old Town, Fisherman’s Wharf, Inner Harbour, BC Parliament Buildings, Christ Church Cathedral, Oak Bay Village and Marina, Cook Street Village, and the Breakwater .

With the freedom to get off at any stop and explore at your own pace, you can customize your tour according to your interests and schedule. They are the perfect way to get around if you don’t have a vehicle!

Buy Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tickets Here!

18. government street.

Government Street is easily one of the most vibrant and pedestrian-friendly roads in Victoria. If you want to see some of the city’s iconic landmarks, check out local restaurants and bars, or just love shopping, this is the place to head!

While the street starts at Dallas Road and runs all the way to Douglas Street, the central portion (between Chinatown and the Inner Harbour) is the most lively and packed full of top things to do.

An entertainment and shopping hub, Government Street is lined with an assortment of boutique stores, restaurants, bars, historical buildings, and iconic landmarks. In the summer, there are often street performers, too!

Walking is the best way to explore Government Street. We recommend that you start at Beacon Hill Park or the BC Parliament buildings and head north towards Chinatown. Along the way, you’ll spot all kinds of must-see tourist destinations, including Bastion Square and the Empress.

If you want to learn more about the history of this area, we recommend joining a Historical Victoria Walking Tour !

Book a Historical Walking Tour Here!

19. malahat skywalk.

Looking for unparalleled views of the Salish Sea? If so, the Malahat SkyWalk should be at the top of your itinerary when visiting Victoria!

One of the more unique things to do in Victoria, the Malahat SkyWalk is a spiral 32-m high tower offering 360-degree views from the top. You’ll be able to see the Finlayson Arm, Saanich Peninsula, and all the way to Mount Baker!

Here’s one of the most fun parts about the Malahat Skywalk: when you’re done at the top, you get to slide all the way back down!

The Spiral Slide is 50 m (165 feet) long and 20 m (65 feet) tall. You can ride it as many times as you’d like.

There’s also an exciting adventure net at the top of the tower. Walk on it if you dare (don’t worry — it’s safe)!

The Malahat SkyWalk is just north of Victoria on the Malahat Highway, along the edge of the Saanich Inlet. You’ll need a vehicle to get there. If you don’t have one, consider this round-trip shuttle service from downtown Victoria (which also includes your admission ticket).

Book Malahat SkyWalk Shuttle and Admission Tickets Here!

20. pkols (mount douglas park).

For incredible 360-degree views of Vancouver Island and the Salish Sea, head to PKOLS (aka Mount Douglas Park) in Saanich.

At 225 meters high, the summit of Mount Doug offers spectacular views of much of Victoria and the surrounding regions. You’ll be able to see downtown Victoria, the rural Saanich Peninsula, Cordova Bay, and even Washington’s Olympic and Cascade Mountains.

There are many hiking trails that lead to the top of PKOLS. Alternatively, you can walk, bike, or drive up to the summit via Churchill Drive. The road is closed to vehicles until noon.

Don’t miss Mount Doug Beach when exploring the park! The beach is located near the large parking lot off Cordova Bay Road. We also recommend parking here, as the Churchill Drive parking lot is quite small.

21. Hot Tub Boat

Do you know what’s better than sightseeing on foot? Exploring Victoria from the cozy comfort of a hot tub boat , of course!

Hot tub boats are one of the most unique and fun ways to explore the Gorge Waterway and Upper Harbour of Victoria. These are Canada’s first hot tub boats and they are a blast to cruise around in.

The floating wood-fired hot tubs launch near the Johnson Street bridge. Each private hot tub boat rental has 1.5 hours on the water. You can cruise all the way to the Selkirk Trestle and back in that time!

The hot tub boats are equipped with waterproof speakers. Enjoy your favorite music while gazing out at Victoria’s historic waterfront. When you’re too hot, you can even go for a swim to cool off, thanks to the onboard ladder!

Book a Hot Tub Boat Here!

22. goldstream provincial park.

Goldstream Provincial Park has it all: stunning waterfalls, incredible wildlife viewing opportunities, moss-covered forests, hiking trails, camping, epic panoramic views of the city…

Despite being on the city’s edge, this park is one of the best places to visit in Victoria if you’re a fan of the outdoors. It’s only 16-km from downtown Victoria, located at the start of the Malahat in Langford.

Goldstream is best known for its impressive salmon run in the fall. Thousands of Chum salmon return to the river and swim upstream to spawn. Visitors can watch this spectacle from late October through November. It’s also a great time of year to see the animals that feed upon the salmon, like bald eagles!

The park features one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Victoria — Niagara Falls. Yes, it has the same name as the one in Ontario. Now while it’s admittedly much smaller than its massive namesake in the east, Goldstream’s Niagara Falls is still quite beautiful! You’ll also find another waterfall, Goldstream Falls, near the campground.

Related Articles: Best Waterfalls Around Victoria, BC

Goldstream Provincial Park is also home to Mount Finlayson, one of Greater Victoria’s highest points and best scenic viewpoints . We do have to point out that the hike to the top isn’t exactly easy since it’s also the steepest trail in the area. But the view from the top is totally worth it, with amazing vistas of the island from every angle!

23. Hiking Trails

Do you love hiking? If so, here’s the great news about Victoria: the city is packed full of hiking trails, with options suitable for just about every fitness level!

A favorite of ours is PKOLS (Mount Douglas Park) which just so happens to be one of Victoria’s most dog-friendly hikes . The top of Mount Doug (as locals often call it) offers some of the best views of the city . The summit takes about 20-40 minutes of walking, depending on your fitness level.

If you’re in the mood for something strenuous, climb to the top of Mount Finlayson in Goldstream Provincial Park. Remember to wear your best hiking boots since the walk to the top is super steep!

For a more relaxing walk, you could always check out the hiking paths around Thetis Lake. Or if you’re looking for spectacular ocean views, we highly recommend hiking part of the Coast Trail in East Sooke Park.

Traveling with kids or need a more accessible walk? Check out the Dallas Road Waterfront Trail, Kinsol Trestle Bridge, or Songhees Walkway!

24. Southern Gulf Islands

While Victoria itself has plenty of things to do, visiting one of the Southern Gulf Islands is an unforgettable experience that shouldn’t be missed.

While the Gulf Islands archipelago stretches along much of Vancouver Island, the main islands around Victoria are Salt Spring, Galiano, Saturna, Mayne, Pender, and Sidney Islands. Despite how close these islands are to Victoria, they have a distinct feel that makes them worthwhile adding to your Vancouver Island itinerary.

Each of the Southern Gulf Islands has its own charm and attractions, from the laid-back vibe of Galiano Island to the rugged beauty of Saturna Island. Salt Spring Island (also called Saltspring) is the largest, most developed, and most popular to visit.

Mayne Island features beautiful coastline, while Pender Island offers breathtaking hiking trails and chances to spot orcas. Sidney Island feels like a hidden gem, with long sandy beaches and tidal flats.

No matter which island you choose to visit, you’ll find a welcoming community, stunning island scenery, vibrant arts scene, farm-to-table foods, and plenty of opportunities for relaxation and adventure.

And with regular ferry service to and from Victoria, getting to the Gulf Islands is a breeze. These beautiful islands are perfect for a day trip (or longer) and the ferry is a great way to see the ocean scenery around Victoria!

25. Thetis Lake Regional Park

When we first moved to Victoria, Thetis Lake Regional Park quickly became one of our favorite spots in the city — and that hasn’t changed to this day!

Thetis Lake is a 921-hectare natural area featuring two beautiful lakes: Upper and Lower Thetis Lakes. Both lakes are quite popular for swimming, floating, kayaking, and just about any lakeside activity you can think of.

There’s also the smaller Prior Lake, but be warned — it’s clothing-optional!

Not only that, the park has over 40 kilometers of hiking trails. Wander through Douglar fir forests, explore around the lakes, and hike up to beautiful viewpoints at the top of Stewart Mountain, Seymour, or Scafe Hills.

Great for swimming, Thetis Lake is a very busy destination on hot days. In the summer, we highly recommend arriving before noon to beat the crowds. Parking gets pretty ridiculous, so arriving early will let you find a parking space and enjoy the lake before it gets busy.

Thetis Lake also offers ideal conditions for stand-up paddleboarding. Check out this paddleboarding lesson that’ll take you from the Main Beach to Upper Thetis Lake. Ideal for beginners, you’ll learn how to use a paddleboard while exploring the beautiful lakes!

Book a Thetis Lake Stand-Up Paddleboarding Session Here!

26. fort rodd hill & fisgard lighthouse.

Looking for a family-friendly thing to do or just want to learn about Victoria’s history? If so, head to Fort Rodd Hill and the Fisgard Lighthouse in Colwood!

Both National Historic Sites, Fort Rodd Hill and the Fisgard Lighthouse offer a fascinating glimpse into Canada’s military and maritime history. The two sites are directly adjacent to each other.

Built in the 1890’s, Fort Rodd Hill was once an important coastal defense for Vancouver Island. Now, visitors can explore the historic remains, including gun batteries, barracks, command posts, and underground magazines, all while enjoying scenic ocean views.

Meanwhile, the Fisgard Lighthouse is the oldest lighthouse on Canada’s west coast, dating back to 1860. While it no longer has a keeper, the red-and-white lighthouse is still operational. Enter the lighthouse to learn about everything from shipwrecks to lighthouse keepers.

Admission to Fort Rodd Hill and the Fisgard Lighthouse is cheap, under $10 for adults and free for youths, making them one of the best cheap things to do in Victoria!

Did you enjoy these historic sites? Visit Macaulay Point Park next! Here, you’ll find Fort Macaulay, another coastal defense battery that’s free to visit!

27. Juan de Fuca Provincial Park

Offering spectacular hiking trails, breathtaking beaches, seaside backcountry camping, hidden waterfalls, wildlife spotting opportunities, and tide pools galore , the Juan de Fuca Provincial Park is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream come true!

One of the park’s main draws is the Juan de Fuca Marine Trail. This popular hiking and backpacking trail stretches over 40 km along Vancouver Island’s shoreline, between China Beach and Botanical Beach near Port Renfrew.

The Juan de Fuca Marine Trail neighbors the famous West Coast Trail, which starts on the other side of Port Renfrew!

Within the park, you’ll find several incredibly beautiful beaches. From the bowl-shaped tide pools of Botanical Beach to the hidden waterfall at Sombrio, it’s worth checking out all of the beaches along this stretch of protected coastline.

Be sure to check out Mystic Beach, accessed via a short hike through the forest. Here, you’ll find a waterfall that tumbles directly onto the beach!

If you want to stay in the park overnight, there is frontcountry camping in the China Beach Campground. Most of the beaches also allow backcountry camping, with a permit.

28. Waterfalls

While Victoria may be known for its beautiful gardens and picturesque coastline, the city is also home to some stunning waterfalls that are not to be missed.

Chasing waterfalls is one of the top activities in Victoria for those seeking a little adventure and some incredible natural beauty. Because the waterfalls get more impressive after a good rainfall (and some even dry up in the summer), this is one of the best things to do in Victoria in the rainy winter season.

One of the most popular waterfalls in Victoria is Goldstream Provincial Park’s Niagara Falls. The waterfall is close to the parking lot and you can walk almost right up the base of the falls, depending on the time of year.

Another beautiful waterfall to visit is Sitting Lady Falls in Witty’s Lagoon Regional Park. This waterfall resembles a sitting lady wearing a dress of water!

If you don’t mind driving outside of town, head to the Juan de Fuca Provincial Park for a couple of waterfalls right by the beach. Both Mystic and Sombrio Beaches feature waterfalls.

While Mystic Beach’s waterfall tumbles right onto the sand, you’ll need to search for the falls on Sombrio. Hint — the waterfall is hidden down a forest trail on the east side of the beach!

Click here to learn about more beautiful waterfalls in Victoria!

29. Cowichan Valley Wine Tour

Did you know that one of the major wine regions in British Columbia is found on Vancouver Island?

Most of Vancouver Island’s vineyards are located in the Cowichan Valley, just north of Victoria. While the vineyards on the island operate at a smaller scale than those in the BC Interior, the wines they produce are just as delicious!

With mild temperatures and a long growing season, the Cowichan Valley creates the ideal conditions for growing delicious grapes. Cowichan, a name given by the Quw’utsun people, even reflects the region’s Mediterranean climate and means “to warm one’s back in the sun”!

If you ask us, the Cowichan Valley is the ideal place for sipping on some of the best wines in the country. And the best way to experience the region’s incredible wine scene is by booking a wine tour!

Perfect for wine aficionados, this half-day Cowichan Valley Wine Tour takes you across three wineries — complete with tours and tastings! Offering round-trip transportation from Victoria’s downtown, this activity also includes a delicious lunch at a local boutique winery. 

Book a Cowichan Valley Wine Tour Here!

30. hatley castle.

Didn’t get enough of castles after Craigdarroch? If not, then head to Hatley Castle!

Built in 1908 for James Dunsmuir, Hatley Castle is a Edwardian stone mansion in Colwood that was designed to look just like a castle. The fancy castle stands at Hatley Park on the grounds of the Royal Roads University, overlooking the serene waters of Esquimalt Lagoon .

And if the place looks familiar to you, that’s because it was featured in several movies! Hatley Castle was in movies like Smallville, X-Men, Arrow, and even Deadpool! Cool, right?

Surrounded by beautifully manicured gardens, this National Historic Site is quite a beautiful spot to spend an afternoon. While the main castle grounds are free to explore, entry into the castle is only permitted on guided tours for a small fee.

While you’re in the area, make sure to explore the many walking trails that lead through the towering forest of Hatley Park. After, stop at the sandy beach of Esquimalt Lagoon , a migratory bird sanctuary known for its shallow lagoon, birdwatching opportunities, sandy beach , and driftwood sculptures.

31. Kayaking & Stand-Up Paddleboarding

Are you into watersports? If so, we’ve got some good news for you! Victoria just so happens to have some amazing kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) opportunities.

Whether you’re into kayaking, paddleboarding, or are just trying these sports for the first time, Victoria has something for you! Best of all, you don’t need your own gear to try these sports.

If you have your own kayak or paddleboard, that’s great! If you don’t, there are plenty of places to rent gear in the city or take a lesson, if it’s your first time.

For beginner paddleboarders, try this SUP lesson which takes you onto the beautiful Thetis Lake — our favorite lake in all of Victoria! During this beginner-friendly activity, you’ll learn basic paddleboarding techniques while exploring the spectacular waters of Lower and Upper Thetis Lake. It’s a blast!

Prefer kayaking? Check out this 3-hour Victoria Harbour Kayak Tour . Paddle around the downtown waters, getting to see landmarks like the Fairmont Empress and BC Parliament Buildings from a different perspective. Your guide will safely navigate you through the harbour’s marine traffic, while providing insight on the historic sights along the way.

Have your own gear? Here’s a list of the best SUP spots in Victoria (these are also great for kayakers)!

Book a Thetis Lake SUP Lesson Here!

Book a victoria harbour kayak tour here, 32. dallas road waterfront & the breakwater.

Some of Victoria’s most beautiful coastline is found along Dallas Road. If you spend an afternoon here, you’ll be sure to agree!

Dallas Road follows along the southern edge of Victoria. The waterfront walkway along the street features incredible coastal views and the distant Olympic Mountains over the Strait of Juan de Fuca.

Walking or jogging the Dallas Road Waterfront Trail is the best way to enjoy the ocean vistas. This 4-km long trail stretches from Fisherman’s Wharf all the way to the Ross Bay Cemetery. Accessible and dog-friendly, the path is super walkable with no real elevation but features some really spectacular views!

Along the way, you’ll pass by all kinds of beautiful coastal parks, including the massive Beacon Hill Park (look for the tallest free-standing totem pole near Camas Circle), Holland Point Park, and Clover Point.

There are stairs near Cook Street that’ll take you down to the rocky Spiral Beach below Dallas Road, one of the most beautiful beaches in Victoria . Further down the road, you can also visit Ross Bay Beach near the cemetery.

For some of the best views, stroll over to the the Breakwater , a 762-meter long ocean walkway extending off Dallas Road. It has a cute lighthouse at the end and is great for watching boats go by and looking for seals!

33. Sooke Potholes Regional Park

Sooke Potholes Regional Park is among our top favorite swimming spots in Victoria. If you’re visiting Victoria in summer, swimming in the potholes is one of the best things to do!

The Sooke Potholes are a series of natural swimming pools along the Sooke River, about 45-minutes outside of Victoria. Carved into the rock by the cascading waters of the Sooke River, the potholes make for great swimming spots. Some thrill-seeking people even cliff jump here!

While the Sooke Potholes aren’t as chilly as the Pacific Ocean, we do find the river is colder than lakes like Thetis. On a hot day, you get used to the water though!

The main beaches along the river include Crescent (the most popular), Sand Pebble, Skipping Rock, Ripple Rock, and Hideaway Beaches. You’ll find people spread out all along the river, though.

Swimming isn’t the only thing to do here though. The riverside rocks are great for sunbathing, the shallows are great for wading, and you can walk the trail all along the Sooke River!

The park also borders the Sea to Sea Regional Park, which is great for hiking. Mary Vine Creek Waterfall is quite beautiful after a good rain and if you go just a bit further, Peden Lake is also quite scenic.

On a hot summer’s day, make sure to arrive at the Sooke Potholes Regional Park early. The parking lot gets quite busy! Parking is paid but if you get a season’s pass, it covers parking at both the Sooke Potholes and Thetis Lake Regional Parks.

34. Craft Breweries

Visiting one (or more) of the amazing craft breweries around Victoria is one of the best things to do in the city for beer lovers. There’s nothing better than tasting some of the local brews while enjoying the sun on an outdoor patio!

Home to the first brewpub in Canada, Victoria is a city with a rich brewing history and thriving craft beer scene. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to sample some of the best beer that Vancouver Island has to offer.

From small-batch sours flavored with locally-grown fruits to West Coast-inspired IPA beers, there’s a beer to suit every taste. Sometimes the breweries even feature more unique brews, like kelp beer!

If you’re visiting at the right time, Victoria also has a couple of craft beer-focused festivals, including the Great Canadian Beer Festival and Victoria Beer Week . These events gather people from all over to celebrate the city’s craft beer culture.

35. The Gorge Waterway

The Gorge Waterway (known as the Gorge by locals) is the beautiful tidal inlet that starts at the Selkirk Trestle in the Victoria Harbour and extends north all the way to Portage Inlet.

This is a must-see destination for travelers looking for the best things to do in Victoria and it won’t take you long to understand why either! The Gorge is quite beautiful and peaceful.

Much of the Gorge can be enjoyed on foot. We usually like to start our walk at Saanich Gorge Park and then heading to Tillicum Bridge to see the Reversing Falls rapids.

After, we either continue onward along the Gorge Waterway Park Path to Craigflower-Kosapsom Park. Or, you can cross Tillicum Bridge to walk to Esquimalt Gorge Park, where you’ll find a peaceful Japanese garden!

While walking is an option, the best way to explore the Gorge is by stand-up paddleboard or kayak. You’ll be able to see much more of the waterway, especially Portage Inlet!

36. Galloping Goose and Lochside Trails

Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or just looking for a leisurely ride, the Galloping Goose and Lochside Trails are two of the best ways to explore the beauty of Victoria by bike.

These trails shouldn’t be missed! Both are mostly flat, paved, and accessible for bikers of all levels. The trails are multi-use so they’re also great for walking and running.

The Galloping Goose is a 55-kilometer trail stretching from Victoria all the way to Sooke. The trail offers stunning views of the city, with beautiful murals (some goose-themed ones!) along the way. The trail passes must-see spots like the Selkirk Trestle across the Gorge Waterway, Thetis Lake, Hatley Castle, and Sooke Potholes.

The Lochside Trail connects to the Galloping Goose at Switch Bridge and is a 29-kilometer north-south trail on the Saanich Peninsula. It runs from downtown Victoria to Swartz Bay, winding through rural landscapes along the way. Points of interest along the way include Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary, Mount Douglas Park, and the town of Sidney.

Don’t want to venture out on your own? Try this guided Castles and Neighborhoods Bike Tour . While it doesn’t take you on the Lochside or Galloping Goose Regional Trails, this bike tour will take you past some other landmarks around the city, like Craigdarroch Castle and Cook Street Village.

Book the Castles and Neighborhoods Bike Tour Here!

Top travel tips & resources for victoria, bc.

• Travel Insurance – If you’re travelling internationally, travel insurance is a must for any trip. Being covered by insurance is especially important when you’re going to an adventure-filled place like British Columbia. If you injure yourself while adventuring, you want to have insurance! We recommend using SafetyWing for international travel insurance. They are affordable and have great policies for travellers, digital nomads, and remote workers. Also, SafetyWing provides COVID-19 coverage, which many other insurance companies don’t cover.
• Car Rental – We find the best deal on vehicle rental prices using RentalCars.com . They compare the prices for different car rental companies so you can find the best deals out there!
• Accommodations – We prefer booking all of our hotels, hostels, and other accommodations through Booking.com because they have a flexible cancellation policy. Also, there are lots of different options on their platform, from hotels to vacation homes. Alternatively, Expedia and Hotels.com are good for booking accommodations. For vacation home rentals, VRBO is an excellent choice (they have lower fees than Airbnb, many of the same properties, and are more ethical).
• Flights – You’ll find many good flight deals on Skyscanner or Google Flights. You can book flights through these websites and they’ll help you find the best prices and flight times. If you fly at less popular times (e.g. mid-week or red-eye flights), you can also save some money.
• Tours – Get the most out of your vacation by taking a guided tour! This is a great way to see the city, adventure to exciting new locations, and learn about the local culture. Viator or GetYourGuide are great options for booking tours.

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Hey, I'm Nicole! I've travelled all over the world but my favorite place is British Columbia. I've lived in Victoria, BC since 2019 and spend most of my free time travelling around BC. My goal is to explore as much of this beautiful province as possible. Along the way I'll be sharing travel tips with you!

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14 Most Beautiful Small Towns In Victoria, Australia

• Victoria, Australia is home to some of the most beautiful small towns in the world, offering quaint shops, cafés, and historic architecture.
• Bright, Maldon, and Healesville are just a few examples of the breathtaking towns in Victoria that cater to all traveler preferences.
• From scenic hiking and biking trails to wine tasting and wildlife reserves, these towns offer a range of activities for visitors to enjoy their unforgettable vacation.

Victoria, Australia, easily boasts some of the most beautiful small towns in the world. These charming Victoria towns feature quaint shops, cafés, and historic buildings that provide a glimpse into the state's rich cultural heritage. Whether visitors prefer coastal towns with stunning ocean views or mountain hamlets nestled in the hills, Victoria caters to every traveler's preferences, and some of them might even rival the world's best summer destinations .

This article will delve into the most beautiful small towns Victoria, Australia, has in store for visitors, showcasing the state's enchanting and charming locales. Prepare to fall in love with Victoria's hidden gems; it's time to explore its most breathtaking towns.

UPDATE: 2023/10/02 23:47 EST BY REENA JAIN

More Of The Most Beautiful Small Towns In Victoria, Australia

Small Victorian towns are ideal for weekend getaways or scenic road trips with loved ones. And they are in numbers for travelers looking for some amazing experiences. So, we have updated this list with four more of the prettiest towns in Victoria, so don't wait; choose one or more and plan a memorable vacation.

Bright is known for its scenic hiking and biking trails as well as the serene Ovens River and Centenary Park, making it one of the best small towns in Victoria. Although the town is beautiful all year, the fall foliage elevates its splendor to new heights, and the winters transform it into a hub for snow activities and a gateway to the Alpine Region. The town's food and drink scene is another plus factor that will delight even the most discerning travelers. Visitors can enjoy exquisite wine and good times at any number of breweries and distilleries, including Bright Brewery , Billy Button Wines cellar door, and Reed & Co. Distillery.

• Highlights : Bright Autumn Festival, Mount Buffalo National Park, Ovens River and Canyon Walk, Alpine Village Atmosphere

Maldon is the ideal location for anyone who wants to get a glimpse of Victoria during the 1850s gold rush. The village has maintained its old-world beauty with its ancient weatherboard residences, stone structures, and traditional storefronts. Visiting the town is like stepping back in time. Visitors can visit the Central Deborah Gold Mine, enjoy a scenic ride on the Victorian Goldfields Railway , witness the beautiful surroundings of Mount Tarrengower, or attend vibrant events like the Maldon Antique Fair. Above all, this town is also an excellent antique shopping destination in Victoria.

• Highlights : Maldon Historic Reserve, Beehive Mine, Maldon Vintage Machinery Museum, Mount Tarrengower Lookout

Healesville

One of the best country towns in Victoria, Healesville entices visitors for its nature walks, delicious food, wildlife reserves, and wineries. The main street, lined with cafés, pubs, and boutique shops, is bustling all through the week. The town, however, comes alive on weekends with a multitude of visitors. There is so much to see and do in this small town, like riding the historic Yarra Valley Railway, going on gorgeous nature walks, touring the TarraWarra Museum of Art, and, of course, sampling wine at some of the most prestigious wineries in the world. Another big highlight is the Healesville Sanctuary , a wildlife reserve and a popular tourist destination in Victoria.

• Highlights : Healesville Sanctuary, Yarra Valley Wine Region, Maroondah Reservoir Park, TarraWarra Museum of Art

Sassafras is a must-visit town in Victoria to experience laid-back vibes and stunning vistas of the Dandenong Ranges. There are many specialty shops and boutiques to explore, but one of the main draws is Miss Marple's Tearoom , inspired by famous author Agatha Christie. The town is close to Alfred Nicholson Gardens, Sherbrooke Falls, and the Dandenong Ranges Botanic Garden, so visitors will have plenty to explore and experience. Additionally, the Dandenong Ranges offer a variety of fun activities that can certainly make a trip full of priceless memories.

• Highlights : Miss Marple's Tearoom, Sherbrooke Forest, Alfred Nicholas Memorial Gardens, Sassafras Creek Nature Trail

Situated in the foothills of the Great Dividing Range, about 90 minutes northwest of Melbourne in Victoria, Australia, Daylesford is among the best towns to visit in Victoria, famous for its natural mineral springs and spa culture, drawing in many visitors seeking wellness and relaxation.

The town's fascinating history goes back to the 1850s when gold was discovered in the area. Several of the historical buildings from that period remain to this day and can be viewed during a walking tour of the town. Furthermore, travelers can browse through the local art galleries, antique stores, and specialty shops. Plus, visiting this beautiful town might be one of the best things to do in Australia for wellness buffs, thanks to its natural mineral springs and spa culture.

• Highlights : natural mineral springs and spa culture

Castlemaine

Nestled in the heart of Victoria, Australia, approximately 120 km northwest of Melbourne, lies the delightful small town of Castlemaine. Surrounded by verdant forests and rolling hills, it is a haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike, with the scenic Campaspe River flowing through it.

Castlemaine has a rich history that dates back to the 1850s when gold was discovered in the region, and visitors can take a leisurely walk around town to see numerous historic buildings and landmarks. The town is home to many attractions, including the Castlemaine Art Museum, which houses a remarkable collection of Australian art, and the Buda Historic Home and Garden, which offers visitors a glimpse into the life of a 19th-century gold rush family. Given its old-world buildings, Castlemaine is definitely one of the most beautiful small towns in Australia .

• Highlights: verdant forests and rolling hills, Castlemaine Art Museum

Located in the scenic Macedon Ranges of Victoria, Australia, Kyneton is among the most beautiful towns in Victoria and is situated about an hour's drive northwest of Melbourne. With its delightful blend of historic architecture, gourmet food scene, and charming boutiques, Kyneton is a popular destination for visitors seeking a laid-back and authentic rural experience.

Dating back to the 1850s, Kyneton has a rich gold rush history, and many of its historic buildings have been beautifully preserved to this day. A walking tour of the town allows visitors to see some of these stunning structures, including the Kyneton Post Office, the Bank of New South Wales, and the Mechanics Institute. Staying at Kyneton might not be as extraordinary as staying at Australia's first underwater hotel , but it is definitely a charming option!

• Highlights : historic architecture, gourmet food scene, and charming boutiques

Located in the Central Highlands region of Victoria, Ballarat is a city steeped in history that played a key role in the state's gold rush era in the 1850s. It is one of the largest inland cities in Victoria, about 115 km northwest of Melbourne, but still appears to maintain a charming, small-town feel. Today, Ballarat is a bustling and thriving city with a diverse economy and a rich cultural scene.

Visitors can experience the city's history at attractions such as Sovereign Hill, an open-air museum that recreates a gold rush town, and the Ballarat Botanical Gardens, which boast beautiful Victorian-era gardens and a lake. The city also offers a variety of galleries, museums, and art spaces, as well as a vibrant food and wine scene.

• Highlights: Sovereign Hill, an open-air museum

Beechworth is one of Victoria's most beautiful small towns situated in the northeastern region of the state, approximately 270 km northeast of Melbourne. It lies in the foothills of the Australian Alps and is renowned for its well-maintained historic structures, gold rush past, and natural beauty. Since it's one of the most beautiful towns Victoria has to offer nature lovers, roaming around the mountains of Beechworth is right up there with the most beautiful hikes in Australia.

The town was established during the 1850s gold rush, and numerous historic buildings from this era have been impeccably conserved. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll through the town and witness these edifices, including the Beechworth Courthouse, the Telegraph Station, and the Powder Magazine.

• Highlights: many historic buildings, access to gorgeous hiking trails in the mountains

Related: Down South: 10 Most Beautiful Towns In Southern Australia

Rutherglen, situated in the northeastern region of Victoria, Australia, about 275 km northeast of Melbourne, is a scenic small town located in the heart of the Rutherglen wine region, renowned for producing some of Australia's top fortified wines. The town boasts a rich history that dates back to the gold rush period in the 1850s, and several historic buildings have been carefully preserved.

A stroll through the Rutherglen Historical Walk is a must for visitors, as it covers several heritage-listed buildings, including the Old Police Station, the Court House, and the Memorial Hall. Rutherglen is definitely one of the insta-worthy places in Australia due to its gorgeous historic buildings.

• Highlights: produces some of Australia's top wines

Related: 10 Most Beautiful Mountain Towns Around The World You Need To Visit

Located in the Yarra Valley region of Victoria, approximately 75 km east of Melbourne, Warburton is a charming small town situated on the banks of the Yarra River. It is surrounded by lush forests and scenic mountains, attracting many outdoor enthusiasts.

With a history dating back to the gold rush era in the 1860s, Warburton boasts many well-preserved historic buildings that can be explored on a walking tour. Among these buildings is the Warburton Waterwheel, which was used to power a sawmill in the early days of settlement.

• Highlights: lush forests and scenic mountains, well-preserved historic buildings

Clunes is one of the most scenic small towns in Victoria, Australia, nestled in the Central Highlands region, which is about 140 km northwest of Melbourne. It is located on the slopes of Mount Beckworth, an extinct volcano, and is renowned for its historical architecture, gold rush legacy, and literary culture.

During the gold rush in the 1850s, Clunes was one of the wealthiest goldfields in Victoria. Many of its historic buildings from this time period have been meticulously preserved and are available for viewing on a walking tour. The town is also famous for the Clunes Booktown Festival, an annual event that draws book enthusiasts from across the country. This festival includes author talks, book launches, and a large book market.

• Highlights: historical architecture, the Clunes Booktown Festival

Situated in a narrow valley in the Victorian Alps, Walhalla is a small town located in the Baw Baw region of Victoria, Australia, around 180 km east of Melbourne. It is renowned for its stunning scenery and its rich history, which dates back to the gold rush in the 1860s when it was one of the most prosperous gold mining areas in the state.

Tourists can relive the town's gold mining past by visiting notable landmarks such as the Long Tunnel Extended Gold Mine and the Walhalla Goldfields Railway.

• Highlights : stunning scenery and rich history

Related: Rural & Remote: 10 Most Beautiful Towns In Western Australia

Lakes Entrance

Lakes Entrance is one of the most beautiful coastal towns in Victoria, Australia. It's located at the eastern end of the Gippsland Lakes system in eastern Victoria, situated about 320 kilometers east of Melbourne along the Princes Highway. It is a well-known tourist destination, celebrated for its picturesque landscapes, stunning beaches, and a range of water-based activities like fishing, boating, and swimming.

Visitors can enjoy water sports and fishing in the vast expanse of the Gippsland Lakes, with Lakes Entrance being a favored spot for both. Additionally, the town is encircled by a number of national parks, such as Croajingolong National Park and Lakes National Park, which offer a variety of hiking trails and opportunities to view wildlife.

• Highlights : picturesque landscapes, stunning beaches, and a range of water-based activities

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Victorian businesses shine at the 2023 Australian Tourism Awards

Published: 5 April 2024

Victoria and its iconic tourism sector showed Australia what it's made of at the Qantas Australian Tourism Awards. Held in Darwin this year, Victoria received 2 gold, 3 silver and 7 bronze awards for 2023.

The success shows why the Victorian accommodation sector contributed $3.3 billion in total revenue last year.

• The Woods Ocean Grove - Self Contained Accommodation
• Urban Camp Melbourne - 3-3.5 Star Accommodation category
• Tesselaar KaBloom - Major Festivals and Events
• Chocolate Gannets - 5-Star Luxury Accommodation
• Accessible Accommodation - Excellence in Accessible Tourism
• Zoos Victoria, Melbourne Zoo - Major Tourist Attractions
• Geelong Gallery - Cultural Tourism
• Go Adventure Nagambie - Tourism Retail, Hire and Services
• Searoad Ferries - Major Tour and Transport Operators
• Billson’s Brewery - Tourism Wineries, Distilleries and Breweries
• NRMA Phillip Island Beachfront Holiday Park - Caravan and Holiday Parks
• Kangaroo Ridge Retreat - Hosted Accommodation

Gold winner: Stephanie King from The Woods Ocean Grove

CEO of the Victorian Tourism Industry Council, Felicia Mariani said ‘It's wonderful to witness 12 out of the 26 winners from our Victorian Tourism Awards achieving gold, silver, and bronze status in this prestigious recognition of the best across Australia.’

‘This accomplishment stands as a testament to the unwavering commitment and passion demonstrated within Victoria. We take immense pride in all our entrants who participated in this fiercely competitive process.’ she said.

Data shows that for the year ending September 2023, tourism in Victoria generated $36.9 billion in total spend. During this time, Victoria also had 90.3 million total visitors.

Congratulations to all the Victorian winners for helping to make the state a tourism destination of choice.

To view all finalists in each category, visit Quality Tourism Australia .

We acknowledge the Aboriginal Traditional Owners of Country throughout Victoria, their ongoing connection to this land and we pay our respects to their culture and their Elders past, present and future.

© 2023 Department of Jobs, Skills, Industry and Regions

This page was printed at:  

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Elderly American tourist killed in elephant attack while on safari in Zambia

The tourist died after the attack at Kafue National Park.

An elderly American tourist was killed after an "aggressive" bull elephant attacked a vehicle during a game drive in Zambia, the safari operator said.

The incident took place Saturday morning at Kafue National Park, a Lusaka Police spokesperson confirmed to ABC News. Gail Mattson, 79, was confirmed by the family as the victim.

"An aggressive bull elephant charged the vehicle carrying six guests and a guide who were on a game drive from Lufupa Camp," Wilderness, the company operating the safari, said in a statement to ABC News Wednesday.

MORE: Import of live African elephants and hunting trophies restricted in the US

Four other people received treatment for minor injuries after the incident, the company said.

"The six guests were on the game drive when the vehicle was unexpectedly charged by the bull elephant," Keith Vincent, Wilderness' chief executive officer, said in the statement, adding, that the safari guide's vehicle was "blocked" by the terrain at the time of the attack.

"Our guides are all extremely well trained and experienced, but sadly in this instance the terrain and vegetation was such that the guide's route became blocked and he could not move the vehicle out of harm's way quickly enough," Vincent said.

Following the attack, Kafue National Park management was immediately called to assist and a helicopter was dispatched to the scene, according to Vincent. Local police, Zambia's Department of National Parks & Wildlife and other authorities are involved in the investigation, he said.

MORE: Global warming could increase risk of human-elephant conflict, researchers say

Wilderness is cooperating with the investigation, Vincent said.

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"This is a tragic event and we extend our deepest condolences to the family of the guest who died," he said in the statement. "We are also, naturally, supporting those guests and the guide involved in this distressing incident."

The elderly woman's remains will be repatriated to her family in the U.S. with support from local Zambian authorities and the U.S. Embassy in Lusaka, according to the statement.

MORE: Videos show terrifying moment bull elephant lifts safari truck

Last month, a similar bull elephant attack took place in Pilanesberg National Park, South Africa.

Videos of the March 18 incident show a bull elephant lifting a 22-seat safari truck up several times with his trunk before letting it drop. There were no deaths reported in that incident.

Hendry Blom, a bystander who caught the incident on camera, told ABC News, "We were definitely scared, especially for the people in the truck because we thought they might die."

ABC News' Victoria Beaule contributed to this report.

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British-born woman saw a Knead in Scituate. Find out what she opened to fill it

SCITUATE – A new bakery and bistro in Scituate has released the kraken, along with serpents, sirens, mermaids and minnows.

The mythology-inspired smoothie bowls are among the menu items available by owner, chef and award-winning baker and cake designer Victoria Donnelly at Knead Bakery and Bistro at 133 Front St. The renovated space is located at the former Harborside Nutrition.

Victoria Donnelly's bread cred

Food Network fans may recognize Donnelly and some of her sweeter offerings from her 2010 win on "Cupcake Wars" with her Blue Velvet cupcake and placing as a runner up on the network's "Sweet Genius" show.   

She has also left her mark on Boston and the South Shore's culinary scene.

In addition to being the former owner of Cakeology in Boston, Donnelly has been awarded Best Cupcake at the New England Dessert Showcase and named as both the Boston Globe's "Millennials to Watch" and Stars' "40 under 40 awards."    

Donnelly, a mother of two, is also a former member of Le Cordon Bleu Boston's Advisory Board.

Knead goes beyond breads and pastries

Knead, which opened last month, prepares everything from scratch and focuses on sourdough breads, breakfast pastries, party cakes and traditional patisserie (French pastries). The shop also offers salads, the aforementioned smoothie bowls and sandwiches, according to a press release announcing its opening. 

Knead serves open-faced sandwiches – or "tartines" – with Mediterranean-inspired toppings on a thick slice of homemade sourdough toast. Some staples include croque monsieur – a hot French sandwich made with ham and cheese – heirloom caprese and a spicy spinach Caesar tartine.

The eatery will also offer prepared foods for grab-and-go dinners and catering boards to include charcuterie , brunch, desserts and crudité with homemade dips and breads. Gluten-free options are available daily, as are custom orders.     

Partnerships include Hornstra Farms in Norwell

Knead is partnering with Rare Breed Coffee in New Hampshire to serve a full menu of organic espresso drinks and prepared meal delivery service Clandestine Kitchen to offer organic soups daily.

The company's menu includes dairy offerings from Hornstra Farms in Norwell.

Coming attractions: Tea times and more

A weekend "Bubbles and Brunch" is set to begin in the coming months. Baking and decorating classes will also be offered.    

Knead plans to offer online ordering soon.

The British-born Donnelly plans to include a touch of home by hosting ticketed British afternoon teas monthly as well as for holidays and special events. Private teas will also be an option for bridal or baby showers, birthdays and other special occasions.    

Knead Bakery and Bistro hours

Knead Bakery and Bistro is open from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday and is closed on Monday.  Visit Kneadkitchen.com for its menu and more information.