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Must Do Canada

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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TripView 4+

Sydney, melbourne, brisbane, tripview pty ltd, designed for ipad.

• #2 in Travel
• 4.8 • 188K Ratings

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Description.

TripView displays Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane public transport timetable data on your phone. It features a summary view showing your next services, as well as a full timetable viewer. All timetable data is stored on your phone, so it can be used offline. Features: - View times for any saved trip with a single tap - Real-time delay information and vehicle map (subject to data availability) - Trackwork and service interruption information - Interactive maps (create your trip by clicking on your station/stop) - Alarms (arrival/departure, time/distance) - Multi-modal trip editor (customise exact change locations / lines) - View your favourite trips on Apple Watch NOTE: Best efforts are taken to ensure timetable accuracy, but no guarantees are made. If you find an error in the timetable, please email [email protected] with details. No guarantees are made about real-time data availability. If the transit operator doesn't provide real-time data for a particular service, TripView will revert to showing the scheduled time, as per the timetable. Alarms require iOS4 and a device that is capable of multitasking. Note: Continued use of GPS running in the background can dramatically decrease battery life.

Version 6.0.1

- Use real-time vehicle description to override the real-time set type for Sydney Trains - Fixed crash when creating a trip from a stop that has no valid destinations - Fixed bug where 'Cancelled' text was truncated in some circumstances - Fixed bug where real-time data was sometimes unavailable after viewing a trip, minimising the app, and then reopening it the following day

Ratings and Reviews

188K Ratings

New version has an awful bug

Regretting updating to the latest version - previously this was so reliable and showed each bus as it passed my stop, with an indicator of whether it was late or early. Now it's showing them in my trip list as the time they're SCHEDULED to hit my stop, but without indicating whether they have or not - meaning that I have to click into that bus to see where it's tracking in real time. As Sydney buses are notoriously unreliable, you can see where this is headed. Of the five buses "next in line" on my timetable, four have actually already passed and are three stops up the road. Makes using the app very frustrating, and I would love if it reverted to the previous style, when real time tracking determined the order in which buses appeared. (Formerly I would have given this five stars, it's actually the one app I recommend to everyone, as it's been indispensable these past 4 years. This new "functionality", if that's what it is, has turned what I considered an exceptional app into a very average one, no better than the fixed timetables at each stop; basically, I'm turning up and hoping for the best.)

Developer Response ,

Thanks for the feedback. We haven't made any changes in this area, and haven't been able to reproduce this problem. Perhaps it's a data issue specific to your stop. If you can provide more details (e.g. some screenshots showing the problem) we can certainly take a look.

First place I go to to check transport options

SO helpful! Keeps you updated re arrival & departure times. Makes checking transport options much easier as it’s all available in one app. Hav recommended to visitors and locals alike. Love it! My go to app when planning a trip on public transport. Have also recommended this app to travellers to help them get around Sydney. Regular updates keep u well informed. And u can follow yr trip route on a map-helpful in so many ways. A must have app for everyone. One of my favourites! Well done🥇 One app I wouldn’t be without! Hav also recommended this app as a must have to friends and travellers to Sydney. Agree with the above comments: keeps u well updated, informed and makes getting around on public transport SO much easier. Congrats to whoever designed this app-it is so USER FRIENDLY! One of my favourites-“🎶u r simply the best🎶”

Very poor Apple Watch implementation

I was at first very excited to see this app worked on Apple Watch because it’s very useful for monitoring my trips. However as soon as i tried to use it I realised the Watch implementation was just tacked on without thought and it made me wonder whether the devs even have a clue about how people use the app. It’s virtually useless for Apple Watch the reason is: Once a time is past you can no longer look at that route. So if you get on service at say 5pm and then want to check the arrival time at stops along the way whilst travelling … believe it or not … you can’t!!!! This is particularly bad when your trip combines multiple services because YOU ARE UNABLE TO CHECK THE ARRIVAL OF YOUR SERVICE AT THE INTERCHANGE OR THE LATEST TIMES OF THE CONNECTING SERVICE !!!!!!!!!!!!!! That is a major major FAIL !!!! Ok following the reply from Dev. I would say ok I understand. I don’t agree. But definitely you need to look at the trips that utilise multiple services because not being able to see arrival and departure time at the midway service interchange of the trip you’re on doesn’t seem to satisfy you stated main objectives.

Hi Wil, thanks for your review. We did put a lot of thought into the watch implementation, but there are limits to what we can do on the watch, and it's not intended to be a replacement for the full phone app. The watch app was mainly designed to handle the common case of checking the departure times for your next few services with minimal interaction. Selecting a connecting service on the watch would be pretty cumbersome. If possible, we would recommend just adding a second trip with the second segment. This should work quite well on the watch. If you have the "Sort Trips by Distance" option enabled, the watch app will show you times for you the second part of your trip automatically when you approach your interchange stop.

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The Ultimate Travel Guide to Victoria

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The salty seaboard, lively harbour, and array of hiking and biking routes and trails etched along the shoreline, and surrounding mountainous region makes Victoria the ultimate Canadian island-getaway destination for families, outdoor lovers, and anyone and everyone. In this ultimate guide for planning a trip to Victoria, you’ll learn all about British Columbia’s capital city: how to get there, what to do, and the necessary information before you kickstart your exciting adventure.

Take a moment to think of England, Holland, and tropical island getaways. Got it? Okay, now blend these three images together and add a sprinkle of Canadian vibes. What do you get? Victoria. You’ll find a glimpse of Holland via the avid road cyclists twisting through the English-styled architecture. And when you head to the harbour or walk along the sea-scented shoreline, the laid-back, chilled-out island atmosphere will remind you of a tropical island. But gusts of cold air will highlight that you’re still in Canada (and the occasional “eh”).

Outside of the architecture, gardens, and cultural influences and nods, you’ll find an array of activities suitable for all types of adventurers, personalities, and age groups. Opt to go on hiking, biking, kayaking, paddleboarding adventures, and top off your outdoor experiences with a cold craft beer at one of the many trendy restaurants peppering downtown.

If you’re looking to immerse in nature totally, you can easily go on day trips to the surrounding parks: Gowlland Tod Provincial Park, East Sooke Park, Goldstream Provincial Park, Mount Work Regional Park, and more. But keep in mind that nature cloaks the city, so even when you’re away from these parks, you’ll still experience the soothing calmness that often accompanies being outdoors—with a quaint, welcoming city twist. Victoria has around 70 parks!

Ready to plan your trip to Victoria? Continue reading for tips on how to get there, what to do, where to eat and stay!

Marina at Victoria British Columbia Canada

Victoria sits along the southern side of Vancouver Island, but it’s still relatively easy to access the city despite its island location. If you’re driving, you’ll have to hop on a ferry, but the ocean views will keep you entertained as you travel across the Pacific Ocean. It’s super windy on the deck, but makes for some good photos. Or you can fly into Victoria International Airport, which sits around 25 minutes outside of the city.

Flying to Victoria

If you’re flying to Victoria, it’s best to book a flight that takes you right to Victoria International Airport. Hopping off a plane in Vancouver will force you to either rent a car and travel by ferry to the island or purchase a walk-on ticket for the boat ride over.

There are a few options to take once you reach the airport:

• Walk 2.0 km towards East Saanich at McTavish, where you’ll take the Line 72 bus. This bus costs $3 and takes around 35 minutes to reach Douglas at Hillside in Victoria. You can also walk 2.1 km towards McTavish Exchange Bay G, where you can hop on Line 70, 71, or 72 bus for $3. It will take around 35 minutes to reach Douglas at Finlayson in Victoria.
• You can also drive or take a taxi. The 26.0 km drive can take around 25 minutes.

You can also take a floatplane from Vancouver Harbour to Victoria Harbour.

Ferry to Victoria

Whether you’re driving, walking, cycling, motorbiking, or taking public transport, you’ll need to take a ferry to get to Victoria.

One option is—depending on where you are coming from—to take the ferry from Horseshoe Bay and get off in Nanaimo, another island town. It takes around 1.5 hours to drive from Nanaimo to Victoria. You can also take the IslandLink Bus or the Vancouver Island Connector . It’ll take you two hours to reach Victoria via public transport.

If you’re leaving from Vancouver, you can ferry from Tsawwassen. This trip takes around 1.5 hours. Feel free to check out the schedule on BC Ferries !

Are you coming from Seattle? No problem. Take the ferry from Port Angeles.

Public transport to Victoria

You can also hop on a bus for your ferry trip from Vancouver to Victoria. You can use the BC Ferries Connector to get from downtown Vancouver to downtown Victoria, and back!

Warm weather seekers will enjoy the temperatures between June and September. However, tourist avoiders who don’t mind a temperature drop will likely tolerate the weather in May and October. The trails will be less crowded during these months as well!

While snow cloaks most of Canada during the winter, Victoria instead receives buckets and buckets of rain, so you probably won’t enjoy visiting between November and March, unless you really love rain.

From cars to public transportation to walking to cycling to horse carriage rides, Victoria makes it easy for you to choose a mode of transportation that suits you or your desired activities. But if you were to choose anything, just know that the city boasts of excellent cycling opportunities as well, and it’s incredibly walkable.

Hiker looking at rugged shores near Victoria BC

Are you looking for the best spots to stay in Victoria? Take a look at these neighbourhoods: James Bay (waterfront location), Oak Bay (trendy), and downtown (hello, nightlife).

Hotels in James Bay

Enjoy the coastline views and taste the smell of fish and chips smell swirling off the nearby seafood restaurants as you meander the Fisherman’s Wharf. If you’re looking for an elegant option, you may consider booking The Hotel Grand Pacific or The Oswego Hotel . Budgeters will appreciate the quaint, cozy James Bay Inn !

Hotels in Oak Bay

Lined with soaring oak trees, trendy boutiques, delis, and cafes, Oak Bay knows how to please its visitors. To top it off, the nearby Willows Beach grants kayakers and paddle boarders with a relaxing paddle. Those willing to amp up the swank will like the waterfront views at Oak Bay Beach Hotel . The Oak Bay Guest House Bed and Breakfast also offers a slice of upscale, a sprinkle of relaxation, and a lot of character.

Hotels downtown

Revel in the nightlife spanning Wharf Street and Bastion Square by night, and explore the museums, galleries, and bask in the harbour views by day. Rest your head at the ever-so classy Magnolia Hotel and Spa or start your evening of fun on the rooftop at the Strathcona Hotel—this building harks back to the gold rush era in Victoria. Or you can enjoy a budget-friendly stay at HI Hostel .

Other great options to stay in Victoria

Not into staying in a hotel? Why not consider camping? The following campgrounds may be a little outside Victoria, but that doesn’t mean you can’t wander into the city on a non-adventure day.

Consider setting up your tent at Goldstream Provincial Park. And be sure to go on the short, but fascinating Goldstream Trestle Hike while you’re here.

Or you can try the Spring Salmon Places Campground in Sooke Potholes Regional Park. Admire the fairytale-like waterfalls here! These wild campsites run on a first-come, first-serve basis only.

Looking for a beachfront spot? Look into the Island View Beach Regional Park Campground. It’s not super private, but hey, at least you’ll fall asleep to the bliss of ocean waves flirting with the shore.

Beautiful architecture seen at Victoria British Columbia

Victoria boasts of a smorgasbord of trendy cafes and bakeries. But since there are many options, we’ve decided to share some of the best spots for you to help alleviate the stress that often accompanies food-related decisions:

Best seafood spot: Finn’s or The Fish Store at Fisherman’s Wharf . Expect Finn’s to take seafood to the next level. You can also go for quick, tasty bites at the floating Fish Store at Fisherman’s Wharf.

Best cafe: Blue Fox Cafe . Beware! If you eat here in the morning, you won’t want to eat for the rest of the day: the portions are big. It could be an excellent breakfast or lunch spot before an adventure day.

Best bakery: La Roux Patisserie . Feel like you’re in Paris in this elegant, cozy bakery! Consider stopping by here for a tasty treat after a hiking or biking or kayaking excursion.

Best restaurant: John’s Place Restaurant . Grab a hearty breakfast or lunch at this local hotspot! Try to stop by during Happy Hour, which is between 2-5 from Monday to Friday.

Outdoor lovers will appreciate the natural playground in and around Victoria. Spend hours hiking, cycling, mountain biking, kayaking, or paddleboarding. Outside of active ventures, you’ll also find other remarkable options that abide by Victoria’s quirky, chilled-out vibes.

Hiking in Victoria

Expect to find a myriad of hikes surrounding Victoria . You may not associate British Columbia’s capital with hiking, thanks to its prime oceanfront location, but the mountainscapes painting the backdrop have several unique trails. While most hikes in Victoria are on the shorter side, they do not cheap out on views.

For the best hikes, locals and visitors alike tend to flock to Gowlland Tod Provincial Park, East Sooke Park, Goldstream Provincial Park, and Mount Work Regional Park. Families will enjoy the mild elevation and gentle trail along the Witty’s Lagoon with Tower Point Hike . If you’re looking for a long, challenging hike with stunning views, try out the East Sooke Coast Trail Hike . Or enjoy a picturesque blend of mountain and water views on the 10 km Jocelyn Hill from Caleb Pike Hike .

Cycling in Victoria

Victoria really is a biker’s paradise. With a network of easy to moderate loops twisting along and by the seascape, waterways, vineyards, parks, and more. Get ready for a picturesque ride, no matter which route you decide to take. One of our favourites? The Seaside Loop. This lovely 40.8 km ride takes you by harbours, parks, and cafes.

Families will really enjoy the 10.3 km Colquitz River Trail bike ride! Pedal by the Panama Flats and end your journey at the Red Barn Market. For a more challenging excursion, give the 62.0 km , out-and-back Lochside Trail to Sidney a try. Pedal by lush farmland and quiet inlets before returning to Victoria.

Mountain bikers can find fantastic trails in Bear Mountain Resort or Mount Work Regional Park.

Turquose water and rugged shores at Victoria BC

Water sports in Victoria

Spend relaxing mornings, afternoons, or evenings paddle boarding or kayaking around Victoria. Grab your paddles and meander around the following spots:

• Thetis Lake
• Gorge Waterway
• Esquimalt Lagoon
• Langford Lake
• Matheson Lake
• Inner Harbour
• Gonzales Beach
• Willows Beach
• Cadboro Bay

Other can’t-miss activities in Victoria

Victoria has several quirky activities worth taking advantage of! Whether you’re looking for something chill or fascinating or nature-centric, British Columbia’s capital has you covered.

• Visit Butchart Gardens! Revel in the palette of colours and lush fields of green as you wind through this stunning garden.
• Go to Miniature World! Marvel at the miniature depictions of historical moments and fictional realms. This museum is also home to the world’s largest dollhouses and model railways.
• Check out Hatley Park National Historic Site! Let’s face it: Canada boasts of natural beauty, but it lacks architectural wonders. This castle is one of the most stunning pieces of architecture in Canada! You can also get your steps in by strolling around the gardens surrounding this monumental building.
• Shop along Lower Johnson Street! Enjoy the number of independent shops and boutiques lining this vibrant street.
• Go on a carriage tour! Bask in luxury (and relaxation) in a horse-drawn carriage. Enjoy the layers of attractions spanning Victoria.
• Walk around Fisherman’s Wharf! Check out the 33 floating houses dotting this postcard-painted harbour. Whenever you get hungry, stop by one of the seafood restaurants in this area.
• Stroll through Chinatown! Quick fact: Victoria’s Chinatown is the second oldest in North America and the oldest in Canada.
• Hop on a pickle boat! Embark on a sightseeing tour via a boat shaped like a pickle.
• Relax at the beach! Want a break from all of your adventures? Spend some time relaxing at Willow Beach, but don’t expect to swim. The water is super cold; if you want warmer water, head to Thetis Lake.
• Go whale watching! Most whale watching tours in Victoria will allow you to go on another tour for free if no whales pop up on your boat ride.

Poodle looking down on the beautiful lake near Victoria BC

Overall, Victoria is a very safe city! Most dangers derive from the environment, such as flooding, tsunamis, earthquakes. But only earthquakes fall under the “High Risk” category . In general, the crime rate is relatively low.

Is Victoria expensive?

Victoria is considered to be one of the most expensive places to live in Canada. In 2019, PadMapper shared that Victoria sits in the top 5 of the most costly places to reside in the True North. But when it comes to food and drink, expect similar prices to the rest of Canada. On average, a basic dinner for two at a pub costs around $48. Do note that you can easily walk everywhere, so that should help lower transportation costs.

Is Victoria safe at night?

Yes! Most people consider Victoria to be safe when the sun lowers into the horizon. However, it’s still smart to keep your wits about you during the night.

Does it snow in Victoria?

Compared to the rest of Canada, Victoria doesn’t see much snow. And even when it does fall, it doesn’t stick to the ground for very long—the charming city averages around 26 cm of snow a year. However, there have been several snowless winters. It will get rainy, though! So bring warm clothes if you plan on coming during the colder months.

Charm locals with some of these random fun facts about Victoria when you go!

• Victoria is named after Queen Victoria.
• This city receives around 608 mm of rain annually.
• Get ready to eat here! Victoria boasts of the second most restaurants per capita in North America. San Francisco holds the top spot.
• Victoria has over 70 parks!
• British Columbia’s capital is considered the Cycling Capital of Canada.
• Five species of whales float in the waters flanking Victoria.

You’re now ready to plan your trip to Victoria in British Columbia, Canada! Grab your calendar and start choosing which date to book your flight, ferry, or whatever mode of transportation you decide to use to reach this lovely city, which boasts of several activities, stunning architecture, and a lot of restaurants. Before you go, be sure to look at our adventure guides for Victoria —find specific routes tailor-made for you.

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The lovely capital of British Columbia offers myriad attractions: See the world-famous Butchart Gardens, the oldest Chinatown in Canada, and whales off the coast (in season).

Planning a weekend getaway to BC's picturesque Salt Spring Island

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20 incredible Victorian road trips

There’s never been a better time to holiday in your own backyard. So why not set aside a weekend, and venture off on one of these spectacular road trips through The Garden State.

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Explore spa country

Victoria’s “spa country” got its name from the 141 mineral springs in the area. It’s now a place for glorious rest and relaxation, with more indulgent spa treatments, decadent meals and beautiful bush walks than you can poke a stick at. There are loads of great overnight accommodation options too – our top spots to stay are Daylesford (about an hour and a half from Melbourne) and Hepburn Springs. Pictured here is the Lake House in Daylesford, which is a top spot for a long lunch and an overnight stay.

Discover beautiful Bright

Bright is a picturesque little town at the base of the Victorian Alps, and it’s a great base if you want to explore this leafy, peaceful area. Spend your time bike riding, sampling local wines and craft beers, kayaking in the river or hiking in the nearby hills. It’s a scenic drive, about 3 hours 40 minutes from Melbourne. If you want to stay over, check out the cute apartments at Centenary Peaks.

Port Fairy and the Twelve Apostles

Four hours out of Melbourne you’ll find the iconic Twelve Apostles (sorry, but there are actually only eight now… you can thank erosion for that). Keep driving another 1 hour and 20 minutes and you’ll hit Port Fairy, the last stop on the Great Ocean Road . This lovely seaside village is a great spot for an over-nighter. There’s lots of great food – including cracking fish and chips – and you can often spot seals, whales and dolphins from the shore. The Laneway Apartments in Port Fairy make an ideal base.

Meander along the Murray River

Following the river’s path from the mountains of the Great Dividing Range in northeast Victoria to the desert country and wide open plains of South Australia is a really lovely drive. You can stop in and explore gorgeous river towns along the way (be sure to sample some of Rutherglen’s famous wines). There are even secret beaches and we recommend bedding down in the historic town of Mildura . The Quest hotel is a good budget option.

Wilson’s Promontory National Park

Rainforests, spectacular beaches and granite mountains… the southernmost tip of Australia has it all. Affectionately known as “The Prom” this area 2 hours and 30 minutes from Melbourne offers fabulous bushwalks, food and plenty of native wildlife. Pictured here is Refuge Cove – definitely worth a dip if you find yourself there in the warmer months. If you're after a romantic bolthole, we've discovered a spa cabin with gobsmacking views.

Phillip Island

A mere two hours from Melbourne, Phillip Island is where you can see super cute fairy penguins in the wild as they make their daily walk from the sea up the beach. You can also see seals if you’re lucky. The township of Cowes is a very chilled beach town, and is a great spot to crash for the night before you hit the road again. For old-school hotel elegance check out the The Castle Villa By The Sea.

The Great Alpine Road

Wind your way along Victoria’s Great Alpine Road , from Wangaratta in the northeast across to Metung on the jaw-droppingly beautiful Gippsland Lakes. It will take you through diverse landscapes, from lofty mountain ranges, down plunging valleys, into lush forests, and past rolling vineyards to sparkling coastal waterways. Soak up the views at 5 Knots Metung serviced apartments.

The Great Ocean Road

This is considered to one of the world’s most scenic drives, with windy roads offering spectacular views of the expansive ocean below. Childers Cove, pictured here, is one of the hidden gems. The Great Ocean Road kicks off near Anglesea and continues to Port Fairy. There are plenty of great little towns to visit along the way. Wye Rive r is one of the lesser known towns on the coast, but is a lovely peaceful spot for an over-nighter. Ready to go? Here's how best to drive the Great Ocean Road . For a wide range of accomm options, check out the BIG4 Wye River Holiday Park.

Step back in time and visit Bendigo and the goldfields

The heart of Central Victoria and one-time richest city in the world, Bendigo has been attracting people from across the globe since the 1850s gold rush. The dynamic regional centre continues to celebrate its contrasts, setting vibrant arts hubs and buzzing bars and restaurants against grand architecture and a storied history. The Mercure Bendigo Schaller is the ideal place to spend the night.

The Dandenongs

If you don’t want to spend heaps of time in the car, a trip to the Dandenongs is a great option as it’s only around one hour and 15 minutes from Melbourne. But it feels as if you’re worlds away. There are plenty of great walks and accommodation options and if you have kids on board they’ll love the Puffing Billy Railway. Pictured here are the very tranquil Alfred Nicholas Gardens, a lovely wooded garden park with a boathouse, waterfalls and islands.

Book Puffing Billy tickets here

The Grampians

Start your Grampians road trip in Halls Gap and wind your way through the majestic mountains and indigenous Australian rock art sites, stopping along the way to enjoy deliciously fresh local produce, award-winning wines and a variety of dining experiences. It’s three hours northwest of Melbourne. Pictured here is the very excellent Royal Mail Hotel at Dunkeld.

Get acquainted with Gippsland

Be inspired by the space and solitude in Gippsland , the vast eastern corner of Victoria. You’ll be rewarded with unspoilt beaches, pristine lakes and rolling hills of farmland. Along the way visit bustling gourmet waterfront villages, quaint seaside towns and alpine villages and uncover a fascinating rich history and old-fashioned country hospitality. Pick of the local accomm is Ross Farm with its trio of reimagined farm sheds.

The Mornington Peninsula

Wandering through idyllic coastal and hinterland villages, tasting fine cool-climate wines , eating fantastic food, diving into a thrilling aquatic adventure, discovering galleries, lazing in parks, playing some of Australia’s best golf courses and slipping into natural hot springs – this gorgeous peninsula is just 1 hour and 30 minutes from Melbourne and has so much to offer. If you want to lash out on some special digs, the Jackalope in Merricks North still sets the standard.

The area inland from The Great Ocean Road has areas of lush rainforest and picturesque bushland that make for a wonderful drive (some people like to come back to Melbourne via this route when they have finished exploring the coastal road). Be sure to check out the glorious Erskine Falls and if you’re feeling fancy, treat yourself to a degustation at Brae (pictured here), considered to be one of Australia’s best restaurants. For a truly unique stay, check out the Cape Otway Lightstation.

Geelong and the Bellarine Peninsula

Geelong (an hour out of Melbourne) has been reinvented as a cultural precinct with excellent places to eat and drink, galleries and boutiques. Just 30 minutes down the road, you’ll find the Bellarine and its lush vineyards, captivating bay views and charming coastal villages. Here you’ll discover delectable providores, world-class golf courses and enchanting beaches. In this picture is the tiny town of Barwon Heads – made famous by the original Seachange TV series. Stay at the schmick R Hotel Geelong which is right on the waterfront.

Hit the Yarra Valley winery trail

Travel through rolling hills strung with vines, secluded natural valleys set against blue mountain backdrops and lush greenery and pastures, past towering trees and pristine rivers to verdant villages like Marysville and Warburton. Dine in style and marvel at the profundity of fresh local produce at tables in Healesville and Yarra Glen. The Yarra Valley is also a great spot for an early morning hot air balloon ride. If golf is your thing, the RACV Healesville Country Club & Resort offers 18 holes in a pristine bush setting.

Visit Victoria’s wild west

The Mallee area of Victoria is the road less travelled, but that means you’ll be more likely to enjoy some peace and quiet. This region is widely regarded as the agricultural heart of Victoria and it’s a stone’s throw from some of the best rural natural attractions in Australia. You’ll find rustic boutiques, great pubs and the spectacular murals of the Silo Art Trail along the way. There are vast wilderness parks out in the Mallee, so it’s alluring if you’re into native plants, spring flowers and birds. Explore The Mallee can sort you out with a cute cottage called The Roost.

Hit the surf coast

Only 75km southwest of Melbourne is where you’ll find the Surf Coast, incorporating iconic surf towns like Torquay, Anglesea, Airey’s Inlet and Lorne. Lorne in particular has some great restaurants, so this could be a good spot for an over-nighter. Don’t forget to get a selfie under the iconic sign that marks the start of The Great Ocean Road. The Mantra Lorne can sort you out with rooms starting at well under $200.

Explore Man from Snowy River country

Victoria’s High Country is a fabulous spot for a road trip – the 4-hour drive from Melbourne goes through some gorgeous little towns and once you get there, it’s a pristine wonderland. Explore nature trails on foot or horseback, and frolic in the snow in winter. Pepper's Marysville is a sleek and chic place to spend a night or two.

Head to Healesville, a foodie’s paradise

This regional food and wine hub is surrounded by stunning scenery and it’s just an hour and a half from Melbourne. You can also have iconic encounters of the wildlife kind at the Healesville Sanctuary (which makes it a great spot to come if you have international visitors keen to see a kanga or koala). If you’re into wine be sure to hit up Domaine Chandon, Innocent Bystander, Rochford Wines and Coldstream Hills and if gin is more your speed, stop in at Four Pillars distillery (pictured here). Spend the night at the uber cute Old Mechanics, a repurposed workshop now comprising four luxe apartments.

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The best way to day trip to Victoria BC

Last Updated on April 27, 2023

Victoria, BC is one of the most unique and picturesque towns in the Pacific Northwest. Despite its importance as the capital of British Columbia, Victoria’s location on Vancouver Island makes it a little more work to get to since you can only get there by boat or by plane! A day trip to Victoria is totally doable from Seattle or Vancouver and I’ll tell you how to do it and what to do to make the most of your day.

I’ve been going to Victoria for decades with several generations of my family and I’m glad you’ll get to see for yourself how special it is.

Victoria is the land of Songhees and Esquimalt First Nations.

Is a day trip to Victoria worth it?

Do i need a passport to go to victoria, does the victoria clipper have wifi, how to do a day trip to victoria from seattle, how to do a day trip to victoria from vancouver.

• How to do a day trip to Victoria from Port Angeles, WA

What to do on your day trip to Victoria

Related : Top three things to do in a short evening port call in Victoria on an Alaska cruise

Victoria is an absolutely delightful and super walkable town and I really believe you need more than one day to visit Victoria (three days in my opinion is ideal), but if a day is all you have, you should still do it!

A day trip to Victoria is absolutely worth it if that’s what you have to work with and you make the right transportation plans and know what you want to do. I’ll show you how to make the most of your day trip to Victoria so you know you’re having the best day possible.

Yes. If you are going to Victoria from Seattle or Port Angeles.

You are crossing an international border and a passport is required. US and Canadian Citizens can also use an alternate form of ID that is acceptable for crossing the border to Canada, such as a NEXUS card or Passport Card.

If you’re doing your day trip to Victoria from Vancouver BC then you do not need a passport since you’re not crossing a border from Vancouver.

No. On some of the trip you will have a cell signal from either Victoria or Seattle, but some portions of the trip do not have service.

There is wifi available in the terminal, but not at sea.

Even though Seattle is in a different country from Victoria, the easiest way to do a day trip to Victoria (unless you’re already on the Olympic Peninsula in Washington State, see below) is on the Victoria Clipper! The Victoria Clipper is a passenger only fast ferry from the Seattle waterfront to Victoria’s Inner Harbour in less than 3 hours that has operated since 1986.

The Clipper is a wonderful part of the experience, this is not just transportation! There are several class options on board, ranging from airplane style economy seats on the first floor, to more spacious seats upstairs in Vista class and Comfort Class for even more perks and the very best seats on the boat.

The 2 hour and 45 minute journey from Seattle’s waterfront to Victoria’s Inner Harbour is scenic the entire way. It’s one of the best views of Seattle you can get as you sail away, then you head along Bainbridge Island and Whidbey Island and across the Strait of Juan de Fuca to Victoria on Vancouver Island. You’ll see islands and mountains the entire way and even Orca whales if you’re lucky!

The Clipper has assigned seating so you can settle in and not have to worry about having a spot. They also have some food on board as well as coffee, beer and wine.

If you really want to make your day trip special, and give yourself more time in Victoria, then consider booking one of the Clipper’s Sea and Sky packages. The Sea to Sky package takes you one way by boat on the Clipper and the other way by seaplane on Kenmore Air. This is a truly unique Pacific Northwest experience if you can swing the extra cost.

If you take the Victoria Clipper, you’ll end up with about 5 hours in Victoria (I’m taking away an hour to account for passing through customs). If you take the seaplane back, you can have more time.

Check the Victoria Clipper schedule and fares from Seattle to Victoria here .

Doing a day trip to Victoria from Vancouver is less convenient than Seattle or Port Angeles, which is ironic since Vancouver is in Canada and the largest city in British Columbia.

You can definitely still do it. There are two options. The first option is to take the bus from Vancouver to the Tsawwassen ferry terminal, then the ferry to Swartz Bay and then the city bus again from Swartz Bay to downtown Victoria. I have done this multiple times so you can absolutely make it work if you’re a transit rider. Using the transit feature on Google maps works great.

If you want to avoid the hassle of transferring, you can also take the BC Connector, which costs more but there’s less for you to figure out. The BC connector gives you about 4 hours in Victoria.

Check the BC Connector schedule and fares from Vancouver to Victoria here .

If you want to do a faster and awesome (but much more expensive) day trip to Victoria from Vancouver you can also do it on a seaplane on Harbour Air .

How to do a day trip to Victoria from Port Angeles

If you’re already on the Olympic Peninsula or want to add a day in Victoria on your Olympic National Park itinerary , you can take the Coho Black Ball Ferry from downtown Port Angeles to downtown Victoria. It’s a car ferry but for a day trip you definitely want to leave your car in Port Angeles and walk on.

If you take the Coho on the earliest sailing and return on the latest sailing, you’ll have about 8 hours in Victoria (I’m subtracting an hour to account for customs when you arrive).

Keep in mind that you need to already be in Port Angeles the night before and probably also staying that night to make this a reasonable day trip. The crossing time between Port Angeles and Victoria is about 90 minutes.

The Coho has a coffee shop on board so you can get food and they also sell tours on board for when you arrive in Victoria. If you’re doing a day trip to Victoria I highly recommend booking on board

Check the Coho ferry schedule and fares from Port Angeles to Victoria here .

Now that you’ve made it to Victoria, how to make the most of a short, one day visit? I’ve got you.

I recommend that you choose one of the two options below, either plan to maximize your time enjoying Butchart Gardens or explore the town, but not both. If you pay attention to the bus schedule and get back with a little time to spare, then you might be able to squeeze in a walk around the Inner Harbour before getting back to your boat or bus.

If you have a longer day, then absolutely do both of these!

One note – I don’t recommend doing whale watching if you only have a day trip to Victoria, because you’re already spending a lot of time on boats in your day and because there are many places around the Pacific Northwest you can do whale watching.

Whale watching in Victoria is absolutely fantastic, but if you only have a few hours I would recommend spending it seeing things you won’t see anywhere else.

Another important note : there are no ride shares (Uber/Lyft) in Victoria and taxis are often in high demand. Plan to book transportation on board your ferry, take public transit or walk around town.

Option #1 – Butchart Gardens and Afternoon Tea

For anyone who loves flowers, Butchart Gardens is an absolutely must see. I’m pretty sure I’ve been to Butchart Gardens in every month of the year and it’s always completely stunning. If you’re there in spring or summer, of course you’ll see the maximium number of blooms of every imaginable flower from tulips to roses so that makes it even better.

Butchart Gardens is also completely magical during the holidays, if you happen to be there then.

They also have the best Afternoon Tea in Victoria in my opinion – a combination of the food, the setting and the price. If you’re going to be in the gardens I highly recommend afternoon tea here.

Once you’ve spent as much time as you like exploring, head back to town on the bus and if you have time, take a walk around the Inner Harbour and at least sea the Empress Hotel and Houses of Parliament from the outside.

I highly recommend booking your trip to Butchart Gardens on board the Victoria Clipper or Coho Ferry, because this gets you a bit closer to the front of the line for customs and it also makes everything easier and more convenient on a short trip. You can take the city bus to the gardens but it takes longer and you want to maximize your time.

Option #2 – Exploring Victoria and Afternoon Tea

If you decide you would prefer to explore the town and skip going to the gardens, start off by taking a walk around the Inner Harbour to get a feel for town. The distances are short, and you’ll see some of the iconic sights of Victoria such as the Empress Hotel and the British Columbia Parliament building.

Afternoon Tea

I recommend taking afternoon tea for lunch and you have a few options. The Empress Hotel is the iconic place for tea, so if you’re all about tradition make it the Empress. For something a bit more low key, but still a perfect tea experience, try the Pendray Tea house that’s right across from the Clipper and Coho ferry dock.

If you want a less formal experience, but some delicious food and wonderful tea, head to Murchie’s. You’ll have lots of amazing food options and it’s much less expensive. It’s not and “official” tea, so if you’re looking for a tiered tea stand with treats and sandwiches, this isn’t it, but it’s a really good alternative.

Book your tea time on board the Clipper or Coho ferry if that’s how you’re arriving (if you’re on the bus from Vancouver you’ll need to book on your own). They can make sure you get a reservation and you don’t have to spend time figuring that out when you get there.

Getting a ride around Victoria

After tea, try a Tally-Ho carriage ride around town or the Hop on Hop off bus (tickets are available for both on the Clipper too). The Harbour ferry is another unique way to explore Victoria, start at the dock in the Inner Harbour near Milestones and the Prince of Whales.

Exploring Victoria on foot or by bike

If you’re wanting to get some exercise in during your day trip to Victoria, instead of catching a ride or a tour, you can walk or bike all over the place!

One of my favorite walks around Victoria is to walk from behind the Parliament Building to Beacon Hill Park, and then down to Dallas Road, along the trail to the Ogden Point Breakwater, then to Fisherman’s Wharf (get ice cream or fish and chips here) and back to the Parliament buildings. That walk is a little over 6km (about 4 miles) and is mostly flat, with a few inclines here and there around Beacon Hill Park.

If you’d rather cover more ground, rent a bike from The Pedaler, located across the street from the Victoria Clipper and Coho ferry terminal. You can rent ebikes or regular bikes for more exploring.

Shopping or Museums

If time and energy permit, make some time for window shopping (or real shopping) on Government Street. You’ll find everything from local art, to clothing to tea, to a wonderful independent bookstore (Munro’s), an incredible chocolate shop (Roger’s) and more.

Museums more your thing that shopping? Check out the wonderful Royal BC Museum between the Empress Hotel and the Parliament Building, or the Maritime Museum for boat enthusiasts.

I enjoy grabbing a drink and a snack at Milestones in the Inner Harbour because of the great view and the opportunity to watch all the boats, ferries, tours, bikes and seaplanes going in and out of Victoria.

Final thoughts

Even though there’s much more to see and do, a day trip to Victoria is totally worth it! Just make sure you plan wisely and book any tours or tea reservations on board the Victoria Clipper or Coho ferry so you can make the most of your time and not have to worry about logistics.

If you’re coming from Vancouver or you just enjoy exploring on your own, walking and biking around Victoria will give you plenty to do for your day trip.

Victoria is a special place that I’m certain you’ll want to come back to!

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A perfect itinerary for australia’s victoria road trip.

A Victoria road trip is one of the most popular trips in Australia, especially if you’re living in Melbourne.

Although the state is compact, it has some impressive natural beauty that is easily accessible from the state capital. Encompassing the spectacular coastline of the Great Ocean Road, over to the enthralling diversity of the Grampians National Park, through the historically significant gold-rush area around Ballarat and past arty townships like Daylesford, this week-long Victoria road trip itinerary will show you some of the best that this Australian state has to offer.

Any car or campervan can be used for this road trip; there is no need for 4WD or AWD capability. You can opt to camp along the way, or stay in hostels and hotels en-route.

Use this Victorian road trip planner, which includes some recommendations for the best hotels and hostels, campgrounds and restaurants in certain areas, to create your dream trip.

And, if you are living in Melbourne but don’t have the time to take a whole week off for this trip, you could split it into three weekend trips from Melbourne.

Victoria Road Trip Route

Day 1: Melbourne

Kicking off your Victoria road trip than none other than its state capital, there’s plenty to keep you occupied in Melbourne for much longer than a day.

However, if you’re keen to see the great Victorian countryside and only have a day to soak in the city, you can fit the highlights in in one day.

Things to do in Melbourne

• See the street art of Hoiser Lane
• Check out the amazing architecture of the State Library of Victoria
• Visit Federation Square and the AMCI
• Get lost down one of the laneways
• Enjoy a coffee at one of Melbourne’s best cafes
• Head to St Kilda to watch the penguins
• Dine at the vegetarian pay as you wish restaurant, Lentil as Anything
• And heaps more! Here’s a great list of things to do in Melbourne .

Where to stay in Melbourne

Urban Central Hostel offers affordable dorm rooms and great facilities. Each bunk is kitted with its own private light and charging points, and the 4 bed dorms are spacious. On site is a large kitchen and communal area. Check out prices and book today using this link .

Alternatively, if you’re after private accomodation, QT Melbourne is a fantastic option. It offers fantastic modern conveniences and is conveniently placed very near St Paul’s Cathedral and Federation Square, and there is an on site restaurant, cafe and bar. Click here for rates and book today .

Day 2 & 3: The Great Ocean Road

One of the best things to do outside Melbourne, the Great Ocean Road is arguably Australia’s most famous stretch of coastline.

You can do the Great Ocean Road in a day, but it’s best to take some time and spend two days driving along the coastal route – especially in the summer, when temperatures can top 40 degrees and you’ll be wanting a dip in the ocean!

There’s plenty to see on the Great Ocean Road, which includes beaches (of course), rainforest and intriguing natural formations. The Great Ocean Road is also a great place to spot wildlife – keep an eye out for kangaroos, koalas, tiger snakes (not too common but they do lurk around) and native birds.

Day 2 – Torquay to Apollo Bay

Drive to Torquay and begin your exploration of the Great Ocean Road. Some of the best parts to visit on the eastern side of the Great Ocean Road include:

• Bells Beach – this is a popular surfing spot and beautiful beach
• Aireys Inlet – a township with beautiful beaches and the Split Point Lighthouse which was made famous in the Aussie kid’s TV show Round the Twist.
• Lorne – a charming seaside town, Lorne has a wonderful pier, lots of restaurants and cafes and of course, stunning beaches.
• Apollo Bay – gateway to the Otways and a lovely township with cafes, restaurants and watersports on offer.

Get to Apollo Bay for sundown and enjoy food at one of its restaurants. There are a variety of accommodation options available in Apollo Bay – these range from free campsites to hotels.

Where to stay in Apollo Bay

If you’re after a hostel with cheap rates and backpacker facilities, the Apollo Bay Eco YHA is a fantastic option. It has clean, airy dormitories and private rooms and well facilitated communal areas. Click here for rates and to book .

Alternatively, you could book a private cabin at Marengo Holiday Park, which sleeps up to 5 people. These self-catering cabins feature cooking facilities, sleeping arrangements, a private bathroom and balcony with BBQ. Click here for rates and to book .

If you’re travelling with a dog, some of Victoria’s best pet-friendly cabins are on the Great Ocean Road, too.

Day 3 Apollo Bay to Warrnambool:

The next morning, head to some of these great sights on the Western end of the Great Ocean Road.

• Maits Rest Rainforest Walk – just 15 minutes’ drive inland from Apollo Bay, nestled in the Otways is this tranquil rainforest walk. The walk takes 30 minutes, but there are lots of places to sit and enjoy the beautiful natural surroundings.
• Twelve Apostles – these interesting rock formations, which along with Mutton Bird Island were originally called ‘sow and piglets’ (the island was the sow and the apostles the piglets), but their name was changed to the 12 apostles for tourism purposes. There were actually only 9 when they were named so – and now, only 8 remain.
• Loch Ard Gorge – just west of the 12 Apostles, this part of Port Campbell National Park is an impressive drop between two cliffs right at the ocean’s edge; it’s a great spot to relax on the beach or take some beautiful photos.
• London Arch – another intriguing form, London Arch (formerly London Bridge) collapsed in 1990, meaning that it now can only be admired from the shore, rather than on the arch itself. If you’re around at the end of the day, you might spot some resident penguins returning to their sleeping spots for the night.
• The Grotto – (pictured above) beneath an arch, seawater gathers and creates a beautiful effect of different blues and greens dancing and glittering in the light. It’s a great, lesser well known spot near the western end of the Great Ocean Road.

Later in the day, you’ll reach Warnambool. Galleries, restaurants and a Flagstaff Maritime Village comprise some of the best things to do in this coastal town .

Depending on the time, whether you want to drive in the dark (there are kangaroos on the road at night, so be very careful if you do) and how early you want to get up the next day, you could either stay in Warrnambool, find a wikicamp on the way to The Grampians, or find accomodation in the national park itself.

Accommodation in Warrnambool

If you’re after a hotel in Warrnambool, check out the Best Western Tudor Motor Inn. With clean, aesthetically pleasing rooms with features making for a comfortable nights stay, it’s a great place to rest in Warrnambool. Check out prices and booking details here .

If you’re after your own space, Apartments 521 is the answer. These stylish flats give you your own space for the night – some which come with a spa bath and kitchenette. Check out this great accomodation by clicking here .

Day 4 & 5: Gariwerd (The Grampians)

One of the greatest Victorian road trip destinations, Gariwerd (commonly known by its anglicized name, The Grampians – but it was called Gariwerd by the indigenous population for thousands of years prior) is a spectacular national park.

Like many National Parks in Australia, Gariwerd is rich in Aboriginal heritage and natural beauty. The area is a spiritual place for Aboriginal people due to the food, water and shelter offered by the landscape, and also because of its integral part of the creation story of Bunjil the Eagle ; who created Gariwerd and then transfigured into an eagle to admire his work.

The park is home to Aboriginal rock art and a fantastic cultural centre, which is 100% Aboriginal owned and operated. Throughout the park, you can enjoy bush walks, spectacular waterfalls and astounding lookouts – it’s without a doubt one of the best spots to lose yourself in nature in Victoria.

Begin your day by checking out the Brambuk Cultural Centre ; which has an impressive amount of information about local Aboriginal culture – and is one of my favourite cultural centres in Australia. It discusses both the poetic stories of the dreamtime and other aspects of Indigenous culture, but doesn’t shy away from showcasing the horrors of what happened during the European invasion of the land – which, as a sign of respect for Aboriginal people, should be something that every traveller to Australia makes an effort to understand.

Pass your first afternoon in the national park by visiting Mackenzie Falls, a tranquil swimming spot in beautiful surroundings. There are also short walks such as the 2km ‘The Balconies’ walk and ‘The Chimney Pots’ which is 2.8km and takes around 3 hours.

Spend that night within the national park. There are hostels, guesthouses and campsites at Halls Gap (where there are also shops and restaurants, so don’t worry if you’ve forgotten anything!) or free camping spots at other locations within the park.

Accommodation in Halls Gap

If you fancy treating yourself, take a peek at The Grampians Motel and The Views Bar and Restaurant. This boutique hotel features stylish rooms with elegant bedsheets and wall hangings. There are rooms to suit all size groups; each with a private bathroom. Click here for rates and to book today .

If you are wishing to stay within nature, but don’t fancy camping independently, Mountain View Motor Inn & Holiday Lodges is a great middle ground. Frequented by emus and kangaroos, the property offers spectacular views of Gariwerd and fantastic features within the cottages and rooms; including a spa bath, flat screen TV and electric blankets. Check here for rates and to book .

Day 5: The Pinnacle Hike

Today’s the day to conquer the Pinnacle hike! If it’s a hot day, set off early to beat most of the heat while you’re climbing up. The view from the top is spectacular spreading across fields, forests and lakes; take a picnic to the top and spend some time taking it all in.

Further down the Pinnacle are Venus Baths, which are perfect for a post-hike dip. Once you reach the bottom of the pinnacle, continue your Victorian road trip by heading an hour and a half eastwards towards Ballarat.

Day 6 & 7: Ballarat & Daylesford

Famed for being the place where gold was first found in Victoria, Ballarat is a historic city with a wealth of attractions and sightseeing.

Sovereign Hill is undoubtedly its most renowned attraction – which is also widely regarded as one of the most comprehensive outdoor museums in the world – but other things to do in Ballarat include admiring old architecture, strolling around the many lakes and gardens and getting lost in various museums and galleries that tell the tale of the city that was built on gold.

Day 6: Sovereign Hill

Ballarat is most notably famous for one thing: gold. It was the site of Australia’s biggest gold rush and the Eureka Rebellion ; which is one of the most pivotal parts of Australian history.

Ballarat preserves this history extraordinarily, and one of the best things to do in the goldfields area of Victoria is to visit Sovereign Hill.

Sovereign Hill is an immersive experience of what life was like in the goldfields in the 1850s and is complete with schools, blacksmiths, authentic pubs and mine tours.

It is an all-day activity, and it’s best to get there early to make the most of all the attractions – although, if you do have some extra time on your road trip around Victoria, it’s worth noting that the tickets are valid for the following day as well.

Sovereign Hill Highlights

• Touring the mines (some come at an additional cost) to see how gold was extracted
• Learning how sweets, candles and more were made during the era
• Learning how to write in the cursive style typically taught in schools during that time (get ready to be told off – apparently I wouldn’t have got far in an 1850s school!)
• A Chinese temple – there were lots of Chinese workers on the goldfields and the area surrounding the temple tells their tale.
• Models of workers’ accomodations
• An 1850s bowling alley!

Soveriegn Hill is a fantastic way to learn about Australia’s gold rush and what life was like back then; and is a fascinating place to visit for people of all ages.

Blood on the Southern Cross

In the evening, Sovereign Hill turns into a re-enactment of the Eureka Stockade with the magnificent ‘Blood on the Southern Cross’. This sound and light show really gives you the feeling that you’re in the event, and can be combined with dinner and a stay in one of Sovereign Hill’s hotels.

Where to stay in Ballarat

Right in the heart of the city is Ballarat Station Apartments; self contained accommodation located next to the station. It’s a stones throw from the beautiful buildings of Lydiard Street, with facilities such as spa baths and free unlimited wifi; and each apartment offers fully equipped kitchens. Click here for rates and to book .

Set in one of Ballarat’s oldest buildings, built during the gold rush, Ansonia on Lydiard is a beautiful property catered for guests wanting to enjoy a night of relaxation. The guest lounge offers an open fireplace, and each room comes equipped with air conditioning, toiletries, an ipod dock and of course, an en suite bathroom. Check out the finer details here .

A short drive away from Ballarat, but perfect for budget travelers, Helen’s Luxury Hut is a firm favourite for travellers. The rooms are ornately decorated, and each features an en suite bathroom with free toiletries and a hairdryer. There is a communal kitchen and lounge area. Click here for more details and to book .

Day 7 – Ballarat Town and Daylesford

Use the morning to see some more of Ballarat’s attractions. Being one of Australia’s most historic towns, there’s old buildings to admire, as well as a wealth of culture.

Things to do in Ballarat

• See the historic buildings of Lydiard Street
• Walk Sturt Street and see the many statues
• Walk or cycle around Lake Wendouree
• Check out the Art Gallery of Ballarat
• Visit the Botanical Gardens
• A lunch or afternoon tea at Craig’s Hotel

After lunch, head to the beautiful spot of Daylesford, which is semi-en route back to Melbourne. The main street of Daylesford doesn’t take long to explore, but the charming buildings, the plentiful art shops and independent shops are well worth perusing.

Hepburn Springs is located just down the road from Daylesford, and is home to walking tracks and a spa; Hepburn Springs is known to have pure, healing waters. Conclude your Victoria road trip by enjoying the tranquillity of the springs.

If you’re in a rush to return to Melbourne, Daylesford is located just an hour and a half away away. Or, spend a night in tranquil Daylesford, enjoying the serene atmosphere and stay at one of their lovely hotels.

Accommodation in Daylesford

Exposed brick and funky furnishings make each room at Daylesford Royal Hotel a little unique, and other features like free toiletries, an electric kettle and electric blankets make it a home away from home.

It’s in a great location in Daylesford and has a bar and restaurant on site, which serves a continental breakfast every morning. Click here for rates and to book.

If you’re looking for somewhere to unwind before heading back to city life, check out Hepburn at Hepburn, which boasts self-contained accommodation in the tranquil forest of Hepburn Springs. As well as your standard facilities such as a kettle, ironing facilities and toiletries, each villa has luxury touches such as a hot tub, flat-screen TV and an iPod station. Click here for prices and to book today.

Day 8: Return to Melbourne

If you’ve overnighted in Daylesford, today’s the day to conclude your Victoria road trip by returning to Melbourne.

From here, you could either stay and enjoy the city some more, or venture north-east wards to see what the east coast has to offer!

Alternatively, you could venture into South Australia; there are a few excellent places to visit on a Melbourne to Adelaide road trip over the border.

What time of year to do the Victoria road trip

Being British, I’m no stranger to talking about the weather – but while Victoria’s climate bears some similarities to ours in the UK; it can also be much more enthralling. Victoria sometimes gets temperatures of up to 40 degrees, and many days in the summer top 30 degrees.

BUT… you never know quite what the weather will do – one day it can be 35 and scorching, the next 15 and raining. It’s part of the adventure of travelling in Victoria.

Nonetheless, I’d recommend doing the Victoria road trip in the late spring, summer or early autumn (November-April) and just dealing with what weather comes your way.

In an ideal world, you’d have a clear, but not too hot day to explore the Grampians, glorious beach weather for the Great Ocean Road and pleasant temperatures for Ballarat and Daylesford. But you can’t guarantee anything until you see the weather forecast for the next week – and even then it’ll probably change.

Things you will need for your Victoria road trip

 If you’re planning on staying in hotels, your road trip essentials are mainly your clothes, electronics and toiletries – whatever you’d take on a normal holiday. If you’re camping, you’ll need some more gear. Here’s some recommended items to consider bringing (click through to see the products and purchase)

• Lonely Planet Australia or Lonely Planet Victoria and Melbourne
• Road map of Victoria
• Camera – to get some great high quality photos on. I use the Fuji x-a3
• GoPro – to get some awesome video shots on! My Go Pro Hero 5 is AWESOME .

If you’re camping

• Sleeping Bag
• Camping pillow
• Esky or cooler bag

If you enjoyed this article, please share it or follow me on Facebook for more! Here’s some more Australian road trip itineraries that I think you’ll love…

• West Coast Australia Road Trip Itinerary
• Broome to Darwin Drive Itinerary
• Darwin to Adelaide Road Trip Itinerary
• Melbourne to Perth Road Trip Itinerary
• Adelaide to Cairns Outback Drive Itinerary
• Tasmania Road Trip Itinerary

One thought on “ A Perfect Itinerary for Australia’s Victoria Road Trip ”

Why is it one of the greats? Taking a trip along the Great Ocean Road is an Australian rite of passage. It winds 243 kilometres along some of Australia s most stunning coastline, taking in rainforest, sunburnt cliffs, shipwrecks, and, of course, the famous Twelve Apostles of which there are now eight.

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Vancouver Island road trip: Victoria, British Columbia, and the Gulf Islands

A wonderland of azure bays, rippling lakes, old-growth forests and lofty mountain peaks, Vancouver Island lies just off the coast of mainland British Columbia, but in many respects it feels like its own distinct province.

Although British Columbia's capital city, Victoria, lies at its southeastern tip, most of Vancouver Island is virgin wilderness. At 12,079 square miles, it's nearly six times larger than Canada 's only island province, Prince Edward Island.

Yet, as immense as it is, you can get to know the top destinations on the more populous yet still ruggedly stunning southern third of the island in less than a week. The highlights include Victoria and the Saanich Peninsula, the far southwestern coastline out to Port Renfrew, and the Gulf Islands archipelago. And if you have a little extra time, you can tack on a side trip to idyllic and idiosyncratic Tofino, on the island's wild west coast.

An adventure in this part of Canada appeals to recreation enthusiasts, foodies, artists and culture seekers. Hikers and beachcombers will discover endless opportunities to commune with nature and view dramatic wildlife, from formidable orcas (killer whales) to myriad migratory birds.

Related: From California to British Columbia: 10 best places for an idyllic West Coast getaway

Victoria, along with even the island's smaller towns, abounds with farm-to-table restaurants and third-wave cafes, along with laid-back yet sometimes quite prestigious art galleries and crafts boutiques.

Ferries ply the region's spectacular Salish Sea, making it easy to travel by car from the mainland to Vancouver Island and then among the Gulf Islands, which lie just off of Vancouver Island's southeastern coast. From Victoria, it's a scenic 90-minute ferry ride across the Strait of Juan de Fuca to Port Angeles, Washington, making it easy to combine this adventure with an additional road trip around the Olympic Peninsula and San Juan Islands .

Planning advice

Timing and border crossings

Although you can get around Victoria's Inner Harbour and several of the towns in the area on foot, a car is needed to get around the more rural parts of the island. Factoring in the time you might spend in Vancouver if that's your gateway city, give yourself at least eight days to experience this itinerary. That gives you enough time to spend two or three nights in Victoria, a night in Sooke or Port Renfrew, and three to five nights in the Gulf Islands.

Tack on two or three nights if you're also going to Tofino. If you're planning to ferry or drive into neighboring Washington, remember to travel with your passport and make sure that if you're renting a car, the agency permits you to take it over the border (most British Columbia and Washington rental agencies do allow this).

Fees and reservations

Ferry fees, especially when traveling with a car, can add some expense to your trip. In high season, for example, it costs around 160 Canadian dollars (about $118) to take the ferry (including a standard-size vehicle, driver and passenger) to Salt Spring Island via Swartz Bay and then to continue on to Tsawwassen on the British Columbia mainland. If taking the Black Ball Ferry from Victoria to Port Angeles, plan to spend about CA$135 ($100).

Although ferry reservations aren't required, they're a good idea if you're bringing a car, especially on weekends and during the busy mid-spring to mid-fall high season.

Best start and end points

Including time spent on the ferry, it's only a few hours' drive from Vancouver on the British Columbia mainland to get to Victoria. If renting a car, remember that you'll need to return your vehicle in the same country that you picked it up, and that returning it at a different location within Canada can result in steep one-way fees.

This trip begins in Victoria; however, the region's largest airport with the greatest number of direct flights is Vancouver International Airport (YVR), so it may make the most sense to start and end your travels there, and then catch a ferry from Tsawwassen to Swartz Bay, a short drive from Victoria.

Although there are fewer direct flights to Victoria International Airport (YYJ) than to Vancouver, it can still make sense to start and end your trip there, especially if you're short on time or traveling only a portion of this itinerary.

The best time to visit Vancouver Island

The most popular season for exploring this region is mid-May through mid-October. This is when you can count on the driest and sunniest weather. That said, Victoria and the Gulf Islands are in the Olympic rain shadow and thus generally receive less rain and cloud cover than much of the rest of western British Columbia.

So even if visiting in the heart of winter, it's possible to experience at least some partly sunny days. As you might expect, hotel rates are considerably higher during the high season, and you'll also experience more crowds at this time. Try to reserve hotel rooms well in advance during the busy period, and prepare for potentially long waits to board the ferry.

If visiting during the quieter months, from mid-autumn through mid-spring, you'll have much more of the island and its scenic roads to yourself, and you'll also potentially save quite a lot of money.

Furthermore, the dramatic squalls that often blow through the coastal Pacific Northwest from mid-November through March have created a highly popular phenomenon known as storm-watching, which typically entails some combination of braving the elements to walk on or near the beach (but safely away from the potentially dangerous surf) and then holing up afterward in a cozy room adorned with tall windows and maybe — hopefully — a gas fireplace, with a good book, a favorite companion and/or a bottle of wine.

Victoria, British Columbia

From Port Angeles, it's a 90-minute ferry ride across the Strait of Juan de Fuca to Victoria, the dignified and — by Canadian standards — balmy capital of British Columbia. With a population of about 92,000, it's also the second-largest city (after Nanaimo, which is only slightly larger) on Vancouver Island, a huge (it's nearly half as large as Ireland) but minimally developed tract of sculpted inlets, jagged mountain peaks and temperate rainforest.

As it approaches downtown's compact skyline of midrise towers, the ferry chugs slowly through the sheltered, picturesque Inner Harbour, which is home to the constant hum of seaplanes, pleasure boats and water taxis.

From the terminal, you can walk to many of this leafy city's top attractions, including the ornately neo-baroque provincial parliament buildings, the engaging Royal BC Museum and the Fairmont Empress hotel. Afternoon high tea in this venerable 1908 hotel is a treasured rite as well as a testament to Victoria's traditional — some might say fusty —British reputation.

In reality, Victoria has become rapidly younger, more diverse and dynamic in recent years, and hip craft breweries, third-wave coffeehouses, trendy international bistros and sceney (but friendly) cocktail lounges now proliferate. Many of the best dining and drinking spots are set along downtown's Fisgard Street, which forms the heart of the city's historic Chinatown.

Related: Best road trips in the US

It's a short walk from the waterfront to the city's most celebrated green space, Beacon Hill Park, with its pine-shaded trails that lead south to Spiral Beach and Finlayson Point — these are two fabulous spots for watching the sunset across the water, back toward Washington's snowcapped Olympic Mountains. A favorite part of the park is Beacon Hill Children's Farm, where you can see and sometimes pet pot-bellied pigs, miniature donkeys, goats and other cute critters. Try to time your visit to watch the ridiculously cute daily goat stampedes at around 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.

Leave the park by driving east along scenic Dallas Road and Beach Drive, following the curving shoreline and admiring genteel Oak Bay, and then take Highway 17 north to the cute port town of Sidney, which is home to the terrific Shaw Centre for the Salish Sea aquarium.

On the way to Sidney, set aside at least a couple of hours to detour a few miles west on Keating Cross Road to the renowned Butchart Gardens , a 55-acre former limestone quarry on Brentwood Bay that in 1921 was transformed into a series of carefully planned and curated gardens.

Where to stay

Enjoy views of the ferries, yachts and seaplanes that ply Victoria's Inner Harbour from the balcony of your room at the fashionably sleek Inn at Laurel Point (rates start at CA$289 per night), with a Japanese garden, a pool and an excellent Pacific Rim-inspired restaurant, Aura.

Abigail's Hotel (rates start at CA$429 per night) is a luxurious old-world Tudor Revival inn built in the 1930s. It stands out for its attentive service and gourmet breakfasts, and it's close to both Beacon Hill Park and historic downtown.

A scenic 10-minute drive east of the Inner Harbour via famously beautiful Dallas Road, the Oak Bay Beach Hotel (rates start at CA$277 per night) features gorgeously appointed, contemporary rooms as well as three curvaceous heated mineral pools overlooking the sea and San Juan Island in the distance. This boutique resort's Boathouse Spa offers a full slate of ultrarelaxing massage services and body treatments, and since 1954, the Snug Pub has been a beloved spot for waterfront cocktails and casual dining.

With a full-service spa and a superb location steps from Glass Beach and the Shaw Centre for the Salish Sea aquarium, the contemporary Sidney Pier Hotel & Spa (rates start at CA$249 per night) is just a short drive from the ferries to the Gulf Islands.

Related: I spent 2 magical nights in a century-old caboose in Nova Scotia, Canada — here's what it was like

Sooke and Port Renfrew, British Columbia

For a splendid drive along Vancouver Island's verdant and unhurried southern coast, make the two-hour trek to Port Renfrew, which lies literally at the end of the road.

From Victoria, take gently rolling and lushly forested Highway 14 — stopping in Sooke, with its farm-to-table restaurants and posh country inns — and continue as the road hugs the pristine shoreline.

Magnificent vistas of Washington's Olympic Mountains await, and you'll discover several beautiful parks and beaches along the route, including French Beach, Jordan River Regional Park (where you might stop inside the quirky Cold Shoulder Cafe for an Earl Grey latte or a bowl of chanterelle mushroom soup), and Sombrio Beach. At the end of Highway 14, you'll finally come to tiny Port Renfrew, a hub of First Nations culture that lies where the San Juan and Gordon rivers empty into the sea.

Wonderful spots for a stroll include the tide pools and dramatic rock formations of Botanical Beach Provincial Park and Avatar Grove, with its hulking, gnarled old-growth cedars.

You can return to Victoria the way you came, or you can make a half-hour-longer scenic loop through dense evergreen forests to Lake Cowichan and then along the west side of Saanich Inlet.

One of the most acclaimed country inns in British Columbia, the Sooke Harbour House (rates start at CA$429 per night) closed in 2020 in order to undergo a major renovation. As of this writing, the 28-room inn was planning to reopen sometime in early 2024, and the vaunted locavore-minded restaurant — which has drawn foodies since it opened in the late 1970s — will be helmed by celebrated chef Melissa Craig.

A stunning contemporary compound of log-style bungalows perched over the sea or overlooking fragrant gardens, Wild Renfrew Seaside Cottages (rates start at CA$249 per night) sits amid the ancient forests lining Port San Juan Inlet. Rooms have floor-to-ceiling windows, and many have private decks, fireplaces and hot tubs.

More affordable lodgings are found in the nearby motel-style West Coast Trail Lodge (rates start at CA$139 per night), which is owned and operated by the same team. It's just a short walk from either property to the delightful Renfrew Pub , a casual eatery with elevated Canadian fare and expansive water views.

The Gulf Islands, British Columbia

From Swartz Bay, just a 30-minute drive north of Sidney, you can catch frequent ferries to explore the easygoing and incredibly picturesque southern Gulf Islands, which are geologically part of the same archipelago as the San Juan Islands, just across the maritime border with the United States.

Like the San Juans, these emerald isles are sparsely populated and minimally developed, making them ideal for a peaceful getaway amid breathtaking natural scenery. Biking, hiking, fishing and kayaking are prime activities in these parts.

All of the islands covered in this itinerary are served by BC Ferries , but keep in mind that ferry schedules can change often, so always confirm online when boats are running and to where.

A good strategy is to spend a couple of nights on the largest and most populous of the group, Salt Spring Island, and then set aside another day or two to visit up to three more islands set along the main ferry route between Swartz Bay and the mainland town of Tsawwassen: Pender, Mayne and Galiano.

Salt Spring Island

It's an easy 35-minute ferry ride from Swartz Bay to Fulford Harbour, on the south side of Salt Spring Island. The largest of the Gulf Islands, Salt Spring has about 11,600 year-round residents, including a sizable number of artists, makers and other creative spirits. The lively harborside village of Ganges anchors this hilly, agrarian island and contains a wealth of galleries, recreation outfitters, cafes and shops.

For a lovely view of the harbor, grab a seat on the waterfront deck at Moby's Pub , which serves up tasty burgers and local beer. Scenic roads lace the island and access the coastal trails of Ruckle Provincial Park, an excellent place for viewing whales and sea lions in Captain Passage, and Mount Maxwell Provincial Park, where you can drive a gravel road or hike well-maintained trails to 1,175-foot-high Baynes Peak for panoramic island vistas.

Pender Island

The other stops you'll encounter if you choose the multi-island ferry route from Swartz Bay to Tsawwassen each have their own distinct personalities.

Easygoing Pender Island (technically North Pender and South Pender islands, which are separated by a short bridge) draws visitors for hikes through the Roesland and Beaumont sections of Gulf Islands National Park Preserve — the 1.6-mile climb to Mount Norman is especially popular.

Reward yourself after a day of outdoor adventures by visiting the sun-filled, contemporary tasting room at Sea Star Vineyard and Winery or sampling the delicious sips at Twin Island Cider.

Mayne Island

With around 1,300 residents, compact Mayne Island is known for the stunning flower beds and carefully tended specimen trees and shrubs at Japanese Memorial Gardens.

On the island's northern tip, spend some time strolling around the 45-foot-tall Active Pass Lighthouse — the tree-shaded grounds overlooking the pass between Mayne and Galiano islands are a memorable spot for a picnic.

Galiano Island

About 17 miles long, narrow and undulating Galiano Island is a top draw among fans of wildlife viewing — you can spy everything from bald eagles and cormorants to seals and orca whales from the shores of this serene isle that abounds with hiking preserves and quiet pebbly beaches.

Bellhouse Provincial Park and Montague Harbour Marine Provincial Park are among the best places to take in the splendid natural scenery. The island also boasts a top-notch golf course, and you'll find a handful of endearing shops and eateries within walking distance of the ferry terminal at Sturdies Bay.

Offering country-chic sophistication and a peaceful setting amid 22 acres of gardens and woodlands on the edge of Salt Spring Island's main village, the Relais & Chateaux-branded Hastings House Country House Hotel (rates start at CA$525 per night) offers the ultimate Gulf Islands splurge. The 18 bungalows and suites come with sumptuous touches like fresh floral bouquets, fireplaces and full gourmet breakfasts. Facials and massages in the warmly appointed Wellspring Spa incorporate local herbs, and the outstanding restaurant serves seafood, lamb and produce sourced locally.

Set on the quiet north end of Salt Spring Island, the intimate and romantic Quarrystone House B&B (rates start at CA$290 per night) has four spacious, light-filled rooms with Jacuzzi tubs, fireplaces, and patios or decks with sweeping westerly panoramas across the water. The three-course breakfasts feature house-made jams and local cheeses, eggs and meats.

On South Pender Island, consider overnighting at Poets Cove Resort & Spa (rates start at CA$220 per night), a wood-frame Arts and Crafts-style property nestled beneath a pine-dotted hillside overlooking Bedwell Harbour Marina. With a mix of villas, cottages and conventional hotel rooms, Poets Cove is known for its relaxing spa, complete with a eucalyptus steam cave and hot tub. There are three restaurants, too.

On the low-key east side of the isle, Mayne Island Resort (rates start at CA$139 per night) has both posh contemporary villas and cottages and moderately priced standard rooms in the original 1912 main lodge building. The resort is home to the convivial Bennett Bay Bistro, a memorable spot to sup on local salmon, prawns and scallops.

On Galiano Island, you can watch ferries and pleasure boats come and go from an airy glass-walled room at the Galiano Oceanfront Inn and Spa (rates start at CA$234 per night) overlooking scenic Sturdies Bay. Madrona del Mar Spa offers an array of organic skincare treatments, and e-bike rentals are available if you'd like to give the car a rest.

Nanaimo and Tofino side trip

If you're up for seeing more of Vancouver Island, one option is to depart Salt Spring Island by ferry from the Vesuvius Bay terminal and then drive from Crofton to the laid-back coastal city of Nanaimo, which is home to a handful of notable attractions, including the engaging Nanaimo Museum , which touches on the region's rich First Nations heritage and coal-mining heritage, and the bustling Harbourfront Walkway, a scenic pathway that fringes the city's colorful waterfront and offers easy access to a number of nearby restaurants and shops.

Be sure to treat yourself to a Nanaimo bar, the local chocolate layered confection that's adored throughout British Columbia. You can find these all over town, with Mon Petit Choux Bakery — near both the Nanaimo Museum and the Harbourfront Walkway — serving some of the best.

It's a three-hour drive from Nanaimo, via highways 19 and 4, through prolific logging towns and across the Pacific Coast mountains to secluded Tofino , a nature lovers utopia that fringes Pacific Rim National Park Reserve and enjoys a magical, windswept setting where Clayoquot Sound meets the sea.

This is one of Canada's most enchanting small towns, a wonderful place to embark on dramatic hikes through misty temperate rainforests and to set out on sea-kayaking, whale-watching and fishing tours.

Although inhabited by only around 2,500 residents, Tofino has a thriving art and culinary scene, including some of the province's most acclaimed restaurants — Wolf in the Frog and Shelter are a couple of standouts.

Although it's a 15-minute drive northwest of Nanaimo's colorful harbor, the 62-room Inn on Long Lake (rates start at 239 Canadian dollars per night) enjoys a relaxing setting on a gorgeous lake with kayak and paddleboard rentals. Many of the spacious, modern rooms face the water.

If you'd prefer spending the night right in the heart of the city, the 15-story Coast Bastion Hotel (rates start at CA$215 per night) offers sweeping views of the neighboring Port of Nanaimo and the surrounding Salish Sea and mountains — try to book a room on a high floor for the best vistas. Amenities include a popular seasonally focused restaurant with harbor views and a well-equipped fitness center.

Part of the exclusive Relais & Chateaux association, the casually elegant Wickaninnish Inn (rates start at CA$620 per night) has one of the most alluring settings on the islands — during the winter months, the 75 cushy rooms are ideal for storm-watching, but it's spectacular here year-round. The resort's Pointe Restaurant serves artfully prepared fresh-caught seafood in an airy dining room with grand vistas of the sea. Treat yourself to some pampering in the full-service spa, and help yourself to the complimentary bike rentals.

A couple of miles south on a driftwood-strewn beach overlooking pristine Cox Bay, the Pacific Sands Beach Resort (rates start at CA$307 per night) features a mix of suites and beach houses with high ceilings, tall windows, gas fireplaces and top-of-the-line bedding and bath products. Soothe your soul in one of the beachfront wood-fired saunas, and savor delicious farm-to-table fare in the three restaurants.

Steps from downtown Tofino's inviting shops and restaurants, the sleek and contemporary Duffin Cove Oceanfront Lodging (rates start at CA$299 per night) offers both two-person studios with waterfront balconies and roomier A-frame cabins with pitched roofs and fully outfitted condos.

Related reading:

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• Where to go in 2024: The 16 best places to travel
• 6 real-life strategies you can use when your flight is canceled or delayed
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All eyes were on Yellen during China trip. People noticed she's good with chopsticks

U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen wrapped up a trip to China to mend bilateral ties, but Chinese citizens cared far more about what she ate — and how.

MICHEL MARTIN, HOST:

U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen wrapped up a trip to China this week. She had important issues to talk about, like working with China's leaders to avert a global financial crisis and warning them not to supply Russia's defense. But what a lot of people in China wanted to talk about was what Yellen had to eat. NPR's Emily Feng has more.

EMILY FENG, BYLINE: Among Chinese gourmands, the consensus is Yellen knows what's up with Chinese food. This week, she hit up an American-style brewery.

(SOUNDBITE OF ARCHIVED RECORDING)

UNIDENTIFIED PERSON #1: So you've got the IPA. I've got the lager. And I can taste the American hops.

UNIDENTIFIED PERSON #2: Yeah, yeah. Yeah.

FENG: A Cantonese restaurant in the Lao Chuan Ban canting in Beijing. The restaurant is a staple for anyone who loves the always-spicy-sometimes-sweet sophistication of Sichuan cuisine - and a favorite of this correspondent as well.

LI QIANG: (Speaking Chinese).

FENG: That's Chuan Ban chef Li Qiang talking to Chinese state media. And Chef Li says approvingly that Yellen ordered dishes like mapo tofu and twice-cooked pork that are full of authentic Sichuan flavor.

QIANG: (Speaking Chinese).

FENG: Chef Li says Yellen told him the food was very delicious and she'd be back again. This obsession with where Yellen eats on her China trips and how much it costs reflects just how much people in China love their food. It's also a sign of how closely U.S. and Chinese officials are being scrutinized in trying to balance a teetering relationship.

The verdict on Yellen is she's good with chopsticks and she's got a good appetite. During a trip last year to China, she caused a stir on both sides of the Pacific after frequenting a Yunnan cuisine place.

JANET YELLEN: There was a delicious mushroom dish. I was not aware that these mushrooms had hallucinogenic properties. I learned that later.

FENG: Mildly hallucinogenic if they're not cooked properly. But luckily, they were very well cooked. The anecdote does track with Yellen's reputation for being curious but prepared. Most of the time, Yellen has much weightier topics at hand, like trying to get China to open up its market more and not flood the world with its electric vehicles. But of course, it's way more fun to talk about what she eats.

Emily Feng, NPR News, Taipei, Taiwan.

(SOUNDBITE OF RODRIGO Y GABRIELA'S "TAMACUN")

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Kamala Harris, Traveling to Arizona, Will Slam Trump Over Abortion

The vice president is set to lean into a partywide attack on Donald Trump and fellow Republicans, who are newly on the defensive over the issue.

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By Nicholas Nehamas ,  Lisa Lerer and Reid J. Epstein

Vice President Kamala Harris will travel to Arizona on Friday to assail former President Donald J. Trump over abortion restrictions, with plans to blame him for bans in the state and across the country.

In her remarks at a rally in Tucson, Ms. Harris will lean into the Biden campaign’s new attack line on laws pushed by Republicans that have cut off abortion access for millions of American women: Donald Trump did this.

She is also planning a new way to hit the former president, arguing that a second Trump administration would enforce the Comstock Act, a rarely used federal law from 1873, to circumvent Congress and ban medication abortion nationwide.

“They want to use another law from the 1800s — the Comstock Act — to ban medication abortion in all 50 states,” Ms. Harris is expected to say in Tucson, according to Biden campaign aides. “A ban that would include states where abortion is currently legal.”

Medication abortions now account for the majority of abortions nationwide, so enforcement of the Comstock Act could have a significant impact on the availability of the procedure.

While the former president has never specifically mentioned the act publicly, some of his allies have begun sketching out proposals to enforce it through executive actions . The law, once considered a constitutional relic, prohibits the mailing of “obscene, lewd, or lascivious” materials and has become part of a high-profile lawsuit seeking to halt the availability of abortion pills.

This week, Arizona became the center of the national debate on reproductive rights after a ruling by the state’s top court upheld an 1864 law banning nearly all abortions. The decision gave Democrats around the country an opportunity to focus their races on abortion rights, a strategy that has led to unexpected victories for the party over the last two years. The Biden campaign has already released two new ads this week hammering Mr. Trump on abortion.

“The overturning of Roe was a seismic event,” Ms. Harris is expected to say in Tucson, according to a copy of her prepared remarks distributed by the Biden campaign. “And this ban in Arizona is one of the biggest aftershocks yet.”

Ms. Harris’s comments on Friday may be some of the most direct and extended attacks that she has made against Mr. Trump on the issue. While she has appeared frequently at events about abortion rights, she has often done so in her official capacity, limiting her ability to criticize Republicans. The event in Tucson, however, is a campaign rally, meaning Ms. Harris can speak more freely.

“We all must understand who is to blame,” her prepared remarks say. “It is the former president, Donald Trump. It is Donald Trump who, during his campaign in 2016, said women should be punished for seeking an abortion.”

The vice president’s trip to Arizona was planned before the ruling and was originally supposed to involve an official event on student debt. But even before the court ruling, Ms. Harris insisted that abortion rights become the focus instead and that the campaign take over, according to three Democratic officials familiar with the planning.

The timing could not have been better for the Biden campaign. On Monday, Mr. Trump released a video saying that abortion restrictions should be left up to the states. The next day, the Arizona Supreme Court upheld a prestatehood law banning nearly all abortions, without exceptions for rape and incest. (The law, which Mr. Trump has since criticized , has not yet gone into effect.)

Republicans have been left on the defensive, including Kari Lake, the Trump ally running for an open Senate seat in Arizona. Two years ago, when she was running for governor, Ms. Lake called the Civil War-era abortion ban “a great law.” But on Thursday, she released a five-minute video , saying that “this total ban on abortion” was “out of line with where the people of this state are.”

“I chose life,” said Ms. Lake, who has two children, of her own pregnancies. “But I’m not every woman. I want to make sure that every woman who finds herself pregnant has more choices so that she can make that choice that I made.”

Ms. Lake’s stark shift shows how much the politics of abortion have changed since Supreme Court justices appointed by Mr. Trump ruled in favor of a Mississippi law in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization and abolished the constitutional right to abortion.

“This is the first presidential election since Dobbs. And it is a massively important issue because it does affect every woman in some capacity. It just does,” said Stephanie Schriock, former president of Emily’s List, the powerful organization that seeks to elect Democratic women who support abortion rights. “It crosses people’s minds because women are dealing with this stuff all the time, particularly those of reproductive age, which is a pretty big swath of all of Gen Z and millennials.”

Nicholas Nehamas is a Times political reporter covering the re-election campaign of President Biden. More about Nicholas Nehamas

Lisa Lerer is a national political reporter for The Times, based in New York. She has covered American politics for nearly two decades. More about Lisa Lerer

Reid J. Epstein covers campaigns and elections from Washington. Before joining The Times in 2019, he worked at The Wall Street Journal, Politico, Newsday and The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. More about Reid J. Epstein

Scholz warns Iran as attacks on Israel overshadow China trip

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Exclusive: russia and china trade new copper disguised as scrap to skirt taxes, sanctions.

Russian Copper Company (RCC) and Chinese firms have avoided taxes and skirted the impact of Western sanctions by trading in new copper wire rod disguised as scrap, three sources familiar with the matter told Reuters.