Simply relaxing and soaking up the spectacular views that Victoria is so renowned for can make for a great time. But if you plan to visit, you’ll want to put at least a few things to do on your itinerary. For fun in Victoria, just like most cities, you’ll be presented with so many choices it can almost feel overwhelming. So, how to decide which to fit in when you don’t have the luxury of endless time?
We’ve rounded up our favorite things to do in Victoria based on a variety of interests with something for everyone. From foodies and shopping enthusiasts to outdoor adventurers and family fun, whatever inspires, you’ll find it here:
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Food & Drink
You can’t have fun in Victoria when hunger pangs take over. The perfect trip will also include some of the top food and drink experiences. We’ve provided some great British-focused options here, including classics like afternoon tea at the Fairmont Express and fish ‘n’ chips at Red Fish Blue Fish. But you’ll also want to consider other options, from outstanding restaurants and tea shops to distillery tastings and food tours.
Aura Waterfront Restaurant + Patio
The Aura Waterfront Restaurant is located at the Inn at Laurel Point, one of our favorite places to stay in Victoria. It was a multi-award winner at YAM magazine’s Best Restaurant Awards 2024, offering shareable plates featuring farm-to-table ingredients and international flavors. Dishes can be enjoyed with a well-curated craft beer, wine, and cocktail list, and a stunning Inner Harbour view. As YAM notes, every dessert is a masterpiece, like the dulce de leche and lavender picked right from the hotel’s gardens.
INSIDER TIP: Aura’s Afternoon Tea is a fantastic and creative take on traditional tea, complete with a postcard-perfect view.
Block Kitchen and Bar Victoria
Expanding from the Block Kitchen + Bar in Banff, Alberta, now visitors and locals alike can enjoy the highly acclaimed offerings right here in the heart of the city. Block Kitchen + Bar Victoria offers a menu of eclectic global fare with Asian influences along with a vast selection of wine, local beers, and creative cocktails. Some of the signature dishes include Korean fried chicken, the Japabao Dog (double-smoked farmer’s sausage with Japanese mayo, house kimchi, takoyaki sauce, and bonito shavings), and the Ahi Tuna Yaki Onigiri. The matcha cheesecake with Yuzu honey sauce is worth saving room for!
Downtown Food & City Tour
If you want to sample a wide range of tasty local eats, join the Downtown Food & City Tour. It’s the perfect way to discover a new favorite that’s off the beaten tourist path. You’ll enjoy 10 samples of food and drink at seven local foodie spots while also enjoying a locally-led tour of the historic downtown. It includes everything from cheeses and Korean corn dogs to chocolate, pastries, macarons, and wine.
Silk Road
While everyone should enjoy the afternoon tea hosted at the Fairmont Empress at least once, it’s also worth heading to the Silk Road Tea Store. It’s an ideal place to pick up a gift for a tea lover or something for yourself with teas that are made from exceptionally fresh botanicals produced using organic methods for the best possible flavor and even higher antioxidant levels. A line of popular skin and body care products infused with tea is sold here too.
Sheringham Distillery
Sheringham is renowned for its gin, particularly the flagship Seaside Gin. It was honored with the World’s Best Contemporary Gin award, made with winged kelp that’s harvested nearby featuring notes of the ocean air, Nootka rose, and the Pacific Northwest rainforest. There are few better ways to savor the region’s flavors. But a variety of other spirits are made here too. That includes whiskey, vodkas, and liqueurs like the Sirene Chocolate Liqueur. Yum! The chocolate liqueur is not only great in a mudslide or chocolate martini but you can use it in cakes, truffles, sauces, and more for added sweetness and depth.
Complimentary tastings are available in the tasting room that includes both signature spirits and newly introduced offerings. You can also get a glimpse of the distillery while learning more about the distillation process and spirits from the friendly, knowledgeable staff.
History & Sightseeing
From Victoria’s heritage homes and museums to First Nations’ totem poles there are many ways to explore the area’s past, including its rich indigenous history. In fact, Victoria is based on the traditional territory of the Lekwungen-speaking peoples of the Songhees Nation and Xwsepsum Nation, as well as the W̱SÁNEĆ peoples.
Royal BC Museum & Thunderbird Park
Often named the best museum in the country, the Royal BC Museum is one of the top attractions in Victoria and the only natural and human history museum in British Columbia. Focused on the land and people, the vast collection includes some seven million artifacts. You’ll find exhibits on everything from the province’s coastal and rainforest ecosystems in the Natural History gallery to a genuine frontier town in the Modern History gallery. In the First Peoples Galleries, there are thousands of objects, photographs, films, and more that showcase BC’s many First Nations cultures, representing up to 10,000 years of history.
Point Ellice House Museum & Gardens
The Point Ellice House Museum sits within one of the oldest residences in Victoria. Constructed in the mid-1800s, it holds the largest collection of Victorian-era items in Canada. Once owned by the O’Reillys, it contains more than 12,000 artifacts that were sold to the province by the couple. They left behind almost everything, from a harp and kitchen utensils to clothing, armoires, board games, and much more, covering the years from 1890 through 1920. The grounds, with nature trails and gardens, can also be explored.
Historic Castles
There are two historic castles that can be visited, including Craigdarroch which was constructed between 1887 and 180 by coal baron Robert Dunsmuir. Its 39 rooms are jam-packed with furnishings from the Victorian era along with vintage photographs and magnificent stained glass. By climbing the nearly 90 steps of the grand staircase, you can also take in one of the most magnificent views in the city.
James Dunsmuir, Robert’s son, commissioned the build of Hatley Castle as a retirement residence. The late Gothic Revival castle is now an administrative center for Royal Roads University. Look familiar? That might be because it’s been featured on TV and in films, including “Deadpool.” There’s also a museum telling the story of the site from the time it was a Coast Salish Indian burial site through today. Located in Hatley Park, there are over nine miles of forested trails and beautiful gardens to explore as well.
Naval and Military History
At Fort Rodd Hill you can explore the oldest lighthouse on the west coast of Canada. The park also has a rocky beach and spectacular ocean views. But the reason to come for history enthusiasts is the century-old gun batteries, bunkers, and a historic coastal artillery fort. Built in the late 19th-century, it was used until the end of World War II.
Chinatown National Historic Site
Victoria’s Chinatown is the oldest Chinatown in Canada and North America’s second oldest after only San Francisco. It was birthed in the mid-1800s when the influx of miners arrived from California to what is now British Columbia. Capture the traditional paifang arch, a popular landmark, before strolling the vibrant streets.
Once in Chinatown, gaze up at the colorful lanterns hung and enjoy the aroma of pan-fired dumplings in the air. While soaking up the historical character, you’ll find noodle bars, herbalists, Canada’s oldest Chinese temple, and the country’s narrowest street, Fan Tan Ally tucked among the modern shops, galleries, and cafes.
Shopping
From boutiques and vintage shops to bookstores, fashion outlets, and lively markets, Victoria is a shopper’s dream.
Public Markets
Victoria Public Market at the Hudson
Located in a historic building constructed between 1913 and 1921 by the Hudson’s Bay Company, the Victoria Public Market hosts a wide range of outstanding eateries, retailers, and a highly acclaimed farmers market.
Bastion Square Public Market
Bastion Square is an open-air public market held Thursdays through Sundays between May and September, stretching from the waterfront to Government Street downtown.
Bay Centre
The Bay Centre spans a full city block, providing an ideal place to pick up a gift or something for yourself with more than 90 venues for shopping ’til you drop. It offers a mix of clothing and fashion accessory stores, culinary shops, homeware, and more. And, even better? Nearly 35 are locally owned. That includes Be MyGift Memories and The Tuscan Kitchen with handmade Italian ceramics.
We also love Inka’s World. It offers high-quality handmade products created by native artisan families in the small town of Otavalo in the Ecuadoran Andes. The alpaca and wool blankets are wonderful to cuddle up under on a chilly Victoria morning!
Vintage Stores
There is a wealth of options for those who enjoy searching for treasures, including vintage gems. Johnson Street is renowned for its secondhand shops like Second Degree Vintage, Victoria Vintage, and Flavour Upstairs. You’ll find many others throughout the city with just a few of the other highlights including Csinos Vintage and the Cheers Vintage Collective.
Munro’s Books
If you like books, you won’t want to miss Munro’s, opened by Nobel Prize winner Alice Munro and her husband Jim in 1963. It sits within a neoclassical former bank building and was once named among the top 10 bookstores in the world by National Geographic.
Still Life
For quality fashion trends, Still Life is the place to go. One of the city’s highest rated boutiques, it’s nestled in the heart of the shopping district on Government Street, just off Johnson. It features clothing for men and women from smaller international fashion designers along with skin and hair care items.
Outdoors & Adventure
Victoria offers all sorts of outdoor adventures from gentle pursuits to big thrills, often while immersed in the area’s stunning natural beauty.
Whale Watching
Many visitors come to Victoria for the whale watching. You’ll have the chance to spot Bigg’s orcas, minke and humpback whales, bald eagles, harbour seals, and much more. And, if you’re looking to save, you can book an overnight getaway from Seattle that includes Eagle Wings’ whale watching tour.
Ziplining
Thrill-seekers might join the AdrenaLINE Zipline Adventure Tour. Look forward to panoramic views of the lush rainforest and the Sooke Basin, just minutes from the B.C. capital. Fully guided, it includes a short ride in an ATV, eight ziplines, and a suspension bridge. Plus, if you add this experience when booking your Clipper Vacations package you’ll get round-trip shuttle service from downtown Victoria and a free second ride.
Kayaking
With so much water surrounding Victoria, there is a wide range of options for kayaking. That includes a leisurely paddle around the Inner Harbour and the calm, protected waters of the Gorge. Or join a more challenging sea kayaking excursion along the coast. Ocean River Adventures offers both rentals for independent paddles and tours that include expert local insight. Watch for local wildlife along the way, from harbour seals and porpoises to sea lions, otters, and if you’re very lucky, whales.
Malahat Skywalk
Immerse yourself into the beauty of the PNW from new heights. Credit: Malahat Skywalk
The Malahat Skywalk provides big rewards for an easy stroll. You’ll wind along the just under .4-mile Tree Walk through the arbutus forest before encountering a breathtaking spiral ramp. Continue on for access to the 360-degree lookout showcasing the Salish Sea, Saanich Peninsula, Finlayson Arm, Mount Baker in the Cascades, and the dramatic peaks of the Olympic Mountains.
Hiking and Cycling
There are many scenic trails in and near Victoria whether you’re looking to pedal or explore on foot. One of our favorite urban routes starts at Ogden Point where you’ll see cruise ships between the spring and fall. Next to it is the breakwater, a popular place to walk and enjoy glorious sunset views. Continue on Dallas Road to Fisherman’s Wharf, ideal for a fish ‘n chip lunch, before coming to a full view of the Inner Harbour with its float planes, water taxis, ferries, and other boats.
Or, head out of town to the Coast Trail in East Sooke Regional Park. It offers an approximately 6.2-mile trek along the rugged coastline, revealing ocean views throughout. Avid cyclists might take the Lochside Regional Trail, a picturesque route traveling just over 30 miles round trip between Victoria and Sidney.
If you’re up for a guided tour, join a hiking adventure with Rainforest Tours to explore the coastal rainforest. A gourmet lunch, interpretive guide, and transportation to and from the hike are all included.
Wellness & Relaxation
Victoria is also an ideal destination for anyone who wants to enhance wellness and enjoy blissful relaxation. Clipper Vacations even offers a special Vancouver Island Spas & Gardens package that’s sure to fit the bill!
Willow Spring Spa
We highly recommend a stay at The Fairmont Empress. But, the good news is that you don’t have to be a guest to enjoy the pampering spa. The Willow Stream Spa offers everything from stress-melting massages, body scrubs, facials, and detox wraps to a mineral bath whirlpool, steam room, and Finnish-style sauna.
Free Spirit Spa
Free Spirit Spa handmakes its own skincare products right downtown, all free of synthetic chemicals and preservatives. While it’s an ideal place to shop, you can also enjoy luxury spa treatments. A mix of herbs, flowers, and essential oils are used in decadent massages, facials, body treatments, and more. A visit is virtually guaranteed to leave you feeling like Jell-O!
Parkside Victoria Spa
Located at the Parkside Hotel & Spa, Parkside Victoria offers a variety of treatment options designed to relax and rejuvenate, including facials, body treatments, and massages. Options for couples and pedicures are available too.
RITUAL Nordic Spa
Nordic countries are renowned for their love of saunas. You can experience some of their passion for wellness right in downtown Victoria at the RITUAL Nordic Spa. A modern take on the classic Finnish sauna, it’s the perfect place to disconnect from your smartphone. There are a variety of saunas, including infrared, traditional cedar, and basswood. Plus, there’s a menu of massages, a cold plunge pool, eucalyptus steam room, a salt therapy lounge, and Nordic bucket showers.
Havn Saunas
We don’t know about you, but after the stress of the holidays or any rough patch, there are few things better than a little hydrotherapy. At Havn Saunas you can enjoy many potential benefits of sauna bathing from promoting relaxation to improving skin tone. The three-hour experience includes the saunas along with hot and cold pools, all designed to enhance wellness right at the edge of the Inner Harbour.
Arts & Culture
Victoria offers a diverse and intriguing arts and culture scene that can be experienced through everything from museums, galleries and art centers to theaters and even its renowned gardens like Butchart.
Art Gallery of Greater Victoria
The Art Gallery of Greater Victoria is an art museum showcasing a diverse, nearly 20,000 piece collection from Canada, Asia, and beyond. It sits within the historic 1889 Spencer Mansion and features seven modern galleries and picturesqueful gardens with a Japanese Shinto shrine.
McPherson Playhouse
Locally known as “The Mac,” the McPherson Playhouse is a historic theater that originally opened as the Pantages Theatre in 1914. Fifty years later, it was renamed after Thomas Shanks McPherson who had gifted it, and a substantial sum for renovations, to the city. Reconstructed in 1965, the neo-Baroque auditorium combined with outstanding acoustics provides an idyllic venue for plays and other events.
Belfry Theatre
A nonprofit arts complex, the Belfry Theatre is located in the ecletic Fernwood neighborhood. Housed in a spectacularly restored 19th-century church, it’s particularly notable for its international and contemporary Canadian productions.
Butchart Gardens
The Butchart Gardens is sure to please a variety of interests. It could be included in nearly every category as a place where culture, history, and nature all come together. Often featured in rankings of the world’s most beautiful gardens, it’s spread over 55 acres, providing nearly endless photo ops while strolling through. Welcoming visitors since 1904, the Sunken Garden is one of the most iconic features. Plus, there are other attractions beyond the gorgeous seasonal blooms, like afternoon tea at The Dining Room restaurant.
Festivals
Festivals can be enjoyed throughout the year in Victoria. Events include parades, outdoor concerts, sailing races, films, food, and more. Some of our favorites include the Victoria Day offerings in mid-May. A parade and the Festival of Performances at the Parliament Buildings are both part of the fun. The Swiftsure International Yacht Race is another favorite, taking place annually on the last weekend of May, while the popular Victoria Pride Festival is hosted over late June and early July.
Victoria’s numerous music festivals include summer’s TD Victoria International Jazz Fest and Music by the Sea. Beach Food Days is a tasty way to enjoy the offerings from a wide range of food trucks on weekends from late May through early September at Ocean Boulevard in Colwood.
Family Fun
If you’re traveling to Victoria with the family, the Malahat Skywalk and the Royal BC Museum & Thunderbird Park are just a few of the top attractions kids and adults alike are sure to enjoy. You’ll find many other options, including these.
Miniature World
Displaying more than 80 highly detailed fictional and historical scenes, Miniature World is located near the Fairmont Empress. The miniature dioramas even include sounds that bring each world to life. They’re all themed, such as King Arthur’s Camelot, Space 2201, Frontierland, Fantasyland, and Circus World. Highlights include two of the world’s largest dollhouses, the smallest operational sawmill on the planet, and one of the longest model railways.
Five Star Whale Watching
Whale watching is one of the most popular things to do for visitors of all types. A trip out with Five Star Whale Watching is perfect for families with kids as it’s enjoyed on an expedition catamaran. These are designed for optimal stability when the water is rough, ensuring a safe, dry, and more enjoyable experience for everyone in the family, even babies! And, with a 98 percent success rate of finding whales during the peak season (May through September), you can look forward to watching everything from humpbacks to orcas.
Bike rentals from Pedaler
Biking is a great way for families to discover some of the most iconic landmarks and breathtaking scenery in Victoria. The Pedaler offers rentals, including bikes for children’s and children’s trailers making it possible for all ages to enjoy. Or, join one of its bike tours. You’ll be guided to everything from the tallest freestanding totem pole on the planet to castles, favorite local spots, and through some of the narrowest streets in North America. Tours also include the option to upgrade to an e-bike for pedaling power that doesn’t require a lot of effort.
Carousel at The Butchart Gardens
The Butchart Gardens is a great place for a stroll as one of the world’s top display gardens, but there’s also a highlight for family fun: the carousel. The Rose Carousel features 30 hand-carved wooden animals and two chariots, providing fun for adults and children alike. Not only that, but part of your admission fee goes toward helping charities for children.
Pickle Boat Water ‘Ballet’
Water Ballet in Victoria’s Inner Harbour, photo credit: Victoria Harbour Ferry
If you’re in Victoria during the warmer months, on Sundays between May and September, and weekends during July and August, you can’t miss the Pickle Boat Water “Ballet.” The fun and colorful little boats put on a display that mesmerizes everyone from tiny tots to grandparents with their magnificently choreographed sequences.