Ultimate Guide to Victoria, BC
Bookmark this page for your future trip to Victoria, British Columbia Canada! 
Did you know Victoria is the capital city of BC? Located on Vancouver Island, Victoria is renowned for it’s breathtaking parliament buildings, lush gardens, historic architecture, world-class museums, and a thriving arts and culture scene. The warm and welcoming community makes you feel right at home. 
Whether you’re planning a trip soon or just dreaming of visiting one day, this guide will give you the inside scoop on what to see, do, and explore in Victoria. 
Table of Contents
STAY:
Fairmont Express
Fairmont Express – a luxury hotel built in 1908 and boasting a prime location overlooking Victoria’s Inner Harbour has been recognized as one of the world’s top 21 Iconic hotels! Fascinating fact: Queen Elizabeth II has stayed at this hotel every decade! Beautiful hotel in a great location, with shopping and restaurants just a short distance away!
Tip: Upgrade to Fairmont Gold for a luxurious stay! Enjoy continental breakfast, canapés, and sweet treats, plus access to top-shelf spirits and signature cocktails. Benefits include: upgraded accommodations, personalized service, exclusive Gold Lounge access, complimentary perks like valet parking and high-speed internet, and enhanced in-room amenities like a Nespresso machine and luxurious bath products. Enjoy complimentary access to Willow Stream Spa.
EAT AND DRINK:
Breakfast:
Fairmont Empress Gold Floor Lounge
Fairmont Empress Gold Floor Lounge – Indulge in the ultimate luxury experience at the Fairmont Empress Gold Floor Lounge, exclusively reserved for guests who have upgraded to Gold. Start your day with a complimentary gourmet breakfast buffet, served in an elegant and sophisticated setting. Their attentive staff provides exceptional service, ensuring your stay is unforgettable.
Nourish Kitchen & Cafe
Nourish Kitchen & Cafe, a healthy vegetable restaurant, serves simple, farm-fresh mains and snacks in a bright and airy Victorian house since 2010. Their menu features a diverse range of thoughtfully sourced whole foods, including quality meats and vegan options. They’re committed to sustainability, using local ingredients from small-scale suppliers to create seasonal dishes that support the community.
: 225 Quebec St, Victoria, BC V8V 1W2, Canada
: 9am-2pm daily, 5-9pm on Wed-Fri
: Nourish Kitchen & Cafe Menu
: @nourishvictoria
: Nourish
Fantastico bar-deli
Fantastico bar-deli, a beloved Canadian eatery, offers finely crafted coffee, an array of cured meats, cheeses, and accompaniments, full menu and an eclectic selection of craft ciders, sours, ales and wine. Special thanks to Greater Victoria Destination, who set up the community chat for us to meet up the Deaf locals. We had a fantastic time interacting with the deaf community!
: 398 Harbour Rd, Victoria, BC V9A 0B7, Canada
: 7:30am-5pm daily, happy hour at 3-4pm daily
: Fantastico bar-deli Menu
: @fantastico_bardeli
: Caffè Fantastico Specialty Coffees
Lunch:
Tea at the Empress
Tea at the Empress – For over 100 years, The Lobby Lounge at Fairmont Empress has been serving afternoon tea, a timeless tradition. The lounge itself is a beautiful blend of classic elegance and modern sophistication. Their afternoon tea menu features a delicious selection of sandwiches, scones, pastries, and desserts, all made with fresh, local ingredients. Come and experience this beloved tradition in a truly exceptional setting.
Tacofino
Tacofino, a popular compact taqueria, serving creative tacos and burritos in a simple, casual counter-serve setting. Great spot if you want to grab lunch quickly. The Steak Taco and Roast Chicken Burrito were delicious!
: 760 Pandora Ave, Victoria, BC V8W 1N9, Canada
: 11am-2pm daily
: @tacofinolovesyou
: Tacofino Victoria
Dinner:
Il Terrazzo Ristorante
Il Terrazzo Ristorante – the ultimate Italian dining experience! Savor mouthwatering wood-oven meats, pizzas, homemade pastas, and fresh seafood in a beautiful old town courtyard setting featuring brick fireplaces and candle lit ambiance. A must-try!
: 555 Johnson St, Victoria, BC V8W 1M2, Canada
: 4-9:15pm daily
: II Terrazzo Menu
The Ugly Duckling
The Ugly Duckling, a fine dining restaurant nestled in Chinatown, presents a prix fixe menu and a seasonally changing tasting menu showcasing handmade and locally sourced ingredients. Since its February 2023 opening, the restaurant has been recognized as one of the best new restaurants in Victoria! Reservations are highly recommended to ensure a seamless dining experience.
: 398 Harbour Rd, Victoria, BC V9A 0B7, Canada
: 7:30am-5pm daily, happy hour at 3-4pm daily
: The Ugly Duckling Menu
: @ugly.duckling.dining
Q at The Fairmont Empress
Q at The Fairmont Empress – The restaurant serves Pacific Northwest cuisine, with a focus on using local ingredients and sustainable seafood. The menu boasts a range of dishes, including appetizers, entrees, and desserts. Additionally, the restaurant features a bar with a curated selection of cocktails and an extensive wine list.
: 721 Government St, Victoria, BC V8W 1W5, Canada
: 6:30am-9:30pm daily
: Q at the Fairmont Empress Menu
: @qattheempress
: Q at The Empress
EXPLORE:
Beacon Hill Park
Beacon Hill Park is a stunning 182-acre oasis, established in 1882 and designated as a municipal heritage site. This natural treasure is home to a diverse range of endangered ecosystems, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers. The park boasts an array of attractions, including a charming petting zoo, playgrounds, sports fields, serene lakes, beautiful gardens, and a world-famous totem pole. Visitors can explore the park on foot, by bike, or take a leisurely horse-drawn carriage tour, immersing themselves in the natural beauty and rich history of this beloved park. Don’t miss out on the giant sleeping Moss Lady, a unique and fascinating feature of the park!
: 100 Cook St, Victoria, BC, Canada
: 8am-8pm daily
Chinatown
Chinatown boasts a rich history as the oldest Chinatown in Canada and the second oldest in North America, established in 1858 by Chinese merchants from San Francisco during the Fraser River Gold Rush. By the early 20th century, Victoria’s Chinatown had become the vibrant center of Chinese life in Canada, hosting over three dozen Chinese associations and organizations. Today, Chinatown is a beloved tourist and cultural destination, seamlessly blending traditional Chinese businesses with modern shops and eateries. Visitors can marvel at the iconic Gate of Harmonious Interest on Fisgard Street, built in 1981, and explore the transformed Fan Tan Alley, once a hub for gambling and opium dens but now home to unique shops and eateries. Victoria’s Chinatown was designated a National Historic Site of Canada in 1995.
Craigdarroch Castle
Craigdarroch Castle, a historic Victorian-era Scottish baronial mansion, was built by coal baron Robert Dunsmuir in the late 19th century. After his death, his sons completed the castle, which later served as a military hospital, college, offices, and conservatory. In 1979, it was transformed into a historical museum, now owned by the Craigdarroch Castle Historical Museum Society. Discover four floors of stunning stained glass windows, intricate woodwork, and authentic Victorian-era furnishings on a self-guided tour. It’s a must-see beauty!
: 1050 Joan Crescent, Victoria, BC V8S 3L5, Canada
: 10am-4pm daily except Mon-Tue, closed
: @craigdarrochcastles
: Craigdarroch Castle
Fisherman’s Wharf
Fisherman’s Wharf offers a variety of attractions and activities. Once an industrial fishing bay, Fisherman’s Wharf is now a thriving center for culture and tourism in Victoria. The area has been used by the First Nations Lekwungen people for centuries before the arrival of Europeans in Canada. Fisherman’s Wharf is home to approximately 30 floating tiny homes, each one unique and privately owned. Visitors can enjoy fresh seafood, including fish and chips, crab, and more, as well as a diverse range of shops and eateries. The wharf is a popular spot for whale watching, kayaking, and other marine adventures. Fisherman’s Wharf Park offers a playground, picnic areas, and stunning views of the harbor. The area is accessible by walking path, water taxi, and car, with parking available nearby.
: 1 Dallas Rd, Victoria, BC V8V 0B2, Canada
: 8am-10pm daily
: Fisherman's Wharf Victoria - Official
Government Street
Government Street is a major road running parallel to Douglas Street and passing through downtown Victoria. It’s a popular tourist destination, featuring iconic attractions like the British Columbia Parliament Buildings, Fairmont Empress hotel, Royal British Columbia Museum, and Inner Harbour. The street is lined with restaurants, hotels, and shops, making it a must-visit destination. With its rich history, cultural landmarks, and vibrant atmosphere, Government Street is an unmissable experience in Victoria.
Hatley Castle
Hatley Castle was built in 1908 as a private residence for Robert Dunsmuir, a wealthy coal baron. Perched on a 200-acre estate, the castle is now open to the public as Royal Roads University. This stunning castle has also been a popular Hollywood filming location for Deadpool, X-Men, Arrow, and many tv shows and movies! To step inside its storied walls, be sure to book a reservation in advance. You’ll be able to explore the castle’s breathtaking lush gardens, sunken garden maze, and picturesque lake with a rock water garden and gazebo.
: 2005 Sooke Rd, Victoria, BC V9B 5Y2, Canada
: 10am-4pm daily
: Hatley Castle
Inner Harbour
Inner Harbour, a picturesque and bustling waterfront area, is situated in the heart of downtown Victoria. A scenic promenade surrounds the harbour, offering stunning views of the Olympic Mountains, the Strait of Georgia, and the surrounding cityscape. The Inner Harbour is home to various boat tour operators offering whale watching, sightseeing, and fishing excursions, as well as a marina accommodating private boats and yachts. Throughout the year, it hosts numerous events and festivals, including the Victoria International JazzFest, the Dragon Boat Festival, and the Canada Day celebrations. Adjacent to popular attractions like the British Columbia Parliament Buildings, the Royal British Columbia Museum, and the Fairmont Empress hotel, the Inner Harbour also offers a range of dining and shopping options, from casual eateries to upscale establishments and unique boutiques. Easily accessible by car, public transportation, or on foot, the Inner Harbour has ample parking options and nearby bus stops.
Legislative Assembly of British Columbia
Legislative Assembly of British Columbia – Step into the Legislative Assembly of British Columbia, the province’s parliament, where 87 elected members (MLAs) meet in Victoria to make laws, approve government spending, and hold the government accountable. Led by Premier David Eby since 2020, the legislature is composed of the governing party, opposition, and independent members. MLAs represent constituents, participate in debates, and may hold cabinet positions. Take a self-guided tour inside the stunning Parliament Buildings, designed in a neo-Baroque style and featuring a gold-covered statue of Captain George Vancouver. Discover the building’s secrets, including seven provincial symbols, a haunted past, and controversial murals hidden behind false walls. Free guided tours are offered year-round, showcasing the beauty and history of this British Columbia granite and sandstone building, constructed between 1893 and 1897 on 12.5 acres of beautifully landscaped grounds.
: 501 Belleville St., Victoria, BC V8V 2L8, Canada
: 8:30am-4:30pm daily except Sat-Sun, closed
: @bclegislature
: Legislative Assembly of British Columbia
Lower Johnson Street
Lower Johnson Street – Experience the charm of Lower Johnson Street, a one-of-a-kind shopping district in Victoria, BC. Vibrant Victorian-style buildings line the street, housing an array of boutique and luxury shops, independent fashion boutiques, and unique shopping experiences.
Malahat Skywalk
Malahat Skywalk – Unveiling panoramic vistas and an elevated walkway that winds through the forest, Malahat Skywalk offers a captivating experience for all ages. Beyond the stunning views, excitement awaits with the TreeWalk, Spiral Tower, and Adventure Net. The Spiral Tower, reminiscent of NYC’s Vessel, allows you to ascend for breathtaking 360-degree views. Thrill-seekers can brave the Adventure Net, a 200-foot-high net walkway offering unparalleled views of the Saanich Inlet. Afterward, whoosh down the 20-meter spiral slide! Opened in 2021, Malahat Skywalk sits in the Cowichan Valley, boasting a 600-meter spiral walkway leading to a panoramic viewing platform, all 250 meters above sea level. Accessible for everyone (except pets, with the exception of certified guide and service dogs), ticket prices start at $21 CAD, with family options and shuttle services from Victoria available.
: 901 Trans-Canada Hwy, Malahat, BC V0R 2L0, Canada
: 9am-5pm daily, depends on the season
: @malahatskywalk
: Malahat Skywalk
UNWIND:
Hot Tub Boat Victoria
Hot Tub Boat Victoria offers a truly unique experience you won’t want to miss! We had a blast learning how to drive a hot tub boat and even got to wear a captain’s hat for some great photo ops. Relax and unwind as you soak in the hot tub while cruising the waters of the Inner Harbour, taking in the breathtaking views of the city skyline and surrounding islands. Hot tub boats can accommodate up to 6 people. Embark on a 1.5-hour cruise after a comprehensive 30-minute orientation. Relax and enjoy the amenities on board, including a Bluetooth speaker, one dry bag for your belongings, one bottle of water per person, compressed wood logs and kindling for the hot tub, life jackets, and safety equipment. For your convenience, you can store your belongings in the dockside storage, use the changing room space, and freshen up with the outdoor shower. Suitable for ages 12 and up, this unforgettable 2-hour experience (including the 30-minute orientation) promises to create lasting memories.
: 450 Swift St, Victoria, BC V8W 1S3, Canada
: 10am-8pm daily except Sat, closed at 5pm
: @hottubboatvictoria
: Hot Tub Boat Victoria
Wildwood Saunas
Wildwood Saunas, a sauna company based on south Vancouver Island, operates two locations in Metchosin and Shawnigan Lake. They provide a traditional Nordic-style sauna experience, combined with cold plunging, to promote holistic wellness and relaxation. Situated in natural environments, their saunas offer a tranquil setting for rejuvenation. They offer private and community booking options, as well as events and workshops, to enhance the sauna experience.
: 4185 Metchosin Rd, Metchosin, BC V9C 3Z5, Canada
: 11am-6pm daily (except Tuesday)
: @wildwoodsaunas
: Wildwood Saunas
Willow Stream Spa
Willow Stream Spa – The Willow Stream Spa at Fairmont Empress provides a serene environment, with a menu of treatments focused on discovering one’s inner energy. Inspired by the island, the spa utilizes natural, locally sourced ingredients and offers a signature Spa Ritual, featuring a Finnish sauna, steam room, and mineral pool. Guests 18 years and older can book appointments, and reservations are highly recommended. The spa provides a complimentary robe and slippers, as well as a locker for personal belongings. Please note that a 24-hour cancellation policy is in place.
What truly stole our hearts was the locals’ warmth and hospitality – they went above and beyond to make us feel welcome and even connected with us in sign language, creating a truly unforgettable experience! ♥️
Comment (1)
Useful traveling tips.
Thanks for sharing your experience.