Things To Do

Explore Downtown

There is so much to do downtown! We highly recommend starting with a stroll down Government Street, where you'll find amazing shopping, unique boutiques, and plenty of delicious places to eat. If you're looking for something more historical, make sure to check out the Inner Harbor—it's perfect for a walk with beautiful views of the waterfront. Use the link below to access the map for the City! Hop on the water taxi to explore even more! www.tourismvictoria.com

Our Favorite Food & Drink

Victoria has amazing spots to eat and drink! Breakfast: Shanzee’s Old Town – Best biscuits ever! Jam Cafe – Huge portions & cozy vibes. Coffee: Milano Victoria – Our favorite espresso spot! Hey Happy- fun spot with yummy food and the best pistachio cold foam. Lunch/Dinner/Bar: Block Kitchen: 11/10 highly recommend the cocktails. “Insane food” -Dennis The Bard and Banker – Lively pub with live music. Il Terrazzo – Cozy Italian, great pasta & pizza. Irish Times – Award-winning Irish pub. Finny’s Seafood – Fresh seafood with a view. The Drake – Chill vibe, great food. Sizzling Tandoor – Delicious Indian cuisine. The Commons & The Bistro – Locally sourced food. Sticky Wicket – Fun, casual, pool & darts. Canadian Must-Trys: Poutine – Fries with cheese curds and gravy. To die for. Caesar – A Canadian cocktail made with vodka, Clamato juice, and spices.

Vintage Shopping

There is such great vintage shopping in Victoria. We would recommend Lower Johnson Street and Market Square! This charming area in downtown Victoria is lined with quirky shops and boutiques offering lots of great vintage clothing. There’s no shortage of cool finds here. It's a perfect spot to spend a few hours if you're in the mood for some browsing!

Victoria’s Chinatown

Victoria is home to the oldest Chinatown in Canada, and it’s such a vibrant spot to explore! The area is filled with incredible food, from dumpling houses to traditional Chinese restaurants, come hungry. One of our favorite places to visit is Fan Tan Alley. It’s packed with history, unique shops, and even a small museum or two - It’s a fantastic spot for photos!

Fairmont Empress

The Empress Hotel is one of Victoria’s most iconic landmarks, and it’s absolutely worth a visit! This stunning historic hotel is not only beautiful to look at but also home to a few charming boutiques. We highly recommend High Tea at the Empress! It's a tradition that’s been part of Victoria’s history for over a century. It’s a great way to spend an afternoon, enjoying tea and treats in a beautiful, historic setting.

The Butchart Gardens

We absolutely love Butchart Gardens! With five stunning gardens spread across over 55 acres, it’s a must-see while you're in Victoria. These gardens have been a local treasure since 1904 and are home to over 900 different species of plants. Whether you’re strolling through the Rose Garden or taking in the beauty of the Sunken Garden, there's something magical around every corner. It’s the perfect spot to spend a peaceful afternoon surrounded by nature. Check out how to get there from Victoria: https://www.butchartgardens.com/how-to-get-here/

Parliament Building

The British Columbia Legislative Building is a must-see when visiting Victoria. Its a stunning landmark, dating back to 1898 it's the seat of British Columbia’s government. We recommend taking a tour of the building—self-guided options are available, and it’s a great way to learn more about its history. Even if you don’t have time for a tour, the grounds are beautiful and has great photo opportunities.

Haunted Victoria - Ghost Tours

Victoria is known as one of the most haunted cities in Canada, and its comes with plenty of ghost stories! If you’re up for a spooky adventure, we highly recommend joining a ghost walk. These guided tours take you through the city’s historic streets, sharing tales of haunted landmarks, eerie encounters, and Victoria’s darker past. It’s a fun and unique way to explore the city at night and learn a lot about the history! Stephanie's (Charlie's Mom) favorite is Ghostly Walks - Walking Tours and highly recommends!!

Fisherman's Wharf Park

Fisherman’s Wharf is a laid-back spot just a short walk from downtown. It’s home to colorful floating homes, seafood restaurants, and small shops. You can even catch some harbor seals hanging out by the docks. It’s a nice place to wander, grab a bite, and enjoy the views of the harbor. If you’re in the area, it’s definitely worth checking out for a relaxed afternoon.

Royal BC Museum

Cold Plunge and Hot Tubs

For a relaxing escape, check out HAVN—a unique wellness experience featuring Scandinavian-inspired saunas and outdoor hot tubs. Located just in the Inner Harbor of Victoria, it’s the perfect place to unwind and enjoy nature while recharging.

Whale Watching

One of the most unforgettable experiences in Victoria is going whale watching! September is a fantastic month to go as it is prime time to orcas, humpback whales, and more. Tours depart from Victoria’s Inner Harbor—just a short walk from downtown—and give you the chance to see whales up close while offering great views of the mountains. If you’ve never been whale watching, this is the perfect opportunity.

Tofino, BC

Located about 4 hours northwest of Victoria, Tofino is one of the hidden gems of the West Coast. Known for its world-class surf breaks and rugged coastal beauty, Tofino is the perfect place for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re into surfing, hiking or camping we recommend checking it out! If you’re up for a bit of adventure, Tofino also offers great camping spots, making it a fantastic add-on to your trip. It’s a beautiful escape into nature and a great way to experience British Columbia.