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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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Little did I know in 2012 when I started Victoria Travel, how successful it would become. This has been down to the fantastic family of passengers who regularly travel with me. Over the years we have had such fun, many laughs and visited and seen so many amazing places. But sadly, all good things must come to an end and I have now decided to close the business and retire. Although I have had such fun and enjoyment running the company, I feel the time is right to move on, as there are so many things I want to do, which I don’t have the time to do now. So, while I’m still fit and able, I plan to retire in January 2024.

The thing I am most proud of while running Victoria Travel, is the lifelong friendships which have formed between the passengers and I very much hope these will continue long into the future.

I would like to thank each and every one of the Victoria Family of passengers for your support, friendship and loyalty over the last 13 years. It has been such fun and I will miss you all and as soon as I get settled in my new venture, I will be inviting you all to Ireland. But not all at once please!!!

Thank you all once again and may I wish you a Health, Prosperous and Happy New Year.

Kind regards

PS. Check out the pics of the completed motor-home  on the motor-home  page!

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34 Incredible Things to Do In Victoria, BC (Our 2024 Guide)

Written By: Sara Oprasic

Published On: April 13, 2024

Set at the end of the mostly wild Vancouver Island, Victoria is a wonderful city on Canada’s west coast. Known for the abundance of outdoor activities and stunning Victorian architecture, it’s a place where colonial history is intertwined with indigenous culture. I lived in Victoria, BC, for a year and got to explore all the great things that it has to offer. These are all my personal recommendations.

Attend high tea for brunch and then head to Chinatown for dinner while stopping by the harbor to watch seals and gigantic cruisers. Victoria is a city that can offer something to everyone because it has it all, from excellent art galleries to thrilling ziplines and hiking trails. 

Whether you’re in town for a day or a week, you won’t struggle to fill your itinerary with fun activities. With my insider knowledge, I compiled this guide of the top things to do in Victoria BC that will help you put together the best itinerary! 

Best Things To Do In Victoria BC

Victoria BC is known for its expansive botanical gardens, whale-watching tours, and vast parks. The majority of the city’s best attractions are outdoors, making it a top destination for travelers who love exploring off the beaten path. 

But don’t let that fool you; Victoria also offers an endless amount of things to do indoors, including a haunted manor with a pinball machine and some of the best museums in British Columbia. 

Best of Victoria BC Quick Guide

• Must See: Chinatown, Royal BC Museum, Craigdarroch Castle, Beacon Hill Park, Parliament Buildings,  Afternoon Tea
• Where To Stay: Ocean Island Inn , Fairmont Empress , The Oak Bay Beach Hotel
• Fun To Do: Whale Watching, Zipline Tours, Mount Douglas, Boat Tours, Kayaking
• Day Trips: Fort Rodd Hill, Thetis Lake Park, Malahat SkyWalk 
• Must-Try Foods: Wild Salmon, Dungeness Crab, Bannock Bread, Chinese food 

1. Guided Walking Tour of Victoria

Victoria is a gorgeous city with many stunning buildings. Of course, if it’s your first visit, you won’t be familiar with the purpose of many of those buildings, and you might miss out on some gems that are open for visitors. 

Arrange a guided tour with a local, and you’ll not only be taken to all the best spots in the city but also learn the history behind some of its best architectural gems. Most walking tours of Victoria cover the city’s best neighborhoods and streets, including the famous Government Street and Fan Tan Alley. 

My favorite walking tours of Victoria also allow you to discover the city’s culinary scene. Strolling around the city will burn quite a few calories, and what better way to make up for them than to indulge in Victoria’s specialties in its best restaurants? 

Practical Information 

Walking tours of Victoria usually take 2-3 hours and cost $60-100 per participant. 

2. Royal BC Museum 

The Royal BC Museum is Victoria’s best and most popular museum. If you have time to visit only one museum or gallery while you’re in the city, make it this one. It has three main galleries: Natural History, the First Peoples Gallery, and Becoming BC. 

Come here to learn about the indigenous people of British Columbia, as well as about the state’s general history and how it evolved over the years. Younger visitors are more likely to enjoy the Natural History gallery, which features dinosaur skeletons and models of various animals. 

Plan to spend at least a couple of hours at this museum, and that’s if you’re going to rush through the place. If you take your time with each exhibit, the visit can easily last 3-4 hours. Also, I must mention that the museum has a nice IMAX theater, where you can attend screenings of nature documentaries as well as blockbuster films. 

Practical Information

The Royal BC Museum is open daily from 10 AM to 5 PM. Admission is $18 for adults, and attending IMAX screenings is an extra $12. 

3. Tour The Fantastic Craigdarroch Castle

Craigdarroch Castle is one of the prettiest Victorian buildings in Victoria and a very popular historical landmark. It was originally built by Robert Dunsmuir, a coal magnate, during the late 19th century. 

Visit the castle and go on a guided tour of the premises to see opulent period furniture, beautiful decorations, and lovely stained-glass windows. The building is magnificent both inside and out, and it’s one of the best locations for architecture tours in Victoria. 

The castle is situated in Rockland, roughly a 30-minute walk (or 10-minute bike ride) from Downtown Victoria. 

Craigdarroch Castle is open for tours Wednesday through Sunday, from 10 AM to 4 PM. Guided tours are $20.60 for adults, and tickets can be bought online or at the entrance. 

4. Rent A Bicycle

Victoria BC is known as Canada’s cycling capital, and it’s one of the most bike-friendly cities in the Pacific Northwest. Bike rentals are available throughout the town, and many accommodations offer them to their guests. 

Cycling around Victoria is not just great for getting around the town quickly for very little money, but also a super way of immersing yourself in the local culture. Not to mention that it’s usually faster than traveling by bus, plus you won’t have to worry about rush hour traffic. 

If you’re in great physical condition, you might even be able to bike to attractions far outside the city center, and you’d get to see some wonderful scenery along the way. And if spending several hours on a bicycle isn’t all that appealing, consider it for a quick tour of Downtown Victoria at least. 

Bikes are available for hire in multiple spots throughout the town. The average price is $40 per day, although you can get a better rate when you rent a bike for a longer period. 

5. Art Gallery of Greater Victoria

The Art Gallery of Greater Victoria is a wonderful mid-size gallery housed in two distinct spaces. One part of the gallery is in a new, modern building, while the other sits inside the historic Spencer Mansion. 

Come to this gallery to admire a sizeable collection of gorgeous art, including pieces from Canada and Asia. In fact, the gallery’s garden even has a Shinto shrine that all visitors are encouraged to see. It’s one of Victoria’s best attractions for lovers of art, history, and architecture. 

The Art Gallery of Greater Victoria is open from 10 AM to 5 PM and charges a $15 entrance fee. However, admission is free on the first Sunday of the month and on Thursday evenings from 5 PM to 9 PM. 

6. Tour The Parliament Buildings 

The Legislative Assembly of British Columbia is hands down one of the most stunning government buildings I’ve seen in my entire life. For me, the buildings look like they were plucked from a European city and transported to Victoria. 

But they weren’t; the Parliament Buildings were constructed in neo-Baroque style at the end of the 19th century right here. The entire park between Government Street and Menzies Street is a fabulous place where you can enjoy some of the best architecture in the city. 

See the fountains, the impeccable landscaping, and all the different memorial statues. You can even join a guided tour to see the impressive interior of these magnificent buildings. It will cost you nothing, and it will undoubtedly enrich your experience in Victoria, BC. 

Free guided tours of the Parliament Buildings in Victoria take place several times throughout the day, between 8:30 AM and 4:30 PM. 

7. Picnic at Beacon Hill Park

Beacon Hill is a sprawling public park separating James Bay from Fairfield. It is easily accessible from central Victoria and one of the best destinations in the city if you want to spend a couple of hours in nature but aren’t quite in the mood for an excursion that includes traveling far outside the city center. 

Featuring ponds, walking trails, and landscaped gardens, Beacon Hill is an oasis amid this concrete jungle. It has everything from totems to peacocks, and coming here is a must for understanding why Victoria and British Columbia, in general, are known for fantastic natural landmarks and outdoor activities. 

Beacon Hill Park is open daily from 8 AM to 8 PM. Entrance to the park is free of charge. 

8. Walk Through Historic Fan Tan Alley

Fan Tan Alley is a historic alleyway in Victoria’s Chinatown district. It is lined with restaurants and boutique shops on either side, which offer some excellent shopping and dining in the city. Here, you’ll find shops that sell everything from Matcha tea to crystals and incense, so it’s definitely a place you should check out if you’re looking for unique souvenirs to buy in Victoria. 

However, I will say that this experience is entirely skippable if you’re even a little bit claustrophobic. The alley is so narrow that passing next to someone isn’t always possible, and the buildings are tall enough to cause discomfort to people who don’t like confined spaces.

But if you can navigate the tight alley without a sense of dread, it will be a top experience. The red and green storefronts are charming and go wonderfully with the exposed red brick of the buildings. The entrance to the Chinese Canadian Museum is here, and although it is small, the exhibit is interesting and worth supporting.  

Fan Tan Alley is free to access at any time, but most shops are closed until 5 p.m. 

9. Visit Fort Rodd Hill

Fort Rodd Hill is a National Historic Site best known for the Fisgard Lighthouse. The oceanfront park offers walking trails with views of old military structures, but it’s the Fisgaard lighthouse that attracts the bulk of visitors to the site. 

Climb the stairs to the top of the lighthouse to experience fantastic panoramic vistas. On clear sunny days, the view stretches all the way to the Olympic Mountains in Washington on one side and the San Juan Islands on the other. 

Fort Rodd Hill is accessible from 10 AM to 4 PM, with an admission fee of $9.

10. Hike To The Top of Mount Douglas 

Mount Douglas is a hill north of Victoria City and a great place to come for 360° panoramic views. You can cycle to the foot of the hill in about 50 minutes from central Victoria, and from there, it’s just a 30-minute hike to the lookout point at the top. There’s even a parking lot at the summit, so you can just drive up to the scenic point if you’re not in the mood for an uphill walk.  

The vista from the lookout point is one of the best in Victoria BC and it stretches into the United States. Also, multiple hiking trails are available at Mount Douglas, and you could spend a couple of hours roaming exploring the area, and marveling at the nice views. But if you’re in a rush, it’s good to know that this activity is doable in about an hour from downtown Victoria. 

Mount Douglas Park is open for visitors from 12 PM to 8 PM. Entrance to the area is free of charge, and parking at the top is also free but very limited. 

11. Historic Tours at Hatley Castle

Hatley Castle is situated in Greater Victoria, roughly a 20-minute drive (or 50-minute bike ride) from the city center. It is absolutely worth the hassle it takes to get there because the place is phenomenal. The early 20th-century castle was previously used as a residence and a naval training site and nowadays is a historic park. 

Can you imagine that people actually lived in this fantastic mansion? Even today, parts of it are used as office space and to hold classes, so you can’t just walk inside whenever you like. Visitors must sign up for guided tours to explore the interior of the mansion, but the formal gardens are accessible for free throughout the day. 

Guided tours of Hatley Castle are available upon reservation and are $22 per participant. The gardens are open from 10 AM to dusk, and access is free of charge. 

12. Swimming At Thetis Lake Regional Park

Thetis Lake Regional Park is the first nature sanctuary in Canada known for hiking trails and beaches on the lakeshore. Come here in the summer to relax in the unspoiled nature of British Columbia and enjoy some fantastic panoramic views. 

It’s a 15-minute drive from Victoria and an excellent place to come if you want to escape the crowds of the urban jungle. Pack a food basket and bring a blanket so you can set up a picnic with panoramic views of the lake after a day full of hiking and swimming. Thetis Lake Regional Park is a great destination for nature lovers in Victoria who want to explore beyond the city streets.  

Thetis Lake Regional Park is accessible at any time. There is no admission fee, but there is a parking fee of $2.25 per day. 

13. Bike Along The Galloping Goose Trail

This fun activity is only for the most avid hikers and mountain bikers, so skip it if you have zero interest in riding a mountain bike for 50+ miles. But if that sounds fun, the Galloping Goose Trail might just be the top Victoria activity for you! 

The trail follows an old railway line for roughly 55 miles from Victoria to Sooke. It’s 55 miles for the out-and-back journey, so you can cover this trail and be back in town for dinner if you’re fast enough on a mountain bike. 

This historic trail passes through urban and rural areas, as well as wilderness. You can follow the entire trail on a bike, or hike just a part of it. You can even choose to ride horses along the more rural sections of the trail, which is as much fun as it sounds. 

The Galloping Goose Trail is 55 miles for the return journey. This MTB route is recommended only for experienced mountain bikers in excellent physical conditions, as it takes roughly 5 hours to complete. 

14. Walk To The Breakwater Lighthouse 

The Breakwater Lighthouse sits at the end of a long pedestrian pathway that extends into the sea. As you stroll from James Bay to the lighthouse, you’ll get a good view of all the cruise ships and ferries that depart Victoria’s inner harbor. The walking path offers a good view of the city’s marine traffic, and it’s particularly enjoyable on warm, sunny days. 

The lighthouse at the end of the pathway dates back to 1916, and it’s surprisingly big. It doesn’t look that big from the distance, but the closer you get to it the more you’re impressed by its size. 

One thing to note is that it’s possible to walk down the Breakwater and the Lower Breakwater. I recommend you stick to the regular walking path that is fenced off. The lower path features no fence, and the concrete blocks are often very slippery. 

The Breakwater walking path is accessible at any time of day or night, free of charge. 

15. Wander Around Victoria Butterfly Gardens

Situated roughly a 20-minute drive from the city center, the Victoria Butterfly Gardens is a great place to come and forget you’re in Canada for an hour. It’s an indoor tropical forest with free-flying butterflies and birdlife, not to mention all the different trees and flowers. 

You could tour the place quickly in under an hour, but I’m positive you’ll want to spend more time at the gardens once you pass through the front door. Also, I really like that all the animals here are rescues or donations, and are thriving in the lush rainforest environment. 

One thing to note is that it gets really hot in the tropical jungle, so you might need to take breaks if you stay there for a while. Make sure to bring a bottle of water to hydrate, and step outside every now and then to cool down a bit.

Victoria Butterfly Gardens has an entrance fee of $19.50 for adults. It’s open daily from 10 AM to 4 PM. 

16. Play Mini Golf in a Haunted Manor

Haunted Manor mini golf is not an activity for everyone, so feel free to leave it off your itinerary if it’s not something you’re likely to enjoy. But if you like mini golf or ping pong and you’re into haunted houses and ghost tours, it’s a very fun way of spending an evening in Victoria. 

The mansion offers an 18-hole minigolf course, pinball machines, and ping-pong tables. The on-site bar and restaurant serve a selection of (non) alcoholic drinks and classic pub food. 

Haunted Manor is open from 3 PM to 12 AM. General admission to the place is $24.95. 

17. Feel Classy At Afternoon Tea

Victoria was once a British Colony, and today it’s recognized as the most British city in Canada. So, it’s not too surprising that many popular British traditions have survived in the city. One of those is high tea, and it’s the perfect afternoon activity for travelers who want to spend an afternoon feeling fancy. 

There are quite a few different tea houses in Victoria, but I think the one at Pendray Inn is a top choice for tourists in the city. It’s in a charming Victorian mansion in James Bay, so just a short walk from the downtown. The elegant interior of the tea house is perfectly appropriate for high tea, while the food and drinks served there get only the highest markings. 

Once you’re done with the afternoon tea, take this opportunity to walk around the neighborhood a bit. The harbor is just a couple of minutes from Pendray Inn with views of the sea and huge ships. 

The Pendray tea house is open daily from 11 AM to 3/4 PM. Reservations are recommended, and the average cost per person is $60-70. A vegan option is available.  

18. Flower Fields at The Butchart Gardens

Spanning more than 22 hectares, this vast botanical garden is one of the best-known in British Columbia . With 26 greenhouses, ponds, statues, and multiple eateries, you could spend the better part of the day roaming around the Butchart Gardens . 

One thing I will say is that this is one of the priciest attractions in Victoria, BC, so you might want to leave it off your itinerary if you’re on a tighter budget. With daily tickets going as high as $40, it’s not a place everyone can comfortably enjoy. 

But you can get a much better deal on tickets if you come in the off-season, and honestly, the place is so wonderful I’d say it’s worth the money. Come here to see the endless field of colorful flowers and enjoy possibly the best-scented part of Victoria, BC. 

The Butchart Gardens are open from 9 AM to 4 PM. The adult entrance fee is $25-40, depending on the season.  

19. Landscape Views at Malahat SkyWalk

Situated northwest of Victoria, just off the Trans-Canada highway, the Malahat SkyWalk offers possibly the best landscape views in British Columbia. It’s only a 30-minute drive from Victoria BC, and well worth the trip if you’ve got access to a car. 

Malahat SkyWalk is a spiral tower on hilly ground in the middle of the forest. From the top, you can see the scenery of both the US and Canada, and it’s such a nice view that you’ll hardly want to leave. 

Malahat SkyWalk is open from 9 AM to 5 PM. Entrance to the spiral tower is charged $36.95. 

20. Be Amazed At Miniature World

Miniature World is a unique museum in Victoria, BC. It features miniature dioramas of real-life and fantasy locations and is nicknamed The Greatest Little Show on Earth. The detail in the dioramas is staggering, whether you’re looking at the replica of Toronto in 1915 or the depiction of Camelot. 

A quick tour of the place is possible in 45 minutes, but only if you rush through the place. Take your time to appreciate all the little details and really understand everything about the dioramas, and you could easily spend 2+ hours at the museum. 

Miniature World is open daily from 10 AM to 6 PM. The entrance fee is $19 for adults. 

21. Smell The Flowers at Abkhazi Garden

Victoria is well known for its many gardens and the Abkhazi Garden is one of the best close to the city center. Situated just a 15-minute bike ride from the heart of Victoria, it’s an excellent alternative for travelers who don’t want to go out of their way to see the Butchart Gardens. 

This is a much smaller garden, covering an area of “only” 1.4 hectares. It first started back in 1946, and it took a while for all the plants and trees to grow to their current size. The rhododendrons are the undisputed star of the lovely garden, followed by the tea house and ponds. Afternoon tea at the Abkhazi Garden is a great idea, but I will say that it’s in the same price range as the teahouse at Pendray Inn, but the interior decorations are not quite as nice. 

The Abkhazi Garden is open daily from 10 AM to 4 PM. The admission fee for adults is $10. 

22. Go For A Ride In A Pickle Boat 

Pickle boat tours are operated by Victoria Harbour Ferry, and they’re awesome. Discover Victoria from the sea while riding in a pickle boat, which sounds a lot cooler than it actually is. 

It’s just a small boat that can fit up to 12 passengers. While I love that it’s much more private than a classic tour boat, I was thoroughly disappointed to learn that it is not indeed shaped and painted like a pickle. 

The small boats will take you on tours of Victoria Harbor, and they often go all the way up to Burnside. It’s a great way of exploring even more of this wonderful city and seeing the areas that are not quite as convenient to reach on classic walking tours. 

Several options are available for tours of Victoria Inner Harbour, and they last from 45 to 75 minutes. The price is around $40-50. 

23. Check Out Fisherman’s Wharf

Fisherman’s Wharf is the most picturesque area of Victoria Inner Harbour. The piers are lined with floating houseboats painted in bright colors, several of which serve as restaurants or shops. Just keep in mind that people live in many of those houseboats, so respect their privacy while exploring the area.  

As you stroll down the piers, you can often spot seals swimming in the water. They love the attention they get from visitors and often engage in playful antics to entertain the onlookers. 

Fisherman’s Wharf extends beyond the piers lined with colorful boats to encompass an expansive park with picnic areas and a playground for kids. 

Fisherman’s Wharf is free and accessible at any time. Most shops and restaurants are open until 7 PM. 

24. Morning Jog Down Songhees Walkway

Songhees Walkway is a waterfront walking path that extends from Johnson Street Bridge to Sailor’s Cove Marina. It takes around 40 minutes to do the entire walk in one direction, and there are plenty of benches along the way so you can sit down for breaks. 

The walkway offers nice views of Victoria Inner Harbor with plenty of scenic viewpoints along the way. It’s also a great path for joggers in the morning, but only if you’re not easily distracted by the view. 

Songhees Walkway is accessible at any time for free. The walking path extends for about 3 kilometers in one direction. 

25. Join a Food Tour 

Locals always know where the best food in their city is, and you’ll become privy to that knowledge if you join a local food tour. These usually include trips to the city’s best landmarks and plenty of stops in popular local eateries along the way. 

The cuisine of Victoria, BC, is diverse. The classical local cuisine is heavy on seafood, but a proper Victoria food tour will include much more than what is considered traditional Canadian food . After all, it’s the city with the oldest Chinese neighborhood in Canada, and no culinary tour of Victoria is complete without a stop there.  

Food tours of Victoria, BC, usually last 2-3 hours. The starting price is $60. 

26. Admire the Aircraft at The BC Aviation Museum

The BC Aviation Museum is at Victoria Airport, so you should have at least two opportunities to visit it. It’s also a great incentive to arrive at the airport early and ensure you don’t miss your flight. 

The museum exhibit spans three hangars full of historic and modern aircraft. Helicopters, warplanes, and aircraft engines are all on display at this museum. If you’re offered a guided tour of the museum, take it. You’ll get to learn so much about the aircraft on display, and it’s a lot better than just walking around the hangar on your own. 

The BC Aviation Museum is open daily from 10 AM to 4 PM. The entrance fee is $17 for adults. 

27. Go Kayaking or Canoeing 

Kayaking and canoeing are both very popular activities in Victoria, BC, and the perfect way to explore the city beyond its busy streets. Join a guided kayaking tour or rent a canoe and take to the seas on your own—whatever your preference is, it shouldn’t be a problem. 

One thing I will say is that guided tours are the best option for people with little experience in kayaks and canoes. The currents here can be unpredictable, and if you’re not familiar with the weather conditions it could become an unpleasant or even dangerous experience. 

The beauty of these water adventures is that they’ll take you to places that would otherwise remain undiscovered. Wave between the small rocky islands and enjoy a different perspective on Victoria’s Inner Harbor. 

Several operates offer kayak and canoe tours in Victoria BC , but Kelp Reef Adventures is one of the most popular. 

28. See the Sakura Trees in Chinatown 

I’ve mentioned Fan Tan Alley as the central point of Victoria’s Chinatown, but the historic district extends way beyond it. It’s the oldest Chinese neighborhood in Canada and one of the prettiest parts of Victoria. 

A gate marks the entrance to this historic area, so it’s super easy to find. Sakura trees line the streets of Chinatown, and they’re reason enough to consider traveling to Victoria in the spring. The entire neighborhood is also decorated with traditional Chinese lanterns. 

Apart from being aesthetically pleasing, Chinatown is also known for the best Chinese food in Victoria. You’ll also find loads of shops that sell traditional Chinese souvenirs, and you might want to peruse them if you’re in the market for unique souvenirs. 

The historic Chinatown neighborhood is in the northern part of the Downtown district in Victoria BC. 

29. Whale Watching Adventures

Victoria and British Columbia, in general, are some of Canada’s best spots for whale watching. There must be a dozen tour operators in the city, but my favorite one is Prince of Whales, situated in the Destination Greater Victoria tourism center building in the harbor. 

The experienced operators will take you to the best spots to see whales, orcas, and even seal colonies. But they also know to keep their distance from the animals so they don’t disturb them in their daily routines. 

This operator offers year-round whale-watching experiences in 12-passenger Zodiac boats. With a 95% success rate of the tours, you’re practically guaranteed to spot the majestic mammals. 

Prince of Whales whale-watching tours are available year-round. They start at $150 and last 3-6 hours. 

30. Venture Out To Swan Lake

Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary is within cycling distance of downtown Victoria. It’s a great place to visit if you don’t want to go to parks that are farther outside the city center but still want to enjoy a short hiking adventure. 

The nature sanctuary features a loop walking path that even crosses the lake at one point. It takes roughly 30 minutes to complete, and it’s a well-maintained and easy walking path suitable for everyone. You don’t have to be an experienced hiker to enjoy the Swan Lake Loop, which will reward you with some beautiful views of the lake and the surrounding forest. 

Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary is open from 10?AM to 4?PM. Admission to the park is free of charge, but the entrance fee to the Nature House museum is a suggested $6 donation. 

31. Totems at Thunderbird Park 

Thunderbird Park is a small public park in central Victoria. Situated right next to the Royal BC Museum, the park is best known for its totem pole replicas and historic houses. 

The totems aren’t quite as spectacular as the ones in Vancouver, but they are still quite a lovely sight. Mungo Martin House is known for its painted exterior, while the Helmcken House Pioneer Doctor’s Residence offers short tours of a surgeon’s house with period furniture. 

Thunderbird Park is free and accessible at any time. 

32. Ziplining in The Forest 

Thrill seekers won’t be let down by the selection of activities in Victoria. Just a 30-minute drive from the Downtown you’ll find Adrenaline Zip – a local company that operates ziplining tours in the rainforest. 

One thing to note is that this is along the way if you embark on the Galloping Goose Trail. The zipline rides are exciting and very fun. The entire adventure takes about two hours, and it includes 8 zipline rides, a suspension bridge, and an ATV ride. 

The ziplining tour starts at $120. For an extra $30, they’ll throw in a shuttle service to Victoria.

33. Ride The Hop On Hop Off Bus

I’m not the biggest fan of Hop-On Hop-Off buses, but I have to admit they’re a great option for travelers who are in town for a very short time. If you’re in Victoria for only a day or two, riding the double-decker bus is great for seeing all the city’s top landmarks in that time. 

The beauty of these buses is that you can get out at any stop, explore the area, and then just get on the bus again. You can even stay seated on the bus the entire time and just sightsee from the comfort of your seat, while the tour guide tells you the story behind the different attractions. 

Buy Hop-On Hop-Off bus tickets for $55 (valid for 24 hours) or $88 (valid for 48 hours).

34. Craft Beer Crawl

With more than 20 craft breweries throughout Victoria, the city is truly a great spot for beer lovers. Loads of pubs in the city serve local craft beer, and you can even tour breweries to try the drink right at the source. 

The Craft Beer Market in Victoria Harbor is one of the best pubs in the city. It offers a wide selection of local and international craft beer. They even offer tasting menus, so you can try half a dozen glasses. 

The Whistle Buoy Brewing Company in the Downtown is my top choice for a local brewery tour. 

Pubs in Victoria, BC, are usually open until 9-11 PM and a bit longer on the weekends. 

FAQ For Best Things To Do In Victoria BC

Is victoria, bc, worth visiting.

Yes, Victoria BC is worth visiting. It’s a gorgeous city with stunning Victorian architecture, a picturesque harbor, and a walkable downtown area. 

What is Victoria BC well known for?

Victoria BC is known for many botanical gardens and gorgeous Victorian mansions. The city is also nicknamed the cycling capital of Canada, thanks to countless kilometers of cycling and mountain biking trails. 

What is the #1 tourist attraction in British Columbia?

The Stanley Park Totem Pole is by far the most popular tourist attraction in British Columbia. The Butchart Gardens is the most famous tourist attraction in Greater Victoria. 

Is Victoria BC a walkable city?

Much of Victoria BC is walkable and pedestrian-friendly. However, there are many interesting places outside the downtown that are worth visiting but not accessible on foot. 

Tips And Information For Visiting Victoria BC

Best Time To Visit 

The best time to visit Victoria depends on what your priorities are. If you want to be in the city when it’s warm and sunny, then you should plan a trip in the summer. But expect higher prices of hotels and large crowds of tourists. 

If, on the other hand, you don’t mind walking around in a jacket if it means fewer tourists and better hotel deals, travel to Victoria in April-May or September-October. Just keep in mind that the city gets quite a bit of rainfall in the spring and autumn, so it’s not the ideal period for outdoor activities. 

What about the winter season? Victoria is spectacular in the winter and the temperatures rarely drop below 0 Celsius. It is especially nice there during the Christmas festivities.

Getting There

Victoria International Airport is the closest airport to the city, but it has a direct connection to very few international destinations. The airport in Vancouver, on the other hand, is the second-busiest in the country and chances are it will be your first stop in Canada. 

From there you’ve got loads of options. Local flights, seaplanes, and ferries all make it possible to travel from Vancouver to Victoria . You can even take a bus from the airport to the city, which takes about four hours to reach the destination, with a ferry crossing. 

Getting Around 

Downtown Victoria is a very walkable area and you can visit most attractions in the historic part of the city on foot. Cycling is a great way of getting around the city because you can get to the more remote parts of Greater Victoria in about an hour, plus you won’t have to deal with rush hour traffic as much. 

Bike rentals are available throughout the city and are great for travelers visiting Victoria. Because the city doesn’t have a metro system, buses are the only viable mode of public transport. They’re convenient for traveling around the city but are generally quite slow. 

Uber and taxis are another option for reaching the more remote areas, but they’re also the most expensive way of getting around Victoria. As for car rental, I think it makes sense only if you’re in town for a longer time. Otherwise, it’s really not worth it because most of the best attractions in the city are within walking distance of one another. 

How Much Time Do You Need

Victoria is a pretty big city and I reckon you need at least three days to explore all of the best attractions downtown and a few famous sights in Greater Victoria. I think it’s possible to cover the best landmarks in Victoria in about two days, but you will be in a bit of a rush the entire time. 

Travelers who love being outdoors and exploring nature will have a great time in Victoria. If you can swing five days here, you can have enough time to explore a good chunk of Vancouver Island, much of which is untouched nature. 

Where To Stay In Victoria BC

Stay in Downtown Victoria or the historic James Bay neighborhood for easy walking access to all the best landmarks and attractions in the city. Both areas offer a wide variety of hotels in every price range, as well as loads of interesting tourist attractions. Some of the best hotels in Victoria for all budgets are: 

• Ocean Island Inn offers budget accommodation with a fantastic location in Downtown Victoria. 
• Fairmont Empress is one of the best hotels in central Victoria, with lovely views of Victoria Inner Harbor. 
• The Oak Bay Beach Hotel is a five-star hotel with an oceanfront location. It has a fantastic spa center and large rooms, but it is quite far from the city center. Consider staying at the Oak Bay Beach Hotel if you’re planning a relaxing vacation in Victoria, BC. 

Our BC Resources

• 30 Awesome Things to Do in Whistler, BC
• The Best Things to Do in Revelstoke, BC – Besides Skiing
• 14 Amazing Things to Do in Squamish BC
• Where to Stay in Vancouver – Best Areas to Stay
• 36 Best Things to Do in Vancouver, Canada
• 21 Best Day Trips from Vancouver, British Columbia

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Allianz - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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About Sara Oprasic

Sara loves writing about travel as much as she loves traveling. In her spare time, she enjoys reading, spending time with her cats, and crossing items off her bucket list. She’s yet to cross off Japan, Tromsø, and Hogsmeade. You can see what she’s up to on her Instagram Page

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Call Victory Travel Center for up-to-date prices at +1 803-751-1400

Victory Travel Price Guide

Victory Travel Center is committed to offering you the best possible travel services by our experienced and certified staff. With state-of-the-art reservation system, we can assist you with your travel needs from individual travel, family travel and groups.

We can provide you with airlines, hotels worldwide, car rentals, cruises, tours and Amtrak. Planning to see your soldier graduate from Ft. Jackson? Victory Travel offers a variety of hotels in the Ft. Jackson area.

Victory Travel also has tickets to Disney World, Universal Orlando and other theme parks in Florida as well as local attractions in and around the Columbia area. Knowing what’s right for your travel needs takes time, expertise and resources. Contact Victory Travel, we can do it.

Need hotel accommodations during your Soldier's family and graduation day here at Fort Jackson?  Call Victory Travel at 803-751-1400 to book discounted rooms at numerous hotels. 

• We can offer you rates lower than online competitors
• We do hotel site inspections, so we know what they have to offer 
• Reach out to us at 803-751-1400, Monday - Friday, 8:30am -4:30pm, closed on all Federal holidays or email us at [email protected]   
• Please include a return phone number

Carowinds  Local favorite, Carowinds is a 407-acre amusement park primarily located in Charlotte, North Carolina. Owned and operated by Cedar Fair, the park opened to the public on March 31, 1973. Carowinds straddles the   state line between   North and South Carolina. At Carowinds, they honor the men and women who serve our country by offering special military discounts to active military personnel and veterans on single-day admission tickets and Gold Season Passes .

Call Victory Travel for current pricing at 803-751-1400

Riverbanks Zoo and Garden

Riverbanks Zoo and Garden is South Carolina's largest gated attraction, averaging 1,000,000 visitors each year. Riverbanks is a four-time winner of the Southeastern Tourism Society's Shining Example Award as the southeast's top tourist attraction and a two-time winner of the SC Parks Recreation and Tourism Governor's Cup Award as South Carolina's Leading Attraction. Call Victory Travel for current pricing at 803-751-1400. For more info, visit www.riverbanks.org

South Carolina State Museum  

The State Museum is housed in its largest artifact, the former Columbia Mill. This former textile mill also is a world-first. When it opened in 1894, manufacturing cotton duck cloth (a canvas-like material), it was the first totally electric textile mill in the world. It was also the first major industrial installation for the General Electric corporation. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Call Victory Travel for current pricing at 803-751-1400

Medieval Times: Myrtle Beach 

Travel through the mists of time to a forgotten age and a tale of devotion, courage and love—at Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament. Imagine the pageantry and excitement that would have been yours as a guest of the king ten centuries ago.

See our electrifying show featuring heroic knights on spirited horses displaying the astounding athletic feats and thrilling swordplay that have become hallmarks of this unique entertainment experience. Enjoy a “hands-on” feast as the dynamic performance unfolds before you. Reservations can be made through us. 

WonderWorks: Myrtle Beach

Local amusement park for the mind with 41,000 square feet of  “edu-tainment” . The upside-down attraction combines education and entertainment with more than 100 hands-on exhibits that challenge the mind and spark the imagination.

This once top-secret laboratory was located in the Bermuda Triangle. An experiment gone awry lifted the laboratory, carrying it to Broadway at the Beach in Myrtle Beach where it landed upside down. Luckily, all of the exhibits remained intact and available for guests to explore.

South Carolina Aquarium The South Carolina Aquarium showcases aquatic life from the five major regions found in South Carolina: Mountain Forest, Piedmont, Coastal Plain, Coast and the Atlantic Ocean. The Aquarium's structure extends 200 feet out over Charleston Harbor. As visitors approach the Aquarium, they enter the ticketing area under a magnificent stained-glass art wall. Then, they are treated to the sight and sound of flowing water over a sculptural interpretation of the ACE Basin - the largest protected salt marsh on the East Coast. Call Victory Travel for current pricing at 803-751-1400

Walt Disney World Florida

We have your Hopper and Single-Day tickets for various days throughout the year. Choose between a 3-Day, 4-Day, 5-Day Disney Military Salute Ticket (formerly the Disney Military Promotional Ticket) for visits in 2024. Purchases now through December 15, 2024. Experience even more magic with Magic your Way tickets. Ask one of our travel agents for more information.

Call Victory Travel for current pricing 803-751-1400

Universal Studios Orlando

You've earned your leave and then some. As thanks for your service, we offer active duty and retired service members specially priced tickets and vacation packages. Make every second with your family count with a vacation that actually feels like a vacation. At Universal Orlando Resort, you can free yourself to be yourself.

Details and Qualifications You must present your current military or Department of Defense identification at any participating Authorized Military Ticket & Travel office.

Eligible Service Members

• Active Duty (Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Coast Guard, National Guard, Reservists) and spouses
• Retired Military service members and spouses
• Department of Defense Civilians

Take your vacation to the next level at Universal Orlando Resort. With three amazing theme parks- Universal Studios Florida, Universal's Islands of Adventure, and Universal's Volcano Bay water theme park - spectacular on-site hotels and more, it's days and nights of endless fun for every member of the family.

2024 Military Freedom Pass

LEGOLAND Florida

LEGOLAND® Florida Resort is the place where kids rule! It's where princesses, knights, and adventurer's roam; where dragons soar, castles are stormed, and pirates sail the seven seas. We are truly the ultimate multi-day vacation destination for families with young kids. Here, imagination comes to life with over 50 rides, shows and attractions at the Theme Park, 14 water slides in the Water Park, 3 unique themed Hotels and more! 

Kennedy Space Center

As a NASA contractor, the Kennedy Space Center takes great pride in operating the visitor complex providing hospitality services. From operating the Kennedy Space Center Bus Tour to serving lunch at the Moon Rock Cafe, our goal is to provide stewardship and hospitality in special places dedicated to creating memorable guest experiences as unique as the destination.

The visitor complex is completely funded by visitor-generated revenue and no U.S. tax dollars are used to provide visitor access to the historic birthplace of American spaceflight. 

For more information contact Victory Travel at 803-751-1400

SeaWorld Orlando

SeaWorld Orlando is a marine-themed park in south-central Orange County, Fla., owned and operated by Busch Entertainment Corp., a division of Anheuser-Busch Cos. The 200+ acre park opened in 1973. SeaWorld Orlando features shows, hands-on exhibits, aquariums, rides, restaurants and stores.

Rides range from several designed for small children to Central Florida's tallest and fastest roller coaster, Kraken. SeaWorld and its animal care specialists also are known for their marine animal rescue and conservation efforts, most notably to save manatees and dolphins.

Get ready for down-home family fun at “The Alligator Capital of the World” Gatorland. There isn’t a better place to see alligators and crocodiles of all sizes, from babies, also known as grunts, to the 14-foot monsters that call our Breeding Marsh home.

Gatorland is the largest collection of extremely rare white leucistic alligators, but it's more than just a gator park. Our free-flight aviary, petting zoo, one-of-a-kind animal shows, thrilling screamin’ Gator Zip Line and new Stompin’ Gator Off-Road Adventure ensure your day will be chock-full of fun, smiles, and special memories.

Six Flags Over Atlanta  Six Flags wishes to thank those in the armed force. You’ll get admission to all the thrilling twists, turns, and treats that Six Flags Over Georgia has to offer. Home to excitement like the tallest and fastest coaster in the world, the largest safari outside of Africa and the hottest summer concerts, there’s something for the entire family. Call Victory Travel for current pricing at 803-751-1400

Georgia Aquarium

Georgia Aquarium, located in Atlanta, Georgia, is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that contains more than 11 million gallons of water. Georgia Aquarium is a scientific institution that entertains and educates, features exhibit and programs of the highest standards, and offers engaging and exciting guest experiences that promote the conservation of aquatic biodiversity throughout the world. As a leader in aquatic research and exceptional animal care, we are dedicated to fostering a deeper appreciation for our ocean and the animals that call it home. 

Medieval Times: Atlanta

Travel through the mists of time to a forgotten age and a tale of devotion, courage and love—at Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament. Imagine the pageantry and excitement that would have been yours as a guest of the king ten centuries ago. That’s exactly what you will experience at North America’s most popular dinner attraction.

See our electrifying show featuring heroic knights on spirited horses displaying the astounding athletic feats and thrilling swordplay that have become hallmarks of this unique entertainment experience.

Six Flags White Water Atlanta

Come experience White Water, Atlanta's most thrilling waterpark! White Water is thrilled to welcome to our waterpark guests from all around Atlanta, and a very special welcome to all of our international guests. If your family is looking for things to do in Atlanta, you’ve come to the right place.

With towering, exciting water slides, relaxing lazy rivers and wave pools, and splash parks for the kids, Six Flags White Water has something for everyone.

LEGOLAND Discovery Center 

Experience the next-gen home of LEGO® imagination & play, where you and your family create your own adventures in 10 epic zones with over two million LEGO bricks. 

DollyWood Theme Park 

Crafted daily. Spanning 160 acres in the Great Smoky Mountains, Dollywood theme park offers more than 50 world-class rides, high-energy entertainment, award-winning   dining and the friendliest theme park atmosphere in the world! 

Our special military tickets for U.S. active or retired military, veterans, and military reservists, spouses and dependents when valid military personnel IDs and dependent IDs are verified online using ID.me. All daily ticket prices below include the special discount.  Call Victory Travel for current pricing at 803-751-1400

Kings Dominion

Kings Dominion is an amusement park located in Doswell, Virginia, 20 miles north of Richmond and 75 miles south of Washington, D.C. Experience fun all season long with our world-class events. Celebrate cultures from across the world during our immersive international celebration, Grand Carnivale. Kids can experience amazing fall fun at The Great Pumpkin Fest and as the park descends into darkness, fear rises as hundreds of monsters take over the park at Halloween Haunt. Watch the park go from scary to merry as the park transforms into a winter wonderland full of enchantment and holiday cheer with millions of lights, festive shows, and more during WinterFest.

Kings Dominion is filled with AMAZING fun for everyone in the family. Don’t miss out on your chance to make unforgettable memories.

Luray Caverns

Luray Caverns, originally called Luray Cave, is a cave just west of Luray, Virginia, United States, which has drawn many visitors since its discovery in 1878. It's the largest caverns in the eastern United States yet walking through feels more akin to an unearthly experience.

Visit Geology’s Hall of Fame. Tours along lighted, paved walkways lead visitors through cathedral-sized rooms with ceilings 10-stories high, towering stone formations, and natural wonders at every turn.

Busch Gardens Williamsburg

Thrills and nature intersect at our park and provide a hidden adventure for all ages. Busch Gardens in Williamsburg, Virginia is the world’s most beautiful theme park, as voted year after year since 1990. Our theme is classic Europe with artfully landscaped villages, like the Parisian streets of France, the hamlets of Scotland and the Oktoberfest celebrations of Germany. In all, we have nine villages centered around six countries for you to explore.

Whether you are a season cruiser or first-timer, we can help you book your cruise of your dreams, Victory Travel style. We've partnered with many of the top-of-the-line cruise lines. 

• Carnival Cruise Line
• Royal Caribbean Cruise Line
• Disney Cruise Line
• Norwegian Cruise Line
• Viking Cruise Line
• Holland Cruise Line 
• Virgin Voyage Cruise Line 

Did you know that Cruises, flights, rental cars and other travel services are available via the American Forces Travel website at  www.AmericanForcesTravel.com .  Additionally, patrons can utilize the American Forces Travel website to search and book hotels on their own at  www.AmericanForcesTravel.com . American Forces Travel Authorized Patrons Today:

• All current active-duty military (Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force, and Coast Guard)
• All members of the Reserve components and National Guard Coast Guard Auxiliary Active Duty
• All current active duty and retired National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)
• All current active duty and retired US Public Health Service (USPHS)
• All retired military, including those in the Reserves and National Guard who are retirement eligible
• All Medal of Honor recipients
• All veterans with service-connected disabilities, all veterans who are Purple Heart recipients, all veterans who are former prisoners of war, all individuals approved and designated as the primary family caregivers of eligible veterans under the Department of Veterans Affairs Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers.

For more information and to check availability please contact Victory Travel at 803-751-1400

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Holiday Packages

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Chambal Safari Lodge

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Aramness Gir National Park

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Ramayana Epic Tour

₹ 45,400 /person.

Serene Bali With Nusa Penida

₹ 28,650 /person.

Glimpse of Switzerland

₹ 157,599 /person.

• Switzerland

Best Of Vietnam

₹ 54,400 /person.

Heavenly Kashmir

₹ 29,900 /person.

Holy Triangle

₹ 26,500 /person.

Ladakh - Lakes & Monasteries

₹ 42,000 /person.

Magnificent Turkey

₹ 92,999 /person.

Experience The Essence of South Africa

₹ 147,650 /person.

• SOUTH AFRICA

Magical Baku

₹ 30,175 /person.

Fascinating Georgia

₹ 42,100 /person.

Magical Mauritius

₹ 42,300 /person.

Arabian Extravaganza

₹ 44,000 /person.

• Dubai with Abu Dhabi

₹ 25,500 /per person

Phuket & Krabi

₹ 59,500 /per person, ₹ 32,000 /per person.

₹ 43,200 /per person

• East Africa

₹ 51,500 /per person

₹ 28,000 /per person

₹ 25,400 /per person

Kenya & Tanzania

₹ 218,954 /per person.

• Kenya–Tanzania

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Our travel agency excels in creating personalized holiday packages that align with your specific interests and preferences.

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Your safety and security are our utmost priority.

We work with trusted partners and meticulously assess the safety standards of all elements of your holiday package.

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We believe that the essence of travel lies in authentic cultural experiences.

Our holiday packages are designed to immerse you in the local customs, traditions, and flavors of your chosen destinations.

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7 luxe stays in Victoria for your next weekend getaway

From secluded beaches on rugged coastline to awestriking hiking trails in alpine regions, Victoria boasts a wealth of distinctive drawcards based on its natural world. While the cultural and culinary melting pot of Melbourne is a grand place to kick your heels, sometimes going beyond the city’s reach does wonders for R&R.So when it comes to booking an Airbnb in regional Victoria, you’ll want to ensure it hits all the right high notes. 

We’ve rounded up some of the best Airbnb Victoria stays to escape to during the cooler months, from romantic getaways to creative retreats to off-grid cabins immersed in nature.

The best romantic Airbnb in Victoria

Wensley, Wensleydale

Just an hour and a half by car from the capital, The Wensley is a bespoke recycled timber house set on rolling hills of 80 acres that was a Best Design Stay finalist in the 2022 Airbnb Host Awards Australia. With high ceilings, a cosy fireplace and a gourmet chef’s kitchen, this countryside stay is one of pure luxe.

Notable features:

• Built from recycled Oregon and Ironbark bespoke timber
• Floor to ceiling windows
• Fans and air conditioning
• Indoor fireplace
• Concrete chimney
• Bose sound system
• Gourmet chef’s kitchen
• Natural stone tub
• Sunset deck
• Outdoor shower and galvanised French bath tub
• Loft bedroom
• Weber barbecue

The best designer Airbnb in Victoria

Cape Schanck House, Cape Schanck

A critically-acclaimed architectural design escape on the southern tip of the Mornington Peninsula, Cape Schanck House boasts sustainable foundations and a killer location. Receiving Best House at the Royal Australian Institute of Architects Awards, this unique stay is one for the whimsically-inclined.

• Sustainable design – water tank and floor fans
• Nespresso machine
• Netflix and Apple TV
• Pet-friendly for $50 per dog

The best Victorian Airbnbs with outdoor baths

Liptrap Loft, South Gippsland

Set on five acres of bushland two hours out of Melbourne, Liptrap Loft is a handmade home of recycled materials with Japanese-influenced architecture. With its own bathhouse, this stay is a true oasis that is also not too far from the secluded beaches of Wilson’s Promontory National Park.

• Outdoor Japanese bath house
• Wood-fired heater
• Basic pantry essentials
• Outdoor dining table and chairs
• Outdoor hammock
• Outdoor shower
• Two mountain bikes
• Pet-friendly

Acreage stay, Hoddles Creek

Overlooking Hoddles Creek and the Yarra Ranges, you’d be absolutely spoilt with a vista sharing a bottle of vino in this outdoor spa. Potter about the four acres of rugged nature on which this property is set, or head to the waterfall or red wood forest for an afternoon of awe.

• Outdoor spa
• Onsite therapeutic massages and beauty treatments can be arranged
• 2km down a dirt road
• Mountain, valley and vineyard views
• HD TV with Chromecast and Apple TV

The best off-grid Airbnb in Victoria

Tiny Home, Mansfield

Ideal for adventurers, this off grid cabin is located in the wilderness 45 minutes from the top of Mount Buller and five minutes from the centre of Mansfield. Made from converted containers, this tiny home has limited resources and is intended for those who wish to ignore the call of the big smoke.

• Indoor and outdoor cast iron fireplaces
• Made up of two separate containers

The best Airbnb with ocean views

Jacky Winter Waters, Walkerville

Luxuriously minimal, this creative refuge encourages connection to the natural world and is set among the limestone cliffs of South Gippsland Coastline. Overlooking the beaches that served as inspiration for Alison Lester AM’s classic picture book Magic Beach , this retreat is a nostalgic treasure.

• Large deck with ocean views
• Dog-friendly
• High speed internet
• Small footprint design
• Ocean and mountain views
• Sonos Move sound system
• Air conditioning
• Hammock 

The best farm stay in Victoria

Alkira Eco Glamping Retreat, Emerald

Located on a hobby farm an hour’s drive from Melbourne’s CBD, this adults-only stay is fit with rustic charm offering an escape from the hustle and bustle. In-house massages, facials, picnic and breakfast hampers and animal feeding sessions can be organised onsite to further elevate your time away.

• Outdoor bath
• Outdoor kitchen
• Animals on the hobby farm
• Electric indoor fireplace
• Central indoor conditioning

Six romantic getaways in the Victoria High Country

5 luxe Geelong Airbnbs to book for your Great Ocean Road getaway

Beyond laneways: A peek into some of Melbourne’s most luxe Airbnb stays

Far out luxury: the best remote retreats in Australia

Writer and journalist Jessica G. Lynch is a senior shopping content producer across the Are Media digital titles, namely Gourmet Traveller and Better Homes and Gardens. She’s also studying her Master of Arts in Creative Writing and had work featured in Homes to Love, ELLE, Who, Now To Love, Body + Soul, Kidspot, FBi Radio and The Australian. After completing her Bachelor of Media (Screen Practice and Production) at Macquarie University and the University of Bologna, Jess shares her expertise on all things travel, homes, food, culture and lifestyle – anything to stoke the la dolce vita spirit. She’s a regular at coffee haunts in Sydney’s inner west, usually working on a screenplay or entering a research spiral of destinations near and abroad.

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Don't cheap out on travel medical, experts say, after family runs into resistance from insurance firm

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The experience of a woman seriously injured in a scooter crash in Thailand is a reminder to travellers to do their research before purchasing travel medical insurance, say travel experts.

Danielle Kliaman broke all the bones in her foot when she was hit by a truck while riding a scooter on the island of Ko Samui, Thailand, last week.

After her foot became infected, her family paid $30,000 for an air ambulance to fly her to a hospital in Bangkok.

But the family has had difficulty getting her travel medical insurance company to pay for her transport and medical care. Kliaman’s mother, Annette, had to pledge that she would cover her daughter’s hospital bill in case the insurance company did not pay.

Kliaman had purchased her insurance, with a $250,000 US limit, from a U.S.-based company. The family has requested that the name of the company be withheld due to ongoing discussions over reimbursement for bills already incurred and future expenses.

The Times Colonist attempted to contact the company, but had not received a response by publication deadline.

Travel experts say it’s important to check the maximum amount of coverage for medical expenses before you buy travel medical insurance.

Most people in the travel industry contacted by the Times Colonist were surprised to hear of the $250,000 US limit on Kliaman’s policy, which they consider too low. They said Canadian travel-insurance policies typically come with $5 million to 10 million in medical coverage.

“Medical costs can easily reach $10,000 a day,” said Will McAleer, executive director of Travel Health Insurance Association of Canada, an umbrella group that represents 90 per cent of the industry in Canada.

“If you have a code-blue event in a U.S. hospital, it can be as high as $10,000 an hour.”

He said travellers choosing between different insurance policies should look for ones tailor-made for Canadians.

“Plans underwritten by travel agents and insurance brokers in Canada take into account Canadian needs and expectations when it comes to medical care. They have the knowledge and experience to properly explain policies to clients so that they understand the differences between different plans,” said McAleer, who is based in Toronto.

Insurance premiums are based on the length of the trip, the age of the traveller, where they are travelling and pre-existing medical conditions.

Most plans originating in Canada take into account the traveller’s provincial medical plan. While the B.C. Medical Services Plan provides some coverage — $75 a day — for emergency hospital care for travel outside Canada, it’s clearly not enough to cover physician and hospital care, prescriptions, ambulance services, and travel back home.

Cathy Scott, CEO of Departures Travel, the oldest independent travel agency in Victoria, said travel insurance sounds expensive — until you need it. “It’s not worth going cheap,” she said. “Travel is supposed to be joyful.”

She said that in the case of a medical emergency, the company she uses — Manulife — has Canadian doctors taking telephone calls, guidance on next steps and payment up-front for medical expenses.

Companies will typically pay first and investigate later, experts said.

Scott said she has seen a “huge” uptick in people purchasing travel insurance, which includes trip-interruption insurance, since the COVID-19 pandemic.

“The people who didn’t get insurance, got nothing. Those who purchased insurance at least got something back,” she said.

When an emergency does happen, insurance companies have in-house personnel or contracted companies that provide assistance services, liaising with doctors and hospitals, the policy holder and the insurance company.

They look over doctors’ reports, police reports and other documents, advise insurance companies of the steps necessary to get aid to the individual and ensure payment of local providers.

On Thursday, Kliaman’s family learned her insurance company will cover the cost of surgery to her foot, but won’t reimburse the family for the air ambulance trip.

McAleer said determining whether a medical evacuation is necessary rests with medical personnel — if the doctor in charge decided the patient did not need immediate air evacuation — or that an alternate mode of transport was available — the company is within its rights to deny that portion of the claim.

McAleer suggests the family keep lines of communication open as well as retaining all records.

David Rose, general manager of Mile 0 Tours, said he is sympathetic to the family’s plight. He said during a medical emergency, “everything seems to take longer than it should.”

All the experts agree that consumers should read the fine print when comparing policies and ask for help picking the best policy for their needs.

“No one [in the travel insurance industry] wants to see what this family is going through. It’s inconsistent with the standards we have set for the industry,” said McAleer.

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While the night is young: shake off the weekday blahs for art, space travel and glamour at two of Melbourne’s best museums

After-hours programming at the Melbourne Museum and the Melbourne Planetarium at Scienceworks is lighting up the night

Everyone knows that the world only reveals its deeper magic and glamour once the children have gone to bed. Step out into the night and the familiar becomes mysterious as the spell of adventure and romance is cast.

This is the mood of both the Melbourne Museum and the Melbourne Planetarium at Scienceworks when they reopen their doors after dark to welcome adult visitors. By night, both institutions offer sophisticated outings. Music, conversation, exploration and a drink or two are intended to entice people away from their screens, and bring enchantment into their evenings.

Nocturnal: Museum After Dark

One of Australia’s most popular museums, Melbourne Museum showcases the city’s social and environmental history and the richness of First Nations cultures. It’s admired for engaging audiences with playful and relevant programming, and preserving the stories that have shaped a community. Nocturnal: Museum After Dark presents the museum’s collection plus special programming for those in search of a nightlife less ordinary.

In this exclusive program, held on the second Thursday of each month from 6pm-9pm, visitors can explore the museum in a different way. If a night out could do with a little more originality, bring your date to discover the stories behind more than 200 recovered artefacts in Titanic: The Artefact Exhibition . Access to this world of lost decadence is included in your pass to Nocturnal. You can also explore the landscapes of the Cretaceous period, the stories, art and performances of First Nations communities at the Bunjilaka Aboriginal Cultural Centre, and listen to expert talks on bygone days.

Music, food and wine help bring the vibes to your museum meanderings. Stay for dinner and drinks and your whole night is set. You’ll find deluxe burgers and chilli dogs for every appetite, and there is no need for reservations. DJ Mon Franco mixes a supple blend of house, disco, funk and soul music that echoes through the halls to create the soundtrack to what you do in the dark. So come dance among the glittering objects and dinosaur bones, and drink and eat, because Nocturnal is playtime for the grownups.

Planetarium Nights at Scienceworks

For night-time explorers there’s no greater pleasure than stargazing. At Planetarium Nights at Scienceworks the night sky stretches before you in all its wonder, revealing what the naked eye can only squint at. The Planetarium opens for adult audiences every Friday night. See the heavenly bodies glow luminescent under a 16-metre domed ceiling, and catch a fulldome film screening.

Planetarium Nights offer guided tours through the night sky and films specially created for the fulldome screen. In April, the 7.30pm session features the show Big Astronomy, in which you’ll learn about the remote observatories in Chile where astronomers peer into the farthest reaches of the universe. The session also includes What’s in the Sky Tonight, a guided tour of Melbourne’s sky as it appears that night in all its astonishing variation. Guided by expert astronomers, no two presentations are quite alike.

Things get psychedelic from 9pm with the presentation of 22.7°c: The Full Dome Experience, a hypnotic blend of Arctic-inspired visuals and electronic music. Then comes Waiting Far Away, the nostalgic, yearning tale of a cosmic traveller lost in space. There’s something for lovers of science, cinema and music alike under the dome.

There’s a lot more to Melbourne’s nightlife than pubs and clubs – both the Melbourne Museum and the Melbourne Planetarium at Scienceworks offer exciting programs that can ignite a passion for the arts, science and history. So step out into the dark and book a night at the museum.

After dark, the Melbourne Museum and the Melbourne Planetarium at Scienceworks light up with adults-only programming that spotlights otherworldly exhibitions, music and films.

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Victoria and David Beckham travel in style with the ultimate luxury bags

The pair looked categorically chic with their expensive luggage in tow.

As far as celebrity couples go, Victoria and David Beckham are one of the most stylish pairings out there.

It helps that they've had years to hone their tastes, spurred on by some outré experimentation. (Their matching leather moment – which Victoria revealed still "haunts" her in an interview on Watch What Happens Live – will go down in fashion history.)

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But these days, their joint appearances are far more measured, and their latest look, shared on the Beckham matriarch's Instagram Stories with her  32.8m followers , is a case in point.

Following a gym accident in February, the 49-year-old injured her foot, leaving her using crutches and a medical boot. David bought his wife a four-wheeled mobility scooter to help her get around, and in the funny clip, Victoria made the most of her unusual gift.

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The British fashion mogul scooted along, elongating her uninjured leg in a fashion that mimicked a balletic arabesque. Talk about athletic.

But above all else, their chic luggage caught our attention. As David comically raised his brows at his posing wife, he carried a patterned holdall that strongly resembled French heritage label Goyard's Bowling 55 bag.

READ:  Victoria Beckham poses for chic backstage selfie with Nicola Peltz ahead of PFW show

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The luxurious piece of luggage was originally designed to cater to those wanting to travel lighter, "driven in particular by the rise in air travel in the 1950s", according to Goyard's website. It's unfortunately not available to buy directly via the website, but there are various pre-loved options for sale, priced at upwards of £4,000.

The piece is available in five colourways, but the holdall that David carried was black and dark grey, matching his all-black outfit, save for pops of white and a brown baseball cap.

Victoria wore an equally chic accessory, a structured box bag on a long strap that she slung over her shoulder as she scooted about and showed off her impressive flexibility.

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The bizarre burial requests of Queen Victoria

Posted: 18 April 2024 | Last updated: 18 April 2024

Queen Victoria was one of the most influential monarchs in British history. So much so that the long period she ruled was named the Victorian era. During this time, it was common to attach much greater significance to burials when someone died. Life expectancy was much shorter, and death was a part of everyday life. Attaching more ritual and meaning to the manner of burial helped to deal with this difficult reality. Many people left instructions for their funeral and burial, and Queen Victoria was no exception. In fact, the woman left a detailed 12-page manual! She was known for her eccentricities, and this certainly comes across in her last wishes...

Intrigued? Then click through the gallery to learn more about the strange burial requests of Queen Victoria.

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Sir James Reid

Queen Victoria dictated her lengthy list of burial requests to her personal physician, Sir James Reid. She entrusted him to keep the document a secret until after her death.

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Secrecy and suspicion

Queen Victoria was on bad terms with many people, including some of her nine children, and she believed that they would argue and try to alter her last wishes if they found them. Sir James Reid was responsible for ensuring her requests were carried out to the final letter.

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Eccentric requests

Many of her stranger requests involved items she wanted to have put in her coffin. Reid kept some of these a secret even after the burial because her children would surely have protested if they knew!

The flowers

They managed to hide some of the more controversial and eccentric items by filling her coffin with flowers, and placing a bouquet of flowers in her hands. The royal florist sourced flowers from all over the world, but Queen Victoria left specific instructions for sprigs of heather to be buried with her.

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Heather for John Brown

Heather is a common flower in Scotland and many believe this request was in honor of her suspected Scottish lover, John Brown. She was even buried with a photo of him hidden in her hands.

Queen Victoria and Prince Albert

While Queen Victoria is believed to have had a private love affair with John Brown later in life, she was still extremely devoted to her husband Prince Albert, who died 40 years before her. One of the items she requested to be buried with was a plaster cast of his hand.

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The plaster hand

When Prince Albert died, Queen Victoria was struck with extreme grief and was unable to accept his death. She insisted that his servants continue performing his morning ritual every day, bringing his shaving kit and clothes to his room, and removing the unused items in the evening. She had a plaster cast of his hand made and slept with it every night.

Victorian spiritualism

It’s even believed that Queen Victoria dabbled in the occult in her grief, which wasn’t uncommon at the time. Seances, hypnotism, and crystal readings were extremely popular. Victorian-era spiritualism mixed religion with other more mystical beliefs.

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Even as a child, Queen Victoria wore a locket with a lock of her deceased father's hair inside, as she believed it gave her a connection to him. When she married Prince Albert, she had a locket containing his hair made, and one of her many funeral requests was reportedly to be buried with a locket of John Brown’s hair.

Spirits and the afterlife

Although Queen Victoria is known to have been highly sentimental, some also believed that keepsakes like this would help their souls reunite in the afterlife. Mediums would often request such items to help them connect with the spirits of loved ones.

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Her two loves

Queen Victoria seemed to have no concerns about filling her coffin with dedications to both her husband and her alleged lover, and seemed intent on reuniting with them both after her death.

John Brown passed away in 1883, 18 years before Queen Victoria’s own death. It’s believed she may have had other affairs after his death, but it’s undisputed that Prince Albert was the greatest love of her life, and John Brown the supposed second greatest.

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Mementos of John Brown

Queen Victoria’s children were resentful of her relationship with John Brown and had all memory of him removed from the royal homes after her death, but Dr. Reid was still able to ensure that she was buried with many mementos of him.

White or black

Traditionally, weddings are associated with white, and funerals with black. Queen Victoria wore white for her wedding to Prince Albert, but is most commonly thought of in all black. This is because the majority of photos we have of her were taken after Albert’s death and she stayed in a perpetual state of mourning.

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However, she requested that her funeral be white-themed rather than the traditional black. She was even buried in a white dress and a bridal veil. Many interpret this as a dedication to her marriage, and a sign of her unresolved grief at the loss of her husband.

The wedding rings

To complete her eerie wedding-themed funeral, Queen Victoria was buried with a wedding ring on each hand. One was a wedding ring for Prince Albert, and the other was supposedly for John Brown.

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John Brown's ring

Princess Alice

Princess Alice was one of Queen Victoria’s favorite daughters. She had a close relationship with both her mother and father. She nursed her father throughout his illness and later stepped up to take over her mother’s duties and care for her while she was grieving.

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The embroidered cloak

Princess Alice made an embroidered cloak as a gift for Prince Albert, who wore it proudly for years. Alice sadly contracted diphtheria while nursing soldiers during the Austro-Prussian War and died at the age of 35. Queen Victoria requested to be buried with the cloak that held such deep significance.

The jewelry

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She was buried with rings on every finger, multiple bracelets and necklaces, and jewel-encrusted brooches. Each item had a particular sentimental value to her. Of course, she was also holding onto the plaster cast of Prince Albert’s hand and a photo of John Brown, and somehow also holding a bouquet of flowers to hide it all.

Prince Albert's dressing gown

Prince Albert’s dressing gown was another strange memento of Queen Victoria's husband that was buried with her. This homely item seemed to carry special significance for her and she had insisted that the servants leave it out for Prince Albert every morning after his death.

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The order of the coffin

The heavily laden coffin was arranged as follows: on the bottom was a layer of charcoal, which absorbs dampness and odors from decomposition. On top of the charcoal was Prince Albert’s dressing gown. Queen Victoria’s body was laid directly on top of the dressing gown, and surrounded by all of her other accouterments.

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The final request

One request that Queen Victoria made to her physician shortly before she died was to see her pet dog. Queen Victoria adored dogs all of her life, and by the time of her death her favorite pet was a Pomeranian named Turi. In the end, as was perhaps her final wish, Turi was the one with her when she died.

A funeral fit for a queen

When it came to her funeral, Queen Victoria wanted a ceremony fit for a monarch of her stature. She had ruled for 61 years, a record-setting reign until it was broken by the late Queen Elizabeth II in 2015.

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An untraditional military funeral

Queen Victoria requested a full military funeral. She wanted to have equerries act as her pallbearers, and her coffin was carried on a gun carriage during the elaborate military funeral procession through the streets of London.

Private in life and death

Queen Victoria more or less retired from public life after Prince Albert died and became very private. She didn’t want her body to be laid out for public viewing as is usually the tradition for a monarch.

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The eternal resting place

Instead, she wanted her coffin taken straight from her place of death to St George’s Chapel where her funeral took place. She only allowed for two days of private viewings so her family could pay their respects, but obviously she had quite a bit of loot in her coffin that she didn’t want them to see… Today, she lies in the Royal Mausoleum at the Frogmore Estate in Windsor, side by side with her beloved Prince Albert.

Sources: (History Collection) (Ripley's) (The Guardian)

See also: The royal weddings that changed European history

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