Things to do in Victoria

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Victoria showing skyline, a coastal town and a bay or harbor
Craigdarroch Castle featuring heritage architecture
Butchart Gardens showing a river or creek and a fountain
Victoria featuring a lake or waterhole and a pebble beach
Juan de Fuca Provincial Park showing a park, landscape views and forest scenes

Victoria Attractions

Victoria is one of the most peaceful and attractive cities in British Columbia, Canada. Located on the southern end of Vancouver Island, this city is one of the top spots to enjoy a relaxing weekend getaway or an extended stay. Expedia can save you a great deal of money on Victoria tours by offering you huge discounts on hotel stays, airfare, and car rentals.

One of the best tourist attractions in Victoria is the lovely green space known as the Butchart Gardens. Gorgeous flowers and manicured plants adorn the gardens. Paved walking paths will also lead you past enchanting waterways and unique sculptures.

While visiting Victoria, you simply must see the elegant interior of The Empress. This classic hotel still maintains its old-fashioned charm and even offers afternoon tea and snacks inside its tearoom. Completed in 1908, The Empress still stands as one of the most iconic places in Victoria.

Victoria additionally features other impressive historical buildings. A detailed map of the city will help you locate places like Christ Church Cathedral, Craigdarroch Castle, and the Helmcken House.

Visiting the local cultural spots around the city is another great thing to do while taking Victoria excursions. The Chinatown district features traditional Asian sculptures and other art installations and is the perfect location to learn more about the city’s Chinese immigrants. While totem poles displayed at certain outdoor locations around the city tell the story of the region’s native people.

Finding fun things to do in Victoria is easy when you book through Expedia. Many of the featured hotels are located near some of the best Victoria activities and locations.


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What to do in Victoria

Free Things to Do in Victoria

Some say the best things in life are free. Be sure to explore the following around Victoria:

Mount Douglas Park - Make this place among your first stops if you're chasing fun during your time away.

University of Victoria - This modern-style local landmark is a terrific backdrop for that vacation profile pic.

George Mason's Heritage Home - Come to grips with some of the fascinating history of the region through this site.

Chinatown - This is a vibrant area where you can soak in the vibe and feel the rhythm of the local way of life.

Princess Louisa Inlet - Shut your eyes and draw a deep breath — there's nothing like being by the water for some rest and relaxation.

Market Square - Organize a visit and learn about the significance of this place to the locals.

Christ Church Cathedral - Incorporate a little spirituality into your trip with a stop at this religious site.

Cadboro Bay - Keep a lookout for pretty shells and other little treasures laying along the shoreline here.

West Coast Trail - Contemplate the stark contrast between urban life and nature's rugged beauty at this breathtaking location.

Beacon Hill Park - Whether you know your bamboo from begonias, you'll find beauty in this stunning display.

Things to Do in Victoria with Kids

There's fun for all the family no matter where you wander in Victoria. Here are some family friendly experiences you can do together that will make your vacation memorable:


 

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in Victoria? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

 


 


Discover the most popular places to visit in Victoria

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Victoria

Victoria which includes a city, street scenes and a house

Downtown Victoria

4.5/5(796 area reviews)

Downtown Victoria boasts a lively atmosphere with movie theatres, stage theatres, hotels, and various dining options. Explore tourist attractions like Bastion Square, Centennial Square, and the historic Chinatown.

Downtown Victoria
Victoria Harbour featuring heritage elements and a bay or harbor

Inner Harbour

Spend time at the water’s edge and still be in the city’s core. You’ll find many attractions and things to do while walking in this picturesque area.

Inner Harbour
Victoria showing a coastal town and a marina

James Bay

5/5(513 area reviews)

You can explore vibrant attractions like Beacon Hill Park, Fisherman's Wharf Park, and the Royal British Columbia Museum in this area near Victoria's Inner Harbour. Accessible via Belleville Street and other main roads, it also offers a HeliJet terminal and a US ferries terminal.

James Bay
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Esquimalt

Southern tip of Vancouver Island hosts Esquimalt, a municipality with a rich naval history and heritage sites like Craigflower farmhouse and schoolhouse. Explore the area along the historic Esquimalt and Nanaimo Railway.

Esquimalt
The largest urban forest on the Saanich Peninsula.

Saanich East

4/5(1 area review)

While visiting Saanich East, you might make a stop by sights like Lochside Regional Trail and Cadboro Bay.

Saanich East
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Saanich West

While there might not be top attractions in Saanich West, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Princess Louisa Inlet and Lochside Regional Trail.

Saanich West

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 


 

Popular day trips from Victoria

Frequently asked questions

Is Victoria worth visiting?
Offering a mix of bars and pubs and history, there's no shortage of things to do in Victoria. While you're here, head to Royal BC Museum, a top attraction in the area.
How do I spend a day in Victoria?
Start your day with a visit to Royal BC Museum and Craigdarroch Castle. Then, explore other areas of Victoria for local restaurants and some retail therapy.
What is the top tourist attraction in Victoria?
The top tourist attraction in Victoria is Royal BC Museum, so don't forget to put it on your sightseeing list.
Is three days enough to stay in Victoria?
Three days will give you enough time to tick off popular city attractions, such as Royal BC Museum, Craigdarroch Castle and Victoria Bug Zoo. The average stay in Victoria is two days. If you have the urge to extend your break, Port Angeles isn't far away.
Is Victoria a walkable city?
With exciting neighborhoods and major attractions within walking distance of the city center, Victoria is a good place to tour on foot. Enjoy wandering between Royal BC Museum and Craigdarroch Castle. Then take a stroll around Downtown Victoria, located 0.1 miles from the center, and James Bay, which is roughly 1 mile away.
What are some activities to do in Victoria with kids?
Planning what to do in Victoria with kids has never been so simple. Whether you're vacationing with toddlers or teenagers, there are plenty of family-friendly attractions to keep them busy here.

What to do in Victoria for adults?
There are loads of things to do in Victoria, with activities for adults of all ages. End the day with a visit to de Vine Vineyards or Government Street.
Are there free things to do in Victoria?
In Victoria, Christ Church Cathedral is an unmissable spot for anyone wanting to see the city without taking their wallet out. Also, stroll around the other neighborhoods and green spaces, and ask for ideas from a local tour guide. It's an easy way to find out about the best free things to do in Victoria.