Victoria

The provincial capital on Vancouver Island, known for its charming British colonial architecture, elegant Butchart Gardens, and relaxed West Coast vibe. It's a picturesque waterfront city with excellent museums, afternoon tea culture, and access to whale watching.

Things to do

• Butchart Gardens — Explore 55 acres of stunning themed gardens including the Sunken Garden, Italian Garden, and Japanese Garden, beautifully illuminated in the evening.
• Royal BC Museum — Discover British Columbia's natural history, Indigenous cultures, and colonial past through extensive exhibits and galleries in this world-class institution.
• Whale Watching Tours — Set out on the Pacific Ocean from the Inner Harbour to see orcas, humpback whales, and sea lions in their natural habitat, especially during summer months.
• Parliament Buildings — Tour the impressive Neo-Gothic provincial legislature building illuminated with thousands of lights at night and surrounded by manicured grounds.
• Craigdarroch Castle — Wander through this Victorian mansion with 39 rooms, period furnishings, and panoramic views of the city and strait from its hilltop location.
• Inner Harbour Walk — Stroll along the waterfront promenade lined with restaurants, shops, and street performers while enjoying views of sailboats and the Strait of Juan de Fuca.
• Emily Carr House — Visit the childhood home of renowned Canadian artist Emily Carr, restored to its 1890s Victorian appearance with period rooms and art exhibits.

Food to try

• Afternoon Tea — Experience a quintessential British tradition with tiered trays of scones, sandwiches, and pastries served with tea at hotels like the Fairmont Empress or local tearooms.
• Pacific Salmon — Sample locally-caught wild salmon, typically grilled or smoked, reflecting Victoria's coastal culinary traditions and available at many waterfront restaurants.
• Fresh Dungeness Crab — Enjoy sweet, succulent Dungeness crab caught from local waters, served cracked with lemon or incorporated into pasta and seafood dishes.
• Fish and Chips — Try the West Coast staple with fresh battered fish and hand-cut chips, best enjoyed at casual waterfront venues like Red Fish Blue Fish or local pubs.
• BC Berries — Taste seasonal desserts and preserves featuring local berries like marionberries, blackcap raspberries, and wild blueberries found throughout the region.

Local customs & good to know

• Dress for Layers — Victoria's coastal weather is cool and unpredictable year-round, so bring a jacket and layers even in summer to stay comfortable throughout the day.
• British Colonial Influence — The city maintains strong British traditions in its architecture, afternoon tea culture, double-decker buses, and driving on the left-hand side of streets, reflecting its heritage.
• Respect Indigenous Territories — Victoria is located on the traditional lands of the Lekwungen and other First Nations peoples; many museums and sites honor Indigenous history and contributions to the region.
• Slower Pace of Life — Victoria embraces a relaxed West Coast rhythm with an emphasis on outdoor activities, nature, and leisure rather than rushing, so plan to slow down and enjoy the surroundings.