Victoria's historic city centre surrounds the picturesque Inner Harbour where seaplanes land beside the iconic ivy-covered Empress Hotel. Cobblestone paths wind past the Royal BC Museum's towering totem poles while street musicians fill the air. Horse-drawn carriages clip-clop through streets lined with Victorian lampposts and colourful hanging flower baskets. This walkable district puts British colonial heritage on display through well-preserved architecture and maritime traditions. Most attractions sit within ten easy blocks of each other. The area blends high-end shopping on Government Street with authentic Indigenous art galleries and British-inspired pubs.
James Bay offers a peaceful escape with charming heritage homes just steps from Victoria's scenic harbour. The area balances quiet residential streets with bustling waterfront attractions like Fisherman's Wharf and its colourful floating homes. You'll find picturesque gardens throughout this walkable district that borders the Strait of Juan de Fuca. Stroll along Dallas Road's waterfront promenade for stunning views of the Olympic Mountains. The iconic copper-domed Parliament Buildings and Emily Carr House showcase the area's rich architectural history. Local cafes and seafood vendors provide perfect spots to relax after exploring the Inner Harbour's seaplanes and sailboats.
Fairfield borders Victoria's spectacular Beacon Hill Park, a 200-acre paradise with gardens, ponds, and wandering peacocks. This historic area invites exploration with tree-lined streets and heritage Victorian homes. Dallas Road waterfront offers dramatic ocean vistas where you can spot wildlife along the shore. Cook Street Village forms the neighborhood's charming heart with artisanal coffee shops and local boutiques. The peaceful residential atmosphere makes Fairfield perfect for travellers seeking authentic local experiences. Excellent walking paths connect the area's many green spaces and beaches.
Fernwood invites you to experience local Victoria life through its artistic soul and community spirit. Colourful murals brighten heritage buildings while the Belfry Theatre anchors the neighborhood's creative scene. Monthly art walks transform streets into vibrant outdoor galleries that showcase local talent. Tree-lined streets connect charming Craftsman-style homes with independent cafes and artisan shops. Fernwood Square buzzes with community events where visitors can mingle with friendly locals. City centre Victoria is just a quick 10-minute transit ride away when you're ready to explore the harbour.
Victoria's Inner Harbour captivates visitors with its stunning waterfront promenade and historic charm. The iconic Fairmont Empress Hotel and copper-domed Parliament Buildings create a postcard-perfect backdrop for harbour activities. Street performers entertain crowds while seaplanes gracefully land on sparkling waters. Explore well-preserved heritage buildings or browse local shops along Government Street. The Royal BC Museum and towering totem poles at Thunderbird Park offer cultural insights. Water taxis and harbour ferries provide scenic transport options for experiencing this pedestrian-friendly district.
Discover the most popular places to visit in Victoria
Government Street
9.2/10 (7,319 reviews)
Victoria's iconic thoroughfare displays historical architecture alongside vibrant shops and cultural landmarks. Stroll tree-lined pavements connecting Inner Harbour to old town, exploring boutiques and Parliament Buildings.
British Columbia Parliament Building
9.2/10 (6,172 reviews)
Victoria's iconic neo-baroque Parliament Buildings grace the Inner Harbour with ornate splendour. Take a free guided tour through the legislative halls, then visit the Parliamentary Dining Room for lunch.
Royal BC Museum
9.0/10 (4,463 reviews)
Immerse yourself in British Columbia's natural and human history through dioramas and Indigenous artefacts. Book ahead to explore the museum's exhibits and catch an IMAX film that brings the region's heritage to life.
Save-On-Foods Memorial Centre
8.2/10 (825 reviews)
Victoria's premier entertainment venue hosts WHL hockey and major concerts in a state-of-the-art 7,000-seat arena. Enhance your experience with pre-event dining at the Lion's Den Restaurant overlooking the ice surface.
Hatley Castle
8.8/10 (142 reviews)
Explore the grand Edwardian architecture of Hatley Castle, famous for its role in X-Men films. Wander through Italian, Japanese, and Rose Gardens with views of Esquimalt Lagoon and Olympic Mountains.
Victoria Conference Centre
8.2/10 (504 reviews)
This modern conference centre showcases Indigenous art while offering 77,000 square feet of meeting space. Adjacent to the Fairmont Empress Hotel, it places visitors steps from Victoria's scenic harbour and city centre.
Chinatown
8.6/10 (3,496 reviews)
Victoria's Chinatown holds the distinction of being Canada's oldest and North America's second oldest Chinatown. Wander through Fan Tan Alley, Canada's narrowest street, lined with boutique shops and authentic cuisine.
Goldstream Provincial Park
8.6/10 (20 reviews)
Witness nature's drama as thousands of salmon battle upstream while bald eagles soar overhead during fall spawning season. Hike through ancient rainforest trails to discover the park's majestic Niagara Falls waterfall.
"The hotel was absolutely lovely. We got a free upgrade to an amazing suite. Room service workers were so nice and patient. The front desk was polite and helpful. The dishwasher doesn't work that well but that's barely a complaint."
"Nice rooms and good location.
The reason I didn’t give 5/5 was the single lift/elevator that was always busy and the constant line when you needed the front desk."
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
You'll find cheap prices on Expedia for your Victoria break. However, factors like your choice of hotel, the season and length of stay will influence how much your holiday to Victoria costs.
What are the cheapest months to go to Victoria?
You can typically find lower prices and greater availability in January, February and November. Take a look at our cheap Victoria holiday packages and you could get some excellent off-season deals.
How many days is enough for Victoria?
To get the most out of your Victoria holiday, we recommend staying for 2 days. Split your time between visiting Victoria Bug Zoo, Victoria Royal Theatre and other major sights, as well as experiencing neighbourhoods like Downtown Victoria and James Bay. If you've got some time to spare, add a tour or day trip to your Victoria holiday itinerary.
Is it worth booking a holiday package to Victoria?
Whether you're looking to explore key attractions like Victoria Fisherman's Wharf and Royal BC Museum on your Victoria holiday, or coming for its great history, dining and bars and pubs, there's something for everyone here. With so many things to do, you'll soon learn why so many visitors think Victoria is a good holiday destination.
How to find the best Victoria package deals?
Use Expedia's filters to find some great Victoria package deals. When you start your search, just set your maximum budget and then order the results by "Price: low to high." If you want to save, plan your adventure for midweek, or search for Victoria package deals in the off-peak season. Play around with your travel dates and you may score even bigger discounts. As a rule of thumb, it's usually best to lock in your holiday package as soon as possible.
Is it cheaper to book a Victoria holiday as a package?
You can enjoy significant savings on your next Victoria escape by booking a customised holiday package. Check the "Package" heading, then enter your destination and travel dates to browse some great hotel prices and airfares. Bundle everything into a neat package and you can save hundreds of dollars. Consider adding a rental car and you may score a better deal.
When to book a holiday package to Victoria?
If you're planning a spontaneous Victoria adventure, check out our last-minute deals that can be booked up to a week before you go. Prefer not to wait until the last minute? You can find awesome deals on your hotels and flights by booking well in advance.
How to plan a trip to Victoria?
Choose the ideal time to travel: Your schedule, preferred season and the type of weather you enjoy can all impact your decision on when to visit Victoria.
Set a budget: Factor in expenses such as flights, meals and transportation when calculating how much to save for your trip to Victoria. Then, pick a hotel that fits your budget, whether that's a wallet-friendly option or a swankier getaway.
Work out your trip length: Consider how long you'd like to spend discovering Victoria. Plan your itinerary so you can get to all the activities and attractions you're interested in at a comfortable pace.
Bundle your airfare and accommodation: After you've nailed down your travel dates and duration, lock in the right Victoria holiday package for you.
In Victoria, visit Uptown Centre for a vibrant shopping experience with a mix of entertainment and family-friendly vibes. Market Square offers a charming public market atmosphere, while Victoria Public Market features local businesses and city energy. If you're up for a drive, check out the wider shopping options nearby.
Recreation
Experience rejuvenation at Crystal Pool and Fitness Centre, where wellness and relaxation meet. Enjoy invigorating workouts or unwind in tranquil settings. At Royal Athletic Park, feel the excitement of live sports events, while the Victoria Royal Theatre offers a cultural escape with romantic performances and family-friendly entertainment.
Adventure
Experience the thrill of Miniature World’s arcadeAdventureZone, where family fun meets adventure vibes. Hike the scenic West Coast Trail, immersing yourself in breathtaking outdoor beauty. For adrenaline seekers, try bungee jumping at WildPlay West Shore Victoria, guaranteed to get your heart racing amidst stunning surroundings.
Nightlife
Victoria's nightlife is vibrant, with a mix of pubs and live music venues. Visit the Bard & Banker for a lively atmosphere and enjoy their extensive drinks menu. For dancing, head to Club 9one9, where you can groove to local DJs and enjoy a fantastic night out.
Find the best attractions in Victoria
Victoria, British Columbia, is an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts and families seeking a beach holiday. The city boasts a variety of attractions, including urban parks, modern colleges, and vibrant streets, all offering a blend of culture and outdoor experiences. Visitors can explore the local charm and engage in activities that highlight the city's unique character, making it a perfect spot for an enjoyable vacation.
Government Street: Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Government Street, where you can explore a variety of shops, cafés, and local art. This bustling street reflects the heart of Victoria's city life, making it perfect for leisurely strolls and cultural encounters.
Royal BC Museum: Experience the rich heritage of British Columbia at the Royal BC Museum. With engaging exhibits on natural history and cultural displays, it’s an ideal spot for families and visitors keen on understanding the region's diverse history.
British Columbia Parliament Building: Marvel at the stunning architecture of the British Columbia Parliament Building. This historical site offers guided tours that reveal the fascinating story of the province's governance and its cultural significance.
Best time to go to Victoria
The best time to visit Victoria can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Victoria falls in August, when visitor numbers are moderately high and weather is sunny with no rain. The coolest average temperature in Victoria falls in December, visitor numbers are moderately low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.
Tips to save on your trip to Victoria
Combine your flights, hotels and car rentals on Expedia—bundling can result in significant savings.
Consider traveling during the off-peak season (typically January to February and November) for more affordable package holidays to Victoria.
Use the Price per traveler filter on Expedia to find a package deal that suits your budget.
Check the VIP Access properties filter to discover outstanding hotels with added member perks at select properties.
* Savings based on package bookings compared to the price of the same components booked separately. Savings not available on all packages.