15 Things To Do in Victoria, Canada
All-in-1 Guide
This blog post contains affiliate links, which means we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you if you make a purchase through these links. Your support helps keep our content free and allows us to continue sharing valuable tips and resources for your RV adventures. Thank you for supporting us!
15 Things To Do in Victoria, Canada: The Ultimate Guide for 2025
Victoria, British Columbia, is a vibrant coastal city on Vancouver Island that blends old-world charm with modern adventure. Whether you’re a first-time visitor, a cruise passenger, or a local looking for things to do in Victoria, BC today, this guide covers the top attractions, free activities, and answers to the most searched questions about Victoria, Canada.
Table of Contents
- Is Victoria, Canada Worth Visiting?
- How to Spend 3 Days in Victoria, BC
- What to Do in Victoria, Canada Cruise Port
- What Is the Best Month to Visit Victoria, Canada?
- Top 15 Things to Do in Victoria, Canada
- Free Things to Do in Victoria, Canada
- Things to Do in Victoria, Canada for Adults
- Things to Do in Victoria, Canada with Kids
- Unusual Things to Do in Victoria, BC
- Things to Do in Victoria at Night
- Top 10 Places to Visit in Victoria, BC
1. Is Victoria, Canada Worth Visiting?
Absolutely—Victoria is consistently ranked among Canada’s most beautiful and livable cities. Visitors are drawn to its historic architecture, lush gardens, vibrant food scene, and welcoming atmosphere. The city is known for its mild climate, making it a year-round destination. Whether you’re a family, a couple, or a solo traveler, you’ll find plenty to do, from exploring world-class museums to enjoying fresh seafood and lively nightlife.
2. How to Spend 3 Days in Victoria, BC
Day 1: Downtown & Inner Harbour
- Walk the Inner Harbour and snap photos of the Parliament Buildings and Fairmont Empress Hotel.
- Visit the Royal BC Museum, a top-rated attraction for history and culture lovers.
- Enjoy afternoon tea at the Empress or a harborfront café.
- Stroll through historic Chinatown and Fan Tan Alley, the narrowest street in Canada (& North Ameria).
Day 2: Nature & Adventure
- Take a whale watching tour for a chance to see orcas, humpbacks, and sea lions.
- Wander through Beacon Hill Park, a sprawling urban oasis with gardens, ponds, and a petting zoo.
- Explore Fisherman’s Wharf, a colorful floating village with food kiosks and eco-tours.
Day 3: Gardens & Castles
- Marvel at the world-famous Butchart Gardens, especially beautiful in spring and summer.
- Tour Craigdarroch Castle, a Victorian-era mansion with stunning architecture and city views.
- End your day with a sunset walk along Dallas Road or a visit to a local brewery.
3. What to Do in Victoria, Canada Cruise Port
Cruise ships dock at Ogden Point, about 3 km from downtown Victoria. From the port, you can:
- Walk or take a taxi to the Inner Harbour (30–40 minutes on foot).
- Explore the Parliament Buildings, Royal BC Museum, and Fisherman’s Wharf—all within easy reach.
- Join a guided food, history, or ghost tour.
- Try high tea at the Empress Hotel or sample fresh seafood at the wharf.
4. What Is the Best Month to Visit Victoria, Canada?
The best times to visit Victoria are March to May and September to November. Spring brings cherry blossoms and mild weather, while fall offers pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds. Summer (June–August) is warm and lively, but also the busiest and most expensive. Winter is mild by Canadian standards, with fewer tourists and lower prices.
5. Top 15 Things to Do in Victoria, Canada
1. Stroll the Inner Harbour
The heart of Victoria, the Inner Harbour is lined with historic buildings, shops, and restaurants. It’s perfect for people-watching, photography, and catching street performers.
2. Visit the Royal BC Museum
Discover British Columbia’s natural and human history through engaging exhibits, including Indigenous culture and dinosaur fossils.
3. Tour the Parliament Buildings
Take a free guided tour of these iconic buildings, beautifully lit at night and surrounded by lush gardens.
4. Explore Butchart Gardens
A must-see for garden lovers, featuring 55 acres of floral displays, walking paths, and themed gardens. Best visited in spring or summer.
5. Walk Through Beacon Hill Park
A 200-acre park with gardens, ponds, playgrounds, and a petting zoo. Ideal for families and nature lovers.
6. Experience Fisherman’s Wharf
A floating village with colorful houseboats, seafood kiosks, and eco-adventure tours. Don’t miss the seals and river otters.
7. Wander Chinatown & Fan Tan Alley
Explore Canada’s oldest Chinatown and the quirky, narrow Fan Tan Alley, filled with boutiques and art galleries.
8. Go Whale Watching
Victoria is one of the world’s best places to see orcas, humpbacks, and gray whales. Tours run March–October, with orcas visible year-round.
9. Tour Craigdarroch Castle
Step back in time at this grand Victorian mansion, filled with period furnishings and fascinating stories.
10. Enjoy Afternoon Tea at the Empress
Indulge in a classic British tradition at the Fairmont Empress Hotel, a Victoria icon since 1908.
11. Check Out Thunderbird Park Totem Poles
Admire Indigenous totem poles and monuments near the Royal BC Museum, a free and educational stop.
12. Visit the Victoria Bug Zoo
A favorite for families, this unique attraction lets you get up close with exotic insects and arachnids.
13. Stroll Dallas Road & Ogden Point Breakwater
Enjoy panoramic ocean views, public art murals, and the fresh sea breeze along this scenic waterfront path.
14. Explore Market Square & Lower Johnson Street
Shop for local goods, enjoy live music, and soak up the vibrant atmosphere in this historic district.
15. Take a Brewery or Pub Tour
Victoria’s craft beer scene is thriving, with guided tours and self-guided crawls through historic pubs and modern breweries.
6. Free Things to Do in Victoria, Canada
Victoria offers plenty of free attractions for budget travelers:
- Walk the Inner Harbour - Scenic waterfront strolls, public art, and lively atmosphere
- Beacon Hill Park - Gardens, ponds, playgrounds, and wildlife
- Parliament Buildings Tour - Free guided tours daily
- Fisherman’s Wharf - Explore floating homes and watch for seals
- Chinatown & Fan Tan Alley - Historic streets, shops, and art
- Thunderbird Park Totem Poles - Indigenous art and history
- Dallas Road Waterfront - Ocean views and murals
- Legacy Art Gallery (Yates St) - Free entry on select days
- Songhees Walkway - Scenic path with wildlife spotting
- Moss Street Market (seasonal) - Local crafts and produce
7. Things to Do in Victoria, Canada for Adults
- Wine & Food Tours: Sample local wines and gourmet bites on guided tours.
- Pub Crawls & Breweries: Explore Victoria’s historic pubs and modern breweries.
- Ghost Tours: Discover the city’s haunted history on a spooky walking tour.
- Live Music & Jazz Clubs: Enjoy a night out at Hermann’s Jazz Club or catch local bands downtown.
- Seaplane Tours: Get a bird’s-eye view of the city and coastline.
8. Things to Do in Victoria, Canada with Kids
- Royal BC Museum & IMAX: Interactive exhibits and a giant screen theater.
- Beacon Hill Children’s Farm: Meet goats, pigs, and peacocks in the park.
- Victoria Bug Zoo: Hands-on learning about insects and arachnids.
- Miniature World: Over 85 tiny dioramas inside the Empress Hotel.
- Maritime Museum of BC: Interactive activities about local marine history.
9. Unusual Things to Do in Victoria, BC
- Thunderbird Park Totem Poles: Learn about Indigenous culture and art.
- Ogden Point Unity Wall Murals: Canada’s largest mural, honoring local First Nations.
- Victoria Bug Zoo: Hold a tarantula or giant stick insect.
- Fan Tan Alley: Explore the narrowest commercial street in North America.
- Christ Church Cathedral: Tour one of Canada’s largest Gothic churches.
10. Things to Do in Victoria at Night
- Stroll the Illuminated Inner Harbour: Parliament Buildings and the Empress Hotel light up after dark.
- Hermann’s Jazz Club: Live music and dancing in a historic venue.
- Ghost Tours: Explore haunted sites and hear spooky stories.
- Nighttime Whale Watching: Sunset tours offer magical views and wildlife sightings.
- Pagliacci’s Restaurant: Enjoy live music and late-night dining downtown.
11. Top 10 Places to Visit in Victoria, BC
- Inner Harbour
- Royal BC Museum
- Butchart Gardens
- Parliament Buildings
- Beacon Hill Park
- Fisherman’s Wharf
- Chinatown & Fan Tan Alley
- Craigdarroch Castle
- Dallas Road & Ogden Point
- Market Square & Lower Johnson Street
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Victoria, Canada Worth Visiting?
Yes! Victoria is a unique blend of historic charm, natural beauty, and vibrant culture. There’s something for everyone, from gardens and museums to nightlife and outdoor adventure.
How to Spend 3 Days in Victoria, BC?
Spend Day 1 exploring downtown and the Inner Harbour, Day 2 enjoying nature and local parks, and Day 3 visiting gardens and castles. Don’t miss whale watching, afternoon tea, and the city’s lively food scene.
What to Do in Victoria, Canada Cruise Port?
Walk or taxi to downtown, visit the Parliament Buildings, Royal BC Museum, and Fisherman’s Wharf. Try high tea or a local food tour, and enjoy the vibrant waterfront.
What Is the Best Month to Visit Victoria, Canada?
March–May and September–November offer the best weather and fewer crowds. Summer is warm and lively, while winter is mild and budget-friendly.
Conclusion
Victoria, BC, is a city that truly has it all: stunning natural scenery, rich history, a thriving arts and food scene, and endless activities for every traveler. Whether you’re seeking free things to do in Victoria, Canada, or planning a family adventure, romantic getaway, or cruise stop, this city will exceed your expectations. Start planning your trip and discover why Victoria is one of Canada’s top travel destinations.
Comments
Related Articles
Travel & hiking tips, product reviews, and more!
Share this page
Recommended
Crochet tips & tricks, pattern collections, and more!
