Historical things to do in Victoria BC

3 Days in Victoria, BC: Everything You Need To Know

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Located on the southern end of Vancouver Island, Victoria is arguably one of the prettiest cities in Canada. While Victoria is best known for its gorgeous gardens and historic architecture, it’s also a very vibrant and lively city which blends the old and new perfectly. I spent 3 days in Victoria, BC, last year for the first time and quickly fell in love with the city. Victoria is one of Canada’s most English cities and you can see a mix of British and European influence in the city’s architecture.

With an abundance of history, beautiful natural surroundings, and a thriving cultural scene, Victoria is a great weekend escape from Vancouver. I’ve put together this 3-day Victoria itinerary for first-time visitors who want to see the popular attractions but also discover some local gems. This guide also includes tips on when to visit and where to stay to help you make the most of your three-day getaway to Victoria.

Been there? Done that? If you’ve visited Victoria before and have already seen the top attractions, you can find lots more fun and offbeat things to do in my Victoria travel guide.   

BOOKING / If this article helps you travel, please consider booking your trip via the links on this page. This means I’ll receive a small commission at no extra cost to you and helps me to keep the blog running. Thank you in advance for your support – Steph

3 DAYS IN VICTORIA: PLANNING YOUR TRIP

How to get to Victoria from Vancouver

BY CAR

Most of the main attractions are located in downtown Victoria and are within walking distance of one and other. However, some of the places on this 3-day Victoria itinerary are further afield. Victoria does have a very good public transport network but having your own car does give you more flexibility to explore Greater Victoria.

From Vancouver, take the ferry from Tsawwassen ferry terminal to Victoria’s Swartz Bay terminal. Once you get off the ferry, it’s a short drive to Victoria via Highway 17 (Patricia Bay Highway). The whole trip usually takes around 3 hours.  

CAR HIRE

I personally use Auto Europe as they have great rates. You can compare all the major companies in a grid format that shows the prices for different car sizes by provider. If you need any help, their 24/7 customer service is very good.

BY AIR

Air Canada and WestJet offer regular flights from Vancouver to Victoria. If you’re coming from downtown Vancouver, you can actually fly directly into Victoria’s Inner Harbour with Helijet or Harbour Air. These helicopters and float planes offer incredible views of the Vancouver city and the Gulf Islands as you fly into Victoria. The flight only takes 35 minutes so it’s a very convenient option if you only have 3 days in Victoria and want to make the most of your trip.   

BY PUBLIC TRANSIT

If you don’t want to drive or fly, don’t worry – it’s easy to get from Vancouver to Victoria by public transit:

  • TransLink: From downtown Vancouver, take the SkyTrain (Canada Line) to Bridgeport Station and take bus #620 to the Tsawwassen Ferry Terminal. When you get to Swartz Bay, take bus #70 to downtown Victoria.
  • BC Ferries Connector: If you don’t want the hassle of changing buses, the BC Ferries Connector is a great way to get to Victoria from Vancouver. The bus departs from Pacific Central Station in Vancouver and drops you off at Victoria Bus Station in the heart of downtown. The ticket includes your ferry fare so you don’t need to purchase one yourself.

How to get to Victoria from other destinations 

Depending on where you’re travelling from, you may be able to fly directly to Victoria International Airport. There are regular flights to and from Calgary, Edmonton, Prince George, Kelowna, Toronto, Seattle and more. The airport is located 35 minutes away from downtown Victoria in North Saanich (approximately 15 miles/ 25 km). You can find information on flight times on Victoria International Airport’s website.

TRAVELLING TO VICTORIA FROM SEATTLE?

If you’re visiting from Seattle, you can fly to Victoria’s International Airport or you can choose a more exciting option:

  • Take the seaplane from Seattle to Victoria: Kenmore Air flies from Lake Union or Kenmore Air Harbour directly into Victoria’s Inner Harbour in just 45 minutes.
  • Catch the Victoria Clipper from Seattle to Victoria: This is a lovely and relaxing way to get to Victoria. The two hour boat trip departs from downtown Seattle and arrives into the Belleville Terminal in Victoria’s Inner Harbour.
3 Days in Victoria BC - How to get there

How to get around

A lot of Victoria’s popular attractions are located close together in the historic downtown area. For convenience, I’ve included them all on day one of this itinerary so you can spend the day exploring on foot. Alternatively, you could hire a bike and cycle around the downtown area. Victoria is a lovely city to explore by bike and has a great network of off-street bike paths. There are plenty of places that offer daily bike rentals, including electric bikes. Check with your hotel if this is something they offer as that is usually the most convenient option.

You will need a car to get to some places on this 3-day Victoria itinerary as they are located further afield. If you’re travelling without a car, you can use public transport but you may need to modify this itinerary based on public transit schedules. Victoria doesn’t have a subway or underground train system but it does have a comprehensive bus network. You can pay for individual journeys but the most affordable option is to buy the BC Transit Day Pass which gives you unlimited travel throughout the day. 

The Hop-On Hop-Off bus is another great option if you’re travelling to Victoria without a car. It will take you to most of the main sights and you can simply get on and off wherever you like. There is also audio commentary on board so you can learn more about the history of the city and the different iconic sights.  

The best time to visit

Victoria’s sub-Mediterranean climate means that it has some of the mildest weather in Canada. Thanks to the Olympic Mountains, Victoria gets significantly less rainfall than its neighbours, Vancouver and Seattle. As a result, it’s a great place to visit all year round and each season offers a different experience. 

In spring, the weather is beginning to warm up and is fairly dry. The city’s gardens burst into life and the streets turn shades of pink as cherry blossoms bloom all across the city. Summer is the best time to visit for outdoor activities. The weather is lovely and warm with little rain so it’s an ideal time for hiking and cycling. It’s also a great time to see migratory whales as they make their way through the waters of the Salish Sea and the North Pacific. Unsurprisingly, summer is the busiest time to visit Victoria and accommodation can be very expensive so book in advance to get the best prices.

Fall is a gorgeous time to visit Victoria as the trees change colour but it can get quite chilly in the evening and you should expect more rain. Winter in Victoria is magical. Although the city gets very little snowfall, it still becomes a winter wonderland with the festive lights and Christmas activities. There is normally quite a bit of rain but it doesn’t get too cold in comparison to other places in British Columbia. 

How to spend 3 days in Victoria BC

WHERE TO STAY IN VICTORIA, BC

Victoria has plenty of luxury hotels, grand guesthouses and chic apartments to suit every budget. Here are the places I’ve stayed on my last 3 trips to Victoria which I would highly recommend.

BOOKING YOUR TRIP / If you book your trip via my hotel links I will earn a small commission at no extra cost to you, which helps me keep this blog running. Thank you – Steph.
FAIRMONT EMpress

The Empress is the epitome of elegance. Located directly across from the inner harbour, the Empress has been Victoria’s most iconic hotel since 1908. Book a signature West Coast spa treatment at the lovely Willow Stream Spa, before sitting down to enjoy the hotel’s world famous Afternoon Tea in the Lobby Lounge. If you’re planning a special trip, book a harbour view room for the quintessential Victoria experience.

Oak Bay Beach Resort

This luxury boutique resort overlooks the Juan de Fuca Strait. On a clear day, you can even see snow-capped Mount Baker in the distance. Located in Oak Bay, it’s a 15-minute drive from downtown Victoria. The best part? The hotel’s spa has three heated outdoor mineral pools right next to the ocean so you can soak in the incredible views (pun intended!)

Helm’s Inn

Situated at the southern end of downtown close to Beacon Hill Park, Helm’s Inn is an all-suite mid-range hotel. The suites are simple but the location makes it very good value for money.

3 DAYS IN VICTORIA, BC

With its historic buildings, beautiful gardens, and thriving arts and cultural scene, Victoria is the perfect city break. There is so much to see and do but 3 days in Victoria will give you plenty of time to explore the main attractions downtown and venture further afield.

Day 1

The best way to kick off your 3 days in Victoria is by exploring the downtown area. This is where you’ll find many of Victoria’s most popular attractions and will give you a great feel for the city.

Explore the Inner Harbour

Victoria’s Inner Harbour is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. You’ve probably seen photos of the Inner Harbour’s marina with the impressive Parliament Buildings in the background. This is the most popular section of the Inner Harbour and is incredibly picturesque with the colourful flowerbeds. In summer, this little stretch in front of the Fairmont Empress gets very busy so try to visit first thing in the morning when it’s quieter and more peaceful.

Check out British Columbia’s Parliament Buildings

Overlooking Victoria’s Inner Harbour, the Parliament Buildings are one of Victoria’s most recognized landmarks. They were designed by Francis Rattenbury and blend Baroque and Romanesque architectural styles. The first time I saw the buildings, they reminded me of the cathedral in berlin (Berliner Dom) which is a beautiful example of Baroque architecture.

Most visitors just admire the buildings from the outside but you can actually go inside for a closer look. The Parliament Buildings are open to the public from 8:30am to 4:30pm on weekdays. You can walk around on your own or join a free guided tour. They only last approximately 30 minutes so it’s a great way to learn about the province’s history, Canada’s political system, as well as fun facts about historical figures! You can find out more information on the Legislative Assembly’s website.

Inner Harbour Victoria BC

Step back in time at the Royal BC Museum

Located just minutes away from the Parliament Buildings, the Royal British Columbia Museum has a number of interactive exhibitions and collections. Learn about orcas, natural history and the West Coast’s Indigenous culture. The museum also has an amazing collection of totem poles in the First Peoples’ Gallery which are fascinating to see up close. The museum is open every day from 10am until 6pm.

Discover Canada’s oldest Chinatown

Victoria is home to the oldest Chinatown in Canada and the second oldest in North America after San Francisco. Designated a National Historic Site in 1995, Chinatown is a testament to the traditions and culture of the Chinese people that immigrated to Canada over 150 years ago. Today, it is home to a diverse mix of businesses. As you walk along Fisguard Street, the hub of Chinatown, you’ll discover grocery stores stocked with imported Asian ingredients and quirky shops selling unique items. There is also a mix of traditional and trendy restaurants where you can taste authentic Chinese dishes. 

Although it’s quite small, there is still plenty to discover. Start at the Gate of Harmonious Interest, the ornate and striking arch which marks the entrance to Chinatown. Make your way down Fisguard Street and explore the maze of narrow alleys. The most famous of all is Fan Tan Alley. This red brick alley is one of Canada’s narrowest streets and is lined with little boutique shops.

3 days in Victoria BC - Fan Tan Alley

Grab some lunch at Market Square

Located in the Old Town, Market Square is made up of stunning red brick heritage buildings that surround an open courtyard. There are lots of little boutiques, cafes and restaurants so it’s a great place to grab some lunch. The square has an amazing array of dine-in and take-out options. From authentic Neapolitan pizza (Famoso Pizzeria), to modern Mexican dishes (Café Mexico’s), you’re bound to find something delicious to eat. If you have a bit of a sweet tooth, stop by Wannawafel for Belgian-inspired waffles!       

Check out the shops on Lower Johnson Street

After you’ve finished lunch, pop into some of the shops on Lower Johnson Street which is located outside the entrance to Market Square. Affectionately known as LoJo by locals, the street is lined with a mix of red brick and brightly coloured Victorian-style buildings. Here you’ll find trendy boutiques and independent shops, such as Still Life Boutique, John Fluevog Shoes and Suasion.

Once you’ve finished browsing, cross over the modern Johnson Street Bridge towards Victoria West where you’ll find the start of the Songhees Walkway.

Lower Johnson Street Victoria BC

Wander along Songhees Walkway

The Songhees Walkway is a short but beautiful trail with lovely views of the Inner Harbour. It’s a great way to escape the crowds that conjugate around the marina and get a different perspective of the city. The 1.8 mile (3 km) trail winds around the Inner Harbour and is flat and paved. There are often herons perched on the rocks and seals swimming in the water so keep your eyes peeled! As you walk along the trail, you’ll see the seaplanes land and take off. There are plenty of benches along the trail where you can sit and relax. If you want to get a coffee after lunch, Boom & Batten Restaurant and Café is a lovely place to stop for one.

Explore the Old Town

Head back into the downtown area and spend some time exploring the Old Town before dinner. Victoria has one of the largest historic areas in British Columbia and is home to some beautiful buildings. The Old Town is actually made up of three distinct areas; the old commercial district, Chinatown, and the historic warehouse buildings and hotels along the waterfront.

You can get a free map in the Visitor Centre which has lots of information about the Old Town, including the locations of the various historic buildings. Here are a few places that you might want to check out:

  • Trounce Alley: This charismatic alleyway still has the authentic gaslights that were put up over 125 years ago
  • Bastion Square: Located in the heart of the Old Town, this square was once the original site of old Fort Victoria
  • Waddington Alley: This is the last ‘wooden street’ in Victoria made of wooden bricks and a metal carriage curb
Bastion Square Victoria BC

Dinner at 10 Acres

With a flourishing food scene, you’ll be spoilt for choice during your 3 days in Victoria, BC. There are so many lovely restaurants but I highly recommend dining at 10 Acres on one of the evenings. Offering farm-to-table dining, 10 Acres serves seasonal dishes with ingredients grown at their 10 Acres Farm. They also work with local producers such as Berryman Farms and Country Bee Honey Farm to name a few. The bistro itself is gorgeous. The atrium is decorated with hanging plants giving it an earthy, garden-like vibe, while the restaurant itself has a cozy and homely feel.

Cocktails at the Fairmont Empress

After dinner, head to the Fairmont Empress to end the night in style. Named as one of Canada’s 50 Best Bars by Canada’s 100 Best back in 2020, the hotel’s Q Bar is an elegant venue with a contemporary feel. Grab some seats at the bar and enjoy some creative cocktails, many of which are made with the island’s signature Empress 1908 Gin. Inspired by the hotel itself, this indigo-coloured gin turns lavender or bright fuchsia depending on the mixer you add. If there is space, try and sit outside on the terrace where you’ll have a lovely view of the Parliament Buildings lit up.

Parliament Buildings in Victoria BC at night

DAY 2

Today you’ll be exploring Greater Victoria. Home to sandy beaches, beautiful provincial parks, and vast farmlands, this diverse area is made up of a number of communities. It stretches from North Saanich and Sidney in the north, to Oak Bay and Langford in the south.

Visit the Butchart Gardens

Start your day with a trip to the world-famous Butchart Gardens. Nicknamed ‘the Garden City’, Victoria has so many beautiful parks and gardens but the Butchart Gardens is undoubtedly the most iconic. The gardens are located 20 km north of downtown Victoria and are open all year round. There are 5 different gardens to explore which span a total of 55 acres. The Sunken Garden was the first garden planted and dates back to 1904. There is also a Rose Garden, Italian Garden, Mediterranean Garden and a Japanese Garden (my personal favourite).

The easiest way to visit the gardens is by car; however, if you’re visiting Victoria without a car you can still get to the gardens via public transit. Alternatively, you can book a bus tour which is actually quite reasonable as it includes transportation, as well as the entrance fee to the gardens. You’ll have a professional guide on the bus but once you arrive at the gardens, you can explore on your own. This is a great option if you don’t want the hassle of figuring out bus schedules.

Butchart Gardens Victoria BC

Explore some of the nearby hiking trails

The Butchart Gardens are located close to some of Greater Victoria’s best hiking trails. Mount Wok Regional Park and Gowlland Tod Provincial Park are just a short drive from the gardens. There are a number of easy hikes such as Durrance Lake and Cole Hill Loop in Mount Wok and the Tod Inlet trail in Gowlland Tod Provincial Park. If you’re looking for something more challenging try the Mount Wok Summit trail or Jocelyn Hill in Gowlland Tod Provincial Park. The latter has some stunning views over the Saanich Inlet.

Or try some farm-to-table dining on the Saanich Peninsula

If you’re planning to have a relaxing 3 days in Victoria and don’t fancy hiking, explore the Saanich Peninsula instead. Known as Vancouver Island’s Provence, the peninsula is home to rolling farmlands, vineyards and sweeping valley views. It has spectacular farm-to-table restaurants and bakeries, as well as local wineries and cideries.

Visit Sea Cider Farm and Ciderhouse for lunch and sample some of the local ciders on the patio overlooking the Haro Straight. You can also book a tour and learn about Sea Cider’s approach to cider making and apple growing.

Next, head to the nearby Roost Vineyard Bistro and Farm Bakery and sample some of their diverse wines. If you’re not full from lunch, order a wine-paired charcuterie board and enjoy some local cheeses and meats.

Saanich Peninsula Farmland
Credit: Destination Greater Victoria and Deddeda Stemler

Stop by Oak Bay

On your way back from Saanich, stop by Oak Bay. Named after the Garry Oak trees which line the avenues, Oak Bay is an affluent and picturesque neighbourhood. It has some lovely boutique shops, cute art galleries, quaint coffee shops and charming bakeries. Oak Bay is also home to the Royal Victoria Golf Course which is the oldest course in Canada in its original location.

Have dinner at Fisherman’s Wharf

Wander down to Fisherman’s Wharf for dinner. This charming waterfront community is known for its colourful float homes and outdoor eateries. There is a nice artisan gift shop as well as some ecotourism attractions, such as Eagle Wing Whale Watching and Kelp Reef Kayaking. Grab some fresh seafood from one of the food kiosks, such as Barb’s Place and The Fish Store, and enjoy the lively atmosphere.

Watch the sunset along Dallas Road

After dinner, continue walking south on Dallas Road towards Ogden Point. You can walk along the Breakwater – a long walkway that leads to the Breakwater Lighthouse. The ocean views on Dallas Road are incredible, especially at sunset.

Fisherman's Wharf Victoria BC

DAY 3

As it’s your last day in Victoria, enjoy a leisurely morning and try one of Victoria’s amazing brunch spots. In the afternoon, explore Victoria from the water and go whale watching or kayaking.  

Start the day with brunch

You should definitely go for brunch on one of your 3 days in Victoria. From cute cafes to unique venues, the city has no shortage of brunch spots. Tourism Victoria has a great blog post with the best brunch spots but here are a few of my favourites:

  • Sherwood Café: This stylish ‘café plus bar’ serves coffee, cocktails and delicious food from day-to-night. They have a great and varied brunch menu.    
  • Nourish Kitchen: Located in a beautiful Victorian-style heritage house, Nourish Kitchen has a charming atmosphere and serves farm-to-table healthy and hearty dishes.  
  • Bard and Banker: This former bank-turned-bar reminded me of a classic British pub – but with better food! Their $9 before 9am breakfast will set you up for a busy day of sightseeing.
  • Q at the Empress: The Fairmont Empress offers a sophisticated brunch experience. Their carefully curated brunch menu includes the classics with a twist, as well as lighter options.  

Explore Beacon Hill

After brunch, go for a walk around Beacon Hill. It’s a short walk from downtown but it spans 200 acres so you’ll want to wear some comfortable shoes! There’s a lot to see in the park, including the stone bridge at Goodacre Lake and the Moss Lady. Beacon Hill is also home to one of the tallest totem poles in the world which is over 127 feet tall.  

Tallest Totem Pole in the World in Victoria BC
Credit: Destination Greater Victoria

Go whale watching

Each year, orcas, humpback, grey, and minke whales migrate through the waters of the Salish Sea near Victoria. The best way to see these incredible mammals is on a whale watching tour. There are a number of companies which offer tours from Victoria. I’ve done two different tours with Prince of Whales and can’t recommend them enough! The crew are very friendly and incredibly knowledgeable, sharing lots of information about local wildlife and conservation initiatives.

There are also a number of Indigenous companies that offer whale watching tours. Their guides are incredible storytellers and have so much knowledge so I highly recommend booking one of their tours if you visit Victoria.

Whale watching season typically runs from March to October but whales’ migration patterns fluctuate each year so it can vary. Whale watching companies normally post sightings from their tours on their website. Take a look closer to your trip to see what whales may be migrating close to Vancouver Island during your 3 days in Victoria.

Or go kayaking or paddling instead

If you decide not to do a whale watching tour, think about hiring a kayak or stand-up paddle board (SUP) and explore Victoria’s picturesque waterways instead. A number of places, such as Victoria Kayak and Ocean River Adventures, offer half day and full day rentals, as well as kayaking and SUP tours. You can kayak and paddle around the Inner Harbour and along Gorge Waterway; however, you aren’t allowed to take these rentals into the Outer Harbour for safety reasons.

Whale watching in Victoria BC

DAY TRIPS FROM VICTORIA

Three days in Victoria is plenty of time to see the main sights and explore some of Greater Victoria. However, there are so many lovely things to do nearby so you may want to add on an extra day or two and explore some of the following places:

  • Sooke: Sooke is located on the south west coast of Vancouver Island, less than an hours’ drive from Victoria. Explore the trails in East Sooke Regional Park and visit Sooke Potholes Regional Park to see the natural pools. It’s a beautiful place with endless outdoor adventures. Read my guide to Sooke for a complete list of things to do.
  • Salt Spring Island: Just a 45-minute ferry ride from Swartz Bay, Salt Spring Island is the largest and most visited of the Southern Gulf Islands. Stroll around the village of Ganges, discover fairy houses on Mount Erskine, and check out the Farmers’ Markets.
  • Cowichan Valley: Home to rolling hills, stunning orchards and expansive farmlands, Cowichan Valley produces incredible artisanal food and drink. Join a wine tour and explore some of the region’s award-winning vineyards. It’s a vast region so I’ve written a detailed guide with the best things to do.
Cowichan Valley BC

3 DAYS IN VICTORIA, BC: FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How many days do you need in Victoria, BC?

There is almost an endless list of things to see and do in Victoria. However, 3 days in Victoria will give you enough time to see most of the main attractions downtown and explore some of Greater Victoria without feeling rushed. If you are tight on time, you could fit quite a bit into 2 days but you probably wouldn’t have time to visit Greater Victoria and do a whale watching tour.

Is Victoria walkable?

Victoria is a walkable and accessible city. Given the proximity of the main sights, you can easily explore the Inner Harbour and downtown area on foot. Some attractions are a bit further away and although you can still walk to them, you may want to hire a bike or use the local buses instead.

Do you need a car in Victoria?

If you just plan on exploring the downtown area and popular attractions that are accessible on local buses (e.g. Butchart Gardens), you don’t need a car to visit Victoria. Many of the main sights are within walking distance to each other so the best way to explore is actually on foot. However, if you plan to explore Greater Victoria and do any of the hiking trails, it is much easier to have a car. It will give you a lot more flexibility to venture further afield.

Historical things to do in Victoria BC

FINAL THOUGHTS ON 3 DAYS IN VICTORIA, BC

If you’re looking for a city break that combines culture, history and outdoor adventures, Victoria is the perfect choice. I hope this 3-day Victoria itinerary helps you plan your own trip to this vibrant city!

Victoria is a great starting point for many Vancouver Island road trips. My two favourites are the Pacific Marine Circle Route (Victoria to Sooke to Port Renfrew to Cowichan Valley and back to Victoria) and Victoria to Ucluelet and Tofino. If you have a few extra days, I highly recommend doing one of these road trips and exploring more of the island.

Where to explore next?

Vancouver Island is one of the most beautiful places in British Columbia. If you’re planning a trip to the island this year, I have a complete guide to the best places to visit. Here’s a quick summary:

  • Tofino: Known as the surf capital of Canada, Tofino has some of the best beaches in BC! Visit in summer for incredible sunsets or winter for storm watching. Explore the gorgeous hiking trails or book a scenic flight for a completely new perspective. Read the full guide >
  • Campbell River: Despite its growth over the years, Campbell River has retained its small town-by-the-sea vibe. The area is also home to some of Vancouver Island’s best outdoor adventures such as Elk Falls and Strathcona Provincial Park. Read the full guide >
  • Telegraph Cove: This picturesque village is one of the last boardwalk settlements on Vancouver Island and the gateway to one of the richest marine ecosystems in the world. Its close proximity to the Broughton Archipelago and the Johnstone Strait has made Telegraph Cove one of the best places for whale watching in British Columbia. Read the full guide >

If you’re looking for more travel inspiration in British Columbia, have a look at these guides:

Love from Steph

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3 days in Victoria BC
3-Day Victoria BC Itinerary

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6 thoughts on “3 Days in Victoria, BC: Everything You Need To Know”

  1. Thank you so much for this post! I found it incredibly helpful. I even booked a couple of tours.
    Now I’m really looking forward to my trip.

  2. Hi there,
    I love this info! my husband and I are coming over in May and with an infinite amount of things to do and read, it gets a little overhwelming – this is exactly the style of info I need! Thank you!

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