Things to do in Victoria

Gray Line Victoria Insider Tips

1. Admire Victorian Architecture at the Fairmont Empress Hotel

Opened to huge fanfare back in 1908, the Fairmont Empress Hotel is the last word in Victorian elegance. The hotel ranks among the finest of Canada’s grand railway hotels - a special collection of properties steeped in Canadian history and culture. Today, the Fairmont Empress Hotel continues to welcome guests from around the world, and stands as one of Victoria’s proudest landmarks.

2. Escape to Nature at the Beautiful Butchart Gardens

Butchart Gardens is without question one of Victoria’s most enduringly popular and best-loved visitor attractions. Set just outside Victoria, on Vancouver Island, the gardens are a designated National Historic Site of Canada. Year round, natural attractions including the Japanese, Mediterranean, and Italian gardens dazzle visitors with their seasonal displays. And dotted throughout the landscape, attractive water features like the Star Pond and Dragon Fountain ensure there’s something to catch your eye everywhere you look.

3. Marvel at the Imposing Craigdarroch Castle

This Scottish baronial mansion was built toward the end of the 19th century for the Dunsmuir family - who made their money in the burgeoning coal industry. Since the passing of the last Dunsmuir owners, the property has served as a military hospital, a college, offices, and a school of music. Today, this iconic landmark is listed as a National Historic Site of Canada.

4. Enjoy a Moment of Calm at Christ Church Cathedral

There’s been a place of worship on or around this site since 1856, but the beautiful cathedral you find today was built in 1929 to accommodate the growing congregation. It’s built in the 13th-century Gothic style, and features impressive towers and beautiful stained-glass windows. The Cathedral welcomes visitors from 8.30am - 5.30pm on weekdays, 10am - 4pm on Saturdays, and 7.30am - 5pm on Sundays.

5. Soak up the Atmosphere in Busy Chinatown

Victoria’s Chinatown neighborhood was originally settled by miners coming to Canada in the 19th-century Fraser Canyon gold rush. Today it’s the oldest of its kind in Canada, and plays host to an eclectic range of cultural and entertainment venues. Wander down Fan Tan Alley to downtown Victoria, and don’t miss The Gate of Harmonious Interest - the district’s most impressive landmark.

6. See the Catch of the Day Hauled In at Fisherman’s Wharf

This secluded coastal hotspot is home to kiosks serving fresh-off-the-boat seafood, boutique shops, and eco-tour companies offering adventure in the great outdoors. Come for the souvenirs, stay for the views, and don’t miss the chance to watch the fishing boats unloading their catch of the day.

7. Experience the Old World Charm of Cook Street Village

With period Victorian and Edwardian homes lining the sidewalks, strolling through Cook Street Village offers a step back in time. Inviting cafes, family-owned antique stores, and tempting organic food stalls jostle for space, while trendy locals sip fresh coffee and watch the world go by. You’re sure to love the small-town feel, and the relaxed atmosphere is a welcome break from big-city life in the downtown area.

8. Take in the Sea Views from the Inner Harbor

What was once the heart of Victoria’s shipbuilding and commercial fishing industry is now a vibrant hub of maritime activity. Time your visit to catch one of the Inner Harbor’s regular sailing competitions, and watch elegant yachts catching the winds and gliding through the waves. Fisherman’s Wharf is close by, too - the perfect place to stop for lunch.

9. Explore Coastal British Columbia from Oak Bay Marina

Located just outside the city of Victoria, Oak Bay Marina is a great base from which to explore British Columbia’s coastline. Here, moored pleasure boats bob on the calm waters, and visitors enjoy panoramic views over Mary Tod Island and Turkey Head Point. Scenic coves like Willows Beach hide sandy shores, and seals, otters, and sea lions thrive among the floating kelp beds of the Salish Sea.

10. Take the Kids to Beacon Hill Park

Beacon Hill Park is a favorite spot for families; with duck ponds, animal petting zoo, playgrounds, and natural spaces teeming with wildlife to explore. Admire sweeping views over the open sea to the Olympic Mountains beyond, and keep watch for colorful peacocks strutting across the lawns.