Ultimate Victoria day trip [tours, attractions & more]

Victoria, British Columbia, is a place of stunning natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, there’s always something new and exciting to discover. Known as Garden City, Victoria is an absolute gem that’s easily accessible from Vancouver, making it the perfect day trip.

One of the best things about Victoria is that it’s a small city that can be easily explored on foot. 

You can spend a leisurely morning strolling around the downtown core, taking in the historic buildings, beautiful architecture, and charming shops. It’s also a great city for biking and hiking or taking a wildlife tour. 

As someone who spent 6 years living in Vancouver, some of my favourite trips were always to the beautiful city of Victoria whether I was visiting Victoria in winter or summer, it was such a nice break. The city of Victoria is easily one of the best day trips from Vancouver. 

With its stunning architecture, scenic ocean views, and an abundance of tourist activities, there’s never a dull moment in this city. And while it may be difficult to see everything in one day, we’ve got you covered.

In this guide, we’ll be sharing our top picks for spending a day in Victoria, BC. So grab your camera and get ready to explore!

Not sure whether to visit Vancouver vs Victoria? Why not both? These Victoria day trips allow you to see both cities in BC. 

Spending a day in Victoria, BC, is an unforgettable experience that’s filled with natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. There’s always something new and exciting to discover in Victoria. So, pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready to explore this beautiful city on your next day trip.

Victoria is on the traditional territory of the Lekwungen, Songhees, Esquimalt and WSÁNEĆ peoples.

How to get to Victoria from Vancouver

If you’re in Vancouver and looking for a fun day trip, consider heading over to Victoria for a taste of British Columbia’s capital city.

There are various ways to get to Victoria from Vancouver for a day trip. 

Ferry to Victoria 

The first is to take the ferry from Vancouver to Victoria. This means getting the ferry from the  Tsawwassen ferry terminal to Swartz Bay and then driving or getting a bus from Swartz Bay to downtown Victoria. 

BC Ferries operates many daily ferries between Vancouver and Victoria. The ferries go from south of Vancouver at Tsawwassen to Swartz Bay north of Victoria.

The ferry takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes and you can take your car, or bike or go as a foot passenger and connect to Victoria by bus.

While the ferries are quieter in the winter, booking is recommended to secure your spot if driving onto the ferry, especially at weekends. Also, be aware that sailings can be delayed or cancelled due to bad weather during the winter.

If the ferries to Swartz Bay are booked up, you can also try going from Tsawwassen to Nanaimo, or Horseshoe Bay to Nanaimo. This is a longer drive to Victoria but gets you onto Vancouver Island. 

When it comes to how to get to Victoria from Vancouver by car, this is the route you’ll take. Car to Tswassen, ferry to Swartz Bay then car to Victoria. 

If you book in advance and have a standard-size car this is one of the cheapest way to get to Victoria from Vancouver. It can be made cheaper if you use public transit the whole way, and enter the ferry as a foot passenger.

BC Connector: Day trip to Victoria from Vancouver

If you’re looking to simplify your journey, however, you can opt for the BC Connector bookable through Busbud.

This is a coach that takes you on BC Ferries and drops you off in downtown Victoria. It’s a popular option for day trips from Vancouver to Victoria. 

You can get picked up from several hotels in downtown Vancouver and dropped off in downtown Victoria. The buses from Vancouver leave daily at 8.15 am, arriving in Victoria around 1 pm and the last one leaves Victoria at 15.20 pm arriving back in Vancouver at 8 pm.

While this option is a bit pricier than getting public transit to and from the ferry terminals, it’ll save you the hassle of figuring out multiple transfers. 

The BC Connector will take you straight from Vancouver to Victoria, giving you about four hours to explore the city before heading back.

If you choose this option, I’d allow yourself one night in a Victoria hotel as otherwise, you’ve only got a couple of hours to explore and lots of travelling!

• Insider Tip: Many of these routes sell out, so be sure to make reservations in advance.

Book the BC Connector bus from Vancouver to Victoria here.

Vancouver to Victoria day trip via seaplane

If you’re already visiting Vancouver and looking to do a day trip or overnight trip to Victoria in winter then check out Harbour Air seaplanes.

Unlike normal planes, there’s less of a faff about getting there a few hours before check-in and then driving or getting public transit into the city.

The seaplanes leave from downtown Vancouver in Coal Harbour and fly directly into Victoria’s harbour. You can book them online in advance.

I was lucky enough to fly by seaplane from Vancouver to Victoria on a work trip and it was such a fun way to travel! 

How to get to Victoria from Seattle, WA

When it comes to planning a day trip to Victoria from Seattle, the Victoria Clipper, a sleek and high-speed catamaran is the best way to travel. In just 2 hours and 45 minutes, you’ll arrive in the heart of downtown Victoria, BC.

The journey on the Victoria Clipper is both transport and sightseeing. With several class options on board, ranging from economy seats to more spacious seats in Vista and Comfort class, you can choose the level of comfort that suits you best.

Plus, the journey itself is breathtaking, with views of Seattle, Bainbridge Island, Whidbey Island, and even Orca whales if you’re lucky.

Once you arrive in Victoria, you’ll have about 5 hours to explore the city (accounting for passing through customs). 

Book return ferry transport from Seattle to Victoria

Day trip to Victoria from Port Angeles

If you’re planning a day trip to Victoria from Port Angeles, taking the Coho Black Ball Ferry is a convenient option. 

The ferry departs from downtown Port Angeles and arrives at downtown Victoria. However, if you’re only visiting for the day, it’s best to leave your car in Port Angeles and walk on the ferry.

To maximize your time in Victoria, take the earliest sailing and return on the latest sailing, giving you about 8 hours to explore (keep in mind, customs may take an additional hour upon arrival). Plan to stay overnight in Port Angeles, as the crossing time is approximately 90 minutes.

I highly recommend booking in advance for a seamless day trip experience, especially during the summer when day trips to Victoria BC are very popular!

Best one day in Victoria day trip tours

These Vancouver to Victoria sightseeing tours (and one Seattle to Victoria sightseeing tour) allow you to visit Victoria in one day with all your transportation included. 

Many of them include access to the Butchart Gardens as well as guided tours around Victoria itself. 

Vancouver: Victoria, Gulf Islands Cruise, & Butchart Gardens

Looking for a perfect day trip from Vancouver? Look no further than this guided tour to Victoria, BC. 

Not only will you get to explore the beautiful city of Victoria, but you’ll also get to enjoy scenic ocean travel, visit the world renowned Butchart Gardens and see the stunning architecture of the city.

Here’s what’s included in the tour:

• A 1.5-hour cruise through the Gulf Islands
• Admission to Butchart Gardens
• A Victoria City Tour that covers Government Street, Chinatown, and the Inner Harbour
• Round-trip transportation with hotel transfers included

On the journey to Victoria, you’ll enjoy a ferry ride that’s also a bit like a sightseeing cruise through the Gulf Islands.  You can spot marine wildlife and take in the beautiful scenery.

Once you arrive on Vancouver Island, you’ll get to visit the stunning Butchart Gardens and enjoy a series of themed gardens, highlighted by the massive Sunken Garden complete with a dancing fountain.

After the gardens, you’ll continue on to the city of Victoria, where you’ll get to see its iconic Parliament Buildings and the waterfront Fairmont Empress Hotel. 

You’ll also have some free time to explore the shops and cafes of Government Street and Chinatown and stroll along the Inner Harbour for prime ocean views.

Don’t just take our word for it – previous guests have raved about this tour, calling it a “very enjoyable day” and praising the guide’s knowledge and suggestions for the best way to spend time in Victoria to match individual interests. 

Don’t miss out on this diverse tour – book your trip here

From Seattle: Ferry Day Trip from Seattle to Victoria

For the perfect day trip from Seattle to Victoria, this guided tour including return transportation could be ideal for you.

You’ll take a high-speed catamaran taking you through the stunning Salish Sea and enjoy breathtaking views of the Pacific Northwest on your way to one of the most walkable cities in North America: Victoria.

Once you arrive in Victoria, take advantage of five hours to explore the city at your own pace. 

With the freedom to choose your own stops, you can browse unique shops, sample artisanal delicacies, or visit the stunning Butchart Gardens (or see my ideas below). And with transportation taken care of, you can relax and enjoy the day to the fullest.

Guests have raved about this tour, with one describing it as “a great way to see Victoria on a quick trip” and another calling it “a relaxing and enjoyable way to get to Victoria”. 

With roundtrip ferry transportation included, as well as taxes, port fees, and fuel surcharges, this tour offers unbeatable value and convenience.

Don’t forget to bring your passport and visa for Canada, if required!

Book your Seattle to Victoria day trip here

From Vancouver: Butchart Gardens & Victoria Sightseeing Tour

This Victoria day trip tour includes a scenic round-trip ferry ride across the Strait of Georgia, a sightseeing tour of downtown Victoria, free time to explore downtown Victoria’s shops, restaurants, and bars, and a visit to the world-renowned Butchart Gardens.

Highlights of the tour include the Inner Harbour, the Fairmont Empress Hotel, Mile 0 of the epic Trans-Canada trail, and historic Chinatown. You’ll also get to explore 55 acres of themed garden displays at Butchart Gardens, including a Japanese Garden, Italian Garden, and Rose Garden.

This all-inclusive tour includes deluxe mini-coach transportation, an experienced and friendly driver-guide, entrance to Butchart Gardens, onboard entertainment and commentary throughout, a discount on optional activities, and all taxes and ferry fees.

Don’t just take our word for it – previous guests have raved about this tour. One said, “We had a great guide with a wonderful attitude and just the right sense of humour. Victoria is a beautiful city, and the Butchart Gardens are truly amazing. It was the perfect way to spend our limited time in the area.”

Book your tour to Victoria.

Vancouver to Victoria and Butchart Gardens

This Victoria day trip offers a stunning coastal journey and a taste of the vibrant culture of Victoria, BC. 

Once you arrive, you’ll head to Butchart Gardens, a National Historic Site of Canada with over 900 varieties of plants and stunning landscapes. 

Spend two hours exploring the 50 acres of gardens, including blooming flowers and peaceful fountains. 

Then you’ll be heading over to Victoria’s downtown to take in the sights of Canada’s oldest Chinatown and the Victoria Inner Harbor before exploring Victoria on your own.

Here’s what’s included in this tour:

• A comfortable climate-controlled bus ride from both ferry ports
• A 90-minute ferry ride with the chance to spot orcas and other marine life
• Admission to the world-famous Butchart Gardens, a National Historic Site of Canada
• Free time to explore downtown Victoria, including Inner Harbor, the Empress Hotel, and the Royal BC Museum

Previous guests have raved about the tour, with one saying, “This was a filled day, not only are the gardens amazing also the ferry ride is very interesting”. Others added, “Our tour guide was phenomenal and so informative.” 

Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to explore the beauty and culture of Victoria, BC.

Read more reviews and book this Victoria sightseeing trip

Best things to do in Victoria in one day

When it comes to your Victoria day trip itinerary, perhaps you’re wondering how to make the most of your short visit. 

My Victoria travel guide provides a comprehensive itinerary and the basics on what to do so you can make the most of your 24 hours in this beautiful city.

From must-see attractions to places to eat and where to stay, our guide covers it all. We also offer advice on how to get around Victoria and other travel tips to make your trip a success.

Whether you have one, two, or three days in the city, you’ll find plenty of options to choose from.

Top tip: there are no ride shares (Uber/Lyft) in Victoria, and taxis are often in high demand. That’s one of the reasons I recommend booking a guided day trip to Victoria BC, so your transport is taken care of. Otherwise, it may be best to stick to the activities that are in downtown Victoria only.

Breakfast in Victoria

The best day trips to Victoria start with breakfast! There’s nothing worse than exploring a new place on an empty stomach! Victoria is home to some of the best breakfast spots in British Columbia and I’ve included the top ones below. 

The Blue Fox Cafe is a popular choice for all-day breakfast food. With its funky decor and delicious brunch menu, you can choose from stacks of fluffy pancakes to ten different kinds of eggs benny. 

This popular spot is located just a short walk from downtown and has been serving breakfast since 1991. Arrive early to beat the crowds and be prepared for large portions of high-quality food.

Be prepared for a lineup out the door, though – this place gets busy!

Another cafe that’s worth the wait is Jam Cafe. This all-day breakfast spot has an extensive menu with options like egg bennies, veggie bowls, waffles, french toast, pancakes, and more. Don’t miss out on their famous Charlie Bowl – it’s a fan favourite.

If you can’t wait in line in Victoria, there are several locations in Vancouver including Kitsilano and Gastown.

If you’re looking for even more breakfast options, John’s Place Restaurant on Pandora Avenue has a massive menu with all kinds of different breakfast food options. Belgian waffles, customizable omelettes, and more await you at this popular spot.

For vegans or vegetarians, head to Fern Cafe and Bakery. While it’s a bit outside of downtown Victoria, it’s worth the trip for its 100% vegan brunch foods and baked goods. And, for those needing a gluten-free option, Nourish Kitchen & Cafe near the Inner Harbour has got you covered.

Floyd’s Diner James Bay (a classic greasy spoon) is another great option for breakfast in Victoria.

Harbour Causeway and Government Street

One of the best things to do in Victoria BC in one day is to take a stroll along the Inner Harbour Causeway. 

Not only will you be treated to stunning views of the ocean and harbour traffic, but you’ll also come across the famous “Welcome to Victoria” sign made out of flowers. 

Food kiosks, local vendors, and a lemonade stand line the way, making it a perfect spot to sit and watch the boats go by. 

If you have time, don’t forget to explore Government Street, the main shopping street in Victoria, where you can find unique stores and pick up some awesome Canada souvenirs.

Afternoon Tea in Victoria

Enjoying afternoon tea is one of the best things to do in Victoria in a day. 

For a traditional tea experience, the Fairmont Empress Hotel is the go-to destination. Located right on the Inner Harbour, the hotel offers a relaxing and elegant setting for tea lovers. Enjoy premium loose-leaf tea served in royal china along with a variety of sandwiches, scones, and pastries, all while admiring the stunning harbour views.

 If you prefer something less formal but still charming, check out the Pendray Tea house, located near the ferry dock. For a more budget-friendly option that still offers tasty treats, Murchie’s is a great alternative.

Whale watching in Victoria

If you’re looking for an unforgettable experience during your day trip to Victoria, consider taking a whale-watching tour. 

From sleek orcas to majestic humpback whales, you’ll have the chance to see a variety of wildlife up close and personal. 

Whether you’re a photographer or simply looking for an adventure, a whale-watching tour is a must-do activity in Victoria.

There are plenty of tour companies to choose from, ranging from short trips in a Zodiac to full-day adventures that take you across towards the mainland.

Along the way, you’ll also have the opportunity to spot seals, porpoises, eagles, and more. 

Don’t miss out on the chance to experience the beauty of the Gulf Islands and the Salish Sea during your Victoria BC day trip taking a whale-watching tour.

Book your Victoria whale watching tour

Exploring BC’s Parliament buildings

During your day trip to Victoria, don’t miss out on the opportunity to view the beautiful BC Parliament Buildings located at the Inner Harbour. 

With its Romanesque architecture, water fountains, and manicured waterfront grounds, the Parliament Buildings are a must-see for visitors to the city.

You can book a tour of the Parliament Buildings in advance and plan your day trip to Victoria around that timing if this is high on your list of things to see in Victoria.

Otherwise, you can still enjoy the beauty of the buildings and the 5-acre waterfront property. 

Don’t forget to take a photo of the statues of founding BC figures and the iconic figure of Captain George Vancouver on top of the central dome of the Parliament Buildings.

Stroll through the grounds and take in the sights of the Cenotaph memorial, Queen Victoria’s statue, the Speaker’s chair, and the Knowledge Totem Pole. 

Even if you’re short on time, a walk through the BC Parliament grounds will surely leave a lasting impression.

Exploring Victoria on foot or by bike

For active travellers, Victoria offers a great opportunity to get some exercise while seeing the sights. 

Skip the tour buses and rental cars, and head out on your own adventure.

One of the best routes to take is a scenic walk starting from the Parliament Building, through Beacon Hill Park, down to Dallas Road, and along the trail to the Ogden Point Breakwater (more information on these below). 

After that, head to Fisherman’s Wharf for some delicious treats before making your way back to the Parliament buildings. 

This route is just over 6km and mostly flat, with a few inclines around Beacon Hill Park.

If you’re looking to cover more ground, rent a bike in Victoria and head out on the cycle paths. You could even ride some of the Galloping Goose trails! You can rent e-bikes or regular bikes for a fun and convenient way to explore the city.

Walk along the Breakwater, Victoria

The Ogden Point Breakwater offers stunning views of Victoria’s harbour area and is one of the best easy walks in Victoria. It’s a short walk from Fisherman’s Wharf and a great way to take in the ocean views.

The 762-meter-long walkway of the Breakwater is a popular walk with both tourists and locals. As you walk, you can find seals and river otters swimming beside the Breakwater.

On clear days, you can spot massive cruise ships docked near the Breakwater at the cruise ship terminal, floatplanes taking off near the end of the walkway and boats zooming around the waters. You might even be lucky enough to see some whales!

Remember, the Breakwater is best visited on calm days unless you’re prepared to get splashed by waves. Before starting your walk, grab a coffee or tea from the Breakwater Bistro & Bar at the start of the pathway and enjoy the views!

Take a scenic floatplane tour in Victoria

Make your Victoria day trip unforgettable by taking a scenic floatplane tour over the beautiful city! 

Harbour Air seaplane tours depart from the Victoria Harbour Airport in the Inner Harbour and offer breathtaking views of the city and southern Vancouver Island.

It’s a unique experience to take off from the ocean and soar over the city, spotting famous landmarks like the Parliament Buildings and the Fairmont Empress Hotel. 

I took a similar seaplane tour in Vancouver and it’s still one of the best things I did in the city. I’m sure doing it in Victoria will be just as impressive. 

And if you’ve never flown in a seaplane before, this is the perfect time to try it! Don’t miss out on one of the best things to do in Victoria.

Book a seaplane tour of Victoria

Guided food and history tour of Victoria

One of the best ways to explore the sights and flavours of Victoria on a day trip is by joining a food walking tour. You’ll get a chance to see and taste all that the city has to offer with a knowledgeable guide leading the way!

This delicious tour takes you to some of the most popular attractions in downtown Victoria, as well as hidden gems that you might not have discovered on your own. 

You’ll visit the impressive Parliament Buildings, stroll along the Inner Harbour Causeway, and check out Trounce Alley and the famous Fan Tan Alley in Chinatown.

The tour also includes stops at Bastion and Market Squares, and the Victoria Public Market, where you’ll get to taste a variety of local foods and learn about the city’s fascinating history.

Come hungry and get ready to be delighted by the culinary and cultural delights of Victoria!

Book this Victoria food & history tour.

Explore Victoria’s Chinatown 

Victoria’s Chinatown is a must-visit spot in the city. Not only is it the oldest Chinatown in Canada, but it’s also the second oldest in North America! With its stunning red and gold architecture and unique buildings, it’s a beautiful area to explore. 

Make sure to walk through the ornate archway marking the entrance and don’t forget to visit the hidden gem of Fan Tan Alley, the narrowest street in Canada. 

You’ll find plenty of hidden shops within the alley, making it a fun and unique shopping experience.

Wander through the Government House gardens

If you’re a nature lover, don’t miss the Government House Gardens on your day trip to Victoria. 

The gardens are one of the best-kept secrets in the city and are filled with a variety of unique plants and gardens. 

Plus, entry into the gardens is completely free! 

Take your time strolling through the paths and enjoy the beauty of the natural surroundings. The Government House Gardens are a peaceful and beautiful place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.

Fisherman’s Wharf

If you’re looking to experience the quirky side of Victoria, then a visit to Fisherman’s Wharf is a must-do on your one-day trip. 

Located just a short walk from Victoria’s downtown core, the Wharf is home to a number of houseboats where residents live, as well as a variety of restaurants, shops, and tours that leave from there.

What draws most visitors to Fisherman’s Wharf are the brightly coloured houseboats and the opportunity to see wildlife, such as seals and otters, swimming nearby. 

I highly recommend having lunch at Barb’s Fish and Chips, which is said to serve some of the best fish and chips in all of Victoria. You might even be lucky enough to have a harbour seal pay you a visit as you dine!

Don’t forget to stop by the ice cream shop for a sweet treat before you leave.

Visit the Royal BC Museum

The Royal BC Museum is a must-visit destination in Victoria. It houses over 200,000 artefacts and specimens, making it one of the largest museums in Canada. With its stunning architecture and prime location, the museum is an impressive sight to see. 

Once you step inside, you’ll find a variety of interactive exhibits and displays that showcase the history and culture of British Columbia.

From First Nations artefacts to the much-anticipated Vikings exhibit, there’s always something new to discover. 

The First Peoples Gallery is a particular highlight, and it’s easy to spend several hours exploring this thought-provoking showplace of First Nations art and culture.

Explore the beaches in Victoria

Victoria has some great beaches which might surprise you since you’re exploring BC’s capital city after all.  

A visit to one of the city’s sandy beaches is one of the best ways to explore the beauty of Victoria on Vancouver Island. 

While many of the beaches in Victoria are rocky and rugged, Willows Beach and Gonzales Beach are two of the city’s best sandy beaches. 

While the water may be too chilly for a swim, the beaches are perfect for laying out a beach towel and relaxing in the sun.

Tour Craigdarroch Castle

Craigdarroch Castle is a beautiful Victorian-era mansion that is a must-see for history buffs. 

The castle was built for Robert Dunsmuir, a Scottish-Canadian coal baron, and his family played an important role in British Columbia’s history. 

A visit to the castle offers a glimpse into the opulence and extravagance of the Victorian era. 

With beautiful rooms and stunning views, the tour takes about an hour and offers a fascinating insight into the castle’s history. 

Thunderbird Park

Another of the top things to do on your Victoria day trip is to visit Thunderbird Park. 

Located just outside the Royal BC Museum, this park is home to a stunning collection of impressive totem poles. You won’t be able to miss the towering and intricately carved poles along Douglas Street, each one telling a unique story.

Beyond the totem poles, Thunderbird Park provides a serene and peaceful atmosphere, where visitors can soak up the culture and history of the Coast Salish people. 

These Coast Salish people have an intimate, long-lasting relationship with the land of southern Vancouver Island. Their culture and traditions have survived through generations, and visiting Thunderbird Park is a great way to learn and appreciate their rich heritage.

These Coast Salish people have an intimate, long-lasting relationship with the land of southern Vancouver Island. Their culture and traditions have survived through generations, and visiting Thunderbird Park is a great way to learn and appreciate their rich heritage.

You’ll find beautiful gardens, benches, and walking paths, offering a peaceful oasis in the middle of the bustling city.

Visit the Butchart Gardens

Are you a fan of flowers and breathtaking natural beauty? Then Butchart Gardens is an absolute must-see on your day trip to Victoria! 

With over 55 acres of gardens, you’ll be able to explore and discover new sights at every turn.

As a National Historic Site of Canada, Butchart Gardens is a true gardening wonder of the world. From the magnificent perfumed rose garden to the serene Japanese garden, you’ll be captivated by the beauty and wonder of this botanical oasis. 

With themed sections that take you to different places around the world, including Japan and Italy, the Butchart Gardens tour is sure to take your breath away. The Ross Fountain is always a highlight, but just walking the stunning grounds is worth the trip

Butchart Gardens has been welcoming visitors for over a century, and nearly a million people visit each year to stroll through the gardens and search for the elusive Himalayan blue poppy.

The gardens also feature a restaurant and gift shop, so you can grab a bite to eat and pick up a souvenir to remember your visit. But the real magic happens at night during the summer and winter.

During the summer, you can watch fireworks light up the night sky, while during the winter, you can stroll through lighted displays and enjoy the holiday magic.

Although the gardens are not close to downtown Victoria, they are just a short 25-minute drive or 50-minute bus ride north of the city centre.

They’re easiest to get to by booking a guided tour of Victoria.

Stroll through Beacon Hill Park

Beacon Hill Park is a must-visit destination on any day trip to Victoria. This 200-acre green space is filled with beautifully manicured gardens, trees, and flowers. It is an excellent location for a leisurely stroll, bike ride, or scenic drive. 

The park is home to unique wildlife, including ducks, turtles, and even a roving peacock!

 The stunning Goodacre Lake is a perfect spot to relax and enjoy the serene surroundings. You can also search for the nearby Moss Lady, hidden among the trees, or admire the colourful flowers near Chestnut Row.

In the summer, the Cameron Bandshell hosts free concerts every weekend. You can sit and enjoy music ranging from jazz to folk, making it the perfect place to relax and unwind after a day of exploring.

If you’re looking for a unique experience, take a horse-drawn carriage tour of the park. It’s a fun and exciting way to see the sights and enjoy the beauty of the park.

As you make your way back to downtown Victoria, be sure to stop at the famous Beacon Drive-in Restaurant for some ice cream.

Discover the legacy of artist Emily Carr

Pay homage to one of Canada’s greatest artists, Emily Carr. 

Visit her family home, Carr House, and take a tour with one of the passionate caretakers of her remarkable legacy. 

Then, head to the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria to see a significant number of her evocative works. 

Don’t forget to stop at the bronze statue of Emily Carr, her beloved dog Willie, and pet monkey Woo at the corner of Government and Belleville streets.

Dinner in Downtown Victoria

As the day progresses, you’re probably getting hungry again. Downtown Victoria has plenty of amazing restaurants to choose from. 

Since Victoria is so close to the sea, it seems a shame not to enjoy its delicious seafood while on your Victoria day trip. Below are some of the top places to eat in Victoria. 

• Tacofino: the best taco restaurant in Victoria and one of my favourite BC restaurants for delicious, filling tacos with unique flavours. Share some nachos and get 2-3 tacos each depending on how hungry you are. 
• Finn’s Seafood Restaurant: one of the best restaurants in Victoria, sitting right beside the water and offering incredible ocean views from the outdoor patios.
• Red Fish Blue Fish: a casual seafood restaurant located on the waterfront, known for its tacos, fish and chips, and fish sandwiches.
• Pagliacci’s: a local favourite for Italian food and a great selection of pasta dishes, as well as delicious seafood and grilled meats

Getting around Victoria BC

One of the great things about Victoria, BC is that the downtown area is compact and easy to navigate on foot. 

With sidewalks and walking paths along the shoreline, you can take in the picturesque views of the harbour and its many coves, boats, and wildlife.

But if you want to venture further out here are some ways to get around Victoria BC:

• Rent a car: While not necessary for getting around downtown, renting a car can give you the freedom to explore more of the city. 

I use comparison sites like DiscoverCars and RentalCars to book my car rentals as it’s easy to check prices and compare the best deals!

• Rent a bike in Victoria: Victoria is bike-friendly with plenty of lanes and trails to explore. Rental shops offer hourly or daily rates, including e-bikes for those who don’t want to pedal.
• Hop-on Hop-off Bus, Victoria: The double-decker buses offer a convenient way to see the top tourist destinations like the Breakwater, Beacon Hill Park, Craigdarroch Castle, and more.
• Water taxi: The Victoria Harbour Ferries are a unique and affordable way to see the city from a different perspective. These charming water taxis link tourist destinations like the Fairmont Empress, Fisherman’s Wharf, Chinatown, and Old Town.

Where to stay in Victoria BC

While you can see most of the best things to do in Victoria BC in winter in a single day, I highly recommend spending 2-3 days in the city. This gives you time to explore the shopping, harbour and restaurants as well as some time to get out of the city and explore Vancouver Island’s natural beauty too.

Looking for unique places to stay in Victoria, check out this full guide

Victoria has a variety of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. Some of the best places to stay in Victora are detailed below.

• Oak Bay Hotel: This hotel has luxurious rooms, some with ocean views. The outdoor pool area overlooks the ocean and there are onsite restaurants too.
• Fairmont Empress: Overlooking Victoria’s beautiful Inner Harbour, the Fairmont Empress has an on-site spa, and restaurants and is super close to the best things to do in winter in Victoria BC.
• Abigail’s Hotel: This is one of the best-rated hotels in Victoria. Rooms have historic décor, and the building was originally built in 1930. If you’re looking for some history during your trip to Victoria, this hotel will help you get there.
• The Vic, Victoria: Recently renovated, this boutique hotel in Victoria is in the heart of the city with easy access to many of Victoria’s top attractions.

Final thoughts on the best Victoria day trip itinerary

Victoria is a must-visit city for anyone looking to explore the beauty and history of British Columbia. From its stunning gardens and heritage buildings to its whale watching tours and unique water taxis, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

If you only have one day to explore Victoria, we recommend picking out 2-3 options from our suggested itinerary for the best experience during a one day trip to Victoria from Vancouver.

Don’t forget to take advantage of the many transportation options available, including walking, biking, and taking a water taxi during your Victoria day trip from Vancouver. 

But even if you have more time, it’s impossible to see and do everything Victoria has to offer. If you’re looking for a Victoria itinerary 2 days long, simply add a couple more of the above things to do in Victoria to your list.

Overall, whether you’re visiting for a day or a week, be sure to soak up the charm and character of this incredible city. We hope our guide has helped you plan the perfect one day trip to Victoria, BC!

FAQs on Victoria day trips

Last Updated on July 6, 2023 by Hannah