Itineraries for Your Trip to Victoria
2 Days in Victoria for First Timers
The first time I visited Victoria, British Columbia, it was only for a few hours as a last stop before heading home on an Alaska cruise. Since then, I've made my way north across the border to visit more than a few times, with outdoor activities like hiking and sunset sails topping the itineraries.
With two days in Victoria, you can visit the historical sites, such as Craigdarroch Castle and the British Columbia Parliament Buildings, and then head out for a hike or a walk through the stunning Butchart Gardens. Time on the water is a must in British Columbia's capital city, and you'll find food stands selling fresh seafood in Fisherman's Wharf, near the Victoria Inner Harbour.
If you only have time for one thing, make it a whale-watching tour.
Victoria typically has mild summers and temperate winters, with more than 300 sunny days annually.
Victoria's prime location as a port city makes it the perfect spot to visit for whale watching and other water-based activities. Orcas and humpback whales migrating between Alaska and Mexico are often seen here, and you can choose from a number of tours that head out on the Salish Sea.
When you're ready to head back on land, there are plenty of historical spots worth visiting along Government Street, such as the Emily Carr House and the possibly haunted British Columbia Parliament Buildings. You can easily walk between these spots or book a bike tour to see even more of the city in a short period of time.
After a busy day exploring the city, you'll want to catch one of Victoria's stunning sunsets before you turn in for the night. Head to the Inner Harbour for a sunset sail, or make your way along the Dallas Road Waterfront Trail to Clover Point, where the water views are endless, and kites often fly in the breeze.
Farm-to-table cuisine and fresh seafood bring all the foodies to Victoria, but it's the high tea that many visitors find especially memorable. You'll find this classic afternoon activity available at hotels like the Fairmont Empress and Butchart Gardens. A visit to Victoria Chinatown should not be missed; it's best done as part of a food tour to get the full cultural experience.
Afternoons spent walking through Beacon Hill Park are always well spent, and if you can reserve a carriage ride, even better. You'll see the area's many Victorian mansions and the Olympia Mountains in the distance. The park has miles of walking trails and a small farm that's fun for kids.
Nightlife in Victoria can be as busy as you'd like, with plenty of bars and brewpubs offering live music in the evening. Sunset cruises are also popular, or you can grab a few friends and book a wood fire–heated hot tub boat to cruise around the Inner Harbour. Alternate between the heated hot tub and a dip in the sea for an invigorating (and unforgettable!) experience.
