Victoria walking tour & city guide
A garden city on Vancouver Island.
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Victoria, the capital of British Columbia, sits at the southern tip of Vancouver Island. With its mild climate, flower gardens and British-style architecture, it is one of Canada's most charming cities.
The Inner Harbour
The Inner Harbour is framed by the Parliament Buildings, lit by thousands of bulbs at night, and the grand Fairmont Empress hotel. Seaplanes and water taxis come and go, and street performers entertain along the waterfront.
Gardens and the sea
Butchart Gardens, a former quarry turned into spectacular gardens, is a short drive away. Fisherman's Wharf has colorful floating homes. Whale watching tours look for orcas and humpbacks.
Walking Victoria
Victoria is a city made for walking. Start at the Inner Harbour, between the Parliament Buildings and the Fairmont Empress, then visit the Royal BC Museum. A harbourside path leads to Fisherman's Wharf, with its colorful floating homes and fish and chips stands.
Wander through Chinatown and Fan Tan Alley, Canada's narrowest street, and continue along Government Street. In the afternoon, take a bus to the Butchart Gardens, especially beautiful in spring and summer.
Good to know
Victoria has the mildest climate in Canada, with flowers blooming as early as February. Ferries from Vancouver take about 90 minutes and are a scenic journey through the Gulf Islands.
Whale watching tours leave from the Inner Harbour from spring to autumn, often spotting orcas and humpbacks.
Top sights in Victoria
- 1
Inner Harbour
The city's lively waterfront.
- 2
BC Parliament Buildings
Lit up beautifully at night.
- 3
Butchart Gardens
World-famous gardens.
- 4
Fisherman's Wharf
Floating homes and food kiosks.
- 5
Royal BC Museum
Natural and human history.
Food markets & where to eat in Victoria
Fisherman's Wharf
Fish and chips by the water.
Market Square
Shops and cafés in old buildings.
Fan Tan Alley
Canada's oldest Chinatown.
Food to try in Victoria
Afternoon tea
A British tradition in Victoria.
Pacific salmon
Fresh from local waters.
Nanaimo bars
A layered dessert from Vancouver Island.
Opening hours and prices change often. Please check with each place before you visit.
Plan your trip to Victoria
Enjoyed the walk? Here is everything you need to see it for real.
- Hotels in VictoriaCompare places to stay and prices.
- Tours & ticketsWalking tours, museums and day trips in Victoria.
- eSIM for CanadaStay online from the moment you land.
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