Top reasons to visit Victoria
- Stunning Outdoor Activities: Victoria offers a wealth of outdoor adventures, perfect for beach vacations and exploring urban parks.
- Rich Cultural Experiences: Immerse yourself in local culture with historic buildings, vibrant streets, and charming boutiques.
- Family-Friendly Attractions: Enjoy a variety of activities suitable for families, from day trips to outdoor concerts.
- Scenic Beauty: Capture breathtaking views of the coastal city and its picturesque surroundings.
- Delightful Accommodation: Choose from charming hotels and bed and breakfasts for a comfortable stay.
Find great hotels in Victoria
Discover a range of delightful accommodation options in Victoria, from charming hotels to inviting bed and breakfasts. Whether you seek adventure, pet-friendly amenities, or a comfortable base for business travel, you’ll find the perfect place to unwind. Explore our selection of Victoria hotels, read reviews, and choose a room that suits your needs for an unforgettable vacation experience in this picturesque city.
- Red Lion Inn and Suites: Experience comfort and convenience at the 3-star Red Lion Inn and Suites, rated 8.8 out of 10 by guests. This hotel caters to business travellers seeking a practical stay in Victoria. It features essential amenities, including a business centre and meeting facilities, ensuring that your professional needs are met while providing a welcoming atmosphere. Guests will appreciate the well-appointed rooms that offer a relaxing environment after a busy day.
- Fairmont Empress: Immerse yourself in a luxurious family-friendly experience at the 4-star Fairmont Empress, boasting a guest rating of 9.2 out of 10. This hotel is themed around hot springs, offering unique access to natural hot springs nearby. Families can indulge in adventure sports such as kayaking, sailing, and hiking, with various amenities tailored for children, including a pool and safety features. This property combines elegance with fun, making it a splendid choice for those seeking adventure and relaxation.
- Hotel Grand Pacific: Discover eco-friendly luxury at the 4-star Hotel Grand Pacific, which also holds a guest rating of 9.2 out of 10. This property is eco-certified, catering to environmentally conscious travellers while providing a touch of luxury. Adventure seekers will find plenty of nearby activities, including sailing, rock climbing, and biking. The hotel's commitment to sustainability combined with its upscale offerings makes it an ideal choice for those looking to indulge in comfort while respecting the environment.
Where to stay in Victoria
Victoria, British Columbia, offers a delightful blend of outdoor adventures and family-friendly experiences. Stroll along the scenic downtown, where friendly locals greet you amidst charming boutiques and cafés. Explore the Greater Victoria area, with its relaxing atmosphere and rich history, perfect for romantic getaways or family excursions. With stunning views overlooking the city, you'll find the ideal spots to unwind and soak in the vibrant culture of this enchanting coastal city.
- Downtown Victoria: The vibrant heart of Victoria, Downtown Victoria is a bustling neighbourhood teeming with life and energy. Situated close to the Inner Harbour, it offers a mix of outdoor adventures and family-friendly activities. The area sees moderate visitor traffic throughout the year, peaking in the spring and summer months. Here, you'll find delightful shopping centres, educational venues, and recreational areas. Notable landmarks include the picturesque marina, stunning botanical gardens, and vibrant flower gardens, making it a perfect spot for leisurely strolls and exploration.
- Inner Harbour: Inner Harbour is a stunning neighbourhood that serves as the gateway to Victoria's maritime charm. The area attracts visitors year-round, with peak traffic during the warm summer months. Known for its beautiful waterfront, Inner Harbour is ideal for families seeking outdoor experiences. Activities abound, from leisurely walks along the promenade to visiting educational institutions and recreational facilities. The nearby marina and botanical gardens add to the scenic beauty, making it a favourite spot for both tourists and locals alike.
- Oak Bay: Nestled just a short distance from downtown, Oak Bay is a quaint village known for its picturesque scenery and outdoor offerings. This charming area experiences steady visitor numbers throughout the year, with a notable uptick in the spring and summer months. Travellers flock to Oak Bay for its pristine beaches and scenic views, as well as its renowned golf courses. Visitors can explore the local marina and nearby modern colleges, immersing themselves in the tranquil atmosphere that Oak Bay has to offer.
Things to do in Victoria
Shopping
Victoria offers a delightful shopping experience with boutiques along Government Street and the charming Market Square. For a broader selection, if you're up for a drive, head to Mayfair Shopping Centre or Tillicum Centre, both featuring a mix of local and international brands.
Recreation
Experience the serenity of the Victoria Wellness Centre, where you can indulge in rejuvenating spa treatments and holistic therapies. Take a peaceful stroll through Beacon Hill Park, enjoying its lush gardens and tranquil atmosphere, perfect for reflection and relaxation amidst nature.
Adventure
In Victoria, explore the exhilarating landscapes of the Gulf Islands by kayaking, where you can paddle through stunning waters and encounter marine wildlife. Alternatively, embark on a thrilling whale-watching tour to witness orcas and humpback whales in their natural habitat, creating unforgettable memories amidst breathtaking scenery.
Nightlife
Explore the vibrant nightlife at the Sticky Wicket, where you can enjoy a lively atmosphere with great pub fare and cocktails. For a unique experience, visit the Victoria Event Centre for eclectic live performances and events throughout the week, ensuring a memorable night out.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Victoria
Victoria, British Columbia, offers numerous free activities such as visiting the University of Victoria, Government Street, and Fisherman's Wharf. To save on transport, consider using the bus or renting a bike. The best time to visit is during the low season from January to February and November, with Tuesday being the cheapest day to stay. Book your hotel a month in advance or look for last-minute deals on Expedia, especially for eco-certified options. Combining your hotel, flights, and activities into a package can also yield significant savings.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Victoria are January to February and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
- The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel in Victoria is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Victoria is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay in Victoria is Saturday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia's search tool to tailor your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and the type of hotel you prefer. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified option will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels currently available. To uncover the most affordable prices and offers, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save money by combining your hotel reservations in Victoria with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions in Victoria
Victoria offers an ideal setting for outdoor, family, and beach vacations, with a variety of attractions to explore. Visitors can enjoy urban parks, historic civic government buildings, and vibrant streets, all catering to those seeking culture, outdoor experiences, and a taste of city life. The city's charming atmosphere and scenic beauty make it a perfect destination for tourists looking to immerse themselves in local culture and enjoy nature.
- Fisherman's Wharf Marina: Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Fisherman's Wharf Marina, where colourful floating homes and fresh seafood stalls create a unique seaside vibe. Enjoy outdoor activities such as kayaking or simply relax on the beach while taking in stunning views of the harbour.
- British Columbia Parliament Building: Marvel at the architectural beauty of the British Columbia Parliament Building, a historic civic landmark. Take a guided tour to learn about its rich history and the province's political heritage, all while surrounded by beautiful gardens and impressive sculptures.
- Chinatown: Stroll through Victoria's Chinatown, one of the oldest in North America. Enjoy the vibrant colours, unique shops, and authentic dining options that showcase the area's rich cultural heritage, providing an immersive urban experience.
Best time to go to Victoria
The best time to visit Victoria can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Victoria falls in August, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is sunny with no rain. The coolest average temperature in Victoria falls in December, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Victoria
Flying into Victoria, British Columbia, offers several options. SEAttle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) is approximately 135km away, with luxurious hotels like the Fairmont Olympic Hotel and Four Seasons Hotel Seattle, both located 18km from the airport. Vancouver International Airport (YVR) is closer at 87km away, featuring upscale hotels such as Versante Hotel, just 3km from the airport. The most convenient option is Victoria International Airport (YYJ), situated 24km from central Victoria, with quality accommodations like the Brentwood Bay Resort, 8km away. Many of these hotels provide airport shuttle services for easy access to YYJ.