Architectural Exploration in Victoria, BC
Victoria’s skyline is alive with stories, and this itinerary is your invitation to explore its most awe-inspiring architecture. Marvel at intricate details, stroll through hidden alleyways, and take in the timeless elegance of coastal castles. Get ready for an adventure through over 150 years of West Coast history. If you’re dreaming of days filled with discovery and a dash of magic, there’s no better guide for an unforgettable architectural escape in Victoria, BC.
Accommodations | Heritage Marvels | Cultural Crossroads | Timeless Landscapes | Inspiration & Icons | Tours
Accommodation Recommendations
Inn at Laurel Point
Overlooking Victoria’s Inner Harbour, the Inn at Laurel Point is a contemporary haven known for its sleek architecture and expansive harbour views. As you wander the airy hallways, you’ll discover a thoughtfully curated collection of local and international artwork that adds both vibrancy and inspiration to the hotel’s inviting spaces. Whether relaxing in your elegant room or exploring the tranquil Japanese gardens, you’ll find creativity woven into every corner, making this a true West Coast retreat for art and architecture lovers alike.
Pendray Inn and Tea House
Step back in time at the Pendray Inn and Tea House, a magnificent Victorian mansion just steps from the water. Ornate woodwork, stained glass windows, and turreted gables transport guests to another era, with each room offering its own unique charm and historic detail. The elegant tearoom and beautifully landscaped gardens make a stay here feel like living in a storybook, surrounded by the architectural romance of old Victoria.
Heritage Marvels
British Columbia Parliament Building
Start your Victoria adventure with a stroll around the grounds of the BC Parliament Building, where history is etched into every stone. With their green copper domes and sparkling nightly lights, this grand old building instantly sets the stage for your weekend. You’ll feel a sense of awe seeing how Victoria’s coastal charm blends with the legislative heart of British Columbia. Before heading out for your next stop, be sure to snap a photo or two, breathe in that sea air, and let the city’s elegance soak in.
Local Tip: Don’t miss the free guided tours inside the BC Parliament Building, where you can explore opulent chambers, beautiful artwork, and stunning stained glass celebrating BC’s history. It’s a unique chance to get behind the scenes of this architectural marvel and connect with BC’s rich political history.
Fairmont Empress Hotel
Known as Canada’s Castle on the Coast, the Fairmont Empress is an architectural jewel that has graced Victoria’s Inner Harbour since 1908 (and it might just feel as though it leapt off the pages of a royal storybook!). Its stately Châteauesque design, marked by steeply pitched copper roofs, grand dormers, and ornate stonework, creates an unmistakable silhouette against the waterfront. Inside, soaring ceilings, opulent details, and elegant public spaces reflect a legacy of sophistication, making the Empress a timeless symbol of Victoria’s heritage and hospitality.
Afternoon Tea at the Fairmont Empress
No visit to Victoria is complete without indulging in Afternoon Tea at the Fairmont Empress, a tradition dating back to 1908 that’s as woven into the city’s fabric as the harbour itself. For generations, locals and visitors have gathered in the hotel’s sunlit lobby, sipping expertly brewed teas paired with towers of scones and sweets, all served on delicate, custom-made, Royal Doulton China that was inspired from a pattern gifted to the hotel by the Royal Family.
Rogers’ Chocolates
Step into the National Historic Site Rogers’ Chocolates shop on Government Street, where gleaming wood cabinetry and tile floors evoke the elegance of a bygone era. Established in 1885, this heritage storefront is as much a feast for the eyes as its hand-crafted chocolates are for the palate. Snacking on a treat here becomes a sweet journey through local history, architectural charm, and timeless indulgence.
St. Ann’s Academy National Historic Site
Step through the gates of St. Ann’s Academy and you’re instantly wrapped in serenity, history, and the soft scent of heritage gardens. Once a bustling convent and girls’ school dating back to 1858, this French Colonial Revival landmark enchants with soaring columns, sweeping verandas, and a striking chapel adorned with hand-carved woodwork. Wander the tranquil grounds or peek inside the chapel; St. Ann’s is where Victoria’s spiritual past and architectural elegance invite you to linger, reflect, and discover something uniquely soulful in the heart of the city.
St. Andrew’s Cathedral
When you visit the captivating St. Andrew’s Cathedral, you’ll be awed by its soaring Gothic Revival arches, intricate stained-glass windows, and remarkable sense of tranquility. Built in 1892, this dazzling landmark is a testament to Victoria’s history of community, blending European elegance with Pacific charm. Every corner of the cathedral brims with artistry, from the hand-carved altar to sunbeams streaming through colourful glass, making it an unforgettable architectural stop in the city’s heart.
Bard & Banker
Dinner at the Bard & Banker is an experience soaked in character and charm. Step inside and you’ll find polished brass accents, rich woodwork, and tall arched windows hat instantly makes you want to settle in for a long, lively evening. Once a bustling 19th-century bank, now a vibrant hub for laughter, stories, and live music, it’s a place where history feels very much alive. Every bite and clink of a glass echoes with tales of Victoria’s past, inviting you to make a few memories of your own.
Local tip: The Bard of Yukon, poet Robert Service, once worked in the old bank, and lived in the rooms above.
Cultural Crossroads
Chinatown
Victoria’s Chinatown is a world unto itself, bursting with bold colours, ornate lanterns, and the irresistible aromas of spices drifting from historic doorways. The oldest Chinatown in Canada, this dynamic district has thrived since the 1850s, shaped by generations of resilience, ingenuity, and a rich cultural mosaic. Stroll through the legendary Fan Tan Alley, Canada’s narrowest street, lined with quirky shops and hidden gems. Then pause beneath the majestic Gate of Harmonious Interest, a vibrant symbol of unity and hope. The Victoria Chinese Public School stands proudly as a testament to the community’s commitment to both heritage and education, its unique architecture inviting visitors to reflect on stories of immigration and perseverance. Every corner and alleyway offers a new discovery, from traditional apothecaries to contemporary art, making Chinatown a living celebration of Victoria’s multicultural soul and a can’t-miss stop for anyone seeking authenticity and adventure.
Don Mee Seafood House
No trip to Victoria’s Chinatown is complete without savouring authentic dim sum at Don Mee Seafood House, a local favourite for generations. Indulge in steaming baskets of dumplings and savoury bites while soaking up the vibrant atmosphere of this beloved eatery. It’s the perfect way to experience the flavours, hospitality, and lively spirit that make Chinatown Victoria’s unforgettable.
Victoria Chinatown Museum
Tucked away in Fan Tan Alley, the Victoria Chinatown Museum brings the district’s rich history vividly to life. Engaging exhibits and interactive displays share stories of early Chinese immigrants, community resilience, and cultural traditions. It’s an essential stop for truly understanding the heart and heritage of Victoria’s Chinatown.
The Atrium
Trade cobblestones for contemporary cool at The Atrium, a light-filled modern marvel in downtown Victoria. The glass walls soar skyward, sunlight dances across leafy indoor trees, and the open, welcoming space never feels anything less than fresh and forward-thinking.
Local tip: If you’re in the mood for lunch, Zambri’s is an award-winning restaurant located within The Atrium serving classic Italian cuisine and one of the city’s best wine lists.
Old Victoria Customs House National Historic Site
Completed in 1875, the Old Victoria Custom House (also known as the Malahat Building) stands watch over the Inner Harbour as a symbol of Victoria’s Victorian era past. Its distinctive salmon-pink façade, striking mansard roof, and Second Empire style make it an inviting photo spot for visitors. The building’s understated elegance and rich history capture the spirit of a city that once led Canada’s West Coast trade.
CPR Steamship Terminal
Designed by Francis Rattenbury, the CPR Steamship Terminal stands proudly along Victoria’s Inner Harbour, once welcomed travellers arriving by sea. The building is a striking example of 1920s Neo-Classical architecture with a Beaux-Arts influence. Its grand columns and elegant façade recall an era of ocean voyages and cosmopolitan excitement.
Steamship Grill & Bar
Located inside the historic CPR Steamship Terminal, the Steamship Bar & Grill offers a fresh, local twist on West Coast cuisine in an unforgettable setting. Floor-to-ceiling windows and thoughtfully restored interiors showcase elegant architectural details and provide unrivaled views of Victoria’s sparkling Inner Harbour.
Royal Theatre
The Royal Theatre, a cornerstone of Victoria’s performing arts scene since 1913, is renowned for its striking Rococo/Renaissance revival architecture featuring four storeys of multi-coloured brickwork. The ornate interior features marbles, blue brocade wall panels, scagliola, as well as murals and frescoes. Guests are greeted by an opulent auditorium with sweeping balconies, decorative plasterwork, and gilded flourishes throughout. The theatre’s harmonious proportions and meticulous detailing create an atmosphere that is as impressive architecturally as it is culturally. During Arts & Culture Month, you can take in a range of performances from comedic plays such as “O Christmas Tea” to musical performances from the Victoria Symphony.
Timeless Landscapes
Six Mile Pub & Eatery
For brunch that blends tradition with twist of the contemporary, head to the Six Mile Pub & Eatery, the oldest pub in all of British Columbia. There’s a cozy warmth to every corner here, where vintage charm meets a menu bursting with truly local flavours (including fresh baked bread, handmade pasta, honey from their own apiary, and craft beer). It’s a chance to eat well and write your own chapter in the Island’s living history, all before noon.
Hatley Park National Historic Site
Set amid breathtaking gardens and old-growth forest, Hatley Castle is a grand Edwardian estate that feels straight out of a period drama (or even an X-Men movie or two). Built in 1908 for the Dunsmuir family, the castle dazzles with its stone turrets, stately oak paneling, and sweeping views of the Salish Sea. As you wander the manicured lawns or roam its regal halls, you’ll sense why this site has starred in Hollywood films and become a beloved emblem of coastal British Columbia heritage.
Fisgard Lighthouse
Standing sentinel at the entrance to Esquimalt Harbour since 1860, Fisgard Lighthouse is Canada’s oldest west coast lighthouse and a beloved Victoria landmark. Its bold white tower and classic red keeper’s house create a striking contrast against the surrounding ocean and rugged shoreline, drawing photographers and history buffs alike. With panoramic views and interpretive exhibits inside, a visit to Fisgard Lighthouse is both a journey through Victoria’s deep maritime history and a chance to experience the wild of Vancouver Island’s coast.
The Butchart Gardens
The Butchart Gardens, a National Historic Site, is world-renowned for its breathtaking floral displays and enchanting garden design. First opened to visitors in 1904, The Butchart Gardens blossomed from the vision of Jennie Butchart, who transformed her family’s limestone quarry into the gardens you see today. Stroll through vibrant themed gardens, such as the famed Sunken, Rose, and Japanese gardens, each landscaped with meticulous artistry and set against the backdrop of lovely heritage buildings. With its stunning architecture, tranquil pathways, and year-round blooms, The Butchart Gardens is an unforgettable showcase of horticultural elegance.
Janevca Kitchen & Lounge
Treat yourself to dinner at Janevca, a standout nestled within the elegant Rosemead House. Modern touches blend seamlessly with heritage character, creating a space that feels fresh yet storied. Gather around the table, savour vibrant flavours inspired by the head chef’s Jamaican-Filipino heritage and soak up the unique energy of one of Victoria’s most beautifully designed dining experiences.
Inspiration & Icons
Nourish Kitchen & Café
Brunch at Nourish Kitchen & Cafe is a bright and wholesome affair, where every dish celebrates the best of local, farm-to-table ingredients. Set within a lovingly restored heritage house in James Bay, Nourish charms with its airy rooms, vintage detailing, and cozy, sunlit nooks. Starting your morning here feels unrushed and inviting, offering a true taste of Victoria’s historic charm.
Christ Church Cathedral
Christ Church Cathedral is a soaring testament to Gothic Revival architecture, with grand brick vaults, elegant towers, and an awe-inspiring rose window that dominates the west façade. Built in stages beginning in the 1920s, the cathedral’s sweeping nave and intricate stonework speak to both vision and perseverance. Unique details, like the charming robin’s nest sculpture hidden atop a pillar, add a sense of artistry and living history to this magnificent landmark.
Emily Carr House
On a leaf-dappled street sits the cheerful yellow Emily Carr House, pulsing with the spirit of one of Canada’s most unique artists. The creaky old floors and garden-framed veranda whisper stories of childhood mischief and bold creative dreams. This is where the curiosity of one of the country’s finest artists and writers first bloomed. You’ll leave feeling an urge to make your own mark, just like Emily did.
Local tip: Leave time to take in one of the Emily Carr inspired art or writing classes. Advanced booking is required.
Ross Bay Cemetery
Step into the storied past at Ross Bay Cemetery, one of Victoria’s most atmospheric and historically rich sites. Established in 1872, its winding pathways, ornate Victorian-era monuments, and moss-draped trees create a peaceful, contemplative landscape filled with tales of pioneers, artists, and explorers. Exploring these grounds, the oldest surviving formal landscape design in BC, you’ll discover exceptional examples of funerary art and architecture, and a fascinating window into the city’s eccentric characters and layered history.
Local tip: Ross Bay Cemetery is the final resting place of Emily Carr. Follow the marked signage along the pathway to find her gravesite and pay respect to this visionary artist.
Craigdarroch Castle
Craigdarroch Castle is a Victorian-era masterpiece that feels both inviting and impossibly grand at the same time. Built in the 1890s for coal baron Robert Dunsmuir and his family, the castle is a triumph of Romanesque Revival architecture featuring steep towers, arched windows, and a kaleidoscope of stained glass (one of the finest collections in North America) that makes sunlight dance across the richly carved wood interiors. As you climb the ornate staircase and explore lavish rooms filled with period details, you’ll imagine the echo of high society gatherings and turn-of-the-century ambition. There’s something intimate here too, an old-world warmth beneath all the opulence, proof that even the grandest homes were built to be lived in, loved, and filled with stories.
The Courtney Room
Settle in for dinner at The Courtney Room, an elegant downtown destination known for its refined atmosphere and celebration of local ingredients. As evening falls, the warmly lit dining room comes alive with the clink of glasses and aromas from the kitchen, where seasonal ingredients from Vancouver Island farms are given the spotlight. With its mix of classic charm and contemporary style, dinner at The Courtney Room is a memorable taste of Victoria’s vibrant culinary scene.
Don’t Know Where to Start?
Take a sampler tour with a friendly local guide who will introduce you to Victoria’s sites and stories.
Discovery Walks History Tours
Step into the past with Discovery Walks History Tours enjoying Victoria’s storied past and walkable scale. Your guide will lead you through the city’s most famous architecture, landmarks, and neighbourhoods as you dive into the rich history of the city.
Local tip: Take an after hours Ghostly Walks tours and uncover the dark side of the city’s most famous landmarks.
The Pedaler Cycling Tours & Rentals
Join the friendly folks at The Pedaler for a pedal powered cycling tour of the city on their City Highlights – Hoods and Legends Guided Tour. You’ll set off from the storied Huntingdon Manor on the Inner Harbour, cruise through Canada’s oldest Chinatown, past the world’s tallest freestanding totem pole, and explore local neighbourhoods rich in history like Cook Street Village and Rockland.
Horse Drawn Carriage Rides
Take a trip through time and place and experience this city as though it were still the Victorian era. A horse drawn carriage tour is a great way to take in the city’s sights at a leisurely pace and from a distinct vantage point. Friendly guides from Victoria Carriage Tours or Tally-Ho Carriage Tours are well versed in the history of Victoria and its many neighbourhoods, making for a ride as informative as it is awe inspiring.
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