Escape Seattle's football frenzy
Let Greater Victoria welcome you with open arms and a relaxed pace. Here, each day brings a new blend of vibrant artistry, old-world charm, and breathtaking coastal scenery, all wrapped up in the city’s unmistakable spirit. If you’re ready to experience a place unlike any other, and a true escape from the bustle back home, this is where your next story begins.
Hotel recommendations | Getting here | Day 1 | Day 2 | Day 3 | Day 4
10-minute read
Updated March 13, 2026
Hotel recommendations
Delta Hotels by Marriott Ocean Pointe Resort
Nestled on the edge of Victoria’s Inner Harbour in Vic West, this modern waterfront resort offers sweeping views of the historic city skyline and easy access to scenic walking trails. Spacious rooms, a stunning indoor pool, and acclaimed dining at LURE Restaurant (boasting one of the city’s best harbourfront views) make it perfect for anyone craving comfort and style. It’s a relaxing retreat where every moment feels connected to the water that surrounds us. It might be across the harbour, but it's just a short 7-minute walk into downtown across the Johnson Street bridge.
Huntingdon Hotel & Suites
Its old-world charm meets Westcoast hospitality at Huntingdon Hotel & Suites on Belleville Street. This gorgeous property steps from the Inner Harbour pairs elegant architecture with lovely gardens, scenic ponds, and cobblestones pathways for a timeless ambience in the heart of the city. It’s central location places the hotel walking distance from The Clipper ferry terminal, a 6-minute walkaway, and Black Ball ferry terminal, a 1-minute drive away, and just a stones throw from the harbour seaplane terminal.
Local tip: With its sister property, The Pendray Inn & Tea House, located on the same grounds, Huntingdon Hotel & Suites place Victorian tradition at your fingertips with one of the city’s top Afternoon Tea rooms.
Getting here
FRS Clipper
Sail directly from downtown Seattle to Victoria’s Inner Harbour on the sleek FRS Clipper. The journey is a feast for the senses, with panoramic windows showcasing the sparkling Salish Sea and distant mountain vistas. Step off the boat refreshed, having enjoyed a seamless, scenic voyage right to the heart of Victoria. This walk-on, walk-off ferry is the perfect way to arrive in Victoria, where our walkable downtown core puts almost all the city’s top attractions, accommodations, and dining within reach of the terminal. Hop off at their terminal located at the historic, Sir Francis Rattenbury designed, CPR Steamship terminal, and watch history unfold before you with breathtaking views of the BC Parliament Buildings and Fairmont Empress hotel (both designed by Rattenbury as well).
Kenmore Air
Take to the skies with Kenmore Air and enjoy a quick, spectacular floatplane flight from Seattle to Victoria’s picturesque harbour. Every seat offers front-row views of the Puget Sound and the rugged coastline and islands below, turning your journey into a breathtaking highlight of your trip. Arrive relaxed and inspired, just steps from Victoria’s vibrant downtown.
Local tip: Just got into town and don't know what to do? It's just a 4-minute walk down Wharf Street to the Victoria Visitor Centre, where the friendly staff can bring you up to speed on all the top attractions and even assist with bookings.
Day one: Heritage highlights
Spinnakers Gastro Brewpub
Start your day at Canada’s oldest brewpub, where brunch comes with a side of brewing history and innovation. Savour local, farm-fresh dishes in a cozy waterside setting, and don’t miss the chance to pair your meal with one of their legendary pints right from the source. It’s a uniquely Victorian way to blend breakfast and bold local flavour. Located in Vic West along the Songhees Walkway, Spinnakers makes for a great destination on your morning stroll along one of Victoria's most picturesque walking paths.
Craigdarroch Castle Historic House Museum
Explore the grandeur of Craigdarroch Castle in Victoria's historic Rockland neighbourhood, a striking Victorian-era mansion filled with ornate woodwork, stained glass, and period furnishings. Wander its four floors and climb the tower for sweeping views of Victoria. It’s a fascinating journey into the city’s storied past, sure to captivate visitors of all ages.
Local tip: While you’re there, be sure to check out the manicured gardens at Government House just a short 8-minute stroll away. A free to enjoy experience that boasts rose, rhododendron, and English Country gardens.
Munro’s Books
Uncover a literary paradise at Munro’s Books on Government Street, a beloved independent bookstore housed in a grand, heritage building adorned with soaring ceilings and stunning architecture. Browse thoughtfully curated shelves filled with the latest bestsellers, local authors, and hidden gems, all in an atmosphere that invites you to linger. Turn the page on the expected and discover something truly unique at Munro’s. Just across the street from the Bay Centre, Munro's is located in the heart of downtown Victoria's shopping scene.
Murchie’s Tea & Coffee
Step into a Victoria tradition at Murchie’s Tea & Coffee, where more than a century of craftsmanship meets the inviting aroma of fresh brews and pastries. Choose from an impressive selection of specialty teas and expertly roasted coffees, then relax in the heritage café or pick up treats to take home. It’s the perfect spot to pause, sip, and soak up the city’s timeless charm. Murchie's is just next door to Munro's Books, a perfect little hangout to read the first chapter of that new book while you savour your morning brew.
Victoria Chinatown Museum
Step into the heart of Canada’s oldest Chinatown at the Victoria Chinatown Museum, where immersive exhibits and stunning artifacts celebrate a rich tapestry of community history. Wander through vibrant displays highlighting Chinese immigrant experiences, traditions, and the evolution of this storied neighbourhood. It's a cultural journey that captures the sights, sounds, and stories unique to Victoria’s Chinatown. Take a 7-minute stroll following Government Street north, then take a left on Pandora, you'll find a narrow entrance to Fan Tan Alley, Canada's narrowest street, and where the Chinatown Museum is located. Be sure to leave some time to explore the quirky shops located in the alley.
Ugly Duckling
Let’s cap off the day dining at Ugly Duckling, where whimsical plates and bold coastal flavours transform local ingredients into artful, multi-course surprises. Just follow Fan Tan Alley through to Fisgard Street and hang a left, Ugly Duckling will be on your left-hand side. The ever-evolving tasting menus highlight foraged finds and micro-seasonal produce, promising a delightfully unpredictable culinary journey, where each dish is an invitation to expect the unexpected.
Local tip: Ugly Duckling is one of Victoria’s most intimate dining rooms, reservations are strongly encouraged.
Day two: Essential experiences
Fairmont Empress
Experience the timeless tradition of Afternoon Tea in the grand setting of the Fairmont Empress on Government Street. Delicate pastries, finger sandwiches, and the finest teas are served with elegance, while sunlight pours through historic windows overlooking the Inner Harbour. It’s a must-do Victorian ritual best enjoyed pinkies-up!
Royal BC Museum
Explore British Columbia’s natural and human history at the Royal BC Museum, renowned for its dynamic, world-class exhibits, and just a 4-minute walk from the Fairmont Empress. Marvel at life-sized totem poles, realistic dioramas, and hands-on galleries that bring the province’s diverse stories to life, as well as exhibits from around the world. Inspiring and interactive, it’s an essential stop for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the region.
BC Parliament Buildings
Experience the grandeur of British Columbia’s iconic legislature with a guided tour of the Parliament Buildings, just across Government Street from the Royal BC Museum. Marvel at the impressive architecture, stained glass, and rich history woven into these elegant halls. Knowledgeable guides bring the province’s political past and present to life, offering insight into both local, provincial, and national history. Who knows, you might even run into a historical figure or two.
Breakwater Bistro & Tasting Room
Settle in by the sea at Breakwater Bistro & Tasting Room, where panoramic ocean views meet laid-back west coast cuisine. Sample from a curated tasting menu, featuring local seafood, craft brews, and standout regional wines. The relaxed vibe and sunsets over the water, where the day melts into pastels above the Olympic mountains, make it a quintessentially Victoria dining experience. If you brought your car or bike, it's just a 5-minute ride from the Parliament Buildings to the breakwater, but it's also a beautiful 20-minute walk through Victoria's historic James Bay neighbourhood.
Local tip: A stroll down the Ogden Point Breakwater offers some of the best sunset strolls around. Grab an ice cream cone and enjoy the walk!
Day three: Blooms & brushtrokes
The Butchart Gardens
Immerse yourself in a world of breathtaking colour at The Butchart Gardens in Brentwood Bay, where 55 acres of meticulously designed floral displays burst into bloom year-round at a National Historic Site. Wander through lush, themed gardens—Japanese, Italian, Rose—and pause by tranquil ponds and ornate fountains. A visit to the gardens feels like stepping foot into your favourite painting, as the colours of millions of blooms offer a vibrant escape from the bustle of city life back home.
Local tip: Don’t worry about the drive, join a Gardens Experience Tour with Gray Line Sightseeing Victoria, who provide coach service to and from the gardens throughout the day, allowing you to experience the gardens at your own pace.
AURA Waterfront Restaurant + Patio
Back downtown and we, indulge in a stunning harbour view and a standout late-morning brunch at AURA (or lunch if you decided to extend your garden stroll), where the bright, contemporary menu is rooted in local, seasonal ingredients. Floor-to-ceiling windows invite the waterfront in, creating a tranquil backdrop for every bite. From build-your-own mimosas to inventive plates, it’s a showcase of Vancouver Island’s bounty. Find AURA located at the Inn at Laurel Point just off Montreal Street in James Bay.
Emily Carr House & Ross Bay Cemetery
Pay tribute to one of Canada’s most iconic artists at the beautifully preserved Emily Carr House, where fascinating exhibits bring her creative spirit and unconventional life to the forefront. Carr is often called “Canada’s Georgia O’Keeffe”, but we like to think of her as our proudly and distinctively Victorian, Emily. Combine your visit with a contemplative walk through Ross Bay Cemetery a 6-minute drive away, where Carr’s gravesite rests among heritage trees and coastal views, honouring her legacy in the city she called home. Ross Bay Cemetery is a municipal heritage site, situated amidst Gary oak trees along the shores of the Salish Sea, and is a spectacular example of a Victoria-era cemetery. This is a day for inspiration and reflection amid Victoria’s lush, historic surroundings.
Local tip: Plan ahead to take one of Emily Carr House’s Emily Carr inspired painting workshops and unleash your inner artist.
Vista 18 Restaurant & Loung
Dine high above the city at Vista 18, located at the Chateau Victoria on Burdett Ave, where dinner is paired with breathtaking, panoramic views of Victoria’s skyline and harbour lights. The menu celebrates local ingredients, with West Coast-inspired plates and expertly crafted cocktails. As the sun sets, this elegant rooftop spot transforms every meal into a stunning experience.
Local tip: Not ready to call it a night? Pop downstairs to Clive’s Classic Lounge and enjoy cocktails in one of the world’s most renowned hotel bars.
Day four: Serenity in the city
Ærth Saunas
Find tranquility in the heart of downtown Victoria steps from the Inner Harbour. Ærth Saunas are an open-air sauna and cold plunge experience that blends heat, cold, and nature to awaken your senses. Choose between The Quiet Sauna – perfect for relaxation and Zen, or The Ceremony Sauna – where you might find new connections through guided rituals, breathwork, and shared experiences, or a private sauna – that let’s you take control of your space. Run the Nordic circuit and cap it all off with an ice bath for a refreshing boost that breaks you free from your morning routine.
Local tip: Ærth is the perfect morning indulgence for those staying at the Huntingdon Hotel & Suites, as it's located on their property nestled between the hotel and the Pendray Inn.
Nourish Kitchen & Cafe
Discover wholesome, garden-inspired cooking at Nourish, an inviting café set in a charming heritage house. The menu brims with nourishing, creative dishes, many gluten-free and plant-forward, crafted from locally sourced ingredients. Another James Bay gem, Nourish invites you to enjoy a peaceful, airy atmosphere in a heritage building, that’s as restorative as the food itself.
Art Gallery of Greater Victoria
It’s all about creativity and culture at the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria, showcasing an inspiring collection of Canadian, Indigenous, and international works. Stroll through diverse exhibitions and serene Asian gardens that invite reflection and discovery; don’t miss the authentic Shinto Shrine, a tranquil treasure rarely found outside Japan. This gallery is a haven for art lovers and curious minds alike. Located in historic Rockland, the Art Gallery blends the classics and the contemporary, as can be seen within the venue itself, which sees a restored heritage home blend with their rotating galleries.
End Dive
End Dive, located in Victoria's Old Town neighbourhood, is known locally for inventive, ever-changing dishes that celebrate fresh, seasonal ingredients in a relaxed space. Their playful menu lets you explore surprising flavour pairings and chef-driven small plates in a friendly, unpretentious setting. End Dive is a foodie’s bar; their open kitchen provides front-row seats to the action watching their chefs’ playful mastery of our island bounty. It’s the kind of neighbourhood spot where your dinner feels both inventive and full of local spirit.
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