If you're dreaming of a quick getaway that blends charming gardens, cultural adventures, and walkable streets, look no further than Victoria, British Columbia. With our trusted Skyway Epic 2.0 Hardside by our side, we packed our bags and took off for a long weekend filled with blooming landscapes, historic alleyways, and waterfront magic.
🌏 Getting to Victoria, BC
There are several ways to reach Victoria:
By ferry: BC Ferries connects mainland Vancouver to Swartz Bay with scenic car and passenger ferry service.
By air: Fly into Victoria International Airport (YYJ) from major cities in the U.S. and Canada.
By car: Drive via the Tsawwassen ferry terminal or through the Anacortes ferry route.
By Clipper: Our choice! We boarded the Clipper Ferry from Seattle—a high-speed, passenger-only vessel that gets you to downtown Victoria in under three hours.
For more tips and travel planning advice, visit tourismvictoria.com.
📅 3-Day Itinerary in Victoria, BC
Day 1: The Butchart Gardens & Afternoon Tea
Start your trip with a sensory treat at the legendary Butchart Gardens. Just a 30-minute bus ride from downtown, the gardens are in full bloom during spring with tulips, cherry blossoms, and the peaceful Japanese Garden.
After soaking in the sights, enjoy Afternoon Tea—whether at the Butchart Gardens Dining Room or the elegant Fairmont Empress Hotel back in town.
Day 2: Downtown Delights & Historic Chinatown
Stroll through Downtown Victoria, where you can shop, grab an ice cream, or people-watch along the Inner Harbour. Be sure to pop into the Fairmont Empress Hotel for photos and maybe a peek at the grand lobby.
Then head to Chinatown—Canada’s oldest—and explore Fan Tan Alley, the narrowest street in North America. It’s a photogenic spot full of quirky shops, tea, incense, and hidden gems.
Day 3: Fisherman’s Wharf & Government Buildings
Wrap up your trip at Fisherman’s Wharf, a colorful floating village filled with food vendors, kayak rentals, and possibly a seal sighting or two. Grab some fish & chips and relax by the docks.
Then head over to the British Columbia Parliament Buildings and the surrounding lawn. It’s the perfect place for photos, especially with the Canadian flag proudly flying.
🏨 Where to Stay
You have options depending on your budget and style:
Fairmont Empress Hotel: Iconic, historic, and luxurious. Perfect if you want to be right on the Inner Harbour. Rates start around $450 per night on weekends and $350 on weeknights.
DoubleTree by Hilton Victoria: Where we stayed! Just a short walk to downtown with modern rooms and great service. Weekend rates average around $300 per night, while weeknight rates can dip to about $220.
Inn at Laurel Point: A waterfront boutique hotel with eco-friendly touches and artistic flair. Rates range from $290 on weekends to $240 on weeknights.
Best Western Plus Carlton Plaza: Centrally located and family-friendly, perfect for travelers looking for value. Nightly rates range from $170 to $200.
🍽️ Where to Eat
Red Fish Blue Fish: Sustainable seafood served from a shipping container on the waterfront.
Jam Cafe: A local brunch institution known for its all-day breakfast, southern-inspired comfort food, and vintage diner vibes.
Nourish Kitchen & Cafe: Wholesome, locally-sourced eats in a cozy setting.
Q at The Empress: For a more upscale dinner experience.
Little Yunnan: Known for mixian noodles and savory broths, this is a must-visit for lovers of Chinese comfort food.
Nubo Japanese Tapas: Inventive sushi and ramen options in a sleek, casual setting.
Murchie's Fine Tea & Coffee: A beloved tea shop and café offering an impressive selection of loose-leaf teas, baked goods, and light lunches
La Roux Patisserie: Gorgeous French pastries and desserts worth the photo and the bite.
Kid Sister Ice Cream: Small-batch ice cream and soda floats made with real ingredients and a retro twist.
🛍️ Where to Shop
Munro’s Books: A must-visit independent bookstore.
Market Square: Boutique shopping and artisan goods.
Fan Tan Alley shops: Souvenirs, vintage finds, and handcrafted gifts.
🧠 Tips & Tricks When Traveling to Victoria
Book the Clipper early if you're traveling from Seattle—seats fill quickly, especially on weekends and holidays.
Pack layers: Even in spring and summer, coastal weather can be unpredictable.
Use public transit: Buses and water taxis are efficient, affordable, and scenic.
Plan for tea: Afternoon Tea is a tradition here—reservations at the Empress are highly recommended.
Save on gardens: The Butchart Gardens often has seasonal promotions—check their website for bundled transport deals.
Currency: U.S. dollars are accepted at many places, but it’s helpful to have some Canadian currency or a no-foreign-fee credit card.
Travel light: Downtown and many attractions are walkable, so rolling a lightweight carry-on like the Skyway Epic 2.0 makes navigating easy.
🌟 Final Thoughts
Victoria delivers the best of Pacific Northwest charm in just a few days. Whether you’re traveling with family or planning a solo recharge, this city checks every box.
So go ahead—pack that Skyway Epic 2.0, book your ferry or flight, and let the blooming beauty, historic charm, and culinary treats of Victoria surprise and inspire your next adventure.