Victoria Canada Travel Guide: 8 Things To Know Before You Go

Ladies and gentlemen, it's your Traveling Princess, Chris, and we're about to embark on a journey to uncover the secrets of Victoria, British Columbia, Canada. This isn't your ordinary travel guide; we're here to show you the ropes, spill the beans on how to get there, explore the city, savor the flavors, soak in the sights, and make every moment unforgettable. So, are you ready for this royal adventure? Buckle up; we're diving in!

Unveiling the Charm of Victoria

First things first, let's get acquainted with Victoria. Founded as Fort Victoria in 1843, this city had a humble beginning as a trading post by the Hudson's Bay Company, trading furs. Later, the Gold Rush fever swept through these parts, attracting fortune seekers from near and far. Victoria even had its moment of glory as the provincial capital of British Columbia. And let me tell you, Victoria has earned the title of being more British than Britain itself.

The Inner Harbor is undoubtedly one of the coolest spots in this city, and we'll dive into that in more detail later in our "Must-Do" section. With a bustling maritime life, Victoria is home to the Canadian Pacific Naval Fleet and boasts a thriving fishing industry. Approximately 400,000 people call the greater Victoria area home, with roughly 250,000 residing in the city. It's a small, picturesque city often touted as having the best climate in all of Canada. They claim it's the northernmost Mediterranean climate in the world. Now, coming from Southern California, I can attest that this Mediterranean climate is pretty chilly, but the rain here is even scarcer than in Vancouver.

The Beauty of Vancouver Island

To understand Victoria, you must acquaint yourself with Vancouver Island, the island where Victoria resides. Vancouver Island is the largest island on the west coast of North America, stretching 320 miles from its northern tip to where Victoria nestles in the south. What's fascinating is that this island is actually closer to the United States mainland than it is to the Canadian mainland. As you venture around Vancouver Island, you'll encounter a diverse landscape of forests, beaches, and rocky coastlines. So, whether you're into city life or crave a slice of nature, a 20-minute drive north of Victoria can transport you to rural serenity away from the urban bustle.

Navigating Your Way to Victoria

As Victoria is situated on an island, ferries are the go-to mode of transportation. The most popular route takes you from Vancouver, and it's a 1.5-hour journey that lands you on Vancouver Island. However, here's the real kicker: as you sail through the picturesque islands along the way, you'll discover there's a hidden gem onboard—the sun deck. Most travelers tend to congregate on the lower decks, unaware of the existence of this glorious sun-soaked space. It's a window into a world where the sun rarely shines, making it an exclusive spot for the savvy traveler.

Victoria also has its international gateway, the Victoria International Airport, which is about a 30-minute drive from the city center. Regular flights connect Victoria to Vancouver and Seattle, with additional options from Toronto and San Francisco.

And for all you Seattle folks, there's another ferry that'll transport you directly from Washington to Victoria. But if you've never experienced a car ferry ride, this is your chance. It's a cool way to get there, and it even has a sun deck for those breathtaking views.

Exploring the Charms of Victoria

Now, let's talk about exploring Victoria. One unique aspect of Victoria is its double-decker buses. This city is more British than Britain, after all, and that extends to its public transportation. Not all buses are double-deckers, but you'll spot a few cruising the streets. The fare is $2.50 per ride or $5 for an all-day pass. However, if you plan to venture outside Victoria on Vancouver Island, you might want to consider renting a car. It's a vast island, and having your own wheels can unlock a world of possibilities.

If you're visiting Victoria just for a day or two from a cruise ship, you can easily explore the compact city center on foot, by bus, or even by bicycle. But here's a little tip: if you park your car on the street in Victoria, they have a unique parking system. You'll notice small posts around the parking areas with numbers like 1183. You'll need to remember your spot number and pay at the nearest parking meter using that number. It's a little quirk that makes Victoria all the more charming.

But here's the kicker: if you're a fan of ride-sharing services, you won't find Uber or Lyft in Victoria. Taxis are your main mode of app-based transportation. So, plan your rides accordingly.

Savoring Victoria's Culinary Delights

Victoria, being a city, boasts more restaurants per capita than any other Canadian city. If you're a foodie, this is your playground. The crown jewel of Victoria's culinary scene is the high tea at the Empress Hotel. This indulgent experience is served for two and includes an array of teas. You'll receive a teapot, six cups per person, and a tantalizing spread of three tiers of delectable treats.

But that's just the tip of the iceberg. Don't miss out on Frankies Modern Diner, a local gem that serves up mouthwatering dishes like fish and chips, pasta, and key lime pie.

But, of course, no visit to Victoria is complete without a stroll down Government Street, where you'll discover delightful shops and cafes. As you explore the city, make sure to check out Parliament Building, Royal Museum, Inner Harbor, Chinatown, and, of course, the world-famous Butchart Gardens.

So there you have it, an extended and reimagined guide to exploring Victoria, British Columbia. From transportation tips to culinary delights, this city has it all. Now, get out there and embrace the charm of this picturesque gem on Canada's west coast. Happy travels! 🌍✨🌺