7-Day Victoria BC Itinerary: Explore Gardens, History & Coastal Beauty

Victoria, the capital of British Columbia (BC), sits on Vancouver Island and is celebrated for its English charm, lush gardens, and stunning waterfront views. Known as Canada’s “Garden City,” it blends historic architecture, Indigenous culture, and outdoor adventures—making it a top destination for travelers worldwide. This 7-day Victoria BC itinerary is designed for international visitors (e.g., from the U.S., Latin America, or Europe) and includes actionable details: daily attraction sequences, dining recommendations, accommodation tips, transport hacks, and safety notes. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or foodie, this plan ensures you experience Victoria’s best without missing a beat.

Key Itinerary Highlights

• Garden & Castle Romance: Visit the world-famous Butchart Gardens and historic Craigdarroch Castle—Victoria’s most iconic landmarks.
• Balance of Urban & Natural Wonders: Mix city highlights (Inner Harbour, Legislative Buildings) with outdoor adventures (Malahat SkyWalk, whale watching).
• Flexible Transport & Unique Experiences: Use ferries, buses, and walking to explore; enjoy local seafood, afternoon tea at The Fairmont Empress, and Indigenous cultural sites.

Essential Travel Info for International Visitors

Before you start, note these basics to avoid hiccups:

• Best Time to Visit: May–September. Mild weather (15–25°C/59–77°F), blooming gardens, and fewer rain showers make this ideal for outdoor activities.
• Currency: Canadian Dollar (CAD). Credit cards (Visa, Mastercard) are widely accepted, but carry $50–$100 CAD in cash for small shops or buses.
• Language: English (primary). Tourist areas (e.g., Butchart Gardens, Royal BC Museum) offer limited Spanish/French assistance.
• Power & Plugs: 110V, Type A/B (U.S.-style two-prong plugs). Travelers from Europe, Asia, or Australia need a voltage converter and adapter.
• Entry Requirements: U.S. citizens need a valid passport; visitors from other countries (e.g., Mexico, Brazil, UK) require a visa or Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA). Check Canada’s immigration website 3+ months before travel.

7-Day Victoria Itinerary Overview

Day	Theme	Top Attractions	Accommodation Area
1	Arrival & Inner Harbour	Inner Harbour, The Fairmont Empress, Legislative Buildings	Downtown Victoria
2	Gardens & Historic Castles	Butchart Gardens, Craigdarroch Castle	Downtown Victoria
3	City Culture & Indigenous History	Beacon Hill Park, Royal BC Museum, Chinatown	Downtown Victoria
4	Coastal Nature & Seafood	Malahat SkyWalk, Fisherman’s Wharf	Downtown Victoria
5	Art & Leisure	Emily Carr House, Cook Street Village, Beacon Hill Park	James Bay
6	Day Trip or Free Exploration	Saanich Peninsula Wineries, Whale Watching, Golf	James Bay
7	Shopping & Departure	Government Street, Inner Harbour Markets	N/A

Day 1: Arrival & Discovering Victoria’s Inner Harbour

Morning: Travel to Victoria

Most international visitors arrive via Vancouver (YVR Airport). From Vancouver, take the BC Ferries from Tsawwassen Terminal to Swartz Bay Terminal (Victoria’s main ferry port)—the most scenic and affordable option.

• Ferry Details: Departs every 1–2 hours (6 AM–10 PM). The 95-minute journey offers panoramic views of the Strait of Georgia; grab a coffee or light breakfast at the onboard café (try a Canadian maple latte).
• Ferry Tickets: Book online 2–3 weeks in advance (peak season: June–August sells out fast!). Cost: ~$18 CAD per adult (walk-on); ~$50 CAD for a car (if renting).
• Alternative: If short on time, take a 35-minute seaplane from Vancouver’s Coal Harbour to Victoria’s Inner Harbour ($150–$200 CAD per person).

Afternoon: Check-In & Explore the Inner Harbour

Once you arrive at Swartz Bay Terminal:

• Transport to Downtown: Take Bus 70 (operated by BC Transit) to Downtown Victoria (~40 minutes, $5 CAD per ride). Buy a **DayPass ($10 CAD)** for unlimited bus rides—great for future days.
• Accommodation Recommendations: Stay in Downtown Victoria for easy access to attractions.
  • Luxury: The Fairmont Empress (a historic 1908 hotel overlooking the Inner Harbour; $300–$450 CAD/night).
  • Mid-Range: Pacific Gateway Hotel (steps from the Inner Harbour, with rooftop views; $180–$250 CAD/night).
  • Budget: HI Victoria Hostel (clean, social, 5-minute walk to the harbour; $60–$80 CAD/night for a dorm bed).

After checking in, spend 2–3 hours exploring the Inner Harbour—Victoria’s heart.

• Walk along the waterfront: Watch buskers (acoustic musicians, magicians) perform, and snap photos of the iconic Legislative Buildings (neoclassical architecture with copper domes).
• Visit The Fairmont Empress: Even if not staying here, step inside to admire its grand lobby (Edwardian-style chandeliers, marble floors) and book afternoon tea for Day 5 (more details below).

Evening: Dinner & Harbour Night Views

Dine on fresh West Coast seafood near the Inner Harbour:

• Recommended Restaurants:
  • Red Fish Blue Fish: A casual food truck (or indoor spot) serving fish and chips (try the salmon or cod) with hand-cut fries ($15–$20 CAD).
  • The Keg Steakhouse + Bar: For a splurge, order grilled BC salmon or prime rib with a side of roasted vegetables ($35–$50 CAD).
• Night Activity: After dinner, stroll back to the Inner Harbour. The Legislative Buildings and The Fairmont Empress light up at dusk—their reflections on the water create a magical atmosphere.

Day 2: Butchart Gardens & Craigdarroch Castle

Morning: Explore Butchart Gardens

No trip to Victoria is complete without visiting Butchart Gardens—a National Historic Site and one of the world’s top public gardens.

• Transport: Take Bus 75 from Downtown Victoria to Butchart Gardens (~45 minutes, covered by your DayPass). Alternatively, book a guided tour ($50–$70 CAD per person) that includes round-trip transport and a garden map.
• Tickets: Buy online in advance ($36 CAD for adults, $18 CAD for children 5–12). Arrive by 9 AM to avoid crowds and enjoy the gardens in soft morning light.
• What to See:
  • Sunken Garden: The most famous section—once a limestone quarry, now filled with tulips (spring), dahlias (summer), and chrysanthemums (fall).
  • Japanese Garden: Features a koi pond, wooden bridges, and cherry blossoms (spring).
  • Rose Garden: Over 2,500 rose bushes in 250+ varieties (blooms June–September).
• Tip: Pack a reusable water bottle (free refills available) and wear comfortable walking shoes—you’ll walk 2–3 miles here.

Afternoon: Craigdarroch Castle

Return to Downtown Victoria by 12:30 PM, grab lunch at a café (try Murchie’s Tea & Coffee for a sandwich and scone, $10–$15 CAD), then head to Craigdarroch Castle (10-minute bus ride from Downtown via Bus 11).

• Tickets: $24 CAD for adults, $12 CAD for children. Guided tours run every 30 minutes—don’t miss them! The castle’s history is fascinating: built in 1890 by Robert Dunsmuir, a Scottish coal magnate.
• What to Explore:
  • Inside: 39 rooms with original Victorian-era furniture (mahogany tables, silk curtains), a grand staircase, and a library with 1,700+ books.
  • Outside: The rooftop offers panoramic views of Victoria and the Strait of Georgia.
• Time to Spend: 1.5–2 hours.

Evening: Optional Ghost Tour & Dinner

Victoria has a rich (and spooky!) history—end the day with a Ghostly Walks Tour ($25 CAD per person, 7 PM start). Guides in period costumes share stories of the city’s haunted buildings (e.g., the Empress Hotel, Old Town).For dinner, head to Cook Street Village (a 10-minute walk from Downtown):

• The Pink Bicycle: A cozy bistro serving BC craft beer and pub food (try the chicken wings or veggie burger, $15–$20 CAD).

Day 3: City Culture & Indigenous Heritage

Morning: Beacon Hill Park

Start your day at Beacon Hill Park—183 acres of green space with gardens, trails, and Indigenous art.

• Transport: Walk from Downtown (15 minutes) or take Bus 6 ($5 CAD).
• Top Attractions:
  • World’s Tallest Free-Standing Totem Pole: A 127-foot cedar totem pole carved by Indigenous artists from the Kwakwaka’wakw nation. It tells stories of creation and family lineage—read the plaque nearby for context.
  • Petting Zoo: Visit the Children’s Farmyard to feed goats, sheep, and chickens (free entry, 10 AM–4 PM).
  • Beacon Hill Lookout: Climb a short trail to the top for views of the Inner Harbour and Olympic Mountains (Washington State).
• Time to Spend: 1.5–2 hours. Pack a picnic (grab snacks from a local grocery store like Thrifty Foods) to enjoy in the park.

Afternoon: Royal BC Museum & Chinatown

After the park, walk 10 minutes to the Royal BC Museum—one of Canada’s best museums, focusing on BC’s history, Indigenous culture, and natural world.

• Tickets: $32 CAD for adults, $16 CAD for children. Book online to skip lines.
• Must-See Exhibits:
  • First Peoples Gallery: Displays Indigenous artifacts (masks, totem poles, canoes) and interactive exhibits about traditional life.
  • Natural History Gallery: See a life-size woolly mammoth replica and learn about BC’s ecosystems (forests, oceans, mountains).
  • Old Town: A recreated 1920s street with a general store, pharmacy, and newspaper office—great for photos.
• Time to Spend: 2–2.5 hours.

Next, walk 5 minutes to Victoria’s Chinatown—Canada’s oldest (founded 1858) and one of North America’s most authentic.

• Highlights:
  • Fan Tan Alley: Canada’s narrowest street (just 1.1 meters wide!). Lined with boutique shops (sell handmade jewelry, tea) and restaurants.
  • Chinatown Museum: Free entry—learn about the history of Chinese immigrants in BC (open 11 AM–4 PM).
• Lunch/Dinner: Eat at Silver City Restaurant—a family-owned spot serving dim sum (try har gow shrimp dumplings, $8–$12 CAD per plate) or chow mein.

Evening: Government Street Shopping

Walk 10 minutes from Chinatown to Government Street—Victoria’s main shopping district. Browse:

• Souvenir Shops: Buy maple syrup, Canadian-themed clothing, or Indigenous art (e.g., The Bay Centre mall).
• Bookstores: Visit Bolen Books (a local favorite with a large selection of travel guides and fiction).End the night with a drink at The Bard & Banker—a historic pub in a 1901 bank building. Try a local beer like Phillips Blue Buck Ale ($7 CAD).

Day 4: Coastal Nature & Seafood Delights

Morning: Malahat SkyWalk

Escape the city for Malahat SkyWalk—a thrilling outdoor attraction 30 minutes north of Victoria.

• Transport: Take Bus 61 from Downtown Victoria (~30 minutes, $5 CAD) or rent a car ($50–$70 CAD/day). Renting a car is better if you want flexibility (book via Hertz or Budget).
• Tickets: $32 CAD for adults, $16 CAD for children. The skywalk is a 600-meter elevated boardwalk leading to a 32-meter spiral tower.
• What to Do:
  • Climb the tower for 360° views of the Saanich Inlet, Malahat Mountain, and Vancouver Island forests.
  • Try the Spiral Slide: A 100-meter slide down the tower (free with entry)—fun for all ages (no height restriction).
• Tip: Go early (9 AM) to avoid fog (common in the morning) and crowds. Wear a light jacket—temperatures are 5–10°C cooler than the city.

Afternoon: Fisherman’s Wharf

Return to Victoria by 12:30 PM and head to Fisherman’s Wharf—a colorful waterfront village with floating homes, seafood stalls, and boat tours.

• Transport: Take Bus 27 from Downtown (~20 minutes, $5 CAD).
• Activities:
  • Eat Fresh Seafood: Buy lobster rolls ($18 CAD), clam chowder ($8 CAD), or oysters (shucked to order) from stalls like Hooked Seafood.
  • Boat Tours: Book a 1-hour harbor tour ($25 CAD per person) to see seals, bald eagles, and Victoria’s waterfront mansions.
  • Visit Floating Homes: Walk along the docks and admire the quirky, colorful houses (many have gardens and decks).
• Time to Spend: 2–3 hours.

Evening: Whale Watching (Seasonal)

If visiting May–September, don’t miss whale watching—Victoria is one of the best places in Canada to see orcas (killer whales), humpbacks, and gray whales.

• Tours: Book with Prince of Whales or Eagle Wing Tours ($90–$120 CAD per person, 3-hour tours). Departures from Fisherman’s Wharf at 4 PM or 6 PM.
• What to Expect: Guides share facts about whales and their habitats. Most tours guarantee sightings (if not, you get a free repeat tour).
• Tip: Wear warm layers (even in summer) and bring binoculars (some tours provide them).

After the tour, dine at Fisherman’s Wharf Restaurant—enjoy grilled salmon with roasted potatoes ($25 CAD) while watching the sunset over the water.

Day 5: Art, Leisure & Afternoon Tea

Morning: Emily Carr House & Cook Street Village

Start with Emily Carr House—the childhood home of Emily Carr (1871–1945), one of Canada’s most famous artists (known for her paintings of Indigenous totem poles and BC forests).

• Location: 207 Government Street (10-minute walk from Downtown).
• Tickets: $15 CAD for adults, $8 CAD for students. Guided tours (11 AM and 2 PM) share stories of Carr’s life and art.
• What to See: Original furniture (e.g., Carr’s desk), her paintings, and a garden with native BC plants.
• Time to Spend: 1 hour.

Next, walk 5 minutes to Cook Street Village—a charming neighborhood with tree-lined streets, boutique shops, and cafes.

• Activities:
  • Browse Cook Street Village Books (a cozy indie bookstore with a café).
  • Shop for local crafts at The Handworks Gallery (sell pottery, jewelry, and textiles).
  • Grab coffee at Discovery Coffee (try their lavender latte, $6 CAD).

Afternoon: Beacon Hill Park (Return) or Parliament Tour

If you loved Beacon Hill Park on Day 3, return for a longer walk:

• Rent a bike ($20 CAD/hour from Wheelies Rent-A-Bike) and cycle the park’s trails.
• Visit the Beacon Hill Children’s Farm (if traveling with kids) to pet animals.

Alternatively, take a free tour of the Legislative Buildings (12 PM–3 PM, hourly). Tours cover the building’s history, architecture, and BC’s government (no tickets needed—just meet at the main entrance).

Evening: Afternoon Tea at The Fairmont Empress

A Victoria tradition—afternoon tea at The Fairmont Empress is a must-do.

• Booking: Reserve 2–3 weeks in advance (online or by phone). Cost: $75–$100 CAD per person (includes tea, sandwiches, scones, and pastries).
• What to Expect: Served in the Empress Room (grand, with crystal chandeliers). Choose from 20+ teas (try the Empress Blend—black tea with citrus). The scones come with clotted cream and strawberry jam.
• Dress Code: Smart casual (no flip-flops or tank tops).

After tea, walk along the Inner Harbour to watch the sunset.

Accommodation: James Bay

Move to James Bay (a 15-minute walk from Downtown) for a change of scenery. James Bay is quieter, with waterfront parks and historic homes.

• Recommendations:
  • James Bay Inn (waterfront rooms, $160–$220 CAD/night).
  • The Oswego Hotel (modern rooms with kitchenettes, $180–$250 CAD/night).

Day 6: Day Trip or Free Exploration

Use Day 6 to explore Victoria’s surroundings or revisit your favorite spots. Here are 4 popular options:

Option 1: Saanich Peninsula Wine Tour

The Saanich Peninsula (30 minutes north of Victoria) is home to 20+ wineries—famous for cool-climate wines (pinot noir, chardonnay).

• Transport: Book a guided tour ($80–$120 CAD per person) with Vancouver Island Wine Tours—includes round-trip transport, wine tastings at 3 wineries, and a cheese platter.
• Top Wineries:
  • De Vine Estate Winery: Try their pinot noir (tasting fee $15 CAD).
  • Church & State Wines: A scenic winery with a patio overlooking vineyards.
• Time: 10 AM–4 PM.

Option 2: Whale Watching (If You Missed Day 4)

If you didn’t go whale watching on Day 4, book a morning tour ($90–$120 CAD). May–September is peak season for orcas; October–April is best for gray whales.

Option 3: Golfing

Victoria has world-class golf courses. Try Cordova Bay Golf Course (20 minutes north of Downtown):

• Green fees: $80–$120 CAD for 18 holes. Rent clubs for $40 CAD.
• The course has ocean views and challenging holes (suitable for all skill levels).

Option 4: Free Exploration

Revisit:

• Butchart Gardens (go in the evening for fewer crowds—they host summer concerts on Wednesdays).
• Chinatown (try dinner at Congee Noodle House for authentic Chinese food).
• Inner Harbour (rent a kayak, $30 CAD/hour, to explore the water).

Evening: International Dinner

Victoria has diverse cuisine—try something new:

• La Taqueria (Mexican): Fish tacos ($12 CAD) and margaritas ($8 CAD).
• Indian Oven (Indian): Butter chicken ($18 CAD) and naan bread ($4 CAD).
• Pagliacci’s (Italian): Pizza with BC mushrooms ($16 CAD).

Day 7: Shopping & Departure

Morning: Final Shopping

Spend the morning buying souvenirs:

• Government Street: Visit Maple Leaf Shop (sell maple syrup, chocolate, and Canadian flags).
• Inner Harbour Market: Open 10 AM–4 PM (weekends)—buy handmade crafts (e.g., Indigenous carvings, woolen scarves).
• The Bay Centre: A mall with brands like Lululemon and Hudson’s Bay (great for Canadian clothing).

Afternoon: Departure

• To Vancouver via Ferry: Take Bus 70 to Swartz Bay Terminal (~40 minutes). Catch the ferry to Tsawwassen Terminal (book a 12 PM–2 PM departure to avoid rush hour). From Tsawwassen, take a bus or taxi to Vancouver (YVR Airport, ~1 hour).
• To Victoria International Airport (YYJ): Take Bus 88 from Downtown Victoria (~30 minutes, $5 CAD). YYJ has flights to Vancouver, Seattle, Toronto, and international destinations (e.g., Los Angeles, Mexico City).
• Tip: Arrive at the ferry terminal/airport 1.5–2 hours early (peak season delays are common).

Budget Estimate (Per Person, CAD)

Category	Budget ($)	Mid-Range ($)	Luxury ($)
Accommodation (6 nights)	840–1,200	1,500–2,100	2,500–3,500
Dining (7 days)	210–350	420–630	700–1,000
Transport (ferry, bus, car)	100–150	200–300	400–600
Attraction Tickets	120–180	200–280	350–500
Shopping & Extras	200–300	400–600	800–1,200
Total	1,470–2,180	2,720–3,910	4,750–6,800

Practical Tips for International Travelers

1. Transport Hacks:
   • Buy a BC Transit DayPass ($10 CAD) for unlimited bus rides—cheaper than single tickets.
   • If renting a car, use Google Maps (download offline maps for areas with no cell service).
   • Ferries book up fast—reserve 2–3 weeks in advance (June–August).
2. Weather Prep:
   • Victoria’s weather is unpredictable—even in summer, carry a light rain jacket and umbrella.
   • Wear waterproof walking shoes (especially for gardens or trails).
3. Saving Money:
   • Book attraction tickets online (many offer 10% discounts).
   • Stay in hotels with free breakfast (e.g., Pacific Gateway Hotel) to save on meals.
   • Buy groceries from Thrifty Foods to make picnics (cheaper than eating out for every meal).
4. Cultural Respect:
   • When visiting Indigenous sites (e.g., totem poles), ask before taking photos.
   • Learn basic Indigenous terms (e.g., “kʷikʷəƛ̓əm” means “thank you” in the Lekwungen language—spoken by local First Nations).
5. Safety:
   • Victoria is a safe city, but keep valuables (passports, phones) in a crossbody bag.
   • Drink tap water—it’s safe and free (avoid buying bottled water).

Conclusion

Victoria, BC, offers a perfect mix of history, nature, and culture—this 7-day itinerary lets you experience it all. From the blooms of Butchart Gardens to the charm of the Inner Harbour, from fresh seafood to Indigenous art, every day brings a new adventure. Whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or a partner, Victoria will leave you with memories to last a lifetime. Start planning today, and get ready to fall in love with Canada’s Garden City!