plan my trip victoria

This website requires JavaScript to be turned on.

Plan a trip with Visit Victoria

Are you planning a trip around Victoria? Victoria is home to a wide range of diverse tourism and event experiences.

As a tourist, you can explore a range of things to see and do, eat and drink, and experience the regional beauty of Victoria. If you’re looking to plan your trip to or around Victoria, Visit Victoria has everything you need.

Whether you’re taking a road trip to the High Country or exploring some of Victoria’s best restaurants , you’ll have an unforgettable time.

On a road trip? Plan out your trip using Visit Victoria’s route planner . Find places to stay , deals and more.

We acknowledge the Aboriginal Traditional Owners of Country throughout Victoria, their ongoing connection to this land and we pay our respects to their culture and their Elders past, present and future.

© 2023 Department of Jobs, Skills, Industry and Regions

This page was printed at:  

Public Transport Victoria app 4+

Public transport victoria, designed for iphone.

• #11 in Travel
• 1.9 • 2.6K Ratings

iPhone Screenshots

Description.

Make travel easier. Real time information, journey planning and myki top up. Welcome aboard the Public Transport Victoria (PTV) app where you can top up your myki, plan your journey, get travel alerts and more. The PTV app lets you plan your journey using trains, trams, and buses, making travel around Melbourne and Victoria simple and convenient. Create an account and register your myki for added security. You can also schedule auto top up so you are always ready to travel. Personalise the app by saving your favourite routes and stops and get real time notification alerts for your preferred stops and journeys. - myki top up: Hold your myki to the back of your phone to check your balance and top up instantly - Apple Pay: Pay with Apple Pay for myki Money and myki Pass - Account management: Keep track of your mykis and easily access their balance, expiry dates, transactions, and travel history - Auto top up: Set up auto top up to ensure you always have sufficient balance on your myki - Alerts: Stay informed of disruptions to your journey, news and myki - Real time information: Get real time departure information for upcoming services - Live tracking: Watch your service arrive at any stop (available for bus and train only) - Favourites: Save your favourite stops, lines, journeys, and addresses for fast access - Reminders: Set journey planner reminders for leaving on time - Search: Look for destinations, stops, routes and myki outlets, or use your current location to search for nearby transport options. If you enjoy using our app, please leave us a review. If you would like to contact us about anything, please email [email protected]. Please note: Offline mode is not available in this app. The app is online only and requires an internet connection. This helps us to always provide you with the most up-to-date public transport information.

Version 4.6.2

Bug fixes and stability improvements

Ratings and Reviews

2.6K Ratings

Favorites stops won’t show scheduled times and can’t see any stops near location

Ever since upgrading my iPhone from iOS 16 to 17, using the app became more of a pain in the *#%<! Before upgrading, the favorite page would should my favorite stop (and it’s headed direction) its scheduled time, which now showing me —:—, forcing me to actually go an extra step and look at the actual train I want to look at time, which renders the favorite page useless at this point. With the stops near my location or where I am looking at, I would be able to look at the closest stops near me and also go look around to see the other stops or even pinpoint where I want to go to/start the journey, now I can’t see other stops other than my location, and if I want to look at nearby stops, I have to zoom out and press the location button, but it doesn’t always show what I wanted to see, and only show stops in the area my screen is in, for example, I’m at the CBD, then I zoomed to see Coburg, I would see the stops around the edges of the screen of the location I am currently viewing, very annoying. I tried calling PT on the phone, they told me to go to Southern X Station, then when I did, they said they couldn’t do much and told me to send an email, very frustrating, please fix this as not only me, but many others on iOS 17 most likely experiencing the same issue!

They tried fixing something that wasn’t broken

The PTV app use to be great! It use to be simple and efficient, telling you the closest options and when they come. It was simple and useful and had few issues to speak of. Use to. Now it’s clunky, unnecessarily complicated and has lost a lot to its use. It use to be that on the front page you had the stops you favourited and stops a 5 minute walk away from you at that moment. Then they removed that amazing feature and now it’s only the favourited stops you can see. You needlessly have to go through a menu and map to see the time table of the bus stop your already at, and how far away the bus actually is. And there is also the issue of many lines, routes and stops not showing up at all. My local bus route is only showing in one direction now and the bus interchange at a train station I regularly stop at is in the wrong spot, ruining the already sub par journey planner. It’s now easier to go and take a photo of the timetable at the bus stop and trust that more than this impossible app. It wasn’t broken, why did you have to brake it.

The iOS myki top up system is soooo bad

Let me break down on how tedious it is to top up your myki from an iPhone. First you have to sign up or log in to the app which isn’t too big of a deal. Although I resent the fact that you can’t stay logged in for however long you want as the app will log you out after 30 days. Then you have to take off your phone case if you have one which most people do. Then take out your myki card and payment card from your wallet. And then the most frustrating part. After selecting “top up” the app will ask you to scan your myki but the scanning is soooooo inconsistent and it typically takes 10+ tries to get a “correct” scan. After that you input your card details and then what’s next? Yup even more inconsistent and frustrating failed scans. I don’t even know which card position is optimal for scanning and the fact that you need to take off your case is just extra tedious. At minimum please make it easier to scan our myki’s on ios or remove the scanning process altogether and find a different more reliable method. I don’t know how this much needed and long waited feature even made it pass testing to be honest. Especially considering that most of us use this feature on the tram when we realise our myki is running low. Please fix soon.

App Privacy

The developer, Public Transport Victoria , indicated that the app’s privacy practices may include handling of data as described below. For more information, see the developer's privacy policy .

Data Linked to You

The following data may be collected and linked to your identity:

• Financial Info
• Contact Info
• Identifiers

Data Not Linked to You

The following data may be collected but it is not linked to your identity:

• User Content
• Search History
• Diagnostics

Privacy practices may vary, for example, based on the features you use or your age. Learn More

Information

• Developer Website
• App Support
• Privacy Policy

You Might Also Like

Petrol Spy Australia

Mad Paws - Pet Sitting Service

Tourist Refund Scheme

Flight Centre: Cheap Flights

Neuron E-scooters and E-bikes

Create an account

Start your adventure today.

Already a member? Login

The Ultimate Travel Guide to Victoria

Quick navigation, about victoria, how to get to victoria, best time to visit victoria, how to get around victoria, where to stay in victoria, where to eat in victoria, things to do in victoria, dangers in victoria, frequently asked questions about travelling in victoria, fun facts about victoria.

• West Coast Article Series

Join our newsletter

Get a weekly dose of discounts and inspiration for adventure lovers

The salty seaboard, lively harbour, and array of hiking and biking routes and trails etched along the shoreline, and surrounding mountainous region makes Victoria the ultimate Canadian island-getaway destination for families, outdoor lovers, and anyone and everyone. In this ultimate guide for planning a trip to Victoria, you’ll learn all about British Columbia’s capital city: how to get there, what to do, and the necessary information before you kickstart your exciting adventure.

Take a moment to think of England, Holland, and tropical island getaways. Got it? Okay, now blend these three images together and add a sprinkle of Canadian vibes. What do you get? Victoria. You’ll find a glimpse of Holland via the avid road cyclists twisting through the English-styled architecture. And when you head to the harbour or walk along the sea-scented shoreline, the laid-back, chilled-out island atmosphere will remind you of a tropical island. But gusts of cold air will highlight that you’re still in Canada (and the occasional “eh”).

Outside of the architecture, gardens, and cultural influences and nods, you’ll find an array of activities suitable for all types of adventurers, personalities, and age groups. Opt to go on hiking, biking, kayaking, paddleboarding adventures, and top off your outdoor experiences with a cold craft beer at one of the many trendy restaurants peppering downtown.

If you’re looking to immerse in nature totally, you can easily go on day trips to the surrounding parks: Gowlland Tod Provincial Park, East Sooke Park, Goldstream Provincial Park, Mount Work Regional Park, and more. But keep in mind that nature cloaks the city, so even when you’re away from these parks, you’ll still experience the soothing calmness that often accompanies being outdoors—with a quaint, welcoming city twist. Victoria has around 70 parks!

Ready to plan your trip to Victoria? Continue reading for tips on how to get there, what to do, where to eat and stay!

Marina at Victoria British Columbia Canada

Victoria sits along the southern side of Vancouver Island, but it’s still relatively easy to access the city despite its island location. If you’re driving, you’ll have to hop on a ferry, but the ocean views will keep you entertained as you travel across the Pacific Ocean. It’s super windy on the deck, but makes for some good photos. Or you can fly into Victoria International Airport, which sits around 25 minutes outside of the city.

Flying to Victoria

If you’re flying to Victoria, it’s best to book a flight that takes you right to Victoria International Airport. Hopping off a plane in Vancouver will force you to either rent a car and travel by ferry to the island or purchase a walk-on ticket for the boat ride over.

There are a few options to take once you reach the airport:

• Walk 2.0 km towards East Saanich at McTavish, where you’ll take the Line 72 bus. This bus costs $3 and takes around 35 minutes to reach Douglas at Hillside in Victoria. You can also walk 2.1 km towards McTavish Exchange Bay G, where you can hop on Line 70, 71, or 72 bus for $3. It will take around 35 minutes to reach Douglas at Finlayson in Victoria.
• You can also drive or take a taxi. The 26.0 km drive can take around 25 minutes.

You can also take a floatplane from Vancouver Harbour to Victoria Harbour.

Ferry to Victoria

Whether you’re driving, walking, cycling, motorbiking, or taking public transport, you’ll need to take a ferry to get to Victoria.

One option is—depending on where you are coming from—to take the ferry from Horseshoe Bay and get off in Nanaimo, another island town. It takes around 1.5 hours to drive from Nanaimo to Victoria. You can also take the IslandLink Bus or the Vancouver Island Connector . It’ll take you two hours to reach Victoria via public transport.

If you’re leaving from Vancouver, you can ferry from Tsawwassen. This trip takes around 1.5 hours. Feel free to check out the schedule on BC Ferries !

Are you coming from Seattle? No problem. Take the ferry from Port Angeles.

Public transport to Victoria

You can also hop on a bus for your ferry trip from Vancouver to Victoria. You can use the BC Ferries Connector to get from downtown Vancouver to downtown Victoria, and back!

Warm weather seekers will enjoy the temperatures between June and September. However, tourist avoiders who don’t mind a temperature drop will likely tolerate the weather in May and October. The trails will be less crowded during these months as well!

While snow cloaks most of Canada during the winter, Victoria instead receives buckets and buckets of rain, so you probably won’t enjoy visiting between November and March, unless you really love rain.

From cars to public transportation to walking to cycling to horse carriage rides, Victoria makes it easy for you to choose a mode of transportation that suits you or your desired activities. But if you were to choose anything, just know that the city boasts of excellent cycling opportunities as well, and it’s incredibly walkable.

Hiker looking at rugged shores near Victoria BC

Are you looking for the best spots to stay in Victoria? Take a look at these neighbourhoods: James Bay (waterfront location), Oak Bay (trendy), and downtown (hello, nightlife).

Hotels in James Bay

Enjoy the coastline views and taste the smell of fish and chips smell swirling off the nearby seafood restaurants as you meander the Fisherman’s Wharf. If you’re looking for an elegant option, you may consider booking The Hotel Grand Pacific or The Oswego Hotel . Budgeters will appreciate the quaint, cozy James Bay Inn !

Hotels in Oak Bay

Lined with soaring oak trees, trendy boutiques, delis, and cafes, Oak Bay knows how to please its visitors. To top it off, the nearby Willows Beach grants kayakers and paddle boarders with a relaxing paddle. Those willing to amp up the swank will like the waterfront views at Oak Bay Beach Hotel . The Oak Bay Guest House Bed and Breakfast also offers a slice of upscale, a sprinkle of relaxation, and a lot of character.

Hotels downtown

Revel in the nightlife spanning Wharf Street and Bastion Square by night, and explore the museums, galleries, and bask in the harbour views by day. Rest your head at the ever-so classy Magnolia Hotel and Spa or start your evening of fun on the rooftop at the Strathcona Hotel—this building harks back to the gold rush era in Victoria. Or you can enjoy a budget-friendly stay at HI Hostel .

Other great options to stay in Victoria

Not into staying in a hotel? Why not consider camping? The following campgrounds may be a little outside Victoria, but that doesn’t mean you can’t wander into the city on a non-adventure day.

Consider setting up your tent at Goldstream Provincial Park. And be sure to go on the short, but fascinating Goldstream Trestle Hike while you’re here.

Or you can try the Spring Salmon Places Campground in Sooke Potholes Regional Park. Admire the fairytale-like waterfalls here! These wild campsites run on a first-come, first-serve basis only.

Looking for a beachfront spot? Look into the Island View Beach Regional Park Campground. It’s not super private, but hey, at least you’ll fall asleep to the bliss of ocean waves flirting with the shore.

Beautiful architecture seen at Victoria British Columbia

Victoria boasts of a smorgasbord of trendy cafes and bakeries. But since there are many options, we’ve decided to share some of the best spots for you to help alleviate the stress that often accompanies food-related decisions:

Best seafood spot: Finn’s or The Fish Store at Fisherman’s Wharf . Expect Finn’s to take seafood to the next level. You can also go for quick, tasty bites at the floating Fish Store at Fisherman’s Wharf.

Best cafe: Blue Fox Cafe . Beware! If you eat here in the morning, you won’t want to eat for the rest of the day: the portions are big. It could be an excellent breakfast or lunch spot before an adventure day.

Best bakery: La Roux Patisserie . Feel like you’re in Paris in this elegant, cozy bakery! Consider stopping by here for a tasty treat after a hiking or biking or kayaking excursion.

Best restaurant: John’s Place Restaurant . Grab a hearty breakfast or lunch at this local hotspot! Try to stop by during Happy Hour, which is between 2-5 from Monday to Friday.

Outdoor lovers will appreciate the natural playground in and around Victoria. Spend hours hiking, cycling, mountain biking, kayaking, or paddleboarding. Outside of active ventures, you’ll also find other remarkable options that abide by Victoria’s quirky, chilled-out vibes.

Hiking in Victoria

Expect to find a myriad of hikes surrounding Victoria . You may not associate British Columbia’s capital with hiking, thanks to its prime oceanfront location, but the mountainscapes painting the backdrop have several unique trails. While most hikes in Victoria are on the shorter side, they do not cheap out on views.

For the best hikes, locals and visitors alike tend to flock to Gowlland Tod Provincial Park, East Sooke Park, Goldstream Provincial Park, and Mount Work Regional Park. Families will enjoy the mild elevation and gentle trail along the Witty’s Lagoon with Tower Point Hike . If you’re looking for a long, challenging hike with stunning views, try out the East Sooke Coast Trail Hike . Or enjoy a picturesque blend of mountain and water views on the 10 km Jocelyn Hill from Caleb Pike Hike .

Cycling in Victoria

Victoria really is a biker’s paradise. With a network of easy to moderate loops twisting along and by the seascape, waterways, vineyards, parks, and more. Get ready for a picturesque ride, no matter which route you decide to take. One of our favourites? The Seaside Loop. This lovely 40.8 km ride takes you by harbours, parks, and cafes.

Families will really enjoy the 10.3 km Colquitz River Trail bike ride! Pedal by the Panama Flats and end your journey at the Red Barn Market. For a more challenging excursion, give the 62.0 km , out-and-back Lochside Trail to Sidney a try. Pedal by lush farmland and quiet inlets before returning to Victoria.

Mountain bikers can find fantastic trails in Bear Mountain Resort or Mount Work Regional Park.

Turquose water and rugged shores at Victoria BC

Water sports in Victoria

Spend relaxing mornings, afternoons, or evenings paddle boarding or kayaking around Victoria. Grab your paddles and meander around the following spots:

• Thetis Lake
• Gorge Waterway
• Esquimalt Lagoon
• Langford Lake
• Matheson Lake
• Inner Harbour
• Gonzales Beach
• Willows Beach
• Cadboro Bay

Other can’t-miss activities in Victoria

Victoria has several quirky activities worth taking advantage of! Whether you’re looking for something chill or fascinating or nature-centric, British Columbia’s capital has you covered.

• Visit Butchart Gardens! Revel in the palette of colours and lush fields of green as you wind through this stunning garden.
• Go to Miniature World! Marvel at the miniature depictions of historical moments and fictional realms. This museum is also home to the world’s largest dollhouses and model railways.
• Check out Hatley Park National Historic Site! Let’s face it: Canada boasts of natural beauty, but it lacks architectural wonders. This castle is one of the most stunning pieces of architecture in Canada! You can also get your steps in by strolling around the gardens surrounding this monumental building.
• Shop along Lower Johnson Street! Enjoy the number of independent shops and boutiques lining this vibrant street.
• Go on a carriage tour! Bask in luxury (and relaxation) in a horse-drawn carriage. Enjoy the layers of attractions spanning Victoria.
• Walk around Fisherman’s Wharf! Check out the 33 floating houses dotting this postcard-painted harbour. Whenever you get hungry, stop by one of the seafood restaurants in this area.
• Stroll through Chinatown! Quick fact: Victoria’s Chinatown is the second oldest in North America and the oldest in Canada.
• Hop on a pickle boat! Embark on a sightseeing tour via a boat shaped like a pickle.
• Relax at the beach! Want a break from all of your adventures? Spend some time relaxing at Willow Beach, but don’t expect to swim. The water is super cold; if you want warmer water, head to Thetis Lake.
• Go whale watching! Most whale watching tours in Victoria will allow you to go on another tour for free if no whales pop up on your boat ride.

Poodle looking down on the beautiful lake near Victoria BC

Overall, Victoria is a very safe city! Most dangers derive from the environment, such as flooding, tsunamis, earthquakes. But only earthquakes fall under the “High Risk” category . In general, the crime rate is relatively low.

Is Victoria expensive?

Victoria is considered to be one of the most expensive places to live in Canada. In 2019, PadMapper shared that Victoria sits in the top 5 of the most costly places to reside in the True North. But when it comes to food and drink, expect similar prices to the rest of Canada. On average, a basic dinner for two at a pub costs around $48. Do note that you can easily walk everywhere, so that should help lower transportation costs.

Is Victoria safe at night?

Yes! Most people consider Victoria to be safe when the sun lowers into the horizon. However, it’s still smart to keep your wits about you during the night.

Does it snow in Victoria?

Compared to the rest of Canada, Victoria doesn’t see much snow. And even when it does fall, it doesn’t stick to the ground for very long—the charming city averages around 26 cm of snow a year. However, there have been several snowless winters. It will get rainy, though! So bring warm clothes if you plan on coming during the colder months.

Charm locals with some of these random fun facts about Victoria when you go!

• Victoria is named after Queen Victoria.
• This city receives around 608 mm of rain annually.
• Get ready to eat here! Victoria boasts of the second most restaurants per capita in North America. San Francisco holds the top spot.
• Victoria has over 70 parks!
• British Columbia’s capital is considered the Cycling Capital of Canada.
• Five species of whales float in the waters flanking Victoria.

You’re now ready to plan your trip to Victoria in British Columbia, Canada! Grab your calendar and start choosing which date to book your flight, ferry, or whatever mode of transportation you decide to use to reach this lovely city, which boasts of several activities, stunning architecture, and a lot of restaurants. Before you go, be sure to look at our adventure guides for Victoria —find specific routes tailor-made for you.

Articles about Trip Planning to the Canada's West Coast

If you have a big task on your hands to plan a trip to the West Coast of Canada, look no further! Check out the list below to find all the information that you might need.

Planning your West Coast Trip

• Planning your trip to Squamish
• Planning your trip to Strathcona Provincial Park
• Planning your trip to Victoria
• Planning your trip to Whistler

Vancouver and Sea to Sky Articles

• Easy Family Hikes around Vancouver
• Greatest Dayhikes around Vancouver
• Planning your Winter Weekend in Whistler
• Winter Adventures near Vancouver

Vancouver Island Articles

• Best Kayaking in Vancouver and Vancouver Island
• Camping in Strathcona Provincial Park
• North Coast Trail
• Skiing ACC's newest hut
• Ski Touring Vancouver Island
• Waterfall Ice Climbing on Vancouver Island

Top Destinations

Tour activities, top regions, get travel inspiration and discounts.

Join our weekly travel newsletter

The Perfect 3 Day Victoria Itinerary And Guide (2023)

By: Author Lotte

Posted on Last updated: March 2, 2023

Categories Canada

Victoria is the capital of British Columbia and is located on Vancouver Island . Compact, colorful, and creative, Victoria is the perfect weekend getaway from Vancouver .

It doesn't matter if you have one day in Victoria or an entire week, there are plenty of fun things to do in Victoria for the entire family.

Victoria frequently features in Top Places to Visit lists from popular travel magazines and websites such as Condé Nast Traveler and TripAdvisor and rightly so: Victoria is a beautiful city and highly worth a visit!

This Victoria itinerary will help you make the most of your trip to Victoria.

Victoria itinerary

Disclosure: Some links in this post are affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you!). We're very grateful when you use our links to make a purchase:-).

What to do in Victoria: map

Click here for the interactive map

The best things to do in Victoria BC

• Get breakfast at the Crust Bakery
• Tour the British Columbia Parliament Building
• Walk around Victoria Old Town and Chinatown
• Enjoy the famous Tea at the Empress
• Hike around Beacon Hill Park
• Watch the sunset from the Inner Harbor
• Visit the Royal BC Museum
• Stroll around Fishermans's Wharf
• Admire Craigdarroch Castle
• Enjoy delicious tacos at Tacofino
• Take a trip to the Butchart Gardens
• Go on a whale-watching tour

Plan your Canada trip like a pro with these tools: ✈️ Find the best flight deals with Kiwi.com . ? Rent a campervan for your Canada road trip (or a car via Rentalcars.com ). ? Arrange your Canada working holiday with Global Work & Travel . ? Plan your journey with the Canada Lonely Planet . ?️ Find the best hotel deals on Booking.com . ? Join the best tours in Canada via Get Your Guide or Viator . ?️ Travel safely and get reliable travel insurance from Safety Wing .

Where to stay in Victoria

There is plenty of accommodation available in Victoria, ranging from budget hostels to luxury (boutique hotels).

I've written a detailed guide to the best hotels in Victoria , be sure to check it out to make sure you choose the best Victoria accommodation for your stay.

If you are prepared to splurge , I'd recommend staying at the luxurious 5-star Fairmont Empress Hotel (pictured above). As I mentioned above, they serve a wicked high tea and it's one of Victoria's most famous buildings.

If available, book a room overlooking the Inner Harbour. You'll be able to watch the sunset from your window!

There are nice mid-range hotels as well, such as the Oswego Hotel (pictured below) and the Royal Scot Hotel & Suites .

There are a couple of options for budget travelers as well, the Helms Inn and Red Lion Inn are well-reviewed affordable hotels in Victoria.

Note: Prices for these Victoria accommodation options depend on the time of year and how far in advance you book. Therefore, the prices mentioned above are a rough indication of the price per night to help you compare the different options. Press ‘click here' under book to see the latest prices on Booking and book ahead to get the best deal.

How to get to Victoria

Since Victoria is located on an island you either have to take a ferry or a flight to get there.

Take the ferry to Victoria

If you are traveling from Tsawwassen, the ferry terminal closest to Victoria is Swartz Bay (about 30km north of Victoria). With BC Ferries Connector you can effortlessly travel directly from downtown Vancouver to Victoria City Center.

Note: if you are traveling from the U.S.A. you can take a ferry from Port Angeles and Seattle directly to Victoria Inner Harbour !

Book a flight to Victoria

The other option is to arrive by plane. Victoria has an International Airport located about 20km from downtown.

Click here for the best ticket deals on Kiwi.

3 days in Victoria summery

• Day 1: Grab some breakfast at Crust Bakery, take a tour around the British Columbia Parliament Building, stroll through Victoria Old Town , join the famous High Tea at the Empress, visit Beacon Hill Park and watch the sunset from the Inner Harbor.
• Day 2: Visit the Royal BC Museum, explore Fishermans’s Wharf, take a tour around Craigdarroch Castle, and eat your weight in tacos at Tacofino.
• Day 3: visit the Butchart Gardens , go on a whale-watching tour or join a guided 3-hour kayak tour in Victoria’s beautiful harbor.

? Short on time? Check out this 4-day adventure tour to Vancouver Island , including the most popular highlights in Victoria, Nanaimo, and Tofino. 

Victoria itinerary day 1

Breakfast at crust bakery.

On the first day of this Victoria 3 day itinerary, there is no better way to start your day than by getting a coffee from Canada's famous coffee chain Tim Hortons .

For breakfast, pick up some (or a lot;-) of the freshly bakes goodies at the Crust Bakery (which opens at 8 am).

British Columbia Parliament Building

Head to the British Columbia Parliament Building and join one of the free tours.

The British Columbia Parliament is not only an impressive building with unique architecture, but the story about how this building came to be is also a very amusing one…

Back in the 1890s, the British Columbia government held an architectural competition. Whoever won this competition would be the architect of their new legislative building.

There was one requirement though: the architect needed to be Canadian…

But Francis Rattenbury, a young and aspiring architect who had just emigrated from the U.K., entered the competition under a false name and won! To be fair, he designed a beautiful building that’s still in use.

I learned all this on a free tour around the Parliament Buildings which may have been the funniest tour I’ve ever taken…

The tour was led by a young actor playing the role of Francis Rattenbury, complete with a British accent and historic costume.

He led us around the building whilst sharing his life story and telling us more about the construction process.

Spoiler: the life of Francis Rattenbury was filled with scandals. He divorced his first wife and eventually was murdered back in England by his second wife’s lover…

Anyway, not only did I laugh throughout the entire tour, but I also learned a lot about the building. Altogether a highly recommended activity!

You can find more information about the free tours in the British Columbia Parliament Buildings  here .

Victoria Old Town

After the tour, it's time to head to Victoria Old Town which is just a short walk from the Parliament Buildings.

Victoria has one of the largest historic areas in British Columbia with many beautiful old buildings. There are three distinct areas in Victoria Old Town:

• The old commercial district
• The Inner Harbor (the buildings along the waterfront from the Gold Rush era)

A quick tip: pick up a free map of the historic area at the Visitor Center which contains lots of information about the Old Town and makes it easier to find the must-see historic buildings. Or join this great walking tour to learn more about Victoria's history and sample local products along the way.

The area belonging to Victoria's Old Town is located in the area between these streets: Chatham Street (north border), Humboldt Street (south border), Douglas Street (east border), the Wharf and Store Streets, and Waterfront (west border). 

You can easily spend the entire afternoon here as Victoria Old Town is a really nice area to wander around.

Take a stroll along Government Street, visit Market Square, and grab a bite to eat at one of the many (Chinese) restaurants!

Enjoy a high Tea at the Empress

Circling back to the Inner Harbour it's time for a traditional Victoria activity: Tea at the Empress at the Fairmont Empress Hotel.

Fun fact: this building was also designed by the ‘presenting to be Canadian architect’ Francis Rattenbury! Another fun fact: during the summer months, the Empress serves more afternoon tea than most hotels in London !

The Fairmont Empress Hotel opened its doors in 1908 and is a city icon. Their famous high tea is served in the beautiful Lobby Lounge, and over 21 different kinds of teas are available (all of which are ethically produced).

The tea is accompanied by freshly prepared scones and other pastries made with locally sourced ingredients.

For example, the strawberry jam is made in-house from local berries, the honey comes from the Empress Hotel beehives, and the lavender from their own rooftop garden.

Altogether, Tea at the Empress is a unique tea-drinking experience and one that cannot miss when you visit Victoria BC!

Beacon Hill Park

If you feel like burning off some calories after your sumptuous high tea, head to Beacon Hill Park for some of the best walking tracks in Victoria .

Within the park, there are several hiking trails, a lovely pond, and beautiful gardens. You will also find the world's tallest free-standing Totem Pole and the best views of the Strait of Juan de Fuca.

Quick tip: visiting Victoria with kids? In Beacon Hill Park you can find two playgrounds as well as a petting zoo!

Inner Harbour

After all this walking it's time to relax. Head back to the Inner Harbour and have a pint at one of the cafes or watch the sunset from the grassy field in front of the British Columbia Parliament Building.

Victoria itinerary day 2

Royal bc museum.

On your second day in Victoria, it's time to visit the Royal BC Museum , which was founded in 1886. In this great museum, you can learn about the history of British Columbia.

There are three permanent galleries (about the First People, Natural History, and Modern History) and several temporary exhibitions. Check the website for more info about the current exhibitions .

Fisherman's Wharf

The next item on your ‘things to see in Victoria list' is Fisherman's Wharf , a very colorful and fun neighborhood.

In this floating village, you can admire the beautiful houseboats, explore quirky shops, and grab some lunch at one of the cute (floating) restaurants.

Craigdarroch Castle

A short drive from downtown Victoria (3.5km from Fisherman's Wharf, 2.5km from the Inner Harbour) you'll find Craigdarroch Castle .

This impressive mansion was built by self-made millionaire Robert Dunsmuir, who made a fortune from Vancouver Island coal.

Throughout the years the mansion served as a house, institutional school board office, the Victoria Conservatory, movie set, and wedding location.

After all this walking you are probably getting hungry! There are lots of great restaurants in Victoria, but if you like Mexican food you will love  Tacofino .

This lively taco bar with super helpful staff serves delicious tacos, burritos, and nachos for very reasonable prices.

Victoria itinerary day 3

Butchart gardens.

On your third day in Victoria, it's time to leave Victoria's city center and visit the famous Butchart Gardens .

Located only 20km north of Victoria these beautiful gardens are a great place to spend a day!

The Butchart Gardens are a National Historic Site of Canada and the result of the vision, passion, and dedication of Jenny Butchart.

There is the Sunken Garden (the first garden planted by Jennie Butchart, back in 1904!), the Japanese Garden, the Italian Garden and Mediterranean Gardens, and the fragrant Rose garden.  

Another highlight, especially for families with kids, is the Rose Carousel with 30 hand-carved wooden animals. A ride on the Carousel is only 2 CAD!

Furthermore, there are also a coffee shop, restaurant, and gift store (where you can buy lots of seeds!). Read more about the Gardens and how to get there here .

The easiest way to visit (if you don't have your own transport) is by booking this tour . Transportation a comfortable shuttle and entrance to the gardens are included.

Click here to book your Butchart Gardens tour

Whale watching tour

Staying in Victoria a bit longer? If you have four days in Victoria I highly recommend adding a whale-watching tour to your Victoria BC itinerary!

Victoria is a great spot to see killer whales (orca) but you're also likely to encounter humpback and gray whales.

Click here to book your whale-watching tour

If your schedule allows it and you have time for another great outdoor activity, consider taking a kayaking trip .

Here are some of the most popular kayaking options in and around Victoria:

• Victoria Harbour Kayak Tour  (3 hours)
• Discovery Island Kayak Tour  (6-7 hours)
• Broken Islands Kayaking Expedition  (5 days)

Victoria things to do: printable checklist

Victoria trip: in conclusion

I hope you will love Victoria as much as I did! Below you can download the Victoria things to do checklist.

For more Vancouver Island travel tips, check these posts:

• 20 things to do in Campbell River
• 20 things to do on Pender Island
• 20 things to do in Ucluelet
• 21 things to do in Nanaimo
• 25 things to do in Port Alberni
• Vancouver Island road trip

If you are looking for more Canada travel inspiration, check out my Canada page where you can find all the posts I've written about this wonderful country.

All Destinations , Australasia , Australia , Overland Itineraries

A perfect itinerary for australia’s victoria road trip.

A Victoria road trip is one of the most popular trips in Australia, especially if you’re living in Melbourne.

Although the state is compact, it has some impressive natural beauty that is easily accessible from the state capital. Encompassing the spectacular coastline of the Great Ocean Road, over to the enthralling diversity of the Grampians National Park, through the historically significant gold-rush area around Ballarat and past arty townships like Daylesford, this week-long Victoria road trip itinerary will show you some of the best that this Australian state has to offer.

Any car or campervan can be used for this road trip; there is no need for 4WD or AWD capability. You can opt to camp along the way, or stay in hostels and hotels en-route.

Use this Victorian road trip planner, which includes some recommendations for the best hotels and hostels, campgrounds and restaurants in certain areas, to create your dream trip.

And, if you are living in Melbourne but don’t have the time to take a whole week off for this trip, you could split it into three weekend trips from Melbourne.

Victoria Road Trip Route

Day 1: Melbourne

Kicking off your Victoria road trip than none other than its state capital, there’s plenty to keep you occupied in Melbourne for much longer than a day.

However, if you’re keen to see the great Victorian countryside and only have a day to soak in the city, you can fit the highlights in in one day.

Things to do in Melbourne

• See the street art of Hoiser Lane
• Check out the amazing architecture of the State Library of Victoria
• Visit Federation Square and the AMCI
• Get lost down one of the laneways
• Enjoy a coffee at one of Melbourne’s best cafes
• Head to St Kilda to watch the penguins
• Dine at the vegetarian pay as you wish restaurant, Lentil as Anything
• And heaps more! Here’s a great list of things to do in Melbourne .

Where to stay in Melbourne

Urban Central Hostel offers affordable dorm rooms and great facilities. Each bunk is kitted with its own private light and charging points, and the 4 bed dorms are spacious. On site is a large kitchen and communal area. Check out prices and book today using this link .

Alternatively, if you’re after private accomodation, QT Melbourne is a fantastic option. It offers fantastic modern conveniences and is conveniently placed very near St Paul’s Cathedral and Federation Square, and there is an on site restaurant, cafe and bar. Click here for rates and book today .

Day 2 & 3: The Great Ocean Road

One of the best things to do outside Melbourne, the Great Ocean Road is arguably Australia’s most famous stretch of coastline.

You can do the Great Ocean Road in a day, but it’s best to take some time and spend two days driving along the coastal route – especially in the summer, when temperatures can top 40 degrees and you’ll be wanting a dip in the ocean!

There’s plenty to see on the Great Ocean Road, which includes beaches (of course), rainforest and intriguing natural formations. The Great Ocean Road is also a great place to spot wildlife – keep an eye out for kangaroos, koalas, tiger snakes (not too common but they do lurk around) and native birds.

Day 2 – Torquay to Apollo Bay

Drive to Torquay and begin your exploration of the Great Ocean Road. Some of the best parts to visit on the eastern side of the Great Ocean Road include:

• Bells Beach – this is a popular surfing spot and beautiful beach
• Aireys Inlet – a township with beautiful beaches and the Split Point Lighthouse which was made famous in the Aussie kid’s TV show Round the Twist.
• Lorne – a charming seaside town, Lorne has a wonderful pier, lots of restaurants and cafes and of course, stunning beaches.
• Apollo Bay – gateway to the Otways and a lovely township with cafes, restaurants and watersports on offer.

Get to Apollo Bay for sundown and enjoy food at one of its restaurants. There are a variety of accommodation options available in Apollo Bay – these range from free campsites to hotels.

Where to stay in Apollo Bay

If you’re after a hostel with cheap rates and backpacker facilities, the Apollo Bay Eco YHA is a fantastic option. It has clean, airy dormitories and private rooms and well facilitated communal areas. Click here for rates and to book .

Alternatively, you could book a private cabin at Marengo Holiday Park, which sleeps up to 5 people. These self-catering cabins feature cooking facilities, sleeping arrangements, a private bathroom and balcony with BBQ. Click here for rates and to book .

If you’re travelling with a dog, some of Victoria’s best pet-friendly cabins are on the Great Ocean Road, too.

Day 3 Apollo Bay to Warrnambool:

The next morning, head to some of these great sights on the Western end of the Great Ocean Road.

• Maits Rest Rainforest Walk – just 15 minutes’ drive inland from Apollo Bay, nestled in the Otways is this tranquil rainforest walk. The walk takes 30 minutes, but there are lots of places to sit and enjoy the beautiful natural surroundings.
• Twelve Apostles – these interesting rock formations, which along with Mutton Bird Island were originally called ‘sow and piglets’ (the island was the sow and the apostles the piglets), but their name was changed to the 12 apostles for tourism purposes. There were actually only 9 when they were named so – and now, only 8 remain.
• Loch Ard Gorge – just west of the 12 Apostles, this part of Port Campbell National Park is an impressive drop between two cliffs right at the ocean’s edge; it’s a great spot to relax on the beach or take some beautiful photos.
• London Arch – another intriguing form, London Arch (formerly London Bridge) collapsed in 1990, meaning that it now can only be admired from the shore, rather than on the arch itself. If you’re around at the end of the day, you might spot some resident penguins returning to their sleeping spots for the night.
• The Grotto – (pictured above) beneath an arch, seawater gathers and creates a beautiful effect of different blues and greens dancing and glittering in the light. It’s a great, lesser well known spot near the western end of the Great Ocean Road.

Later in the day, you’ll reach Warnambool. Galleries, restaurants and a Flagstaff Maritime Village comprise some of the best things to do in this coastal town .

Depending on the time, whether you want to drive in the dark (there are kangaroos on the road at night, so be very careful if you do) and how early you want to get up the next day, you could either stay in Warrnambool, find a wikicamp on the way to The Grampians, or find accomodation in the national park itself.

Accommodation in Warrnambool

If you’re after a hotel in Warrnambool, check out the Best Western Tudor Motor Inn. With clean, aesthetically pleasing rooms with features making for a comfortable nights stay, it’s a great place to rest in Warrnambool. Check out prices and booking details here .

If you’re after your own space, Apartments 521 is the answer. These stylish flats give you your own space for the night – some which come with a spa bath and kitchenette. Check out this great accomodation by clicking here .

Day 4 & 5: Gariwerd (The Grampians)

One of the greatest Victorian road trip destinations, Gariwerd (commonly known by its anglicized name, The Grampians – but it was called Gariwerd by the indigenous population for thousands of years prior) is a spectacular national park.

Like many National Parks in Australia, Gariwerd is rich in Aboriginal heritage and natural beauty. The area is a spiritual place for Aboriginal people due to the food, water and shelter offered by the landscape, and also because of its integral part of the creation story of Bunjil the Eagle ; who created Gariwerd and then transfigured into an eagle to admire his work.

The park is home to Aboriginal rock art and a fantastic cultural centre, which is 100% Aboriginal owned and operated. Throughout the park, you can enjoy bush walks, spectacular waterfalls and astounding lookouts – it’s without a doubt one of the best spots to lose yourself in nature in Victoria.

Begin your day by checking out the Brambuk Cultural Centre ; which has an impressive amount of information about local Aboriginal culture – and is one of my favourite cultural centres in Australia. It discusses both the poetic stories of the dreamtime and other aspects of Indigenous culture, but doesn’t shy away from showcasing the horrors of what happened during the European invasion of the land – which, as a sign of respect for Aboriginal people, should be something that every traveller to Australia makes an effort to understand.

Pass your first afternoon in the national park by visiting Mackenzie Falls, a tranquil swimming spot in beautiful surroundings. There are also short walks such as the 2km ‘The Balconies’ walk and ‘The Chimney Pots’ which is 2.8km and takes around 3 hours.

Spend that night within the national park. There are hostels, guesthouses and campsites at Halls Gap (where there are also shops and restaurants, so don’t worry if you’ve forgotten anything!) or free camping spots at other locations within the park.

Accommodation in Halls Gap

If you fancy treating yourself, take a peek at The Grampians Motel and The Views Bar and Restaurant. This boutique hotel features stylish rooms with elegant bedsheets and wall hangings. There are rooms to suit all size groups; each with a private bathroom. Click here for rates and to book today .

If you are wishing to stay within nature, but don’t fancy camping independently, Mountain View Motor Inn & Holiday Lodges is a great middle ground. Frequented by emus and kangaroos, the property offers spectacular views of Gariwerd and fantastic features within the cottages and rooms; including a spa bath, flat screen TV and electric blankets. Check here for rates and to book .

Day 5: The Pinnacle Hike

Today’s the day to conquer the Pinnacle hike! If it’s a hot day, set off early to beat most of the heat while you’re climbing up. The view from the top is spectacular spreading across fields, forests and lakes; take a picnic to the top and spend some time taking it all in.

Further down the Pinnacle are Venus Baths, which are perfect for a post-hike dip. Once you reach the bottom of the pinnacle, continue your Victorian road trip by heading an hour and a half eastwards towards Ballarat.

Day 6 & 7: Ballarat & Daylesford

Famed for being the place where gold was first found in Victoria, Ballarat is a historic city with a wealth of attractions and sightseeing.

Sovereign Hill is undoubtedly its most renowned attraction – which is also widely regarded as one of the most comprehensive outdoor museums in the world – but other things to do in Ballarat include admiring old architecture, strolling around the many lakes and gardens and getting lost in various museums and galleries that tell the tale of the city that was built on gold.

Day 6: Sovereign Hill

Ballarat is most notably famous for one thing: gold. It was the site of Australia’s biggest gold rush and the Eureka Rebellion ; which is one of the most pivotal parts of Australian history.

Ballarat preserves this history extraordinarily, and one of the best things to do in the goldfields area of Victoria is to visit Sovereign Hill.

Sovereign Hill is an immersive experience of what life was like in the goldfields in the 1850s and is complete with schools, blacksmiths, authentic pubs and mine tours.

It is an all-day activity, and it’s best to get there early to make the most of all the attractions – although, if you do have some extra time on your road trip around Victoria, it’s worth noting that the tickets are valid for the following day as well.

Sovereign Hill Highlights

• Touring the mines (some come at an additional cost) to see how gold was extracted
• Learning how sweets, candles and more were made during the era
• Learning how to write in the cursive style typically taught in schools during that time (get ready to be told off – apparently I wouldn’t have got far in an 1850s school!)
• A Chinese temple – there were lots of Chinese workers on the goldfields and the area surrounding the temple tells their tale.
• Models of workers’ accomodations
• An 1850s bowling alley!

Soveriegn Hill is a fantastic way to learn about Australia’s gold rush and what life was like back then; and is a fascinating place to visit for people of all ages.

Blood on the Southern Cross

In the evening, Sovereign Hill turns into a re-enactment of the Eureka Stockade with the magnificent ‘Blood on the Southern Cross’. This sound and light show really gives you the feeling that you’re in the event, and can be combined with dinner and a stay in one of Sovereign Hill’s hotels.

Where to stay in Ballarat

Right in the heart of the city is Ballarat Station Apartments; self contained accommodation located next to the station. It’s a stones throw from the beautiful buildings of Lydiard Street, with facilities such as spa baths and free unlimited wifi; and each apartment offers fully equipped kitchens. Click here for rates and to book .

Set in one of Ballarat’s oldest buildings, built during the gold rush, Ansonia on Lydiard is a beautiful property catered for guests wanting to enjoy a night of relaxation. The guest lounge offers an open fireplace, and each room comes equipped with air conditioning, toiletries, an ipod dock and of course, an en suite bathroom. Check out the finer details here .

A short drive away from Ballarat, but perfect for budget travelers, Helen’s Luxury Hut is a firm favourite for travellers. The rooms are ornately decorated, and each features an en suite bathroom with free toiletries and a hairdryer. There is a communal kitchen and lounge area. Click here for more details and to book .

Day 7 – Ballarat Town and Daylesford

Use the morning to see some more of Ballarat’s attractions. Being one of Australia’s most historic towns, there’s old buildings to admire, as well as a wealth of culture.

Things to do in Ballarat

• See the historic buildings of Lydiard Street
• Walk Sturt Street and see the many statues
• Walk or cycle around Lake Wendouree
• Check out the Art Gallery of Ballarat
• Visit the Botanical Gardens
• A lunch or afternoon tea at Craig’s Hotel

After lunch, head to the beautiful spot of Daylesford, which is semi-en route back to Melbourne. The main street of Daylesford doesn’t take long to explore, but the charming buildings, the plentiful art shops and independent shops are well worth perusing.

Hepburn Springs is located just down the road from Daylesford, and is home to walking tracks and a spa; Hepburn Springs is known to have pure, healing waters. Conclude your Victoria road trip by enjoying the tranquillity of the springs.

If you’re in a rush to return to Melbourne, Daylesford is located just an hour and a half away away. Or, spend a night in tranquil Daylesford, enjoying the serene atmosphere and stay at one of their lovely hotels.

Accommodation in Daylesford

Exposed brick and funky furnishings make each room at Daylesford Royal Hotel a little unique, and other features like free toiletries, an electric kettle and electric blankets make it a home away from home.

It’s in a great location in Daylesford and has a bar and restaurant on site, which serves a continental breakfast every morning. Click here for rates and to book.

If you’re looking for somewhere to unwind before heading back to city life, check out Hepburn at Hepburn, which boasts self-contained accommodation in the tranquil forest of Hepburn Springs. As well as your standard facilities such as a kettle, ironing facilities and toiletries, each villa has luxury touches such as a hot tub, flat-screen TV and an iPod station. Click here for prices and to book today.

Day 8: Return to Melbourne

If you’ve overnighted in Daylesford, today’s the day to conclude your Victoria road trip by returning to Melbourne.

From here, you could either stay and enjoy the city some more, or venture north-east wards to see what the east coast has to offer!

Alternatively, you could venture into South Australia; there are a few excellent places to visit on a Melbourne to Adelaide road trip over the border.

What time of year to do the Victoria road trip

Being British, I’m no stranger to talking about the weather – but while Victoria’s climate bears some similarities to ours in the UK; it can also be much more enthralling. Victoria sometimes gets temperatures of up to 40 degrees, and many days in the summer top 30 degrees.

BUT… you never know quite what the weather will do – one day it can be 35 and scorching, the next 15 and raining. It’s part of the adventure of travelling in Victoria.

Nonetheless, I’d recommend doing the Victoria road trip in the late spring, summer or early autumn (November-April) and just dealing with what weather comes your way.

In an ideal world, you’d have a clear, but not too hot day to explore the Grampians, glorious beach weather for the Great Ocean Road and pleasant temperatures for Ballarat and Daylesford. But you can’t guarantee anything until you see the weather forecast for the next week – and even then it’ll probably change.

Things you will need for your Victoria road trip

 If you’re planning on staying in hotels, your road trip essentials are mainly your clothes, electronics and toiletries – whatever you’d take on a normal holiday. If you’re camping, you’ll need some more gear. Here’s some recommended items to consider bringing (click through to see the products and purchase)

• Lonely Planet Australia or Lonely Planet Victoria and Melbourne
• Road map of Victoria
• Camera – to get some great high quality photos on. I use the Fuji x-a3
• GoPro – to get some awesome video shots on! My Go Pro Hero 5 is AWESOME .

If you’re camping

• Sleeping Bag
• Camping pillow
• Esky or cooler bag

If you enjoyed this article, please share it or follow me on Facebook for more! Here’s some more Australian road trip itineraries that I think you’ll love…

• West Coast Australia Road Trip Itinerary
• Broome to Darwin Drive Itinerary
• Darwin to Adelaide Road Trip Itinerary
• Melbourne to Perth Road Trip Itinerary
• Adelaide to Cairns Outback Drive Itinerary
• Tasmania Road Trip Itinerary

One thought on “ A Perfect Itinerary for Australia’s Victoria Road Trip ”

Why is it one of the greats? Taking a trip along the Great Ocean Road is an Australian rite of passage. It winds 243 kilometres along some of Australia s most stunning coastline, taking in rainforest, sunburnt cliffs, shipwrecks, and, of course, the famous Twelve Apostles of which there are now eight.

Comments are closed.

• New Zealand
• The Philippines
• The Netherlands
• United Kingdom
• Inspiration
• Overland Itineraries
• Packing Lists
• Travel Tips
• Working Abroad
• Accomodation Guides
• Overland Travel
• Preserving Cultures
• Protecting Animals
• Living Abroad

10 Victoria Attractions You Shouldn’t Miss

Victoria attractions that keep me coming back.

I first fell in love with the charm of Victoria, B.C., when I visited soon after moving west to Calgary from Atlantic Canada in 2007. The Victoria Harbour is reminiscent of the Halifax Harbour (providing a taste of home for me) and the city offers beautiful scenery, kind people and endless adventures!

Over the years, Victoria has become the vacation spot of choice for my fiancé Paul and me. Our favourite time of year to visit is in May just before the height of the tourist season, and where the weather is generally more temperate than Calgary.

We typically arrive on Thursday and stay until Sunday, spending our nights at a lovely local hotel, and our days exploring the city and beyond.

The hotel is situated on the water, and is within walking distance to downtown Victoria, which features an eclectic variety of shops and restaurants. We like to head to Victoria’s historic Chinatown , in particular, Fan Tan Alley , to check out a wonderful ice cream shop and a chocolatier.

Discover more historical landmarks every Canadian needs to visit.

Water taxis are available in regular rotation from a dock next to the hotel and they are an inexpensive and enjoyable way to reach the Fisherman’s Wharf in the Inner Harbour. Keep an eye out for harbour seals that surface from time to time along the wharf.

Whale watching is an experience not to be missed while visiting the island. There are several operators to choose from along the wharf, and they offer a variety of vessels ranging from Zodiacs—brace for a cold, bumpy ride on the waves—to catamarans. You might encounter orcas, humpbacks, seals and sea lions while at sea.

Check out the best wildlife experience in every province .

Plan to take a drive along the coast of Victoria to an area called Oak Bay with beautiful seascapes, as well as to Ogden Point for breathtaking sunsets. There is a stunning viewpoint of the city from Gonzales Hill Regional Park , and you might be lucky enough to see a few deer while you’re there.

Some of the most memorable experiences that we’ve had during our visits to Victoria have been connected to the people that we have encountered during our travels.

When we landed at the airport during our last trip, while picking up a red Mustang convertible for fun, Paul overheard a man at the car rental counter saying he was in a bind as he couldn’t remember his PIN number for his credit card. Paul offered to drive the man to his bank to get it looked after, we waited for him, and then took him back to the airport. He was a great guy, very appreciative, and it was easy for us to do it. Paul’s kindness and social personality are two huge reasons why I love him so much.

We also met two lovely elderly ladies in Tim Hortons with whom we visited for ages. As it turned out, one lady was originally from an area of the Maritimes near where I lived for years—how I love “small world” stories.

On our last full day in Victoria, we drove for half an hour to Witty’s Lagoon Regional Park , a very picturesque area that we had heard about from a friend during our trip. While there, we met an older gentleman who had recently moved to the island, and Paul took his hand and helped him up on to the rocks to walk along the beach with us. We spent a couple of hours with this man, listening to his stories and enjoying his company while we all explored nature.

Explore more of Canada's greatest hikes .

I highly recommend engaging with locals and other tourists while on vacation as it truly feeds the soul. Do talk to strangers, as it is sure to enhance your Victoria experience!

If you enjoyed this roundup of Victoria attractions, don't miss our countdown of 25 unforgettable things to do on Vancouver Island .

The post 10 Victoria Attractions You Shouldn’t Miss appeared first on Reader's Digest Canada .

Live chat Online Chat now

• Site Navigation
• Page Content

• © RACQ
• Privacy Statement

How can we help you today?

Popular searches.

• Contactless payments
• Routes and timetables
• Concessions
• School student travel
• Opal Travel app

Victoria Vacation Guide

The Vacation Guide is your ultimate guide to a Victoria vacation.

Check out the Official 2024 Victoria Vacation Guide here or download a PDF here .

View or download our Visitor maps or check out our maps page .

Additional Information

• If you require any additional information or have any questions, please contact our Visitor Centre .
• Travel Agent or Tour Operator? Order brochures and promotional material .
• Meeting Planner? Click here .
• Media or journalist? Click here .

Download Victoria's Vacation Guide

Navigate our map of Greater Victoria

Victoria Visitor Centre

812 Wharf Street Victoria, B.C.

More Greater Victoria

• Travel Tips

Corporate Hub

• Corporate Destination Greater Victoria

TOP DESTINATIONS

• Kruger Park
• Okavango Delta
• Serengeti National Park
• Victoria Falls

TOP COUNTRIES

• South Africa

TRAVEL DEALS

View All Travel Deals

SOUTHERN AFRICA

East africa, indian ocean islands, top experiences.

• Beach Holidays
• Family Safaris
• Honeymoon Safaris
• Desert Safaris
• Luxury Rail Safaris
• Multi-Generational Safaris
• Positive Impact Safaris
• Photographic Safaris
• Walking Safaris

WILDLIFE SAFARI

• Big Five Safaris
• Birding Safaris
• Gorilla Trekking Safaris
• Migration Safaris
• Mobile Camping Safaris
• Horseback Safaris

FEATURED EXPERIENCES

Comfort levels, property types.

• Tented Camps
• Boutique Hotels

Featured Safari Collections

• The Safari Collection
• Elewana Collection
• Extraordinary
• Desert & Delta
• Saruni Basecamp

GET TO KNOW US

• Meet The Team
• Pricing Explained
• Traveller Reviews
• Traveller Stories
• Why Book With Us?
• HerdTracker
• Safari Cost Calculator
• South Africa In 360
• Trusted Safari Partners

What are you looking for?

• Safaris & Tours
• Destinations
• Experiences
• Accommodations
• Why book with us?

Hello traveller!

It's in Cape Town now.

We're sorry. Our safari planners aren't available now. Our office hours are 08:00 - 19:00 (GMT+2).

Call us to speak to an experienced safari planner.

Alternatively, we recommend...

Schedule a phone or Zoom call with one of our safari planners

Complete our travel enquiry form to connect with a safari planner

• Travel News Digest, 10 May: Airlines Warned to Cease Greenwashing, Free Wi-Fi at Victoria Falls

Author: Micky Baker - 10 May 2024

Part of the African Safari Collection

This week’s latest travel news includes the introduction of free public Wi-Fi on the Zambian side of Victoria Falls and allegations that 20 airlines are guilty of greenwashing. Meanwhile, conservationists are raising awareness around vulnerable species in West and Southern Africa. Read on to learn more.

Airline and Aviation News:

• Airlines warned to cease “greenwashing” . The Network of Consumer Protection Cooperation (CPC), part of the European Commission, has issued a 30-day ultimatum to 20 airlines, among them Air France, KLM, and Lufthansa, demanding rectification of any “misleading assertions” regarding sustainability claims.

Travel and Destination News:

• Free Wi-Fi now available at Victoria Falls . Tourists exploring the Livingstone side of Victoria Falls can now enjoy complimentary public Wi-Fi during their visit to this natural wonder. The Zambian Ministry of Tourism is committed to digitalising its tourism industry by the second quarter of 2024.
• Valley of Waves set to close for annual maintenance . Sun City announces the temporary closure of its renowned water park for maintenance from May 13 to June 21, 2024. This initiative aims to rejuvenate the attraction in preparation for the June school holidays.
• Africa’s Travel Indaba scheduled for 13 to 16 May in Durban . The renowned African leisure trade show hosted by South African Tourism is scheduled to take place at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli Convention Centre and Durban Exhibition Centre. This event will feature a diverse array of tourism products and services from across southern Africa, catering to the international travel trade.
• Namibia to crack down on inappropriate tourist behaviour . The Ministry of Environment, Forestry, and Tourism has strongly denounced three male tourists for posing naked on the Big Daddy dune within the Namib-Naukluft National Park. The Federation of Namibian Tourism Association has labeled this act as “disgusting”.

Conservation News:

• Bushbabies under threat from climate change . According to researchers at CU Boulder in the US, small animals such as the thick-tailed greater galago and southern lesser galago, affectionately called bushbabies in South Africa, may encounter difficulties in adapting to climate change-induced temperature rises, particularly in regions like the Waterberg in Limpopo.
• West African Vulture Conservation Action Plan (WAVCAP) launched . The project’s goal is to protect vulnerable vulture species in the area, such as the hooded vulture, which face ongoing threats to their long-term survival due to mass poisoning and hunting for bushmeat.

Discover Africa’s Travel Experts are on the pulse of travel news and tourism trends across Africa. Get in touch to start planning your Safari bucket list adventure today. 

• How to Plan a Gorilla Trekking Safari in Rwanda
• Transformative Journeys: From South Africa’s Red Desert to Antarctica’s Crystal Glaciers

Why travel with us?

Recent reviews from travellers who planned and booked their africa trips with discover africa safaris, diane du plessis was so very helpful and personable.

10 Day Kenyan Safari Review

Kristan Soboleski, United States 27 Dec 2023

Adelle understood what we wanted and organized a fantastic trip down including....

12 Day Kruger & Victoria Fall Safari Review

Greg, United States 14 Dec 2023

Megan planned a great progression of experiences for newbies to zambia..

2-Week Zambia Safari Review

Pam, United States 15 Jun 2023

Megan found us the perfect honeymoon safari experience..

Honeymoon on a Safari Review

Thomas Mitchell, United States 07 Feb 2020

I am glad to say all of us are very happy and....

African Holiday Review

Asit, India 07 Jun 2017

Spectacularly customized honeymoon experience with discover africa.

African Honeymoon Review

Stephanie, United States 24 Sep 2016

Registered Members of these Organizations

USEFUL LINKS

• Safari Tours
• Accommodation
• Why Book with us?
• Safari Cost Estimator Tool
• Wildebeest Migration
• Privacy Policy
• Website Terms of Use

POPULAR COUNTRIES

• View All Countries

POPULAR DESTINATIONS

• View All Destinations
• Cape Town Holidays
• Kruger National Park
• Etosha National Park
• Chobe National Park

TRAVEL BLOGS

• AI Trip Planning Tools Making Travel Easier
• Travel News Digest, 3 May: Flooding in the Maasai Mara, Turtles Rescued in Cape Town

OUR LOCATION

• 2nd floor, Tygervalley Chambers One, 27 Willie van Schoor Avenue, Bellville, Cape Town , 7530

Connecting Victoria

• Live updates
• Plan trip/buy tickets
• Arrivals & departures

More Information

Journey Preferences

Use this journey planner for trip information and bookings on V/Line services only. For information about other Victorian public transport options please visit  ptv.vic.gov.au

No services found

No services can be found for the date(s) you have selected. Please check your travel dates and times and try again. The V/Line journey planner searches available V/Line services. If your journey contains multiple modes of transport, you might like to use the PTV Journey Planner . If you are planning a trip well in advance, timetable information may not be available for your dates of travel. Please call 1800 800 007 for more information on travelling with V/Line.

Service notifications

We are currently experiencing an issue with the V/Line Journey Planner and are unable to look up times for your selected journey.

Please try using our Train and Coach timetables page, or the PTV Journey Planner during this time.

There was an error attempting to load platform services.

Service details Back Return to Melbourne, Southern Cross departures

Add journey, delete saved journey, latest from v/line more news.

Snow Coach to Mt Buller

The V/Line Snow Coach will run from Friday 7 June 2024 > More

Fully reserved services for Albury Line passengers

All V/Line train services on the Albury Line will be fully reserved until the end of June 2024 > More

Beacon Foundation partnership milestone

V/Line celebrates 10 years of supporting regional youth through the Beacon Foundation > More

Download the V/Line app today

View upcoming departures on your line, be alerted if services change and see detailed service info, all by using our app. > More

New virtual station tours

Our new virtual tours help you navigate station accessibility and available amenities. > More

Be in the know, before you go

Southern Cross Station platform information is available online > More

Popular links

• Privacy policy
• Terms of use
• V/Line Corporate