A destination for all seasons
If you have never been to the West Coast, there is a special place waiting for you. Victoria and the surrounding area have everything you need for a beautiful getaway – ocean, parks + gardens, city life, restaurants + bistros, wildlife, museums, and more brunch places than you can fit in a weekend. For those that are more history/ architecturally inclined, we have historical houses, famous buildings and yes, Victoria is haunted!
In the spring, Victoria welcomes in the season with Cherry blossoms livening the streets, especially downtown and around the Inner Harbour, creating the perfect backdrop for sightseeing. It is the ideal time to visit the Royal BC Museum, take a guided tour of the BC Parliament Buildings, or explore the history of Canada’s oldest Chinatown. Spring also kicks off whale watching season—one of Victoria’s most popular activities!
In the summer months, the city is buzzing with festivals, food, and fun. The Inner Harbour becomes a hub of activity, where you can watch street performers, hop on a harbour ferry, or watch the harbour taxi ballet. Iconic events like the Victoria International JazzFest, Symphony Splash and Canada Day celebrations fill the city with music and fireworks. If you would like to step back in time, do not miss a high tea experience at the Empress or The Pendray House. Open-air patios, vibrant nightlife, and even an outdoor ballroom dance lesson make summer in Victoria an unforgettable experience.
Fall in Victoria is full of culture and celebration. As the pace slows, visitors can enjoy local theatre productions, art galleries, and live music around town. The Rifflandia Music Festival brings big names and new sounds, while the Victoria Film Festival screens independent films from around the world. It is also a wonderful time to take a ghost tour through Old Town or enjoy the changing seasons in Beacon Hill Park.
Winter in Victoria is a festive and cozy time of year. Though the city rarely sees snow, it embraces the holiday season with sparkle and style. The Magic of Christmas at Butchart Gardens transforms the grounds into a wonderland of lights and holiday displays. The Festival of Trees at The Bay Centre and the Parliament’s Christmas lights attract many visitors. Warm up with local shopping, craft markets, and seasonal events like the Gingerbread Showcase or a performance of The Nutcracker. With its mild climate and welcoming spirit, Victoria offers a unique getaway for every visitor.
