Exploring Victoria: A Perfect Blend of History & Charm

A short 1 Hour & 35 Mins Ferry ride through one of the most picturesque ways will take you to Victoria from Tsawwassen Bay Terminal (south of Vancouver) to Swartz Bay Terminal. The drive-on ferry passes through the Gulf Islands, offering stunning views of forest-covered isles, rugged shorelines, and marine life like seals, eagles, and even orcas.Your memorable experience starts with The Butchart Gardens, A Floral Wonderland. A National Historic Site of Canada, the Butchart Gardens is a 55-acre masterpiece of floral design that attracts visitors year-round. Originally a limestone quarry in the early 1900s, Jennie Butchart transformed it into one of the world’s most beautiful botanical gardens. Some of the kinds of gardens one can see are,
Sunken Garden, Rose Garden, Japanese Garden, Italian & Mediterranean Gardens.

Step into the history with various castles & buildings built here, which offers visitors a glimpse into the lavish Victorian lifestyle, stained glass windows, intricate woodwork, and period furnishings. Craigdarroch Castle, a Victorian-Era Mansion is a stunning 19th-century mansion built by Robert Dunsmuir, a Scottish coal baron, in the 1880s. Another historical marvel of the early 20th century era is The BC Legislative Assembly, the grand BC Parliament Buildings, built in 1898, dominate the Inner Harbour with beautiful domes, stained glass, and a statue of Queen Victoria. Now The Empress Hotel, a landmark since 1908, is famous for its classic afternoon tea experience, featuring a selection of fine teas, pastries, and finger sandwiches. One of the Leisurely ways to see Victoria is by Belgian Giant Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides, passing through Beacon Hill Park, historic neighbourhoods, and the Inner Harbour.

Hop to the next door Miniature World, A Fascinating Doll and Model Museum. Located inside the Empress Hotel, Miniature World displays tiny, intricate models of historical battles, fairy tales, and dollhouse rooms. Royal BC Museum, one of Canada’s top museums, showcases the First Nations exhibits with Indigenous artifacts. A life-sized woolly mammoth exhibit. A recreated Victoria street from the 1800s.

Victoria is the place where the Trans Canada Highway - Hwy1 originates. Mile Zero Monument celebrates the starting point of the Trans-Canada Highway. And along side is another monument - Terry Fox Statue, it honors the Canadian hero who ran across Canada for cancer research in 1980. Have a look at the Tallest Totem pole in the world at the Beacon Hill park.

Victoria houses one of the biggest & oldest Chinatown in North America. Fan Tan Alley is the Smallest Alley in the World. Fan Tan Alley, the narrowest street in North America (just 3 feet wide!). Once a gambling and opium den hotspot, today it’s filled with boutiques, cafés, and galleries.

Victoria blends history, nature, and charm beautifully. Whether you arrive by ferry or seaplane, explore stunning gardens, castles, and historic landmarks, or sip tea at The Empress, this harbor city promises an unforgettable experience.