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Victoria (British Columbia)
From Wikitravel
North America : Canada : British Columbia : Vancouver Island : Victoria
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Contents
  Butchart Gardens
Victoria [1] is the capital of the province of British Columbia, Canada. It is located near the southern tip of Vancouver Island. It is a medium sized (approx. 350,000 in Greater Victoria, including the Saanich Peninsula) and beautiful city. Nicknamed the Garden City for Butchart Gardens and much greenspace. It is also said to lie within the world's most northern Mediterranean climate at a latitude of 48.5 North.
[edit] Get in
[edit] By boat
The main way to get to Vancouver Island and Victoria is via BC Ferries, 1-888-223-3779, [2] which operates a ferry from Tsawwassen (south of Vancouver) to Swartz Bay, a half hour drive north of Victoria. Cost is about $35CAD for a car and a little over $12CAD per person (more in peak season, and rising with fuel surcharges) each way. Payment can be made by cash or credit card, and debit cards can be used at an automatic ticket terminal for foot passengers, but not on the ferry or at the vehicle toll booths. Service runs on the odd hours between 7am and 9pm during the winter (with extra sailings at busier times) and every hour during the summer. The ferry ride is 1 hour 35 minutes. Reservations are never required, but recommended for vehicles during peak travel times, including weekends throughout the summer months. There is a $15 charge for reservations if made 7 days in advance; $17.50 if less than 7 days. Vehicles sometimes have to show up a few hours before they can actually board (there can be multiple sailing waits during peak travel times), so make sure that you check the website to see what the wait is, and make sure that you allow plenty of time to catch your sailing; as the ferry's capacity is usually limited by the amount of space on the car decks, foot passengers can usually get on if they show up 15-20 minutes before their sailing. To get to the ferry take bus number 424 from Vancouver Airport to Airport Station and then change to bus number 620. Keep $3.25 CAD in change (per person) for this.
Other ways to get here by boat:
PCL, 1-800-661-1725, [3] offers an express coach service between Vancouver (downtown, Vancouver Int'l Airport, Cruiseship Terminal) and downtown Victoria. This service runs on BC Ferries, and tickets can be purchased onboard for the trip into town. Cost from downtown Vancouver to downtown Victoria is approx. $35 one way, or approx. $10 for the trip into town.
BC Transit, +1-250 382-6161, [4] offers bus service from the ferry terminal to downtown Victoria, with many stops in between. This route takes quite some time and is often very full.
Victoria Clipper, 1-800-888-2535, [5] operates a modern ultra-fast catamaran ferry from downtown Seattle. Fares $US66-80 less for seniors, half price for children. Service is once a day in the winter and up to 3 times a day in the summer. The sailing time is 2.5 hours.
Victoria Express, +1-250 361-9144, [6] operates a passenger ferry service from Port Angeles, Washington, about 20 miles south of Victoria on the Olympic Peninsula. Fares are $US 13.00 per passenger. Service runs from spring to fall only. Travelling time is approximately one hour.
MV Coho, +1-250 386-2202, [7] is a passenger and vehicle ferry running from Port Angeles, Washington across the Strait of Juan de Fuca. Crossing time is 95 minutes, and fares are $US40.00 for car and driver and $10.50 per passenger ($5.25 for children under 11). Service runs all year except for an annual refit, generally while the Victoria Express is in service. In the winter, this ferry runs 2 sailings a day and in the summer up to 4 sailings a day are scheduled.
Washington State Ferries, +1-206 464-6400, [8] operates a passenger vehicle ferry between Anacortes and Sidney (about half an hour from Victoria) through the San Juan Islands.
Victoria-San Juan cruises, 355 Harris Ave #104, ☎ +1-(360) 738-8099 (tours@whales.com), [9]. daily May 10th - September 28th, Bellingham-Victoria 9:00AM - 12:00PM, Victoria-Bellingham 5:00PM - 8:00PM. Summer daily sailing between Bellingham, WA and Victoria, BC, timed to be a plausible day trip or mini-cruise through the San Juans. Dinner included in the Victoria-Bellingham leg in the evening. Bellingham Terminal is the Alaska Ferry Terminal / Bellingham Cruise Terminal at 355 Harris Avenue #104, Bellingham, WA 98225. The Victoria Terminal is Belleville Terminal at 254 Belleville Street (Inner Harbour). Toll-free phone +1-800-443-4552. USD $129 r/t.
[edit] By recreational boat
Victoria is a popular destination for boaters from the U.S.A. as well as the Vancouver area. The trip is a long one, and can be rough. The leg across the Strait of San Juan de Fuca from Puget Sound is over 30 miles, and has frequent gales and small craft warnings.
Because of the trip, the Greater Victoria Harbour Authority has a "no one turned away policy".
Victoria Harbour Authority [10]
Coast Victoria Harbourside Hotel and Marina [12]
Oak Bay Marina While technically not part of Victoria, this incorporated municipality is on the sea to the east. It is a delightful location and an easy bus/taxi/bicycle ride to downtown Victoria.
[edit] By plane
Victoria International Airport (IATA: YYJ) is located 30 minutes north of Victoria (off the Pat Bay Highway, on the way to the ferry terminal). Multiple flights per hour to and from Vancouver. Also from Seattle by Horizon Air and with lesser frequency direct from Calgary (Air Canada and WestJet), Edmonton(Air Canada and WestJet), and Toronto. Public transit from Victoria International to the city isn't that great, but the AKAL Airport Shuttle Bus picks you up from the airport and takes you many downtown hotels (tel 1-877-386-2525, www.VictoriaAirportShuttle.com, 45 minutes one-way, adults $15).
You can also get into Victoria quickly and easily from Vancouver by either helicopter or floatplane. Helicopters into the city operate from Vancouver Harbour or Vancouver International Airport (YVR) by Helijet with prices from $119 each way, this will take you into the center of Victoria. Floatplanes land in Victoria Inner Harbour (YWH), just meters from the Fairmont Empress Hotel and the BC Parliament buildings. Canadian floatplane operators include West Coast Air and Harbour Air, both of which operate from Vancouver Harbour, with prices at $99-114 each way. There is a new floatplane terminal in operation just outside the Vancouver International Airport (YVR) with a shuttle service operated by Harbour Air. Harbour Air has also introduced seasonal amphibious service from Langley Municipal Airport to Victoria Inner Harbour Daily scheduled floatplane service to the Inner Harbour is also available year round from downtown Seattle's Lake Union on Kenmore Air. Fares, which include complimentary shuttle transfers to/from Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) range from $108 to $169 each way. Kenmore Air also provides year-round service to the Pat Bay Seaplane Base, just west of Victoria International Airport (YYJ).
[edit] Get Around
 Map of Greater Victoria
Walking is an easy, free, and fun way to explore the entire downtown area. Make your way from hotel to museum to shops; stop for coffee; stroll along the harborside; grab a pint and some fish-n-chips - take it in!
Buses run by BC Transit, 382-6161 (automated fare information line), form the mainstay of Victoria's public transit network. A `fare zone boundary' divides the service area into two zones: Victoria's core urban area in one zone, and the outlying, more suburban areas in the other. Passengers crossing the boundary must pay a two-zone fare. Regular fares are $2.00 for one zone or $2.75 for two zones; those younger than 18 or older than 65 pay $1.25 or $2.00 for one or two zones, respectively. Bus tickets can be purchased in books of ten, and give a slight discount. Day passes are also available; they cost $6.00 regularly or $4.00 for youth or seniors. They are good for all zones. Victoria, along with Kelowna is one of only two cities in North America which use Double Decker buses in their city transit systems.
Biking Victoria is the most bike-friendly city in Canada. That may have something to do with the very mild winters. There are many places to rent bikes. One place is CycleBCRentals, located at 747 Douglas St. behind the Empress Hotel & in the summer at 950 Wharf St (1-866-380-2453). Bike rentals start at $6 and they also hire scooters and motorbikes here.
 Detail of central Victoria
Emily Carr House, 207 Government Street, +1 250 383-5843, [13]. Fee $5, students $3.50, families $15. Emily Carr is one of Canada's greatest and most loved artists. Her house is within walking distance of the Inner Harbour and Beacon Hill Park.
Inner Harbour In the summertime the Inner Harbour is full of artists, buskers and other entertainers. The music performers are not permitted to stay in one place for very long, so the entertainment is constantly changing. It still may seem too long with some of the Bagpipers. Many find it fascinating to watch the float planes taking off and landing also. In the springtime, the inner harbour is filled up with many beautiful flowers.
Undersea Gardens, 490 Belleville St (on the inner harbour, across from the Legislature), +1 250 382-5717, [14].
Royal London Wax Museum, 470 Belleville St, (on the inner harbor, across from the The Legislature), +1 250 388-4461, [15].
Chinatown, Fisgard St. between Store St. and Government St. The street is decorated with Chinese ornaments including The Gates of Harmonious Interest. There are some great Chinese restaurants, Chinese fruit and vegetable stores, bubble tea and coffee shops and Canada's smallest 'road', Fan Tan Alley!
Beacon Hill Park, bounded by Dallas Rd on the south, and Douglas St. on the west. The south end is on the waterfront, with walking path and a view of the Olympic Mountains across the straight.
Butchart Gardens, 800 Benvenuto Ave. in Brentwood Bay (at the westernmost point of Keating X Rd, 866-652-4422, [16]. A large garden planted in what was formerly a limestone quarry. Quite remarkable. During the summer they have fireworks set to music and during winter evenings, the gardens are lit up and include displays illustrating the twelve days of Christmas. Public bus and shuttle buses can take you there.
Legislative Buildings, at the Inner Harbour, +1 250 387-3046, [17]. At night it is lit up with 13,000 lights. Free public tours are excellent.
Miniature World, 649 Humboldt St. (at the back of the Empress Hotel), +1 250 385-9731, [18]. An extensive display of miniature landscapes, cities etc., some rather bizarre or at comically mismatched scales. Includes the world's smallest working saw mill at a scale of 1:12.
Royal BC Museum, 675 Bellville St. (between the Legislature and the Empress hotel, near the Inner Harbour), +1 250 356-7226, [19]. Open seven days a week 9am-5pm. This is one of two museums in Canada holding the 'Royal' designation, it has amazing exhibits. There are three permanent galleries: Modern History, First Peoples and Natural History. Prices fluctuate depending on current exhibits.
Craigdarroch Castle Historical Museum, 1050 Joan Crescent (in the Rockland area), +1 250 592-5323, [20]. This castle was built in 1890 by a wealthy and powerful Scottish family who at that time owned a quarter of Vancouver Island. Great architecture. About 25 minutes' walk from the downtown core, or else take buses 11 or 14 up Fort St.
IMAX Theatre, 675 Bellville St. (part of the Royal BC Museum), +1 250 953-4629, [21]. A variety of shows on the IMAX screen. $9.75 adult admission, $7.50 for seniors, students and youth, $5.00 for children. Tickets are not included with regular museum admission but discounted combo tickets are available.
Victoria Bug Zoo, 631 Courtney Street, +1 250 384-2847, [22]. Open daily except Christmas and New Years, 10AM-6PM (extended summer hours). Fee $8 (several discounts). Looking at bugs while on holidays doesn't sound like it'd be appealing, but this is a fantastic little place filled with very knowledgeable and friendly guides, and when else would you get the chance to hold so many crazy creatures?
 Victoria's Inner Harbour Area
Harbour tours Small harbour ferries (about six passengers) provide transport around and a view of the Selkirk Waterway and Inner Harbour.
Galloping Goose Trail, [23]. A few places rent bikes and this is a great afternoon or day trip. The trail runs on a decomissioned rail bed from downtown to Sooke.
Whale Watching For those who are a bit more adventurous there are several Whale Watching companies which operate from the inner harbour. Some are located underneath the Tourist Information centre. The companies offer up to three hour trips and have a good success rate at finding one of the three resident pods of Orcas. One such company is Prince of Whales [24], +1 250 383-4884. Prices from $55 per person. Another good one is Ocean Explorations [25], +1 250 383-6722. Another good one that guarantees whale sightings is Eagle Wing Tours Whale Watching [26], +1 800 708-9488.
Nature! The surrounding Victoria area is also an amazing place to explore if you're more inclined towards natural spots. From the Inner Harbour you can walk in either direction along the water to the very popular local Dallas Road, or you can cross "The Blue Bridge" and end up on the Westsong Walkway into Esquimalt. Both have beautiful views of the Inner Harbour and even Port Angeles across the water. If you're feeling more energetic check out some of the attractive parks in Victoria's neighbouring towns including Oak Bay, Saanich, Langford, Sooke and Sidney.
Wine tasting There are five wineries within a 45-minute drive of Victoria, on the Saanich Peninsula, including some estate wineries. These wineries have a wide range of wines including those made from their own grapes, grapes grown elsewhere and fruit wines. Crush Wine Tours [27], +1 250 888-5748, offers a three-hour tour visiting three of the wineries, guided by a friendly and well informed guide.
OpenStreetMap - Mapping Victoria - From the 22nd - 24th September, OpenStreetMap volunteers will be meeting in Victoria with the aim of mapping as many of the city's roads and footpaths as possible. You can join in the fun. Almost anyone can help OpenStreetMap to create a free map of the world - no prior experience is needed - its fun, its rewarding and its free. See the OSM wiki page for more details.
Victoria is full of little shops tucked away in every nook and cranny in the centre. Souvenir shops are all around the Inner Harbour. Although people generally think Victoria is a tourist destination only, there are more than just tourist shops.
Americans so inclined may want to take the opportunity to pick up a Cuban Cigar or two. Just don't expect to be able to bring any back with you through Customs.
Government Street, from the Inner Harbour up to Chinatown, is the biggest (and rather touristy) shopping drag. The best way to go is just to wander the streets but make sure you check out some little gems like Market Square, at the bottom of Johnson St. In the summertime there's live music here.
Fort Street is otherwise known as Antique Row. From Blanshard to Cook Streets, Fort Street is lined with small antique shops and auction houses.
The Inner Harbour has artisans selling their crafts during the summer (and part of spring and fall as well sometimes), and Bastion Square (off of Government Street) often has a summer craft market as well.
Victoria has the second-highest number of restaurants per capita of all North American cities! The waterfront tourist area is home to a wide variety of restaurants and eateries, including several English-style pubs. Try the fish and chips or shepherds pie for a taste of England in Canada. For a more eclectic Victoria experience, check out the classy restaurants that surround Chinatown, offering interesting west-coast fusion and asian dishes.
Bent Mast Pub and Restaurant, 512 Simcoe St. in James Bay, +1 250 383-6000. A great place to drink, eat, make friends, and have fun. Talk to Jerry, the owner, for a bit of the history of this old Victorian house and invite your friends!
Irish Times, 1200 Government St, +1 250 383-7775, [28]. Wonderful pub meals, good beer, and lots of seating.
Spinnakers Brewpub, 308 Catherine St, +1 250 386-2739, [29] Within walking distance of downtown. A great place to go for a drink or a meal. Pub: 7 days a week, 11AM-11PM. Restaurant: 7AM-10:30PM. There is a restaurant on the main floor, and a brewpub upstairs. Great atmosphere and a nice view of the inner harbour, especially in the evening. A variety of in-house brews, as well as whatever else you want to drink.
Swan's Restaurant and Hotel, +1 250 361-3310, [30] Swan's brews their own beer and feature live music every night of the week.
[edit] North American Cuisine
Blue Crab Bar & Grill, 146 Kingston St, in The Coast Harbourside Hotel & Marina, 480-1999 [31] Beautiful harbor-view dining with elegant atmosphere.
Chandlers Seafood House, 1250 Wharf St., +1 250 385-3474. A lovely seafood restaurant located in downtown Victoria. Voted best local seafood restaurant many times. Intimate food at reasonable prices. Great selection for all courses. Reservations recommended.
Fairfield Fish and Chips, 1277 Fairfield Road, +1 250 380-6880,[32]. They are closed Sunday and Monday and most holidays. Get your chips to go and take them 4 blocks down to the waterfront and enjoy the view of Juan De Fuca Strait. They do an especially light and fluffy batter.
Ferris' Oyster Bar & Grill, 536 Yates St, +1 250 360-1824.[33]. A large menu and classy atmosphere, perfect for first dates or nights out with friends. Even the burgers are good.
John's Place, 723 Pandora Ave, 1-250-389-0711, [34]. A local favourite with some of the best staff in town and excellent food at decent prices. Brunch for two is about $27.50 including tax and tip. The Eggs Benedict with hollandaise sauce is to die for (10 varieties, $8.95-10.95)! Great place for Saturday or Sunday brunch. Comfortable, casual family & friends atmosphere. Open 364 days/year, M-Th 7AM-9PM, F 7AM-10PM, Sa 8AM-10PM, Su 8AM-9PM.
Shine Cafe, 1458 Fort St. A very popular brunch spot located at Oak Bay Corners (Fort and Pandora), outside of downtown. A particularly interesting dish they make is Scottish breakfast with black pudding and potato scones. Expect a long wait after 11am on weekends.
[edit] European Cuisine
Brasserie L'ecole, 1715 Government St, +1 250 475-6260. Open Tuesday through Saturday 5:30pm-11PM. A highly-acclaimed fine dining destination with the atmosphere of a classy but comfy Parisian restaurant. Probably the best food in Victoria.
Cafe Brio Restaurant 944 Fort St, Victoria - Cafe Brio is open seven nights a week for dinner from 5:30PM - Advance reservations are highly recommended; call us at +1 250 383-0009 or Toll-Free at 1-866-270-5461 [35] "Cafe Brio, the hottest restaurant in Victoria, is a destination for serious diners from all over the U.S. and Canada." writes Northwest Palate Magazine.
Il Terrazzo Ristorante, 555 Johnson St, Off Waddington Alley.[36] Great Italian in a charming patio atmosphere.
Oh Gelato! Italian Ice Cream, 1013 Government Street. 66 flavours of beautifully-presented gelatos, garnished with bits of fruit or chocolate to illustrate their flavour, at $5.25 for a two-scoop cup. Also snacks and Canadian food souvenirs. Worth a stop to photograph the gelato.
Pagliaccis, 1011 Broad St, +1 250 386-1662. One of the most popular Italian restaurants in town. Intimate settings and addictively scrumptious endless free bread. Always a good experience.
Rathskeller Schnitzel House, A taste of Bavaria, best German food and beer in town; authentic interior and atmosphere! Live accordion music most nights. [37]
[edit] West Coast Fusion
Rebar Modern Food, 50 Bastion Square, +1 250 361-9223. M-W 8:30AM-9:00PM, Th-Sa 8:30AM-10:00PM, Su 8:30AM-3:30PM (brunch). A vegetarian restaurant with a diverse modern menu, and a nice location. Lunch for under $10 per person, dinner for under $15.
The Mint, 1414 Douglas Street, between Pandora and Johnson, 386-6468 & 361-9223. Nepalese and Tibetan cuisine in a swanky atmosphere, DJs included. A popular spot for students.
The Noodle Box, 626 Fisgard St., +1 250 360-1312, and 818 Douglas St., +1 250 384-1314, [38]. Hours M-Sa 11AM-9PM, Su noon-8PM. Another very popular spot for locals. Serves southeast Asian food fresh and in a takeaway box. Wait times vary depending on the time of day (for example, 20-25 minutes during lunch hour rush), but the meal is worth it. Minimize the wait by phoning in your order in advance. The boxes look deceptively small, but they make a very filling meal.
Mole, 554 Pandora, between Government and Wharf, +1 250 385-6653. A trendy (yet affordable!) new restaurant serving fusion breakfast, lunches and dinners.
[edit] Other cuisine
Afternoon Tea, at the Empress Hotel (see under "Lodging"). This is quintessentially Victoria or unbearably kitsch, depending on your taste. Afternoon Tea, served from 12 noon on, includes fine teas, fruit with cream, and elegant petite sandwiches. Altogether it is a full meal. Price changes with the season, from $48 per person in summer to $38 in the winter. West Coast Tea, served Thursday-Saturday from 7:00 pm on during the summer only, builds on the concept but is designed for cruise ship visitors. $42 per person. Reservations required, and should be made 1-2 weeks in advance at (250) 389-2727. Dress-code is "smart casual": dresses and ties not required, but avoid tank tops and flip-flops. See also "Afternoon Tea" at Empress Hotel web site.
Green Cuisine, #5-560 Johnson St., in the Market Square centre, tel +1 250 385-1809, [39]. Vegetarian Restaurant offers a buffet of 100% vegan dishes. $1.75 per 100g, with fruit drinks and soy milk shakes about $4 on top of that. A generous meal for two was under $30. Open 10-20h daily in the summer, Mon-Sat 10-20h and Sun 10-17h in the winter.
Because Victoria’s downtown is fairly small, most of the nightlife is located within walking distance. Cabs aren’t too expensive and there isn’t too far to go to get from point A to B. Victoria's police force has an aggressive crackdown on drinking and driving, so take a cab, all you have to do is stumble to Douglas and eventually you will grab one before someone else. But if it’s a “special” night like Halloween or New Year’s Eve, expect a bit of a wait. Compared to clubs in larger cities, cover in Victoria is cheap, ranging from $3 to $10. Fridays and Saturdays: expect to pay $7 to get in the door and another $2 to check your coat. Compared to larger cities, Victoria's liquor is pretty pricey. There is a law in Victoria that requires all drinks to cost $3 at minimum for a serving of alcohol. Expect to pay at least $3 but most likely more for each drink. Beers and shots are about $5. Most bars have cash machines inside, and accept only cash as payment.
Lucky Bar 517 Yates. A bit small, but not nearly as costly as others. Wednesday night is Mod Night so dress in your hipster finest. Thursday night's "Hang The DJ" is probably the most tasteful music in the city, and the music-snob crowd reflects that. The crowd is a mix of straight and queer. Monday night is 90210 so dress to impress and get down there early.
Red Jacket View St. (at Blanchard). The popularity of this bar changes depending on the day and the month – Thursday might be busy one month, dead the next – but this is generally a posh crowd of those looking to see and be seen. The crowd does tend to be a bit more ethnically diverse. The bar itself is large (when both sides are open) and features a bright fish tank that is very cool when you’re drunk. When this club is popular, usually Thursdays, expect to wait in line unless you come early or know the right people.
For a slightly older crowd, head to Upstairs Cabaret (in Bastion square). Above the popular pub Darcy’s, the place gets busy on Saturday after the pub crowd are kicked out at 1am when the (awesome) rock cover band finishes. Upstairs is a good size and plays a wide variety of music. The staff often ignores all patrons but their friends but with a bit of persistence you’ll get a drink.
The younger crowd tends to head to Plan B. Its a younger crowd so if you are into that head here for an awesome time. They play a good mix of top 40 and house music. Lots of parties are thrown here and there is a large UVIC crowd who goes here on weekends. How can you go wrong with stripper poles and cages?
One of the most popular spots WAS Legends (on Douglas). As of August 17th 2007 they are undergoing renovations and will likely reopen with a new name (probably Element) and new look.
For rock and 80s fans, go to Evolution at 502 Discovery. They play classic and modern rock and that’s it. 80’s night on Wednesday’s is especially popular and the drinks tend to be a bit cheaper. The crowd is really mixed and rowdy.
If you want a club that's open six nights a week and has a different theme every night then stop at The Boom Boom Room. This place is Victoria's only hip hop nightclub but does play to requests. On your way, see if you can score free passes from somebody handing them out usually on the corner of Government and Yates.
A slightly more pretentious version of Lucky Bar is Hugo’s Bar on Courtney St. Get gussied up and fork over your cash because this place is expensive. The staff won’t be friendly unless you tip well and tip often. And don’t bother requesting music – the DJ thinks he knows best. The crowd is very upper-middle class and a bit older. Pretend you're a business person and hit on some secretary.
Victoria's gay crowd, although usually more comfortable at Lucky or Hush, will occasionally show their support and hang out at Prism the “official” gay bar on Johnson St. The music is pumping and special drag shows or karaoke contests are often. Straight people are welcome…sort of…if they are willing to have a little fun anyway. This place is also home to the only good Karaoke night in tow
Another “sort-of” gay bar is Hush. The music is almost purely pounding trance and other dance music genres and anyone is welcome. The bar is fairly small but you can find it on Government St. This is basically where everybody went after the City of Victoria completely destroyed the awesome rave scene that used to happen here.
[edit] Budget
The Hotel Douglas, 1450 Douglas St. (corner of Pandora & Douglas), +1 250 383-4157 or +1 800 332-9981, [40] - a cute little budget hotel that worked out cheaper than the backpacker/hostel places for a couple willing to share a bed; double room with toilet & sink, but shared shower: $45 + taxes
Ocean Island Backpacker's Inn, 791 Pandora Ave. (corner of Pandora & Blanshard), +1 250 385-1788 or 1 888 888-4180, get-it@oceanisland.com, [41]. Open 24/7. Dorms $20-$26/night; Singles $27-$69/night or $156-$409/week; doubles: $38-$71.50/night or $228-$409/week. There are also monthly rates if you're sticking around for a while. Accommodations are comfortable and this place definitely has character (and an all-ages licensed lounge with lots of live bands and open mic). Lots of rooms info and online booking on their website. They also have summer daytrips and a guide to Victoria & BC with backpackers in mind.
Travellers' Inn, 1-888-872-8355, [42] A chain of nine budget hotels in the Victoria area. The one closest to the inner harbour is Travellers' Inn - Downtown at 1850 Douglas St. $50-100.
UVic Housing, University of Victoria, +1 250 721-8395, [43] Accommodation is available at Craigdarroch House for $60 (including cafeteria breakfast). Most suitable for those visiting the University. In the summer the University dorm rooms are available for $44-55 , or a 4 bedroom unit in the cluster housing for $160.
The Turtle Refuge, 1608 Quadra St, Phone: +1 250 386-4471, Fax: +1 250 386-4471, Email: info@turtlerefuge.com.[44] Open 24/7, rates run from $14 for a dorm bed a night to $35 singles. Free coffee every morning, linens are provided, free wireless internet, Laundry facilities, etc. Pretty standard, located in a very small house just outside of downtown (about a five minute walk). If you are looking for a cheap and fun place to crash, this is about as good as you can get.
HI-Victoria Hostel, 516 Yates Street, +1 250 385-4511, toll-free +1 888 883-0099, [45]. Beds start at $19 per night.
Urban illegal camping. There is a large homeless population in Victoria, so it is not surprising to see people sleeping in public parks. Although safety is a concern, it is doable.
[edit] Mid-range
The Embassy Inn, 520 Menzies St. (Next to the Parliament Buildings), +1 250 382-8161 or +1 800 268-8161, [46] - Victoria's most affordable inner harbour hotel, offering a wide variety of rooms and suites available at your request. Free parking and wireless internet included in your booking. Rates starting at just $89.00 plus taxes.
Abbeylee Guesthouse, 255 Government St., ☎ +1-888-831-5660 (US & Canada toll-free) (info@abbeylee.com, fax: ''+1 250'' 389-2857), [47]. A quiet elegant 1892 Victorian gingerbread masterpiece in historical James Bay, 3 doors away from the Emily Carr house. Antiques and modern comforts, gourmet breakfasts and within minutes walking to from the Inner Harbour, US Ferries, the ocean, Beacon Hill park and all downtown attractions. Canada Select 4 stars. Alternate tel +1-250-370-1469. skype: abbeyleeryan. $79-$199/night.
The Polo Pacific suite, 415 Quebec St, ☎ +1-888-831-5660 (US & Canada toll-free) (info@abbeylee.com, fax: ''+1 250'' 389-2857), [48]. A 2BR, 2-bath condo operated by Abbeylee Guesthouse, but at a separate location just off the inner harbour. Available for monthly rental. Alternate tel +1 250 370-1469. $2700/month.
Dashwood Manor Bed and Breakfast, 1 Cook Street, 1-800-667-5517, (Email: stay@dashwoodmanor.com), [49] Dashwood Manor is Victoria’s only seaside heritage B&B in walking distance to downtown. Beside historic Beacon Hill Park, a few, short blocks from the eclectic Cook Street Village and within easy walking distance to Victoria’s Inner Harbour. Eleven sparkling ocean view guest rooms, some with fireplaces and double Jacuzzis. Full breakfast. Free off-street parking. The style and elegance of an old-world and gracious home. Monthly and weekly rates available. Canada Select 4 Star
Gazebo Bed and Breakfast, 5460 Old West Saanich Road, 1-877-211-2288. ("email=stay@gazebo-victoria.com")[50] Country manor house near the Butchart Gardens. Quiet central location with secluded cottage and elegant rooms. Canada Select 5 Stars at 4 Star prices. $145-210.
Victoria Harborwalk Bed & Breakfast Suite, 427 Heather St, +1 250 294-9985.[51] A popular private character suite in James Bay just behind the Legislative Buildings and the Royal BC Museum. A terrific location. $108-148.
Ocean Island Suites, 143 Government St., +1 250 385-1788, or 1-888-888-4180, get-it@oceanisland.com.[52] Individually designed and decorated bright character suites at fantastic daily/weekly/monthly rates. In quiet and historic James Bay, one block from Beacon Hill Park, three blocks from ocean bluffs and beaches and five blocks from downtown. Fully-equipped kitchens, queen sized beds, spacious garden/deck, private entrance, TV/DVD, laundry facilities, free parking, free wireless internet. For prices/photos/details, see website or call. Starts at $90/night.
Queen Victoria Hotel, 655 Douglas. Right on the edge of Downtown Victoria and James Bay. [53] An ideal location. $100-200.
Ramada Huntingdon Hotel & Suites, 330 Quebec St, 1-800-663-7557.[54] Good location on the south side of the Inner Harbour. Slightly faded rooms with British character. $100-250.
Dalton Hotel and Suites in Victoria, BC, 759 Yates Street, +1 250 384-4136.[55] A Victoria, British Columbia hotel offering the best in elegant comfort. The management and staff of the Dalton are committed to ensuring your visit to Victoria is relaxing, satisfying and memorable. $120-199.
Howard Johnson Hotel & Suites, 4670 Elk Lake Drive, +1 250 704-4656.[56] Clean, comfortable rooms. Easy access to lots of Victoria attractions $109-248.
[edit] Splurge
Victoria Marriott Inner Harbour, 728 Humboldt Street, +1 250 480-3800.[57] A newer building located half a block away from Victoria's tourism heart. $150-$500.
Laurel Point Inn, 680 Montreal St. (short walk from Inner Harbour past the Coho Terminal), +1 250 386-8721, [58] A nice hotel with a subtle oriental feel to it. All rooms have a view over the harbour area. Free taxi vouchers sufficient to get you to The Bay shopping centre are a nice touch. $250-450.
The Empress Hotel, 721 Government St. (on the inner harbour, near the Legislature & Royal BC Museum), +1 250 384-8111, theempress@fairmont.com, [59] Victoria's grand old hotel and most famous luxury hotel, designed in the same Edwardian-style as many former Canadian Pacific Hotels such as Chateau Frontenac in Quebec City. $350-500.
Delta Victoria Ocean Pointe, 45 Songhees Rd. (ideally located in the heart of the city, on the waterfront of Victoria's charming Inner Harbor.), +1 800 667-4677, [60] A nice hotel, with charming staff and a slightly modern feel to it. Beautiful harbor views and lovely harbor-side dining. $130-$350 (CD).
There are many different schools in Victoria including ESL & Language schools, films school, art school, private colleges and so on.
The biggest school is the publicly funded University of Victoria. [61] Located on a hill within a short walk from the ocean, UVic prides itself on its beautiful campus with tree-lined paths, large gardens, lush green grass and a large fountain.
The school is on the smaller side, with the whole campus located inside a circular road known as Ring Road. You can walk from one end of campus to the other in 15 minutes – and that is if you walk slowly. UVic is home to many international students and just completed several new residence buildings for those who wish to live on campus. Many different programs are offered, but the school is known for its Earth Science, environmental law and fine arts departments, among others. The campus community is very earth friendly – as is the city of Victoria itself – and is a good place to catch cheap theatre, free lectures and small music, art or film festivals.
[edit] Contact
Area code for Victoria, as with all of British Columbia outside Vancouver, is 250.
[edit] Stay Safe
Due to its mild climate many homeless people come to Victoria to escape the cold, deadly winters elsewhere. There is also a drug presence among young people living on the streets. This means that panhandling can be a problem. Most panhandlers are polite but there are some that are aggressive despite laws against this behaviour. However there is a strong police presence on downtown streets during the summer, especially on weekends at night. This problem is generally confined to the tourist area bounded by Blanshard Street.
Because all the bars and clubs are very close together, many drunken people spill into the streets at 2 AM on Thursday, Friday and Saturday night and occasionally there is a scuffle. The police usually break things up before they get out of hand but if you’re out and about at this time (or have your downtown hotel room window open) be prepared to deal with all that drunken idiots have to offer such as public urination, shouting and the occasional rude comment.
[edit] Get out
Victoria is only a starting place to explore Vancouver Island by bus, car or bike.
Five hours by car to the west, Tofino is famous for its surfing and nature. The small town of Comox and its neighbour Courtney are cozy and full of beautiful beaches. Head to Shawinigan Lake for a really small town and hit the lake in a canoe or the trails by foot. Nearby Hornby, Denman and Salt Spring Island each have a distinct vibe and are worth the visit just to check out something a little different. There is a lot of hiking, biking and camping. And of course for the more city-loving folk ferries from Victoria take you to bustling Vancouver or Seattle.
Hitchhiking is relatively common on Vancouver Island and may be useful for getting around.
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