Victoria, Canada
Description
Victoria exudes old-world charm and fragrant, colorful flowers are everywhere. Founded in 1843 by James Douglas of the Hudson's Bay Company, the city was first known as Fort Victoria. By 1848, Vancouver Island was a British colony and Victoria was its capital.
In 1858, Victoria was a tent city and the base for some 25,000 prospectors on their way to the Frasier River gold fields. When Vancouver Island was incorporated with mainland British Columbia in 1868, Victoria became the capital of the entire province.
Although it's a port city, Victoria is not as industrially oriented as Vancouver. The harbors, especially Inner Harbour, are dotted with pleasure craft, ferries and floatplanes. The city is renowned for its beautiful gardens, charming houses and very British feel.
Points of Interest
- Butchart Gardens
- Legislative Buildings
- Fairmont Empress Hotel
- Beacon Hill Park
- Victoria Butterfly Gardens
- Craigdarroch Castle
- Local Flavors
- Whale Watching
More about Victoria, Canada Points of Interest
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Butchart Gardens -
Victoria's most popular attraction, this 55-acre floral wonderland features themed botanical gardens, meandering pathways, refreshing fountains, exquisite foliage, and magnificent bronze statues.
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Legislative Buildings -
Home to the Legislative Assembly of British Columbia, these magnificent buildings, constructed in 1893, honor Queen Victoria's Diamond Jubilee. In the evening, they are illuminated by 3,000 light bulbs.
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Fairmont Empress Hotel -
Situated over the Inner Harbour, this National Historic Site of Canada is one of Victoria's oldest and most famous hotels and has become an iconic symbol for the city itself.
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Beacon Hill Park -
This lush, 62-acre oasis is the crowning jewel in Victoria's park system. A haven for wildlife, birds, and outdoor enthusiasts, the grounds are a combination of landscaped and natural beauty.
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Victoria Butterfly Gardens -
This 12,000-square-foot enclosure is a tropical paradise filled with a multitude of free-flying butterflies. Discover life in this lush habitat, home to rare birds, koi ponds, and breathtaking jungle foliage.
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Craigdarroch Castle -
A Canadian National Historic Site, this Victorian-era castle was built between 1887-1890. Explore this restored estate, marvel at the antiques and furnishings, and stroll the opulent grounds.
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Local Flavors -
Victoria is home to a thriving culinary scene of farms, restaurants, tea houses, pubs and craft beverage makers. Samples unique creations from the area's wineries, breweries, distilleries, cidermakers and enjoy treats with fresh local ingredients.
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Whale Watching -
See killer whales in their natural habitat! During a thrilling harbor cruise, you'll be on the look out for these majestic creatures, as well as be able to spot seals, sea lions and porpoises.
Craigdarroch Castle, Mt. Tolmie & City Highlights
Shopping Opportunities, Moderate Activity
From $59.95
Easy Victoria: City Highlights Tour
Easy Activity
From $54.95
Easy Victoria: City Lights Highlights
Easy Activity
From $99.95
Victoria by Horse-Drawn Trolley
Easy Activity
From $79.95
O Canada Victoria Highlights
Easy Activity, Includes snack
From $49.95
O Canada: Night Lights City Highlights
Easy Activity, Includes snack
From $109.95
Victoria Highlights & the Royal BC Museum
Shopping Opportunities, Moderate Activity
From $94.95
Local Connections: Center of the Universe Observatory & City Highlights Developed by Astronomer
Moderate Activity
From $144.95
High Tea at Pendray Mansion & City Highlights
Easy Activity, Includes meal
From $89.95
High Tea at Pendray Mansion & City Night Lights
Easy Activity, Includes meal
From $179.95
Enchanting Butchart Gardens
Shopping Opportunities, Easy Activity
From $129.95
Enchanting Butchart Gardens (Wheelchair Accessible)
From $129.95
Fireworks at Butchart Gardens
Shopping Opportunities, Easy Activity
From $154.95
Fireworks at Butchart Gardens (Wheelchair Accessible)
From $154.95
Best of Victoria: Butchart & Butterfly Gardens
Shopping Opportunities, Easy Activity
From $109.95
Best of Victoria: Butchart & Butterfly Gardens (Wheelchair Accessible)
From $59.95
English Tea at Butchart Gardens
Shopping Opportunities, Easy Activity, Includes snack
From $69.95
English Tea at Butchart Gardens (Wheelchair Accessible)
From $99.95
Local Connections: Royal Tea at Abkhazi Garden & City Highlights Created by Historian
Moderate Activity, Includes meal
From $89.95
Vancouver Island Wineries & Cider Farm
Moderate Activity
From $159.95
Aviation Museum & Aquarium Exploration - a Discovery Exclusive
Moderate Activity
From $159.95
Craft Brewery & Distillery Experience
Moderate Activity
From $89.95
Canadian Craft Brewery Evening Experience
Moderate Activity
From $119.95
Taste of Victoria Culinary Walking Tour
Shopping Opportunities, Moderate Activity, Includes snack
From $54.95
A Guided Walk into Victoria
Moderate Activity
From $34.95
Guided Canopy Zipline Experience
Moderate Activity
From $54.95
Victoria by E-Bike
Moderate Activity
From $99.95
Canada Fishing Experience
Moderate Activity
From $299.95
Ocean Wildlife & Whales Exploration Cruise
Easy Activity
From $44.95