A day in Canada, part 1

Top 5 things to see in Victoria, British Columbia

I've had the pleasure of visiting Victoria, BC, Canada twice (and counting). Once on a cruise and the second time for a weekend birthday trip. With no real ideas about what this amazing city had to offer, my family and I visited some unique and memorable places that I am thrilled to share with you!

Whether it's just a quick port stop on an Alaskan cruise, or a weekend trip, here are the top 5 sights to check out on your next trip to Victoria, British Columbia!

1.The Butchart Gardens

If you're a nature-lover, or you just love seeing beautiful sights, Butchart Gardens has to be at the top of your to-do list for your visit to Victoria! Perhaps one of the most magical and captivating places I have ever visited, these botanical gardens make you feel like you have entered into another world. Located in Brentwood Bay, the Gardens are about a 35-45 minute drive from Downtown Victoria, but if you're in no rush, I would highly recommend taking the transit bus. Not only will it save you money, but it was amazing way to see more of the area and have a chance to interact with locals. You won't regret taking the time to check out this National Historical Site of Canada!

You can find more info at their website https://www.butchartgardens.com/

2. Chinatown, Victoria

As the oldest Chinatown in Canada, and the second oldest in North America, whether it's a quick stop, or a day in Chinatown, you are sure to have a unique experience exploring such a rich culture. When I visited Chinatown, it was during a port stop on the Alaskan cruise, so I did not spend as much time there as I would have liked. If visiting on a cruise, you can walk through downtown Victoria on your way to Chinatown which, for us, was an amazing way to really explore the city more. You can also choose different tour options that will guide you through Chinatown such as a pedicab tour!

Make sure to look for Fan Tan Alley, the narrowest street in Canada!

3. Parliament Buildings

If you have an interest in history, politics, or amazing architecture, take a tour of the Parliament Buildings located in downtown Victoria. I chose to take a self-guided tour of the buildings as I wished to focus more on taking in the beautiful architecture. You can also take a guided tour that will provide a history of the buildings and information on the Assembly. Whichever tour you choose, be sure to check out the gift shop! Though small, it has an adorable charm to it, and it's the place where I found one of my all-time favorite hoodies!

For more info on the tours and visiting information go to https://www.leg.bc.ca

4. Downtown Victoria

A short walk from the cruise port you will find yourself in the cute, lively, waterfront downtown of Victoria. Boasting an abundant selection of restaurants, shopping, souvenir stores, and amazing views of the water, you are sure to have an amazing time wandering through this amazing downtown. Known for its walkability, it makes it an amazing place to explore if on a cruise, or if you're simply seeking to limit the need for transportation. You can easily combine your strolling around here with your visit to the Parliament Buildings which are also located downtown!

5. Craigdarroch Castle

About a 6-minute drive or a 23-min walk from downtown Victoria is a lovely Victorian mansion, the Craigdarroch Castle. You can take a self-guided tour that will take about an hour. The Victorian style exterior of this castle is definitely a sight to see. Add this unique experience to your trip and be sure to get in some amazing photos while you're there. *Please note, per their website the castle is a historic house museum, so there aren't any ramps or elevators, and it's not wheelchair accessible.*

For more info about the Castle check out https://thecastle.ca

Pro Tip: Combine your trip to Victoria with a quick visit to Seattle and take the ferry from Seattle to Victoria which will allow you to slow down, relax and enjoy some time out on the water. This can be especially helpful if you wish to save money by flying into Seattle instead of Victoria!

If you are someone who likes to see as much as possible when visiting a new place, plan carefully and you are sure to be able to fit in a few of these top spots on your next trip to Victoria, just as we did when we stopped here on our cruise. If you would rather explore at a leisurely pace, focus on downtown Victoria and Chinatown, and you will still have an amazing experience exploring such a beautiful city!

Keep an eye out for part 2 of a day in Canada, only this time receive tips for exploring Moose Jaw, Canada!