Victoria & Vancouver Island

Victoria, British Columbia's capital, is located on the rocky southern end of Vancouver Island. It is well-known for its ample parkland and outdoor activities. The Victorian architecture of the city, particularly the grand Craigdarroch Castle house, reflects the city's British colonial past. Butchart Gardens, with its 55 acres of vibrant floral displays, statuary, water features, and a carousel, is one of the city's many formal gardens.

Despite being only a 90-minute ferry journey from bustling Vancouver, British Columbia's capital city appears to be a world apart. Victoria, on the other hand, takes a more traditional approach than its younger neighbor. This small city on Vancouver Island's southern coast is profoundly anchored in its Colonial past, with distinctively British customs like afternoon tea at the Fairmont Empress and a pint at the pub. But it doesn't imply this is a destination only for Anglophiles. Despite its nostalgic tendencies, this city attracts a diverse range of visitors with outstanding museums honoring its aboriginal past, lovely architecture, and spectacular harbor vistas.

But don't stop at the Inner Harbour; there's a lot more to this area than beautiful gardens and afternoon tea. There are various family-friendly attractions in Victoria and on Vancouver Island. A trip to the Victoria Butterfly Gardens or a trek at Juan de Fuca Provincial Park will be enjoyable for your children. A whale watching tour is one opportunity you should not pass up: orcas are prevalent in this area. Vancouver Island is also noted for its long beaches and lush vineyards. Drive from downtown Victoria to Sooke, a busy boating and fishing town, or out to the Cowichan Valley, where rows of vines are packed with grapes. Bring your camera, for the view is guaranteed to delight even the most jaded traveler.

Location: Canada

Best time to visit: March to May and September to November

Ranking:

• #7 Best Places to Visit in Canada
• #7 Best Places to Visit in November
• #11 Best Family Vacations in Canada

Website: victoria.ca