Downtown Victoria Travel Guide
Victoria
Visit Downtown Victoria
Popular places to visit
Government Street
This central street attracts the crowds with its museums and galleries, historical architecture, shopping districts and Canada’s oldest Chinatown.
Chinatown
Discover the passageways, temples, murals, shops and traditional Asian restaurants in this historic district established by Canada’s first Chinese immigrants.
Victoria Conference Centre
After visiting Victoria Conference Centre, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Victoria. Wander the waterfront and picturesque gardens in the area.
Bay Centre
During your visit to Victoria, you can do some window-shopping at Bay Centre. Wander the area's waterfront or simply enjoy one of its top-notch restaurants.
Lower Johnson Street
Shop at independent boutique stores, enjoy free live music and dance performances and see historical buildings at this popular downtown Victoria street.
Victoria Bug Zoo
Visit the native and exotic animals who live at Victoria Bug Zoo during your trip to Victoria. Visit the shops and top-notch restaurants in this walkable area.
Things to do
Ghostly Walking Tour in Victoria
Murder Mystery Detective Experience in Victoria BC
Downtown Victoria’s Historical Heart: A Self-Guided Walking Tour
Iconic & Obscure Victoria Walking Tour
Top hotels in Downtown Victoria
Fairmont Empress
"The Empress is such a great hotel. Historic and beautiful. Staff and service is top shelf. Will stay there again. Amazing location and service make it out first choice in Victoria."
Reviewed on 6 Jun 2026
Chateau Victoria Hotel and Suites
"The apartment was clean. It had a full kitchen with all the utensils and dishes needed. My husband was able to cook us a nice steak dinner in the kitchen. The smoke alarm is right by the kitchen so he set it off. The staff was very prompt to respond. So helpful advice if you cook anything that might ..."
Reviewed on 6 Jun 2026
The Parkside Hotel & Spa
"Loved the corner suite that we got. Very spacious and comfortable. Staff was amazing!"
Reviewed on 6 Jun 2026
Bedford Regency Hotel
"Decent rates and excellent location. Busy downtown area, so a bit of street noise, but not too bad. Definitely a funky character building and not a grey cookie-cutter establishment. Staff was good and things were relatively clean. Downsides: - hallway had a musty smell and plumbing needs some major ..."
Reviewed on 5 Jun 2026
The Magnolia Hotel and Spa
"Great location. Lovely rooms, though on the small side, especially the bathroom. Restaurant great for breakfast."
Reviewed on 7 Jun 2026
Strathcona Hotel
"Excellent location downtown close to all bars restaurants etc. good ac & tea/coffee. Also good value"
Reviewed on 7 Jun 2026
Where to stay in Downtown Victoria
Inner Harbour
The captivating waterfront views and popular shops are just a few highlights of Inner Harbour. Make a stop by Victoria Clipper Ferry Terminal or Victoria Harbour while you're exploring the area.
James Bay
The captivating waterfront views and popular shops are just a few highlights of James Bay. Make a stop by Victoria Harbour or Victoria Clipper Ferry Terminal while you're exploring the area.
Saanich East
If you're spending some time in Saanich East, Cadboro Bay and Cedar Hill Golf Course are top sights worth seeing.
Esquimalt
Travellers come to Esquimalt for its colourful gardens, and you can see top attractions like Sooke Salmon Charters and CFB Esquimalt Naval and Militiary Museum while you're in town.
Fairfield
Unique features of Fairfield include the historical sites and seaside views. Make a stop by Cook Street Village or Ross Bay Cemetery while you're exploring the area.
