What you'll do
Embark on a two-week adventure across Vancouver Island, an outdoor lover’s paradise filled with diverse landscapes and endless natural beauty.
Vancouver Island is surprisingly massive. We've lived here for five years and we still haven't seen everything!
A two week trip, of course, isn't enough time to see everything. But we have put together a doable itinerary to give you a taste of all of the island's coasts and the amazing diversity here.
Begin in the vibrant capital of Victoria, known for its charming harbour, British heritage, and stunning gardens.
Journey north to the remote fishing village of Port Hardy, a gateway to whale-watching, kayaking, and rugged coastal wilderness.
Experience the wild west coast in Tofino and Ucluelet, where surfing, storm watching, and expansive sandy beaches await.
Venture inland to the towering peaks and alpine lakes of Strathcona Provincial Park, a haven for hikers and nature enthusiasts.
From vibrant cities to remote beaches, mountains, and rainforests, Vancouver Island offers a one-of-a-kind journey that caters to every kind of traveler.
Day 1
Disclaimer:
Our Vancouver Island travel guide offers packed, detailed itineraries designed to help you make the most of your time exploring this beautiful and diverse region. Vancouver Island is vast, with countless sights to see and experiences to enjoy, so there is plenty of ground to cover. While our itineraries provide a full and exciting schedule, we encourage you to tailor your trip to fit your preferences.
Please keep in mind that driving distances between destinations can vary significantly. We recommend doing some research to understand the travel times between locations and planning your route accordingly. Our itineraries are meant to inspire your journey, allowing you the flexibility to make your trip as short, long, busy, or relaxed as you like.
Happy exploring!
Woohoo you've made it to Victoria! Our favourite city in the world!
The capital of British Columbia and a great place to start your full island adventure from.
Some things to note for a Vancouver Island road trip:
We recommend a 4WD vehicle with good clearance to be able to access many of the spots on this journey. While a regular car would let you see 95% of this trip, the extra 5% are epic spots worth the drive.
Much of the island has no cell service. Make sure you map out gas stations, have a paper map or downloaded map, have safety gear like spare tires, jumper cables and first aid kits.
This is a jam-packed two week adventure! The island is massive and there is a lot of ground to cover. This is definitely doable in two weeks, but if you have more time available, it would be even more enjoyable to spread this out over a longer period of time.
Jam Cafe
restaurant
Cozy Southern-inspired comfort food restaurant
Jam Cafe is probably the most well known and popular brunch spot in the city. There is always a line out the door every weekend!
It's a cozy all-day breakfast and lunch spot known for their Southern-inspired comfort food like house-made cornbread, buttermilk biscuits, and fried chicken. Jam Cafe offers a menu filled with family recipes passed down through generations.
The rustic and vintage decor adds to the welcoming atmosphere, making it a popular choice for those looking for a hearty and satisfying meal.
The Butchart Gardens
park
Stunning botanical gardens in Canada
Welcome to the enchanting Butchart Gardens, a floral wonderland nestled in Victoria that’s sure to captivate your senses!
Imagine strolling through a kaleidoscope of vibrant blooms, each garden revealing a new tapestry of colors and fragrances. From the sunken garden’s dramatic landscape to the serene beauty of the Japanese garden, every corner is a photographer’s dream.
Don’t miss the mesmerizing fountain shows and the delightful carousel ride for a touch of whimsy.
After wandering through the vibrant blooms, treat yourself to a meal at The Dining Room Restaurant, where gourmet dishes crafted from fresh, local ingredients await. Savor exquisite West Coast cuisine while enjoying panoramic views of the gardens. For a more relaxed vibe, head to The Blue Poppy Restaurant, offering a seasonal menu with casual fare perfect for refueling between garden explorations.
No visit to Butchart Gardens is complete without experiencing their iconic Afternoon Tea. Served in the charming setting of The Dining Room, this tradition offers an array of delicate finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones with clotted cream and preserves, and an assortment of pastries and sweets. Paired with a selection of fine teas, this is the perfect way to unwind and soak in the garden's serene beauty.
Hours:
Spring (March 1 - June 14): 9 AM to 5 PM
Summer (June 15 - September 15): 9 AM to 10 PM
Fall (September 16 - October 31): 9 AM to 5 PM
Winter (November 1 - November 30): 9 AM to 3:30 PM
Christmas Season (December 1 - January 6): 3:30 PM to 9 PM
Winter (January 7 - February 28): 9 AM to 3:30 PM
Ticket Prices:
Adults (18-64):
Spring: $26.25 CAD
Summer: $36.75 CAD
Fall: $26.25 CAD
Winter: $19.75 CAD
Youth (13-17):
Spring: $13.50 CAD
Summer: $18.25 CAD
Fall: $13.50 CAD
Winter: $9.75 CAD
Children (5-12):
Spring: $2.00 CAD
Summer: $3.00 CAD
Fall: $2.00 CAD
Winter: $2.00 CAD
Children (4 and under): Free
*Special rates apply during the Christmas season and for annual passes. Keep in mind that prices and hours are subject to change, so it's always a good idea to check the official Butchart Gardens website or contact them directly before your visit for the most up-to-date information.
Fisherman's Wharf Victoria
Sightseeing
Charming waterfront village with eco-tours
Fisherman's Wharf Victoria is a hidden gem nestled just around the corner from Victoria's Inner Harbour.
It's like a mini waterfront village with food kiosks, cute shops, and cool eco-tour adventures right in the heart of a working harbor.
You can grab some fresh seafood, check out the boats, and explore the colourful float home community here.
Whether you're a local, a tourist, or just off a cruise ship, this place is worth a visit for a laid-back, seaside vibe.
Grab a bit to eat at one of the restaurants found on the Wharf.
Inner-Harbour Pathway
Sightseeing
Picturesque harbour in historic Victoria
Victoria is a harbour city and The Inner Harbour is an active, bustling, picturesque spot with a rich history.
It's a hub for boats, float planes, festivals, and whale watching tours. You can stroll along the pathway, taking in the stunning views of the water and historic architecture.
It's a great place to relax, grab a bite to eat, or just soak up the vibrant atmosphere of this charming city by the sea.
Legislative Assembly of British Columbia
Sightseeing
BC's elected officials making decisions
This is Victoria's iconic landmark and is often referred to as 'The Parliament'. Gorgeous architecture, stunning grounds and views of the Inner Harbour. You can't miss it when you are visiting Victoria!
The Legislative Assembly of British Columbia is made up of 87 elected officials called Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs).
Guided tours are offered each day between Monday, May 20 and Monday, September 2, 2024.
Tours are free and last approximately 40 minutes.
No advance bookings are needed for public tours.
Victoria’s Chinatown
Sightseeing
Vibrant historic Chinatown in Canada
Victoria's Chinatown National Historic Site is the oldest and most intact Chinatown in Canada, located in downtown Victoria.
It was the largest urban center of Chinese population in Canada during the early 20th century and remains a vibrant reminder of the early years of Chinese settlement in the country.
With its distinctive architecture, including flared temple-style roofs and brightly hued tiled overhangs, Victoria's Chinatown offers a richly textured glimpse into the history and heritage of Chinese Canadians.
Fan Tan Alley
Sightseeing
Historic narrow street in Victoria
Fan Tan Alley in Chinatown, Victoria is a super narrow street that's famous for being the skinniest commercial lane in North America!
It used to be a hotspot for gambling and opium back in the day, but now it's all about cute shops, art galleries, and yummy restaurants.
Mel Gibson and Goldie Hawn even rode a motorcycle down it in Bird on a Wire!
This is a must see in Victoria and a great photo-op!
Bastion Square
Sightseeing
Historic charm in downtown Victoria
Bastion Square, located in the heart of Victoria Downtown, is a vibrant pedestrian square packed with history and charm.
Once home to gallows, a brothel, and even a jail, this square now boasts beautifully refurbished stone buildings housing offices, restaurants, bars, and boutiques.
You can explore art galleries, markets, cafes, and historic mansions while enjoying stunning views of the Inner Harbour.
Don't miss out on the Bastion Square Public Market for unique finds from local vendors and artisans. The market is open from 11am – 5pm every Thursday – Sunday (weather permitting) from late April to early October.
Bard & Banker
restaurant
Historic pub with lively atmosphere
The Bard & Banker is a lively pub with a rich history, beautiful atmosphere, awesome menu and live music! It is our go-to spot in Victoria!
The exterior and interior of this building are absolutely stunning. It was built in 1885, originally as a bank, and the details are gorgeous.
There are so many reasons to visit this pub including their incredible wine menu, wine 'cave', cozy 'snugs', and the fact that it is lively from brunch into the night!
The Magnolia Hotel and Spa
hotel
Luxury boutique hotel in Victoria
We've visited Victoria dozens of times and have stayed in many of the wonderful hotels there. But the Magnolia Hotel & Spa is our favourite.
The Magnolia is a luxury boutique hotel that offers an unrivaled experience in the heart of the city. Victoria's top ranked boutique hotel!
With just 64 rooms, this small hotel packs a big punch with personalized service, elegant rooms filled with natural light, a tranquil spa offering holistic treatments, and a top-notch dining experience at The Courtney Room.
It is in the perfect location to explore Victoria's attractions, shop and sightsee.
The hotel has been recognized by Travel + Leisure, Condé Nast, and Trip Advisor as one of the top hotels in Canada, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking boutique luxury and authentic experiences.