Victoria, British Columbia

Why go

The British Columbia Parliament Buildings and Fairmont Empress frame the harbour and show the city’s late nineteenth- and early twentieth-century growth. Coast Salish communities were here long before British settlement began in 1843. Victoria’s island position also changes the logistics: make the harbour a city visit, then allow separate travel time for farther parts of Vancouver Island.

What to look for

• The Parliament Buildings and Empress face the inner harbour.
• Coast Salish presence predates the colonial city.
• Victoria sits across the water from mainland British Columbia.

Useful to know

• Explore the harbour landmarks on foot before travelling elsewhere on the island.
• Account for the crossing when combining Victoria with Vancouver.