With the mildest climate in Canada, flowers bloom and the grass stays a lush green in Victoria year-round. It is often the talking point for residents who like to point out that they go out for afternoon strolls through grassy parks while the rest of Canada is shivering in bitter cold during the winter months. Draped around the southern tip of Vancouver Island, Victoria has tied to both land and sea with the rugged natural beauty of the Pacific coast never far away. Easily explored by foot, a visit to Victoria in winter is relaxing and rejuvenating. Take advantage of the diverse historical, architectural and cultural mix that comes with the oldest city in the Pacific Northwest.
Make your way to Richmond, home of Vancouver International Airport. An island city, Richmond lies on the shores of the Straits of Georgia and on the Fraser River delta.
Immerse yourself in Richmond's history and you'll discover that Richmond's roots are as dynamic and fascinating as the city is today. Step foot in the fishing village of Steveston, where the boats ebb and flow in the harbour and historic buildings line the streets. Explore the 1894-built Gulf of Georgia Cannery National Historic Site, and learn about the history of the fishing and canning industry through captivating guided tours and exhibits. Later, in the evening, head to the heart of Richmond and walk the well known 'Dumpling Trail' visiting several authentic Asian dumpling restaurants for some warming food
A short taxi ride will take you this morning to the Vancouver South Water Terminal located on the southernmost arm of the Fraser River. Take a short and scenic float plane flight over the picturesque Gulf Islands to Victoria Harbour. Explore Victoria's, heritage, architecture, colorful gardens, world class culinary experiences and a vibrant arts and culture scene. Drop your bags off at the hotel and do a walking tour of the Victoria Public Market followed by stops at The Harmonious Gates of Interest, Fan Tan Alley, Market Square, Bastion Square, Trounce Alley, Government St., the Inner Harbour Causeway and finally, the Parliament Building.
Take a tour of the renowned Butchart Garden, with over 55 acres of spectacular floral displays set in an old stone quarry. The gardens are not only a summer affair. With Victoria's mild climate, the shrubs, bushes and the occasional flowers, can be seen even during winter. After your Butchart Garden visit, return to Victoria and see the Royal BC Museum with its ever-changing exhibits. Visit Hermann's Jazz Club this evening for some lively music to wind down the day.
Explore the walkable heart of Victoria at leisure. We suggest a visit to Craigdarroch Castle, a very Victorian experience. Craigdarroch is a shining example of a "bonanza castle" "” massive houses built for business entrepreneurs who became wealthy during the industrial age. In this case, the industrialist was Robert Dunsmuir, a Scottish immigrant who made his fortune from Vancouver Island coal. This Victorian mansion, built between 1887 and 1890 on a hill overlooking the City of Victoria, was built to tell society that Robert Dunsmuir was the richest and most important man in Western Canada.Later this afternoon, board the floatplane flight for the short flight to Vancouver harbour. Take a taxi the short distance to your Vancouver city centre hotel.
Spend time to explore Vancouver and its many winter attractions before departing.
Contact our travel experts for current departure dates, prices and any changes you have in mind.
Escorted Tour
8Days
HAGWTour Code
Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Haida Gwaii, Prince Rupert
3Days
3TCSTour Code
3Days
3VACSTour Code
3Days
3VICSTour Code
