The Garden City, as Victoria is known, boasts the mildest climate in Canada. The picturesque Inner Harbour and downtown core explode with colour as flowers bloom year round. The city reflects its First Nations and British history in heritage architecture, totem poles, and afternoon tea. Victoria is also a playground for outdoor adventure enthusiasts, where whale watching, kayaking, hiking and biking vie for your attention. The harbour is alive with the romance of an era when tall ships moored alongside the wharf, and lights twinkle atop the landmark British Columbia Legislative Buildings. With its clean environment and charming ambience, Victoria is one of the world's favourite destinations. Read on to find out about some of the top attractions and activities in Victoria.

THE ROYAL BRITISH COLUMBIA MUSEUM

Rated as one of the best in the world, it traces the natural history of Vancouver Island and the province of British Columbia from pre-Ice Age to the present day. It also includes Thunderbird Park, where carvers create new totem poles in the Carver’s Shed, and reproductions of ancient totems are on display.

THE PROVINCIAL LEGISLATURE

The domed buildings of the Provincial Legislature, on the south side of the Inner Harbour, are worth a visit. Take a free tour through the building to learn more about our province’s history and government. Be sure to see these buildings at night when they are outlined by thousands of tiny lights.

BUTCHART GARDENS

A 50-acre botanical showcase, the perfectly groomed gardens are renowned for skillful blending of rare and exotic plants and trees mixed with native flora. Explore the colorful series of Japanese, Rose and Italian gardens by taking the self-guided tour along the paved walkways.

TEA AT THE EMPRESS

The Jewel of the Pacific, The Fairmont Empress is one of Victoria's highlights. Cresting the city's Inner Harbour, this 477-room hotel was built in the Edwardian style and recently restored to its original grandeur, with antique furniture and luxurious décor. In true British tradition, the hotel is famous for its elegant Afternoon Tea - served to over 130,000 visitors annually.

SHOPPING

In Victoria you’ll find one-of-a-kind boutiques in Market Square, a European-style market place in Bastion Square, and plenty of specialty stores for antiques, tea, British memorabilia, First Nations’ art along Government Street and Fort Street in the downtown core.

Don’t forget to allow yourself time to catch a ferry back to Salt Spring if you are returning at the end of your day. The 35 minute crossing from Swartz Bay takes you to Fulford Harbour on Salt Spring’s southern tip. More great day trips to explore southern Vancouver Island start with a 20 minute ferry ride from Vesuvius, on the west side of Salt Spring Island.