Places to Visit in Vancouver Island - Vancouver Island Must-See Attractions
Things to Do in Vancouver Island
Check out must-see sights and activities:
The Butchart Gardens, Inner Harbour, Nature and Wildlife Tours, Hiking Trails. For personalised recommendations, try our AI trip-planning product.
The Butchart Gardens, Inner Harbour, Nature and Wildlife Tours, Hiking Trails. For personalised recommendations, try our AI trip-planning product.
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Book these experiences for a close-up look at Vancouver Island.
- fromper adultRM 934
Private and Luxuryfromper adultRM 322
Water Transfersfromper adultRM 725
On the Waterfromper adultRM 679
Horse Carriage Ridesfromper group (up to 6)RM 885- fromper adultRM 885
- from
RM 3,057per group (up to 6)RM 2,599 
Skip the line Ticketsfromper adultRM 129- fromper adultRM 580
Likely To Sell Outfromper adultRM 564
Points of Interest & Landmarks
Garden showcasing a diverse floral array, night tours with light shows, and themed areas, including a standout Japanese garden and an enchanting Sunken Garden. Features live music events.
This attraction description was created by AI, using information and phrases commonly found in reviews users submitted to Tripadvisor. Tripadvisor did not create and is not responsible for this description. Please read full traveller reviews for more details and information. If you believe something in this AI-generated description is inaccurate, please share your feedback.
Bodies of Water
Scenic park with diverse gardens, wildlife including peacocks and deer, walking trails, and a petting zoo. Highlights include the world's tallest totem pole and tranquil water features.
This attraction description was created by AI, using information and phrases commonly found in reviews users submitted to Tripadvisor. Tripadvisor did not create and is not responsible for this description. Please read full traveller reviews for more details and information. If you believe something in this AI-generated description is inaccurate, please share your feedback.
Speciality Museums
Family-friendly venue with engaging dinosaur exhibits and a notable IMAX theatre for immersive cinematic experiences. Showcases BC natural history and rotating displays on Canadian heritage.
This attraction description was created by AI, using information and phrases commonly found in reviews users submitted to Tripadvisor. Tripadvisor did not create and is not responsible for this description. Please read full traveller reviews for more details and information. If you believe something in this AI-generated description is inaccurate, please share your feedback.
Hiking Trails
Speciality Museums
Restored castle with period furnishings and stained glass, presenting a rich history through self-guided tours and extensive family exhibits.
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Piers & Boardwalks
State Parks
Caving adventure with guided tours through subterranean landscapes, featuring climbs, crawls, and chambers in total darkness for an energizing experience.
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Historic Sites
Historic building with evening illumination, provides guided and self-guided tours revealing its past and architecture, including stained glass tributes and landscaped grounds.
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National Parks
Coastal haven with lush rainforest hikes, secluded beaches, and scenic trails for biking. Discover diverse ecosystems, enjoy surf-friendly waves, and witness stunning sunsets.
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Historic Sites
Historic hotel boasts a central waterfront location, with clean rooms featuring harbor views. Enjoy traditional high tea in a Victorian ambiance or stroll through breathtaking lobby and grounds.
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Popular Cities in Vancouver Island
*Likely to sell out: Based on Viator’s booking data and information from the provider from the past 30 days, it seems likely this experience will sell out through Viator, a Tripadvisor company.
What travellers are saying
- Belinda EBrisbane, Australia575 contributionsWe attended for the Christmas lights and it was lovely. Pricing is fairly reasonable and it's definitely one of the must see attractions on Vancouver Island.
The gardens are a fairly long way from Victoria so, without a car, it can be a bit of a mission to get there. We went as part of a private tour and appreciated being dropped off and picked up. It is all open air and there aren't many places to hide out from the rain so make sure you are prepared for the weather.
The gardens are extensive so allow a good few hours to get around and see everything.Written 10 January 2025This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. - CanadocFort Langley, Canada149 contributionsA very peaceful walk around the inner harbour and went back again at night to get photos of the lights on the Parliament buildings.Written 1 January 2025This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- melindag168Seattle, WA45 contributionsGorgeous park super close to downtown. Fall colors are spectacular and I’ve never seen so many wild peacocks wandering around. Lots of water features, lovely landscaping. Worth a visit, especially in fall!Written 28 October 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- WestCoastRestlessCentral Oregon, OR274 contributionsWe spent a long afternoon here in the exhibits and at the Imax. The exhibits were really interesting and even kept the kids (tweens) engaged. The IMAX was fantastic. We saw the one on the Arctic one in 3D and it was beautiful, but sad (talking about the impact of climate change). Definitely don't rush through and savor the exhibits.Written 6 January 2025This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- digitalrocCalgary, Canada2,138 contributionsWhile visiting Ucluelet, I drove to the Wild Pacific Trail at Brown’s Beach to check it out. The trail is very nice, and the views are spectacular! Despite the light rain, the hike on this trail was amazing!Written 23 September 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- @lawyer.traveler.dreamerSeattle, WA1,348 contributionsDiscover the Timeless Charm of Craigdarroch Castle in Victoria, BC
Looking for more tips and insights about Craigdarroch Castle or other amazing destinations? Check out my IG and TT at @lawyer.traveler.dreamer for travel guides, reviews, and behind-the-scenes adventures!
Craigdarroch Castle is a must-visit destination in Victoria, British Columbia, for history lovers, architecture enthusiasts, and travelers seeking a unique cultural experience. This Victorian-era mansion, perched on a hilltop, combines fascinating history with breathtaking views of the city and surrounding landscapes.
Why Craigdarroch Castle Should Be on Your List
1. Step Into Victorian Elegance
Explore the beautifully preserved rooms of this iconic mansion, featuring intricate stained glass windows, detailed woodwork, and elegant vintage decor. Each space offers a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the Dunsmuir family, who once called this castle home.
2. Tower Views That Amaze
Don’t miss the castle’s tower, where you can enjoy panoramic views of Victoria. It’s a perfect spot for capturing stunning photos, especially during sunrise or sunset.
3. A Photographer’s Dream Location
From its ornate interiors to sweeping vistas, Craigdarroch Castle is a treasure trove for photographers. Every corner of this historic site provides an opportunity to capture something beautiful and unique.
Plan Your Visit Like a Pro
• Dedicate at least 1–2 hours to fully experience the castle’s exhibits and views.
• Bring your camera to capture the incredible architectural details and scenic surroundings.
• Visit early or during weekdays for a quieter experience.
Add Craigdarroch Castle to your Victoria itinerary and prepare to step back in time while enjoying one of Canada’s most beautiful landmarks.
#CraigdarrochCastle #VictoriaBC #HistoricSitesCanada #VictorianArchitecture #VictoriaTravelTips #TravelInspiration #LawyerTravelerDreamerWritten 23 November 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. - Wayne NSydney, Australia2,610 contributionsA small wharf full of restaurants gift shops and the most amazing floating homes.
Easy flat walk from Victoria about 15-20min along the foreshore.
Worth a visit.Written 20 October 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. - Bill B1 contributionOur guide Curt was was very informative patient, educated and funny. EXCELLENT EXPERIENCE.
This was our first time Caving and won't be our last. This is a must try experience.Written 12 January 2025This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. - Sandie ZCalgary, Canada62 contributionsGreat beach to watch surfers and walk dogs. Close to many resorts a good safe walking path along hwy to walk or bike. Friendly people we met walking mostly from the island and frequent visitors.Written 25 September 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- woollymammothCanada13 contributionsGreat post-election afternoon that started with lunch in the Parliamentary Dining Room, literally a hidden gem reached through a maze of intriguing corridors. Loved chatting with the gift shop manager, Polla, who was learning the names of the many new MLAs and joked that we might be among them. Loved our unofficial tour with journalist Keith Baldrey who was tremendously generous with his knowledge of the building and its history. Ended with an excellent official tour led by Nicholas which we found to be eye opening, dramatic and fun. Don't know why we didn't visit sooner but very glad we met all the terrific storytellers we did yesterday.Written 31 October 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- Lbroome705Courtenay, Canada91 contributionsSo beautiful, lots of gorgeous nature to see and we got some great photos. We split our time between hiking trails and exploring the beaches. We have come to Tofino and Ucluelet several times in later summer but late May/early June was better timing - way less hot for us. Enjoyed the forest in the rain.Written 3 June 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- CanadocFort Langley, Canada149 contributionsWalking through the hotel is a magical experience. The architecture, ambiance, decorations, all wonderful. You will feel special just walking through.Written 1 January 2025This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
The above attraction descriptions were created by AI, using information and phrases commonly found in reviews users submitted to Tripadvisor. Tripadvisor did not create and is not responsible for any of the above attraction descriptions. Please read full traveller reviews for more details and information.
Reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.