Site Search

Quick Links

Newsletter Signup

Current Newsletter | Newsletter Archive

You are here » Home / Victoria and Around

Victoria and Around

Victoria is located on the southern tip of Vancouver Island, British Columbia's largest of 6500 islands.Known as the "Garden City", Victoria has a year-round growing season and is home to Canada's mildest climate. Combined with the wild beauty of the Pacific coast and snow-capped vistas, it is little wonder why Victoria is one of the world's top destinations.

Located in sub-Mediterranean zone, Victoria maintains an average of 2,183 hours of sunshine yearly, and an 8-month frost-free season. Average annual rainfall is 26.2 inches (compared to over 50 inches in New York). The average monthly rainfall in winter is 5 cm (2 inches) and in the summer is less than 2.5 cm (1 inch).¹

With an estimated regional population of 326,000¹, Victoria manages to maintain small town appeal with big city amenities. Its British heritage is evident in its heritage architecture, manicured gardens, neighbourhood restaurants and pubs, and the famous Inner Harbour extending towards the Empress Hotel and the Parliament buildings.

Between Vancouver Island and the mainland, British Columbia's Gulf Islands lie in the protected waters of the Georgia Strait. Approximately 200 islands extend northeast of Victoria and provide the ideal destination for a day trip or an extended vacation. Many of the Gulf Islands are inhabited and offer a mecca for arts and crafts, outdoor recreation and overnight getaways in charming hideaways.²

In a survey conducted by Conde Nast Traveller magazine, Victoria was judged to be one of the world's best cities, topping the list in the category of environment and ambiance. In a cross-Canada survey, Victoria residents registered the greatest satisfaction with their city.¹

Victoria boasts a wide variety of city transit options. Public buses operate throughout all parts of the city from very early each morning to late every night. Taxicab fares usually fall between $5 and $20 to and from most areas of the city.

^{1. From the City of Victoria website (http://www.city.victoria.bc.ca/)}

^{2. From the Victoria Tourism website (http://www.tourismvictoria.com/)}