This BC small town set on a picturesque island was named among Canada's 'most charming'
A summer trip is calling!
Person in a small town in B.C. Right: Duncan Vancouver Island small town.
This quaint spot in B.C. has everything you could want from a small-town getaway — picturesque streets, lush nature all around, and charm by the bucketful. Set on the beautiful Vancouver Island, it's an escape that you'll never want to leave.
Duncan, B.C. was dubbed one of the "most charming" small towns in Canada on a ranking crafted by Betway Inside. With historic buildings lining cozy streets and lots of local shops — it's easy to see how it earned the recognition.
One of the more charming features of the town? The farmers' market where the community gathers. As one of the oldest year-round farmers’ markets in the province, it's fun to visit and has loads of vendors (over 100, actually).
While Duncan is all small-town vibes, it's technically a city – or as the tourism website says, the "urban heart of Cowichan."
It strikes that balance of coziness and things to do, with art galleries, cafes, shops, and boutiques filling the downtown area.
Wandering the streets you'll spot the many totem polls here, of which there's over 40. The tourism website also says that Duncan is known as the "City of Totems," and you can go and see the "beautifully carved totems by Indigenous artists from across Vancouver Island, Canada and as far away as New Zealand" on a self-guided walking tour using a totem tour map.
The vibe here is lively and bustling, giving you a small taste of city life wrapped in the peaceful nature of the surroundings. The Cowichan region is known for its beauty, and a vacation here means exploring beyond the borders of the city.
There's incredible hiking, sparkling lakes, farm stands scattered around, and even wineries to tour.
Time for a getaway!
Before you get going, check out our Responsible Travel Guide so you can be informed, be safe, be smart, and most of all, be respectful on your adventure.