This small BC city nestled on an island was named among Canada's best for 'quality of life'
This may have you packing your bags. 🧳
A small city in BC.
This dreamy city is set on an island in B.C., surrounded by sparkling coastline, wild rainforest, and misty shores.
Charming streets here are lined with local boutiques, cute cafes, and delicious restaurants. It's the ideal summer escape, with the perfect balance of city and nature.
Recently, Victoria was named as one of the best spots in the country for quality of life, on a Narcity poll, and it's not hard to see why. The bustling streets of the city are tucked away within the breathtaking beauty of Vancouver Island – a place known for its incredible nature.
Victoria is the main hub of the island, offering all the amenities, while still having the tranquillity of the environment within reach.
The waterfront here is especially idyllic, with a pathway running alongside it that offers stunning views of the sparkling ocean. You'll see boats bobbing, the stately Parliament Buildings, and the iconic Fairmont Empress hotel framing the harbour.
Keep on walking and you'll find Fisherman's Wharf — a popular tourist spot with charming stores and float homes on the water.
Downtown is vibrant and full of cute shops, colourful buildings, cool alleyways, and delicious food spots. The streets have a somewhat European feel to them, and the city is actually known as the "most British" one in Canada.
Beyond the downtown area, you'll find city beaches and view after view.
A little further out you can visit The Butchart Gardens, which is a stunning 55-acre oasis with thousands of blooms.
If you want to keep the fairy-tale like vibes going you can go to Hatley Castle – which looks like it's been plucked from the set of Bridgerton.
Weekend adventures from here can take you to incredible hidden wonders — like Mystic Beach with its cascading waterfall, or the emerald green waters of the Sooke Potholes.
Road trips are to famous destinations like Tofino, or other small towns that are more low-key, like Qualicum Beach.
With its blend of city life and access to unbelievable nature, it's easy to see why people love Victoria.
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.