advertise
Vanislander / Activities / Solo Travel in Victoria

Solo Travel in Victoria


Why Choose Victoria for Solo Travel?

Victoria’s reputation as a safe, walkable city makes it a top pick for solo travel in Victoria, BC. Travelers praise its friendly locals and compact layout, perfect for solo weekend getaways Victoria. One camper, described her journey to Elk Bay as “the most amazing adventure”, highlighting the island’s natural beauty. Whether you’re a woman seeking ladies weekend away ideas Victoria on a budget or anyone craving a solo trip to Victoria, the city’s blend of urban and outdoor experiences is unmatched.

More

Less

Getting to Victoria

By Ferry: Board the ferry with BC Ferries from Vancouver’s Tsawwassen to Swartz Bay (1.5 hours, $17.20 CAD). Book early via their website, especially in summer. The Black Ball Ferry Line from Port Angeles, WA (~$20 CAD), offers a cross-border option for solo travelers' tours in Victoria, British Columbia.
By Flight: Victoria International Airport (YYJ) welcomes flights from Vancouver ($100 CAD one-way) via Air Canada or WestJet. Use Expedia for deals. A shuttle to downtown costs $25 CAD.
By Floatplane: For a scenic start to your solo trip to Victoria, BC, book a 35-minute flight with Harbour Air (~$200 CAD).

More

Less

Getting Around Victoria

Public Transit: BC Transit buses ($2.50 CAD/ride, $5 CAD/day pass) connect key spots. The Victoria Harbour Ferry ($8 CAD) is a charming way to explore the waterfront.
Cycling: Rent bikes from Cycle BC (~$30 CAD/day) for the Galloping Goose Trail, a 55-km path ideal for solo travelling Victoria on Vancouver Island.
Walking: Downtown’s pedestrian-friendly streets make it nice for a solo traveler on a Saturday night, with attractions like Fan Tan Alley just steps away.

More

Less

Top Destinations for Solo Travelers 

 Inner Harbour: The vibrant heart of solo travelling Victoria on Vancouver Island, the Inner Harbour offers waterfront strolls, floatplane views, and street performers. “It’s so beautiful… the Parliament building lights up,” shared a traveler. Safe day or night, it’s a must-visit.
Butchart Gardens: A 55-acre floral paradise, reachable by Route 75 bus ($2.50 CAD). Entry is $38 CAD, but its sunken garden and seasonal displays are worth it. “It’s a really expansive beautiful garden space,” noted a solo traveler.
Royal BC Museum: For $27 CAD, dive into Indigenous and natural history exhibits. “The displays were really cool to see,” said a visitor. Free tours at 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM enhance the experience.
Chinatown: Canada’s oldest Chinatown is a vibrant stop for solo travelers' tours in Downtown, Victoria. Explore Fan Tan Alley and dine at Fan Tan Cafe (~$15 CAD/meal). “I loved the hidden gems,” a traveler raved.
Beacon Hill Park: A free urban oasis with trails and a petting zoo. “This is where the pickleball courts are,” a solo traveler noted, perfect for relaxation.

More

Less

Booking Tips

Accommodations: Use Hostelworld for hostels or Tourism Victoria for hotels. Book early for summer or holiday stays.
Tours: Reserve solo travelers' tours in Downtown, Victoria via A Taste of Victoria Food Tours or Discover the Past.
Permits: No permits are needed for urban exploration, but check BC Parks for camping or hiking permits in
 nearby parks like Goldstream.

More

Less

Vancouver Island Activities

Hiking on the Elk Falls via Millenium Trail

Hiking on the Elk Falls via Millenium Trail

The Elk Falls via Millenium Trail is a family-friendly loop. This excellent hike with spectacular views includes waterfalls, Suspension Bridge, sitting areas and the Campbell River. Hiking this trail certainly tests your nerves. It is well maintained with several facilities. Get in touch with beautiful scenery along the river, and enjoy the stunning park with all family members while you are just a few kilometres away from downtown.

Victoria Storm Watching

Victoria Storm Watching

If you happen to visit Victoria during fall and winter, do not hesitate to go storm-watching. It is a perfect place for brave souls seeking some exciting moments, watching the high waves making up in the distance, rolling into the coast, crashing against the rocks while rain's whipping. Protecting this natural phenomenon of nature is one of the most popular recreations at Victoria and exposed west beaches of Vancouver Island.

Camping in Qualicum Bay Resort

Camping in Qualicum Bay Resort

As a popular destination for campers from Nanaimo or Courtenay, Qualicum Bay Resort is one of the best places for nature admirers. Amuse your eye with the beautiful scenic view of this campground located on a beautiful beach. You are provided with almost every kind of camping and incredible landscape for those in the RV campground.

Camping in Fillongley Provincial Park Campground

Camping in Fillongley Provincial Park Campground

If you got a few days free and you plan to spend it on Vancouver Island, pay a visit to Fillongely Provincial Park to experience every possible way of camping. Nestled amongst lush green deciduous trees, visitors would enjoy excellent hiking trails with picturesque sights. This quiet, clean, and grassy park provides you with exciting activities and a gorgeous ocean and forest view.

Port McNeill Kayaking and Canoeing

Port McNeill Kayaking and Canoeing

Let your spirits feed on the adventure provided for you in Port McNeill. One of the best places for paddlers, Port McNeill, has a sheltered harbour and fabulous waterways suitable for kayaking and canoeing. This place is the gateway to real adventure in which you can experience every kind of vigorous activity both on land and at sea.

Hiking on the Campbell River Canyon View Trail

Hiking on the Campbell River Canyon View Trail

Just outside Campbell River, step into an exciting hiking trail in the middle of a provincial park. It is where the stunning view of Douglas-fir forests comes with a wide variety of wildlife to watch. Find your way alongside the river in a loop which in some parts would be a challenge. It would be great if you plan to be there in the afternoon with a view of the sun when you cross the river.

Rivtow Lion Diving

Rivtow Lion Diving

If you are making a checklist of diving places on Vancouver Island, make sure it includes the Rivtow Lion Diving zone. Rivtow Lion was a ship that was sunk on purpose, and through the years, it has changed into an artificial cliff and a favourable destination for diving. Photography enthusiasts can find the inner sceneries of the ship charming to be a subject for their cameras.

Clark Rock Diving

Clark Rock Diving

Satisfy your curiosity about diving in Clark Rock waters. The reefs there are brighten by a beacon which has made the location favourable for diving. It is worth mentioning that Clark Rock is a fantastic place to take pictures for your journey's album. Also, you may have the chance to observe wildlife, whether in waters or on land.

Camping in Deep Bay RV Park

Camping in Deep Bay RV Park

Despite its name, if you favour it, you can do tent camping with a sea view right in the center of Vancouver Island. one of the most significant fishing camps, Deep Bay s full of surprises for anglers. Not to mention that if you visit, you can observe various fantastic wildlife there. So, put your hesitates aside, and plan to visit Camping in Deep Bay RV Park this weekend.

Port Renfrew Whale Watching

Port Renfrew Whale Watching

Enjoy discovering the best spots for whale watching on Vancouver Island, starting from Port Renfrew, in which chances are high to gaze upon these majestic sea creatures. Adventure awaits in Port Renfrew, and you can capture the pictures of the whales and the memory of it aside. While fishing around Port Renfrew, whales during their movements and diving or spouting near there might be observable.

Solo Travel Guide: 3 Days in Victoria, BC

Day 1: Downtown Victoria – Food Tour & Exploration

Start your trip in downtown Victoria with a food tour, museum visit, park stroll, and a delightful Italian dinner—all perfect for things to do alone in Victoria.

Morning: Downtown Victoria Food Tour

  • What: A guided food tour visiting 6–7 eateries.

  • Cost: Approximately $50 CAD (estimated based on typical food tour prices).

  • Details: You can kick off your first day with this tour to sample local cuisine, learn about Victoria’s history, and gather tips for your trip. The focus is on small, hidden-gem shops rather than upscale restaurants.

  • Stops & Dining:

    • Onigiri Shop: You can enjoy a roasted garlic and sesame onigiri (~$5–10 CAD), a triangular rice ball wrapped in seaweed. You might even meet the shop’s pet Frenchie, Moochi, and find it becomes one of your favorites.

    • Uma: Savor a chicken tinga taco on a corn tortilla (~$5–10 CAD), made with stone-ground corn via nixtamalization. You’ll likely find it pretty good.

    • Dumpling Shop: End with pork belly dumplings with chili sauce (~$5–10 CAD) at a brewery. You might agree they’re the best dumplings you’ve ever had, with a soft interior and crispy exterior.

    • Other Stops: Visit 3–4 additional unnamed eateries where you can taste a variety of local foods.

  • Impressions: You’ll find it a lot of fun, appreciating the guide’s knowledge and the chance to discover unique spots.

  • Recommendation: Book this food tour early to shape your itinerary and meet fellow travelers—it’s perfect for solo adventurers.

Afternoon: Royal British Columbia Museum

  • What: Self-guided museum visit.

  • Cost: ~$30 CAD.

  • Details: You can explore exhibits like an abandoned town setup and the Grand Hotel display, enjoying the immersive experience even if you don’t read much history.

  • Impressions: You might find it turns out a lot better than you thought.

  • Recommendation: Definitely worth doing even if you’re not a big museum person. Exit through the Thunderbird totem pole area for a cool bonus sight.

Late Afternoon: Beacon Hill Park

  • What: Casual park exploration.

  • Cost: Free.

  • Details: You can wander the park, spot pickleball courts, and enjoy its relaxed vibe—ideal for solo downtime or a picnic.

  • Impressions: A peaceful stop where you might hear the sweet ping of pickleballs.

  • Recommendation: Check out the pickleball courts if you’re into active relaxation.

Evening: Dinner at Il Terrazzo

  • What: Italian dinner at Il Terrazzo (pronounced “Il Tazzo”).

  • Cost: Likely $20–40 CAD for a solo meal (estimated).

  • Details: You can take a water taxi to Chinatown, eat at the bar, and enjoy excellent service. Afterward, stroll by the lit-up Parliament Building.

  • Impressions: You’ll find the dinner excellent and highly recommendable, especially after a day of walking.

  • Recommendation: Sit at the bar for a solo-friendly dining experience.

Day 1 Highlights

  • Total Cost: ~$110–150 CAD (food tour, museum, dinner).

  • Vibe: A perfect mix of food, culture, and relaxation in a very walkable city that feels like a small town.

Your Adventure Starts with Vancouver Island Tours

Fly Fishing Tour on Vancouver Island

Fly-Fishing Paradise on the Gold River
Group
Campbell River
Gold River BC
from 1,400
1 day
Fly Fishing Tour on Vancouver Island

Vancouver Island Fishing Charters Tour

One-Day Chinook Salmon & Halibut Adventure Tour
Group
Victoria
Sooke
from 1,140
2 days and one night
Vancouver Island Fishing Charters Tour

5-Day Vancouver Island Tour Package

Coastal Wonders & Wildlife Adventure
Group
Victoria
from 700
5 days and 4 nights
5-Day Vancouver Island Tour Package

Black Bear Tracking & Salmon Run Adventure Tour

5-Day Black Bear Tracking Adventure on Vancouver Island
Group
Nanaimo
Nanaimo
from 1,135
5 days and 4 nights
Black Bear Tracking & Salmon Run Adventure Tour

Ultimate 7-Day Vancouver Island Escape Tour

Wildlife, Beaches & Coastal Adventure
Group
Victoria
Victoria
from 1,813
7 days and 6 nights
Ultimate 7-Day Vancouver Island Escape Tour

Vancouver Island Getaway Tour

5-Day Tour from Victoria to Tofino with Nanaimo
Group
Victoria
Vancouver Island
from 2,100
6 days and 5 nights
Vancouver Island Getaway Tour

3 Day Wildlife Tracking & Whale Watching Tour

Salish Sea Wildlife Tracking & Whale Watching Adventure
Group
Victoria
from 550
3 days and 2 nights
3 Day Wildlife Tracking & Whale Watching Tour

Victoria Kayak Fishing Adventure Tour

Explore Inner Harbour & Catch Inshore Fish
Group
Victoria
Victoria
from 1,000
2 days and one night
Victoria Kayak Fishing Adventure Tour

Port Renfrew Bottom Fishing Tour

Guided Fishing Adventure Tour on Port Renfrew Vancouver Island
Group
Victoria
Port Renfrew
from 1,475
3 days and 2 nights
Port Renfrew Bottom Fishing Tour

Vancouver Island Wildlife watching Tour

Explore Whales, Bears & Coastal Rainforests
Group
Victoria
Tofino
from 750
3 nights and 4 days
Vancouver Island Wildlife watching  Tour

7-Day Vancouver Island Wildlife Watching Adventure Tour

Your 7-Day Wildlife Watching Escape
Group
Victoria
Vancouver Island
from 2,310
7 days and 6 nights
7-Day Vancouver Island Wildlife Watching Adventure Tour

A 3 Day Whale Watching Tour On Vancouver Island

Your three Day Victoria Whale Watching Getaway on Vancouver Island
Group
Victoria
Victoria
from 1,138
3 days and 2 night
 A 3 Day Whale Watching Tour On Vancouver Island

4-Day Wildlife Watching on Vancouver Island

Pacific Rim & Clayoquot Sound Adventure
Group
Nanaimo
Tofino
from 1,897
4 days and 3 nights
4-Day Wildlife Watching on Vancouver Island

Ultimate Vancouver Island Wildlife Experience

6-day Black Bear Wildlife Adventure Tour
Group
Nanaimo
Vancouver Island
from 1,950
6 days and 5 nights
Ultimate Vancouver Island Wildlife Experience

Activity/Stop

Estimated Cost (CAD)

Food Tour

$50

Onigiri, Taco, Dumplings

$15–30

Royal BC Museum

$30

Il Terrazzo Dinner

$20–40

Malahat Skywalk

$38

Butchart Gardens

$48

Car Rental (1 day)

$50–70

Ferry (Round-Trip)

$40

E-Bike Rental

$20–40

Pizza (Port Angeles)

$10–15

Accommodation (3 nights)

$300–600

Total Trip Cost

~$621–901

Activities and Experiences

Victoria offers a wealth of activities for solo travel in Victoria, BC, from outdoor adventures to cultural immersion.

Outdoor Pursuits

• Kayaking: Paddle the Inner Harbour with Ocean River Sports ($40 CAD/2 hours). “It’s a peaceful way to explore solo,” said a traveler.
• Hiking: Mount Douglas Park’s trails offer panoramic views, accessible by bus. Elk Bay, a free camping spot, is “so beautiful… you have got to come here”.
• Whale Watching: Join tours from the harbour ($120 CAD) to spot orcas. Book via Prince of Whales.

More

Less

Cultural Immersion

Indigenous Heritage: Explore Lekwungen history at the Royal BC Museum or through guided tours by Songhees Nation. “The totem pole area is pretty cool,” a traveler shared.
High Tea: Indulge at the Fairmont Empress ($95 CAD). “It’s a solo-friendly treat,” noted a visitor .
Festivals: The Victoria Fringe Festival (August) and Symphony Splash (summer) are perfect for victoria christmas solo traveler vibes. Check Tourism Victoria for events.

More

Less

Culinary Tours

Food Tours: A Taste of Victoria Food Tours (~$50 CAD) visits spots like an onigiri shop and dumpling shop. “The best dumplings I’ve ever had,” raved a traveler.
Craft Breweries: Sample beers at Phillips Brewing ($10 CAD/flight).
Markets: Moss Street Market offers affordable eats (~$5–10 CAD).

More

Less

Aspect

Tips

General Safety

Use hostel lockers, stay aware in crowds.

Nighttime

Stick to well-lit areas like Government Street. Use SafeWalk.

Wildlife

Avoid feeding deer or seals in parks like Beacon Hill.

Emergency

Dial 911. Save Victoria Police (250-995-7654) and carry travel insurance.

What you Can Expect to See Near Victoria

Tahsis

Tahsis

Tahsis is an accessway to many hiking trails. This village municipality is situated at the top of the steep-sided Tahsis Inlet and is surrounded by breathtaking wilderness and abundant wildlife. Some of the best water activities like ocean kayaking, surfing, windsurfing, recreational fishing or sport fishing, scuba diving, and kiteboarding are popular.

Sutton Range

Sutton Range

The Sutton Range is a group of mountains and a subrange of the Vancouver Island Ranges that form the greater Insular Mountains. The amazing rock formation and alpine scale make the mountains within the range perfect for climbing. While you're atop Sutton Peak, Victoria Peak, Warden Peak, and mainland coast mountains are within your sight.

Sophia Range

Sophia Range

The Sophia Range is a low small group of mountains on Nootka Island. Visiting the range would be fascinating overlooking inlets. The spectacular sights of the hills wrapped in trees ornamented with beautiful wildlife and birds are amazing while ascending. The range and the nearby park are a wealth of outdoor activities as paddling, fishing, and wildlife viewing.

Artlish Caves

Artlish Caves

As it is said, "A river cuts through rock, not because of its power, but because of its persistence." Did you know it takes a long process for a cave to be created? Artlish Caves is no exception. It is the largest active river cave in Canada, and the running water is why these series of caves were carved out from the ground, which is still happening. While you are inside the caves, sharpen your eyes to find bats, spiders, and other creatures in the darkness.

Coral Cave

Coral Cave

If you desire to search for hidden parts of nature to discover exciting facts, Coral Cave is a suitable option. Before stepping into it, you need to have caving skills. The beauty of the cave is doubled by the stunning rainforest that surrounded the entrance. While you are inside, you may see the flooded parts of the cave. Let's get into it to find more and realize the time effect for thousands or millions of years.

Thanksgiving Cave

Thanksgiving Cave

Devote more time, get a challenging goal for yourself, and pack your equipment. It is time to face the longest and deepest cave on Vancouver Island, Thanksgiving Cave. Caving inside this mostly tight and beautiful cave is not a beginner's suitable exploration, but for an expert caver, the adventurers' rush worth any trouble. If you are a beginner, don't worry. Tahsis is the caving capital of Canada, so you have different chances nearby.

Upana Caves

Upana Caves

Going deep into the forest is worthy enough to visit the stunning Upana Caves. Listen to the sound of a river passing by and detect several entrances with the famous one behind the spectacular Upana Caves Waterfall. Inside entrances, you may find birds' nests. Watch the evidence of years of existence by holes like the one in cheese. The stunning galleries and passages you'll explore while going down would be incredible.

Genevieve Range

Genevieve Range

The Genevieve Range offers a fascinating tour within Nootka Island with spectacular sights for mountaineers. The range's area is a remote paradise for those seeking peace and seclusion. While ascending peaks, the range allows breath-taking sights of the ocean, enormous trees below your feet covering hills along with lakes and creeks dotted the area and plenty of wildlife.

Haihte Range

Haihte Range

The Haihte Range overlooking Tahsis and Zeballos is home to some of the largest remaining glaciers on Vancouver Island. It experiences many cloudy days due to being close to the coast. The high terrain, including long aesthetic lines, is perfect for skiing at the lower glacier shelves, and visitors would enjoy excellent alpine climbing at jagged spires along the main ridge.

Budgeting and Costs

Victoria suits cheap getaways with smart planning.

Expense

Cost (CAD)

Budget Tips

Hostel

$35–60/night

Book via Hostelworld.

Meals

$15–40/day

Shop at Moss Street Market.

Transit

$5/day

Use BC Transit day pass.

Activities

$27–120

Mix free parks with paid tours.

Profile Picture

Alireza Moghimehfar

2025 February 19

Festivals & Events: Don't Miss Out!

What Do You Think about Solo Travelling in Victoria, BC