Victoria is a cultural city known for its colonial buildings and public parks. In this travel cost guide, we'll cover everything you need to know to plan your travel budget and have an amazing trip without spending too much. This guide includes average trip costs from previous travelers, typical hotel prices, food and dining costs, entertainment and sightseeing prices, and information about transportation.
How much does it cost to travel to Victoria?
You should plan to spend around $199 (CA$277) per day on your vacation in Victoria. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.
Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:
- $46 (CA$64) on meals
- $36 (CA$51) on local transportation
- $224 (CA$311) on hotels
A one week trip to Victoria for two people costs, on average, $2,784 (CA$3,878). This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.
-
One Week
Per person
$1,392
CA$1,939
-
2 Weeks
Per person
$2,784
CA$3,878
-
One Month
Per person
$5,965
CA$8,310
-
One Week
For a couple
$2,784
CA$3,878
-
2 Weeks
For a couple
$5,567
CA$7,756
-
One Month
For a couple
$11,930
CA$16,620
How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Victoria cost?
A one week trip to Victoria usually costs around $1,392 (CA$1,939) for one person and $2,784 (CA$3,878) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
A two week trip to Victoria on average costs around $2,784 (CA$3,878) for one person and $5,567 (CA$7,756) for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Victoria will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.
A one month trip to Victoria on average costs around $5,965 (CA$8,310) for one person and $11,930 (CA$16,620) for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.
Is Victoria expensive to visit?
Victoria is a great city that brings in a diverse crowd of visitors, each with unique travel styles and spending behaviors. Visitors can find a range of options for accommodation from high-end luxury hotels to mid-range places to budget-friendly hostels.
You can find Victoria to be very expensive if you're not careful, but methods like eating at less expensive restaurants and enjoying the free hiking trails can help you save money.
On average, budget travelers spend $85 (CA$118) per day, mid-range travelers spend $199 (CA$277) per day, and luxury travelers spend around $456 (CA$635) per day. These costs are calculated from the expenses of previous travelers to Victoria.
Within North America, which is known to be an expensive region, Victoria is a moderately priced destination compared to other places. The overall cost of travel here is fair for the region and comparable to Roanoke or Chapel Hill.
For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Victoria Expensive?
Victoria Island, Canada
How much money do I need for a trip to Victoria?
The average Victoria trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Victoria travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Victoria cost?
Victoria on a Budget
|
Category
|
Budget
|
Mid-Range
|
Luxury
|
Accommodation 1
For 1 person in double occupancy
|
$47
(CA$66)
|
$112
(CA$156)
|
$236
(CA$329)
|
|
Local Transportation 1
|
$14
(CA$20)
|
$36
(CA$51)
|
$97
(CA$135)
|
|
Food 2
|
$18
(CA$25)
|
$46
(CA$64)
|
$120
(CA$167)
|
|
Entertainment 1
|
$19
(CA$26)
|
$45
(CA$63)
|
$96
(CA$133)
|
|
Alcohol 2
|
$3-10
(CA$5-14)
|
$8-24
(CA$11-33)
|
$16-48
(CA$22-66)
|
Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget
Having realistic expectations about your travel budget in Victoria is important. While you might think you can save money by cutting expenses, traveling comfortably requires a bit more spending for most people. Think about your favorite vacation activities and ideal travel style. Staying in a resort or comfortable hotel, along with sightseeing and dining out are generally what many people prefer. Your travel preferences will determine how much you'll end up spending on your trip.
What is a budget traveler, anyway?
You might think you're a budget traveler, but unless you're willing to sacrifice many comforts, expect to spend a lot more than the average of $85 per day that backpackers typically manage.
Younger budget travelers sometimes stick to a shoestring budget, which usually means staying in hostel dorms, eating at budget restaurants or fast food, relying on public transportation or walking, and limiting activities to free attractions.
Thankfully, Victoria is home to plenty of hostels, including Ocean Island Inn | Backpackers | Suites. In these hostels, you can find economical dorm accommodations and a fun social atmosphere, but amenities are typically limited.
Are You Considered an Average Traveler?
If you're a family or couple enjoying a vacation, you'll probably want to stay in a mid-range hotel, eat at well-liked restaurants, and check out significant museums and attractions that charge entry fees. Those traveling to Victoria often aim to see the major attractions, museums, and noteworthy landmarks. Most activities aren't free. So, you should realistically expect your daily budget to be around $199 per person, per day.
In Victoria, you'll find a broad range of hotels and vacation rentals. If traveling with companions, you can share accommodations with a partner, friend, or your children, helping to cut costs. Families will want to look for hotels and restaurants that are kid-friendly. Victoria Regent Waterfront Hotel & Suites is a fantastic option for families, and Marketa's Bed and Breakfast is also a great pick. Explore more family and couple-oriented hotels in our hotel guide for Victoria here.
Looking to Travel in Luxury?
If you're looking for a higher-end vacation filled with high-end amenities and exceptional service, plan for a daily expense of approximately $456. Staying at nicer hotels, savoring meals at top-rated restaurants, splurging on lavish outings, and utilizing taxis or private drivers in the city means you'll need a more luxurious budget. Many luxury travelers also enjoy unique experiences such as Vancouver Island Rainforest Guided Hike with Private Guide - offered by Viator.
Accommodation Budget in Victoria
Hotel prices in Victoria can really fluctuate, especially between budget and luxury options. Expect higher costs during peak summer season, when rates climb from an off-season average of $177 up to around $330. From $124 for budget options to $517 for luxury hotels, there's something for everyone. Hostels, particularly dorms, are typically cheaper. Book early or travel in the low season for better prices.
Calculated from travelers like you
The average price paid in Victoria for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $224 (CA$311). For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $112 (CA$156) per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.
Looking for a hotel in Victoria? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.
The most affordable highest rated hotels in Victoria include:
- Robert Porter House Inn Bed & Breakfast starting at $221
- Hotel Grand Pacific Victoria starting at $183
- The Oswego Hotel starting at $140
- Spinnakers Gastro Brewpub & Guesthouses starting at $192
- Fisher House Victoria Bed and Breakfast starting at $156
This family-friendly city makes Victoria a great option for traveling with kids, and you'll want to find a larger place to stay.
By avoiding the peak summer season and traveling during the low or shoulder seasons, you will be able to save on accommodation and avoid heavy tourist crowds.
Walking is a common way to explore Victoria, so look for a place right in the heart of the action. This might, however, come at a higher price.
Transportation Budget in Victoria
Unfortunately, Victoria does not provide a solid public transit network. While there are buses, it's best not to count on them because they're not particularly reliable.
Anyone who enjoys a good walk to discover their surroundings will love it here. Many of the sights are close by and easy to walk to.
Public Transit: 
(moderate)
Walkability: (great)
Calculated from travelers like you
-
On average, past travelers have spent $36 (CA$51) per person, per day, on local transportation in Victoria. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Victoria is significantly more than public transportation.
-
Transportation1
Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
$36
CA$51
Ensure that your hotel has easy parking arrangements if you're planning to drive.
A few of the typical transportation options and hotel transfers include:
- One way Scenic Seaplane transfer from Victoria to Vancouver for $260 details
- Victoria to Vancouver - Vancouver Airport (YVR) Drop Off - Coach Bus Transfer for $86 details
- Victoria to Vancouver - Coach Bus Transfer for $72 details
How much does it cost to go to Victoria? Naturally, it depends on the dates. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all airlines.
The price of renting a car in Victoria will depends on dates, the type of car, the location, and your age. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all car rental companies.
Food Budget in Victoria
The culinary scene in Victoria is pretty good, but it's not the main draw for visitors. You'll find a few standout places around the city that are definitely worth a visit. You'll find tons of fresh seafood around town. Make sure you try to the Dungeness crab, wild caught salmon, and fish chowder.
Calculated from travelers like you
-
While restaurant and meal prices in Victoria can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Victoria is $46 (CA$64) per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.
-
Food2
Meals for one day
$46
CA$64
When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Victoria is around $46 (CA$64) per person, with previous travelers spending from $18 to $120. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.
Typical meal prices in Victoria are as follows:
- Breakfast: $5 to $14
- Lunch: $7 to $18
- Dinner: $14 to $32
- Coffee: $4
- Fast Food or Street Food: $7
Dining in Victoria is an experience in and of itself. The city has the highest number of restaurants per capita in North America. You'll find no shortage of options with everything from pubs, seafood restaurants, international fare, and outdoor cafes available. Whatever your style and budget, you're likely to find something absolutely delicious and uniquely Victorian. It's a microcosm of the west coast restaurants in Canada.
If you're traveling with kids, search for restaurants that offer a children's menu. This can save you a lot of money since these dishes are usually cheaper. Keep in mind that some places may not list their kids' options, so make sure to ask the server.
Countless hotels provide breakfast as part of your stay, but some will add it as an additional fee. The price and quality can change based on the hotel. Being informed ahead of time can aid in deciding whether to budget extra funds. You might enjoy the delightful buffet offered at the hotel, or perhaps a more economical option would be a nearby bakery or cafe.
Keep a water bottle handy instead of purchasing drinks everywhere. It's also better for the environment.
When planning your tour, don't forget to check what meals are included. You might have to pay for some of your own food, which could add to your expenses.
If you're looking to experience the culinary culture in Victoria, taking a food tour or cooking class is a terrific way to do it. After all, cuisine is one of the reasons why so many people visit. Some of the best food-related activities here include:
- Hip & Hidden Chinatown + Old Town Food Tour Victoria for $87 details
- Chinatown and Old Town Food Tour with Tastings for $85 details
- Sip, Savor, Stroll Evening Food Tour for $142 details
Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Victoria
Tourists can't resist Victoria, especially for its well-known family-friendly activities, romance, museums and attractions, and food.
Calculated from travelers like you
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Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Victoria typically cost an average of $45 (CA$63) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.
-
Entertainment1
Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
$45
CA$63
There is no shortage of sights around Victoria. There are many beautiful parks and gardens in the area, with some of the most popular and impressive being Beacon Hill Park, Butchart Gardens, and Abkhazi Gardens. If the weather isn't ideal, there are many museums around town as well. These include the British Columbia Aviation Museum, the Royal British Columbia Museum, Craigdarroch Castle Historical Museum, Miniature World, and the Victoria Bug Zoo. The Legislative Buildings are beautiful to see as well and light up at night with over 13,000 lights.
There are also some wonderful activities you can enjoy on Vancouver Island and in the city of Victoria. Some of the more popular options include whale watching, wine tasting, hiking, and boat cruises.
The city's nightlife is really centered around the downtown area where you'll find the highest concentration of bars and clubs. Taxis are usually reasonably priced, so if you can't walk to your destination, they offer a good option later at night.
Local tours that last a few hours can be a great way to explore Victoria. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:
- Victoria Chocolate Tour for $65 details
- Victoria Grapes to Grains Full Day Guided Tour for $152 details
- Guided Canopy Tour w/Transportation for $108 details
Nightlife Budget in Victoria
In terms of nightlife, Victoria has a few activities available, but it doesn't match the energy of other sought-after destinations. There are a good number of bars and pubs around town. Most offer a relaxed atmosphere where you can enjoy a cold drink in a casual setting.
Calculated from travelers like you
-
The average person spends about $16 (CA$22) on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Victoria per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.
-
Alcohol2
Drinks for one day
$16
CA$22
Sure, nightlife is part of the adventure, but cutting down on cocktails can make a surprising difference in your travel budget.
If you're out drinking at night, keep an eye on your surroundings. You could be a target for pickpockets, so it's wise to stay in a group and with people you trust.
Tasting tours and nightlife activities are very popular in Victoria. A few of the favorites from previous visitors include:
- Victoria Craft Brewery Tour for $87 details
- Victoria Wine Tour with Wine Tastings and Charcuterie for $131 details
- Cowichan Valley Premium Wine Tour for $425 details
Traveling in Victoria
Victoria, B.C., Canada
The capital city of British Columbia, Canada, Victoria is positioned near the southern edge of Vancouver Island. It's a wonderfully pleasant city and has been nicknamed the Garden City because of its vast green space and public gardens. There is a population of just over 80,000 in the city proper and almost 350,000 in the greater metropolitan area. Dating back to 1843, it's also one of the oldest cities in the Pacific Northwest. As such, it has many historic buildings and beautiful architecture. It also has the second oldest Chinatown in North America, following San Francisco's.
Victoria has a temperate climate. The winters are mild and wet while the summers are cool and dry. During the winter months the average daily high is about 46 degrees Fahrenheit and the average daily low is just under 40 degrees Fahrenheit. The summers have an average high of about 68 degrees Fahrenheit and an average low of just over 50 degrees Fahrenheit.
Neighborhoods & Around
The oldest part of Victoria is the Inner Harbour. The city spreads north and east from there, with some growth in West Victoria. The Inner Harbour is where most visitors spend most of their time. The area has impressive architecture, horse drawn carriage rides, and double decker tour buses.
Downtown Victoria, also called Old Town, is the commercial and social center of the city. It's also one of the most popular areas to visit with many museums, shops, restaurants, and old buildings.
Chinatown is interesting but small. It covers two square blocks and is the second oldest Chinatown in North America.
James Bay, Ross Bay, Rockland, and Oak Bay were the areas where aristocracy once retired. Today they're beautiful residential areas with homes that have views of the surrounding area. Fernwood is another quaint residential area with much character. It has tree lined streets, great restaurants, and boutique shops. Victoria West was once the city's industrial zone, but has become one of the city's trendiest areas for young professionals. Saanich is in route to the ferry terminal and is a suburban residential area that is a pleasant place to live.
We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.