One Day in Victoria, BC: A Perfect Last Stop on Your Alaska Cruise
When your Alaska cruise itinerary wraps up with a day in Victoria, BC, consider yourself lucky. This picturesque city is like the cherry on top of an epic sundae—a little bit of everything delightful packed into a single, memorable day. With its quaint charm, lush gardens, and plenty of seafood to devour, you’ll leave wondering why you didn’t plan for more time.
Here’s how to make the most of your one day in Victoria, whether you’re sprinting off the ship or taking your sweet time to disembark.
Morning: Start with Butchart Gardens—Nature’s Eye Candy
First things first: Butchart Gardens is a non-negotiable. Trust me, you don’t want to miss this floral wonderland. Getting there from the cruise port is simple—you can hop on a shuttle or take a cab, and the drive itself is a scenic appetizer for the main course. Consider booking a guided tour to Butchart Gardens to save time and make the trip even easier.
Once there, stroll through the Sunken Garden and marvel at how even plants can outshine you on your best day. Don’t miss the Japanese Garden for its zen vibes or the Rose Garden if you’re in the mood to inhale deeply and dramatically declare, “Ah, the scent of victory!”
Pro tip: Arrive early to beat the crowds and snag a coffee or tea from their on-site café to fuel your floral wanderings. You’ll thank me when you’re not stuck in a line wondering if it’s appropriate to elbow someone for a photo op.
Midday: Wander the Inner Harbour & Fisherman’s Wharf
After your garden adventure, head back toward Victoria’s iconic Inner Harbour. This is the heart of the city and where you’ll find photo opportunities galore—think postcard-worthy shots of the Parliament Buildings and the Fairmont Empress Hotel. If you’re lucky, you might even spot a street performer or two, adding some entertainment to your leisurely stroll.
Feeling peckish? Make your way to Fisherman’s Wharf for lunch. This colorful, floating village is packed with charming food stands serving up fresh seafood. Grab some fish and chips or a plate of prawns and find a spot to people-watch—or seal-watch, if the locals (both human and marine) decide to make an appearance.
Bonus: If museums are your jam, the Royal BC Museum is right nearby. You can pre-book your Royal BC Museum tickets to skip the lines and dive right into history.
Afternoon: Shopping & Sweet Treats Downtown
Victoria’s downtown is compact and walkable, so you can window-shop to your heart’s content without fear of blisters or getting lost. Start on Government Street, where you’ll find an assortment of boutiques and souvenir shops. Be sure to pop into Munro’s Books—a stunning, historic bookshop that’s equal parts literary haven and Instagram backdrop.
If you’ve got a sweet tooth, Rogers’ Chocolates is a must-visit. Their Victoria Creams are legendary, and honestly, you’re doing yourself a disservice if you don’t pick up at least one (or ten). You can also order their treats online through this link to relive your Victoria memories back home.
Evening: Beacon Hill Park & a Sunset Farewell
As your day winds down, make your way to Beacon Hill Park. This sprawling green space is the perfect spot to stretch your legs, take in some fresh air, and maybe even spot a peacock or two (because why not?). Don’t forget to check out the iconic Totem Poles while you’re there.
For the grand finale, head to the Dallas Road waterfront to watch the sunset. The views of the water and distant mountains are pure magic, and it’s a peaceful way to wrap up your time in this charming city before heading back to your cruise ship. Book a private sunset walking tour for an extra special experience.
Practical Tips for Your Day in Victoria
Pro Tips
Plan your route: Time flies when you’re having fun, so prioritize your must-sees and leave some wiggle room for spontaneous discoveries.
Pack layers: Victoria’s weather can be unpredictable. A light jacket and comfy shoes are your best friends. Check out this travel jacket with hidden pockets for both style and functionality.
Transportation: Most attractions are walkable from the port, but taxis and shuttles are readily available for spots like Butchart Gardens.
Budget for fun: Between entrance fees, food, and souvenirs, you’ll want to set aside a little extra cash. (Chocolates count as a souvenir, right?)
Conclusion: Victoria’s Day Trip Magic
While your Alaska cruise may have been the main event, Victoria is the charming encore you didn’t know you needed. From stunning gardens to delicious seafood and everything in between, this city packs a lot of magic into just one day. So go ahead, soak it all in, and let Victoria leave you with a smile as you sail off into the sunset.
