The cruise ships pull into the harbor, guest march into the pick up area for the double deck English buses, taxis, and shuttles to take them for $8.00 or so into the beautiful city of Victoria.  Located on the West Coast of Canada, with its fascinating harbor, is just the place for a couple of hours walk – even for the casual walker – or a full day (or more) to see all the places I have suggested below.  A night ride in the horse drawn carriage is an excellent                                                                      choice.

Our ship, the Oosterdam - on our way back from Alaska, docked late in the evening and we had a couple of hours to visit the lovely city at night. Oosterdam is an "Editor's Choice" cruise ship!

“Whether it's 18-holes of golf in a pristine setting or a soothing aromatic massage with essential oils, this luxury chateau-style island resort offers the perfect escape from the stresses of modern life. From exhilarating ocean-bound whale watching safaris, world-class cultural exhibits and mouth-watering local cuisine, to scenic garden and winery tours, you will be awestruck by the countless experiences Victoria and the

Fairmont Empress Hotel have to offer!” .

“A walk along Wharf Street in the heart of Old Town provides a look at many examples of Victorian architecture. Despite a fire in 1910 which ravaged the city core, many fine buildings remain and many restorations are evident. There are many cultural attractions throughout the city that can be accessed on foot or by tour bus from in front of the Fairmont Empress Hotel.  Stroll the famous Inner Harbor and visit the Victoria Marine Adventure Centre where you can access a wide variety of marine adventure services. Float plane charters as well as regular scheduled flights depart from the same area.  Amble along Wharf Street into Old Town Victoria. The Maritime Museum of British Columbia is housed in the historic 1889 Provincial Law Courts building situated in Bastion Square. This is where the province's Chief Justice Matthew Ballie Begbie, "The Hanging Judge," once handed down his sentences in the paneled courtroom. As you enter the galleries your eye will catch the lacy ornamental grill work of the caged elevator. Considered the oldest operating elevator in the country - it remains a must see on your visit. Beautiful woodwork decorates the public spaces including California redwood, walnut, cedar, and oak. The vaulted ceilings and elegant cornices provide an appropriate setting for the visitor's journey back through history.  China Town is an excellent place to view some of Victoria's diverse culture.

“Board an authentic double-decker bus (Gray Line Tours) for a tour of the city or a trip to the Butchart Gardens. In the same general area is the Dominion Astrophysical Observatory. The observatory also includes a new 7000 square foot interpretive centre called the Centre of the Universe. Victoria Butterfly Gardens is located nearby and is always a hit with children and adults alike.

Victoria's mild climate makes outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and golf a year round activity. The game of cricket has been played here since 1858, and today over 90 teams are active in the area. A stroll down to the cricket field at Beacon Hill Park will introduce you to the finer points of the game. There are many parks in the city with Beacon Hill Park being the most popular. With over 184 acres, Beacon Hill not only provides splendid views of the ocean, but also one may visit the petting zoo, a popular place to take the kids. Close by is the duck pond with its assortment of resident waterfowl.

Visit the greatest little show on earth - Miniature World, located in the Fairmont Empress Hotel. See the worlds smallest operational sawmill as well as hundreds of other attractions in miniature.

Rub shoulders with the rich, the famous, and the dead at The Royal London Wax Museum situated beside the Inner Harbor in front of the Parliament buildings. Discover for yourself who is real and who isn't! Descend into a world beneath the surface of the Inner Harbor at the undersea gardens. See the live diving shows in the undersea theatre attractions.

The Parliament Buildings:  This is the place to start.  There they stand with their granite and slate forming the base for the gilded statue of Captain Vancouver.  Just in front of the Royal British Columbia Museum is Thunderbird Park – giving you two more places to visit on your walk!  Two of the older structures of the city are also located in the area – St. Anne’s Schoolhouse and a dwelling of one of the early doctors of the city – John Sebastian Helmcken (1852). 

The Crystal Garden, of 731 Douglas Street, houses restaurant, stores, and various shops.  The famed Empress Hotel of 721 Government Street is not far away and awaiting your presence at High Tea.  “The beauty of this turn-of-the-century building is certainly worthy of your time and visit!  Rising regally on the banks of Victoria's spectacular Inner Harbor, The Fairmont Empress showcases the spirit and energy of Vancouver Island in grand style. Lovingly restored to her turn-of-the-century beauty, The Fairmont Empress captures the grandeur and elegance of a bygone era, while her facilities and services meet the needs of today's traveler”.    “In the heart of this romantic setting, nestled within Victoria's Inner Harbor, the world famous Fairmont Empress awaits you. The classic Fairmont rooms are furnished in traditional elegant décor. Each guest room can accommodate up to four people. All rooms have a cozy sitting area with two armchairs, some with ample space to accommodate a crib or rollaway. The hotel is minutes to fine dining, popular shopping, and entertainment.  The Fairmont Empress features 477 luxuriously appointed guest rooms and suites, with magnificent views of the city, courtyard, or spectacular Inner Harbor. With a selection of unique guest room sizes and categories to suit every taste, this landmark Fairmont property is a tribute to classic elegance.   The beautifully renovated Fairmont Gold floor features a private lounge with lavish continental breakfast, honor bar and evening hors d'oeuvres, complimented by an attentive concierge team, executive boardroom and High Speed Internet access designed to meet the needs of the most discerning corporate or leisure traveler.  The Fairmont Empress also features eight guest rooms enhanced specifically for guests with special needs.” 

For dining, places to visit in Victoria, things to do.

Happy Traveling