Victoria Senior Travel Guide

Victoria is known for its charming historic architecture, lush gardens, and beautiful natural scenery. When you visit Victoria, expect to be blown away by its many outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and delicious food. If you’re a senior citizen visiting Victoria for the first time, then here are some of the things you need to know before starting your journey: 

Why Visit Victoria as a Senior Citizen?

Victoria, located on Vancouver Island in British Columbia, is a beautiful and accessible destination for senior travelers. It is also known by the name “Garden City.” It’s a highly walkable city and you can admire and enjoy the charm of the city while taking a stroll. You can also get discounts as a senior citizen on public transport and some attractions offer discounts as well. So why wait and contemplate when you can enjoy the city and its beautiful attractions? 

From historical buildings along Government Street to the world-renowned Butchart Gardens, the city offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. Take in ocean views along the Strait of Juan de Fuca, or enjoy a leisurely stroll through Beacon Hill Park and the nearby Victoria Butterfly Gardens.

For those looking to explore the city's rich history, a walk down Johnson Street or a visit to the Empress Hotel is a must. Victoria, BC, is known for its charming downtown area, where you can explore local shops, dine in cozy cafés, and enjoy afternoon tea. The Victoria Bug Zoo is another fun stop for those interested in nature, while the nearby Victoria Public gardens and rest stops provide a relaxing way to take in the sights.

Seniors can also enjoy walking tours that highlight the area's cultural and artistic heritage, including the legacy of famous artist Emily Carr. With its mild climate, accessible attractions, and picturesque surroundings, Victoria on Vancouver Island is an ideal getaway for senior travelers looking to enjoy a blend of natural beauty, history, and culture.

Top Things to Do in Victoria for Seniors and Older Adults

Beacon Hill Park

This is one of the most beautiful parks in Victoria with tons of water features, lovely landscapes, well-maintained grounds, etc. You will find many peacocks, ducks, and geese wandering around the park, which are marvelous to look at. If you’re visiting the park during fall, you’ll love the beautiful fall foliage with various colors of red, orange, and yellow. And during springtime, the park is filled with colorful flowers. If you’ve got children with you, there’s also a playground area. With that, you’ll find a petting zoo, a cricket field, a putting Green, etc. The Park is within walking distance of the downtown area, so if you’re staying close by definitely pay a visit.

Inner Harbor

Inner Harbor is Victoria BC’s tourist neighborhood and is considered one of the most beautiful harbors in the world. Originally the Harbor was used by the indigenous peoples and has a rich history. The beautiful waterfront patch is home to many restaurants, shops, and recreational activities—and is surrounded by Parliament buildings and the Empress Hotel. You can enjoy a very peaceful walk around the Harbor and it’s mostly flat with very neat paths. During warmer months, it hosts various festivals and events. With that, it also offers Victoria boat tours, whale watching, and eco-tourism activities.

Fisherman’s Wharf

Fisherman’s Wharf is a hidden gem that is just around the corner from Inner Harbor. It’s a small area with lots of food places, shops, and beautiful floating homes. Despite it being a lifeless area, the place still has so much potential and is very beautiful. You will also find many water taxis going back and forth all day long. You can simply walk around and enjoy the activity on the Harbor.

Craigdarroch Castle

A gorgeous Victorian mansion that was built during the 1890s by a Canadian industrialist. It features lots of stained glass windows, wood artifacts, and wooden floors furnished in a period style. Throughout the years, the castle underwent many changes and all the changes are recorded properly and are on written tablets in the rooms. The castle is huge so you can spend at least 2 hours there and it also features a garden in front. Also note that the castle has many stairs with 4 levels so those with mobility issues can only explore certain areas.

Legislative Assembly of BC

The tour of parliament buildings is a must-do and you can also find free guided tours on weekdays all year long. During the summer months, the offer is valid for 7 days a week. You can learn a lot about the Legislative Assembly of British Columbia and the building is gorgeous inside out. If you want to explore this building by yourself then there are many little booklets in several languages for you to catch up.

And the gift shop here is amazing for bringing souvenirs—they sell really cheap postcards too. Lastly, there is also a beautiful garden tucked behind the building which is a perfect retreat from the usual routine. The garden is filled with colorful flowers and has lush greenery all over.

Miniature World

Although it is a children’s museum, it can be enjoyed by people of all ages. It features over 85 displays and they are very detailed and entertaining. The dioramas are bigger than you can anticipate and the attention to detail is amazing. All the displays here have different themes like history, cinema productions, imaginative fantasy, etc.

Also, you will find moving parts and interactive scale trains and vehicles. Other than these, the people on the battlefield, city, and country are wearing period clothing and are caught in the act of daily life in such detail. It’s a must-visit and a very fun place. You can find benches here to sit on. And can easily spend 30 minutes to around 2 hours here.

Butchart Gardens

Butchart Gardens is home to over 900 different kinds of plants that are spread across various gardens on 55 acres of land. The themes of each garden are very unique. And the gardens are still owned by the same family who created them originally. It used to be a limestone quarry and then Jennie Butchart transformed it into a sunken garden.

Over the years, the garden has gone through so many changes but it has grown even prettier. It features a gorgeous rose garden, outdoor Evening Entertainment, Saturday firework shows, and so much more. During summer, it has lots of tulips, hyacinths, and daffodils that make the garden so colorful. The garden is huge so plan ahead to actually spend some time here. The admission fee is also fairly reasonable.

Enjoy a Tour of Chinatown

Chinatown in Victoria is a vibrant and beautiful neighborhood, offering so much to see and enjoy. It’s brimming with life, from its quaint shops to the many unique eateries lining the streets. The area captures the essence of history and culture, making it a must-visit for anyone exploring the city.

Among the top tourist sights in Chinatown is the iconic Gate of Harmonious Interest, a stunning entrance that marks the historic district. Just a short walk away, you’ll also find the Chinese Language School, a place of cultural significance that showcases the rich heritage of the area.

Another gem of Chinatown is Fan Tan Alley, the narrowest street in Canada, and a spot that is both glorious and colorful. Once a hub for gambling and drinking, it has since transformed into a vibrant area filled with art, boutiques, and cafes. Despite its colorful past, Fan Tan Alley now stands as a symbol of Chinatown’s resilience and cultural importance, making it a fascinating place to explore and photograph. Whether you're looking to shop, learn, or simply enjoy the atmosphere, Chinatown offers a unique experience that captures the heart of Victoria.

Whale Watching

Victoria is mostly famous for whale watching, with the peak seasons typically falling during the summer months, from April to November. This is when the waters off the coast are teeming with marine life, and whale sightings are at their best.

To experience this, you can book a boat tour, where an expert guide will not only help you spot the whales but also share fascinating facts about these incredible creatures. The guides are incredibly knowledgeable, making the experience both educational and exciting.

If you're lucky, you might even spot a humpback whale, which is a rare and truly spectacular sight. These majestic giants are often harder to find, but with the right timing and conditions, your chances of encountering one are higher.

For those visiting during the summer months, the odds of spotting a whale are about 95%, making it a must-do activity if you’re in Victoria during this time. Whether it’s orcas, humpbacks, or gray whales, the thrill of seeing these magnificent animals in their natural habitat is an unforgettable experience.

Enjoy a Horse-Drawn Carriage Ride

Who doesn’t love the charm of a horse-drawn carriage ride? If you're visiting Victoria as a couple, it's a perfect way to spend some quiet, peaceful time together. The gentle clip-clop of the horses’ hooves, combined with the scenic surroundings, makes for an unforgettable experience.

Even if you're exploring the city solo, this is still something you shouldn’t miss. The ride gives you a unique perspective of Victoria, allowing you to take in the beauty of its historic streets, lush gardens, and picturesque landmarks. It's a slow, peaceful way to soak in the sights.

The experience is not only special for couples but also for families. It’s a memorable outing that you can cherish with loved ones, as the carriage ride takes you past some of the city’s most iconic attractions. Whether it's the stunning architecture, vibrant parks, or charming streets, there’s something magical about seeing it all from the comfort of a horse-drawn carriage.

Malahat Skywalk

Although the Malahat Skywalk is not located in Victoria, it is just a short 35-minute drive away from the city, situated on Vancouver Island. If you're planning to explore the region, this is definitely a must-see spot to add to your itinerary.

The highlight of the Malahat Skywalk is its spiraled 10-story tower, which stands 250 meters above sea level. From the top, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking 360-degree views of Vancouver Island's lush forests, majestic mountains, and the surrounding islands. It's a fantastic spot to take in the natural beauty of the area from a unique perspective.

One of the standout features of the Skywalk is its accessibility. The pathway leading up to the viewing area is wheelchair-friendly, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the stunning vistas. Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast or simply looking for a peaceful moment in nature, the Malahat Skywalk offers a memorable experience for all visitors.

Guided Tours for Seniors in Victoria

If you’re visiting Victoria, BC for the first time, then you will like guided tours with See Sight Tours. Their Best of Victoria, BC with Malahat Skywalk, Butchart Gardens features a visit to the Butchart Gardens, Parliament Buildings, the Malahat Skywalk, and more. Your local guide will pick you up from your location and from there you can relax in the complimentary vehicles.

The first stop will be the Malahat Skywalk, a magnificent 10-story spiral tower. Next, you will be taken to the ferry terminal for the second stop at the Butchart Gardens. The Butchart Gardens are known for their beauty all around the world. After this, you’ll head back to Victoria, and on your way, you’ll be able to marvel at Breakwater Lighthouse, Beacon Hill Park, Craigdarroch Castle, etc. As the tour comes to an end, your guide will provide you with more information about the landmarks according to the local’s point of view. Then you’ll be dropped off at your designated location.

If you want to experience the city in its full glory, then a night tour will be perfect for you. Book their Scenic Victoria Small Group Night Tour with Boat and Butchart Gardens. Enjoy the illuminated city during the night on a narrated drive through downtown. After that, you can enjoy a boat excursion with Coastal waters. After that, the Butchart Gardens will be the next stop that comes alive in a unique way at night time with beautiful lighting all around. After that, you’ll be driven back to your destination as you pass through the illuminated landmarks of the city.

Victoria Travel Cost for Senior Citizens

If you’re traveling to Victoria from Vancouver via ferry, then many of them offer discounts for senior citizens who are 65+. Some of the airlines also offer discounts for the elderly, but it also depends on the time of the booking. The cost while you’re staying in Victoria can vary. For accommodations, get ready to spend at least $100-$200 for mid-range hotels. There are many motels and inns for a budget-friendly stay. Airbnb is also a great option, though they don’t give discounts for senior citizens. For a luxurious stay, The Fairmont Express is a good option and they also give some discounts.

For traveling around, Victoria has extensive bus services that you can avail and they cover most of the routes. You can use public transit and the fare is less for senior citizens ($2.50) as compared to the regular fare. For food, expect around $15-20 for regular meals per head. For various attractions, some of the parks do not have entry fees, so you can save a lot with that. Lastly, if you’re on a budget then try to visit during off-seasons such as fall and winter to save money.

Wheelchair Accessible Attractions in Victoria

Victoria has many wheelchair-friendly destinations that you can enjoy. Beacon Hill Park is an excellent oasis with many wildlife and greenery to see. The park is wheelchair accessible and has well-maintained grounds. Inner Harbor is another great destination for taking in the scenic views and the paths here are very easy to navigate and are mostly flat.

Fisherman’s Wharf is another hidden gem that is just across the Inner Harbor and has very nice walkable paths. The floating colorful houses are a thing of beauty. Plus you can find many restaurants, shops, and eateries here. Watch the activity on the Harbor and water taxis going by.

Butchart Gardens is a horticulture gem that is famous around the world. The gardens are beautiful with different varieties of plants and flowers. It’s a perfect retreat from the city and your senses will be filled with fragrance and joy here.

Enjoy a boat tour and with that whale watching is something you will really enjoy. Spot different kinds of whales including humpback, orca, minke, and more. You might spot sea lions too. It’s better to get a guided tour for whale watching because a local can give you tips and information about the whales. And he will also let you know about the best time to spot them.

Malahat Skywalk is designed with accessibility in mind. It’s not in Victoria but just a 35-minutes drive away and gives amazing views of the forests and islands. When you’re visiting Victoria, make sure to plan for this destination because it’s worth a trip.

Wrapping Up:

To sum up everything, Victoria is a perfect destination for senior citizens with its beautiful views and many outdoor activities. Enjoy whale watching or stroll through the Butchart Gardens, it has everything. Pack your bags now or you’ll simply be missing out on all the amazing outdoor adventures.