Exploring the stunning beauty of the Pacific Northwest from Seattle to Victoria, BC and Vancouver is an exciting and adventurous journey. It offers the perfect blend of scenic beauty and exciting cultural experiences.
With its majestic mountains, stunning ocean views, and bustling cities, this trip will surely be memorable.
From the enchanting town of Victoria, BC, to the vibrant city of Vancouver, you will discover something new and exciting around every corner.
Whether you want to enjoy the region’s delicious food and drink, or relax and take in the stunning scenery, this itinerary is for you. So, grab your passport and start planning your epic journey.
Sample Itinerary from Seattle to Victoria, BC & Vancouver By plane
Victoria, British Columbia, is a scenic city on the southern tip of Vancouver Island.
It is a popular tourist destination, offering stunning views, vibrant culture, and many activities to explore.
If you’re planning this trip, flying is one of the best transportation options. It is convenient, fast, and relatively inexpensive.
Flight Times
The flight from Seattle to Victoria takes about an hour and a half.
Several airlines offer direct flights between the two cities and a few options for connecting flights.
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Airlines
The airlines that offer direct flights from Seattle to Victoria include:
- Alaska Airlines
- Delta Air Lines
- Horizon Air
Other airlines that fly this route include:
- United Airlines
- American Airlines
- Air Canada
Airports
The Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) is the closest to Seattle, and the Victoria International Airport (YYJ) is the closest to Victoria.
Prices
The flight cost from Seattle to Victoria can vary on the time of year, the day of the week, and the airline.
Prices typically range from $100 to $400 but can be higher or lower depending on availability and demand.
Where To Stay Upon Arriving In Victoria, BC
Welcome to Victoria, BC!
After your long journey, you’re sure to look for somewhere comfortable and welcoming.
From historic hotels and quaint bed and breakfasts to modern hotels and resorts, there is something to suit every budget and taste.
For a luxurious stay in Victoria
The Fairmont Empress is one of the city’s most iconic hotels.
Located right in the heart of downtown, the Fairmont Empress offers stunning views of the harbor and the Olympic Mountains.
Inside, you’ll find classic décor, spacious rooms, and a range of amenities, including a fitness center and spa.
For a more affordable option
Consider staying at the Oswego Hotel.
This boutique hotel is situated in the heart of Victoria’s Historic Inner Harbour. Inside, you’ll find modern rooms, suites, and an onsite restaurant and bar.
For a unique accommodation experience
Consider staying at a hostel. This Hostel is something that can meet basic needs for backpackers.
It offers bright, airy rooms and a variety of amenities, however, keep in mind this is not the most comfortable or best place you can stay in.
For a more traditional stay
Consider staying at one of Victoria’s numerous bed and breakfasts.
Booking.comAmante Luxury Bed & Breakfast is popular, offering comfortable luxury rooms and delicious breakfasts.
You’ll also find charming B&Bs in the nearby neighborhoods of Oak Bay and James Bay.
DAY 1: Sample Itinerary for a Drive around Victoria, BC& Vancouver
As you explore the cities and countryside, you’ll appreciate how each destination offers something unique and special.
Whether you’re looking for relaxation or an adventure, this trip is one that you won’t soon forget.
Victoria to Butchart Gardens, Victoria
- Distance: Approximately 13.5 miles (21.7 km)
- Time: Approximately 21 min
Getting to Butchart Gardens, Victoria
Start by heading north on Benvenuto Avenue, a winding road that passes through the beautiful Saanich Peninsula.
You’ll pass by several vineyards, farms, and other agricultural attractions along the way.
Next, you’ll take a right onto Ardmore Drive, and then a left onto Munn Road. Follow Munn Road until you reach West Saanich Road, and turn right.
You’ll pass by several scenic lakes and parks before arriving at the entrance to the Victoria Butterfly Gardens. The gardens are located at 1461 Benvenuto Avenue.
Exploring Butchart Gardens, Victoria
Butchart Gardens is a stunning 55-acre botanical garden and is one of the world’s most well-known gardens.
It has been a famous tourist site for over 100 years and attracts more than one million visitors yearly.
Butchart Gardens is divided into five distinct gardens, each with its unique design and plants.
These include:
- Italian Garden
- Japanese Garden
- Rose Garden
- Sunken Garden
- Mediterranean Garden
Butchart Gardens also features a variety of other attractions, including a carousel, a children’s playground, an outdoor theatre, and the Butchart Gardens Tea Room.
With its vibrant and colorful flowers, beautiful water features, and lush greenery, Butchart Gardens is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Victoria.
Butchart Gardens to Victoria Butterfly Gardens
- Distance: Approximately 1.7 miles (2.7 km)
- Time: Approximately 5 minutes
Getting to Victoria Butterfly Gardens
Start by heading north on Benvenuto Avenue, a winding road that passes through the beautiful Saanich Peninsula.
You’ll pass by several vineyards, farms, and other agricultural attractions along the way.
Next, you’ll take a right onto Ardmore Drive and then a left onto Munn Road. Follow Munn Road until you reach West Saanich Road, and turn right.
You’ll pass by several scenic lakes and parks before arriving at the entrance to the Victoria Butterfly Gardens. The gardens are located at 1461 Benvenuto Avenue.
Exploring Victoria Butterfly Gardens
Victoria Butterfly Gardens is a world-class destination for tourists and locals alike.
This beautiful botanical garden houses more than 800 species of butterflies, moths, and other insects.
The gardens are a lush, tropical paradise that features a variety of plants, trees, flowers, and shrubs that attract and support the many species of butterflies.
As you wander through the gardens, you will be able to observe the butterflies in their natural habitat and learn about their life cycle, behavior, and conservation efforts.
Victoria Butterfly Gardens also offers guided tours, educational presentations, and interactive activities.
Additionally – The garden has a gift shop with souvenirs and educational materials, a cafe and restaurant, and a butterfly conservatory. Visitors can also purchase butterfly larvae to release into the gardens.
Victoria Butterfly Gardens to Royal BC Museum
- Distance: Approximately 12.6 miles (20.2 km)
- Time: Approximately 21 minutes
Getting to Royal BC Museum
Begin by heading west on Benvenuto Ave, taking a left onto Patricia Bay Hwy/BC-17.
You will pass by the Victoria International Airport and Sidney before winding your way along the Strait of Georgia.
As you continue your journey, take in the beauty of the ocean, the lush forests, and the small towns that line the highway.
Once you reach the intersection with Highway 17 and Highway 1, take a left onto Highway 1.
This will take you over the Patricia Bay Bridge and eventually into downtown Victoria. Stay on Highway 1 until you reach Douglas Street, then take a right and continue until you reach Belleville Street.
Take a left onto Belleville Street and then take a right onto Douglas Street. Follow Douglas Street until you reach Humboldt Street, then take a right.
Continue on Humboldt Street until you reach Government Street. Take a right onto Government Street and then a left onto Belleville Street.
Follow Belleville Street until you reach Douglas Street, and turn left.
Follow Douglas Street until you reach Wharf Street, then take a right and continue until you see the Royal BC Museum on your left.
Exploring Royal BC Museum
The Royal BC Museum is historical and educational.
Visitors can expect to explore a variety of exhibits, displays, and activities that explore the history of British Columbia and its people.
The museum houses various artifacts, natural history specimens, and interactive exhibits that allow visitors to better understand the region’s history and culture.
Booking.comVisitors can learn about the cultural history of First Nations people and the development of modern British Columbia, as well as explore the province’s natural history.
The museum also offers educational programs, special events, and research opportunities.
Royal BC Museum to Inner Harbour Centre
- Distance: Approximately 0.4 miles (650m)
- Time: Approximately 3 minutes
Getting to Inner Harbour Centre
Leave the museum parking lot and start heading south on Belleville St.
After a few blocks, turn left onto Government St and continue south for a few blocks. Government St will eventually turn into Wharf St as you get nearer the Inner Harbour.
Once you reach the intersection of Wharf St and Douglas St, make a right turn and continue along Wharf St until you reach your destination.
This route will take you past the prominent Parliament Buildings, along the waterfront, and through the heart of downtown Victoria. Along the way, you can also enjoy views of the harbor and the city skyline.
Once you reach the Inner Harbour, you can take in all the sounds and sights of this popular tourist destination.
Exploring Inner Harbour Centre
Exploring Inner Harbour Centre in Victoria, BC, is a good way to experience the beauty of this stunning city.
Here, visitors can take in the gorgeous views of the harbor and the surrounding mountains while enjoying some of the many attractions and activities the area offers.
Inside the Centre, visitors can explore the Harbour Walk, a pedestrian-friendly walkway that leads to the harbor.
Visitors can also enjoy some of the great restaurants, galleries, and shops.
The Centre also offers a range of activities, such as:
- Kayaking
- Sailing
- Paddleboarding
- Whale watching
- Fishing
Inner Harbour Centre to Craigdarroch Castle
- Distance: Approximately 1.5 miles (2.4 km)
- Time: Approximately 7 minutes
Getting to Craigdarroch Castle
First, take Fort St and head south towards the intersection of Fort St and Douglas St.
Then turn left onto Douglas St and continue south until you reach Belleville St. After, turn right onto Belleville St and continue east until you reach Rockland Ave.
Turn left onto Rockland Ave and continue north until you reach the intersection of Rockland Ave and Joan Cres.
Turn right onto Joan Cres and continue east until you reach the entrance to Craigdarroch Castle.
Exploring Craigdarroch Castle
Craigdarroch Castle is a historic mansion in Victoria, British Columbia, Canada.
The castle was built in 1890 and is now a museum and tourist attraction. Visitors can explore the castle’s 39 rooms and take in the stunning picturesque of the city and ocean.
The castle is filled with beautiful Victorian-era furniture, artwork, and artifacts.
Visitors can also grasp about the history of the family and castle who lived there. The castle also offers guided tours, educational programming, and special events.
DAY 2: Spend the next day exploring the city of Vancouver
- Distance: Approximately 71.5 miles (115km)
- Time: Approximately 3 hr 1 min
From Victoria, you will take BC-17, also known as the Patricia Bay Highway, north towards Swartz Bay, BC.
This highway takes you through the picturesque Saanich Peninsula, passing by the Sidney and North Saanich communities.
Along the way, you will have the opportunity to take in the views of the ocean, the Gulf Islands, and Mount Baker in the distance.
Once you arrive at Swartz Bay, you will take the BC Ferries service to Tsawwassen, BC.
This ferry ride will take approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes, allowing you to take in some more stunning views of the Strait of Georgia and the San Juan Islands.
Once you arrive at Tsawwassen, you will take BC-17 again, this time heading south. This route will take you through Delta and Surrey before arriving in Vancouver.
Along the way, you will pass by several parks, nature reserves, and the communities of Ladner and Richmond.
Depending on traffic, the drive should take approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. Once you arrive in Vancouver, you can enjoy all the city has to offer.
Vancouver to Granville Island
- Distance: Approximately 2.2 mils (3.5 km)
- Time: Approximately 6 minutes
Getting to Granville Island
Getting to Granville Island from Vancouver via BC-99 S is a relatively easy.
From downtown Vancouver, take BC-99 S in the direction of Marine Drive.
You will cross over the Burrard Street Bridge, then stay in the left lane to take the exit onto Granville Street.
Turn left onto Granville Street and follow it until you reach West 4th Avenue. Take a left onto West 4th Avenue and follow it until you reach the entrance to Granville Island.
The entrance to Granville Island is tricky, so be sure to keep your eyes peeled.
You will see a large orange arch that says “Granville Island” above it. Take a left onto Anderson Street and follow it until you reach the public market.
Exploring Granville Island
This little island offers a variety of attractions and activities, from shopping and dining to galleries and entertainment.
Visitors can expect to see a vibrant public market full of:
- Local produce
- Handmade crafts
- Delicious food
- Art galleries
- Theatres
- Museums
The island is also home to several waterfront restaurants and cafes, perfect for a relaxing meal.
Visitors can also tour the island and take in the beautiful views of the harbor and city skyline.
Granville Island to Vancouver Aquarium
- Distance: Approximately 4.1 miles (6.6 km)
- Time: Approximately 13 minutes
Getting to Vancouver Aquarium
Getting to the Vancouver Aquarium from Granville Island is a straightforward journey along BC-99 North.
From Granville Island, take the BC-99 North on-ramp and follow the highway for approximately 10 minutes.
You will pass through a few residential neighborhoods and then enter Downtown Vancouver.
Once you reach the intersection of BC-99 and Pacific Boulevard, take a left and follow the street until you reach the Stanley Park Causeway.
The entrance to the Vancouver Aquarium is located at the end of the causeway.
Exploring Vancouver Aquarium
The aquarium is home to more than 70,000 aquatic animals, including belugas, dolphins, and sea otters.
Visitors can explore the various galleries of the aquarium, including:
- the Pacific Canada Pavilion
- the Arctic Canada Pavilion
- and the Amazon Gallery
The aquarium also features daily animal presentations and interactive experiences, such as the popular beluga whale show and the aquarium touch pool.
There is also an outdoor area with a rocky shore habitat, which visitors can explore to observe different species of sea life in their natural habitat.
Vancouver Aquarium to Stanley Park
- Distance: Approximately 1.9 miles (3.1 km)
- Time: Approximately 6 minutes
Getting to Stanley Park
Getting to Stanley Park from the Vancouver Aquarium via Stanley Park Drive and Pipeline Road is a straightforward journey.
Begin by heading east on Stanley Park Drive, which will take you over the Lions Gate Bridge and underneath the Burrard and Granville Street bridges.
Once you reach the end of Stanley Park Drive, take a left onto Pipeline Road.
This will take you past the north end of the park, past Beaver Lake and Lost Lagoon, and onto the main entrance of Stanley Park.
Follow the main road through the park to reach your desired destination.
Exploring Stanley Park
Stanley Park is a large urban park in the city and is renowned for its stunning scenery, vibrant wildlife, and recreational activities.
Visitors can explore the park’s forest trails, stroll along the waterfront, or ride on the miniature railway.
There are also a variety of art installations, gardens, sculptures, and monuments to explore.
The park also features a range of family-friendly activities, including a pitch-and-putt golf course, a water park, and a skate park.
With its beautiful views and plenty of things to do, Stanley Park is a famous attraction for locals and tourists.
Stanley Park to Capilano Suspension Bridge Park
- Distance: Approximately 5.1 miles (8.2 km)
- Time: Approximately 11 minutes
Getting Capilano Suspension Bridge Park
If you are looking for a scenic route to the Capilano Suspension Bridge Park from Stanley Park, the BC-1A N/BC-99 N is the route for you.
This route offers a breathtaking view of the ocean, mountains, and downtown Vancouver.
Starting from Stanley Park, you will take the BC-1A N until you reach the junction with the BC-99 N.
From there, you will follow the BC-99 N until you reach the Capilano Suspension Bridge Park.
Exploring Capilano Suspension Bridge Park
The Capilano Suspension Bridge Park offers a unique experience for visitors.
Spanning 230 feet above and 450 feet across the Capilano River, the bridge provides a thrilling experience for those who fear heights. It also offers a unique view of the surrounding area.
The park also offers other attractions for visitors. These include the Cliffwalk, a series of cantilevered platforms and bridges that hang from the granite cliff face and offer stunning views of the Capilano River and its canyon.
There is also the Treetop Adventure, which allows visitors to explore the treetops of the West Coast rainforest and gain a unique perspective of the area.
Capilano Suspension Bridge Park to Grouse Mountain
- Distance: Approximately 1.8 miles (2.9km)
- Time: Approximately 6 minutes
Getting to Grouse Mountain
From Capilano Suspension Bridge Park, head north on Capilano Road for 0.6 miles.
Turn left onto North Vancouver Avenue and continue for 0.3 miles. Turn right onto Marine Drive and drive for 1.2 miles.
Turn left onto Grouse Mountain Access Road and continue for 0.3 miles to reach Grouse Mountain.
Exploring Grouse Mountain
Grouse Mountain is a stunning destination that is sure to take your breath away.
Standing at just over 4,000 feet, Grouse Mountain offers gorgeous views of the North Shore Mountains, downtown Vancouver, and North Vancouver.
The mountain offers a variety of activities, such as the popular Grouse Grind, an intense hiking trail that brings you to the top of the mountain.
Other trails around Grouse Mountain are equally as breathtaking, offering hikers the chance to explore the rugged terrain of the mountain.
The mountain also contains a variety of wildlife and nature reserves. From bald eagles to black bears, deer, and marmots, there is a plethora of animal life on Grouse Mountain.
In addition to exploring the natural beauty of the mountain, visitors can also explore the ski resort, the Grouse Mountain Skyride, and the aerial tramway.
Booking.comFinal Thoughts
Traveling from Seattle to Victoria, BC & Vancouver is an amazing journey of discovering the beauty and culture of the Pacific Northwest.
From the lively cityscapes of Seattle to the lush forests of Vancouver Island and the picturesque harbor of Victoria, you will be blown away by the beauty of the area.
Not to mention the delicious seafood, friendly locals, and unforgettable attractions like the Butchart Gardens.
So what are you waiting for? Get out there and discover the wonders of the Pacific Northwest!
