A Perfect 2-Day Garden Itinerary in Victoria, BC
See the best of Victoria’s gardens on this self-guided tour
While other Canadian cities are still deep in the embrace of winter, Victoria often boasts cherry blossoms as early as February, earning it the well-deserved nickname
"The Garden City."
Siting on the southern tip of Vancouver Island, Victoria, British Columbia is a paradise for garden lovers. This pretty, coastal city benefits from a Mediterranean-like microclimate that nurtures an astonishing array of botanical treasures all year round.
What makes Victoria particularly special for garden lovers is the huge diversity of its horticultural offerings, all contained within a compact, walkable city core and picturesque surrounding areas. This accessibility makes it the perfect destination for a weekend or mid-week escape. You can immerse yourself in natural beauty without the need for extensive travel time between attractions.
The city's garden heritage runs deep, influenced by British colonial traditions yet evolved into something distinctly West Coast. From the stately formal gardens of historic estates to wild coastal landscapes that showcase native species, Victoria is full of botanical creativity that changes with each season.
This two-day itinerary weaves together Victoria's most celebrated garden attractions with lesser-known garden sanctuaries that even frequent visitors might have missed. I’ll guide you through not only the magnificent Butchart Gardens but also to tucked-away gardens that are not so well-known but definitely worth visiting.
And because exploring beautiful gardens builds an appetite, I’ve included some great stops to enjoy the local cuisine. Vancouver Island has a thriving farm-to-table and sustainability culture. You’ll find plenty of restaurants that incorporate locally sourced ingredients for a real taste of the Island. Prepare for a weekend where every sense will be engaged, from the visual feast of wonderful landscapes to the fragrance of heritage roses and the taste of farm-fresh cuisine.
Day 1 Morning: Butchart Gardens - a World Renowned Garden
Begin your garden adventure by arriving at Butchart Gardens right when they open, typically at 9:00 AM. An early start means you’ll be rewarded with tranquil pathways and unobstructed views before the tour buses arrive mid-morning. As you step through the entrance, you're immediately transported into a horticultural wonderland that began over a century ago when Jennie Butchart transformed an abandoned limestone quarry into what would become one of the world's premier garden attractions.
And, first things first, there’s a coffee shop right near the entrance if you skipped breakfast or just need a quick pick-me-up!
Make the Sunken Garden your first stop, descending into this extraordinary reclaimed quarry where sweeping lawns, colourful flowerbeds and meandering pathways invite you to go slowly and savour the moment (and your coffee). The soft morning light makes it the perfect time for photos.
Next, wander through the fragrant Rose Garden, home to over 280 varieties of roses whose perfumes fill the morning air. Walking below the rose pergolas is such a treat.
Don't miss the Japanese Garden, a peaceful sanctuary designed with attention to balance and harmony. Winding pathways lead you past maple trees, moss-covered stones, and tranquil ponds filled with koi fish. The contemplative atmosphere here provides a perfect contrast to the bold displays elsewhere in the gardens. This is actually my favourite spot in the whole garden, particularly in autumn when the Japanese maples blaze in red and orange.
To fully explore the gardens, allow yourself 3 to 4 hours.
Read more about Butchart Gardens
Lunch: from High Tea to Locally Grown
There are two options for lunch:
Eat at one of the restaurants at Butchart Gardens
Move on to the next garden, the Gardens at HCP, and enjoy a casual meal at the Charlotte and the Quail (see section below)
Butchart Gardens Dining
For casual dining, the Blue Poppy is your go to. Located inside the former greenhouse it has a lovely atrium with lots of windows that look out onto the garden. The food is casual and made with local, seasonal produce.
For a more upscale experience, visit the Dining Room restaurant which is located inside the former Butchart family home and offers a sumptuous High Tea daily from 11.30am – 3pm. They also offer a lunch and dinner menu seasonally. During the busy summer season it’s highly recommended to book ahead.
Day 1 Afternoon: The Gardens at HCP - A Gardener’s Garden
Now it’s on to one of the lesser-known treasures of Victoria's garden scene: The Gardens at HCP (Horticultural Centre of the Pacific). This is probably my favourite garden in Victoria – it’s got a welcoming, casual vibe and so much for plant lovers to explore.
Located just a short drive from Butchart Gardens, this 100-acre site offers a refreshing contrast to the morning's manicured experience at Butchart. Often called "the gardener's garden”, HCP combines beautiful display gardens with a working educational facility where the Pacific Northwest's horticultural future takes root.
As you enter, you'll notice immediately that these gardens have a more intimate, experimental feel. The nine-acre display area features over 20 distinct themed gardens, each with its own personality and purpose. The Takata Japanese and Zen Garden provides a serene space for contemplation with its carefully positioned stones and pruned trees, while the nearby Winter Garden demonstrates how thoughtful design can create visual interest even in the dormant season.
Plant enthusiasts will love the Native Plant Demonstration Garden, showcasing indigenous Pacific Northwest plants in a natural habitat, and the Drought Resistant Garden, offers practical inspiration for sustainable home landscaping. Take time to wander through the herb garden, where fragrant Mediterranean varieties thrive in Victoria's climate, and don't miss the whimsical Children's Garden with its playful elements that appeal to visitors of all ages.
This garden is particularly beautiful in spring when the rhododendrons and azaleas are in bloom. The colour feels almost overwhelming!
What makes HCP particularly special is its dual mission as both a display garden and a teaching facility. As you explore, you might encounter students from the Pacific Horticulture College tending to plants or designing new garden spaces. The knowledgeable volunteers staffing the gardens are eager to share insights about specific plants or answer questions about techniques you can apply at home.
Before leaving, drop in to the plant shop where you can purchase a living reminder of your visit.
Allow a couple of hours to explore this garden.
Added Bonus: Each August HCP hosts a weekend Art and Garden Festival which is a wonderful opportunity to enjoy the garden and also meet lots of local artists and artisans. The artist booths are spread out through the garden so you can see their work as you wander the garden.
Dining at the Gardens at HCP
HCP has a lovely little restaurant with the rather whimsical name Charlotte and the Quail. They offer really tasty food with a constantly changing menu that features seasonal local ingredients – including some harvested just steps away. You can sit outside on the deck and look out over the garden as you sip your rose lemonade. On a sunny day it’s the perfect spot for a relaxing, casual meal and to just while away some time. Find out more.
Day 1 Evening: Sunset Stroll Through Beacon Hill Park
As the afternoon light begins to soften, make your way to Beacon Hill Park for a leisurely sunset exploration of Victoria's crown jewel of public spaces. This 200-acre urban oasis has been the green heart of the city since 1882, offering a perfect blend of manicured gardens, natural woodlands, and stunning coastal views that are particularly magical during the golden hour.
The park is an easy walk from downtown – just follow Douglas St which runs along one edge of the park. As you meander along the winding pathways, you'll discover a series of ornamental ponds and seasonal flower beds that showcase the city's horticultural expertise.
You'll very likely encounter the park's most famous residents – peacocks - strutting proudly with their iridescent plumage catching the late-day sun. These magnificent birds have roamed freely throughout the park for generations, adding an unexpected touch of exotic splendour. And if you don’t see them, you’ll surely hear their distinctive call. Speaking of birds, also keep an eye out for herons nesting in the trees near the main lake. And if you have a really keen eye you may also spot a Barred Owl.
The park's impressive collection of mature trees deserves special attention. Giant sequoias, Garry oaks, and arbutus trees create a diverse canopy, with some specimens dating back more than a century.
Make your way toward the park's southern edge as the sun begins its descent. Claim a bench along Dallas Road and take in the panoramic views of Washington State's Olympic Mountains across the Strait of Juan de Fuca. Wander along the waterfront path where you'll find locals walking dogs, flying kites, and simply gathering to appreciate the day's end.
Dinner: Seafood on the Waterfront
After your sunset stroll, head to Finn's Seafood Chops and Cocktails on Wharf Street, where you can enjoy the day's catch while overlooking the Inner Harbour. Perhaps indulge in some classic fish and chips paired with a local craft beer as boats gently bob in the twilight waters just beyond your table. Find out more.
Credit: Stephen Bridger/iStock
Day 2 Morning: Government House Gardens - A Serene Oasis
This morning begins with a visit to one of Victoria's best-kept garden secrets: Government House Gardens. Nestled on the grounds of the official residence of British Columbia's Lieutenant Governor, these 36 acres of immaculately maintained gardens offer a tranquil retreat that, quite remarkably, remains free of charge and free of crowds, especially in the morning hours.
As you enter through the stately gates off Rockland Avenue, you'll find yourself on a winding path that leads through a series of distinct garden rooms, each with its own character and planting scheme. The formal gardens nearest the house showcase traditional English design principles with geometric beds filled with seasonal colour, clipped hedges, and graceful fountains.
There’s something to appeal to everyone at these gardens: Victorian and Sunken Rose Gardens, an Iris and Lily Garden, Herb Garden and beautiful herbaceous border gardens. Venture further to discover the Woodland Trail, where native British Columbia plants thrive under the dappled shade of mature Garry oaks. This naturalistic area provides a fascinating contrast to the more manicured spaces, offering a glimpse into the region's indigenous flora. Nearby, the extensive rhododendron collection bursts with colour in spring, while the rock gardens showcase alpine plants perfectly adapted to Victoria's climate.
Be sure to make your way to the property's upper terraces to enjoy sweeping views of the Olympic Mountains beyond the Strait of Juan de Fuca. These vantage points offer some of the city's most spectacular panoramas, yet remain uncrowded compared to more publicized lookouts.
The absence of tour buses and commercial elements creates a quiet atmosphere perfect for morning reflection. Local gardeners often visit to gather ideas, sketchbooks in hand, inspired by the changing seasonal displays and thoughtful plant combinations throughout this hidden gem.
Check out their excellent interactive map.
The gardens are open every day from dawn to dusk. And did I mention that they’re FREE!
Next Stop: Finnerty Gardens at the University of Victoria
After exploring Government House, make your way to the northeastern part of the city to discover one of Victoria's most impressive yet overlooked horticultural treasures. Situated within the University of Victoria campus, Finnerty Gardens encompasses nearly ten acres of winding paths and tranquil ponds that showcase one of Canada's most significant collections of rhododendrons and azaleas - yet remains absent from most standard tourist itineraries.
The gardens originated from a private collection donated in the 1970s and have evolved into a year-round botanical attraction with particular seasonal highlights. In spring you can expect to see an extraordinary spectacle as over 1,500 rhododendron and azalea plants burst into bloom, creating a kaleidoscope of colours from delicate pinks and whites to vibrant purples and reds. Although the garden is famed for its rhodo collection, the planting design ensures visual interest across all seasons.
Autumn transforms Finnerty Gardens into a showcase of warm hues as deciduous trees display their fall finery. Winter reveals the elegant structural elements of the garden - sculptural bark patterns, seed heads, and carefully placed rockwork - while early-blooming hellebores and witch hazels provide subtle colour even in the coolest months.
Don't let Finnerty Gardens' off-the-beaten-path location deter you - this garden is absolutely worth the short drive from downtown Victoria. The peaceful atmosphere, lack of entrance fees, and remarkable plant diversity make it a standout experience even in a city renowned for its gardens. Plan to spend at least an hour wandering the meandering pathways, finding secluded benches perfect for quiet contemplation, and appreciating the masterful way this garden balances wild beauty with thoughtful curation.
If you’re seeking an authentic garden experience beyond the typical tourist spots, Finnerty Gardens delivers an unforgettable immersion into the botanical richness of Vancouver Island.
Added bonus: parking is free on Sundays.
Read more about Finnerty Gardens.
Lunch: Nourish Kitchen & Café
After immersing yourself in the tranquil beauty of Finnerty Gardens, make your way back to the downtown area. In the nearby pretty neighbourhood of James Bay you’ll find Nourish Kitchen & Café – open for brunch from 9am - 2pm. Housed in a restored heritage home complete with creaky wooden floors and sun-dappled nooks, this farm-to-table eatery embodies Victoria's commitment to sustainable, locally-sourced cuisine. The seasonal menu features vibrant garden-inspired dishes that perfectly complement your horticultural tour – perhaps a harvest bowl brimming with roasted root vegetables and foraged greens. Herbs grown in the café's own kitchen garden make their way into refreshing botanical lattes and tonics, while large windows and a welcoming patio allow you to continue enjoying Victoria's natural beauty even while dining. Find out more.
Day 2 Afternoon: Hatley Castle & Gardens - an Historic Estate
From the quaint architecture of James Bay we step into a world of timeless elegance at Hatley Castle & Gardens which forms part of Royal Roads University. This magnificent Edwardian castle, built in 1908 by coal baron James Dunsmuir, is surrounded by 565 acres of gorgeous gardens and old-growth forest.
When you head through the garden gate, the first area you’ll come to is the formal Italian Garden, where geometric precision creates elegant symmetry. In true Italianate Garden style there’s classical statuary, carefully manicured hedges that frame vibrant seasonal blooms and wisteria covered loggias. This is a great spot to photograph the castle with flowers in the foreground.
From the Italian garden, wander down the woodland trail to the Rose Garden where heritage and modern rose varieties burst with colour and fragrance. Climbing roses clamber over trellises while formal beds showcase prized specimens collected from around the world. The garden reaches peak bloom in June.
Next stop is the Japanese Garden, with its large, reflective pond and traditional pavilion. There’s a narrow path around the pond which provides beautiful reflections for photography. From here you can walk along a path which takes you through the woodlands, carpeted with bluebells in spring, and with views over the lake. There is also a bog garden and stone fish ladder.
You can exit the gardens via a gate at the bottom of the garden near the parking lot, or take a different path back up to the top entrance and return to the parking lot from there.
The gardens are open from 10am to dusk.
Read more about Hatley Castle Gardens.
The Scenic Route Back to Downtown
Take the scenic route back to the city via the Gorge Waterway.
Once you leave Hatley Castle back towards the city you will be on Sooke Road which turns into the Island Highway. Just before the road merges onto the freeway, you’ll see the View Royal exit. Take the exit and follow the road until you reach Admirals Road where you’ll turn left before turning right onto Gorge Road. This is a nice spot to stop for a walk along the water. Continue on Gorge Road until you reach Tillicum Road where you will turn right. Cross over the bridge and take the first right which will take you down to a parking lot. Nearby is a small Japanese Garden that is worth a visit. Entry is free.
Back out on Tillicum Road, turn right and follow it to Craigflower Road. Turn left onto Craigflower and follow it to Catherine Street and turn right. Follow Catherine all the way down to tonight’s dinner stop at Spinnaker’s Gastro Brewpub.
Dinner: Spinnakers - Canada’s Oldest Brewpub
A relaxed and casual dinner this evening at Spinnakers Gastro Brewpub, Canada’s oldest brewpub. It offers a cozy, waterfront setting with stunning views. Known for its commitment to local ingredients, the menu features fresh, seasonal fare sourced from Vancouver Island farmers, fishers, and artisans. Whether you opt for their famous West Coast seafood chowder, a hearty burger made with locally raised beef, or a creative vegetarian dish, every plate is crafted with care. Pair your meal with one of their house-brewed craft beers, from hoppy IPAs to rich stouts, or try a cider made with BC apples. They also offer beer flights so you can get a taste of their most popular brews.
This place is a real favourite of mine - the warm, rustic atmosphere, complete with exposed wood beams, makes it the perfect spot to unwind after a day of garden exploring. Don’t forget to save room for dessert! And on the way out MAKE SURE you check out the Provisions store to pick up some hand made chocolate truffles. You can thank me later. Find out more.
Reflecting on Victoria’s Garden Charm
Victoria is truly a paradise for garden lovers, offering the perfect blend of world-renowned floral displays, hidden botanical gems, and breathtaking coastal scenery. Over two days, you’ll experience everything from the grandeur of Butchart Gardens to the quiet charm of Finnerty Gardens, the historic elegance of Hatley Castle, and the vibrant landscapes of Beacon Hill Park.
Autumn colour at Butchart Gardens
Whether you’re strolling through manicured flower beds or enjoying a locally inspired meal at Spinnakers Gastro Brewpub, this itinerary is designed to immerse you in the beauty and tranquility of Victoria’s gardens. With its mild climate there’s never a bad time to visit, but for peak flower viewing plan to visit between mid-March and August. Autumn colours reach their peak late September to mid-October.
So, pack your walking shoes, charge your camera, and get ready for a garden-filled getaway that will leave you feeling inspired and refreshed.
Plan your visit to Victoria
How to get to Victoria
Ferry
BC Ferries run a regular passenger and vehicle service every hour from the Tsawassen terminal in Vancouver to Schwartz Bay on Vancouver Island. Booking is not necessary except during peak holiday periods (Easter, Thanksgiving, Christmas etc). Occasionally during summer when things are busier you may have to wait for the next ferry. The ferry does not operate overnight so be sure you check when the last ferry is departing.
The ferry offers a range of food options and has plenty of comfortable seats with great views. In summer they often have a naturalist on board offering talks and information about the local flora and fauna. Its an enjoyable 90 minute cruise through the Southern Gulf Islands.
For up to date schedules and fares visit BC Ferries
Bus/ferry combination
If you’re travelling from downtown Vancouver without a car, the easiest option is the BC Ferries Connector service. The bus makes several pick up stops in Vancouver and then drives on to the ferry. On arrival at Schwartz Bay you’ll re-board the coach which will take you into downtown Victoria. They also pick up and drop off at Vancouver Airport and the Cruise Terminal.
For more information and tickets visit BC Ferries Connector.
Blackball Ferry
The Blackball Ferry line operates the MV Coho vehicle and passenger ferry between Victoria’s Inner Harbour and Port Angeles, Washington. There are two to four services per day (varies seasonally) and the journey takes around 90 minutes.
For schedules and tickets visit Blackball Ferry.
Seattle Ferry
FRS Clipper operates a passenger ferry service between Victoria Inner Harbour and Seattle Pier 69 downtown. This is high speed catamaran service operates daily, year round. Its a lovely scenic trip that takes around 2 hours 45 minutes.
For more information and tickets visit FRS Clipper.
By Air
Victoria is easy to access by air from Vancouver with Air Canada and WestJet both offering frequent services that depart from the Main Terminal at Vancouver International Airport (YVR). Both airlines plus Porter Air also fly between other Canadian cities and Victoria.
Pacific Coastal operates flights between YVR’s South Terminal and Victoria International Airport.
Another option is to travel via float plane which is a quintessential West Coast experience.
Harbour Air operates regular float plane services between Vancouver Harbour and Victoria Inner Harbour as well as some services from YVR’s South Terminal and Victoria Inner Harbour.
For more information, schedules and tickets, visit the airlines below:
Car Rental in Victoria
Car rental is easy in Victoria with options available from both the airport and downtown. Note that there is no car rental at the Schwartz Bay ferry terminal. Hertz, Thrifty, Budget, Avis and National are all available at the airport. Hertz, Budget, Avis, National and Enterprise have downtown locations.
For car rental bookings I recommend Kayak to find the best prices.
Where to Stay In Victoria
There are many excellent choices when it comes to accommodation in Victoria.
Here are a few of my favourites:
Fairmont Empress Hotel
This is one of Victoria’s most iconic buildings, situated right on the Inner Harbour. There’s probably not much I can say about this hotel that hasn’t been said before – it’s a classic and like all Fairmont hotels it’s elegant and comfortable. If you want to be right in the heart of Victoria while enjoying a little bit of luxury, this is the perfect choice. Find out more.
The Craigmyle Inn
I love this place! It’s a gorgeous Inn situated in the upscale neighbourhood of Rocklands, right next to Craigdarroch Castle, about 10 minutes from downtown. It’s a heritage building with lots of stairs and no elevator – so not recommended if you have mobility issues. It has been beautifully decorated in a French Provincial style. They also have a guest kitchen and living room filled with comfy sofas and armchairs by the fire. If you love cozy, stylish and historic then this is the place for you. They have a variety of rooms and suites available and serve an excellent breakfast. Note that none of the rooms have TV’s – but you won’t need one because you’ll be out exploring! Find out more.
Spinnakers Brewpub and Guesthouses
Not only does Spinnakers have an outstanding Brew Pub, it also offers some unique accommodations.
The first option is the Heritage House which is a restored Victorian home. There are five rooms to choose from and they are all decorated in period style. Some include working fireplaces. The other option is a self-catering Garden Suite. These suites are beautifully decorated with everything you’ll need for a comfortable stay. All guests also receive a complimentary beer & truffle pairing. Find out more.