Seattle is a vibrant center for various activities and industries, making it an ideal starting point for nearby adventures. Sometimes, the best adventures are just across the water. If you’re in Seattle and craving an international getaway without the hassle of airports, Victoria, BC, is your answer. Just a scenic ferry ride away on the FRS Clipper, this charming Canadian city offers a delightful mix of history, food, nature, and waterfront beauty—all at a pace that lets you breathe it all in.

Whether you’re indulging in afternoon tea at the Empress, spotting orcas in the Salish Sea, or wandering through world-famous gardens, Victoria is the kind of place that makes you wonder why you don’t visit more often. And the best part? You can do it all in a weekend.

Here’s how to make the most of 48 hours in Victoria with just the right balance of adventure and relaxation.

Planning the Perfect Weekend Getaway

Planning a weekend getaway can be a great way to recharge and explore new destinations. When it comes to the Pacific Northwest, there are countless options for a quick and memorable trip. From outdoor adventures to cultural experiences, the region has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking to hike through lush forests, explore vibrant cities, or simply relax by the water, the Pacific Northwest offers ample opportunities to create unforgettable memories.

Best Weekend Getaways in the Pacific Northwest

The Pacific Northwest is a treasure trove of exciting weekend getaways. Here are some of the best options:

  • Seattle, Washington: Explore the Emerald City’s vibrant culture, stunning natural beauty, and world-class attractions. From the iconic Space Needle to the bustling Pike Place Market, Seattle is a city that never disappoints.

  • Victoria, British Columbia: Discover the charming city’s rich history, beautiful gardens, and outdoor activities. Victoria’s waterfront charm and European feel make it a perfect escape.

  • Portland, Oregon: Experience the city’s quirky vibe, food trucks, and craft breweries. Portland is known for its unique culture and laid-back atmosphere.

  • Vancouver, British Columbia: Visit the city’s iconic landmarks, Stanley Park, and Granville Island. Vancouver offers a mix of urban excitement and natural beauty.

  • Olympic National Park, Washington: Hike through ancient forests, explore tidepools, and enjoy scenic drives. This national park is a haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Day 1: From Seattle’s Skyline to Victoria’s Waterfront Charm

Morning: Setting Sail on the Clipper Ferry

There’s something magical about boarding a boat and heading somewhere new, especially for travelers seeking rich cultural experiences and outdoor adventures. The FRS Clipper, which departs from Seattle’s Pier 69, is more than just transportation—it’s part of the experience. With various transit routes available from Seattle, including bus services, light rail lines, and ferry connections, you can easily reach the pier. Settle into your seat, grab a coffee, and watch as the Seattle skyline fades into the distance.

As you glide across the Salish Sea, keep an eye out for bald eagles, porpoises, and even whales. Before you know it, you’re pulling into Victoria’s Inner Harbour, greeted by historic buildings, bobbing seaplanes, and a slower, more European pace of life.

The FRS Clipper docked in Victoria's Inner Harbour.

Midday: Checking In & Exploring the Heart of Victoria

The beauty of Victoria is that everything is within walking distance. Enjoy exploring Victoria with friends, making new memories together. Drop your bags at your hotel—whether it’s the iconic Fairmont Empress, the boutique-style Magnolia Hotel & Spa, or the waterfront Hotel Grand Pacific—and set out to explore.

First stop? Lunch at Red Fish Blue Fish, a dockside eatery serving up the best fish and chips in the city. Expect a line (it’s worth it), then take your crispy, golden meal to-go, finding a seat along the water to soak it all in.

Afternoon: A Walk Through History & Culture

Victoria wears its history well, and the best way to experience it is by wandering. Start at the Royal BC Museum, where you’ll get an immersive look at British Columbia’s Indigenous heritage, natural history, and even a life-size woolly mammoth.

Just next door, the BC Parliament Buildings stand tall—a reminder of Victoria’s colonial past. Take a free tour if you’re curious, or simply admire the grandeur from the steps.

Evening: A Dinner Fit for Royalty

As the sun dips, head to Q at The Empress, where the menu highlights fresh, local ingredients in a setting that feels both historic and modern. If you’re feeling adventurous, ask for the “100 Mile Menu,” featuring ingredients sourced entirely from within 100 miles of the hotel.

Not ready to call it a night? Stroll the Inner Harbour, where street performers, twinkling lights, and seaplanes coming in for a landing create a scene straight out of a postcard. Cap off the night with a cocktail at Clive’s Classic Lounge, a hidden gem known for expertly crafted drinks.

The Empress Hotel overlooking Victoria's Inner Harbour.

Day 2: Gardens, Whales & Coastal Magic in the Pacific Northwest

Morning: Breakfast & Butchart Gardens

Start your day at Jam Café, where the portions are as big as the flavors. Whether you go for their famous brioche French toast or the pulled pork pancakes, you won’t leave hungry.

For those who love the outdoors, the area offers a range of hiking trails, from easy walks to challenging treks, providing access to stunning natural sights and recreational activities.

Then, it’s time to hop on a shuttle or rent a bike for a 30-minute journey to Butchart Gardens. This world-famous attraction is 55 acres of pure floral magic, from the breathtaking Sunken Garden to the peaceful Japanese Garden. It’s one of the world’s most renowned gardens, a place to slow down, take in the scents, and let nature do the talking.

Midday: Tea Time or Wine Time?

After the gardens, you’ve got a choice to make:

  • Wine & Cider Tasting – Vancouver Island is home to incredible wineries and cideries. Head to Church & State Wines or Sea Cider Farm & Ciderhouse for tastings with a view.

  • Afternoon Tea at the Empress – If you prefer an elegant experience, this is the spot. Delicate finger sandwiches, house-made scones, and a steaming pot of Empress Blend tea make for a perfectly refined afternoon.

Afternoon: Whale Watching & Floating Villages

If Victoria is known for one thing (aside from gardens and high tea), it’s whale watching. Join an afternoon tour and head into the Salish Sea, where orcas, humpback whales, sea lions, and bald eagles are all common sights.

Prefer to stay on land? Wander over to Fisherman’s Wharf, a colorful floating village where you can grab a bite, rent a kayak, or just sit and watch the harbor seals beg for scraps.

A bench overlooking Fisherman's Wharf in Victoria.

Evening: Casual Eats & Local Brews

For dinner, keep it casual at 10 Acres Commons, a farm-to-table spot where everything on your plate is sourced from their own farm. Afterward, grab a pint at Whistle Buoy Brewing, a laid-back, community-driven brewery in Market Square.

Day 3: A Slow Morning & Scenic Farewell

Morning: One Last Stroll

Before heading back to Seattle, enjoy a slow morning. Grab a cozy breakfast at Blue Fox Café, then take a final stroll through Beacon Hill Park, one of the world’s most beautiful urban parks, where you might spot a peacock or two wandering the gardens.

For one last taste of Victoria, swing by Rogers’ Chocolates for a box of their famous Victoria Creams—because every great trip deserves a sweet ending.

Midday: Boarding the Clipper & Heading Home

As you board the FRS Clipper for the 3:00 PM departure, you’ll realize that Victoria isn’t just a place to visit—it’s a place that lingers. Maybe it’s the charm, the history, or the way the city seems to exist in its own perfect pocket of time. Either way, one thing is certain: you’ll be back.

Planning Your Own Victoria Weekend? Here’s What to Know:

  • Bring Your Passport – This is an international trip if you’re coming from Seattle, so a valid ID is required.

  • Book Early – The Clipper, afternoon tea, and whale-watching tours sell out fast.

  • Pack Smart – Victoria’s coastal weather is unpredictable—bring layers.

  • Walk or Bike – Victoria is one of the most walkable cities in Canada—leave the car behind.

Victoria is the kind of place that makes a weekend feel like a true getaway—far enough to feel like an adventure, yet close enough that the journey is part of the fun. Whether it’s your first visit or your tenth, the city never fails to surprise.

So, are you ready to pack your bags? What would be your perfect Victoria weekend?

 

Related Posts: