 Wharf Street
James O'Mara photo
Oak Bay Village
A genteel enclave sometimes described as "more English than England," Oak Bay Village is just a 10-minute drive east of downtown Victoria. Its charming high street boasts an array of high-end shops as well as restaurants, cafés and pubs to suit any budget. Authentic afternoon tea is a local specialty.
Picnic or take a scenic walk in one of the many parks, gardens and beaches in and around Oak Bay.
Cycle the Seaside Touring Route, which traces the shoreline past stately homes and the city's oldest golf course.
Stroll through the Chinese Cemetery - the history of this area is more ethnically diverse than its "Englishness" may suggest!
> Oak Bay website
> Map of Oak Bay
James Bay
If splendid old Victorian houses interest you, James Bay is the neighbourhood to explore. Just a five-minute walk south of downtown, its homes were built by Victoria's founding families. Most have been lovingly preserved.
The magnificent Fairmont Empress Hotel, the symbolic centre of Victoria, sits at the edge of the Inner Harbour. It's a local must-see, along with Beacon Hill Park's inspiring gardens.
There are different ways to experience history in James Bay: Emily Carr House and Helmcken House showcase the 19th-century home lives of two of the area's most famous residents, while the Provincial Legislative Buildings and the Royal British Columbia Museum provide broader historical perspectives.
>Map of James Bay
Rockland/Fairfield
A neighbourhood of graceful mansions showcasing striking architectural details and lush grounds, Rockland will surely inspire you. Beginning in the 1880s, its Arts-and-Crafts-style homes were designed by well-known architects.
The Fairfield neighbourhood enjoys some of the best ocean and mountain views in the city. It's home to the historic and beautifully landscaped Ross Bay Cemetery, which is full of impressive marble, sandstone and granite monuments to many famous local citizens.
Government House is also found here. The official residence of BC's Lieutenant Governor, representative of Her Majesty the Queen, this is the ceremonial home of all British Columbians. It's an interesting embodiment of BC, past and present, and well worth a visit. Its magnificent gardens are open to the public.
> Map of Rocklands
Uplands
Where do you find the most millionaires per square kilometre in Canada? In an exclusive Victoria neighbourhood locals have dubbed the Uplands. Just a 15-minute drive east of downtown Victoria, this century-old neighbourhood plays host to many stately mansions.
Development of the Uplands began in 1909, overseen by renowned BC architect Francis Rattenbury. The best way to view the local architecture is to stroll through the area, which is dotted with ornamental Edwardian street lights and monumental gate posts.
> Map of Uplands
Chinatown
During Gold Rush days, half the population of Victoria was Chinese. Today, a small but vibrant community still exists in Victoria's Chinatown. The second oldest Chinatown in North America - only San Francisco's is older - it contains architectural oddities and attractions such as the narrowest street in Canada as well as the ornate and colourful Gate of Harmonious Interest, the symbolic entrance to the neighbourhood. It is well worth a visit.
>Map of Chinatown
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