Victoria's famously mild winters make this city one of the best winter recreation destinations in the country. From tours and spa days to shopping and dining, there's no shortage of exciting things to do here during Canada's chilliest season. Thinking of visiting us? Here are six local winter activities that our real estate agents think you'll love.

6 Things to Do Around Victoria This Winter

Take the Victoria: Winter Wildlife Tour

Address: 146 Kingston Street, Victoria, BC V8V 1V4

Discover the unique beauty of Victoria's coastline in winter on Orca Spirit Adventures' Victoria: Winter Wildlife Tour. This three-hour experience takes you on a cruise through the icy waters of the Salish Sea.

With a panoramic viewing deck, a heated cabin, and plenty of complimentary hot drinks to enjoy, you'll be warm and cozy while you enjoy the majestic scenery on display. Keep an eye out for creatures like whales, porpoises, sea lions, and seabirds that may be lingering in the area. They're not as common as they are in the warmer months, but they're still around!

Visit the Fairmont Empress

Address: 633 Humboldt Street, Victoria, BC V8W 1W5

You don't have to stay at the Fairmont Empress to enjoy many of its facilities. This winter, treat yourself to:

• A luxurious dinner at the historic Q at the Empress restaurant
• A leisurely afternoon tea service in the hotel's elegant Lobby Lounge
• A soothing spa day or massage at the Fairmont Spa at the Empress

If you live nearby and are interested in an overnight visit, be sure to take advantage of their current deal. Residents of BC, Alberta, Washington State, and Oregon get 15% off their stay from now to April 30th, 2026. 

Treat Yourself to Rogers' Chocolates

Address: 913 Government Street, Victoria, BC V8W 1X5

Rogers' Chocolates has been crafting delectable chocolate confections for Victoria residents since 1885. Visit their beautiful heritage storefront on Government Street to pick up premium candies that will put your standard grocery store chocolates to shame. 

Our agents can't get enough of their signature Victoria Creams (especially the peppermint ones!), but their Empress squares, truffle drops, and almond brittles are close seconds. If you're looking for a special winter treat, try melting a bar of their gourmet dark chocolate into a decadent cup of hot cocoa at home.

Sweat it Out at HAVN Saunas

Address: 920 Wharf Street, Victoria, BC V8W 3Z3

HAVN Saunas offers sublime relaxation in an unforgettable setting: an old barge from the 1940s docked in Victoria's Inner Harbour. The antique boat has been retrofitted with: 

• Three saunas
• Two mineral baths
• Two cold pools
• A library with reading materials for guests
• A lounge with refreshments

They also provide soft robes for you to wear and a selection of their branded skin care and beauty products to enjoy while you unwind. The heat of the saunas is sure to feel even cozier with winter's chill waiting just outside.

Take a Carriage Ride with Tally-Ho Carriage Tours

Address: 465 Belleville Street, Victoria, BC V8V 2L8

Love history? How about horses? Tally-Ho Carriage Tours offers horse-drawn carriage rides through the streets of Victoria. Tours last anywhere from 15 to 90 minutes and may take you:

• Through James Bay, one of the oldest Canadian neighbourhoods on the Pacific Coast
• Along the craggy coast of the Salish Sea
• Through the manicured landscapes of Beacon Hill Park

For a $55 fee, you can upgrade to a VIP experience and spend an extra 15 minutes petting the horse and speaking with its handler.

Browse the Shelves at Munro's Books

Address: 1108 Government Street, Victoria, BC V8W 1Y2

Munro's Books is named after its famous founder, the acclaimed Canadian author Alice Munro. They carry the latest bestsellers as well as indie hits and even books from self-published local authors. Want to meet your favourite writers? They also host book launches and signings, including an appearance by fantasy author Steven Erikson on February 4th.

More Winter Adventures Await in BC's Capital City

No matter the season, you don't have to look far to find fun on Victoria's winding streets. Contact us today to take a closer look at our roster of Victoria homes for sale and find your place in the hustle and bustle of this historic city.