However you choose to get to Victoria it will be incredibly scenic. Just a 30 minute float plane ride from Vancouver or a couple of hours on a ferry through the Gulf Islands, most people are on the lookout for whale spouts or dolphins dancing through the waves. The capital city for the province of British Columbia has a bustling harbour, yet locals and travellers saunter along the waterfront with ice creams in hand or stopping for afternoon tea. Surrounding landmarks such as the Empress Hotel and the Parliament Buildings add an historic backdrop to photos, while the Royal BC Museum sheds a light on everything from totem poles to natural features of the area. Known as the 'City of Gardens', Victoria's annual bloom count gives nearby Butchart Gardens a run for their money-clearly the hottest coastal climate in Canada has an effect!  Strolling through the city streets it's easy to pop into world famous books stores and chocolate shops, in addition to lunch in Canada's oldest Chinatown, possibly along Fan Tan Alley- the narrowest street in Canada. Victoria can be a daytrip, but most visitors wish they had more time to explore the city.