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16 Mar 2025Updated last time
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Vancouver Island 5 Days Itinerary

5 Days in Vancouver Island Itinerary Overview

The perfect blend of urban charm and natural beauty, this 5-day itinerary covers some of the most captivating destinations on Vancouver Island. Begin your journey in Victoria, the capital city of British Columbia, where you can explore its historic architecture, bustling harbor, and vibrant cultural scene. Don't miss the Royal BC Museum and the stately Parliament Buildings.

Next, immerse yourself in the botanical wonderland of Butchart Gardens. Renowned for its meticulously landscaped gardens and stunning floral displays, it provides a serene escape that's perfect for a leisurely stroll and photography.

Continue to Nanaimo, a city that offers picturesque waterfront views, numerous outdoor activities, and the delectable Nanaimo Bar dessert. Here, you can enjoy hiking, kayaking, and exploring local markets and restaurants.

From Nanaimo, head towards the rugged beauty of the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve. This park is celebrated for its pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and abundant wildlife. It's a haven for nature lovers and those seeking outdoor adventures such as hiking and wildlife viewing.

Your next stop is Tofino, a laid-back town famous for its surfing, whale watching, and incredible coastal scenery. Enjoy the local cuisine and relaxed atmosphere as you partake in various outdoor activities.

Conclude your trip in Ucluelet, known for its dramatic coastal views and access to the Wild Pacific Trail. This quieter alternative to Tofino offers excellent opportunities for hiking, marine life viewing, and embracing the natural beauty that defines Vancouver Island.


Recommended Activities

  • Victoria is the capital city of British Columbia, known for its historic architecture, beautiful harbor, and vibrant cultural scene. It offers attractions like the Royal BC Museum and Parliament Buildings.
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    Butchart Gardens

    Butchart Gardens is a world-renowned garden that attracts visitors with its stunning floral displays, beautifully landscaped gardens, and tranquil setting. It's perfect for a leisurely stroll and photography.
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  • Nanaimo is known for its picturesque waterfront, outdoor activities, and the famous Nanaimo Bar dessert. The city offers opportunities for hiking, kayaking, and exploring local markets and restaurants.
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  • Trip Point Pin4

    Pacific Rim National Park Reserve

    Pacific Rim National Park Reserve is renowned for its stunning coastal landscapes, pristine beaches, and lush rainforests. It's ideal for hiking, wildlife viewing, and exploring the natural beauty of Vancouver Island.
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  • Tofino is a popular destination for surfing, whale watching, and enjoying the rugged coastal scenery. The town has a laid-back vibe, with excellent local cuisine and opportunities for outdoor adventures.
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  • Ucluelet is known for its dramatic coastal views, hiking trails, and abundant marine life. It offers a quieter alternative to Tofino with access to the Wild Pacific Trail and various outdoor activities.
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Tasty Picks

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    Nourish Kitchen & Cafe

    4.6
    $$$$

    Nourish Kitchen & Cafe

    Located in Victoria, this cafe offers a unique farm-to-table dining experience with a focus on fresh, organic ingredients and creative dishes.
    4.6
    $$$$
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    The Floating Fish Store

    4.4
    $$$$

    The Floating Fish Store

    Situated at Fisherman’s Wharf in Victoria, this floating eatery offers fresh seafood straight from the ocean, providing a truly nautical dining experience.
    4.4
    $$$$
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    Cuckoo Trattoria & Pizzeria

    4.5
    $$$$

    Cuckoo Trattoria & Pizzeria

    Located in Coombs, just outside Nanaimo, this quirky Italian restaurant is set in a charming village with goats grazing on the rooftop.
    4.5
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    Wolf in the Fog

    7.9
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    Wolf in the Fog

    In Tofino, this restaurant is known for its innovative dishes using locally-sourced ingredients, paired with breathtaking views of the coastline.
    7.9
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    Ucluelet Brewing Co.

    4.5
    $$$$

    Ucluelet Brewing Co.

    A unique brewpub in Ucluelet offering locally crafted beers and a cozy atmosphere, perfect after a day of exploring the wild Pacific coastline.
    4.5
    $$$$
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Stay Recommendations

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    Fairmont Empress Hotel

    4.5

    Fairmont Empress Hotel

    Located in Victoria, this iconic hotel boasts historic charm, luxurious accommodations, and a stunning harbor view, making it a must-visit landmark.
    4.5
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    Free Spirit Spheres

    4.9

    Free Spirit Spheres

    In Qualicum Beach, these spherical treehouses offer a unique and immersive experience in nature, perfect for a magical, off-the-grid stay.
    4.9
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    The Wickaninnish Inn

    4.4

    The Wickaninnish Inn

    Located in Tofino, this oceanfront inn provides luxurious accommodations with breathtaking views, offering a serene and luxurious coastal retreat.
    4.4
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    Hummingbird Cottage

    5

    Hummingbird Cottage

    Situated in Ucluelet, this cozy and charming cottage offers a peaceful escape with all the modern amenities, set amidst natural beauty.
    5
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    The Great Escape

    4.9

    The Great Escape

    In Nanaimo, this unique floating boathouse provides an unusual stay right on the water, offering a tranquil and distinctive experience.
    4.9
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Local Events & Happenings

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    Sunfest Country Music Festival

    Sunfest Country Music Festival

    The event will take place at Laketown Ranch Music and Recreation Park in Lake Cowichan.
    Map IconLaketown Ranch Music and Recreation Park in Lake Cowichan (21.49 mi)
    Calendar IconN/A
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    2025 PFC Flex Voucher

    2025 PFC Flex Voucher

    The event will take place at Starlight Stadium in Victoria.
    Map IconStarlight Stadium in Victoria (55 mi)
    Calendar Icon1 Dec 2025
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    2025 PFC 6 Ticket Flex Pack

    2025 PFC 6 Ticket Flex Pack

    The event will take place at Starlight Stadium in Victoria.
    Map IconStarlight Stadium in Victoria (55 mi)
    Calendar Icon1 Dec 2025
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    2025 PFC 10 Ticket Flex Pack

    2025 PFC 10 Ticket Flex Pack

    The event will take place at Starlight Stadium in Victoria.
    Map IconStarlight Stadium in Victoria (55 mi)
    Calendar Icon1 Dec 2025
    Picture for 2025 PFC 10 Ticket Flex Pack
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    2025 PFC Trident Voucher

    2025 PFC Trident Voucher

    The event will take place at Starlight Stadium in Victoria.
    Map IconStarlight Stadium in Victoria (55 mi)
    Calendar Icon1 Jan 2026
    Picture for 2025 PFC Trident Voucher
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    Pissed Jeans with Wait/Less

    Pissed Jeans with Wait/Less

    Legal Age 19+ (Valid Photo I.D. Required)MODO-LIVE, I am the Eggplant, Heartache no. 2 present...Pissed Jeanswith Wait/Less Friday October 24th, 2025Upstairs CabaretVancouver, BC
    Map IconUpstairs in Victoria (61.63 mi)
    Calendar Icon25 Oct 2025
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    Bryan Adams: Roll with the Punches w/ guest The Sheepdogs

    Bryan Adams: Roll with the Punches w/ guest The Sheepdogs

    The event will take place at Save-On-Foods Memorial Centre in Victoria.
    Map IconSave-On-Foods Memorial Centre in Victoria (61.78 mi)
    Calendar Icon14 Sep 2025
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