Ultimate 3-Day Road Trip Itinerary for Vancouver Island

Day 1: Explore Victoria

Victoria, Canada

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Blue Fox Café

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at The Blue Fox Café, renowned for its local ingredients and delicious breakfast options.
Located in downtown Victoria, easy to find and park nearby.
CAD20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Butchart Gardens

Explore the stunning botanical displays at Butchart Gardens, one of Canada's most beloved horticultural attractions.
A quick 30-minute drive from downtown Victoria.
CAD38, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Firewood Café

Enjoy a rustic lunch at The Firewood Café, showcasing locally sourced ingredients in a cozy atmosphere.
Just a 10-minute drive from Butchart Gardens.
CAD25, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore Craigdarroch Castle

Discover the history and architecture of Craigdarroch Castle, a lavish Victorian-era mansion offering stunning views of the city.
20-minute drive from The Firewood Café.
CAD15, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Stroll Along Inner Harbour

Take a relaxing stroll along the picturesque Inner Harbour, soaking in the sights and atmosphere of downtown Victoria.
Only a 5-minute drive or a 30-minute walk from Craigdarroch Castle.
Free, 1 hour

4:00PM

Visit Royal BC Museum

Dive into the rich culture and history of British Columbia at the Royal BC Museum, featuring fascinating exhibits.
Located right along the Inner Harbour.
CAD20, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Il Terrazzo

Savor exquisite Italian cuisine at Il Terrazzo, where a warm ambiance will enhance your dining experience.
A 10-minute walk from the Royal BC Museum.
CAD50, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Wine & Nature in Cowichan Valley

Cowichan Valley, Canada

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Duncan Garage Café

Fuel your day with fresh, locally sourced breakfast items at The Duncan Garage Café, which has a lovely garden setting.
Drive from Victoria to Duncan, approximately 1 hour.
CAD18, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore Wine Country

Spend the morning touring some of Cowichan Valley’s renowned wineries, tasting their exquisite wines and enjoying the scenic vineyards.
Wineries are generally located within a 15-minute drive of each other.
CAD10 (varies by winery for tastings), 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Cowichan Bay Seafood Market

Indulge in the freshest seafood at The Cowichan Bay Seafood Market, where you can also enjoy local craft brews.
A 20-minute drive from the wineries.
CAD30, 1 hour

2:00PM

Hiking at Mount Prevost

Challenge yourself with a hike up Mount Prevost, offering breathtaking views of the valley and ocean from the summit.
30-minute drive from Cowichan Bay.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Visit Cowichan Valley Arts Council

Explore local art and craft exhibits at the Cowichan Valley Arts Council, showcasing the region's rich cultural tapestry.
A 20-minute drive from Mount Prevost.
Free/Donation, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at The Milestones Grill + Bar

Experience comfort food with a contemporary twist at The Milestones, where you can relax after an exciting day.
A 10-minute drive from Cowichan Valley Arts Council.
CAD40, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Adventure in Tofino

Tofino, Canada

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Tofino Coffee Roasting Company

Start your day with a great brew and fresh baked goods at Tofino Coffee Roasting Company, loved by locals.
Drive from Cowichan Valley to Tofino, approximately 2.5 hours.
CAD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore Pacific Rim National Park Reserve

Venture into Pacific Rim National Park where you can hike on beautiful trails or relax on expansive sandy beaches.
Located right in Tofino, just a short drive.
CAD10, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Shelter Restaurant

Savor a meal at Shelter Restaurant, known for its creative dishes utilizing fresh local and sustainable ingredients.
Located in Tofino, easy to reach.
CAD35, 1 hour

2:00PM

Whale Watching Tour

Delight in an unforgettable whale watching tour where you may spot orcas and sea lions in the wild.
Tour companies are located within Tofino.
CAD120, 3 hours

5:30PM

Relax at Long Beach

Unwind on Long Beach, taking in the stunning views and maybe catching a sunset before dinner.
15-minute drive from the whale watching tour locations.
Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at The Wolf in the Fog

End your day with an exquisite meal at The Wolf in the Fog, offering a modern take on West Coast cuisine in Tofino.
A short walk from Long Beach.
CAD60, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability