Victoria BC Holiday Shopping Guide
Though Victoria offers all kinds of big city perks like high-tech WiFi and a thriving food scene, this quaint capital has maintained its small-town charm – which makes it an ideal destination for stress-free holiday shopping. With an impressively high walkability score and a collection of eateries perfect to take a rest, you’ll have as much finding gifts this season as giving them.
Where to Shop in Victoria BC
For Those Who Love Shoes
For nearly 50 years, this Victoria staple has been featuring one of the largest selections of Converse and Vans in the world. And recently, Baggins has begun offering custom printing, so you can create your own look on your favorite pair of kicks.
For Those Who Love Books
Founded in 1963, Munro’s Books is loaded with old-world elegance and knowledgeable staff. Equally delightful is Russell Books, where the stacks are literally floor-to-ceiling.
For Those Who Love Food
Want to ensure the foodies in your life say ‘yum’? Stop by the Victoria Public Market. Operating year-round, this local hub features seasonal selections of the best Vancouver Island has to offer. You’ll find freshly baked pies at Victoria Pie Co. and butter-loaded croissants at The French Oven Bakery. There are hand-crafted, locally sourced, and ethically produced meats at Ravenstone Artisan Meats. And for the non-meat eaters in your life, The Very Good Butchers, the first vegan butcher shop on Canada’s West Coast, are making meatless alternatives that even carnivores crave.
For Those Who Love Sweets
Established in 1885, Rogers’ Chocolates is an iconic heritage landmark. Best known for their Victoria Creams and maple-infused chocolate selection, you can’t go wrong with any choice.
For Those Who Need a Little Something Special
What Lore General Store lacks in size, it makes up for in style. Featuring high-quality, locally-made products, this boutique’s collection ranges from lavender-infused honey to hand-crafted flower pots. Additionally, they host regular workshops featuring local artisans – allowing you to come, create, and snack!
Have special someone who’s on the wacky and weird side? Both of Oscar and Libby’s downtown locations feature everything from eclectic books and trendy purses to funky kitchen gadgets and novelty scarves.
Smoking Lily is another favorite stop for the eclectic yet functional gift. Beautiful clothing is crafted from high-quality goods and printed with nontoxic inks. Housewares are given a touch of intrigue with unique prints. And, every product sold is ‘earth friendly,’ so you can feel great about giving or getting.
For the Fashionistas
Considered by many to Victoria’s leader in fashion, Still Life features distinctive boutiques for men and women. Opened in 1984, this little gem regularly showcases everyday pieces with a bit of flair – meaning items that look as good as they feel.
Have a fashion-forward hipster in your life? Sitka is your sure bet. The eclectic shop is a miss-mash of BC-made, hand-knitted Cowichan sweaters, all-natural oils, and trendy printed teas. Plus, their commitment to the environment carry’s through to checkout, where you can choose from one of three environmental causes to which you can donate.
For Those Who Love Tea
A Victoria tea staple, Murchie’s has been selling two of the same blends since 1894 – Select Orange Pekoe and Queen Victoria. Today, they sell a wide selection of finely crafted and imported teas, making them a go-to for tea connoisseurs and the top restaurants throughout Vancouver Island.
Located in Victoria’s historic Chinatown, Sild Road Tea offers a fabulous selection of hand-crafted blends and unique teaware. While they carry a wide variety of Chinese classics, the two longstanding favorites are always a sure bet: Angelwater (a light mix of spearmint and rose petals) and Philosopher’s Brew (a bright combo or Lemongrass and Lavender).
Need help navigating the tea world? Pop into Special Teas. The knowledgeable staff can easily help you navigate the long list of teas’ distinct flavor profiles and brewing techniques.
More Fun Things to do in Victoria BC
Magic of Christmas at the Butchart Gardens
More than 3,000 lights transform The Butchart Gardens into a twinkling evening delight during The Magic of Christmas.
Ultimate Seattle, WA to Victoria, BC Weekend
Tucked within the Olympic Rainshadow, the small metropolitan hub gets 308 days a year with sunshine! So whether you’re looking for indoor activities or plenty of fresh air, there’s a wide variety of things to do in Victoria, BC.
Can’t Miss Day Spas in Victoria BC & Vancouver Island
From aromatic steam rooms to rejuvenating massages, let your body relax and be restored at these premier day spas in Victoria BC and Vancouver Island.
