Best Hotels in Downtown Victoria BC

What are the best hotels in downtown Victoria? Truthfully, it's pretty subjective depending on your particular wants, needs and budget. With so many things to do in the downtown area, it is naturally where many people choose to stay. Victoria has an incredible walkability score of 99, making it a dream for vacationers who like to walk. But the convenience to nearby attractions usually comes at a price so expect to pay a lot more in order to stay in downtown Victoria.

This section lists the best hotels in downtown Victoria. Be sure to also check my pages for hotels in other parts of Greater Victoria:

• Burnside-Gorge/Mayfair area
• Rockland/Fairfield/Oak Bay area
• Airport, Saanich Peninsula and Sidney
• Western Communities/Malahat/Sooke

My directory with the best hotels in downtown Victoria is long and detailed. I have listed in alphabetical order, not in a ranking way. Once you decide your priorities, I'm confident the information presented here will help you pick the very best downtown Victoria hotel for your travels! Do your research here before going to one of those booking sites. My guide provides information that all travelers need in order to make the best decision for them. Note: I haven't had the opportunity to write an extensive review of every one of the hotels in downtown Victoria however they are being done regularly and the information added to this page often.

The Best Hotels in Downtown Victoria Listed Alphabetically

Bedford Regency Hotel

If location in the heart of Victoria is what you're looking for, the Bedford Regency Hotel is a good choice. This European-inspired boutique hotel is situated very close to the historic Bastion Square which is home to the Bastion Square Public Market in the summer.

The Bedford Regency is located on Government Street in Victoria which has the distinction of being the first Canadian street that was built west of the Rockies. It is renowned for its world-class shopping - the place to find unique clothing, accessories, gifts and souvenirs in Victoria.

With its perfect downtown location, guests at the Bedford enjoy easy access to the waterfront for numerous activities such as kayak rentals, a beautiful walk along the sea or the best fish and chips in town. 

The hotel itself usually features flower-filled window boxes outside of its 40 suites and 2 restaurants on site. Sadly the flowers have not planted been planted the last couple of years, seemingly due to COVID. 

Currently the city has blocked off Government Street to vehicular traffic to allow more room for social distancing. Check with the hotel directly for the current situation regarding access to parking.

• 1140 Government St., Victoria
• 250-384-6835
• 1-800-665-6500
• bedfordregency.com

Guest Comments

Guests of the Bedford Regency gave this property an overall rating of good. Some guests found the room cleanliness sub-par which may be a result of the hotel being under-staffed related to COVID.  While this is one of the best hotels in downtown victoria for the outstanding location, some people found the off-site parking somewhat inconvenient. There are some complaints of the suites being a bit noisy from the street traffic and interestingly other guests remarked how quiet it was! It may depend where your room is situated and how well you sleep when you're not in your own bed. 

Best Western Carlton Plaza

The Best Western Carlton Plaza is located in one of my favourite parts of downtown Victoria - LoJo! The district known as Lower Johnson or LoJo to locals, is one of the most charming and unique areas of the region. Guests at the Best Western Carlton Plaza enjoy easy access to the cutest boutiques that line Lower Johnson, the historic Market Square and one of the finest Italian dining establishments in the city - Il Terrazo. 

And speaking of eating, we have to give a shout out to the Ruby on Johnson. It's a small, funky eating establishment open for breakfast and lunch. The Ruby gets rave reviews and it is not uncommon for locals and visitors alike to wait in line for an open table. It's that good! Their sister location - the Ruby on Douglas - is on the premises of Hotel Zed on Douglas Street across from Mayfair Mall. It is equally as good!

Because of the idyllic location, guests of the Best Western Carlton Plaza also enjoy easy access to Victoria's waterfront where they can partake in activities such as kayaking, whale watching, a stroll along the Inner Harbour or an afternoon at the Royal BC Museum. And if performing arts are what you crave, the hotel is just one block from the famed McPherson Playhouse.

Guest Comments

Overall guests rate the hotel excellent for cleanliness, amenities and property condition although they note it is an older property. Guests find the staff friendly, helpful and knowledgeable of tourist sites and things to do. Unlike some of the other best hotels in downtown Victoria, the rooms do not have any water or mountain views. Some people found the rooms noisy from street traffic however everyone loves the super convenient location. 

Best Western Plus Inner Harbour

The Best Western Inner Harbour is situated in a prime location just steps from many of the attractions in downtown Victoria BC. In fact, there is almost nothing that is not within walking distance! With a fantastic walkability score of 99 in the downtown core, visitors can roam around all day, head back to their room for an afternoon nap and go out again for the evening.  

Guests particularly enjoy the easy access to the scenic 5km David Foster Harbour Pathway and the majestic Parliament Buildings. The British Columbia Parliament Buildings is one of my favourite spots for taking visitors. There are daily, free 45-minute tours where guests learn about the architecture of the building and history of our democracy. Follow that up with a very tasty and affordable lunch in the Parliamentary Dining Room for the perfect Canadian experience. Lunch is not included in the free tour. Hours of operation are dependent on the schedule of the Legislative Assemby. Check their website to confirm hours of operation. 

Other notable highlights of the area are the Robert Bateman Centre, Beacon Hill Park, Fisherman's Wharf and the Royal British Columbia Museum. 

For our American visitors, this hotel is located just a 2-minute walk from the Victoria Clipper Ferry Terminal and the Coho Ferry Terminal.

Because the hotel is part of the Best Western chain, you will experience the cleanliness and friendly, knowledgeable staff you have come to expect. And of course, you get rewards points!

• 412 Quebec St., Victoria
• 250-384-5122
• 1-888-383-2378
• victoriabestwestern.com

Guest Comments

Guests of the Best Western Inner Harbour give this property an overall rating of excellent. They especially liked the cleanliness, the location and the friendly, helpful staff. Some guests were disappointed at the lack of air conditioning - especially during our record-breaking heat wave in early July 2021 and they found it could be loud when several guests have their windows/patio doors open. Others commented that some windows lacked a screen covering. The complimentary breakfast seems to be a big hit though!

Chateau Victoria Hotel

Guests at the Chateau Victoria Hotel enjoy a central location in the heart of town, close to major downtown attractions and the waterfront. Within an easy couple minute walk, you will find the Royal BC Museum, The Robert Bateman Centre, the British Columbia Parliament Buildings, Miniature World and the Bug Zoo. If shopping for unique art, clothing, gifts and souvenirs is on your list, you will find it here. Try Government Street or one of the numerous squares and alleys lined with local boutiques. 

Is ping pong your thing? Chateau Victoria is just one block from Victoria's somewhat controversial outdoor ping pong table. The controversy comes from the cost that some taxpayers found frivolous. The city is expanding its pedestrian friendly vibe and the table was installed as part of a new downtown plaza. You'll have to pop into the Doubletree Hotel across the street to pick up a pair of paddles to use (unless you happen to travel with yours!). 

The hotel is home to two renowned establishments. The first is Vista 18 Westcoast Grill & Wine Bar on the 18th floor. The panoramic views from this location are spectacular, as is the food. The other is Clive’s Classic Lounge located on the lobby level. Clive's consistently receives accolades for their perfectly prepared cocktails. You can't go wrong with either - or both!

As for sleeping accommodations, Chateau Victoria has a few options including traditional guest rooms on the lower 3 levels, suites with balconies in the middle of the hotel and penthouse suites on the 16th and 17th floors. 

• 740 Burdett Ave., Victoria
• 250-382-4221
• 1-800-663-5891
• chateauvictoria.com

Amenities at Chateau Victoria Hotel

• Kitchen facilities
• Indoor swimming pool
• Hot tub
• Accessible/elevator
• Free WiFi
• Free newspapers
• Air conditioning
• Black-out curtains
• Free cribs/infant beds
• No-smoking
• Pet-friendly
• Water Views
• Fitness centre
• Laundry/dry cleaning service
• Charging stations for Tesla and conventional electric vehicles
• Complimentary shuttle to local attractions/venues (within 5 minute drive from hotel)
• Secure parking (approximately $15 per night)

With everything available on site, this is easily one of best hotels in downtown Victoria. 

Policies

• check-in 3:00 PM to midnight; early check-in subject to availability
• check-out is before 11:00 AM; late check-out subject to a fee and availability
• free cancellation policy
• extra beds/rollaway beds not available
• 2 dogs allowed in designated rooms; $25 plus taxes per pet per night
• dogs much be leashed at all times in common areas
• no pets on furniture
• Read the full pooch policy here

Guest Comments

Guests at Chateau Victoria give an overall rating of excellent. They remark that the staff are friendly and helpful, and the rooms and property clean. The location is awesome. Guests appreciate the doggie amenities that include towels, treats, bowls, bedding and poop bags. While the hotel is air conditioned, it may not be as efficient as some guests would prefer. Some people found the WiFi too slow and there was a lack of parking and parking spots a little tight. 

Coast Hotel

The Coast Hotel is formally known as Coast Victoria Hotel & Marina by APA. That's quite the mouthful, so locals just call it The Coast. With its amazing harbourfront location and the only hotel in Victoria with its own marina, The Coast delivers an unforgettable travel experience. In fact, if you moor your boat at one of their 52 slips located in the outer harbour, you get full access to all the hotel facilities such as the fitness centre, pool, WiFi and more! It's no wonder many consider it one of the best hotels in downtown Victoria!

Guests at the Coast Hotel also enjoy convenient access to the David Foster Harbour Pathway which is a 5 km harbourfront cycling and pedestrian pathway located just outside the doors of the hotel. This pathway makes for a beautiful, easy walk to Fisherman's Wharf or towards the inner harbour and downtown. Nearby attractions include the Parliament Buildings, the Royal BC Museum, Thunderbird Park and the Robert Bateman Gallery. 

• 146 Kingston St., Victoria
• 250-360-1211
• 1-800-663-1144
• coasthotels.com

Amenities at Coast Hotel Victoria

• Indoor-outdoor ocean-view swimming pool
• Accessible
• Pet-friendly
• Water views from many rooms
• Free in-room coffee and tea
• Microwave and mini fridge
• Free newspapers
• Elevator
• Air-conditioned rooms
• Fitness centre
• Whirlpool
• Sauna
• On-site 52 slip marina
• Free WiFi
• Business centre
• Free downtown shuttle service
• Electric vehicle charging station
• Gates underground parking
• On-site seafood restaurant - The Blue Crab
• Dishes, food and beds for your furry friend
• Collect points with your Aeroplan, Alaska Airlines or More Rewards cards

Policies

• Consult the marina website directly for rates and cancellation policies
• 2 pets permitted per room; specific rooms only; nightly pet fee is $25 per pet; service animals exempt from fees
• Parking $20 per night
• Free crib/infant beds
• Rollaway/extra beds not available
• Check-in: 4:00 pm to 11:30 pm
• Check-out: Before 11:00 am; late check-out subject to a fee and availability

Guest Comments

Guests at the Coast Hotel gave an overall rating of excellent. All guests raved about the location and the views and they loved the indoor-outdoor pool. Some guests found the underground parking tight and it did not accommodate over-height vehicles. Alternate arrangements need to be made. Many guests found the interior of the rooms a bit dated though they noted it was clean and provided all the amenities you come to expect from the Coast brand. People seemed to have differing impressions of the staff with some finding them friendly and accommodating and others thought there was room for improvement. 

Days Inn on the Harbour

When you think location, location, location then The Days Inn on the Harbour delivers. As the name implies, it is right on the harbour and directly across the street from the Coho vehicle ferry terminal. The Coho terminal (formally known as the Blackball Ferry Terminal) is right beside the Clipper foot passenger ferry terminal. It doesn't get more convenient than that for our American visitors. 

In addition to the very convenient ferry terminals, guests at the Days Inn on the Harbour can literally step outside and be in the heart of the action. Beside the Blackball ferry terminal is the Robert Bateman Gallery housed in the stately Canadian Pacific Railway Steamship Terminal building. The original steamship building was torn down in 1924 and replaced with the current one in 1926. Once the steamship terminated their passenger service the building was utilized for other businesses including Madame Tussaud's Wax Museum for over 50 years until it closed in 2010. The Province renovated and upgraded the building in 2016 and it has been home to the Robert Bateman Gallery, a Starbucks and the Steamship Grill & Bar since.  

Also nearby is the Parliament Buildings where you can enjoy a free 45-minute tour (tickets available out front), the Royal BC Museum and IMAX theatre and of course, the bustling inner harbour. With a fantastic walkability score of 99 in downtown Victoria, the city begs you to explore. And when you're done for the day, relax by the pool at Days Inn on the Harbour or enjoy the stunning views from the patio. The hotel is not air conditioned.

• 427 Belleville St., Victoria
• 250-386-3451
• 1-800-665-3024
• daysinnvictoria.com

Guest Comments

Overall guests to the property gave a rating of good. They loved the location - and who wouldn't if convenience to the harbour and multiple dining options is what you want when considering the best hotels in downtown Victoria. They also commented that due to the location, some found it noisy. Some guests found the temperature of the rooms unbearable as there is no air conditioning although there are balconies. Also, it was noted that the property is somewhat dated and dingy but clean. Guests love the free on-site parking but thought there wasn't enough to accommodate all the visitors. 

Delta Ocean Pointe Resort

The Delta Ocean Pointe Resort is situated at the mouth of the inner harbour, looking out towards downtown. The name of the hotel is sometimes confusing to locals as some know it as The Delta, others call it Ocean Pointe and some refer to the broader branding of Marriott. More often than not though, we call it "the one on the other side of the bridge". The Delta Ocean Pointe Resort has the distinction of being on the "other side" of the Blue Bridge. Which is also known as the Johnson Street bridge - just to confuse matters even more! The Blue Bridge (which actually isn't even blue anymore except when it is lit up at night) is an articulating bridge that raises to allow tall boats into the Upper Harbour - mostly heading to Point Hope Shipyards. The whole process of raising and lowering the bridge is quick, and fascinating to watch so no need to be concerned about being stuck on one side of the bridge or the other for long periods of time (see below for a photo of the hotel with the bridge raised in the background). 

Guests at the Delta Ocean Pointe Resort have access to an on-site tennis court and they are mere minutes from the very trendy shopping district of LoJo - Lower Johnson. An absolute favourite dining experience in the area is Il Terrazo - an exquisite Italian dining establishment or check out what's brewing at Swans Brewery Pub. There is a walkway that passes along the front of the hotel taking you right into town or hop on the Harbour Ferry water taxi service to visit Fisherman's Wharf across the harbour.

The breathtaking views and stunning location make the Delta Ocean Point Resort a favourite with travellers and absolutely one of the best hotels in downtown Victoria.

• 100 Harbour Road, Victoria
• 250-360-2999
• 1-800-268-1133
• marriott.com

Amenities at Delta Ocean Pointe Resort

• Water views
• Pet-friendly
• Kitchen facilities
• Complimentary bottled water
• Free WiFi
• Air conditioned 
• Indoor swimming pool
• Whirlpool
• Fitness centre
• On-site parking ($20 self park; $30 valet daily) - check with the hotel directly for height restrictions
• On-site restaurant
• Mobility accessible rooms
• Connecting/adjoining rooms available
• Non-smoking facility
• Tennis courts

Policies

• Check-in 4:00 PM to midnight
• Check-out by 11:00 AM; late check-out for a fee subject to availability
• Free cancellation
• 2 pets up to 23kg max (apx 50 pounds) $25 per night up to $100 per 7 days; service animals exempt from fees
  
• Pull-out sofabed and rollaway beds available

Guest Comments

Guests of the Delta Ocean Pointe Resort give an overall rating of excellent for this property. They especially love the location and the views. Some guests were put off that rooms with better views cost more, but that is pretty standard wherever you go. Guests also enjoyed the tennis courts, fitness facilities and the running/walking pathway right outside the hotel doors. Some people felt that parking should have been included in the price of the room and were disappointed that there was no nearby on-street parking. The on-site restaurant gets mixed reviews with some people loving it and others felt the selection and portions were less than desirable. Overall most guests are very happy with their experience.

Double Tree Hotel Victoria

The Double Tree Hotel Victoria is one of several prime downtown hotels that really is in the heart of everything. Just steps from many of the attractions in downtown Victoria BC including the inner harbour, the BC Parliament Buildings, the Royal BC Museum, the Robert Bateman Centre and Christ Church Cathedral. Christ Church Cathedral is one of many older churches in the downtown core that are admired for their history and architecture. Use this information to create your own walking tour of our local churches.

And when we talk about nearby attractions we can't forget about the one that is literally outside the doors of the Double Tree Hotel Victoria - a ping pong table! That's right, a portion of the road has been blocked to vehicular traffic with a pedestrian plaza built featuring a stainless steel ping pong table. Borrow paddles from the front desk at the hotel.

If you are ready to explore the city, you will be delighted to know that Victoria boasts an incredible walkability score of 99 in the downtown core. Visitors can roam around all day on flat, easy terrain, head back to their room for an afternoon nap and go out again for the evening! 

• 777 Douglas St., Victoria
• 250-940-3100
• 1-800-663-7001
• doubletree3.hilton.com

Guests rate the Double Tree Hotel Victoria as excellent. They absolutely love the location and the views from the rooms. They found the hotel clean with friendly staff. Some guests commented that they found the rooms small while others thought they were a good size - may depend on what you have booked. Same with the beds - some people found them comfy and others not so much. Most everyone agreed that they disliked paying to park and with no valet option, they found this a bit annoying. The onsite restaurant is a hit as was the Starbucks.

Embassy Inn Hotel

The Embassy Inn Hotel is an unassuming lodging option located directly across from the British Columbia Parliament Buildings in the neighbourhood of James Bay. Several favourite activities for visitors and locals alike are located mere steps from the front doors of the Embassy Inn Hotel. These include a free guided tour of the Parliament Building (get tickets out front); having lunch at the historic Legislative Dining Room and enjoying an iconic horse-drawn carriage ride through the streets and parks of Victoria.  

Given the incredible location of the Embassy Inn Hotel, everything you want to do in downtown Victoria is an easy, flat walk. Also nearby the hotel are the Royal BC Museum, Thunderbird Park, the Robert Bateman Centre and the Emily Carr House. Take a stroll on the causeway of the inner harbour, shop on Government Street and immerse yourself in the sights and culture in Canada's oldest Chinatown. Victoria truly is a magical place to visit and a stay at this hotel puts you so convenient to it all! 

• 520 Menzies St., Victoria
• 250-382-8161
• 1-800-268-8161
• embassyinn.ca

Guest Comments

Overall guests are very pleased with their stay at the Embassy Inn Hotel and would highly recommend to other travellers. They especially like the ultra convenient location, free breakfast and free parking. The hotel is completing some renovations in early 2022 and guests are already raving about the updated rooms and washrooms. Some guests did note that the heating system was a bit antiquated, it could be noisy near the elevator/ice machine and there wasn't much in the way of a view. 

The Empress Hotel

The Empress Hotel, formally known as the Fairmont Empress, has been a landmark in Victoria's Inner Harbour since its opening in 1908. Just two years later the hotel underwent a significant expansion and then again in 1928. Within the past ten years, the hotel has undergone significant renovation, the most visible to the public is the removal of ivy from the facade and the addition of the covered grand entrance. The Empress Hotel remains a significant presence on Victoria's waterfront and was recognized as a National Historic Site in January of 1981. It truly is one of the best hotels in downtown Victoria.

Guests at the Empress enjoy what is arguably the best location in the city with the Royal BC Museum and Parliament buildings on one side, the inner harbour causeway directly across the street and the main downtown core on the other side. The hotel boasts an astounding 464 guest rooms and suites, many of which with magnificant harbour, city and garden views. And of course, the highlight for many guests is Afternoon Tea at the Empress. It's a tradition that is enjoyed by more than 400 guests daily and dates back to the hotel's opening. An unforgettable experience not to be missed! Read more about Tea at the Empress.

• 721 Government St., Victoria
• 250-384-8111
• 1-866-540-4429
• fairmont.com/empress-victoria

Guest Comments

Overall guests at the Empress Hotel give the property a rating of excellent. They loved the historic architectural features, cleanliness of the hotel, polite and professional staff, the well manicured gardens and the perks such as complimentary bicycles. Guests found the rooms and the gym to be a bit small and some were disappointed to learn that parking and WiFi was not included in the room rate. Note: WiFi is free when you sign up for their loyalty program. 

Hotel Grand Pacific

The Hotel Grand Pacific Victoria is prominently located beside the BC Parliament Buildings on Victoria's spectacular waterfront. Few hotels match the elegance, amenities, location and views that the Hotel Grand Pacific Victoria offers. It is classed as a 4.5 star hotel and was built in the 1990's. In 2015 it underwent some renovations to refurbish the exterior and replace some windows and patio doors.  The hotel remains one of the most desirable and best hotels in downtown Victoria. 

Guests at the Hotel Grand Pacific enjoy spectacular views of the inner harbour and close proximity to every major downtown attraction. The downtown core is considered extremely walkable with a score of 99 (out of 100!) making this hotel ideal for visiting places such as The Robert Bateman Centre, the Royal BC Museum and IMAX theatre, Thunderbird Park, Miniature World, Chinatown, Bastion Square and Beacon Hill Park. There is nothing downtown that is not convenient to this location.

• 463 Belleville St., Victoria
• 250-386-0450
• 1-800-663-7550
• hotelgrandpacific.com

Guest Comments

Overall guests are very happy with their stay at the Hotel Grand Pacific Victoria. They are especially appreciative of the cleanliness of the rooms, the helpful and attentive staff, the incredible views and the outstanding location. Some people wished the parking was included in the room rate (who doesn't wish for free parking, right?) and some guests felt the restaurant pricing was a bit steep. Some guests found the facilities showing their age and in fact as of fall of 2021, some rooms have yet to be refreshed although a renovation is in progress.

Huntingdon Manor

Huntingdon Manor is an English country-style hotel that is right next door to its sister property - The Pendray Inn and Tea House. Together these properties provide guests with the accommodations, amenities and old world charm they want to enjoy their stay in the heart of downtown Victoria.

The independent, family-owned hotel sits on a prominent corner in Victoria overlooking the inner harbour. It is directly across the street from the Clipper and Coho ferry terminals, with Fisherman's wharf a few steps in one direction and the BC Parliament Buildings just a few steps in the other. Other popular attractions that are all very close or within an easy walking distance include The Robert Bateman Centre, the Royal BC Museum and IMAX theatre, Thunderbird Park, Beacon Hill Park, Miniature World, The Bug Zoo, the David Foster Harbourfront Walkway, the Inner Harbour and causeway and the Government Street shopping district. 

With so much to see and do in downtown Victoria you may wonder if you need to go anywhere else! You'll need to book a guide or a tour if you want to visit our world-renowned Butchart Gardens because it is not walking distance and we highly recommend a tour to the western edges of the island. Compare our most popular tours here. 

• 330 Quebec St., Victoria
• 250-381-3456
• 1-800-663-7557
• huntingdonmanor.com

Amenities at Huntingdon Manor

• Free WiFi
• Complimentary breakfast
• Pet friendly; dog beds available
• Accessible
• Elevator
• Air conditioned
• Complimentary (one-way) shuttle service
• Airport shuttle (surcharge)
• Business centre
• Electric car charging station
• On-site restaurant
• Afternoon tea available (surcharge)
• Discounted bicycle rentals
  
• Bicycle repair services
• Kitchen facilities - rooms available and equipped for long-term stays
• Laundry facilities
• Luggage storage
• Underground parking (surcharge)
• Outdoor picnic area and gardens

Policies

• Check-in: 4 pm to midnight
• Late check-in subject to availability
• Must be at least 19 years of age with valid credit card to check-in
• Check-out: before 11 am
• Hotel room cancellations require 24 hour notice to avoid charges/taxes
• Specialty package cancellations require 14 days notice to avoid charges/taxes
• Pets permitted in designated pet-friendly rooms only; receive a complimentary water bowl, waste bag holder and pet treats; dog beds available upon request
• Pet fee is $25 per pet per night
• Crib/infant beds are not available

Guest Comments

Guests of the Huntingdon Manor give this hotel an overall rating of good. Everyone loves the stellar location, they felt the rooms were spacious and comfortable. This is an historic property and it is showing its age with some guests commenting about the tired look and need for exterior painting. Parking is a concern for many. There is a lack of overheight vehicle parking, insufficient parking in general and tight spots. Guests love the breakfast and found the staff to be generally helpful and polite. 

Inn at Laurel Point in Victoria

Guests of the Inn at Laurel Point in Victoria enjoy a spectacular waterfront location situated at the gateway to the Outer Harbour. The Inn overlooks Fisherman's Wharf to the left and the renowned Inner Harbour to the right. Step outside the hotel immediately onto the David Foster Harbour Pathway and enjoy a short stroll into town. Or hop on one of the convenient water taxis for a fun and quick trip across the harbour. Nearby attractions include Fisherman's Wharf, the Royal BC Museum, Thunderbird Park, the Robert Bateman Centre and the British Columbia Parliament Buildings. The Inn at Laurel Point is undergoing renovations that are expected to be completed in the summer of 2022. It remains one of the premier hotel properties in Victoria and a popular location for weddings and galas.

• 680 Montreal St., Victoria
• 250-386-8721
• 1-800-663-7667
• laurelpoint.com

Guest Comments

Guests of the Inn at Laurel Point in Victoria give the hotel an overall ranking of excellent. They love the cleanliness of the property, the friendly staff, spectacular location and stunning views from their balconies. Many people enjoy watching the sea planes take off and land (did you know the inner harbour is an official water airport?) and the rest of the marine traffic in the very busy harbour. Some guests found the rooms to be smaller than they expected and somewhat outdated. (Renovations are currently underway with an expected completion date of August 2022). 

Oswego Hotel

When my co-workers travel to Victoria, the Oswego Hotel is the accommodation of choice for many of them. They especially love the room amenities and convenient location; two of the many features visitors to the city will also appreciate. The all-suite boutique hotel is nestled in the residential neighbourhood of James Bay, just two blocks from the Inner Harbour. A perfect combination of quiet for sleeping and easy access to the activities of downtown Victoria. It's no wonder it is considered one of the best hotels in downtown Victoria.

The Oswego Hotel is especially convenient to the Inner Harbour, the Royal BC Museum and Thunderbird Park, the BC Parliament Buildings, the Robert Bateman Centre and the Washington State ferry terminals. I also highly recommend a local eatery that even the locals line up for - Floyd's Diner (a bright pink building on the corner of Menzies and Superior). Finish breakfast on a Saturday morning in the summer and walk across the street to take in the James Bay community market featuring goods that are handmade, homemade and homegrown.

• 500 Oswego St., Victoria
• 250-940-7500
• 1-855-737-2685
• oswegohotelvictoria.com

Guest Comments

Oswego Hotel guests are wowed by the hotel, giving an overall rating of excellent. They especially like the cleanliness of the rooms and the fantastic location. People appreciated the quiet residential neighbourhood and full kitchens. They noted that there is no central air however rooms have ceiling fans and balconies. 

Royal Scot Hotel Victoria

The Royal Scot Hotel and Suites offers travelers a superb location just one block from Victoria's famous Inner Harbour. Guests enjoy convenient access to sites such as Fisherman's Wharf, the Royal BC Museum and the British Columbia Parliament Buildings. The hotel is an established property in the James Bay neighbourhood. The hotel features 177 rooms in a mix of standard sized rooms, one and two-bedroom suites - many with outdoor balconies. The Royal Scot Hotel also boasts family-friendly amenities such as a billiards table, shuffleboard table and games room with board games and puzzles.   

• 425 Quebec St., Victoria
• 250-388-5463
• 1-800-663-7515
• royalscot.com

Amenities at the Royal Scot Hotel

• Pet-friendly
• Free WiFi in public areas
• Accessible/elevator
• Kitchen facilities
• Onsite restaurant
• Smoke-free facility
• Fitness centre
• Indoor salt water swimming pool
• Whirlpool
• Sauna
• Billiards table
• Shuffleboard table
• Games room
• Gift shop featuring original artwork, paperback novels and sundry items
• Free shuttle to the Clipper/Coho/float planes and downtown core (during bellman hours)
• Onsite above-ground and covered parking (for a fee)
• Electric vehicle charging station
• Bike friendly
• Laundry facilities
  
• Rollaway/extra beds available for a fee
  
• Business services
• 1 and 2-bedroom suites available
• Activity program during winter months (Jan-Apr) may include evening bingo, afternoon tea, card nights, movie nights, wine & cheese social and more

Policies

• Check-in from 4 PM - midnight
• Minimum check-in age - 19
• Check-out before 11 AM
• Up to 2 children stay free when using existing bedding
• Rollaway/extra beds $25 per night
• Dog-friendly rooms must be booked directly with the hotel
  
• Pet owner must bring all bedding, feeding and drinking dishes and food 
• Dogs are not to be left unattended in the room, or in any other area on the hotel premises
• No more than two dogs are allowed in a room or suite 
  
• A minimum charge of $50 per dog per stay; refer to the hotel website for full pet policy

Guest Comments

Guests of the Royal Scot Hotel in Victoria give the property an overall ranking of good to excellent. The location comes highly recommended and they liked the quiet, tree-lined residential street. Most guests appreciated the spacious, clean rooms and friendly staff however they noted that the hotel is older and could use some updating including newer mattresses. Guests also noted that the Royal Scot is not air conditioned and not every room includes a balcony. 

Swans Hotel and Brewpub

Swans Hotel offers visitors a unique guest experience at a heritage property. Built in 1913 as a warehouse, Swans Hotel has been restored as a  31-room boutique hotel, retaining much of the original brick and wood beams. Each of the suites is distinctive with individual features such as harbour views, high ceilings, exposed beams and original artwork. 

 If you want to stay in downtown Victoria, look no further than Swans Hotel and Brewpub. They are situated right in the heart of town on the edge of Chinatown, directly across from the Johnson Street Bridge (also known as the "Blue Bridge" - just wait for night and you'll find out why!), steps from historic Market Square and close to every restaurant, pub and shopping destination your heart desires. 

About 3-4 blocks away you will find popular tourist spots such as the Parliament Buildings, the Royal BC Museum and IMAX Theatre, Thunderbird Park, Miniature World, The Bug Zoo and the iconic inner harbour - a popular destination for whale watching excursions. 

• 506 Pandora Ave., Victoria
• 250-361-3310
• 1-800-668-7926
• swanshotel.com

Guest Comments

Overall guests of Swans Hotel rate their experience as very good. All guests loved the location and the ultra unique and spacious rooms - these are not cookier-cutter hotel rooms! Reviews on the noise level were fairly mixed with some finding it noisy (the hotel does sit at a major intersection right downtown) and others seemed pleasantly surprised at how quiet it was. Guests found the staff friendly and helpful and the property to be clean. There is recognition that this is a heritage building yet some guests still thought the hotel would benefit from updates. Visitors to Swans Hotel and Brewpub found it somewhat inconvenient to have parking located off-site, especially during inclement weather or when travelling with large groups/families.  

So that's it for some of the best hotels in downtown Victoria. If you prefer to save a little money and stay further away, be sure to check out my other accommodations listings. Still didn't find what you're looking for? Try my listing of B&B or camping spots close to Victoria. 

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