Victoria
Victoria, commonly abbreviated as VIC, is a state in southeastern Australia.
It is the second most populous state with a population of over 7 million, and the second-smallest, with a land area of 227,444 square kilometres (87,817 sq mi), making it the most densely populated state in Australia. Named in honour of Queen Victoria, Victoria was separated from New South Wales and established as a separate Crown colony in 1851, achieving responsible government in 1855.
Getting to Victoria
As with other parts of Australia, Victoria enforces strict quarantine regulations to prevent the spread of pests and diseases that could damage local agriculture. Travellers are not permitted to bring fresh fruit, vegetables, or plant materials (including seeds or soil) into the state, particularly from interstate or from areas with known agricultural risks.
Worth seeing
Victoria's most famous coastal landmark is the Twelve Apostles along the Great Ocean Road. These towering limestone stacks rising from the Southern Ocean create a spectacular view, especially at sunrise and sunset. Lookouts and trails offer panoramic vistas, making this natural wonder a must-visit.
Things to do
Surf the coast: Ride the waves along Victoria’s famous surf coast, including iconic spots like Bells Beach and Phillip Island. Bushwalk in the Grampians: Explore the rugged beauty of the Grampians National Park, with its stunning walks through forests, past waterfalls, and up to spectacular lookouts.
Where to eat
Victoria’s culinary scene is renowned for its diversity and vibrancy, with Melbourne at the heart of it all. Known as Australia’s cultural and culinary capital, Melbourne offers a mix of fine dining, casual eats, and food trucks along the Yarra River and throughout its famous laneways. Outdoor dining has become especially popular, creating a lively atmosphere around the city’s many cafes and restaurants.
Getting around Victoria the local way
- Get in}} Victoria (Swartz Bay) ferry terminal is served by BC Transit.
- Get inRoute 70 operates between Victoria (Swartz Bay) ferry terminal and downtown Victoria via downtown Sidney and McTavish Exchange.
- Get inRoute 72 operates between Victoria (Swartz Bay) ferry terminal and downtown Victoria via downtown Sidney and McTavish Exchange.
- Get inAbout half an hour drive north of Victoria, there are ferry services in Sidney.
- Get inOperates routes from: Vancouver (Tsawwassen) ferry terminal (1 hour 35 minutes crossing.
- Get inVictoria (Swartz Bay) ferry terminal is served by BC Transit on several routes including Route 70, a limited stop bus route connecting to downtown Victoria via Sidney.
- Get inTravel time from the ferry terminal to downtown Victoria is around 45 to 55 minutes.
- Get inTravel time from the ferry terminal to downtown Victoria is around 55 minutes to 1 hour 15 minutes Victoria is a popular destination for boaters from the U.S.A.
From Wikivoyage: Victoria (British Columbia), CC BY-SA. Not yet checked by us. Last edited 2026-09.
Text adapted from Wikipedia and Wikivoyage, CC BY-SA 4.0. Photograph: Wikimedia Commons (see file page), Wikimedia Commons.