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Victoria International Airport (YYJ) is the main airport serving Victoria, the capital city of British Columbia, located on the southern tip of Vancouver Island. It is one of Canada’s most charming airports, offering a smooth, friendly, and efficient travel experience for passengers. Whether you’re arriving on a domestic flight from another Canadian city or an international flight, YYJ serves as the perfect starting point for exploring the beauty of Vancouver Island and the surrounding region.
In this guide, we’ll take you through everything you need to know about Victoria International Airport (YYJ), including the airport’s facilities, local and international connectivity, nearby attractions, transport options, best time to visit, and food choices. Whether you're here for a short stopover or a longer vacation, this guide will help you plan a seamless travel experience.
Victoria International Airport (YYJ) is located approximately 25 kilometers (16 miles) north of downtown Victoria, near the town of Sidney, on Vancouver Island. Despite its relatively small size, YYJ is well-equipped to handle both domestic and international flights, particularly from major Canadian cities and destinations in the United States, Mexico, and other international locations.
The airport is modern, clean, and has all the essential amenities that travelers need to feel comfortable, including comfortable seating, charging stations, free Wi-Fi, and shopping options. It also provides easy access to nearby natural beauty, historical sites, and the charming city of Victoria.
One of the key aspects of Victoria International Airport is its accessibility and connectivity to Victoria and the wider Vancouver Island region. Whether you’re flying domestically or internationally, YYJ provides multiple options for travelers to get around the region.
Public Transport: Public buses serve the airport, providing an affordable option for getting to downtown Victoria. The BC Transit bus service operates routes that link the airport to the city and other destinations on the island. The Route 72 bus runs directly to Victoria, with a travel time of around 30-40 minutes.
Taxis and Ride-Sharing: Taxis are readily available outside the terminal. The taxi fare to downtown Victoria is usually around CAD 30-40, depending on traffic. For a more flexible option, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft also operate at the airport.
Car Rentals: If you prefer to explore Vancouver Island at your own pace, car rental services are available at the airport. Major car rental agencies such as Enterprise, Hertz, and Avis operate on-site, allowing travelers to rent a car directly from the terminal.
Though it’s a smaller airport compared to larger Canadian hubs, YYJ is well-connected to major cities in Canada, the United States, and Mexico. Travelers can easily access Victoria from Vancouver, Calgary, Toronto, Seattle, and Los Angeles, among other locations. The airport also has seasonal international flights to destinations like Mexico.
The airport is well-equipped with customs and immigration services to facilitate the smooth arrival of international travelers. For those flying domestically, the airport offers connections to major cities across Canada, including Vancouver, Calgary, and Toronto.
Victoria, the capital city of British Columbia, is rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. There is no shortage of things to do and see, and many of the city’s top attractions are within easy reach of Victoria International Airport. Whether you have just a few hours or several days to explore, here are some of the best sights and activities around the airport:
One of the most iconic attractions near YYJ, Butchart Gardens is a world-renowned botanical garden located about 20 minutes from the airport by car. The gardens are open year-round and feature beautifully landscaped flower beds, a Japanese garden, a rose garden, and an impressive water fountain. This is an essential stop for nature lovers, offering a peaceful environment to explore and relax.
A short ferry ride from Sidney, which is close to the airport, brings you to Sidney Spit National Park Reserve. The park is part of Gulf Islands National Park Reserve and offers excellent opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, swimming, and picnicking. It’s also a great place for birdwatching and exploring marine life.
Once you head into downtown Victoria, make sure to check out the Inner Harbour, a beautiful waterfront area lined with historic buildings, museums, shops, and restaurants. The iconic Parliament Buildings, the Fairmont Empress Hotel, and the Royal BC Museum are all located here. The harbour is also home to several boat tours, including whale-watching excursions, which are a must-do if you’re visiting during the right season.
Located in the Inner Harbour, the Royal BC Museum is one of the finest museums in Canada. It offers fascinating exhibits on British Columbia's natural and cultural history. From ancient artifacts to modern displays, this museum is a great way to learn about the history of the region.
For a touch of history, visit Craigdarroch Castle, an opulent Victorian mansion built in the 19th century. The castle offers guided tours that provide a glimpse into the lives of the wealthy during the late 1800s. It’s a short drive from downtown Victoria and well worth a visit for history enthusiasts.
Victoria is one of the best places in the world to go whale watching. Southern resident orcas are frequently spotted in the waters off the coast of Vancouver Island. Several tour companies operate from Victoria’s Inner Harbour, offering half-day or full-day whale-watching tours.
Victoria to Vancouver: 100 kilometers (62 miles) by ferry or a 30-minute flight. The ferry ride between Tsawwassen (near Vancouver) and Swartz Bay (near Victoria) takes about 1 hour and 35 minutes.
Victoria to Seattle: Approximately 230 kilometers (143 miles), about a 2.5-hour drive. You can also take a ferry from Victoria’s Inner Harbour to Seattle directly (seasonal service).
Victoria to Nanaimo: Around 110 kilometers (68 miles), approximately 1.5 hours by car or ferry.
Victoria International Airport has several dining options for travelers, from quick bites to sit-down meals:
Tim Hortons: For a quick breakfast or snack, Tim Hortons offers a selection of coffee, baked goods, and sandwiches.
BC Bistro & Bakery: For something more substantial, BC Bistro & Bakery offers a variety of fresh, local dishes, including sandwiches, salads, and baked treats.
The JetSet Bar & Grill: If you have more time, JetSet Bar & Grill offers a full menu, including classic Canadian dishes and international fare, in a relaxed, casual setting.
The Pantry: A great option for grab-and-go snacks, fresh fruit, and drinks. The Pantry offers healthy choices for travelers on the move.
Apart from taxi and ride-sharing services, there are several other transportation options to and from Victoria International Airport:
Public Transit: As mentioned, BC Transit offers bus service from the airport to downtown Victoria and other parts of the island.
Shuttle Services: Some hotels offer shuttle services to and from the airport, so it’s a good idea to check with your accommodation in advance.
Car Rentals: For those who want flexibility, renting a car from one of the on-site rental agencies is a popular option.
Victoria is known for its mild climate, but the best time to visit depends on what you’re looking for:
Summer (June to August): The summer months are the most popular time to visit, with warm weather and plenty of outdoor activities. This is also the peak season for whale watching.
Spring (April to May): Spring is a great time to visit if you prefer fewer crowds. The gardens and parks are in full bloom, especially Butchart Gardens.
Fall (September to November): Fall offers cooler temperatures, fewer tourists, and beautiful fall foliage, making it a lovely time to explore the outdoors.
Winter (December to February): Winter is less crowded, but still a great time for sightseeing. The weather is mild compared to the rest of Canada, though there is occasional rain.
