Winter in Victoria BC

Welcome to cozy season in Victoria! While we may not get the frigid temperatures that the rest of Canada will see this season, it’s still the perfect excuse to stay indoors and master the art of hygge, as so aptly coined by the Danes, or bundle up and enjoy the rainy Pacific Northwest in all it’s glory. Here are my top 5 things to do this time of year in Victoria!

1. Warm Up With a Coffee or Tea

Nothing says winter quite like a steaming mug of something warm on a cold day. Whether you are a coffee or tea drinker, I have you covered because I happen to be both.

For coffee, we are blessed in this city to have no shortage of incredible local coffee shops to choose from in your efforts to boycott Starbucks (or is that just me…?). Here are my top 5 choices for a crème de la crème coffee in Victoria.

1. Hey Happy | Coffee, Breakfast, Baked Goods and Chill Space
2. Torch Song | Specialty Coffee, Vinyl and Books
3. Routine Coffee & Supply | To-Go Specialty Coffee
4. Saint Cecilia | Specialty Coffee, Pour Over and Chill Space
5. Union Pacific Coffee Co | Basic Coffee, Baked Goods and Chill Space

For my tea-lovers, I have three places for you to check out (and yes you need to visit all three please and thank you!).

1. Murchie’s for your pot of tea
2. Silk Road for your loose leaf tea
3. Jagasilk for your ceremony-grade matcha

Engagement photos by Rose Creative Co. at Torch Song Cafe.

2. HAVN Saunas

HAVN Saunas may be Downtown Victoria’s best kept secret. Although it’s not really a secret anymore. Not only is it literally floating on a barge (how cool?!), it also has one of the best views of the Inner Harbour and overlooks The Empress, Parliament Building and Seaplane Terminal. And you’re in luck, because winter happens to be the best time to sauna in my humble opinion.

The best time of day is first thing in the morning, to start the day on the best foot. Although late night is also perfect if you want a little discount and love admiring city lights at night. Plus, it’s the best way to unwind for the evening. Make sure to book a spot well in advance because it sells out!

3. Book a Photo Shoot in Victoria

Surprise! If the photos in this post don’t speak for themselves, I am a local photographer in Victoria and would love to capture your memories here. Let’s explore the city together or venture out to one of my favourite sunset spots in Victoria. Booking a photo session is a wonderful way to experience Victoria from a local’s POV and also make sure you capture memories with those you love most! Browse my portfolio or get in touch – I would love to meet you!

4. Shop Local in Downtown Victoria

There are four main shopping areas in Victoria where the locals go. If you are looking for the perfect souvenir or holiday gift for yourself or a loved one – you are certain to find something for anyone in these areas.

1. In & Around Chinatown: Fan Tan Home & Style, Public Mercantile, Best of Both Worlds Imports
2. Upper Fort Street: Luna Collective, The Vend Collective
3. Lower Johnson: Zingaro Floral Perfumery, Flavour, Good Vibe Space
4. Government Street: Munro’s Books, Merchant Quarters General Store, Roger’s Chocolates

Photos by Rose Creative Co in Victoria BC’s Chinatown on Fisgard Street, outside Munro’s Books on Government Street and Zingaro on Lower Johnson Street.

5. Indulge in Victoria’s Comfort Food Scene

Even more than shopping, I love to eat good food. That is why I have saved the best section for last. These are the places I truly crave on a cold winter’s day.

1. Ramen Arashi | As close to Japan as you can get in Victoria
2. Pho Vy | Excellent service paired with authentic broth
3. Wind Cries Mary | Boujee-on-a-budget, family-style menu with a sommelier
4. Norah Thai Kitchen | Outside of the city but 100% worth the drive
5. Jam Cafe | The best brunch in town

You have reached the end but it also could be the beginning. If you are looking for a local Victoria, BC photographer, get in touch! I would be delighted to meet you and capture your cozy winter memories.