Victoria is the place to go in Canada if you want to embrace British life. Wait, what?
Yes, if you’re in North America but can’t get to London, this is your best bet. The capital of British Columbia, you’ll find many daytrippers from Vancouver and Seattle here enjoying the city’s pubs and sampling the best fish and chips in Canada.
To truly enjoy the city, I’d suggest more than a day trip. So, you’ll need to think about somewhere to stay. Rather than a dull chain hotel or a noisy hostel, how about vacation rentals in Victoria? A home away from home, they’re great value for money and have bags of character. The only problem is, it can take a while to find the one for you!
Let us help you out. I’ve put together a list of the best Airbnbs in Victoria, taking into account everything from budget and location to travel style. Not only that, I’ve found the top five Airbnb Experiences, too. Let’s get planning your vacation together!
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Quick Answer: These are the Top 5 Airbnbs in Victoria
Industrial Loft in Downtown Victoria
- > $$
- > 4 Guests
- > Free parking
- > In a historical building
Centrally Located Entire Condo
- > $
- > 5 Guests
- > Free parking
- > Shared pool and fitness center
Exquisite Downtown Luxury Condo
- > $$$$$$$
- > 4 Guests
- > Rooftop terrace with fireplace
- > Views of the Empress and Olympic Mountains
Bedroom in Downtown Victoria
- > $
- > 2 Guests
- > Self-check-in
- > Access to shared spaces
Private Room Skylight Loft
- > $$
- > 3 Guests
- > Laptop-friendly workspace
- > Mezzanine queen bed
What to Expect from Airbnbs in Victoria
Unlike neighbouring Vancouver, Victoria doesn’t have loads of high-rise buildings. You can be assured that no matter where you stay, you won’t be miles off the ground! Instead, expect a blend of colonial splendour with more modern offerings around the harbour, boasting splendid views of the surrounding landscapes that Victoria is so famous for.
There’s a very local feeling when it comes to Airbnbs in Victoria. Your hosts will know the area like the back of their hands and be only too happy to share their recommendations on things to do and see.
With the largest and most luxurious Airbnbs, you may be welcomed by a business instead of a local host; however, that shouldn’t have any effect on your stay.
Entire flats are probably the most common property on Airbnb. But that doesn’t mean you’ll be getting something drab and run of the mill in Victoria.
Entire flats here can be anything from a penthouse overlooking the city’s pretty harbour to a heritage loft packed with house plants and bursting in character.
If you want a true home away from home rather than a flat, a townhouse is probably your best bet. With entire houses boasting multiple bedrooms, fully equipped kitchens, lovely living areas, and sometimes even a garden, they’re wonderful if you’re travelling with a group of friends or family.
Bed and breakfasts are top places to stay for so many reasons. Somewhere between a hostel and hotel, they’re often perfect if you’re on a budget.
The Top 15 Airbnbs in Victoria
Well, you now know all about why you should stay in a vacation rental, so let’s check out the best ones. Here are the 15 best Airbnbs in Victoria. Hopefully, you will find a place to stay in this list!
Industrial Loft in Downtown Victoria | Overall Best Value Airbnb in Victoria
Looking for a great value Airbnb in Victoria? You just found it. This two story heritage loft apartment is in a historic building in Downtown Victoria and has space for up to four guests. Designed using exposed brick walls, polished concrete floors, and rustic wood furnishings, this is one stylish apartment!
It comes with one bedroom, a modern bathroom and a fully equipped kitchen. There’s even a small and secluded patio outside.
Since you’re in a great location downtown, you are within walking distance of all the main attractions such as the Royal BC Museum. After a busy day of exploring, chill out in front of the smart TV or curl up with a book in the bathtub.
Entire Condo in the City Centre | Best Budget Airbnb in Victoria
Just a hop, skip, and a jump from Downtown Victoria in the beautiful Inner Harbor district, you have this wonderful budget condo. With one bedroom, a huge living area with a library and sofa bed, plus a balcony to chill out on, there’s plenty to keep you entertained here.
After a day of exploring the town, head to the condo’s shared pool or fitness center. Or cook up a storm in the fully equipped kitchen. If you’re travelling with a small group, this is the perfect budget vacation rental in Victoria.
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View on Osprey View on REIExquisite Downtown Luxury Condo | Over the Top luxury Airbnb in Victoria
This luxury entire condo in Downtown is everything you could ask for in Victoria. The views of the Olympic and Empress mountains are sure to take your breath away, so why not enjoy them on the roof terrace in front of the fire.
There are cocktail making facilities, so do it with an Old Fashioned in your hand. If you prefer to go up in the morning, there’s freshly roasted coffee in the apartment for you, too.
Bedroom in Downtown Victoria | Perfect Airbnb for Solo Travellers
Solo travellers often are advised to pick one of the many hostels in Victoria. However, not everyone wants to stay somewhere that can get quite noisy and crowded. Look at a homestay instead.
This bedroom near Downtown Victoria has everything you’ll need for a comfy stay that won’t cost the earth. You’ve got access to the shared spaces in the house, too, so catch up with your host if you don’t want to spend the evening in your room alone.
Private Room Skylight Loft | Perfect Airbnb for Digital Nomads
This cool and cute room is everything a digital nomad could hope for from Victoria vacation rentals. Not only does it have a laptop-friendly workspace and fast Wi-Fi, but it’s also in the heart of James Bay – a stone’s throw from Downtown.
As well as your quirky room, you’ve got access to the communal kitchen and a shared bathroom. Because the room has its own living area, you can kick back when you’re not working.
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Hide Yo’ Money!More Epic Airbnbs in Victoria
Here are a few more of my favorite Airbnbs in Victoria!
Boho-Chic Character Loft | Most Romantic Airbnb for Couples
See that photo above? That’s the view you’ll get when you wake up from your king bed on the mezzanine that overlooks the living area.
This beautiful flat is an architectural marvel, and it’s sure to sweep your other half off your feet. As well as what you can see above, you’ll get a rooftop BBQ. It’s all located in a heritage building, where you’ll share the gated courtyard with other residents.
Entire Rental Unit in James Bay | Best Airbnb in Victoria for Families
If you’re looking for a place to stay with your family, you can’t go wrong with this home in James Bay. It has a beautiful porch with BBQ and seating area, a spacious living area with a fire place and three good-sized bedrooms.
It’s also another historic building in Victoria, built in 1907, and it’s within walking distance of downtown and Inner Harbor. There’s also a full kitchen, Netflix, a sauna and free parking.
Harborfront Studio in Heritage Building | Best Flat in Victoria
A minimalist apartment set in a hotel, this gorgeous studio is a wonderful vacation rental to enjoy the city from.
The floor to ceiling windows and open plan living area give you a feeling of space and relaxation, as well as views out over the harbour.
Don’t want to cook in the kitchen? Head up to the rooftop patio and throw something on the BBQ. I recommend doing so at sunset!
Luxury Townhouse, Quebec Street | Best Townhouse in Victoria
The traditional appearance of this townhouse from the outside doesn’t quite prepare you for the contemporary and modern look inside.
However, it’s a very pleasant surprise! With a large living area boasting an L-shaped sofa, it’s perfect for catching a movie or spending some quality time with up to three travelling companions.
Because of its location outside of the city centre, you’re assured of a good night’s sleep, but you’re still within walking distance of most of Victoria’s attractions and nightlife!
Carriage House B & B | Best Bed and Breakfast in Victoria
Wake up from your queen bed to the sound of a horse and carriage passing your window before heading downstairs to a fully cooked breakfast. Doesn’t sound like a bad start to the day, right?
This cosy B&B is just two blocks from town, so you can enjoy everything the city has to offer while saving a pretty penny. You have a full en-suite bathroom in your room, so maximum privacy is ensured.
Studio Downtown Victoria | Best Airbnb in Victoria with a view
With floor to ceiling windows in a curve like the prow of a ship, it’s doubtful you’ll get a better view of Victoria’s Harbour from anywhere – unless you’re out on the balcony of this lower floor studio!
The waterfront studio is part of a condo. You’ll also have access to a gym during your stay. It’s everything you could want!
Sleek Urban Condo w/ Marble Tub | Best Airbnb in Victoria with a Pool
Another condo, stay here if you want access to one of the coolest outdoor common areas in Victoria. As well as the swimming pool, there’s a shared hot tub, a fire pit, and sun loungers where you can make the most of that British Colombia sun.
The flat is best suited to couples or business travellers who want to be right in the heart of Downtown Victoria.
Chic Two-Story Heritage Loft | Best Airbnb Plus in Victoria
Airbnb Plus vacation rentals are hand-picked for their excellent reviews and hosts, who show incredible attention to detail. To get this badge is an achievement in itself – so to be crowned the best, you know this place must be good.
The two-story loft is in a heritage building dating back to the end of the 19th century. Though it has original features, modern and contemporary conveniences have been carefully blended to create an apartment dripping with charm and character!
The Common Room | Best Airbnb in Victoria for a Group of Friends
If you and your group of friends just love Harry Potter, you simply have to stay here; it’s the closest thing you’ll get to Gryffindor Common Room!
Enjoy a game of wizard’s chess as you look out over the street or relax in front of the faux fire. As well as all the Harry Potter props, you will actually find the necessary stuff, like a fully equipped kitchen, tea and coffee, and a TV with DVDs and Blu-Rays… bet you can’t guess what films!
Island Getaway Campervan | Most Unique Airbnb in Victoria
Victoria is surrounded by the natural beauty of the Empress and Olympic Mountains, not to mention loads of forests, lakes, and rivers. Sometimes it’s nice to just have the freedom of the open road.
This retro campervan is the perfect Victoria vacation rental for a couple or solo traveller to park up wherever they like and enjoy the scenery. Bring nothing more than your clothes and food – everything else is included!
FAQs About Airbnbs in Victoria
Here’s what people usually ask me about vacation rentals in Victoria.
What To Pack For Victoria
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for an Airbnb stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Don’t Forget Your Victoria Travel Insurance
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
Final Thoughts on Victoria Airbnbs
So, there you have it. Those are the best Airbnbs in Victoria, as well as some pretty awesome activities to do when you’re there. Whether you want to stay in a penthouse overlooking the harbour, a cosy and friendly bed and breakfast, or a traditional townhouse, we’ve got you covered.
Still can’t decide? No worries, just go for my overall best value Airbnb in Victoria – the Centrally Located Entire Condo. Not only is it great value for money in a superb location, it’s got bags of character, too.
Wherever you choose to stay, I hope you have a wonderful time in British Columbia. And be sure to check your insurance options with World Nomads before travelling!
- Check out our Backpacking Canada guide for in-depth info for your trip.
- Use our Where to Stay in Victoria guide to plan your adventure.
- Backpackers and frugal travellers use our budget backpacking guide.
- Make sure you visit the most beautiful places in Canada too.
- That will of course include many of the stunning National Parks of Canada.
- A great way to see the country is by taking an epic road trip around Victoria.
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