Vancouver and Victoria are preeminently maritime cities, and the visitor is always aware of water and the closeness of the immense Pacific. Vibrant Vancouver is (mostly) on the mainland, but charming Victoria occupies the southern tip of Vancouver Island, about 45km (28 miles) to the west. To get the most out of this glorious part of Canada, you'll need a car and you'll likely have to take a ferry to reach Victoria. In both Vancouver and Victoria, you can ditch your car and use public transportation or walk, but to enjoy the almost limitless sightseeing opportunities outside the cities, a car is essential.
