Getting geared up for Christmas means shopping, lots of shopping. Fortunately, Victoria and Vancouver feature plenty of shopping districts for finding the perfect something for everyone on your list.

In Victoria, start at Bay Centre with dozens of brand-name stores and specialty shops. It’s also the home of the annual Festival of Trees, set Nov. 20 through Jan. 6, and it’s just the thing to get you in the Christmas spirit.

For the reader on your list, browse Munro’s Books just steps from the Bay Centre on Government Street. The shop has been a destination for book lovers for 50 years and occupies a historic building in Victoria’s Old Town. In fact, it’s been named one of the world’s top 10 book stores by National Geographic.

Pick up the delicious present or stocking stuffers for chocoholics at Chocolats Favoris, a block down from Munro’s, or Rogers’ Chocolates, which has been creating gourmet sweets since 1885. Charles “Candy” Rogers created the original Victoria Cream, and became Canada’s first chocolatier.

Head over to Market Square on Johnson Street and “Fabulous” Fort Street where you’ll discover art galleries, trendy boutiques, jewelry and accessories. And all along the way there are cafes, and coffee and tea shops for taking a break and refueling.

In Vancouver, the shopping season kicks off Nov. 20-Dec. 24 with its 10th Annual Christmas Market, a holiday tradition featuring more than 80 huts of authentic German sweets, treats and treasures. The market is held at Jack Poole Plaza where shoppers can stroll through a Christmas wonderland perusing the myriad of vendors.

Gastown is THE place to shop in Vancouver. A diverse mix of retail and restaurants, Gaston covers 12 city blocks in what was the city’s original downtown. It’s a thriving fashion district with decor boutiques, galleries, and boutiques of locally made products.

In West Vancouver, browse the 280 stores and services at Park Royal indoor and outdoor shopping mall in West Vancouver. There are all your favorite brands as well as local merchants.

For your Christmas shopping vacation, base yourself out of one of our hand-picked accommodations that range from condos in downtown Vancouver to private waterfront homes in Victoria.