Getting around a new city can be a challenge, but Victoria makes it refreshingly easy!
While it doesn’t have a subway system or a train network like other major Canadian cities, Victoria’s public transportation is straightforward and reliable making it popular with locals and a great way for travellers to get around!
Public transportation in Victoria, BC is provided exclusively by BC Transit. Whether you’re commuting to UVic, catching a ferry in Swartz Bay, or simply exploring downtown Victoria, you’ll be using the bus system. If you’re staying in a vacation rental in Greater Victoria EMR Vacation Rentals in Oak Bay, Sooke, Sidney, or Metchosin, this guide will help you confidently plan your routes across Greater Victoria!
Quick Tips for Using Transit in Victoria
- Always check NextRide for real-time bus tracking.
- Use a DayPass if you plan to take more than two rides in a day.
- Download the Umo App to simplify fare payment and trip planning.
- TransLink is Metro Vancouver’s system — use it when continuing travel on the Mainland.
- Plan your commute during peak hours in advance to avoid delays.
What Public Transit Looks Like in Victoria
Victoria’s public transportation is run by the Victoria Regional Transit System, a branch of BC Transit. There are no light rail trains or subways here — just buses. But don’t let that fool you. The system is robust, with bus stops scattered throughout the region including Colwood, James Bay, Royal Oak, Langford, Brentwood Bay, and Saanichton.
Why Take the Bus in Victoria?
- DayPass and Bus Pass Options: Affordable single fares, daypasses, and monthly bus pass options. Kids 12 and under ride free.
- U-Pass: If you’re a student at UVic or Royal Roads University, you’ll receive a U-Pass for unlimited rides.
- Real-Time Tracking: Use NextRide to see when your bus will arrive.
- Accessibility: Buses are equipped with low floors, ramps, and spots for strollers or mobility aids.
- Bike Racks: Each bus comes with a bike rack, making multi-modal trips a breeze.
How to Plan Your Trip
Option 1: Google Maps
Just enter your starting point and destination into Google Maps and select the public transit icon. It’ll generate a step-by-step itinerary based on current schedules.
Option 2: BC Transit Tools
- Visit bctransit.com/victoria to find schedules, maps, and alerts.
- Search by route number if you already know the bus line.
- Use the Umo App to pay fares, load your card, and track buses in real time.
Accessibility with handyDART
If you or a loved one has mobility challenges, handyDART is BC Transit’s door-to-door shared ride service for people unable to use regular buses. It’s fully accessible and only requires free registration to use.
Commuting Around the Region
Whether you’re commuting from Sidney to downtown Victoria, or from Langford to UVic, the transit service makes it easy to connect across the region!
Buses serve:
- Downtown Victoria
- Oak Bay and James Bay
- Langford and Colwood
- Royal Oak and Brentwood Bay
- Saanichton and Sooke
Most routes run seven days a week, with reduced service on holidays. If you’re commuting during rush hour, expect frequent service on major routes like #14 UVic or #50 Langford/Downtown.
Need to Catch a Ferry?
Victoria doesn’t have a bus or train that connects directly to Vancouver, but it does have a very scenic ferry system.
- BC Ferries: The Swartz Bay Ferry Terminal (near Sidney) connects you to Metro Vancouver, the Gulf Islands, and more. Bus routes run regularly to and from Swartz Bay.
- Victoria Harbour Ferries: These adorable little water taxis operate in downtown Victoria and are a great way to visit different harbourside neighbourhoods. They’re not part of the transit system but offer a fun and scenic alternative
Where to Stay
If you’re planning to explore the Island, you’ll want to book a Vancouver Island vacation rental with us so you’ll always be close to a major bus route or transit hub!
Whether you’re in a stylish condo in downtown Victoria, a serene oceanside retreat in Sooke, or a cozy cottage in Sidney, our homes offer the perfect base for your car-free adventure!
Explore our collection of well-located, fully equipped rentals across Greater Victoria and find your ideal home away from home!