Plenty of travellers treat Victoria as a quick day trip from Vancouver, but once you start digging into its lush nature, storied history, and surprisingly lively bar scene, you’ll be kicking yourself for not staying longer.
Victoria’s got it all—vineyards, beaches, mountains, forests and charming small-town vibes with just enough buzz to keep things fresh. In short: Victoria has a little something for everyone.
Hostels in Victoria are the perfect way to soak it all in without draining your wallet. They offer a base to explore the city and a chance to meet other backpackers who, like you, are here for the whale watching, hiking trails, and yes, maybe a cheeky pint or two at a classic Victorian pub.
From cosy and quiet to social and lively, these hostels are just as diverse as the city itself. But where are all the best hostels in Victoria hiding out?
Here’s the catch: Victoria’s hostel scene is a bit on the slim side, but don’t sweat it—I’ve got you covered. I’ve scouted out the best hostels in Victoria, along with a few wallet-friendly budget stays to stretch your cash further. Let’s dive in.
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The Best Hostel in Victoria
Here it is – the best (and only) hostel in Victoria! Even with the limited options for backpackers in the village, this spot is still an absolute cracker. Let’s check it out…
Ocean Island Inn
- Dorm (mixed): From $33
- Private Room: From $50
- Address: 791 Pandora Avenue, Victoria, BC, Victoria, Canada
With Ocean Island Inn being the only hostel in Victoria, you’d think the bar would be pretty low, right? Refreshingly, this spot is an absolute gem. Being the only backpacker hub in Victoria, it’s got a super nice vibe and it’s really easy to meet other travelers backpacking Canada.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Free Dinner
- Central Location
- Movie Room
With lounges, a movie room, games, and a cafe, there are so many ways to get out there and mix with the other backpackers. Putting you right in the heart of downtown, you’ll also have all the best sites of the city within walking distance of this Canadian hostel. The staff are super friendly and welcoming too so make sure you pick their brains for reccs in the city.
The custom-made wooden bunkbeds are spacious with lots of headroom and privacy. They’re kind of like the fort you might have had as a kid. And let’s be real, backpacking is just one of the many ways we return to our inner child—so I’m all here for it.
You get so much bang for your buck at Ocean Island Inn too. I’m talking free brekky, free dinner AND a free drink every day. Talk about a steal. If you miss a meal or are feeling snacky, you always have the fully equipped kitchen on hand to whip up something too. Considering it’s the only hostel in the city, it’s a damn good one.
More Epic Budget Stays in Victoria
Still looking for the right Victoria hostel for you? Unfortunately you’re outta luck! The hostel scene in Victoria is pretty thin but don’t sweat it, I’ve rounded up the best budget stays in the area so you can keep within that backpacker budget of yours.
Are you traveling to Victoria with the gang? Why not check out my favorite Airbnbs in Victoria as well?!
Hotel Zed
- Private Room: From $65
- Address: 3110 Douglas Street, V8Z 3K4 Victoria, Canada
Still looking for a chilled, laidback place to stay without it feeling like a downright rager of a party hostel? Hotel Zed will give you that artsy, colorful atmosphere while still putting you up in luxurious 4-star hotel rooms. With a swimming pool, games room, lounge, and even bike rentals, this hotel will hook you up with everything you need to relax at the hotel or go out and explore Victoria.
The decor is eclectic, colorful, and oh-so-cool. Everything is clean and comfortable and the staff go above and beyond to make sure your stay is as colorful as Hotel Zed. Don’t pass up on using the waterslide too because why the hell not?!
“Tranquil” Zen Room” beautiful retreat
- Private Room: From $80
- Address: Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
It’s no surprise that you get the most bang for your buck outside the conventional Victoria hotels and B&Bs. It’s in a very walkable location—just fifteen minutes to the Empress St and Government St and the rest of downtown for easy access to the best coffee, food, shopping, and sights in the city. Diane is very friendly and is always happy to jump in with suggestions for things to do in Victoria. The kitchen and bathroom are super nice and cozy, with a chill balcony and many plants. For a unique stay that breaks away from the cookie-cutter hotel and hostels, Diane’s place is a gem.
Days Inn Victoria
- Private Room: From $64
- Address: 229 Gorge Road East, V9A 1L1 Victoria, Canada
Days Inn Victoria is a recently renovated hotel in a great central location. It’s just outside the main downtown bubble meaning you get SO much more bang for your buck here which is great if you’re trying to stretch that backpacker budget. There’s a pub on-site that does some great grub and has weekly live music events, adding a bit of buzz to the place.
After a day of city exploring, unwind in the pool, sweat it out in the fitness center, or simply kick it back on your balcony and take in the views. The staff are super helpful, you can even contact them via message rather than having to go down to reception yourself. They can hook you up with tips for the city, early check-ins, and shuttles to the airport. Everything is an absolute breeze here.
Marketa’s Bed & Breakfast
- Private Room: From $87
- Address: 239 Superior Street, V8V 1T4 Victoria, Canada
For a price not all that much more than what you would pay for a private room at a backpacker’s hostel, Marketa’s Bed & Breakfast will give you a one-of-a-kind experience in this classic Victorian home. With vintage furniture, sunny rooms, and antique charm, you will be whisked centuries into the past the second you lay down your luggage.
The breakfast they serve here is insane; a proper homemade brekky that’ll keep you fuelled for a day of city adventures. It boasts an excellent location close to the harbor and city center and there’s also free parking too if you’re on a good ‘ol road trip through Victoria. For a charming stay in a historic property, this B&B is a great budget option.
James Bay Inn Hotel, Suites & Cottage
- Private Room: From $75
- Address: 270 Government Street, V8V 2L2 Victoria, Canada
The location of James Bay Inn Hotel can’t be beaten. It’s within walking distance to downtown and other popular neighborhoods, surrounded by great restaurants and beaches, in a leafy residential area that feels super safe. It’s set in a beautiful old building and all the amenities are spotless.
The front desk staff is exceptional, it’s clean and comfortable and just oozes old-style charm. The food and drinks at the restaurant and the pub are impressively good too. It’s no surprise why this is a go-to place in Victoria for so many regular visitors.
Arbutus Inn
- Private Room: From $54
- Address: 2898 Douglas Street, V8T 4M9 Victoria, Canada
Arbutus Inn may not have all of the bells and whistles of other Victoria hotels, but if you want a cheap place to stay not too far away from the downtown area, this stay may be speaking your language. With homey and clean rooms, you’ll be well-rested before heading out on your next adventure.
With loads of shopping options and restaurants near the hotel, you won’t have to wander too far to find a bite to eat. The free parking sweetens the deal to get to other beautiful spots in Canada like Butchart Gardens. Plus, the staff are super friendly and will give you any info you need for your trip to the city.
HI Victoria
If you’re looking for the classic backpacker’s experience while in Victoria, you’ll want to head straight to HI Victoria! This youth hostel will have you kicking back in one of the lounges and swapping stories with some of the other travelers before you head out on another adventure! Located near the historic downtown, you’ll be just a few minutes’ walk away from all the top sites of downtown, such as Craigdarroch Castle and the Royal British Colombia Museum.
It’s not only historical sites that are waiting outside of your door; you’ll also find that as soon as the sun goes down, there are loads of great bars and restaurants lining the streets of Victoria!
Turtle Hostel
It’s no secret that Canada is an expensive country to travel through as a budget backpacker. Lucky for you, there are places such as the Turtle Hostel that will put you up for practically nothing. The Turtle Hostel is not exactly five-star, nor does it top the list of the best Victoria hostels, but if you’re traveling on a shoestring and have had plenty of experience backpacking, Turtle Hostel will be your best choice to find a place to crash and save some money.
Located within walking distance of downtown, the best restaurants and bars are only a short walk away. With a lounge, shared kitchen, and a patio where you can soak up some rays in the backyard, you may actually end up falling in love with Turtle Hostel!
Metro Inn
Located a short walk away from Topaz Park and the Victoria Ferry Harbour, Metro Inn is another cheap option where you can get cozy rooms perfect for a quiet night’s sleep before you head out on your next adventure. With rooms that fit any budget, Metro Inn will give you all the privacy you need to kick back and relax while planning your next day trip from Victoria.
Around the hotel, you’ll have tons of options of places to eat and drink, so you’re sure never to go hungry!
Getting Insured BEFORE Visiting Victoria
Unfortunately, things can go wrong when you least expect it. This is why good travel insurance is essential before you head on your trip to Victoria.
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’s Hostels
If you’re debating where to stay in Canada, then Victoria should be high up on your list! It might not have the bustling hostel scene of bigger cities, but what it lacks in quantity, it more than makes up for in charm, comfort, and character.
Whether you’re here to kayak the harbour, hike rugged coastal trails, or sip your way through local vineyards, Victoria has a lil something for every type of traveler.
To make your trip to Victoria truly the stuff of legends, you’ll have to choose the perfect place for you that will set the tone for your trip. With my ultimate guide, you should be able to find accomodation that fits how you like to travel on your own terms and most importantly—within your budget.
Still unsure on where to stay? Considering it’s the only hostel in the city, Ocean Island Inn is a cracker of a choice. It’s oozing that backpacker vibe that I always look for in a hostel, plus the free food and drinks don’t go amiss either.
If you discover any hidden gems or must-try spots along the way, drop me a comment – I’m always looking for the best new spot in the city. Happy travels!
- Check out our extensive guide to backpacking in Canada for a wealth of info!
- Not sure what to do once you arrive? We’ve got all the beautiful places in Canada covered.
- Skip the dorm and find a super cool Airbnb in Victoria if you’re feeling fancy!8
- Check out the best places to stay in Victoria before you arrive.
- Remember to grab yourself an international sim card for Canada to avoid any issues.
- Prepare for your trip with our backpacking packing list.
