Discover Victoria Steps from the Inner Harbour
Staying at the Embassy Inn places you in the heart of James Bay, just steps from Victoria’s Inner Harbour and many of the city’s best cafes, shops and cultural attractions. From scenic waterfront walks and local boutiques to great restaurants and unique experiences, there’s plenty to discover just minutes from your door.
Cafes & Restaurants
Discovery Coffee
5-minute walk
Swing by this popular Victoria coffee roaster for expertly crafted espresso drinks and a relaxed, modern atmosphere.
Steamship Grill & Bar
3-minute walk
A waterfront seafood restaurant overlooking the harbour, the Steamship Grill & Bar is known for fresh Pacific seafood and classic West Coast dishes.
Victoria Harbour House Restaurant
5-minute walk
With its warm, historic setting near the harbour, this long-standing local favourite offers fresh seafood and traditional West Coast cuisine.
Floyd’s Diner
2-minute walk
Vibrantly decorated with Americana, Floyd’s Diner in James Bay offers breakfast and lunch favourites, a fun atmosphere and attentive service.
Nourish Kitchen & Café
7-minute walk
A vibrant plant-focused cafe set in a beautiful heritage house, Nourish is known for its creative brunch, fresh seasonal ingredients and charming garden patio.
The Bengal
9-minute walk
Set inside the iconic Fairmont Empress, The Bengal blends historic character with modern refinement, offering an elegant, inviting setting just steps from Victoria’s Inner Harbour.
Bartholomew’s Public House
10-minute walk
Known as Bart’s, this Victoria institution specializes in pub classics for lunch and dinner. On select days, head over for pub quiz and music trivia.
Heron Rock Bistro
10-minute walk
Heron Rock is a cozy neighbourhood bistro serving thoughtfully prepared dishes inspired by local ingredients and global flavours.
Humboldt Bar
11-minute walk
Made for cocktail lovers, Humboldt Bar offers an intimate and welcoming setting to enjoy unique handcrafted cocktails and elevated bar snacks.
Good Earth Coffeehouse
14-minute walk
This welcoming cafe serves ethically sourced coffee, fresh pastries and light breakfast and lunch options. It’s a great stop for a quick coffee before exploring Victoria’s Inner Harbour.
Shops
Rogers’ Chocolates
10-minute walk
Victoria’s iconic chocolatier, Rogers’ Chocolates has been crafting premium chocolates and sweets using traditional recipes since 1885.
Munro’s Books
12-minute walk
One of Canada’s most beloved independent bookstores, Munro’s is set in a stunning heritage space and is known for its wide selection of books.
Market Collective
14-minute walk
Head to the Market Collective to browse goods from Canadian makers, including clothing, jewelry, home décor, and artisan gifts.
The Papery
16-minute walk
A charming stationery and gift shop, The Papery offers beautiful paper goods, greeting cards, journals and unique souvenirs.
Open House
17-minute walk
Open House is a thoughtfully curated boutique featuring clothing, home goods, and accessories from independent designers with a focus on sustainability and craftsmanship.
Oscar & Libby’s
17-minute walk
This playful toy and gift shop filled with puzzles, games and creative toys is a favourite with both kids and adults.
Anián
17-minute walk
This Victoria-based clothing company is known for sustainably made garments crafted from recycled natural fibres and built for everyday wear.
Experiences
Eagle Wing Whale & Wildlife Tours
14-minute walk
These award-winning whale watching tours depart from Victoria’s Inner Harbour and offer opportunities to see orcas, humpbacks and other marine wildlife.
Songhees Tours
8-minute walk
Embark on Indigenous-led cultural tours, which offer insight into the history, traditions and stories of the Songhees Nation.
HAVN Saunas
10-minute walk
Relax with waterfront views and refreshing ocean plunges at this Scandinavian-inspired floating sauna experience.
Fisherman’s Wharf
14-minute walk
Head for a casual waterfront stroll to this colourful floating marina filled with food kiosks, small shops and vibrant floating homes.
Hermann’s Jazz Club
18-minute walk
Canada’s longest-running jazz club, Hermann’s offers intimate live performances from local and international jazz musicians.
Art Gallery of Greater Victoria
34-minute walk
Head to the art museum for its impressive collection of Canadian and Asian art, rotating exhibitions and peaceful Japanese garden.
The Belfry Theatre
45-minute walk
A renowned Canadian theatre company, The Belfry presents contemporary plays and innovative productions in a beautifully restored heritage church.
Popular Events in Victoria
February–March
Victoria Film Festival
A ten-day event showcasing over 100 films, the Victoria Film Festival welcomes filmmakers, producers and audiences from around the world.
April
Times Colonist 10K
This popular 10-kilometre road race winds through downtown Victoria and Dallas Road, welcoming walkers, runners and families.
June—July
Victoria Jazz Festival
A ten-day festival of jazz, blues and world music, the Victoria Jazz Fest features local, national and international artists across venues around the city.
July–August
Symphony in the Summer Festival
This multi-day classical music festival culminates in a free outdoor orchestral concert on a floating stage in the Inner Harbour. It’s pure waterfront magic.
August
Victoria Dragon Boat Festival
Experience a vibrant weekend of dragon-boat racing in the Inner Harbour, paired with cultural shows, food vendors and family-friendly festivities.
October
Royal Victoria Marathon
Winding along the scenic oceanfront, the Royal Victoria Marathon offers an unforgettable experience of athleticism, West Coast beauty and community.
November–December
Festival of Trees
This festival is a holiday tradition graced with lit Christmas tree displays, family-friendly activities, food and community celebration.