Car Hire in Center

Victoria's downtown is British Columbia's provincial capital and one of Canada's most beautiful city centers, located right on the Inner Harbour. With 2 car rental companies in central locations, you can pick up a car and immediately explore Vancouver Island on your own. From here, it's only 90 km to Tofino along the Pacific Rim Highway.

The center is dominated by the Parliament building and the Empress Hotel, and is located 27 km south of Victoria International Airport (YYJ). Beacon Hill Park is just 1 km away, and the BC Ferries terminal in Swartz Bay can be reached 32 km north via Highway 17. Avoid renting a car solely for downtown – downtown Victoria is small and walkable on foot.

A car is most worthwhile for excursions to Sooke (35 km west) or Cowichan Valley (60 km north). Parking in the downtown is limited; choose a car rental company with a depot outside the most congested streets. Do I need a car in central Victoria?

The center is small and walkable, but a car is necessary for excursions to, for example, Tofino or Butchart Gardens. How do I get from Victoria downtown to the ferry in Swartz Bay? It's 32 km north via Highway 17, which takes about 35 minutes without traffic.

How many car rental companies are in Victoria downtown? There are 2 car rental companies with offices in central Victoria.

We compare prices from all major providers at Center so you can see the total cost upfront - including insurance, fuel terms and any extras. Most bookings include free cancellation up to 48 hours before pickup, giving you flexibility if your plans change.