How to get from Victoria International Airport to Downtown Victoria

Victoria International Airport (YYJ) is about 25–27 km north of Downtown Victoria, British Columbia. Travelers can reach the city centre by public bus, taxi, Uber, private transfer, or rental car. The drive usually takes 25–40 minutes, while public transit takes longer but costs significantly less. Here’s how to choose the best option for your arrival.

At A Glance (Victoria International Airport to Downtown Victoria)

Which Option or Route Should You Choose?

• Cheapest / Most Economical: Choose the BC Transit bus via McTavish Exchange. The CAD $6 DayPASS covers your connecting bus journey and additional local trips that day.
• Best Direct Budget Option: Take Route 72A if your arrival coincides with its limited late-evening departure schedule. It travels directly from the airport to downtown without changing buses.
• Fastest / Most Convenient: Use an airport taxi. Taxis are available at the terminal and provide direct transport to downtown hotels and the Inner Harbour.
• Best for App-Based Booking: Choose Uber to see available vehicles and estimated fares before confirming your ride.
• Best for Families and Groups: Arrange a private airport transfer with an appropriately sized vehicle, particularly when traveling with several suitcases or needing child seats.
• Most Flexible / Best for Road Trips: Choose a rental car if you intend to explore Sooke, the Saanich Peninsula, or other parts of Vancouver Island beyond Victoria.

How to Book and Practical Tips

• Check bus connections before landing: Use the official BC Transit airport schedule to find Route 87 or 88 connections to downtown and see whether a direct Route 72A departure is available.
• Understand bus fares: A standard adult single ride costs CAD $3, but separate bus rides require separate fares unless you use a DayPASS. The CAD $6 DayPASS is usually the simplest option for the two-bus airport journey.
• Prepare your payment: BC Transit accepts supported contactless payment methods and the Umo fare system. Cash passengers should bring exact change and request a DayPASS when boarding.
• Allow for traffic: Highway 17, also called the Patricia Bay Highway, is the primary road between the airport and Victoria. Peak commuting periods can increase journey times.
• Traveling with large luggage: Public buses have limited luggage accommodation. Keep bags clear of the aisles. A taxi or private transfer is more comfortable if you have oversized suitcases.
• Late arrivals: Check Route 72A before assuming buses have finished for the night. Its late-evening direct departures provide a useful alternative, although service is limited.
• Reserve accommodation conveniently: Compare Downtown Victoria hotels, especially around the Inner Harbour, Government Street, Douglas Street, and the Legislature area.
• Plan sightseeing after arrival: Explore Victoria tours and activities. If you arrive before hotel check-in, consider luggage storage, subject to available locations and opening hours.

🚌 Option 1 — BC Transit Bus via McTavish Exchange (Cheapest Overall)

Lowest cost Public transit One transfer

• Overview: BC Transit connects Victoria International Airport to Downtown Victoria through McTavish Transit Exchange. Board Route 87 or 88 at the airport, travel to McTavish Exchange, then transfer to a downtown-bound Route 72 or, where the schedule allows, Route 70. The journey typically takes 60–90 minutes, including the connection, but longer waits are possible.
• How to Book (with price): No advance reservation is needed. A standard single ride costs CAD $3 for adults. Because most journeys require two buses, purchase the CAD $6 DayPASS, which also provides unlimited eligible Victoria Regional Transit rides for the day. Consult BC Transit fares and payment methods.
• Operating Pattern: Routes 87 and 88 serve the airport seven days a week. Connections at McTavish Exchange are coordinated with selected downtown-bound services. Frequencies vary by day and time.
• Best Downtown Stops: Douglas Street stops provide access to downtown shops, hotels, and restaurants. Services continuing toward Legislature Exchange are convenient for the Inner Harbour, Fairmont Empress, and the Parliament Buildings.
• Pros: Very affordable; no need to reserve; useful for independent travelers; DayPASS can cover additional sightseeing journeys.
• Cons: Requires changing buses; less comfortable with large luggage; journey time depends on connections; less convenient for hotels far from bus stops.

Step-by-step: BC Transit Bus via McTavish Exchange

1. Arrive at Victoria International Airport: After collecting your luggage, exit the arrivals area and follow the signs for public transportation and the BC Transit bus stop near the terminal.
2. Check the next departure: Open the airport bus timetable and identify the next Route 87 or 88 service traveling toward McTavish Exchange.
3. Purchase your fare: Pay the applicable fare when boarding. If paying cash, request a CAD $6 DayPASS from the driver so you can transfer without purchasing another ticket.
4. Ride to McTavish Transit Exchange: The airport-to-exchange journey is short, typically around 5–15 minutes depending on the route.
5. Transfer to a downtown-bound bus: Find the correct bay for Route 72 or the scheduled Route 70 connection. Confirm that the destination sign says Downtown Victoria.
6. Continue to the city centre: Ride south along the Saanich Peninsula toward Victoria. The downtown portion generally takes approximately 40–60 minutes, depending on the bus route and traffic.
7. Exit near your accommodation: For the Inner Harbour, continue toward the Legislature area if your bus serves it. For hotels around Douglas Street, get off at the nearest central stop.
8. Walk to your destination: Most central hotels, restaurants, and attractions can be reached on foot from downtown bus stops.

Getting to the main boarding and transfer points (YYJ Airport / McTavish Exchange)

• Victoria International Airport Bus Stop: Located near the passenger terminal. Follow the airport’s ground transportation signs after leaving baggage claim.
• McTavish Transit Exchange: The main transfer point between the airport routes and buses serving Downtown Victoria, Swartz Bay, and the Saanich Peninsula.
• Downtown Victoria: Use Douglas Street or Legislature Exchange, depending on the bus service and your final destination.
• Route Information: View the Route 88 timetable and Route 72 timetable before traveling.
• Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

🚌 Option 2 — BC Transit Route 72A (Limited Direct Airport Bus)

Low cost No transfer Limited departures

• Overview: Route 72A Swartz Bay / YYJ / Downtown provides a limited direct connection from Victoria International Airport to Downtown Victoria. Introduced in September 2026, the service operates during selected late-evening periods when Routes 87 and 88 are no longer running. The airport-to-downtown journey takes approximately 45–55 minutes without a transfer.
• How to Book (with price): No advance booking is required. Regular BC Transit fares apply, with an adult single ride costing CAD $3. Check the official airport service schedule for departure times.
• Service Times: Scheduled late-evening airport departures include approximately 10:23 pm and 11:22 pm, with an additional after-midnight departure on certain days. Actual service varies by weekday, weekend, and holiday timetable.
• Important: Route 72A is not an all-day express service. Most daytime passengers should use the regular airport bus connection through McTavish Exchange.
• Pros: Direct journey; inexpensive; no bus transfer; useful for some late-night arrivals.
• Cons: Few scheduled departures; limited flexibility if a flight is delayed; not suitable for every arrival time.

Step-by-step: Direct Route 72A Airport Bus

1. Check your arrival time: Compare your flight’s scheduled landing time with the latest Route 72A departures.
2. Collect your luggage: Allow enough time for baggage collection and exiting the terminal. Bus departures do not normally wait for delayed flights.
3. Find the airport bus stop: Follow the ground transportation signs outside the arrivals area.
4. Board Route 72A toward Downtown: Check the destination display carefully because the same route also operates in the opposite direction toward Swartz Bay.
5. Pay your fare: Use a supported payment method or exact cash fare when boarding.
6. Stay on the bus: Route 72A travels through the Saanich Peninsula and into Victoria without requiring passengers to change buses.
7. Exit in Downtown Victoria: Choose a stop near Douglas Street or Legislature Exchange, depending on your hotel.

Getting to the main boarding points (YYJ Airport / Legislature Exchange)

• Airport Boarding Point: Use the designated BC Transit stop outside Victoria International Airport’s passenger terminal.
• Downtown Arrival: Legislature Exchange provides convenient access to the Inner Harbour and surrounding hotels.
• Nearby Attractions: The British Columbia Parliament Buildings, Royal BC Museum, and Fairmont Empress are within walking distance of the Legislature area.
• Schedule: Check the official BC Transit website for Route 72A timetable changes, particularly on holidays.
• Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

🚕 Option 3 — Airport Taxi (Fastest and Most Convenient)

Door-to-door Easy luggage Metered fare

• Overview: Taking a taxi from Victoria International Airport to Downtown Victoria is one of the simplest transfer options. The journey covers approximately 25–27 km and typically takes 25–40 minutes, depending on traffic and the destination address.
• How to Book (with price): Follow the signs to the official taxi pickup area outside the terminal. Yellow Cab of Victoria lists an estimated fare of approximately CAD $65 between downtown and the airport. Budget around CAD $65–80 depending on traffic and the exact destination. View Yellow Cab’s published rates.
• Taxi Availability: Yellow Cab operates curbside pickup at YYJ. Other licensed Greater Victoria taxi companies may provide pre-booked airport pickups at the designated short-term parking lot curb.
• Payment: Taxis generally accept major cards and cash. Confirm payment options with your driver before leaving.
• Accessibility: Accessible taxis can be arranged. The airport recommends advance notice of at least one hour for passengers requiring accessible transportation.
• Pros: No transfers; convenient with luggage; direct hotel drop-off; straightforward for visitors unfamiliar with local public transit.
• Cons: More expensive than the bus; metered fares increase with congestion; queues may develop during busy arrival periods.

Step-by-step: Airport Taxi to Downtown Victoria

1. Complete arrival procedures: Collect your luggage and exit the arrivals hall.
2. Find the official taxi rank: Follow the taxi signage to the designated curbside pickup area.
3. Join the taxi queue: Use an available licensed taxi or follow instructions from airport ground transportation staff.
4. Confirm your destination: Give the driver your hotel name or street address in Downtown Victoria.
5. Travel toward the city: Most journeys follow Highway 17 south toward Victoria.
6. Arrive at your accommodation: The driver can drop you directly at hotels around the Inner Harbour, Government Street, Douglas Street, or James Bay.
7. Pay the metered fare: Confirm the total and request a receipt if needed.

Getting to the main pickup points (Airport Taxi Rank)

• Victoria International Airport Taxi Stand: Located outside the terminal in the designated ground transportation area.
• Pre-Booked Taxi Pickup: The designated area is along the Short Term Lot curb across from the arrivals exit doors.
• Taxi Operator: Yellow Cab of Victoria, telephone +1 250-381-2222.
• Typical Downtown Destinations: Inner Harbour, Fairmont Empress, Victoria Conference Centre, Chinatown, and downtown hotels.
• Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

🚘 Option 4 — Uber and App-Based Rideshare (Flexible Booking)

App booking Fare estimate Demand-dependent

• Overview: Uber operates at Victoria International Airport and provides app-based transfers to Downtown Victoria. A typical ride takes 25–40 minutes, plus any time required for a driver to reach the pickup area.
• How to Book (with price): Open the Uber airport ride page or mobile app, enter Victoria International Airport as the pickup point and your downtown destination. Estimated Uber fares may be around CAD $45–85, although availability, time of day, and surge pricing can substantially change the total. Always use the live app quote.
• Ride Options: UberX is generally suitable for standard journeys, while UberXL may be available for larger groups or passengers with additional luggage.
• Pickup Procedure: Follow the pickup directions displayed in the app. The designated pre-booked transportation area is located across from the arrivals terminal near the Short Term Lot.
• Alternative: If no suitable Uber is available, use the official taxi rank or arrange a pre-booked private transfer.
• Pros: Convenient app payment; driver and vehicle details; fare estimate before booking; easy hotel drop-off.
• Cons: Dynamic pricing; possible driver delays; availability varies, particularly during peak arrival periods and late at night.

Step-by-step: Uber from Victoria International Airport

1. Prepare your app: Install Uber and set up your preferred payment method before traveling.
2. Connect to mobile data or Wi-Fi: After arriving at YYJ, open the app once you are ready to leave the terminal.
3. Enter your destination: Select your downtown hotel, Inner Harbour, or another Victoria address.
4. Compare available rides: Review the displayed vehicle categories, estimated arrival times, and current fares.
5. Confirm your booking: Request the selected ride and follow the app’s directions to the assigned pickup location.
6. Verify your driver: Match the license plate and vehicle description before entering.
7. Travel to Downtown Victoria: Your driver will normally follow Highway 17 south toward the city.
8. Complete your trip: Payment is handled through the app, subject to your selected method and any applicable adjustments.

Getting to the main pickup points (Uber Pickup Area)

• Airport Pickup: Follow the airport’s designated rideshare or pre-booked transportation directions after leaving arrivals.
• Short Term Lot: The designated pre-booked pickup curb is across from the arrivals terminal exit.
• Booking App: Uber YYJ Airport.
• Downtown Drop-off: Enter your hotel’s exact address rather than a general downtown location to avoid unnecessary walking.
• Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

🚐 Option 5 — Pre-Booked Private Airport Transfer (Best for Groups and Families)

Advance booking Door-to-door Higher cost

• Overview: A private airport transfer offers a pre-arranged vehicle between Victoria International Airport and Downtown Victoria. Depending on the provider, pickup instructions, luggage handling, and vehicle type can be arranged before arrival. Travel usually takes 25–40 minutes.
• How to Book (with price): Request quotes through GetTransfer or inquire with a licensed local chauffeur or transportation company. A practical planning budget is approximately CAD $75–160+ per vehicle for a standard or larger transfer, although premium services may cost considerably more. Confirm actual service availability and prices for YYJ before paying.
• Vehicle Options: Depending on the operator, choices may include standard sedans, SUVs, executive vehicles, and larger vans.
• Advance Arrangements: Provide your flight number, scheduled landing time, passenger count, and luggage requirements. Confirm whether the operator monitors flight delays.
• Child Seats: Families requiring child restraints should request them in advance and confirm availability and any additional fees.
• Pickup Details: Confirm whether the driver meets you inside the terminal or at the designated pre-booked pickup curb.
• Pros: Organized arrival; direct transportation; suitable for groups; convenient for travelers with substantial luggage.
• Cons: Often more expensive than public transit or standard taxis; reservations may have cancellation restrictions; flight-delay waiting fees may apply.

Step-by-step: Private Transfer from YYJ to Downtown Victoria

1. Choose a transfer provider: Compare vehicle categories, prices, cancellation terms, and passenger capacity.
2. Enter the journey details: Select Victoria International Airport as the pickup location and your downtown hotel as the drop-off.
3. Provide your flight information: Include the airline, flight number, arrival date, and expected landing time.
4. Specify luggage and passenger requirements: Request a larger vehicle if needed, and confirm any accessibility or child-seat requirements.
5. Confirm the reservation: Review the total price, waiting-time allowance, pickup procedure, and provider contact details.
6. Arrive at YYJ: Complete baggage collection and follow the instructions from your transfer company.
7. Meet your driver: Confirm the driver’s identity and vehicle before beginning the journey.
8. Travel directly to your destination: Your driver will take you to your hotel or another agreed address in Downtown Victoria.

Getting to the main pickup points (Pre-Booked Transfer Area)

• Victoria International Airport Arrivals: Follow your operator’s instructions for meeting inside or outside the terminal.
• Designated Pickup Area: Pre-booked ground transportation commonly uses the Short Term Lot curb across from the arrivals exit.
• Transfer Booking: Check availability through GetTransfer or directly with a local operator.
• Destination: Most providers can arrange drop-off at Downtown Victoria, the Inner Harbour, James Bay, or another agreed address within their service area.
• Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

🚗 Option 6 — Rental Car (Best for Exploring Vancouver Island)

Flexible schedule Self-drive Parking costs

• Overview: Renting a car at Victoria International Airport is ideal for visitors planning to explore destinations outside central Victoria. The journey to downtown is approximately 25–27 km and usually takes 25–40 minutes via Highway 17 South.
• How to Book (with price): Compare available vehicles through Booking.com Car Rentals. Economy and compact rentals may cost around CAD $45–100+ per day, depending on season, vehicle class, availability, and booking conditions. Taxes, insurance, fuel, airport fees, and parking can increase the total.
• Rental Companies: The airport lists on-site counters for Avis, Budget, Hertz, Thrifty, and National. Off-airport operators such as Alamo and Enterprise may require pre-arranged transportation to their rental locations.
• Where to Find the Counters: On-airport rental car desks are in the arrivals area, opposite the Information Desk.
• Suggested Driving Route: Leave the airport and follow signs toward Highway 17 South / Victoria. Continue toward the city centre, following navigation directions to your downtown address.
• Parking: Downtown hotels may charge separately for overnight parking. Public parking is available in designated city parkades and paid street spaces.
• Driving Requirements: Carry a valid driver’s license and confirm any international driving permit, identification, credit card, or age requirements with your rental provider.
• Pros: Complete flexibility; convenient for day trips; useful for visiting beaches, parks, and destinations with limited transit.
• Cons: Parking fees; fuel and insurance costs; traffic during busy periods; unnecessary expense if staying exclusively downtown.

Step-by-step: Driving from Victoria International Airport to Downtown Victoria

1. Reserve a vehicle: Compare airport car rental options before arrival, especially during summer and holiday periods.
2. Collect your luggage: After landing, proceed through the arrivals area and find your rental company’s counter.
3. Complete the rental agreement: Present your identification, driver’s license, reservation details, and required payment card.
4. Inspect the vehicle: Check the car for existing damage, confirm fuel and insurance terms, and photograph any visible marks before leaving.
5. Exit the airport: Follow the signs to Willingdon Road and Highway 17 South toward Victoria.
6. Continue south on Highway 17: Follow the Patricia Bay Highway through the Saanich Peninsula toward the city.
7. Enter Downtown Victoria: Follow your navigation route toward Douglas Street, Blanshard Street, Government Street, or your hotel address.
8. Park at your destination: Use hotel parking or a public parkade. Check overnight rates and restrictions before leaving the car.

Getting to the main pickup points (Airport Rental Car Counters)

• On-Airport Rental Counters: Located inside the arrivals area opposite the Information Desk.
• Off-Airport Rental Pickup: Follow the operator’s pre-arranged pickup instructions. The airport identifies an off-airport customer pickup area near the arrivals end of the terminal.
• Airport Rental Information: View the official YYJ ground transportation page for rental companies and pickup arrangements.
• Downtown Parking: Search for parking near your accommodation before driving into central Victoria.
• Suggested Side Trips: With a rental car, travelers can explore Sidney, Butchart Gardens, Sooke, and coastal destinations around southern Vancouver Island.
• Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

FAQ (Victoria International Airport to Downtown Victoria)

How far is Victoria International Airport from Downtown Victoria?
Victoria International Airport (YYJ) is approximately 25–27 km north of Downtown Victoria on Vancouver Island, British Columbia. Driving usually takes 25–40 minutes, although rush-hour congestion may increase the travel time.

What is the cheapest way to get from Victoria Airport to downtown?
BC Transit is the cheapest practical option. A standard adult fare is CAD $3 per boarding, while the CAD $6 DayPASS covers the usual two-bus journey via McTavish Exchange. If the limited direct Route 72A matches your arrival time, the trip can cost only CAD $3.

Is there a direct bus from Victoria International Airport to Downtown Victoria?
Yes, but only at limited times. Route 72A provides direct airport-to-downtown journeys during selected late-evening periods. Most daytime travelers use Routes 87 or 88 to McTavish Exchange, followed by a connecting downtown bus. There is no need to assume that a frequent, dedicated airport express shuttle operates all day.

How much is a taxi from Victoria Airport to Downtown Victoria?
A typical taxi journey costs approximately CAD $65–80. Yellow Cab publishes an estimated fare of around CAD $65 between the airport and downtown, but actual prices are calculated using the meter and vary with traffic, waiting time, and destination.

Can I take Uber from Victoria International Airport?
Yes. Uber operates at YYJ, with available ride types and prices shown in the app. A journey to Downtown Victoria usually takes around 25–40 minutes. Follow the app’s instructions to reach the designated airport pickup area.

What is the best transportation option for a late-night arrival?
Check Route 72A first, as it provides some late-night direct departures to downtown. If your flight arrives after the last useful bus or you have significant luggage, a licensed taxi, available Uber ride, or pre-booked private transfer is usually more practical.

This guide was researched and written by Jacob, and it was last updated on November 9, 2026. 0 people found this post useful.

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