Hertz Car Hire
Victoria

The car hire desks at Victoria International Airport are conveniently located directly opposite the arrivals and baggage reclaim area on the ground floor. Once you have your luggage, simply walk across the main arrivals hall towards the exit. The rental desks are clearly marked with overhead signs, so they are hard to miss. After completing your paperwork, you'll be directed to the rental car park, which is just a short, covered walk from the terminal building.

When arriving on a late flight, it's good practice to confirm the hire desk's opening hours beforehand to ensure they coincide with your arrival. The airport and surrounding roads on the Saanich Peninsula are typically very quiet late at night, with minimal traffic. We recommend having your hotel address pre-loaded into your GPS or phone's navigation app. This will help you navigate confidently and efficiently from the airport to your accommodation without any stress.

The most straightforward route for a first-time visitor is to take the Patricia Bay Highway, also known as Highway 17 South. This is the main road leading directly from the airport area towards the city. The drive is well signed and primarily a direct highway, which minimises complex interchanges until you are much closer to the city centre. As you approach the city, Highway 17 becomes Blanshard Street, which will take you right into the heart of downtown Victoria.

During typical weekday commute hours, you should plan for the drive from Victoria International Airport to the Inner Harbour to take approximately 45 to 60 minutes. The main variable is traffic volume on the Patricia Bay Highway (Hwy 17), which can become congested during the morning and late afternoon rushes. Leaving a little extra time in your schedule ensures a more relaxed journey and accounts for any unexpected slowdowns as you get closer to the city centre.

For travellers with a hire car, Fairfield and Esquimalt generally offer easier parking than James Bay. Fairfield is a residential neighbourhood with more unrestricted on-street parking available, while still being close to the city centre. Esquimalt, located just west of the city centre, also provides ample on-street parking. James Bay is very convenient for walking to the Inner Harbour, but much of its on-street parking is reserved for residents with permits, which can make finding a spot more challenging.

When parking on the street in Victoria, it's crucial to read all posted signs carefully before leaving your vehicle. Many areas, especially in neighbourhoods bordering the city centre like James Bay, have designated resident-only parking zones that are strictly enforced. Also, pay close attention to time limits, which can range from one hour to a full day, and be aware of pay parking requirements in the city centre. Taking a moment to double-check the signage can prevent an inconvenient parking fine.

A convenient strategy for a full day of exploration is to use one of the city's centrally located public car parks. The Broughton Street or View Street car parks are excellent options, placing you within easy walking distance of the Inner Harbour, the Royal BC Museum, Government Street's shops, and Chinatown. By parking your hire car once for the day, you can enjoy these attractions on foot without the stress of moving your vehicle and searching for multiple on-street parking spots.

To ensure you find parking easily at Butchart Gardens, especially during the busy summer months or on a weekend, it's best to arrive early in the day. Aim to get there shortly after it opens or before 11 a.m. to avoid the peak visitor rush. The Gardens have a very large, well-organised car park that is free for visitors, but arriving ahead of the crowds makes the experience much smoother and allows you to secure a spot closer to the entrance.

For first-time visitors, the most direct route is to head north from downtown on Blanshard Street, which becomes the Patricia Bay Highway (Highway 17). Continue on Highway 17 for about 15–20 minutes and watch for the large, clear signs indicating the exit for Butchart Gardens. The route is very well signposted, guiding you onto Keating Cross Road and then Benvenuto Avenue, which leads directly to the entrance. It's a scenic and easy drive for those unfamiliar with the area.

For the easiest and most logical driving route, plan to visit Butchart Gardens first in the morning. This allows you to enjoy the gardens with fewer crowds and easier parking. Afterwards, it's a very short and simple drive from the gardens over to the charming seaside town of Sidney for lunch and an afternoon of exploring its shops and waterfront. This order minimises backtracking, as both destinations are located on the Saanich Peninsula near the airport.

On days when cruise ships are in port, you should expect a significant increase in both vehicle and pedestrian traffic around Ogden Point, James Bay, and the Inner Harbour areas. Be prepared for more tour buses, taxis, and horse-drawn carriages on the roads, which can slow traffic flow. It's wise to allow extra travel time if you need to drive through these areas and to be especially vigilant for visitors who may be unfamiliar with the streets and crossings.

When driving near the legislature and Inner Harbour during festivals or weekend events, be prepared for potential road closures and diversions. Streets like Belleville and Government are often closed to vehicular traffic to create pedestrian-friendly zones. It's a good idea to check the City of Victoria's website for event schedules and road closure notices before you head out. Plan to use a car park located a few blocks away from the main event area to avoid getting caught in traffic.

Yes, downtown Victoria has a number of one-way streets that can be surprising for first-time drivers. The main corridors of Yates Street and Fort Street, which run parallel to each other, are both one-way and form a key part of the downtown traffic grid. It's important to pay close attention to street signs when turning and to trust your GPS, as it is typically aware of these one-way systems. Being mindful of this pattern will help you navigate the downtown core more smoothly.

Victoria has several modern, multi-lane roundabouts that function efficiently once you understand them. The key is to yield to all traffic already circulating within the roundabout and to choose your entry lane based on your intended exit. The large roundabout on the Pat Bay Highway near the Uptown shopping centre can be intimidating for newcomers. The best approach is to slow down, read the overhead signs that indicate which lane to use for your destination, and proceed cautiously.

Most downtown hotels are well prepared for arriving guests and have designated passenger loading zones directly in front of their main entrance. These zones typically allow for a brief 5–10 minute stop, which is enough time to unload your luggage and check in. It's best to pull into these designated areas rather than stopping in a live traffic lane. If you're unsure, you can always call your hotel ahead of time to ask about their specific unloading procedure.

A day trip to Sooke is a beautiful coastal drive along Highway 14, also known as the West Coast Road. The route is scenic and straightforward, winding along the coastline. Popular places to stop for views and short walks include Witty's Lagoon Regional Park, French Beach, and Sandcut Beach, which has a lovely short trail to a small waterfall. Plan to give yourself plenty of time to enjoy the drive itself, as the journey is as much a part of the experience as the destination.

The drive to trailheads along the Juan de Fuca Trail, such as Mystic Beach or Sombrio Beach, follows the winding and scenic Highway 14 past Sooke. The road is paved but can be narrow in sections, so it requires attentive driving. Parking at these popular trailheads is limited and can fill up very quickly, especially on sunny weekends. It is highly recommended to arrive early in the morning to secure a parking spot and avoid disappointment.

During busy seasons, such as the fall salmon run or on summer weekends, it's best to arrive at Goldstream Provincial Park early in the morning. Aim to be there before 10 a.m. to secure a spot in the main day-use car parks. The lots can reach capacity quickly, leading to overflow parking along the highway, which is less convenient. An early start ensures you'll have a more relaxed visit and better access to the popular trails and viewpoints.

The easiest way to reach the summit of Mount Douglas Park, known as PKOLS, is by driving up Churchill Drive. The road winds its way up the hill and leads directly to a small car park at the very top. From this car park, you are just a few steps away from breathtaking 360-degree views of the surrounding area. Be aware that the summit road is closed to vehicles until noon on Sundays and public holidays, so plan your visit accordingly for the most direct access.

These three attractions are conveniently clustered together, making for a perfect half-day outing. The best strategy is to drive to the area and find a single parking spot, then explore on foot. You can often find parking along the scenic Dallas Road or on one of the side streets near Beacon Hill Park. From there, it's an easy and pleasant walk through the park to Fisherman's Wharf and along the beautiful waterfront pathway, eliminating the need to move your car multiple times.

Driving to Fort Rodd Hill and the Fisgard Lighthouse National Historic Sites is very straightforward. From Victoria, you'll head west towards the community of Colwood, following the clear signs for the historic site. The attraction is well signposted from the main roads, making it easy to find. Once you arrive, you'll find a large, dedicated visitor car park with ample space, making it a very convenient and stress-free destination to visit with a hire car.

To visit both locations efficiently, it's best to drive to Hatley Castle first, as it is slightly further inland. After exploring the castle and its gardens, it's a very short drive down the hill to Esquimalt Lagoon. This route allows you to see both attractions, which are only minutes apart, in a logical order without any significant backtracking. You can then enjoy a walk along the lagoon's beach before heading back towards Victoria.

When driving in the early morning or after sunset, especially on roads outside the city centre like the Saanich Peninsula or towards Sooke, be extra vigilant for wildlife. Deer are very common in the region and frequently cross roadways unexpectedly. It's important to drive at a cautious speed and use your high beam headlights when appropriate to increase your visibility. This heightened awareness helps ensure a safe journey for both you and the local wildlife.

Fog can be a factor on the Saanich Peninsula, particularly in the mornings during the spring and autumn. Since the airport is located in this area, you may encounter patches of fog when picking up or dropping off your hire car. If you encounter foggy conditions, the best practice is to reduce your speed, turn on your low-beam headlights to be more visible to others, and increase the following distance between your vehicle and the one ahead.

During heavy rain in Victoria, visibility can be reduced, and glare from wet roads can make lane markings more difficult to see, especially at night. It's important to slow down, allow for extra braking distance, and ensure your headlights are on. Pay close attention to the road surface, as water can sometimes pool in low-lying areas. Driving more cautiously during these conditions is the best way to ensure a safe and comfortable trip.

When driving to the Swartz Bay ferry terminal, it's wise to plan your arrival for at least 60 minutes before your desired sailing, and up to 90 minutes during peak summer season, public holidays, or weekends. This buffer accounts for potential traffic on the Pat Bay Highway and the time it takes to navigate the toll booths and lineup lanes at the terminal. Checking the BC Ferries website for current conditions before you leave can also help you plan accordingly.

The route to the Swartz Bay ferry terminal is very direct and well signposted, making it difficult to miss a turn. From downtown, simply get on Blanshard Street and head north. Blanshard Street seamlessly becomes the Patricia Bay Highway (Highway 17 North). You will stay on this highway for its entire length, as it leads directly into the ferry terminal. Just follow the overhead signs for BC Ferries as you get closer.

For a day trip to Salt Spring Island, it's essential to check the BC Ferries schedule in advance and arrive at the Swartz Bay terminal well ahead of your sailing, as this route can be busy. Once on the island, be prepared for a different driving experience. The roads are often narrow, winding, and hilly, with many cyclists and pedestrians. A relaxed and patient driving approach is key to enjoying the island's scenic beauty and charming atmosphere.

To ensure a relaxed drive to Brentwood Bay, plan to leave Victoria a little earlier than your GPS suggests, especially if your reservation is during late afternoon or early evening. The most common route involves taking the Pat Bay Highway (Hwy 17) north and exiting at Keating Cross Road, then following the signs. Building in an extra 15–20 minutes of travel time will help you account for any unexpected traffic and find parking comfortably upon arrival.

You'll find several convenient options for refuelling near the airport and along the main route into Victoria. The nearby town of Sidney has multiple petrol stations that are just a few minutes' drive from the airport terminal. Additionally, there are several stations located directly on or just off the Patricia Bay Highway (Hwy 17) between the airport and downtown. This makes it easy to refuel your hire car before returning it or to top up before a day of exploring.

While GPS is generally very reliable in Victoria, it can occasionally suggest routes through narrow residential streets or complex intersections downtown to save a minute or two. It's often simpler to stick to the main arterial roads, like Blanshard Street, Douglas Street, or the Pat Bay Highway, which are more straightforward. Also, be mindful that GPS may not always be up-to-date on temporary road closures for events, so it's good to watch for local signage.

Visitors should be particularly mindful of speed limits on the major highways, such as the Patricia Bay Highway (Hwy 17) and the Trans-Canada Highway (Hwy 1), as they are regularly monitored. It's also important to watch for speed limit changes when you transition from a highway into a municipality like Saanich or Oak Bay, where the limits often drop significantly. Additionally, be aware that speed limits in all school and playground zones are strictly enforced during designated hours.

Both the University of Victoria (UVic) and Camosun College have designated visitor parking areas, but they operate on a pay-by-plate or pay-and-display system. To find parking most easily, it's best to arrive before 10 a.m. on weekdays, as the lots tend to fill up quickly with student and staff vehicles. Arriving mid-day can be more challenging, so planning an early visit will make for a much smoother experience.

A fantastic and easy scenic loop starts downtown and follows the coastline. Drive along Dallas Road for stunning ocean views, continuing through the beautiful residential streets of Oak Bay. From there, you can head up to the viewpoint at Mount Tolmie Park, which has a small car park at the top. This route offers numerous places to pull over for photos and provides a great overview of the city's natural beauty without significant parking challenges.

For families with children, attractions with dedicated and ample parking are ideal. The Shaw Centre for the Salish Sea in Sidney offers a large, convenient car park right next door. Similarly, Fort Rodd Hill and the Fisgard Lighthouse have a spacious on-site parking lot, allowing for easy access. The Beacon Hill Children's Farm is another great option, with plenty of on-street parking typically available along the park's perimeter, minimising long walks for little legs.

The most stress-free approach is to book a hotel that offers its own on-site or dedicated guest parking. While this often comes with a daily fee, the convenience and security are well worth it. It provides you with a guaranteed spot to return to after your day trips, eliminating the time-consuming and often frustrating search for on-street parking in the busy city centre. This allows you to easily come and go as you please.

Victoria is a very active city, and drivers need to be constantly aware of cyclists and pedestrians. The city centre features a network of protected bike lanes, so be extra cautious when making turns across them. The city also has numerous marked and unmarked crosswalks where pedestrians have the right of way. Areas like the Inner Harbour, Government Street, and Cook Street Village are particularly busy, so expect a slower pace and be prepared to stop frequently.

For early morning photography, parking is typically very simple and accessible. Along Dallas Road, you can usually park directly alongside the waterfront with an unobstructed view, as there are very few cars at that hour. Near the Inner Harbour, street parking on Belleville Street or the surrounding side streets is readily available and often free before time restrictions begin later in the morning. This makes it easy to get your gear and set up for the perfect shot.

A great way to structure your trip is to save the attractions on the Saanich Peninsula for your last day. You could spend your final morning exploring the charming town of Sidney or visiting the beautiful Butchart Gardens. Both are located very close to the Victoria International Airport (YYJ). This itinerary allows you to enjoy a final day of sightseeing without having to worry about a long drive back through city traffic to catch your flight or return your hire car.

Before you leave the airport car park, it's a good idea to do a quick walk-around of the vehicle to note any pre-existing scratches or dings. Take a moment inside to familiarise yourself with the essential controls, such as the headlights, windscreen wipers, and hazard lights. It's also helpful to check the location of the fuel filler. This quick check ensures you are comfortable and confident with the car's operation before you begin your island adventures.