If we want to drive into Victoria and spend the afternoon in the Inner Harbor area, is there a convenient place to park?

We want to see the Empress, walk along the harbor, shop on Government St., see the Old Town, Bastion Square...

anything special shops here not to miss?

thanks,
dina

There are a few parking lots close to the inner harbour but the most convenient one is on Michigan Street. It is between Government and Douglas. If you are coming from the ferry that is Blanshard St continue on it until it curves to the right (you have no option you must turn right) That runs into Douglas at the first light (just a block) Turn left on Douglas and Michigan is two blocks.
Turn right on Michigan and the lot is on the right. I can't remember how much it is for the day but there is a meter there and you can buy enough tickets to do you for the length of time you want to spend there.

I know this is over the top, but check out this site.

http://www.robbinsparking.com/lots.php?city_id=1

Every site mapped out with prices.

You could also park in the city parkade in the 700 block of View Street near the Bay centre downtown. Driving south into Victoria along Blanshard, stay in the right lane as it turns onto View. Turn the corner and then put your left blinker on. You can get first-hour-free tickets at many stores.

Stores on Fort Street: a couple of chocolate stores (also Purdy's inside the mall), the Dutch Bakery for a cheap coffee break and more chocolates, Crabtree & Evelyn, The Papery for interesting cards, papers, wrap, etc. There are also some antique stores on Fort as well as coin/stamp stores, and Island Blue for art supplies.

Government Street: Munro's Books, Murchie's Tea & Coffee (snacks and afternoon tea too), Roger's Chocolates, Irish Linens, assorted clothes stores and tacky tourist shops.

Humboldt Street: Scala, European fashions.

Of those, I would not miss The Papery, Munro's Books, Murchie's Tea and Roger's Chocolates. I would also visit Chinatown and walk down Fantan Alley.

Is there any sort of store in particular you're interested in?

thanks so much for all your thoughtful and detailed answers!

icithecat- oh my god!

april- the stores you recommend sound great. we're not looking for anything specific.

thanks again,
dina