Victoria and Nanaimo Car Rental on Vancouver Island

Quick summary: Renting a car on Vancouver Island saves taking one across on the ferry. Victoria International Airport, on the Saanich Peninsula north of the city, has on-site and off-site rental companies, with Butchart Gardens nearby. Nanaimo Airport lies around 15 km south of Nanaimo, a 15 to 20 minute drive via the Trans-Canada Highway, and puts Tofino and the west coast within reach. Comox and Tofino have smaller airports too.

At a glance
Victoria Airport	On the Saanich Peninsula, north of Victoria
Victoria city	Downtown rental locations
Nanaimo Airport	Around 15 km south of Nanaimo
To Tofino	Around 3 hours from Nanaimo
Other airports	Comox, Tofino
Tours	Victoria tours, Butchart Gardens tours

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What’s the difference between airport and city rentals in Victoria?

Airport rentals suit arrivals by air; downtown locations suit travelers arriving by ferry or seaplane. Off-airport locations can sometimes be cheaper.

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What can you see from Victoria?

The Inner Harbour, Butchart Gardens, whale watching and the coast at East Sooke. See Victoria and Vancouver Island.

What about Nanaimo?

Nanaimo is a relaxed harbor city where traffic is light, except when the mainland ferry unloads. Petroglyph Provincial Park, with ancient rock carvings, is about 10 minutes from downtown.

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Can you fly into Nanaimo Harbour by seaplane?

Yes, and car rental is available there too, close to downtown.

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Frequently Asked Questions