Victoria has always been known as a city of creativity, culture, and curiosity. Beyond its natural beauty, this is a place where locals and visitors alike come to learn, grow, and explore new passions. Whether you’re interested in art, cooking, dance, or something practical like coding or language study, Victoria offers a rich variety of workshops and classes for all ages.

Part of what makes Victoria special is the community-driven approach. Many classes are hosted by local artists, chefs, or small business owners who love sharing their skills. This means you aren’t just learning a new skill — you’re building connections with the city’s vibrant cultural fabric.

From hands-on pottery workshops and photography walks to professional development courses and cooking classes, Victoria is full of opportunities to try something new. These experiences are perfect for residents looking to expand their hobbies, or for visitors who want a meaningful activity to add to their trip.

This guide rounds up the top 5 workshops and classes in Victoria for 2025, chosen for their quality instructors, welcoming environments, and unique offerings.

Top 5 Workshops & Classes in Victoria

1. 

The London Chef (Cooking Classes)

Located downtown, The London Chef is one of Victoria’s most popular cooking schools. Founded by Chef Dan Hayes, it offers hands-on culinary classes that range from pasta-making to global cuisines. Participants cook in small groups, then sit down to enjoy the meals together — a social and delicious way to learn. The London Chef is especially popular for corporate team-building and date nights.

• Location: Fort Street, Downtown
  
  
• Highlights: Hands-on cooking, global cuisines, private events
  
  
• Why it ranks: Accessible, fun, and highly interactive.
  
  

2. 

Clay Victoria (Pottery & Ceramics)

Clay Victoria provides pottery classes for beginners and advanced learners. Students get hands-on experience with the wheel, glazing, and hand-building. Many participants describe the classes as meditative and grounding. They also offer drop-in workshops where you can create a piece in just a few hours.

• Location: Johnson Street
  
  
• Highlights: Pottery wheel, hand-building, glazing
  
  
• Why it ranks: Relaxing, creative, and perfect for people wanting a tactile hobby.
  
  

3. 

Pacific Dance Centre

For those who want to move, Pacific Dance Centre offers classes in ballet, jazz, contemporary, and ballroom dance. They cater to all ages and abilities, with a strong reputation for quality instruction. Many adults join simply for fun and fitness, while kids and teens benefit from structured training.

• Location: Quadra Street
  
  
• Highlights: Ballet, jazz, ballroom, fitness dance
  
  
• Why it ranks: Professional instruction with an inclusive, welcoming community.
  
  

4. 

Victoria Photography Workshops

Run by local photographers, these workshops offer everything from beginner DSLR training to advanced editing and guided photo walks around the city. They’re especially popular with visitors looking to capture Victoria’s beauty — Inner Harbour sunsets, cherry blossoms, and murals all feature prominently.

• Location: Various outdoor locations
  
  
• Highlights: Photo walks, editing, beginner DSLR classes
  
  
• Why it ranks: Combines learning with exploring Victoria’s most scenic areas.
  
  

5. 

UVic Continuing Studies

For those seeking academic enrichment, the University of Victoria’s Continuing Studies program offers classes in language learning, business skills, coding, and more. Many courses are part-time and flexible, making them accessible for working professionals. Whether you want to learn Spanish, boost your digital marketing knowledge, or explore history lectures, UVic has options.

• Location: University of Victoria
  
  
• Highlights: Languages, business, professional development
  
  
• Why it ranks: High-quality education from a respected institution.
  
  

SECTION

What’s the most popular cooking class in Victoria?

The London Chef is the go-to, offering hands-on and group-focused cooking experiences.

Where can I take art classes in Victoria?

Clay Victoria for pottery, plus local art studios often offer painting and drawing workshops.

Do workshops in Victoria cater to beginners?

Yes — most classes are beginner-friendly and designed to make learning approachable.

Are there professional skill classes in Victoria?

Yes, UVic Continuing Studies offers courses in business, technology, and languages.

CLOSING

Workshops and classes are a wonderful way to engage with Victoria’s community while gaining new skills. Whether you’re creating pottery at Clay, dancing at Pacific Dance Centre, or cooking with a professional chef at The London Chef, each experience offers more than just knowledge — it connects you with people and traditions that make Victoria unique.

👉 We want to hear from you: Have you taken a workshop or class in Victoria that you’d recommend? Vote below for your favorite spot, or share your experience in the comments.

If you’re looking for more ways to engage with Victoria, check out our guides on local art galleries, bookstores for cozy reads, and foodie experiences like cooking tours and tastings.