Victoria

Victoria, the capital of Seychelles, sits on the northeastern coast of Mahé Island. As the cultural and economic center of the archipelago, Victoria contains colonial-era buildings, the Sir Selwyn Selwyn-Clarke Market, and the National Botanical Gardens. You can walk through most of the city in a short time, experiencing its history and current way of life within a compact area.

Walking Through Victoria's Layout

Victoria's small size makes it easy to explore on foot. You can walk from downtown to the harbor in about 15 minutes. The city has two main focal points: the area around the Clock Tower and the Sir Selwyn Selwyn-Clarke Market. As you walk through the streets, you'll notice both old colonial buildings and newer structures, giving you an idea of how the city has changed over time.

Victoria Clock Tower

The Victoria Clock Tower stands at the intersection of Independence Avenue and Albert Street. This silver-painted structure is a replica of the clock tower at Vauxhall Bridge in London, erected in 1903 as a memorial to Queen Victoria. Today, many people use it as a meeting point and it's a popular spot for photos.

Sir Selwyn Selwyn-Clarke Market

To experience local life, visit the Sir Selwyn Selwyn-Clarke Market. This active marketplace has been central to Victoria since 1840. If you arrive early in the morning, you'll see local vendors setting up their stalls with fresh fish, tropical fruits, vegetables, and spices. You can also find small shops selling souvenirs, clothing, and local crafts. It's a great place to observe everyday Seychellois life and try some local produce.

Religious Sites in Victoria

Victoria's places of worship reflect the multicultural nature of Seychelles. The Immaculate Conception Cathedral, built in 1892, is the largest Catholic church in Seychelles. Across from the Clock Tower, you'll find St. Paul's Cathedral, the main Anglican church. The colorful Arul Mihu Navasakthi Vinayagar Temple serves the Hindu community, while Muslim worshippers attend the Sheikh Mohamed bin Khalifa Mosque. These religious sites demonstrate how different faiths coexist in this small capital.

Victoria Botanical Gardens

You'll find the Seychelles National Botanical Gardens on the outskirts of Victoria, covering about 5 acres. Established in 1901, these gardens contain a wide variety of native and exotic plant species. You can see Coco de Mer palms, giant tortoises, and a large collection of orchids. The gardens provide a calm space away from the city center and give you a look at the unique plant life of the Seychelles archipelago.

Museums in Victoria

To learn about Seychelles' history and natural environment, visit the National Museum of History and the Natural History Museum. In the National Museum of History, housed in a colonial-era building, you'll find artifacts related to the islands' cultural heritage. The Natural History Museum focuses on the unique ecosystems of Seychelles, with displays of local flora and fauna specimens. Both museums are small but provide details about the Seychelles.

Eating in Victoria

Victoria has several places where you can try Creole cuisine and fresh seafood. The Marie Antoinette Restaurant, in a colonial-era building, serves Seychellois dishes family-style. For a more casual meal, try the local takeaway places near the market, where you'll find affordable Creole food. If you want a waterfront setting, the Boardwalk Bar & Grill provides views of the harbor while you eat and drink.

Transportation in Victoria

While walking is the easiest way to see Victoria, local buses can take you on longer trips around Mahé Island. Taxis are also available, though they can be costly. You can rent a bicycle from shops in the city, allowing you to explore Victoria and its surroundings at your own pace.