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20 Best Things to Do in Vancouver — From Stunning Hikes to Incredible Cultural Experiences

Here are 20 of the top things to do in Vancouver.

Naimul Alam/Travel + Leisure

Vancouver’s beauty is notable, with its majestic mountains, stunning skyline, and sparkling sea luring visitors from around the world. But the city is more than just good looks — it has personality too. Culture and cuisine shine here, the people are friendly, and it’s a safe and welcoming city. Whether you take a trek through the trees, meander through the metropolitan streets, cycle the seawall, or stroll through the shops, one thing’s for certain: you’re sure to get in your steps in this city. With the help of Candace Campo (ancestral name Xets’emits’a, Shíshálh Nation), artist and owner/operator of Talaysay Tours ; Rodolfo Parra, chief concierge of JW Marriott Parq Vancouver and the Douglas Autograph Collection Hotel ; and Alex Chen, executive chef, Boulevard Kitchen & Oyster Bar , we’re sharing the best things to do in Vancouver.

Related: T+L’s Guide to Vancouver

Take an Indigenous-led Talking Totems tour.

Courtesy of Talaysay Tours

The best way to start a visit to Vancouver is to learn about the area’s beginnings. Located on the traditional, ancestral, and unceded territory of the Coast Salish peoples of the Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), and səl̓ilwətaɁɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations, the city that is now known as Vancouver has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. Towering totem poles have stood erect in Stanley Park since 1920, and the Talking Totems tour offered by Talaysay Tours provides an eye-opening journey from past to present through the stories shared by an engaging Indigenous guide.

Grab goodies at the Granville Island Public Market.

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Vancouver’s most celebrated chefs shop at the Granville Island Public Market , like Chef Chen, who picks up fresh sausages from Oyama Sausage Co and warm loaves of bread from Terra Breads when he wants to make a standout charcuterie on his days off. Campo loves it here too, sharing, “My dad and I ate everything here, from Chinese and Greek to Ukrainian and West Coast seafood. Then we’d explore the art studios, walk the boardwalk, and listen to live music.”

Take a tranquil stroll through the Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden.

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The first Chinese “scholar’s garden” to be built outside of Asia, the Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden is one of the city’s most ornamental green spaces — and it’s right in the heart of clamorous Chinatown. A mirror-calm pond houses colorful carp, and twisted trees and quiet covered walkways provide a tranquil space to stroll. Make time for a free guided tour, and be sure to conclude your visit with a complimentary cup of traditional Chinese tea.

Shop the Lonsdale Quay.

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“The Seabus ferry ride to the Lonsdale Quay from downtown Vancouver is a fun must-do experience on its own,” shares Parra. “Once you’re there, walk through the local artisan shops, explore the pier that overlooks a picturesque view of the Vancouver skyline, and then grab a table at Tap & Barrel Shipyards and enjoy the views.”

Admire art at the Vancouver Art Gallery.

As Western Canada’s largest public art museum, the Vancouver Art Gallery is a top attraction for art enthusiasts. Browse the works of Emily Carr, British Columbia’s beloved painter, and explore the blockbuster international shows and contemporary collections found throughout the three-story historic space. 

Related: The Best Times to Visit Vancouver for Lower Prices, Beautiful Weather, and Outdoor Adventures

Take a day trip to Bowen Island.

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“I highly recommend taking a day trip to Bowen Island , located in the middle of Howe Sound, just a short flight or ferry ride away. While there, experience the purest form of the West Coast. Explore the local farmers market, hike up to Dorman Point Lookout, or kayak along the shoreline and experience the stunning beauty BC has to offer,” shares Parra of his top-recommended day trip from the city.

See sea creatures at the Vancouver Aquarium.

Set in Stanley Park, the Vancouver Aquarium is Canada’s largest. Get up-close (and in some cases, hands-on) with the over 65,000 aquatic animals that are housed here, including charming sea otters and swimming sea lions (one weighing in at nearly 1,900 pounds). Not only is this a top tourist spot, but the site is also a center for marine research, ocean literacy, and climate activism.

Walk around the Capilano River Hatchery.

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Built to save the declining salmon stocks in the area, the Capilano River Hatchery is a popular place for a hike. “We like to take our dogs for a walk around the hatchery,” shares Chen. “We hike around the canyon and see schools of salmon spawning there, then have a late picnic lunch by the water, with treats from nearby Thomas Haas .”

Meander through the Vancouver Mural Festival.

A self-guided walking tour of the Vancouver Mural Festival (Aug. 4-13 this year) will give you a great perspective of the city through an artistic lens. Over 300 murals and public art displays can be spotted in neighborhoods throughout Vancouver, featuring the works of both local and international artists.

Visit Olympic Village by boat.

Naimul Alam/Travel + Leisure

First created as a housing hub for athletes during the 2010 Winter Olympics, Olympic Village has now become a popular spot for pub hops and patio dining. “Take the Aquabus — just steps from the Douglas — to Olympic Village where you can explore the local microbreweries such as 33 Acres Brewing and enjoy a day of brewery hopping, a big part of Vancouver culture. While you’re there, enjoy a bite to eat at Argo Café , a hidden gem located in Olympic Village,” shares Parra on how to enjoy the experience.

Browse the Bill Reid Gallery of Northwest Coast Art.

Located up the street from the Vancouver Art Gallery, the Bill Reid Gallery of Northwest Coast Art honors hailed Haida artist Bill Reid, who was known for building bridges between Indigenous and settler people through his work as an artist, broadcaster, and community activist. The space showcases some of his artwork, as well as works of art by contemporary Indigenous artists.

Entertain the family at Science World.

Vancouver’s oceanfront orb is a sight to see, but inside the geodesic dome is a multi-level space for science exploration that the kids (and parents!) are sure to enjoy. At Science World , you can get hands-on with learning galleries, watch engaging science showcases, and catch a show on the largest domed screen on the planet, the Omnimax Theatre, which puts you in the center of the action.

Eat seafood at Fisherman’s Wharf in Steveston.

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Chef Chen lives in Steveston — a 30-minute drive from Vancouver — and enjoys riding his bike around the dyke towards Gary Point Park with his family. “I would ride down to the dock to check out the catch of the day. I love the side stripe prawns, and will often pick up a fresh Dungeness crab for dinner,” he shares of the city’s seafood capital. Don’t feel like cooking it yourself? The area is full of seaside seafood spots serving everything from casual fish and chips to upscale fine dining.

Dine around the world at the Richmond Night Market.

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During the summer months, a visit to Richmond Night Market — the largest outdoor market of its kind in North America — is a must for foodies. There are over 110 food stalls here, serving 600+ dishes and drinks from all around the world. You’ll find Pan-Asian snacks, along with food offerings from Indonesia, Turkey, Mexico, and other parts of the world. Live entertainment and endless snacking make for a fun-filled evening here.

Snowshoe the Howe Sound Crest Trail.

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Found 30 minutes by car from Vancouver, the Howe Sound Crest Trail in West Vancouver is a quiet alternative to the more popular local mountains, and it’s a preferred spot by Campo for winter snowshoeing. “While snowshoeing is something I often do for winter work, I love when I can bring friends and family on an adventure to check out the Howe Sound Crest Trail, overlooking Átl'ka7tsem (Howe Sound). Our peoples have traveled these mountains for generations and I like to think I am a part of this legacy and tradition,” shares Campo of her personal connection to the experience.

Find alpine adventures on Grouse Mountain.

See Howe Sound from a bird’s-eye view with a ride in an enclosed gondola up to the peak of Grouse Mountain . At the top, hike around weaving trails, and meet Coola and Grinder, a pair of orphaned grizzly bears who call the mountaintop habitat home. Kids can climb their way through the Kids Tree Canopy Adventure, and thrill-seekers can try the zipline.

Visit the Chinatown Storytelling Centre.

Vancouver has a rich Chinese-Canadian history, with one of the oldest Chinatowns in the country. The Chinatown Storytelling Centre is a new addition to the area and the first exhibit of its kind in Canada. Inside, you’ll find a showcase of the stories and people who have shaped the city’s past, present, and future through interactive exhibits.

SUP the Salish Sea.

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Campo loves stand-up paddleboarding on the water, especially on Vancouver’s North Shore in the early hours of the morning. “I have on many occasions sat in my car and waited for daylight to launch my paddleboard and paddle from Ch’tl’am (Ambleside) to Dundarave,” she shares. Once she’s far from shore, Campo sings traditional Salish songs and watches as cormorants, loons, harbor seals, and even salmon swim past her board. “They don't see you as a threat and on occasion will swim right up to you,” she explains of one of her favorite pastimes.

Teeter across the Capilano Suspension Bridge.

Since 1883, the Capilano Suspension Bridge has been a top tourist spot. Visit to teeter across the bridge that hangs 230 feet above the forest floor and reaches a distance of 450 feet long. While you’re there, creep along the Cliffwalk, a cantilevered walkway that dangles over the canyon, and take a trek through Treetop Adventures, a series of seven smaller suspension bridges connected to treehouses and towering viewing platforms.

Play at Creekside Park.

Adjacent to Science World, Creekside Park is home to Vancouver’s largest playground (which cost nearly $1 million to build), featuring nature-inspired climbing structures, a massive tube slide, and a zippy zipline. Water and sand play areas keep little ones busy, and a rubberized surface makes the playground more accessible for people with mobility challenges. Water views of False Creek and tree-shaded sitting areas make for the perfect picnic spot.

Explore Vancouver

Plan Your Trip to Vancouver: Best of Vancouver Tourism

Essential vancouver.

How to do Vancouver in 3 days

Family friendly Vancouver

Browse collections

Unforgettable day trips.

Bring the action

Pre-cruise tours

World-class Asian eats

For the whole fam

• Blue Horizon Hotel
• Pan Pacific Vancouver
• Wedgewood Hotel & Spa
• L'Hermitage Hotel
• Hyatt Regency Vancouver
• Hydra Estiatorio Mediterranean
• Black + Blue
• The Sandbar Seafood Restaurant
• Bao Bei Chinese Brasserie
• Five Sails Restaurant
• Granville Island
• Stanley Park
• VanDusen Botanical Garden
• Vancouver Aquarium
• Victoria and Butchart Gardens Tour from Vancouver
• Vancouver City Sightseeing Tour: Capilano Suspension Bridge & Vancouver Lookout
• Grouse Mountain & Capilano Suspension Bridge Park
• Whistler and Sea to Sky Gondola Tour
• Vancouver City Sightseeing Tour: Granville Island & Stanley Park

The Best Time to Visit Vancouver

Weather & Climate

Vancouver International Airport

Neighborhoods to Know

Vancouver Public Transportation

The Best Things to Do

Free Things to Do

Things to Do With Kids

Where to Ski Near Vancouver

The Best Vancouver Beaches

Hiking Near Vancouver

Vancouver's Best Parks

Vancouver's Best Museums

Shopping in Vancouver

Itinerary: Three Days in Vancouver

Day Trips From Vancouver

Best Tours in Vancouver

The Best Food to Try in Vancouver

Downtown Vancouver's Top Restaurants

Nightlife in Vancouver

Breweries in Vancouver

Your Trip to Vancouver: The Complete Guide

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Two hours away from world-class ski resort  Whistler/Blackcomb  and perched on the Pacific Ocean coast, the city holds appeal for soft to extreme adventure lovers and attracts more than 11 million visitors each year .

Vancouver is surrounded both by water and mountains and its proximity to nature gives residents love for the environment and a laid-back charm and friendliness. And although Birkenstocks are more the norm than Manolos, this cosmopolitan city also has upscale shopping, fabulous restaurants, and a happening nightlife.

Vancouver is on the southwest coast of British Columbia, Canada's most westerly province. It is about a three-hour drive from Seattle, Washington .

The City of Vancouver is one of more than 20 municipalities that makes up Greater Vancouver and sits on the edge of the Strait of Georgia, which separates it from Vancouver Island—home to the provincial capital of Victoria.

Vancouver's location is beautiful as it is surrounded by water and tucked into the slopes of the BC Coast Mountain Range.

Planning Your Trip

Best Time to Visit: Vancouver is the Canadian city with the best climate and the worst weather according to writer Allan Fotheringham. Mild and wet in winter, there's no bad time to visit Vancouver but the springtime brings cherry blossoms and the summer is typically high travel season in Vancouver; hotel rates and flights will be more expensive at this time of year. But the extra cost does assure you of better weather (generally speaking, August is the least rainy month). Whilst summer has plenty of festivals, including the incredibly popular  Honda Celebration of Light  fireworks display, there's always something amazing happening in Vancouver—from  fall foliage  to  winter snow sports  or springtime whale watching. 

Language: English, French.

Currency : Canadian Dollars are the official currency but US Dollars are also widely accepted, especially in the tourist shops of Gastown near the cruise terminal at Canada Place.

Getting Around: Vancouver's transit system TransLink is affordable and reliable, with an extensive system of buses, ferries, and Skytrain lines. Monthly, weekly, and daily passes are available and 90-minute passes can be bought onboard transit with exact change (starting at $3 for adults). Use contactless Visa or buy a Compass pass for $6 from 711s and London Drugs; it can be loaded with money to use during your visit.

Travel Tip: Vancouver is an outdoorsy city so be sure to bring your activewear to get out on adventures. It's also a casual city so there's no need to waste luggage space by bringing fancy clothes.

Things to Do

Vancouver is famous for its beautiful surroundings. From the sandy beaches of English Bay, Kitsilano, and Wreck Beach to the extensive forest and lakes of Stanley Park and the snow-sprinkled mountains of the North Shore, there are plenty of outdoor adventures from hiking and biking to kayaking and sailing.

• One of the city's top attractions , Stanley Park sits on almost 1,000 acres of land and offers plenty to do and see. With 6 miles of Seawall around the perimeter of the park, it's the perfect place to take a stroll or bike ride and see all the scenery, from Lions Gate Bridge to Point Grey. Visit Vancouver Aquarium or take a horse and carriage ride to explore the park.
• Canada Place is home to Vancouver's cruise terminal but it also has the incredible FlyOver Canada attraction and the seaplane terminal. Visit one of the waterside restaurants to watch the planes take off, with a stunning backdrop of Stanley Park and the North Shore mountains.
• Granville Island Market is a popular place to visit, thanks to the colorful produce stalls, delicious eating establishments, and variety of artisan shops.

Explore more attractions with our guide to the best things to do in Downtown Vancouver and the top things to do in Vancouver in the springtime .

What to Eat & Drink

Vancouver is a foodie paradise and here you'll find everything from hole-in-the-wall sushi joints to award-winning fine dining. The cuisine is varied but fans of Asian food such as sushi and ramen will be blown away by the selection on Robson Street and in Richmond. Fusion food such as West Coast meets Asian is a popular combination and fresh seafood can be found on most menus. Look out for Vancouver Aquarium's Oceanwise logo, which is a sign of sustainable seafood.

The city also has its share of cocktail bars, from Tiki-themed ones at The Waldorf and Shameful Tiki Room to Chinese apothecary-inspired bars ( The Keefer) and high-end hotel bars.

Explore our articles about the best restaurants in Vancouver and great restaurants to try in Downtown Vancouver .

Where to Stay

Vancouver has a lot of options when it comes to accommodations. There are luxury hotels, romantic hotels, budget hotels, hostels, and Airbnb rentals (including apartments and houses).

The Fairmont Hotel Vancouver is an elegant, historic favorite. The Listel Hotel is a smaller, art-infused downtown hotel with many perks, and the  Sandman Hotel  is a perfectly acceptable less-expensive alternative. Downtown and the West End are the most desirable places to stay as they are safe, central and on the main tourist tour routes .

Whether you're traveling with family, friends, or a romantic partner, use these guides to find the perfect accommodations for your next trip:

• Why You Should Stay in Downtown Vancouver
• Boutique Hotels in Downtown Vancouver 
• Top 10 Family Hotels in Vancouver

Getting There

By Air: The  Vancouver Int'l Airport  (YVR) is 25 min by car to downtown. Airport bus service is frequent and the Canada Line Skytrain travels between downtown and YVR.  Seattle, WA , airport is a three-hour drive.

By Train: Rocky Mountaineer Tours  go through the Rockies between BC and Alberta. ​ Amtrak Cascades  travels between Seattle and Vancouver. Check ​ VIA Rail .

By Bus: Greyhound Lines  serves Vancouver from numerous cities in the US and Canada.

By Water: Clipper Ferry  and ​ BC Ferries  sail between Seattle and Vancouver via Victoria.

By Car: Highway 1, the Trans-Canada Highway, reaches Vancouver from points east. If driving, allow 12 hours from Calgary and five days from Montreal. Vancouver is three hours north of Seattle. Take Interstate 5, which becomes Highway 99 at the  U.S.-Canada border .

Money Saving Tips

• Vancouver Art Gallery is open by donation (suggested $10+) on Tuesday evenings between 5-9 pm.
• Stanley Park is free to visit and can be explored via foot, bike, rollerblades or even a horse-drawn carriage ride.
• Don't bother paying for Wi-Fi at any hotels or elsewhere—Vancouver's downtown area (and most of the surrounding areas) is equipped with free public Wi-Fi   .
• Vancouver's Tickets Tonight website offers discounts on tickets for arts, sports, attractions, and music events around the city.

Tourism Vancouver. "Vancouver's Tourism Industry Fast Facts."

City of Vancouver. "Stanley Park."

Tourism Vancouver. "Free Public Wi-Fi."

20 Top Things to Do in Downtown Vancouver, Canada

Attractions and Hotels Near UBC in Vancouver, BC

Top 16 Things to Do with Kids in Vancouver

Guide to Snowshoeing Near Vancouver

19 Best Things to Do in Vancouver, BC, on a Budget

Foodie Travel Guide to Vancouver, BC

5 Reasons You Should Stay in Downtown Vancouver

Getting Around Seattle: Guide to Public Transportation

The 28 Best Day Trips From Seattle

A Travel Guide for How to Visit Seattle on a Budget

8 Best Things to Do on the Downtown Seattle, Washington Waterfront

Palm Springs Guide: Planning Your Trip

Toronto Guide: Planning Your Trip

Your Trip to Denver: The Complete Guide

Complete Guide to Grouse Mountain in Vancouver, BC

Your Trip to Bangkok: The Complete Guide

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Must Do Canada

The Best Things to Do in Canada

38 of the Best Things to Do in Vancouver

May 23, 2022 By Matthew G. Bailey 20 Comments

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Things to Do in Vancouver Last updated: April 18th, 2023

When people ask us what we think is the most beautiful city in Canada, Vancouver is our answer. Although it’s one of the most densely populated cities in North America, it’s also surrounded by stunning natural beauty, including lush rainforest, mountains, and the Pacific Ocean. It’s because of its setting that we often rank Vancouver, British Columbia as one of the prettiest cities on Earth.

Vancouver is also vastly urban, with hundreds of skyscrapers dotting the landscape. You can easily be surrounded by a concrete jungle in the morning and out in the forest in the afternoon. This is what makes it such a great place to visit. However, it’s also one of the most expensive cities in Canada, especially when it comes to real estate and accommodation.

If you’re looking for a vibrant art scene, loads of delicious restaurants, historic districts, thriving markets, incredible urban parks, and beautiful vistas, Vancouver should be on your bucket list. In this Vancouver Travel Guide, we’ll share with you some of the best things to do in Vancouver while also sharing some tips on saving money, how to get around, where to stay, and more.

Table of Contents

Things to Do in Vancouver

Vancouver is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Canada, which creates loads of attractions, activities, and other things to do. Below is a list of some of the best things to do when visiting Vancouver.

Stanley Park

Whenever we go to Vancouver, we always make sure we take time to ride a bike or go for a walk around Stanley Park . It’s Vancouver’s first urban park and remains the largest with over 400 hectares of natural West Coast rainforest. It’s filled with beautiful beaches, local wildlife, and historical landmarks. It’s also home to the incredible aquarium. Whether you walk within Stanley Park while marvelling at magnificent trees, or take the seawall for stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, Stanley Park is a great place to go to be immersed in nature while inside the city. The park is open from 6 am until 10 pm unless otherwise posted.

Vancouver Aquarium

While visiting Stanley Park, you may want to pay a visit to the Vancouver Aquarium as well. This is Canada’s largest aquarium with more than 70,000 beautiful creatures, such as dolphins, anacondas, sea otters, sloths, and more. The Vancouver Aquarium is also well respected for its research and marine stewardship and is a great place to learn about the region’s marine life.

Granville Island

Located right in the middle of the city is a little peninsula that’s become a popular hub for food and drink. Granville Island has a wonderful food market, a famous brewery, and a variety of cool shops. In the summer, it’s also alive with boat taxis, paddle-boarders, and kayakers.

Ride a Ferry

Speaking of Granville Island, one of the best ways to get there is by ferry! When walking around the waterfront, you’ll notice all sorts of little ferries travelling between places such as Kitsilano Beach, Granville Island, and Science World. It’s fairly cheap and is a fun way to just travel around and see Vancouver from the water. Consider buying a day pass and just enjoying it throughout the day.

Vancouver Maritime Museum

Speaking of riding a ferry, one of the dock locations is near the Vancouver Maritime Museum , a hidden gem in Kitsilano that shares stories about the Pacific Northwest and the Arctic while creating experiences that build bridges between the past and future. From their unique waterfront location,  visitors can explore  exhibitions and take part in programs about life on and around the Pacific Northwest and Arctic oceans. Their most popular exhibition is the RCMP Vessel St. Roch, a National Historic Site housed in an iconic mid-century modern A-frame shelter. 

Take a Boat Tour

Soak in the unparalleled views of Vancouver’s breathtaking coastline aboard one of Sea Vancouver’s zodiac-style vessels, which is the fastest and most exciting way to see Vancouver from the sea!

Your trip starts with a relaxing cruise along Vancouver’s Inner Harbour before soaring up to 55 km/h as you cross through the Burrard Inlet. Along the way, you’ll enjoy the sights of Vancouver’s Coal Harbour, the North Shore, English Bay, False Creek and Stanley Park. Tours are 90 mins in length and depart hourly from Granville Island.

Rent a Seadoo, Kayak, or Paddleboard

Surrounded by water, Vancouver is an excellent city to go kayaking, paddle boarding , or jet skiing . Whether you’re looking to go solo or join a guided tour, Vancouver Water Adventures has something for everyone. Their fleet includes 35 jet skis, 80 paddleboards, 60 kayaks and two beautiful tour boats. They’re located at Granville Island and at a kiosk on Kitsilano Beach. Whether you are experienced or inexperienced, a local or a visitor looking for a local experience, they will help you find the best activity for your trip.

Grouse Mountain

Quite possibly Vancouver’s top outdoor attraction, Grouse Mountain is a great place to go for gruelling mountain hikes or even an easy gondola ride to get jaw-dropping views of the city and the surrounding mountains. You can also see wildlife like bears and owls, enjoy outdoor shows like the Lumberjack show and Birds in Motion. In the winter, enjoy adventures including the stunning Light Walk, Sliding Zone, outdoor skating pond, or give snowshoeing a try on an array of trails. You can also rent skates, sleds and snowshoes.

The Gondola costs approximately $80 for a return-trip. Get your tickets here!

Rent a Bike

Vancouver is one of the best cities in Canada for biking. Whether you’re looking to share the urban streets with cars while cycling next to skyscrapers or heading off for an adventure in Stanley Park to cycle along the seawall, there’s no shortage of options for peddling a bike. In fact, due to its immense popularity, there’s a plethora of places to rent a bike from as well. Some options include English Bay Bike Rentals, Cycle City Tours, Spokes Bicycle Rentals, and Freedom Bike Rentals.

Capilano Suspension Bridge

Another popular attraction is the 450-foot-long Capilano suspension bridge, which hangs over the Capilano River in North Vancouver. For those afraid of heights, it’s quite the thrill. Soar over the Capilano River as you cross the suspension bridge, climb through old-growth fir trees on the Treetops Adventure, and rise high above the canyon along a towering wall of granite on the new Cliffwalk.

Buy Your Capilano Suspension Bridge tickets here.

Lynn Canyon Park Suspension Bridge

If you’d like to live like a local and go for a hike in a beautiful area complete with another suspension bridge, Lynn Canyon Park is a great option. For one, the suspension bridge here is free and it’s still 150 feet high! There are also short scenic hikes, swimming holes, and waterfalls. It’s a great place to spend a good half day.

The Polygon Gallery

The Polygon is a vibrant art institution that inspires and provokes cultural insight through adventurous programming. The Gallery is committed to championing artists and cultivating engaged audiences. Its lens of inquiry creatively responds to shifting perceptions of the world, through the histories and evolving technologies of photography and related media.

• Vancouver Whale Watching

If you really want to see something magical while visiting Vancouver, consider a Vancouver whale watching tour. Vancouver and Vancouver Island are famous for Orca whales, including resident orca whales and transient orca whales. We’ve had spectacular whale-watching experiences around Vancouver and also out in Port Renfrew on Vancouver Island. While nature can be unpredictable, your chances of seeing them are very high. Tours cost approximately $145 CAD. The only company we’ve gone with is Seabreeze Adventures, which is located in Steveston. During our tour with them, we saw a pod of resident killer whales and a pod of transient killer whales. Pretty amazing, especially when you consider it’s only 30 minutes from downtown Vancouver!

Gastown and the Steam Clock

No visit to Vancouver would be complete without visiting Gastown, Vancouver’s oldest neighbourhood. Once home to a single tavern back in 1867, it’s now a very trendy part of the city with a plethora of restaurants, cafes, vars, and shops. It’s also home to beautiful historic buildings, cobblestone streets, and the famous Steam Clock, which goes off every hour.

Beaty Biodiversity Museum

Located on Vancouver Campus, the Beaty Biodiversity Museum gives you the chance to fall in love with the diversity of life through more than 500 exhibits, more than 2 million specimens, and Canada’s largest blue whale skeleton. Enjoy more than 20,000 square feet of exhibits, including dinosaur trackways from BC’s early Cretaceous period, and myriad fossils, mammals, reptiles, and plants from around the region and across the planet.

Take a Historic Walking Tour

If you really want to learn about Vancouver’s history while taking in the shabby East Village and Gastown districts, consider taking a Forbidden Vancouver walking tour . You’ll learn all about Vancouver’s dark history, including bootlegging, opium dens, corruption, and riots.

Go on a Date

As you can imagine, Canada’s most beautiful city has no shortage of options when it comes to romantic date ideas in Vancouver . Whether you’re looking for something in nature, such as a hike in Lynn Canyon, or something in the city, such as visiting one of the many museums, there are many options to choose from.

Vancouver Mysteries

If you love solving clues and are looking for an outdoor activity in downtown Vancouver, Vancouver Mysteries offers four outdoor games to uniquely explore the city. Choose the game, date and time and then watch for an email with digital waivers to sign, further instructions and the secret start location where you meet a Game Operator in character as a detective, spy or Agent X. They start your story and provide you with everything you need to solve your mystery, including a map, clues, artifacts and tools. This is real-life (no apps to download), self-guided, and only available in Vancouver.

Robson Street

If you’re visiting Vancouver, you probably want to spend some time in the city itself and one of the best streets to walk around is Robson Street. It’s full of delicious international restaurants, hipster cafes, and shops. It’s a great place for people-watching and feeling the soul of Vancouver. For lovers of Japanese food, there’s no shortage of it in Vancouver and you’ll find plenty of sushi bars, ramen shops, and Japanese bars to enjoy here.

This recently-converted industrial neighbourhood is now home to some of the city’s most popular pubs and eateries. It’s one of those places where you can eat lunch on a patio, go for a walk along the neighbouring Seawall, admire the street art, or just hang out in one of the nearby parks, such as David Lam Park or George Wainborn Park.

Watch a Sporting Event

If you’re into professional sports, Vancouver’s a great place to be. Vancouver is home to both a Canadian Football Team – the BC Lions – as well as a National Hockey League team – The Vancouver Canucks. If you’re visiting in the summer, football is on the agenda, whereas in the winter, it’s all about the Canucks. Vancouver is also home to the White Caps soccer team.

Find Filming Locations of Your Favourite Movies

Did you know that Vancouver is known as the Hollywood North? In fact, many Hollywood productions are filmed in Vancouver and you can join Fans of Vancouver on one of their filming location tours, seasonal walking tours, or urban adventures around Vancouver. Vancouver has productions filming all over the city on a regular basis and they will give you the best “movie tour” possible.

Go Nude at Wreck Beach

If you’re looking for a nude beach, this is the only one in the city. Here you’ll find naked folks just “hanging” out, sunbathing, swimming, and listening to music. It’s places like this that made Vancouver famous back in the ’70s. It’s located in Pacific Spirit Regional Park.

Vancouver Art Gallery

If art is your thing, you won’t want to miss the collection of national and international artwork at the Vancouver Art Gallery. It’s home to more than 9,000 works of art, a whole exhibit devoted to Emily Carr (BC’s favourite historical artist) and late-night parties with live music. Admission is $24 CAD approx but is pay-what-you-want on Tuesdays.

Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden

Did you know? This was the first authentic Chinese garden built outside of China. It’s also been named the top city garden in the world by National Geographic and is located right in the heart of the city. Admire the ponds filled with koi fish, the 150-year-old miniature trees, and the various covered walkways as you walk around the tranquil Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden. It’s made even more special considering it was made using 14th-century methods, which means no glue, power tools, or screws! Admission is just $14 CAD (approx).

VanDusen Botanical Garden

VanDusen Botanical Garden is a beautiful botanical garden situated in Vancouver’s Shaughnessy neighbourhood. The Garden covers 22 hectares (55 acres) and displays plants from all over the world, including an extensive collection of native British Columbia (Northwest Coast) plants.

In addition to water features throughout the rolling landscape, special features in the garden include carved totem poles, a small Japanese garden and large stone sculptures. There’s also a beautiful maze adjacent to VanDusen’s heirloom vegetable garden.

Nitobe Memorial Garden

Located at the University of British Columbia, Nitobe Memorial Garden is a traditional Japanese stroll garden with an authentic tea house and is considered one of the most authentic Japanese gardens outside of Japan.

The garden is beautiful in all weather and highlights the passing of the seasons such as cherry blossoms in spring, blooming irises in summer, maple leaves glowing red and yellow in the fall, and both native and Japanese trees pruned in winter. No matter what time of year, carpets of moss, bridges that span a koi pond and iris bed, and stone paths that cross waterfalls, create a peaceful atmosphere that invites the visitor to reflect on both the beauty of nature and its place in their lives.

Greenheart TreeWalk

Also located at the University of British Columbia, the Greenheart TreeWalk will spark your adventurous spirit as you navigate suspended walkways and tree platforms high above the forest floor. Located in the heart of UBC Botanical Garden, the 310 metre-long treetop canopy walkway hangs from huge Douglas firs, cedars and grand firs, many of which are over 100 years old. Reaching a height of nearly 20 metres above the forest floor, the walkway will give you a bird’s eye view of Vancouver’s magnificent coastal temperate rainforest.

Get a View from Harbour Centre Observation Deck

If you’re looking for a view of the city, head on over to the downtown Harbour Centre’s observation deck for panoramic views over the city, mountains, and ocean. Admission is $18 CAD (approx).

Museum of Anthropology at UBC

If you’re looking for one of the world’s finest displays of Northwest Coast First Nations arts, this is the place to go! Located at the University of British Columbia just 20 minutes from downtown Vancouver, you’ll find spectacular carvings, weavings and contemporary artworks inside a gorgeous building overlooking the mountains and sea. You’ll also find the world’s largest collection of works by acclaimed Haida artist Bill Reid, 9,000 objects from around the world, a collection of European ceramic unique to North America, and monumental Haida houses and totem poles on the museum grounds. Admission is $18 CAD (approx).

Bill Reid Gallery of Northwest Coast Art

This Gallery is the only public Gallery in Canada dedicated to contemporary Indigenous Northwest Coast Art , making it a spectacular place to witness art from the region. Inside you’ll find the Bill Reid SFU Art Collection, as well as special exhibitions and programs that build bridges between all peoples. It’s located in downtown Vancouver, within walking distance of the Pacific Centre. Admission is $13 CAD.

Richmond Night Market

For all the foodies out there, one of the coolest – and tastiest – spots you can visit in the city is the Richmond Night Market. Open between May and September, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped foot into Asia, enjoying a wide range of Asian food, culture, and shopping. Snacks start at $2 CAD.

Go on a Food Tour

Vancouver is a great place for food lovers and Vancouver Foodie Tours is one of the most popular food tours in the city. They’ll take you to as many as eight different spots around Gastown and Granville Island, making sure your tastebuds are satisfied. Tickets start at $95 CAD.

Experience Canada with FlyOver Canada

Want to get a taste of the second-largest country on Earth in just 8 minutes? Located at Canada Place on Vancouver’s waterfront, FlyOver Canada utilizes state-of-the-art technology to give you the feeling of flight. You will hang suspended, feet dangling, before a 20-metre spherical screen while the film whisks you away on an exhilarating 8-minute journey across Canada , from east to west. Special effects, including wind, mist and scents, combine with the ride’s motion to create an unforgettable experience. This motion ride is extremely popular and some people even told us that it made them cry from seeing all the beauty of Canada.

Vancouver Police Museum

The Vancouver Police Museum and Archives are dedicated to preserving the history and memory of British Columbia’s largest independent municipal agency, the historic City Coroner’s Services and the City Analyst’s Laboratory, serving as an educational institution, living memorial, cultural anchor, and bridge between Vancouver citizens, visitors and local law enforcement.

The museum is located on the top floor of the city-owned Coroner’s Court building and permanent exhibits include the original morgue and autopsy suite. The museum maintains a collection of more than 30,000 objects, including archival documents, photographs, publications, confiscated firearms and other weapons, counterfeit currency, and various other artifacts and memorabilia, of which an estimated 40% is on display.

Gulf of Georgia Cannery National Historic Site

If you’re into history, this could be a great thing to add to your Vancouver bucket list. The Gulf of Georgia Cannery Society honours the importance of Canada’s West Coast fishing history by sharing stories of the fishing industry and fishing communities through exhibitions, collections, programs, and events.

Explore the Sea from Sewell’s Marina

Whether you’re looking to rent your own speed boat, go fishing, or join a sea safari, Sewell’s Marina has you covered. Located in Horseshoe Bay in West Vancouver, Sewell’s Marina has been introducing visitors to Vancouver’s ocean playground since 1931. This includes Fishing Derbies, Sea Safari Eco Tours, Company Scavenger Hunts and their famous self-drive boat rental fleet. You can also enjoy lovely ocean and mountain views from their “deck of the bay”, even if you’re not up for an ocean adventure. Howe Sound offers over 300 sq. miles of sheltered islands and bays to explore and the Sunshine Coast and Gulf Islands are within easy sailing distance of Horseshoe Bay.

Take a Day Trip to Whistler

If you want to explore Whistler Village and marvel at the beautiful waterfalls in the famous Sea to Sky region, you might want to opt for a day tour from Vancouver to Whistler with BeWild Adventures . They also offer a number of guided hikes as well.

Taste Craft Beer at the Many Vancouver Breweries

Trying to decide on the best breweries in Vancouver is like trying to decide on the best pizza joint in Italy. There are so many breweries in Vancouver and all of them are good. You can’t go wrong. However, we reached out to a local and asked them to name five. Here they are:

Brassneck Brewery: According to many locals, Brassneck Brewery makes the best beer in the city. Whether you order your favourite pint or a flight of four, the prices are very reasonable and they have a great location on Main Street.

Stanley Park Brewing: Located right inside Stanley Park, not far from Second Beach, Stanley Park Brewing is an excellent place to sample some craft beer and munch down on some delicious food. They also have an awesome patio and are surrounded by tennis courts and nature.

33 Acres Brewing Company: If you’re looking for coffee and beer, this is the place to go.  It’s now become so popular, that they’ve had to expand…but not too much.

Callister Brewing Company: Located within walking distance of must-see Gastown, this cool little brewery creates tiny, collaborative brews. People love it not only for their great beer but because 4 microbreweries share the same space, giving you lots of options. We’ve also heard great things about the bacon cheese board.

Powell Brewery: If you love Tiny and Old Skool, this is the place to go. This husband-and-wife-team-owned nano-brewery won “Beer of the Year” from the Canadian Brewing Awards for their Old Jalopy Pale Ale. Suddenly, they weren’t so small, as more people requested their all-natural, hand-crafted beers.

If that’s not enough for you, consider a day trip out to Port Moody or North Vancouver for their walkable brewery districts. Both are accessible by transit. Cheers!

Where to Eat in Vancouver

Vancouver has so many dining establishments that an entire website could be dedicated just to that. However, if you just want some quick recommendations based on places we’ve been, here are a few that stand out.

Water St. Café : Located in the popular neighbourhood of Gastown and literally across the street from the world-famous Steam Clock, Water St. Café is a great place to go for some Italian-influenced fine dining. It has a fancy look on the inside, making it great for a date as well, in addition to a lovely patio and an upstairs dining area that is known for its nightly live music. They also have a very good happy hour menu if you’re looking to sip back on a cocktail while enjoying the variety of people across the street admiring the Steam Clock. We visited during the month of May when they were hosting their annual Crab Fest, allowing us to indulge in many crab-inspired dishes. We really loved their Crab Panzanella, which featured BC Dungeness crab served on a giant garlic crouton. Yum!

Honey Salt : Another beautiful restaurant that’s located right inside BC Place is Honey Salt . This neighbourhood restaurant combines classic comfort with a relaxed sophistication, serving chef-driven, farm-to-table cuisine with an emphasis on locally and regionally sourced ingredients that highlight the bounty of British Columbia in an approachable and comfortable setting. We were able to try a variety of dishes during our visit, such as their Pan Roasted Halibut, Delmonico Ribeye, and their delicious Crispy Brussels Sprouts, which come with lemon, Parmigiano Reggiano, and crushed chili flakes. They also serve breakfast, lunch, and dessert. We recommend trying their Society Chocolate & Banana Cake.

Stanley Park Brewing Restaurant & Brewpub : Also recommended for anyone looking for craft beer, Stanley Park Brewpub is a great place to eat as well. Located inside Stanley Park, this brewpub serves up brunch, lunch and dinner, including some really delicious bowls. We had both their Schezuan rice bowl with chicken, crispy noodles, and kimchi, as well as the Ahi Tuna Poke Bowl, which features soy-marinated tuna, crab, edamame, tempura puffs, and more. Both were delicious but made even better when washing it down with a pint of craft beer . They also feature a variety of appetizers, pizzas, burgers, and snacks.

Tips for Saving Money in Vancouver

When it comes to costs, Vancouver is one of the most expensive cities in Canada, especially when it comes to real estate. However, there are still some ways you save some money.

Free parks and gardens: There are loads of free parks and gardens to enjoy around the city, such as the world-famous Stanley Park. Spend some time outside, enjoy the fresh air, and don’t spend a dime.

Free Walking Tours: Every time we take a “free” walking tour somewhere in the world, we’re impressed. It’s just a great way to learn some key facts and stories before enjoying the city at your own pace. You should definitely be prepared to tip but still, it’s a cheap way to enjoy a new city.

Discounted Entertainment: If you want to experience the entertainment side of Vancouver, check out ticketstonight.ca to look for half-priced entertainment tickets.

Enjoy Happy Hour: Eating and drinking during happy hour is a great way to save money and most bars and restaurants have discounts at certain times. Search for the Ultimate Happy Hours website for updated info across the city.

Same-Day Sports Tickets: If you want to watch a sports game and save money at the same time, the Tourism Vancouver Visitors’ Centre actually offers “Tickets Tonight”, which is half-priced tickets for events that haven’t sold out.

Spend Tuesday evening at the Vancouver Art Gallery on a Tuesday: Want to check out some incredible art for cheap? After 5 pm on Tuesday nights, the Vancouver Art Gallery is by donation only.

Coupon Sites: Like most cities, Vancouver has lots of deals on sites like Groupon and Living Social.

Purchase Tickets Online: Vancouverattractions.com lets you purchase tickets in advance, saving you up to 30%!

Where to Stay in Vancouver

Vancouver is home to a plethora of accommodation , ranging from budget hostels to super high-end hotels and everything in-between. For those on an extreme budget, you might want to try Couchsurfing, which can be great to meet like-minded people as well. Other recommendations include:

Samesun Hostel: For those on a budget, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a better hostel than Samesun Vancouver. It’s centrally located, near the Skytrain, and is within walking distance from Granville Island and Gastown. It’s one of the most popular hostels in Vancouver and for good reason.

Best Western Premier Chateau Granville Hotel & Suites : Located right in the heart of Vancouver, within walking distance to almost everything, this Best Western Premier is a great option for those looking for a mid-range hotel with all the amenities you need. Many of the rooms have balconies as well, allowing you to get some fresh air while admiring some very beautiful views of the city.

Sheraton Vancouver Wall Centre: Way back in 2010, we scored this beautiful hotel on Priceline for a 50% discount. While I’m not sure you’d find a deal like that anymore, all I can say is that the views from our balcony on the 27th floor were hard to beat. Like any Sheraton hotel, it’s beautiful inside and out.

Getting to Vancouver

If you’re a visitor looking for different ways of getting to Vancouver, here’s some practical advice on how to get here.

Getting to Vancouver by Plane

If you’re flying into Vancouver, you’ll most likely be flying into Vancouver International Airport (YVR). Although there are other smaller airports around, this is the one that gets used by most visitors. It’s located just 25 minutes from downtown, is rated as one of the best airports in North America, and offers easy access to downtown Vancouver, including the Skytrain.

From the airport to downtown, take the Canada Line for just $13 CAD (approx).

Getting to Vancouver by Car

Vancouver is also a great place to visit by car. Most people would be either driving west from interior BC or the mountains or driving up from the USA. Vancouver shares one of the busiest border crossings in the country and lots of people traverse the border for work. The drive between Seattle and Vancouver is less than three hours. If you’re on a Canada Road Trip , the drive from Calgary to Vancouver is one of the most scenic drives in the country, passing through numerous national parks and jaw-dropping scenery.

Getting to Vancouver by Bus

Although western Canada lost the service of Greyhound, there are still a few options for getting to Vancouver by bus. From Calgary, there’s the Rider Express, which takes just over 13 hours. From Seattle, the bus takes around 4 hours and is served by Greyhound, Bolt Bus, and Quick Shuttle. The easiest way to check options is by using Busbud.com.

How to Get Around Vancouver

Vancouver is probably one of the best cities in Canada for public transportation. This is due to the fact that the city is so densely populated, similar to places like New York. Because of this, tourists will find it quite easy to use the train, buses, or other modes of transportation.

Train: Both the SkyTrain Rapid Transit system and the Canada Line are common ways of traversing the city of Vancouver. You can get almost anywhere with one-way tickets ranging from $3 to $5.75 CAD. You can also buy a day pass for $10.50 CAD or a Compass Card for loading money onto. For schedules and more, visit Translink.ca.

Bus: Vancouver’s bus system also works well but only operates on one-zone fares, which can be annoying at times. Tickets between the trains and the buses are non-transferable either unless you use the Compass Card. However, if you’re travelling around at night, the buses run later than the trains, so they might be your best choice.

SeaBus: If you’re travelling by water, such as from Downtown Vancouver to the North Shore, you can jump on the SeaBus, which is also run by Translink.ca.

Taxi: Like most of Canada, taxis are not cheap but they can be convenient. Prices start at $3.50 CAD and it’s $1.89 CAD per kilometre after. As of January 2020, Uber and Lyft are also possible in downtown Vancouver.

Bicycle: Vancouver is one of the most bike-friendly cities in the country and there are many places to rent them. We definitely recommend renting one to bike around Stanley Park, but traversing the city can be a good option as well. The public bike rental system is called Mobi, which costs $12 CAD per day for unlimited 30-minute rides.

Weather in Vancouver (Best Time to Visit)

Vancouver is one of the mildest cities in Canada, receiving very little snowfall and rarely dipping below 0°C. It does, however, get a lot of rain, especially in the winter months.

The busiest time to visit Vancouver is just like all cities in Canada – the summer! It gets quite hot and sunny during the summer months, averaging around 25°C. Like all Canadian cities, this is when the city truly comes to life. However, prices are also the highest at this time.

As mentioned, the winters in Vancouver are milder than almost anywhere else in Canada, with temperatures averaging just 6°C. However, you can still enjoy a “classic winter” by hitting the slopes of the world-famous Whistler Mountain Resort or Grouse Mountain.

Other times to visit would be the shoulder seasons of spring and fall. These can be rainy times to visit but are generally warm in temperature. Not hot. However, prices are less, crowds are fewer, and certain activities are in their prime, such as whale watching , which is best between April and May.

Fun Things to Do Beyond Vancouver

Another great part about Vancouver is that there are so many things to do outside of the city as well. From taking the ferry over to magical Vancouver Island, road tripping up to Whistler, driving to wine country around Kelowna, or going all the way past the Canadian Rockies to Calgary, Alberta, there are so many things to do for all types of travellers.

For more on what to do outside of Vancouver, check out these articles below:

• Things to Do in British Columbia
• Things to Do in Whistler in Winter
• Things to Do in Victoria, BC 
• Things to Do in Kelowna
• Things to Do in Nanaimo

About Matthew G. Bailey

Matthew G. Bailey is the founder and editor-in-chief of Must Do Canada. Growing up in Alberta to a mother from Quebec and a father from Newfoundland, Matt spent his childhood playing hockey under the Northern Lights and hanging out in the forest before moving to Calgary and travelling to more than 250 cities spanning 42 countries and 6 continents. He loves travel, learning new things, playing sports, writing, making videos, photography, and scuba diving. You can also find him at LiveLimitless.net .

Reader Interactions

April 21, 2020 at 6:15 pm

This is a very high-quality report! I would like to share it with my classmates at The University of Calgary! This travel information would be helpful for those of us who will be studying at The University of British Columbia soon! And The Saver Card would be a great resource for Students also! Especially the International Students!

April 21, 2020 at 11:22 pm

Thanks, Chris. I’ll have to reach out to the universities and see what they think!

May 10, 2021 at 10:13 am

Vancouver is an awesome city. Been there many times. Can’t wait to go back for another visit.

May 12, 2021 at 12:38 pm

Love visiting Vancouver. Two of my favorites are Fly Over Canada & Stanley Park.

May 15, 2021 at 12:45 pm

Great ideas!

May 18, 2021 at 11:31 pm

Really neat reading about one’s own city…nicely done!

May 24, 2021 at 2:13 pm

We have a trip planned for the fall and are so looking forward to taking advantage of some of these great Vancouver sites!

May 26, 2021 at 12:07 am

This is a great article! Born and raised in the Fraser Valley and we are always checking out new trails or parks in all the neighbouring cities.

May 26, 2021 at 7:20 am

Thank you sharing the list of things to do in Vancouver. This will be very useful for them who are new in this city.

May 26, 2021 at 7:22 am

Thank you sharing the list of things to do in Vancouver. This city is best to explore.

May 26, 2021 at 7:43 am

I’m moving to Vancouver in the fall and absolutely can’t wait to try some of this stuff out, thanks so much for all the tips!

May 27, 2021 at 7:40 am

Hit up Wreck Beach last Friday, absolutely loved it!

February 6, 2022 at 10:16 pm

I recently started watching your videos and must have watched atleast 20 of them over the past weekend. They ave given me amazing travel goals. I came to your website from your youtube channel and while reading this article I could hear both of your voices dictating this article 😀 Thank you for your great informational videos!

February 8, 2022 at 4:47 pm

haha that’s awesome! Thanks so much, Isha!

April 5, 2022 at 11:35 pm

Thank you for sharing this informative blog. This must be very helpful for those who are new to the city.

May 25, 2022 at 9:22 pm

Looks like an amazing place. Really hoping yo visit sometime soon.

May 26, 2022 at 2:50 pm

Bang on! Been many times!

June 1, 2022 at 10:54 am

These all sound awesome!

June 7, 2022 at 6:39 am

Hope to go one day!

August 29, 2022 at 8:18 am

We plan on going west and this guide will certainly help guide us. Saved on my favorites.

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Illuminating Vancouver's crime-and-vice-addled history, this quirky museum has had a recent makeover, uncovering the former coroner's courtroom (spot the…

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A popular summertime hangout for families, this shoreline free-entry water park in Stanley Park has lots of fountain-shooting action to keep your kids…

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This handsome collection of totem poles clustered at Brockton Point is one of Stanley Park's busiest visitor lures. Arrive early or late on summer days to…

Equinox Gallery

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Kids Market

A kaleidoscopic mini shopping mall for under-10s (there's even a special child-size entrance door), the Kids Market is crammed with 25 family-friendly…

Contemporary Art Gallery

A flexible three-room space, often with a different show in each, this smart, white-walled gallery exhibits striking, sometimes complex works in a wide…

Stanley Park Nature House

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Pendulum Gallery

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Marine Building

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Engine 374 Pavilion

May 23, 1887, was an auspicious date for Vancouver. That's when Engine 374 pulled the very first transcontinental passenger train into the fledgling city,…

Vancouver Public Library

This dramatic Colosseum-like building must be a temple to the great god of libraries. If not, it's certainly one of the world's most magnificent book…

RBC Royal Bank

This main Vancouver branch of one of Canada's biggest bank chains has a huge hidden artwork on its 2nd floor. Head up the escalator just inside the…

Kitsilano Showboat

An 80-year-old tradition that generations of locals know and love, this alfresco waterfront stage near Kits Pool offers free shows and concerts in summer…

Morris & Helen Belkin Art Gallery

This ever-intriguing gallery specializes in contemporary and often quite challenging pieces, with chin-stroking new exhibitions opening in its high…

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Screening outdoor, admission-free movies at venues around Metro Vancouver every summer, the company's Stanley Park events often draw thousands of blanket…

Chung Collection

Leave your photo ID at the front desk of the lower level of UBC's main library building, and then wander around a roomful of exhibits chronicling the…

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Completed in 1895 and designated as a cathedral in 1929, the city's most attractive Gothic-style church is nestled incongruously alongside looming glass…

University of British Columbia

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English Bay Beach

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20 Best Things to Do in Vancouver, Canada

Enveloped by snow-dusted peaks and home to sandy beaches and an abundance of forested trails, Vancouver is meant to be experienced outdoors. Explore the nearly 1,000-acre Stanley Park and stroll along its seawall for picture-perfect views of the

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Stanley Park Stanley Park free

U.S. News Insider Tip: If you're walking along the north side of the Stanley Park Seawall, keep your eyes peeled for the Girl in a Wetsuit sculpture that sits on a rock in the water. It's a Vancouver landmark. –  Ann Henson, Assistant Managing Editor

This nearly 1,000-acre park on the tip of Vancouver's "thumb" (just north of the West End) is home to some of the city's favorite, most-visited attractions. In fact, you could easily spend more than a day here and still not see everything this urban oasis has to offer. If you want to experience the park the way the locals do, walk, cycle or jog around the nearly 20-mile seawall that hugs Vancouver's waterfront. The path starts at the Vancouver Convention Centre and ends at Spanish Banks Beach Park . If you're not up for the walk, you'll find several bike rental companies near the park. With your bike, you'll be able to explore the more than 17 miles of forest trails that are much less crowded than the rest of the park. Travelers recommend biking the South Creek Trail, which leads to the lily pad-covered Beaver Lake. If you're not up for all that exercise, you can ride in a horse-drawn carriage or hop on the train for a 15-minute ride through the forest. Recent visitors said the park offers a great escape from the city and has one of the prettiest seawall walks around.

Granville Island Granville Island free

U.S. News Insider Tip: The food market is the main draw here, but you'll also want to peruse the unique shops in the Net Loft building. – Ann Henson, Assistant Managing Editor

This former industrial site is now one of Vancouver's most beloved neighborhoods. Practically its own mini-city, Granville Island's former factories now house trendy restaurants, galleries and theaters. But the main draw here is the Granville Island Public Market, often described as one of the best markets in North America. Among the seemingly endless aisles of fresh produce and local crafts, you'll find a variety of food stalls selling everything from baked goods to authentic Mexican cuisine. If the weather is nice, try and grab a seat outside by the water. You can watch ferry boats putter back and forth in English Bay while enjoying the performances of the buskers who regularly play for market crowds. After filling up on market eats, head to the perpetually busy Kids Market. This playtopia sells toys and crafts and features an indoor play area. If you don't have kids in tow, visit Canada's first microbrewery –  Granville Island Brewing . You can enjoy a selection of ales and India pale ales.

Queen Elizabeth Park Queen Elizabeth Park free

Queen Elizabeth Park is one of Vancouver's most popular outdoor spaces (second only to  Stanley Park ). Spread out across nearly 130 acres, the park features a rose garden, a meticulously manicured quarry garden, and an arboretum with about 1,500 native and exotic trees. When you're not admiring the park's flora, head inside the Bloedel Conservatory to visit the fauna. The conservatory features more than 100 free-flying exotic birds, not to mention 500 tropical plants and three different climate zones. Step outside the conservatory and you'll spot the Dancing Waters fountain display, along with several sculptures scattered throughout the plaza. Since the park sits at the highest point in Vancouver, it offers spectacular views of the city skyline, mountains and shoreline from the fountain plaza.

If you don't have time to devote an entire day to touring Stanley Park, Queen Elizabeth Park, located about 2 miles due south of downtown Vancouver, is a great alternative. Many visitors say it has the best views of the city you can find and the grounds are well maintained.

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Museum of Anthropology at UBC Museum of Anthropology at UBC

The MOA is currently closed for seismic upgrades until June 2024. You can learn more about this closure as well as upcoming events on the museum's website .

While the city itself hasn't celebrated a large amount of birthdays, the area on which Vancouver was founded possesses a rich, cultural past. The Museum of Anthropology (part of the University of British Columbia) houses one of the world's most impressive collections of art and artifacts from the Northwest Coast First Nations. In the Great Hall alone, you'll spot ornately decorated canoes, ritual masks, totem poles and other Native American relics. Other areas of the museum display 15th-century European pottery, priceless jewelry and local art. You can embark on your own self-guided walk-through of the museum, but recent travelers highly suggest following one of the docents. Tours are offered an average of three times per day; consult the MOA website for exact times.

Mount Pleasant Mount Pleasant free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Join in-the-know locals for an intimate night out inside a dimly lit speakeasy. Find classic and elevated cocktails at Key Party , hidden behind an old-school accountant's office on Main Street. – Vivian Chung

Bordered to the north by False Creek, the south by East 16th, the west by Cambie and the east by Clark Drive, Mount Pleasant is a hipster enclave found in East Vancouver. Though a largely residential area boasting modern apartment towers and heritage homes that are more than a hundred years old, the neighborhood's main thoroughfare of Main Street is jampacked with local roasters, vintage boutiques and a bevy of Michelin-starred and Michelin-recommended restaurants that range from SUYO 's modern Peruvian to Anh and Chi 's authentic Vietnamese fare. Plus, the area hosts a collection of well-loved craft breweries and leafy neighborhood parks hidden between the side streets.

Kitsilano Beach Kitsilano Beach free

When the weather's nice, follow Vancouverites down to the shores of English Bay to Kitsilano "Kits" Beach. Often compared to L.A. 's  Venice Beach , this shoreline along the northern edge of Kitsilano is the city's most popular swim spot, especially for the city's 20-something crowd. Kits is an accessible beach with a beach mat on-site and free water wheelchairs are available to borrow (on a first-come, first-served basis and you must make reservations in advance). When you're not relaxing on the sand or admiring the skyline views, you'll find areas for in-line skating and volleyball, along with tennis courts and a playground. Visitors do warn that the beach can get quite busy in summer, but it is clean and always has "good vibes." If you're in the mood for swim but the bay water is just a little too chilly for your liking, try the area's heated, saltwater Kitsilano Pool (open May to mid-September). Fido will be happy here, too, as there's dog parks and off-leash areas. You can also visit the nearby Vancouver Maritime Museum, which offers an educational respite from the summer sun. When you need to grab a refreshment, you'll find several concession stands as well as a more formal dining room at The Boathouse Restaurant.

You don't have to pay to access the beach, but you will have to pay for parking. Parking from April 1 to Sept. 30 will cost you CA$4 (about $3) hourly and CA$17 (about $13) daily. From Oct. 1 to March 31 hourly parking rates decrease to CA$3 (about $2.25); daily rates decrease to CA$9 (about $7). If you're traveling via public transportation, the No. 2 bus offers service between downtown and Kits Beach. Entrance to the pool will also cost you. Single-day admission for adults costs about CA$7 (about $5.25); youths ages 13 to 18 years old get in for around CA$5 (about $3.75) and children ages 5 to 12 enter for about CA$3 (about $2.25). Check out the Vancouver Board of Parks and Recreation  website  for more information on Kits Beach.

Gastown Gastown free

U.S. News Insider Tip : Book a stay at the Skwachàys Lodge on West Pender, Canada's first Indigenous arts hotel. Aside from its 18 guestrooms and art gallery, the hotel also provides on-site housing and studio space for a vibrant community of 24 Indigenous artists. – Vivian Chung

Paved with cobblestone and studded with antique lampposts, the streets of Vancouver's oldest neighbourhood and original downtown core oozes historic charm. A humble tavern founded by English riverboat captain and saloon keeper John "Gassy Jack" Deighton in 1867 laid the foundation for Gastown, from which the community expanded. Now boasting a thriving fashion scene and trendy wine bars alongside kitschy souvenir shops, Gastown is an eclectic neighbourhood to explore on foot. Stroll along Water Street to the part steam-powered and part electric motor-powered steam clock, which whistles every 15 minutes and its five whistles chime in unison every hour. Along the way, pass by well-preserved Victorian-era buildings and peruse galleries dedicated to Indigenous art.

Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden

U.S. News Insider Tip: Around the corner from the garden in the historic Wing Sang building on East Pender Street is the Chinese Canadian Museum . Complete your afternoon in Chinatown by learning about the efforts of the Chinese-Canadian community that shaped this Vancouver neighborhood. – Vivian Chung

A tranquil oasis nestled at the edge of Chinatown, the Dr. Sun Yat Sen Classical Chinese Garden is the first Ming Dynasty-style garden built outside of China. Guided by the Taoist principles of yin and yang and feng shui, the garden was brought to life over the course of 13 months by 53 master craftsmen from Suzhou, including architects, masons, tilers and painters. Plus, the materials, including stone pebbles, hand-made tiles, Ginkgo wood and limestone rocks, were also sourced from China. A guided tour of the garden reveals not only the legacy of the Chinese philosopher and politician, Dr. Sun Yat Sen, to whom this garden pays homage, but also the fascinating symbolism woven into the design of the garden. The zigzag pattern of the walkways, the deliberate placement of rocks and flora and the green waters of the pond all beckon visitors to dive into Chinese culture and philosophy.

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VanDusen Botanical Garden VanDusen Botanical Garden

Often described by travelers as a hidden gem, the VanDusen Botanical Garden is spread across 55 acres in the center of Vancouver. Recent visitors called the garden very peaceful. The garden features several sections, including a stone garden and a hedge maze – a favorite among past visitors. One popular feature is the Laburnum Walk. The path is made memorable by the yellow, chain-like blooms that hang from the Laburnum branches. Peak bloom for these plants occurs in mid-May, but if you're not in Vancouver during their prime blooming period, check out what will be in season during your visit with this bloom calendar  here .

You can explore all of the garden's meandering paths with a self-guided tour – themed tours are developed by volunteers and can be accessed online . Docent-led tours are subject to volunteer availability from April through early October. Contact the garden ahead of your visit to see if a tour will be available. If all that walking makes you hungry, refuel at the two eateries located on-site, the Shaughnessy Restaurant and the Truffles Cafe.

Yaletown Yaletown free

Vancouver's definitive late night hot spot, Yaletown has steadily increased in popularity since it transformed from a warehouse district to the trendy area it is today. Often compared to  New York City 's SoHo neighborhood, Yaletown features chic boutiques, restaurants and hotels (including one of the city's top properties , OPUS Vancouver). Even if you don't plan to hang your hat at OPUS, you should still plan to check out the hotel's cocktail lounge, The Spritz. Other top nightlife spots include  Yaletown Brewing Co. , Pierre's Lounge and  Bar None .

Recent visitors said there is something for everyone in Yaletown, with a wide range of dining and drinking options in a variety of prices. For a little help navigating the neighborhood, consider signing up for one of the best Vancouver tours .

English Bay English Bay free

Also known as First Beach, English Bay Beach draws visitors and locals alike in droves. It's an accessible beach thanks to Mobi-Mat paths and water wheelchairs (available from May through September). Water fun includes kayaking and slides, while land-based activities include volleyball courts and walking, biking or jogging along the Stanley Park Seawall, which runs alongside the sands. You'll also find the A-maze-ing Laughter sculpture on the beach's northeast side. And when hunger strikes, the Cactus Club Cafe dishes out a variety of meals like poke bowls, sandwiches and burgers with a heaping side of ocean views.

If the beach itself doesn't draw you, perhaps its events will. Vancouver's annual Polar Bear Swim takes place on English Bay each New Year's Day. The event features music and food trucks, as well as the star event: a plunge into the chilly waters of English Bay. If that's too cold, stop by in late July for the Honda Celebration of Light, an annual fireworks festival.

Grouse Mountain Grouse Mountain

Towering over North Vancouver, Grouse Mountain has been a popular outdoor getaway for years, especially since the views from the summit span the entire city on a clear day. Originally used only for skiing, Grouse now offers year-round activities, including the Grouse Grind, a nearly 2-mile trail often referred to by residents as "Mother Nature's Stairmaster" (there are a total of 2,830 stairs along the trail).

During a winter visit to the mountain – a favorite time for locals – you'll have a bevy of activities to occupy your time. Grouse Mountain's slopes boast 33 ski and snowboard runs, four chairlifts and six terrain parks, not to mention four snowshoeing trails. There's also a zip line, a skating pond, sledding, a high-definition cinema, a wildlife refuge and several eateries, including a Starbucks and Fondue Experience at The Observatory, a formal dining room with 360-degree mountaintop views. Many past visitors raved about the excellent (albeit pricey) food at the top.

Capilano Suspension Bridge Capilano Suspension Bridge

U.S. News Insider Tip: Set aside at least two to three hours to experience all of the park's attractions. –  Ann Henson, Assistant Managing Editor

Overcome your vertigo and experience Vancouver the way the birds do. The Capilano Suspension Bridge is the oldest tourist attraction in the city (it dates back to 1889), and the 450-foot-long, 230-foot-high bridge offers spectacular views of the Capilano River below. Visitors call it thrilling, exciting and an overall great experience. The fun doesn't end once you reach the other side of the canyon; more suspension bridges and daredevil activities await at the Treetops Adventure. With this canopy walk – set among the park's 250-year-old Douglas fir trees – you'll have the chance to walk 110 feet above the forest floor, from viewing platform to viewing platform. Continue to tempt fate along the Cliffwalk, a set of cantilevered and suspended walkways that meander along the canyon's edge.

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Spanish Banks Beach Spanish Banks Beach free

Spanish Banks boasts a few features that set it apart from the city's other beloved shorelines. Thanks to its location about 5 miles southwest of downtown Vancouver, Spanish Banks is the least crowded and most quiet. It's also the best place to try your hand at skimboarding – a cross between surfing and skateboarding – due to the low tidal conditions (at low tide the water is more than half a mile off shore). If the ocean water is too chilly, there are plenty of volleyball courts available for pick-up games.

Recent visitors called the beach beautiful and say exploring at low tide can be lots of fun, especially for kids.

Museum of Vancouver Museum of Vancouver

U.S. News Insider Tip: The Museum of Vancouver (MOV) shares the same entrance as the H.R. MacMillan Space Centre, making it easy to check off two popular Vancouver attractions in one visit. – Vivian Chung

As Vancouver's oldest museum and Canada's largest civic museum, there's no better place to dive into the history of the city than at the Museum of Vancouver. Founded in 1894, the institution's more than 70,000 black and white photographs, interactive and audiovisual displays and historic fashion and household items document Vancouver's transformation from a relatively small city into a multicultural and dynamic metropolis with modern infrastructure. The stories and objects of the History Galleries also highlight the population growth, economic transformation and cultural and social changes in Vancouver between 1900 and 1970. Recount the economic hardship faced by Vancouverites during the Great Depression in the 1930s and immerse yourself in the iconic hippie movement of the 1960s, where Kitsilano stood as the epicenter of Canada's flower-power revolution. 

Bill Reid Gallery of Northwest Coast Art Bill Reid Gallery of Northwest Coast Art

Bill Reid was a Haida artist who blended modern aesthetics with Indigenous arts through goldsmithing, jewelry making, writing and more. Throughout his career, he researched Indigenous art (especially Haida art) and it became a large influence in his work. Following Reid's death in 1998, the Bill Reid Gallery of Northwest Coast Art opened in 2008 to honor Reid and the incomparable art created by Northwest Coast peoples.

Today, museumgoers can tour several galleries and a series of rotating exhibits. Themes have included song, beadwork, Indigenous queer identity, watercolor painting and more. Additionally, there are a variety of events, such as artist talks and art workshops, throughout the year.

Steveston Village Steveston Village

U.S. News Insider Tip: Its location at the mouth of the Fraser River makes Steveston the ideal jumping-off point for an up-close look at the region's marine life. Join Vancouver Whale Watch on a tour for the opportunity to spot orcas, humpback whales, dolphins and seals. – Vivian Chung

Seen in popular TV shows like "Supernatural" and "Once Upon a Time" as the fictional town of Storybrooke, Steveston Village in Richmond is a historic neighborhood with a rich fishing heritage. Join the locals at 75-acre waterfront Garry Point Park and soak up uninterrupted views of the South Arm of the Fraser River and the Gulf Islands, stroll along the wooden boardwalks while gorging on frozen yogurt and dive into the area's maritime past with a visit to the more than 4,000-square-foot restored Gulf of Georgia Cannery, which was BC's largest until 1902. As an active fishing port, visitors can shop freshly caught seafood at Fisherman's Wharf, depending on the season, or savor fresh catches at local restaurants, where they're skillfully featured across a range of dishes, like sushi, pizza, pasta and more.

Lynn Canyon Park Lynn Canyon Park free

Sitting less than 10 miles northeast of downtown Vancouver, Lynn Canyon Park offers all the benefits of Capilano Suspension Bridge Park , but without the hordes of tourists, according to recent visitors. The park spans nearly 620 acres and is full of winding trails, a swimming hole, waterfalls and its own suspension bridge.

The suspension bridge, which the park calls its main attraction, sits 164 feet in the air and spans Lynn Canyon. Views from the bridge are breathtaking, but walking the bridge isn't for the faint of heart: it sways as you move and is narrow, which makes it tricky for two-way foot traffic. Afterward, take a hike to Twin Falls or trek the Baden Powell Trail, which challenges hikers of all abilities. Also on-site is the 30-Foot Pool. Weather permitting, you can take a dip to cool off during your time outdoors. But be warned: the water is cold at all times of year. Before your adventure, stop by the Lynn Canyon Ecology Centre to view its nature museum and get information about Lynn Canyon Park. (Suggested donation to visit the center is CA$2 per person, or about $1.50).

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Robson Street Robson Street free

Since the 1940s, Robson Street has been a hub for shops and markets. Though you may not find the classic markets and quintessential candy stores of the mid-20th century, Robson Street is the place to be for shopaholics. Stores range from well-known brands like Steve Madden and Nike to shops selling everything from high-end beauty products to eyewear to fine jewelry. You'll also find the street lined with eateries. Casual bakeries sit next to Korean restaurants. Japanese restaurants are next door to health food establishments, while a few doors down sits a gelato parlor. Needless to say, there's a wide variety to fit all tastes on Robson Street.

Travelers generally enjoy a stroll down the thoroughfare, encouraging others to save time for a meal at one of the restaurants lining the street. Some suggest that if shopping and dining aren't for you, then you may want to skip this street.

Vancouver Aquarium Vancouver Aquarium

Those in the know say the Vancouver Aquarium is definitely worth exploring, whether you're traveling with kids or just looking for a little extra marine knowledge. As the home of more than 50,000 different animals across more than 30 exhibits, this is a great place to become acquainted with local animals as well as exotic creatures. But don't come here expecting SeaWorld: Past visitors say the aquarium's focus is more on interactive exhibits and education and less on choreographed animal performances. Different exhibits mimic various habitats, from the icy tanks of the Canada's Arctic exhibit to the colorful clownfish and intimidating black-tip reef sharks sheltered in the Tropics. Don't miss the Graham Amazon Gallery, a giant atrium where three-toed sloths and caimans take shelter from the hourly simulated rainstorms.

While some recent visitors comment on the steep cost of admission, they also say that if you schedule enough time, it's worth the price. 

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Home » North America » Canada » Vancouver

EPIC 3-DAY VANCOUVER ITINERARY (2024)

Vancouver, British Columbia is one of the most beautiful places to see in Canada! Every type of traveler will find something to love about this beautiful coastal city. With magnificent wildlife to awe-inspiring natural landscapes, lush mountain ranges, urban culture, vibrant art, theatre, and scene – Vancouver has it all!

There is something here for everyone, and your soul will be fed from the experiences on this 3-day Vancouver itinerary! Vancouver is a city that is thriving with many people from diverse ethnic backgrounds. You can truly enjoy a rich culture on your trip to Vancouver!

Enjoy the adventure of a lifetime and make memories that will stay with you forever! There are so many reasons to travel to Vancouver, and with this itinerary in hand, you are sure to see the best this city has to offer. We will share everything you need to know and give you all the best Vancouver landmarks for you to sightsee whilst you indulge in the joys of the city!

A Little Bit About this Vancouver Itinerary

Where to stay in vancouver, vancouver itinerary day 1: stanley park and city center, vancouver itinerary day 2: the edge of the city, vancouver itinerary day 3: some beach and mountains, what to do with more than 3 days in vancouver, best time to visit vancouver, planning a trip to vancouver – what to pack and prepare for.

Finding your way around big cities can be challenging, especially when they are busy. Luckily, Vancouver has plenty of transportation options available! We will share a handful of the best options so that you know how to navigate your way around the city in the most stress-free way with our 3-day Vancouver itinerary.

The most popular option to use is The Sky Train. The vast majority of its track runs along on an elevated track, so you can sometimes score good views around the city this way as well as getting where you want to go quickly!

Buses are everywhere in Vancouver during the day and make for an excellent option for group travelers to get you from A to B on this itinerary! Your driver will know exactly where to take you and can sometimes give you helpful pointers about each neighborhood.

It doesn’t stop there, Vancouver also has SeaBuses! This bus sails the oceans and will connect you from downtown Vancouver to the North Shore.

Walking is also a popular way to get around Vancouver, and with so much to see when you do so, it can be incredibly worthwhile. A lot of Vancouver’s bars and restaurants can be found in single areas, so if you decide to spend some time pub-hopping or enjoying a food tour, the best way to do it is by foot!

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3-Day Vancouver Itinerary Overview

Day 1 in Vancouver: Stanley Park , Vancouver Aquarium , Canada Place , Vancouver Lookout ,  Gastown

Day 2 in Vancouver: Vancouver Art Gallery ,  Pacific Spirit Regional Park , Museum of Anthropology , Granville Island

Day 3 in Vancouver: English Bay ,  Capilano Suspension Bridge , Grouse Mountain , Lions Gate Bridge

More Places to See in Vancouver: Queen Elizabeth Park , VanDusen Botanical Garden, Science World at TELUS World of Science

Part of planning a trip to Vancouver that will blow you away and leave you with memories to last a lifetime is choosing the right neighborhood to stay in! Knowing where to stay in Vancouver will help you have the best time, allowing you to be close to activities within walking distance whilst enjoying our Vancouver itinerary.

Yaletown is a wonderful neighborhood to consider and is the best place to stay in Vancouver during three days or more if you want to be close to the magnificent waterfront. Once this area used to be an exclusively industrial zone, but now it has become one of the hottest areas to stay in Vancouver! Yaletown boasts a bevy of independent boutique shops, modern restaurants, and hip bars.

Gastown is Vancouver’s oldest city, and it is thus incredibly rich with heritage and is made up of charming cobblestone streets. You can see some of the most stunning old-school architecture of Vancouver in Gastown, as well as enjoy the many bars and restaurants. History is brimming in this part of Vancouver, so it is an excellent place to base yourself if you want to immerse yourself in classic charm that has a modern twist. There are a lot of great Vancouver Airbnbs in Gastown too.

Kitsilano is found in the south of downtown Vancouver, and it is a super stylish and lively neighborhood that is especially family-friendly! This neighborhood is famous for coffee culture and poetry readings. The ‘flower children’ call this place their home, and you will meet a lot of free spirits in ‘Kits’ that will inspire you.

Best Hostel in Vancouver – Samesun Vancouver

Found within the city center, Samesun Vancouver is a hostel that provides you everything you need in a cozy and friendly environment!

You will be surrounded by the city’s best pubs, clubs, and restaurants, making it easy for you to walk to places with your travel companions at night.

Samesun Vancouver is one of the most enjoyable hostels in the city and it will add a touch of festivity to your travels!

Best Airbnb in Vancouver – Deluxe Junior One Bedroom with 2 Beds

Located just one block away from the world-famous Robson street there are a lot of various restaurants, stores, groceries are nearby. The condo building has a swimming pool, sauna, exercise gym, and jacuzzi.

Best Budget Hotel in Vancouver – GEC Granville Suites Downtown

This fabulous hotel is great for the price! GEC Granville Suites Downtown provides everything you need to have a fantastic stay.

You will find beautifully decorated rooms, comfortable beds, and an on-site restaurant serving scrumptious meals! The hotel also features a rooftop deck and sauna for those days when you want to relax.

Best Luxury Hotel in Vancouver – Rosewood Hotel Georgia

For 5-star luxury and exceptional facilities, the Rosewood Hotel Georgia is a must! It is found conveniently across the street from Vancouver Art Gallery, this hotel offers an indoor saltwater lap pool for you to keep in shape.

The bathrooms have heated floors, and you will find the rooms to be exquisite!

There is a lot to do in Vancouver . Spend your first day on this Vancouver itinerary admiring the lush beauty of this city’s natural landscapes and diving into the art world. Enjoy the best Vancouver attractions and more during the start of your two days in Vancouver!

10:00 AM – Stanley Park

As the largest and first park ever to exist in Vancouver, Stanley Park is a hub that pumps with life and showcases some of the city’s most incredible history, talent, and beauty.

You can stroll Stanley Park and find an endless amount of new sites and meet some of the friendly locals as you settle in before continuing with the exciting activities lined up on your 3-day Vancouver itinerary.

You will find yourself surrounded in a breathtaking green oasis that is spotted right in the heart of suburbia.

This magnificent urban park is a wonderful place to relax and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of Vancouver.Explore the 400 hectares of this special park and be sure to see the West Coast rainforest. Then climb some of the small mountain trails, view stunning lakes shimmering in the morning sun, and bask in the magic. Whatever you do, Stanley Park provides a massive range of unforgettable experiences that are suited for every age group and every type of traveler.

If you haven’t had breakfast yet, The Teahouse, located in Stanley Park, is a fantastic, relaxed, and stylish place to grab breakfast and enjoy scenic views.

• Cost:  Free to enter. Parking is $3.50/hour.
• How long should I stay here?  1-2 hours walking around.
• Getting there:  Bus #19 stops at several different places in the park.

12:00 PM – Vancouver Aquarium

The Vancouver Aquarium is the largest aquarium in British Columbia and attracts people from all over Canada. The aquarium is not only an outstanding place to view and learn about all types of marine life, but it is also a center for ground-breaking marine research, conservation, and of course, rehabilitation.

You will find a vast number of fantastic displays and meet inspired professionals whose passion is to learn from and protect the lives of sea creatures and their habitats.

Enjoy engaging exhibits and insightful shows that provide a rare chance to get up-close and personal with charming creatures like otters, dolphins, seals, sea lions, and many varieties of mesmerizing fish species.

The aquarium houses an impressive amount of facilities, including a 4D cinema where you can educate yourself of the ocean and the animals that call it their home. This is a must-see during your first day in Vancouver.

• Cost:  Adult=$38/$30/$21 for adults/students/children.
• How long should I stay here?  1-2 hours
• Getting there:  The aquarium is located inside Stanley Park, which you should be in already. Walk, ride, or take public transit there.

2:00 PM – Canada Place

Canada Palace is one of the most beloved and iconic buildings in Vancouver, and it has become a legendary landmark among the sea of skylines and skyscrapers.

The structure itself is made up of white sails, adding a picturesque effect that makes Canada Place stand out from the other buildings along Vancouver’s waterfront.

With an innovative design, you will be automatically attracted to this unique venue. You can view it all the way from the Seawall in Stanley Park or from the North Wall.

You can catch every type of lively event happening at Canada Palace, but it is most famous for hosting the  biggest Canada Day celebrations .

Close to Canada Place, you’ll also find one of the greatest hidden gems in Vancouver:  the Marine Building.  It features some of the most impressive Art Deco art in the world and is considered one of the finest examples of the movement. If you’re a fan of architecture, be sure to make the quick detour here along the way to the waterfront.

For lunch, there are lots of great places to eat around Canada Place and Downtown Vancouver. Drop by Chewies for some local oysters (make sure they’re from around Vancouver Island).

• Cost:  Free.
• How long should I stay here?  1-3 hours depending on how many attractions you visit.
• Getting there:  Walk 30 minutes or 20 minutes by bus (#19).

5:00 PM – Vancouver Lookout

Start winding down your first day in Vancouver by enjoying an unforgettable panoramic view from the Vancouver Lookout!

Watch the sunset over the sweeping vistas, shining over the mountains and glimmering on the ocean waters. Watch as the city starts to come alive. People file out onto the streets after a hard day’s work to meet their friends and family for snacks and drinks.

The Vancouver Lookout tower is a brilliant place to get expansive views over the city and the majestic mountain ranges and the ocean. You can also enjoy a cup of coffee at the Revolving Restaurant.

The most fascinating and high-tech feature of this sightseeing tower is its elegant glass elevator that rides up the side and will take you to the top. Ultimately, this will be a highlight of our 3-day Vancouver itinerary.

• Cost:  $17.50/$12.50/$9.50 for adults/youth/children.
• How long should I stay here?  Around 1 hour or so.
• Getting there:  The Vancouver Lookout is right next to Canada Place and is less than a 10-minute walk.

7:00 PM – Gastown

Gastown is one of the most energetic neighborhoods in Vancouver and it is especially active after dark. This is one of the most popular places to eat and drink in the city and it seems that every other shop is either a restaurant or a bar.

Gastown’s reputation as a late-night area is nothing new either – this is used to be Vancouver’s redlight district way back when the city was no more than a logging town. It’s a bit more clean-cut now but still hangs on to a bit of that old grittiness.

The most infamous attraction here these days is the Gastown Steam Clock.

There is a huge variety of places to eat and drink in Gastown. Feeling like Latin-inspired dishes? Go to Cuchillo. Maybe something a bit more canuk? Check out Belgard Kitchen instead. Need a drink afterward? The Diamond serves up some amazing cocktails.

Nearby, you’ll also find the local Chinatown. Vancouver is very famous for its authentic dim sum and one could easily spend an entire evening (or day) in search of the perfect dumpling.

• Cost:  Food and drink are not cheap here…
• How long should I stay here?  All night!
• Getting there:  Gastown is less than 5 minutes walking from the Lookout.

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These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

Get ready to enjoy day two in Vancouver! You will get to take in the most beautiful, intriguing points of interest and all of the facets of this glorious seaport city.

10:00 AM – Vancouver Art Gallery

Vancouver Art Gallery is world-renowned and is arguably the most respected innovative and visual arts museum in North America. The gallery houses revolutionary art and marvelous exhibits that will inspire you and open up your eyes to the fantastic world of Vancouver’s art scene and its truly excellent talent.

The gallery is relatively large (the 5th largest in Canda) and showcases historical art, contemporary art, and international pieces.

There is a special exhibition that places Asian Pacific Region artworks and First Nations artworks firmly into the limelight. You will be blown away by the variety of mediums, textures, use of color, and stories told by these impressive works of both modern and olden day art.

Take this chance to explore everything that art gifts to us: inspiration, emotion, movement, cultural philosophy, design, and architecture.

Once you’ve finished at the museum, be sure to grab a sandwich at Hubbub to-go. You’ll need it for the next activity.

Note : The Museum opens and closes late on Tuesday and Friday (12 pm – 8 pm) but between 5 pm and 8 pm on Tuesday nights,  tickets are free.  Donations are asked for instead.

• Cost:  $24/$20/$18/$6.50 for adults/seniors/students/children.
• How long should I stay here?  At least 2 hours.
• Getting there:  There is a metro stop (City Centre) nearby on Granville Street. Otherwise, several bus lines stop right outside the gallery on Howe Street.

1:00 PM – Pacific Spirit Regional Park

Vancouver has a host of incredible wildlife for all travelers to spot during their Vancouver trip, and one of the best places to bask in the bliss of nature is at the Pacific Spirit Regional Park! One of the most relaxing things you can do is to simply enjoy the magical natural parks, and this is a prime spot to do just that.

Amble through the dense rainforests, find canopies and breathe in the fresh air found in this magical park.

Escaping into the Pacific Regional Park will give you a chance to take a breather from the city and embrace the wonders of Vancouver’s abundant nature.

While walking, you will visit many different ecosystems, from the beach, the forests, wetlands, calm streams, and evergreen meadows. You can spot animals like bald eagles, salamanders, snakes, and squirrels.

There are many hiking trails here, leading you to peak viewpoints, relaxed coves, green oases, lush forests, and thriving natural habitats. We recommend making your slowly northwest towards the University of BS, either via the Salish Trail or the Clevland Trail.

• How long should I stay here?  2-3 hours.
• Getting there:  Pacific Spirit is located pretty far away from Downtown Vancouver and we definitely recommend using a rideshare app like Uber or Lyft for this leg.

3:00 PM – Museum of Anthropology

Dive into the world of First Nations artwork and other cultural community pieces following your hike in Pacific Spirit Park. The Museum of Anthropology is an establishment run by people passionate to shed light and awareness of diverse cultures across the globe and celebrating the differences between nations.

They run a lot of programs with indigenous, local, and global communities to keep the fire of history and culture alive in today’s modern world.

The museum has a reputation worldwide for being a hub that protects cultural knowledge from all nations and all eras. You are going to be in for a whirlwind of new information and eye-opening knowledge when you visit this museum.

The museum houses a plethora of artwork and artifacts from old tribes and indigenous people, and it strives to protect the right for people to, “maintain, control, protect and develop their cultural heritage, traditional knowledge, and traditional cultural expression.”

Enjoy art from all around the world, and treat yourself to a walkabout. You will find yourself captivated by the murals, exhibits, and artworks all housed within the Museum of Anthropology!

Insider Tip:  On Thursday evenings from 5 pm to 9 pm, tickets are only $10!

• Cost:  $18/$16 for adults/seniors & students.
• How long should I stay here?  1-2 hours.
• Getting there:  The museum is about 5 or so km by foot from the center of Pacific Spirit Park.

6:00 PM – Granville Island

Let’s wrap our second day in Vancouver by visiting one of the coolest parts of the city: Granville Island. Known mostly as a shopper’s paradise, Granville is also a great place to grab a bite to eat or beer.

Shoppers can spend hours milling in and out of the endless variety of trendy shops, finding everything from clothing to gifts and kids’ toys.

Foodies will stumble across incredible cafes to have a cup of coffee or some homemade baked goods. If fine dining is more your scene, you can also find that here.

The art scene in Granville is also  huge . You will run into design studios everywhere and have many chances to take a peek at some truly mesmerizing art done by the gifted artists in Vancouver. See things made from every type of material, from ceramic bowls and vases to stylish furniture and handcrafted jewelry.

This is a place for you to have fun and experience the joys of Vancouver’s atmosphere and all of the wonderful artistic creations made from the people who call ‘The City of Glass’ their home.

• Cost:  A bit cheaper than Gastown but still slightly expensive.
• How long should I stay here?  The rest of the day!
• Getting there:  Bus #084 leaves from atop University Hill on Chancellor Blvd and takes around 40 minutes to reach Granville. Otherwise, take another rideshare.

Today’s our third and last day in Vancouver so we’re making a good one! We’re heading to the mountains but not before we get some beach time first. 🙂

9:00 AM – English Bay Beach

English Bay is one of the most-loved of them all refers to both the bay itself as well as a beach near Stanley Park.  English Bay Beach is also known as ‘First Beach.’

There’s a lot do here in the morning: you can go for a run or bike ride along the popular Seawell, go kayaking in the bay, or rent a chair and umbrella, then catch some early morning rays!

Only in Vancouver can you find a beach like English Bay in the middle of an urban landscape.

If you’re feeling brave, you can also use this opportunity to take a dip in the frigid Pacific waters.

You will find all sorts of fun things to do in English Bay and may even meet a four-legged friend along the way! English Bay has a designated ‘dog-off-leash’ areas where pooches can run freely, meeting people, and playing together. You will also find areas where people are playing volleyball, soccer, or cricket on the shores.

• How long should I stay here?  Around 2 hours.
• Getting there:  Bus #023 stops right in front of the beach.

12:00 PM – Capilano Suspension Bridge

This is probably the most touristy place featured on our 3-day Vancouver itinerary. That being said, it still shouldn’t be missed.

The Capilano Suspension Bridge is a well-built and simple bridge that crosses over the scenic Capilano River. You can walk along the relatively narrow bridge and take in breathtaking views of the forest landscape surrounding you and the flowing river underneath you.

The bridge is 140 meters long and quite a unique attraction in Vancouver. The entrance fee is somewhat pricey, but all proceeds go towards maintenance and other worthy causes that keep the surroundings pristine.

If you’re looking for something to eat after the bridge, DON’T go to the places near the bridge itself. Instead, head north and have food at Sushi Mori or look around Edgemont Village.

• Cost:  $43 per person.
• Getting there:  Head to West Georgia Street near Marina Square and take bus #246. The ride takes 30 minutes and will drop you off very close to the bridge.

2:00 PM – Grouse Mountain

What better way to wrap up our trip in Vancouver than by seeing it from afar? Grouse Mountain offers one of the most expansive views of the city and features a couple of interesting attractions as well. It is the perfect place to visit on a Vancouver day trip .

There are two ways to arrive at the top of Grouse Mountain:

The first via a somewhat expensive chair lift that operates in both summer and winter.

This is obviously the easiest and most convenient way to get the up mountain.

The other, more hardcore way to get up the mountain is via grueling hike called the “ Grouse Grind .” This hike is not at all easy and finishing it is like a right of passage for visiting Vancouver. You’ve been warned.

Once you arrive at the top of Grouse Mountain, bask in the views. If you’d like a bit more information about the mountains, you can find everything you need to know at the  Blue Grouse Sustainability  program. Grouse Mountain is a magnificent place to enjoy the beauty of the city and treat yourself to a fun adventure at the same time.

• Cost:  Lift tickets are $59/$52/$32 for adults/seniors/children.
• How long should I stay here?  A half-day.
• Getting there:  Bus #232 or #236 goes direct from Capilano to the foot of Grouse Mountain.

7:00 PM – Lions Gate Bridge

On the way back to Vancouver, we’re going to stop by one of its most iconic locations: Lion’s Gate Bridge. Known officially as the First Narrows Bridge, this bridge holds a lot of historical significance , and that is something that makes it a major spot to visit whilst touring Vancouver. Fun fact: a pair of sculpted lions once used to stand proudly at both sides on the entrance of the bridge!

This spot may not be the kind of place you could laze out and enjoy an afternoon, but it is a spectacular place to go see during sunset. You can’t walk along the bridge, but you can relax in the areas nearby and observe it from the safety of the bush or the sandy ocean shore. As the sun goes down, lights on the bridge come to life, and it becomes quite a spectacular sight to behold.

The scenery around the bridge is jaw-dropping and is a great way to end your 3 days in Vancouver.

Once you’ve gotten your fill, head back to the city to grab your last dinner, and pack your bags. Unfortunately, our time is up 🙁

• How long should I stay here?  Around 1 hour.
• Getting there:  It’s easiest to see the bridge from Stanley Park but there is no direct bus from Grouse Mountain. You’ll need to use a rideshare if you want to stop here.

Need a place quick? Here’s the best neighbourhood in Vancouver:

Gastown is one of the oldest and most charming neighbourhoods in Vancouver. Located at the northeast end of Downtown Vancouver, this area is made up of cobblestone streets and stunning heritage architecture.

• Visit the Steam Clock and stand at the spot where the city began.
• Good drinks and a great atmosphere await you at the Lamplighter Public House, a classic and modern pub at the heart of the city.
• Visit the Alibi Room for a great lineup of cocktails, beer, drinks and food.

Queen Elizabeth Park

Situated on Little Mountain, Queen Elizabeth Park is a major attraction in Vancouver and has a storied past that makes it a significant part of Vancouver’s heritage.

The rocks of this park were the ones that were quarried to make the very first roadways in the city! It has scarred the garden, but it has still got so much magic to offer and remains one of the most stunning parks in Vancouver.

You will find immaculate gardens, with neatly kept shrubs and trees all growing in a way that flows and creates a tranquil ambiance. The waters of the ponds are so still you can see your reflection smiling back at you! There are also plenty of birds dancing in the trees, singing tunes, and adding to the picturesque setting of Queen Elizabeth Park!

The park is one of the best places to go for a calming walk to take in the beauty of nature or sit back with a partner for a picnic. If you’re up for it, you can also join the teams that play sports in the park, such as tennis, basketball, pitch & putt, roller hockey, disc golf, and lawn bowling!

• Cost:  Free to enter.
• How long should I stay here?  2-3 hours.
• Getting there:  The Canada Line Metro stops very near to the park on Oakridge and 41st.

VanDusen Botanical Garden

There are botanical gardens, and then there is the VanDusen Botanical Garden. This garden is expertly landscaped, with features like ponds, waterfalls, vibrant flower beds, streams, labyrinths, mazes, and hiking trails. There are all kinds of flower varieties within the garden and every species is flourishing!

The garden is operated by a joint team, the City of Vancouver Board of Parks and Recreation and the Vancouver Botanical Gardens Association.

These two organizers have been working hand-in-hand over 40 years to build and preserve the beauty of the VanDusen Botanical Garden.

With so much to see within these magical grounds, you can spend a lot of time becoming entranced by the fauna and flora, the bright colors, and tranquil atmosphere. Be sure to take a leisurely walkabout so that you can take it all in!

Insider Tip:  The most famous labyrinth in the botanical garden is found beneath the Palace of Knossos on the island of Crete, and it is known to be the place where the hero Theseus killed the Minotaur in a well-known myth.

• Cost:  $8-$11 depending on the season.
• Getting there:  Bus #17 stops in front of the gardens.

Science World at TELUS World of Science

TELUS World of Science building is one of the most unique and recognizable structures in the city. Inside, you’ll find an even more interesting assortment of exhibits though. This is a great place for all age groups and will fascinate everyone, even if they don’t already think science is sweet.

At Science World, you will see a huge variety of exhibits that delve into the discoveries made across different topics throughout the years.

There are also permanent interactive displays that will allow you to take your learning to a new level.

This place is overflowing with inspiring things to do and see. You will also find amazing displays of artistic developments that incorporate scientific knowledge, making it another fantastic place to gaze into the mind of Vancouver’s visionaries!

• Cost:  Adult’s tickets are $27.15, children (3-12) get in for free.
• How long should I stay here?  3-4 hours.

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

When planning your vacation in Vancouver, it is essential to know the weather patterns of the city and understand what you can expect during the months that you want to visit. We will go over everything you need to know about the seasons and give a month-by-month breakdown in this Vancouver itinerary, so you can relax and leave the planning to us!

British Columbia and all of the PNW for that matter has a reputation for being dark and rainy all year long. Whilst this is certainly true in the winter and part of the spring, Vancouver is not always dreary. In fact, summers in Vancouver are almost always sunny!

As such, the best time of the year to visit is between April to October, when you are guaranteed more sunny days than any other time of the year. Vancouver’s peak seasons typically occur during late spring, between April and May, as well as during the fall between mid-September and October.

Summers in Vancouver are mild, with moderately hot days but no scorchers! As for winter, those can get icy and quite rainy, but it also adds a sense of nostalgia to the landscapes of British Columbia. This makes it a great time to go see the mountains and old-school architecture.

Vancouver’s off-season includes November through mid-December, with January being the quietest, most tourist-free month of the year. February to mid-March is also considered Vancouver’s off-season.

Deciding when to visit Vancouver is about choosing the most convenient time for you, whilst factoring in what to expect from the crowds and the weather.

Here is a table showing you exactly what is in store from month-to-month in Vancouver!

As with most big cities, there is a lot of crime, and it is an unavoidable reality in every part of the world. However, all things considered, Vancouver is a safe place to visit, and you won’t have any hassles if you keep general safety tips in mind during your travels.

Firstly, it’s important to know that Downtown Vancouver is one of the city’s biggest places for crime. This does not mean you should avoid this part of the city entirely, because it is also a magnificent place for sightseeing, but be vigilant when you are in this neck of the woods.

Try not to appear too ‘touristy’ and make sure of that when you travel Downtown. Know exactly where you are going so that you can avoid slipping down the wrong alley or getting stuck in a dodgy part of the city.

When you go out, be sure to have a group of trusted friends and companions with you, and be sure to keep an eye out for each other.

You also don’t want to drive drunk, so for women and men, take a taxi if you feel like having a night out on the town and indulging in the many bars of Vancouver.

Petty crimes can happen if you leave your stuff unattended, so make sure you have your belongings close at hand, or at least in viewing range of wherever it is that you are. When walking in the busy streets, keep your bag close, or have it in the middle of your chest and be sure it is zipped.

If you follow all of these simple precautions, you minimize any chance of a mishap, and you can enjoy your time in Vancouver knowing you’re likely to stay safe!

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for Vancouver

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Final Thoughts

Even if you spent an entire one week in Vancouver exploring one neighborhood, you would still be finding new things to do and see! This aspect of the coastal city’s atmosphere will have you coming back for more every time with another one of your new Vancouver vacation ideas.

We know that each of our daily Vancouver itineraries will have you enjoying the best of this city, allowing you to delight in the many sensations it has to offer. If you are trying to have a longer holiday in Vancouver, you can simply pace yourself and take your time at each of these stops. Consider heading to Vancouver Island on a day trip; this one of the most beautiful places in all British Columbia and you may find yourself wanting to stay a couple of extra days here.

Book your favorite hotel or hostel and pack your bags. Don’t forget to bring your best travel camera !

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Sheridan Cahoon

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22 Top Tourist Attractions & Places to Visit in Vancouver, BC

Written by Chloë Ernst and Michael Law Updated Mar 21, 2024 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Author Michael Law has lived in Vancouver and returns frequently, usually adding on some time to ski at Whistler.

With its mountain backdrop and urban beaches, Vancouver has the rightly earned reputation of being one of the most beautiful cities in the world .

Downtown Vancouver is picturesquely situated on a peninsula in the Strait of Georgia, with the often snow-covered ranges of the Coast Mountains rising in behind. The setting is one of the city's main attractions.

With its extensive parks and agreeable climate keeping temperatures mild throughout the year, outdoor activities are high on the list of things to do in Vancouver. But it also boasts a busy cultural life, fantastic shopping, and incredible dining. This scenic city was showcased to the world when it hosted the 2010 Winter Olympics, in conjunction with nearby Whistler .

Find your way around the city with our list of attractions and things to do in Vancouver.

1. Go for a Walk in Stanley Park

2. do some shopping on granville island, 3. see the brockton point totem poles, 4. ski grouse mountain, 5. visit the vancouver aquarium, 6. visit the museum of anthropology, 7. relax on kitsilano beach, 8. explore gastown, 9. tour canada place, 10. soak up some culture in chinatown, 11. go for a stroll in english bay, 12. walk across the capilano suspension bridge, 13. take a ride on the aquabus, 14. shop robson street, 15. learn about history at the museum of vancouver, 16. queen elizabeth park, 17. take the kids to science world, 18. enjoy the sights of richmond, 19. go whale watching, 20. vandusen botanical garden, 21. vancouver art gallery, 22. day trip to whistler or the gulf islands, where to stay in vancouver for sightseeing, tips and tours: how to make the most of your visit to vancouver, frequently asked questions, when is the best time to visit vancouver.

Stanley Park is a lush peninsula of huge trees adjacent to Downtown Vancouver. If you are looking to get outside and enjoy some nature, this is the best place to visit in Vancouver. A paved seawall path encircles the green space and is a wonderful place to explore on foot or by bicycle.

Inland, the park offers many things to do, and you can spend a full day exploring attractions like the totem poles at Brockton Point or the Vancouver Aquarium . Spectacular views are a standard throughout the park either back towards the city or out to the ocean.

Come spring, the park's gardens and shrubs burst into a rainbow of beautiful colors, led by the cherry trees and closely followed by the rhododendrons.

In the summer, an outdoor pool operates right at the edge of the ocean. This 80-meter pool is heated and is a popular spot for families because of its gently sloped entry.

Once mainly industrial, Granville Island is now a thriving center of activity with a relaxed and distinctive atmosphere. Artists and retailers have moved into converted warehouses alongside houseboats, theaters, galleries, and restaurants.

The Granville Island Public Market is one of the most popular attractions selling fruit and vegetables, seafood, and a great variety of other specialties as well as ready-to-eat items. Not truly an island, the arts hub is linked to residential areas by one road and footbridges to the south, and to the Downtown peninsula (across False Creek) by ferry.

Location: South of and underneath the Granville Street Bridge

The Brockton Point Totem Poles are a must-see when visiting Stanley Park. These intricately carved poles are one of the top attractions in British Columbia . The totem poles were first placed in the park at a different location in the 1920s, and over the years, the collection grew and was eventually moved to Brockton Point.

Today you'll find nine totem poles carved from red cedar in addition to three gateway portals. The colorful totem poles line a wide walkway and are set back against tall evergreen trees. Nearby is a visitor center that provides additional insight into First Nations history and the totem poles themselves.

In both winter and summer, Grouse Mountain offers an unmatched panorama in clear weather. That's especially so in the evenings when the city lights are on.

A gondola operates daily running from street level to the summit, where dining, activities, and wildlife await mountaintop explorers year-round.

Skiing: When the snow flies, Grouse Mountain is a winter wonderland offering outdoor skating, snowshoeing, and some of the best skiing and snowboarding near Vancouver . The ski runs are not particularly difficult, and Grouse Mountain is a fun family outing. It's also a great place to learn how to ski.

Hiking: Come summer, Grouse Mountain is a hiker's paradise with trails, including the famed Grouse Grind - affectionately called Mother Nature's StairMaster.

Day Trip Tour: If you are staying downtown, consider this tour: North Shore Day Trip from Vancouver: Capilano Suspension Bridge & Grouse Mountain . On this 6.5-hour tour, you'll hit two of the major attractions on the North Shore.

Address: 6400 Nancy Greene Way, North Vancouver, British Columbia

A trip with the family to Stanley Park for most folks would be incomplete without visiting the Vancouver Aquarium . This wonderful facility teaches young and old about the wonders of the ocean and how we can protect it.

Experiences: Fun and entertaining experiences include a cold-water touch tank; a wildlife rescue area complete with a Burmese tortoise; Penguin Cove, full of cute creatures; and the non-stop action of the sea otters in their habitat. One thing not to miss is the 4D Theatre Experience with special seats, effects, and a large screen that make you feel you are part of what you are seeing.

Exhibits in the aquarium educate visitors on the unique habitats of the Amazon, the tropics, and BC's Wild Coast.

In the past, the aquarium used to have whale performances and belugas; however, the animals have since died and have not been replaced, or they have been relocated.

Address: 845 Avison Way, Vancouver, British Columbia

Part of the University of British Columbia, the Museum of Anthropology deals with cultures from around the world, but places particular emphasis on British Columbia First Nations.

Exhibits display native art, including large totem poles in the Great Hall. Other presentations explore ethnographic and archaeological objects representing Asia, the South Pacific, the Americas, Africa, and Europe.

The interesting building was originally part of a WWII-era fort, and local architect Arthur Erickson transformed the spaces into this world-class museum.

Other attractions on the university campus include the clothing-optional shoreline of Wreck Beach, the natural-history-focused Beaty Biodiversity Museum, and the rambling UBC Botanical Garden with its many interesting plantings and delicate Nitobe Japanese Garden.

Address: 6393 NW Marine Drive, Vancouver, British Columbia

The sandy shoreline of Kitsilano Beach defines the laid-back, fun-loving Vancouver lifestyle. It's a place locals hang out with friends or take a dip in the outdoor heated seawater swimming pool . The wide beach here is popular with sun bathers in the summer.

Views from Kitsilano over the city center are wonderful. In addition to the beach and oceanfront, the area has a number of cafés and walking trails, and a vibrant shopping strip lies a few blocks south on West Fourth Avenue .

A short stroll to the east of Kitsilano is Vanier Park, where you'll find wide-open spaces and the Vancouver Maritime Museum . Catch a small Aquabus to downtown Vancouver or Granville Island from the docks located here.

Address: 2305 Cornwall Ave, Vancouver, British Columbia

• Read More: Best Beaches in Vancouver, BC

The oldest part of the city , Gastown is an area of restaurants, galleries, and shops set in carefully restored Victorian buildings. Heritage structures, cobblestone streets, and iron lampposts give the district its distinctive atmosphere. Gastown is a short walk from Canada Place.

Gastown came into existence in 1867 when a man called John Deighton arrived on the scene. Deighton had a habit of launching into lengthy stories and soon acquired the nickname "Gassy Jack." As a result, the vicinity became known as "Gassy's Town" or "Gastown."

A statue of the proprietor now watches over the neighborhood in Maple Tree Square. Tourists stop for photos with Gassy Jack, and also love to visit the nearby Steam Clock, which puffs steam-powered chimes every 15 minutes.

If you arrive in Vancouver on a cruise ship, Canada Place is where your trip begins. The unusual roof design creates the impression of a huge sailing vessel. The architecturally remarkable structure is part cruise ship terminal, part convention center and hotel, and part hub for sightseeing bus tours.

At the end of the pier are panoramic views and the Flyover Canada attraction - a flight simulator that assaults all your senses while giving you a Canadian geography lesson. Also nearby, Waterfront Station is a major transit hub with ferries departing for the public market at Lonsdale Quay in North Vancouver .

If you exit the building and turn right, a scenic waterfront walk towards Stanley Park begins. Along the way, you'll see the seaplanes take off and land, and massive seagoing container ships heading out to sea.

Address: 999 Canada Place, Vancouver

Beyond the ornate Millennium Gate marking its entrance, Vancouver's exotic and interesting Chinatown features modern buildings amid many older ones dating from Victorian times.

Signs at shops and restaurants are often written in Chinese characters, particularly along East Pender, Keefer, and Main streets – the main shopping areas. Local attractions include the pretty walled Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden , modeled after a traditional garden from the Ming Dynasty.

Also worth seeing is the Sam Kee Building , which at barely two meters wide, claims to be the narrowest office building in the world. Every year, Chinese New Year is celebrated with an exuberant parade.

Oceanfront English Bay centers on one of the city's loveliest and busiest beaches . Part of the West End neighborhood, English Bay offers shopping and high-end restaurants, but is also a popular outdoor area where people come to walk, bike, rollerblade, or hang out with the public art installations.

English Bay is not far from Stanley Park , and a waterfront trail joins the two. The beach is strewn with large tree trunks, which make a perfect back rest for sunbathers.

One of the biggest events of the summer is Celebration of Light. Generally occurring around the last week of July, spectacular fireworks are set to music. Another popular event is the New Year's Day Polar Bear Swim, when hardy swimmers take a dip in the chilly Pacific waters.

Vancouver's first tourist attraction, the Capilano Suspension Bridge opened in 1889 and has been thrilling visitors with its swaying bridge over a plummeting canyon ever since. The footbridge spans a 70-meter deep river canyon leading to an activity park filled with forest trails and a treetop walk through old-growth giants. There's also a collection of totem poles and a transparent suspended platform known as the Cliffwalk.

If you are staying in Vancouver and looking for an easy way to visit the bridge and see some city highlights, the Vancouver City Tour including Capilano Suspension Bridge is a convenient option. This trip includes a half-day tour of Vancouver, a visit to the Capilano Suspension Bridge, and a cliff walk adventure.

Also along Capilano Road, Capilano Salmon Hatchery is worth a visit (in fall especially) to spot flashing salmon as they try to swim upstream. The fish ladder - a series of staggered pools - allows fish to bypass Cleveland Dam. Check out the underwater windows for a first-hand look at their efforts.

Address: 3735 Capilano Road, North Vancouver, British Columbia

One of the best views of Vancouver is fortunately one of the cheapest. Jump on the small Aquabus and bob your way across and around False Creek while soaking up the incredible views. It's easy to get on board – eight pickup points are strategically placed around the downtown waterfront.

You'll never have to wait long, one of the colorfully painted 13 Aquabuses will be by to pick you up every 15 minutes. The boats are pet friendly, bike friendly, and can accommodate wheelchairs. The Aquabus is particularly handy if you are walking around downtown and would like to grab lunch or do a bit of shopping at Granville Island.

Robson Street is best known for shopping. But international brand names aside, it's also the setting for many inventive Vancouver happenings.

The main hub of activity on Robson Street is centered between Burrard and Jarvis Streets . Over these three blocks, you'll find over 150 stores and restaurants. Take a stroll up and down the street, and see if you can snag a patio seat to engage in some serious people watching.

Robson Street is central to many of the city's top attractions, so a visit here is easily combined with a stop at the Vancouver Art Gallery or nearby Robson Square.

Location: Robson Street at Hornby Street, Vancouver, British Columbia

In Vanier Park near Burrard Bridge, the Museum of Vancouver is a large institution devoted to all things Vancouver. It covers the city history from the first Coast Salish communities to Japantown, Kitsilano hippie days, and urban development.

In the same building is the HR MacMillan Space Centre with its planetarium, an observatory, and the waterfront Maritime Museum , where splendid views capture English Bay with the North Shore mountains beyond.

If you are staying downtown, catch the Aquabus across False Creek to Vanier Park and get off at the Maritime Museum Ferry dock.

Address: 1100 Chestnut Street, Vancouver, British Columbia

The center of Queen Elizabeth Park, Little Mountain, marks the highest point in Vancouver, and its elevated position affords excellent views of the city center and the mountains to the north.

Things to do in the park include pitch-and-putt golf, tennis, disc golf, and visiting the extensive outdoor arboretum. If the day is grey and cool, escape to the tropical environment of the Bloedel Conservatory .

Queen Elizabeth Park has an excellent restaurant called Seasons in the Park. Walk the park in the mid-morning, then stop in for lunch while you soak up the amazing views of downtown Vancouver.

The sunken Quarry Garden makes a lovely spot to stroll on a warm summer day. For more horticultural explorations, head a couple of blocks west to VanDusen Botanical Garden, where there is always something in bloom amid beds representing various regions and species.

Location: Cambie Street and West 33rd Ave, Vancouver, British Columbia

The futuristic sphere-like building of Science World is home to a child-friendly exploration center that explains phenomena through 12 hands-on exhibits and demonstrations. Themes include water, air, motion, and invention.

Visiting exhibits are often impressive and part of world tours. The building, which is an unmistakable waterfront landmark in Vancouver, was originally built for Expo 86, a World's Fair.

Address: 1455 Quebec Street, Vancouver, British Columbia

South of Vancouver, Richmond is Vancouver's second Chinatown, hence you'll see many shops with Chinese characters on their signs. If you crave authentic Chinese food, you are in the right spot. Hundreds of restaurants line the streets, serving delicious food.

Richmond is also packed with sightseeing attractions, from a renowned Buddhist temple to the picturesque former fishing village of Steveston where you'll find waterfront restaurants and shops in restored old boatsheds. Located in the latter, the Gulf of Georgia Cannery National Historic Site is one of the most historic settings in Richmond, and it relays the history of the West Coast fishing industry.

Once you've had your fill of tourist attractions, head to the malls to find imported Asian goods and much more. In the warmer weather, come down at night, when vibrant night markets take place and are similar in nature to ones you'd find in Hong Kong.

The waters off Vancouver's coastline, known as the Salish Sea, are an excellent place to see whales. Humpback and gray whales, along with smaller minke and orcas swim in these waters.

The main whale watching season runs from March through October. Options for seeing the whales range from aerial viewing from a float plane to Zodiac boats, or for those looking for a more stable platform, larger tour boats. If you are lucky, you might even spot a few whales from the BC ferries that transit between Vancouver and Victoria .

Strict regulations are in place that limit how close the boats can get to the whales. A popular option leaves from in front of the Westin Hotel in downtown Vancouver. The Half-Day Whale Watching Adventure from Vancouver takes you out on the Salish Sea Dream, an 80-foot double decker catamaran. Along the way, interesting commentary is provided. You'll have a good chance of sighting a whale from one of the multiple viewing decks.

The British Columbia climate is ideal for producing spectacular displays of flowers, and there's no better place to see them in their full glory than the VanDusen Botanical Garden . The garden is handily located a short distance from downtown on Oak Street near the aforementioned Queen Elizabeth Park.

The garden is a pleasant place to wander, and something is always in bloom no matter when you visit. To maximize your enjoyment, be sure to check out the bloom guide that the gardens put out on their website prior to each season.

Highlights of any visit include the cherry trees bursting into color in the spring followed by the rhododendrons and laburnums, then the roses and hydrangeas putting on their show in the summer. Come fall, the Japanese maples, ginkgo trees, and rudbeckia step up and do their part in impressing guests.

The Vancouver Art Gallery is the city's premier arts institution, located in Downtown Vancouver. The gallery presents innovative, world-class exhibitions year-round featuring the works of local and international artists on a rotating basis. The gallery's collection includes paintings by renowned BC artist Emily Carr (1871-1945), as well as contemporary works by Asia-Pacific and First Nations artists.

The façade of the building faces Robson Square , an interesting public space designed by Arthur Erickson, which includes a winter ice-skating rink and law courts.

The steps with their carved lions out front of the gallery are a popular meeting spot and demonstration site for whatever causes are in the news. The Vancouver Art Gallery is located on Hornby Street, not far from Robson Street, and a visit to both is easily accomplished.

One of the most popular day trips is a drive along the Sea-to-Sky Highway to Whistler . If you want to do some sightseeing along the way, stop in at Squamish and Shannon Falls. Then, spend the afternoon wandering around Whistler Village, where you'll find shops, restaurants, and beautiful scenery around every corner. If you are a skier and you're visiting in winter, plan on a day of skiing here.

Other popular day trips from Vancouver include visiting some of the Gulf Islands, like Salt Spring Island , or taking a ferry all the way to Victoria on Vancouver Island. Ferries run regularly and the trip to Victoria is only about 1.5 hours.

Read More: From Vancouver to Victoria: Best Ways to Get There

To experience the best of Vancouver, it's a good idea to stay right downtown. Vancouver has a vibrant and active city center, where people live, work, and play. Many of the top attractions, including Stanley Park, English Bay, Robson Street, Gastown, and Granville Island, are located in the city center, along with great shopping and dining. Below are some highly-rated hotels in convenient locations:

Luxury Hotels:

• With a superb location, looking out over Vancouver Harbour, Stanley Park, and the North Shore Mountains, the Fairmont Pacific Rim is one of the city's finest hotels.
• Just off Robson Street near the famous Vancouver Public Library, the boutique L'Hermitage Hotel is a great luxury option for families or groups, with regular rooms and multi-room suites with kitchens.
• Near Robson Square, the Rosewood Hotel Georgia , first opened in 1927, is one of Vancouver's classic luxury hotels in the heart of downtown.

Mid-Range Hotels :

• True mid-range hotels are in scarce supply in the city center. At the top-end of mid-range, the centrally located Executive Hotel Le Soleil is a lovely boutique hotel with elegant suites.
• Near False Creek and Granville Island, the Residence Inn by Marriott Vancouver Downtown is an extended-stay hotel with studios, as well as suites with full kitchens.
• At the east end of downtown, close to Roger's Center, Science World, and Gastown, is the well-appointed Georgian Court Hotel, BW Premier Collection.

Budget Hotels :

• Located near Roger's Center, the non-profit YWCA Hotel Vancouver welcomes all travelers to their clean, modern, and comfortable rooms. All room revenue, less operating expenses, is put back towards social programs for women, children, and families.
• Near Gastown, is the Victorian Hotel , in a late 1800s Victorian-style building, with comfortable rooms and modern décor.
• In a very central location and within walking distance to the Vancouver Convention Center and the Olympic Cauldron is the basic but comfortable Days Inn by Wyndam Vancouver Downtown .
• Sightseeing : Vancouver is a big city, and it can be somewhat confusing with the water and bridges. A great way to see the attractions and get acquainted with the layout of the city is on a Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour . The bus tour stops at 24 locations. Tickets are valid for either one or two days.
• Day Trips : Vancouver Island is one of Canada's most beautiful destinations, and it's less than two hours away by ferry from Vancouver. One of the easiest ways to see a bit of the island, including the beautiful provincial capital of Victoria, is on a Vancouver to Victoria and Butchart Gardens Tour . This tour takes you by bus and scenic ferry ride through the Gulf Islands to Victoria, where you'll have time to explore the city and see the famous Butchart Gardens, located just outside the city. This tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, round-trip ferry, bus, and admission to the gardens.

Tourists tend to flock to Vancouver in the summer when the days are long and the sun is shining. The shoulder seasons of spring and fall are less busy, but the weather is a little less predictable. Even the winter — known for being dark and damp — has something to offer.

Spring: Vancouver experiences spring much earlier than the rest of Canada, and it is arguably when the city is at its most beautiful . It doesn't take long for the daffodils to poke out of the earth and for the infamous cherry blossoms to make an appearance, covering the city in delicate pink petals.

Of course, it takes rain to make flowers grow — and early spring can be a rainy time in Vancouver. Luckily, the temperatures this time of year are relatively warm, meaning it is still very pleasant to take in the sights of the city — though you may prefer to do so from under an umbrella.

In late spring, the rainy days become fewer, and the days get longer, but the crowds tend to stay away until the end of June. The late May to mid-June period offers the optimal conditions for a perfect Vancouver visit: great weather, but not too busy.

Summer: If you'd rather skip out on experiencing the notorious rain, then the summer months are your best bet for a visit to Vancouver. While there are no guarantees, the odds are good that you'll be treated to plenty of clear, sunny days in July and August , which are traditionally the warmest and driest months in Vancouver.

In the summer, the entire city tends to head outdoors. Whether exploring Stanley Park by bike, hiking the surrounding mountains, or just lounging at one of Vancouver's many beaches , there's simply no better way to experience summer in Vancouver than by being outside.

The fact that summer in Vancouver is spectacular is, unfortunately, not a very well-kept secret. Expect to pay a premium to enjoy summer in Vancouver, and always aim to show up early if you want to beat the crowds.

Fall: Fall in Vancouver can be somewhat hit or miss. If you happen to catch it on a "hit" day, then you're in for a real treat: crisp air, leaves changing colors, and clear views of the North Shore mountains as they get their first dusting of snow up top.

Hiking this time of year can be phenomenal. The bugs are a non-issue, the weather stays comfortable throughout the entire day, and the crowds of summer are long gone. Be mindful of hiking at elevation, as trails on the mountains can get covered in snow in the fall months. Always keep your eye on the time: as the daylight hours shrink, you are left with less time for those longer hikes.

Winter: While winter in the rest of Canada conjures up images of ice, snow, and bitter cold, that couldn't be further from winter in Vancouver. You'll want to dress properly if you visit Vancouver in the winter, but you're more likely to need to protect yourself from the rain than from the cold. The average temperature in Vancouver in January is 7 degrees Celsius (about 45 degrees Fahrenheit) — but the average rainfall for the month is about 140 millimeters (5.5 inches)!

While the rest of Canada is hibernating from the cold, people in Vancouver are able to get out and about thanks to its mild winters . The holiday season in Vancouver is, in a word, magical , with the Festival of Lights in VanDusen Gardens, the German-inspired Vancouver Christmas Market, and the spectacular Bright Nights at Vancouver's famous Stanley Park.

Though you're likely to experience at least some rain in the winter months, you also might get lucky with a few bluebird days. It isn't unusual to see people out on the golf course, even in the middle of winter!

If you're caught in a rainy spell, simply hop on a shuttle and head up to Whistler . Just two hours north of Vancouver, this world-renowned ski resort is best enjoyed in the winter months. If it's raining in Vancouver, chances are good that Whistler is getting covered in snow.

More on Canada

7 Days in Vancouver Itinerary: What to Do in a Week

As a local Vancouverite, I’m super excited to share with you this 7 day Vancouver itinerary that covers some of the best things to see and do in my beautiful city.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this list of what to do in Vancouver in 7 days should provide you with a perfect mix of adventure, relaxation, and cultural experiences.

Let’s explore the best of Vancouver in seven days!

What to Do in Vancouver for a Week: 7 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Stanley Park & Gourmet Food

• Start the day with a visit to Stanley Park , a 1,000-acre public park with scenic trails, beaches, and wildlife.
• Take a walk along the Vancouver Seawall , a scenic 22 km paved path that offers stunning views of the city skyline and mountains.
• Visit the Vancouver Aquarium , one of Canada’s largest aquariums with over 50,000 animals including beluga whales, sea otters, and dolphins.
• Finish your day with a meal in Yaletown : many of Vancouver’s best restaurants are here including Tasty Indian Bistro , Cioppino’s and the Blue Water Cafe .

Related : Best Stanley Park tours

Related : Best Things to Do in Vancouver

Day 2: Discover Granville Island

• Head to Granville Island , a bustling marketplace and artisan stronghold with hundreds vendors selling fresh produce, seafood, and artisanal goods.
• Make sure you grab snacks at Lee’s Donuts and some candied salmon from Longliner Seafoods.
• Consider taking a Granville Island Food Tour to lock in all the local snacks and learn Vancouver
• Go for some of the best shopping in Vancouver at Granville Island’s huge list of artisan shops: Make , Granville Island Hat Shop , and the Wickannanish Gallery are a good start.
• Grab some drinks at Granville Island Brewing : Vancouver’s first craft beer creator

Related : Vancouver’s best food tours

Day 3: Experience Vancouver’s Outdoors

• Visit Capilano Suspension Bridge Park , a popular tourist attraction (I call it an outdoor amusement park) with a 450-foot-long suspension bridge, treetop walk, and cliff walk attractions.
• Head up to Grouse Mountain : Vancouver’s outdoor playground is home to skiing in winter and all sorts of great summer activities to keep you bust
• Looking for an alternative? Go on one of the best Vancouver whale watching tours to see orcas, humpback whales, bald eagles, and more.
• Finish the day off in North Vancouver in the Lonsdale Quay area: tons of shopping and dining options await you at this unique, seaside area that’s a bit off the beaten path.

Related : Best Walking Tours in Vancouver

Related: Vancouver’s best sightseeing tours

Day 4: Visit Vancouver’s Diverse Neighborhoods

• Start the day with a coffee on Commercial Drive : this vibrant neighborhood known as Vancouver’s Little Italy is known for its mix of cafes, restaurants, and thrift shops.
• Head to Main Street between 26th and 16th: this trendy neighborhood is known for boutique/second hand/vintage stores is a great place to find unique treasures.
• End the day with a visit to Gastown , Vancouver’s oldest neighborhood with a rich history and charming cobblestone streets.
• The Lost Souls of Gastown Tour is a great way to learn about Vancouver’s sketchy history as a vagrant logging town.

Related : Best Areas to Stay in Vancouver

Day 5: Experience Vancouver’s Art, History, & Culture

• Visit the Museum of Anthropology , a museum dedicated to the culture and history of the First Nations people of British Columbia.
• Not wanting to leave downtown? The Bill Reid Gallery is a great alternative.
• Explore the Vancouver Art Gallery , a public art museum that showcases works by local and international artists.
• Sick and tired of museums? Check out the Vancouver Lookout around sunset for the best views of the city.

Related : Vancouver’s Best Museums

Day 6: Relax and Rejuvenate

• Visit the Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden , a serene oasis in the heart of Vancouver’s Chinatown.
• In Vancouver in summer ? Take a dip in the warm waters of Canada’s largest swimming pool at Kitsilano Beach, one of Vancouver’s best beaches with stunning city views.
• Head to Queen Elizabeth Park (public park with rose garden, pitch and putt golf course, and amazing views) or Vandusen Gardens (the city’s botanical gardens).
• Indulge in a spa treatment at one of Vancouver’s many luxury spas, such as the Spa at the Wedgewood Hotel or the Willow Stream Spa at the Fairmont Pacific Rim.

Day 7: Explore Beyond Vancouver

• Head to the Sea to Sky Gondola attraction near Squamish BC : this Swiss/style gondola takes you up into old growth forest and unlocks British Columbia nature like little else.
• Visit the Britannia Mine Museum , a former copper mine turned museum that showcases the history of the mining industry in British Columbia.
• Go from Vancouver to Victoria : the capital city of British Columbia is a fantastic place to explore a historic downtown, beautiful gardens, and quaint shops.
• Take a trip from Vancouver to Whistler : one of North America’s premier ski resorts is just 2 hours from the city and its village is home to amazing dining options.
• Check off some off the beaten path things to do in Vancouver .

Feel like it’s too much? Check out my Vancouver 3 day itinerary for a shortened version or Vancouver in 5 days .

Related : Best Day Trips from Vancouver

7 Days in Vancouver Itinerary FAQ

What to do for a week in vancouver.

If you’re visiting Vancouver for a week you should see major attractions like the Capilano Suspension Bridge and Grouse Mountain, explore exciting neighbourhoods like Gastown, Commercial Drive and Granville Island, and lock in outdoor activities like the city’s beaches & Queen Elizabeth Park.

How much spending money for a week in Vancouver?

Priceoftravel.com’s Vancouver backpacker rating is $107.27 USD (or $144.11 CAD). This basic Vancouver budget means that each day you can get the following:

• A decent hostel bed (shared dorm)
• 3 meals from cheap take away places
• A few rides on Vancouver public transit
• One paid attraction like the Vancouver Art Gallery or Capilano Suspension Bridge.
• Three beers

Of course, if you’re going to be staying at Vancouver’s best hotels (not to mention eating at the city’s best restaurants) you’ll be looking at closer to $250.00 a day.

Spending money for a week in Vancouver thus starts at about $1000 and could go all the way up to about $1800 and beyond.

Related : best cheap things to do in Vancouver

Can you spend a week in Vancouver?

Yes, it is absolutely possible to spend a week in Vancouver but to do so you’ll need to include all sorts of outdoor excursions and generally spread out the attractions to just one or two a day. if you’re looking to just see the major sights though without living the city and nature, a four day Vancouver itinerary should be enough.

Is a week in Vancouver too long?

Honestly, if you’re using Vancouver as part of a greater trip around the west coast of North America, then three or four days should be enough to check off the major sights. If you’re coming here to really get your hand on the pulse though, a seven day visit to Vancouver is the perfect amount to master the city.

Still Need Help With Your 7 Day Vancouver Itinerary?

I hope this 7 day Vancouver itinerary has given you a taste of what Vancouver has to offer.

From its stunning natural beauty to its vibrant neighborhoods and rich culture, there’s truly something for everyone here.

That said, if there’s something missing please don’t hesitate to write me in the comments below!

Enjoy your week in Vancouver.

Be aware : some of the links provided above are affiliate links. This means that, at no extra cost to you, I may earn a commission if you decide to make a purchase. The revenue helps maintain our site as a community-supported and ad-free platform. More info: Vancouver Planner affiliate disclaimer .

I've lived in 5 countries and created content for travel websites like eDreams and Amex Essentials, but here I finally get to work my passion project - my hometown, Vancouver!

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3 Days in Vancouver: Plan the Perfect 3 Day Itinerary

Vancouver in April: Top Events & Things to Do in 2024

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12 Vancouver Travel Tips to Know Before Visiting

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Visiting Vancouver for the first time? Follow these insider travel tips to help you plan your Vancouver itinerary, know where to stay in the city, where to find the best eats, and experience the best things to do in Vancouver.

My parents grew up in Vancouver and I’ve been visiting there every couple of years over the past 30+ years to visit my relatives and enjoy the city.

It’s one of my favorite cities in the world because you can be in an urban environment one minute, then just a few minutes later you can be exploring the wilderness.

It’s not a cheap city to visit, but after visiting many times over the years, I’ve learned how to discover the best of what Vancouver has to offer without breaking the bank.

Follow these Vancouver travel tips to help you plan your trip, save money, and make the most of your visit.

Table of Contents

What do I need to know before traveling to Vancouver?

Best time to go : The best time to visit Vancouver is between April and October. This is when there is less chance of rain and the weather is warm.

Best area to stay : Downtown , West End , Gastown , Yaletown , or Coal Harbour & Waterfront .

Best way to get around : The best way to get around Vancouver is to ride the SkyTrain or bus. While the city’s public transportation is not perfect, it’s a great way to get around to all the popular neighborhoods and attractions.

Top 5 things to do in Vancouver : Stanley Park , Granville Island , Vancouver Aquarium , Museum of Anthropology , and Capilano Suspension Bridge .

What’s Vancouver known for? Vancouver is known for is scenic views of the mountains and ocean, mild climate, and friendly people. It also has the largest Chinatown in Canada and tons of outdoor activities for nature enthusiasts.

Top 10 things to do in Vancouver

• Stanley Park
• Granville Island
• Vancouver Aquarium
• Museum of Anthropology
• Capilano Suspension Bridge
• Grouse Mountain
• Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Garden
• Vancouver Whale Watching
• Sea-to-Sky Gondola
• VanDusen Botanical Garden

I like to book my attraction tickets and tours through GetYourGuide . Sometimes they offer discounts to save money on sightseeing.

But most importantly, they offer FREE cancellation. If your plans change, you can cancel up to 24 hours before your activity starts for a full refund. This can give you peace of mind when traveling.

Which part of Vancouver is best to stay?

After visiting Vancouver over a dozen times, these are the best 5 neighborhoods to stay in for tourists:

• Downtown – This is the best part of the city to stay in if you’re visiting Vancouver for the first time. It’ll provide the perfect base to get around the city and do some sightseeing.
• West End – This is a popular neighorhood near Stanley Park and English Bay.
• Gastown – This is Vancouver’s oldest neighborhoods. You’ll love the cobblestone streets, brick buildings, and vintage charm.
• Yaletown – This is trendy neighborhood is perfect if you want to check out chic cafes, interesting shop, and stay in upscale accommodation.
• Coal Harbour & Waterfront – This is one of the quietest areas of downtown Vancouver, especially at night. It’s close to Vancouver’s cruise ship terminal, so it can be a convenient place to stay if you’re exploring the city before or after a cruise.

Besides using Booking.com to find affordable hotels, I’ve also had good luck using  Hotwire  to score 4 or 5-Star hotels for cheap.

Best hotels in Vancouver for every budget

If you’re traveling on a budget, these are the best  affordable hotels  in Vancouver:

• Blue Horizon Hotel – Downtown on Robson Street which is a popular shopping district.
• Residence Inn by Marriott Vancouver Downtown
• Times Square Suites Hotel – In the West End near Stanley Park and English Bay.

If you have some more wiggle room in your budget, below are some of the best  mid- range hotels in Vancouver:

• Granville Island Hotel
• Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton Vancouver Downtown
• Holiday Inn Vancouver Downtown

If you want to splurge on your accommodations, below are some popular  luxury hotels  in Vancouver:

• Fairmont Pacific Rim – Close to Canada Place cruise ship terminal.
• L’Hermitage Hotel – Located in the heart of Vancouver’s downtown shopping district.
• Loden Vancouver – Located in Coal Harbour.

Where should I avoid staying in Vancouver?

Vancouver is a very safe city to visit, but you should avoid staying in the Downtown East Side (DTES).

Avoid walking through Hastings Street between Abbott and Main as this area can be a dangerous place for pedestrians. Here you’ll see the homeless, mentally ill, and drug addicted population of Vancouver.

Is it safe to stay in downtown Vancouver?

Yes, Vancouver is one of the safest large cities in Canada.

Stick to the popular tourist areas which include Gastown, Yaletown, Davie Village, Stanley Park, Kitsilano, West End, Mount Pleasant, Chinatown, and Coal Harbor.

Avoid going to the Downtown East Side (DTES) where the homeless, mentally ill, and drug addicted hang out.

Getting around Vancouver

Vancouver’s downtown is geographically the smallest of Canada’s five largest urban regions. For example, downtown Toronto is 16.6 sq km whereas downtown Vancouver is about 5.7 sq km.

This means the downtown area is very walkable and it’s easy to get around on foot. It will take around 35 minutes to walk from Gastown to the beginning of the Vancouver Seawall at Stanley Park.

Should you rent a car for your Vancouver trip?

If you’re planning on spending most of your time in or near downtown Vancouver, then there’s really no reason to rent a car. You can easily walk, ride a bike, or hop on Vancouver’s public transit.  

If you’re planning on visiting attractions outside of the downtown area or taking daytrips to explore other Vancouver neighborhoods and nearby cities, then I highly recommend renting a car.

While Vancouver offers good public transportation, it can take twice as long to reach some areas of the city than it would be if you were driving.

How to use Vancouver’s public transit:

TransLink is Metro Vancouver’s regional transport authority, and its public transit system is made up of buses, the SkyTrain, and the SeaBus.

There are 3 fare zones across Metro Vancouver and the number of SkyTrain or SeaBus boundaries you cross during your trip will determine your fare.

All bus and HandyDART trips are a 1-Zone fare, regardless of zones crossed, time of day, or day of the week.

A single fare is valid for 90 minutes on bus, SkyTrain, SeaBus, and HandyDART.

Kids under 12 years of age can ride TransLink services free of charge, which can make it more affordable for families traveling around Metro Vancouver.

Paying your fare on the bus and HandyDART – You can use a Compass Card, Compass Ticket, contactless credit card, or pay cash (no change will be given).

Paying your fare on SkyTrain, SeaBus, and West Coast Express – You can use a Compass Card, Compass Ticket, or contactless credit card.

You must tap your card at the fare gates as you enter and exit a station to validate your fare.

Make sure to tap out after you complete your trip so the system will calculate the fare zones you’ve travelled and charges you the correct fare.

What’s a Compass Card? A Compass Card is a reloadable fare card that you can use to pay your fare when taking public transit around Metro Vancouver.

The Compass Card can be loaded with Store Value or with prepaid passes (such as a Day or Monthly Pass).

If you’re planning to ride public transportation a lot during your trip, then I highly recommend getting a Compass Card to save time and money.

Other ways to get around Vancouver:

Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour – This is a great way to see the sights of Vancouver at your own pace with a 24 or 48-hour pass. You’ll discover neighborhoods such as Gastown, Yaletown, and Chinatown.

Bike – Vancouver has lots of dedicated bike lines throughout the city. You can choose to rent a bike or go on a bike tour of Vancouver.

Walk – Make sure to pack your comfortable walking shoes. This is the best way to get around downtown Vancouver.

Taxi – Taxis can get expensive, but they are convient if you’re traveling with multiple people. Otherwise, I recommend just riding the SkyTrain.

Below are some useful things to know before traveling to Vancouver.

1. It rains a lot in Vancouver

Yes, it rains a lot in Vancouver, but never too hard that it makes it difficult to enjoy the outdoors.

You may notice that on rainy days in Vancouver, you won’t see many people using umbrellas. Most of the locals are used to the rain and prefer to just wear rain jackets and waterproof shoes when walking outside.

We even went hiking in Lynn Canyon during the rain, which gave the park a rainforest ambiance.

If you are worried about the rain though, consider visiting Vancouver in July and August, which are the driest months of the year .

And if it does rain during your trip, below are some of the best rainy day activities to do in Vancouver:

• Visit the Museum of Anthropology
• Check out a craft brewery in East Vancouver or North Vancouver
• Head to Granville Island
• Visit the Vancouver Aquarium
• Check out Capilano Suspension Bridge Park – This is a great spot to visit on a rainy day because it usually keeps the crowds away. You might even be able to take a photo with no one in it!
• Check out the cafes or bars on Commercial Drive
• Eat authentic Chinese food in Richmond – Chinatown is great, but the best Chinese food is in Richmond.
• Tour the Fraser Valley wineries
• Visit the Vancouver Art Gallery
• Tour a museum
• Check out a local food tour

2. Vancouver is a tiny city

Vancouver is the third largest city in Canada, based on population (Toronto is #1 and Montreal is #2). However, many people who visit Vancouver are surprised how tiny the city actually is.

For example, you can walk from Gastown (Central Vancouver) to English Bay (the West End of Vancouver) in under 45 minutes.

And for attractions outside of the downtown core, you can take the Metro Vancouver bus, SkyTrain, or SeaBus.

3. There is free WiFi available in downtown Vancouver

There’s no need to pay for WiFi at your hotel because residents and visitors to Vancouver can enjoy free public WiFi access on their smartphone, tablet or laptop at a variety of locations.

There are 590+ free public WiFi locations in Vancouver. Just look for the network name (#VanWiFi, COV-Public, or VPL) from your device’s WiFi settings menu to connect.

4. Splurge on at least one Vancouver tourist attraction

In 2020, Insider ranked Vancouver as the second most expensive city in the world to live (Hong Kong is #1).

It’s also one of the most livable cities in the world and a top tourist destination in Canada. All the best cities are expensive, right?

While Vancouver has several paid attractions that are worth the money, if you’re traveling on a budget, I recommend picking just one or two attractions to splurge on.

If you’re like most people, this means going on a whale watching tour . It’s an incredible experience to see whales in their natural environment.

You can get the chance to spot orcas, humpback, minke, gray whales, porpoises, and seals on this popular whale watching tour.

Then you can fill the rest of your itinerary with free things to do in Vancouver. Below are some other great attractions you may want to consider checking out:

• The Vancouver Art Gallery
• Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden

5. Take advantage of free things to do in Vancouver

A trip to Vancouver doesn’t have to break the bank. Below are some of my favorite free things to do in the city:

Visit Granville Island – Explore the public market and shops. Here you’ll find delicious food and unique stores.

Check out Stanley Park – Get here early to walk along the Seawall and visit the Totem Poles.

Hike the Grouse Grind – If you really want to feel like a local, this is one of the most popular things to do. Remember to wear comfortable shoes!

Window shop – The best shopping districts in Vancouver include Robson Street, Yaletown, and Commercial Drive. If it’s raining, head indoors to Pacific Centre or Metrotown mall.

Check out Lonsdale Quay – This is another great public market to explore and enjoy a beautiful view of downtown Vancouver.

Hear the Gastown Steam Clock whistle – While Gastown was around since the 1870s, the Steam Clocks was built in 1977 to help bring tourists to the area. It whistles every 15 minutes.

Take a stroll in Queen Elizabeth Park – This is one of the best things to do on a sunny afternoon. You can marvel at the panoramic views of Vancouver.  

Lynn Canyon – The Capilano Suspension bridge is worth every penny, but if you’re looking for a free option, check out the Lynn Canyon Suspension bridge. It’s not as big as the Capilano suspension bridge, but it’s a favorite among locals.

To compare, Lynn Canyon Suspension bridge is 48 meters and Capilano Suspension Bridge is 140 meters!

6. Take a daytrip from Vancouver

Many people who visit Vancouver seem to think that it’s easy to take a daytrip to Vancouver Island . While it is possible to do a daytrip to Vancouver Island, you’ll feel very rushed trying to see everything that Victoria, BC has to offer in just a few hours day. 

My dad used to the live in Victoria for a few years, so I’ve gotten used to getting up early to take the first ferry over to the mainland (from Vancouver Island) to visit my relatives in Vancouver for the day. But let me tell you, it makes for an extremely LONG day.

I highly recommend spending at least two nights in Victoria to give yourself enough time to truly enjoy the sights and everything that Victoria has to offer. You’ll definitely want to check out Butchart Gardens .

If you’re driving, allow yourself at least 3.5 hours each way, including the 90-minute BC Ferry crossing between the mainland and Vancouver Island.

If you’re not driving, allow yourself at least 4.5 hours each way, assuming you’ll be taking public transportation from downtown Vancouver to the Tsawwassen Ferry Terminal. For more information, check out my weekend in Victoria, BC guide .

Below are some more popular daytrip ideas from Vancouver:

• Squamish – Don’t miss the Sea-to-Sky Gondola.
• Steveston Village – This is a quaint fishing village that’s full of history and charm.

7. Vancouver is an outdoorsy city

Vancouver is often described as a place where urban life and the great outdoors intersect.

There’s a good chance you’ll see people wearing hiking shoes or outdoorsy attire. In fact, Lululemon the popular athletic apparel company was started in Vancouver.

The region offers some of the best hiking, skiing, mountain biking, and other outdoor activities in the world.

Here you’ll find mountains, beaches, plenty of nature, and top-rated parks. It’s one of the best cities in Canada for outdoor enthusiasts.

Below are some of the best parks and nature tours to check out in Vancouver:

• Pacific Spirit Regional Park
• Everett Crowley Park
• Renfrew Ravine Park
• Capilano Regional Park
• Lighthouse Park
• Lynn Canyon Park

8. Take a food tour

Vancouver is a foodie city and has some of the best seafood and ethnic food in the world.

If you have time, consider taking one of these popular food tours in Vancouver. This can be a great way to learn about the history of the area and enjoy some local food and drinks.

• Vancouver 2.5-hour sunset dinner buffet cruise ***Most Popular***
• Gastown walking food tour
• Vancouver Guided Food & City Tour
• Granville Island 2-hour market tour

It’s also said to be the most Asian city outside of Asia. So whether you’re craving Chinese, Japanese, Vietnamese, or Korean food, you’ll find some of the best restaurants here.

Vancouver is also known for their craft beers with over 50 breweries in the city and surrounding areas.

If this is your first time visiting Canada (or British Columbia), then I recommend trying poutine . This is a classic Canadian dish which is fries topped with warm gravy and cheese curds. You usually eat it with a fork.

The best places to get poutine in Vancouver are Mean Poutine, Belgian Fries, Wallflower, La Belle Patate, and Fritz European Fry House.

White Spot is also a popular restaruant chain in British Columbia. They are famous for their hamburgers served with their Triple ‘O’ sauce . I always get this when I’m in Vancouver.

When choosing where you want to stay in the city, it’s also important to consider what you want to eat. Below are some of Vancouver’s best foodie neighborhoods:

• Chinatown – Excellent Chinese food and classic bakeries.
• Gastown – Modern cuisine and fusion foods with great nightlife.
• Granville Island – Great public market where you can find everything you need to have a picnic.
• The West End – Great for ramen and Korean food.
• Kitsilano – Offers contemporary cuisine.
• Richmond – Considered to have the best Chinese food outside of China.

9. Make time to visit Chinatown

Vancouver’s Chinatown is the third-largest Chinatown after New York and San Francisco. You can easily spend half a day here exploring the different streets and sampling all the delicious food.

Best things to do in Chinatown:

• Dr Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden
• Jimi Hendrix Shrine
• Vancouver Police Museum
• Check out the Millennium Gate as you enter Chinatown

Best places to eat in Chinatown:

• Goldstone Bakery & Restaurant – Great for Hong-Kong style diner food.
• DD Mau Chinatown – Great place for tasty Vietnamese eats.
• Kokomo – Delicious plant-based eatery in Chinatown
• Bao Bei Chinese Brasserie – Chinese sharing plates and upscale cocktails.
• Phnom Penh – Cambodian and Vietnamese eats.
• Chinatown BBQ – A great place to get the best bang for your buck.

10. Check out Commercial Drive

Located in East Vancouver and also known as “The Drive”, this is one of the most culturally diverse shopping, dining, and nightlife districts you’ll find in Vancouver. It’s also home to the city’s Little Italy, which represents more than 60 years of Italian heritage.

Best cafes on Commercial Drive:

• Uprising Breads Bakery – Just a block away from Commercial Drive, this is one of my favorite bakeries in the area.
• Joe’s Café Bar
• Café Calabria
• Moja Coffee
• Turk’s Coffee Bar

Best restaurants on Commercial Drive:

• Havana – Inspired by the colors and culture of Old Havana, Cuba. They have great margaritas.
• Lombardo’s Pizzeria & Ristorante
• Sopra Sotto Pizzeria
• Lunch Lady – One of the best places for Vietnamese noodle soup.
• La Mezcaleria – Great for elevated Mexican fare.
• Fets Whiskey Kitchen – Whiskey bar serving up Southern favorites like fried chicken.
• Kishimoto Japanese Restaurant
• The Cannibal Café – Punk-rock themed burger joint.
• SULA Indian Restaurant – Offering chicken korma and other popular Indian fare.
• Tangent Café – Malaysian fusion dishes.

11. Check out the food markets in Vancouver

If taking a food tour is not on your Vancouver bucket list, another good way to experience the city’s food and culture is to explore one of its food markets. Below are the most popular markets to visit.

Lonsdale Quay Market

Located in North Vancouver, this iconic market is home to 60+ locally-owned businesses. You’ll find fresh produce and artisan products here.

Grab something to eat and enjoy a beautiful view of Vancouver’s waterfront. Then if you have time, make sure to check out the Capilano Suspension Bridge Park and Grouse Mountain .

Granville Island Market

This Vancouver’s most popular public market. Paid parking is available, but it fills up quickly so make sure to arrive early or take public transit to get here. You could easily spend half a day here exploring the market and local shops on the island.

Best things to eat at Granville Island Market :

• Petit Ami – A local coffee chain.
• Lee’s Donuts – You’ll definitely want to grab a donut to go with your cup of coffee.
• The Stock Market – Great for warm soups on a cold day.
• Terra Breads – Offering creative bread selections and loaves.
• A La Mode – Offering sweet and savory pies.
• Tony’s Fish & Oyster Café – Great spot for fish and chips.

Richmond Night Market

This is the largest night market in North America. With over 70 food and 100 retail stalls, you can enjoy some of the best Asian food in the country. It’s open from the end of April to October.

12. Recreational marijuana is legal in Vancouver

Adults 19+ can smoke or vape cannabis in public spaces where tobacco smoking is allowed. You can purchase cannabis and cannabis accessories from licensed private retailers in the city.

What to pack for your Vancouver trip

Waterproof jacket – It rains approximately 192 days throughout the year in Vancouver. Even if you’re traveling during the summer months, it’s still a good idea to bring a waterproof jacket just in case the weather changes.

Waterproof shoes – If it does rain during your trip, it’s no fun to walk around in soaking wet shoes. I always make sure to bring a pair of waterproof shoes when traveling to Vancouver just in case.

Comfortable shoes / Hiking boots – Whether you’re walking downtown or through Stanley Park, it’s important to wear comfortable shoes. If you plan on doing any hiking, then hiking boots are a must!

Travel umbrella – No matter where I’m going, I always like to bring a travel umbrella with me. You never know when it’ll rain in Vancouver.

Vancouver travel guidebook – A smartphone is great for looking up restaurant reviews, but I like using travel guidebooks to discover less-touristed attractions and insider tips. Plus there’s no charging required.  

Camera – I like to travel with my Sony mirrorless camera. While my smartphone can take decent photos, there’s no comparison when it comes to photos taken with my Sony camera.

Small backpack – I always travel with a small backpack. It’s perfect for carrying all my day-to-day travel essentials. Plus you’ll fit in with the Vancouver crowd as most people wear outdoorsy attire.

Bug spray – If you’re planning to go hiking, bug spray is a must.

How to get from Vancouver International Airport to downtown

There are a few different options to get from Vancouver International Airport (YVR) to downtown.

Public Transit

You can take the SkyTrain from YVR to downtown Vancouver and parts of Richmond. The ride from the airport to downtown takes around 26 minutes.

Trains leave from the airport around every seven minutes and there are 16 stops along the line.

If you’re traveling with multiple people, then taxi a taking might be cheaper than riding the SkyTrain. You can use one of the taxi stands located on Level 2 of the airport.

Vancouver Travel Guide FAQs

Is vancouver worth visiting.

Yes, Vancouver is one of the most beautiful cities in the world because it’s surrounded by the ocean and mountains. The people are friendly and it’s a foodie’s paradise.

How many days is enough in Vancouver?

3-4 days is ideal for first-time visitors. This will give you enough time to see the main attractions in Vancouver, explore the different neighborhoods, and experience the city’s nature.

What is the best month to visit Vancouver?

June, July, August are the best months to visit Vancouver. These are also the driest and warmest months of the year. Other good times to visit Vancouver are from March to May and September to November when the climate is mild and hotel rates are more affordable.

Is 3 days enough for Vancouver?

3 days is plenty of time for first-timers to see Vancouver’s most popular attractions and explore the city’s neighborhoods.

Is 5 days enough for Vancouver?

5 days is enough time to explore the main attractions in Vancouver and combine it with a second destination like Vancouver Island or Whistler.  

Is Vancouver expensive to visit?

Vancouver is one of the most expensive cities in Canada and the world. However, with some careful planning, you can visit this amazing city without breaking the bank.

You should plan to spend $154 CAD ($119 USD) per day on your vacation in Vancouver. The average visitor spends around $34 CAD ($27 USD) on meals per day and $13 CAD ($10 USD) on transportation.

Hotel rates per couple are an average of $188 CAD ($146 USD) per night. This means a trip to Vancouver for one week will cost an average of $2,160 CAD ($1,672 USD) for two people. ( Source )

Do you need a car in Vancouver?

If you’re staying in downtown Vancouver and just plan on visiting the main attractions within the city, then there’s no need to rent a car. However, if you plan to explore outside of Vancouver, such as North Vancouver, East Vancouver, or do daytrips, then renting a car is more convenient than taking public transit.

Do they have Uber in Vancouver?

Yes, both Uber and Lyft operate in Vancouver.

Does Vancouver have good public transportation?

Yes. Vancouver’s public transit system is made up of buses, the SkyTrain, and the SeaBus. This will easily take you to most of the main attractions in Vancouver.

About Eden Ashley

Eden has an MBA and a degree in Psychology. As a new mom (and homeowner), she knows the importance of having a budget that works. She's helped thousands of women get good with money using the same strategies she used to save $100,000 by age 25. Click here to learn how to create a better budget!

Home > Canada > Vancouver > How to Get Around Vancouver

Dos and Don'ts for Getting Around Vancouver as a Tourist

The ABCs of Going from Point A to Point B in Vancouver

Cover more ground in less time and at a lower cost with our dos and don'ts for getting around Vancouver.

Learn how best to get around Vancouver then continue on our Vancouver travel blog to figure out where to go, including the best neighborhoods to explore and stay in , inside travel tips , unique restaurants , non-touristy things to do , and true must-dos .

✗  Don't worry about the rain (…too much)

Contrary to its "Raincouver" reputation, Vancouver is one of the driest cities in the country from June through September.

It does rains frequently during all other months, but rarely so hard that you can't walk wherever you're going and enjoy the outdoors. For a few years while growing up in Vancouver, I didn't even own a rain jacket!

✓ Keep in mind that Vancouver is tiny

People who visit Vancouver are always surprised by how compact the city is.

To walk from one extreme corner of downtown to the other only takes forty minutes. And it's mostly flat. So if you're in the middle of downtown nothing is more than an easy twenty-minute walk away.

You definitely shouldn't spend all your time downtown, though, but even then every neighborhood's within biking distance, some are walkable, and they're never more than 40 minutes away by bus.

✗  Don't bother trying to use Uber Do bother!

Finally, in January 2020, seven years after Uber first tried to enter Vancouver but was quickly given the boot, ridesharing is here. Lyft, Uber, and other companies have been the go-ahead to start running so people can finally get around Vancouver like they do pretty much everywhere else in the world.

✗ Don't rent a car

Vancouver is tiny, difficult and expensive to park in, and easy to get around by foot, bike, or public transit, so a rental car is not the best way to explore the city.

Only consider renting if and when you're heading out of the city. For our top-recommended places to go, check out our 11 Essentials for Visiting Vancouver .

✗ Don't be afraid to walk at night

Like any city, Vancouver has its share of opportunistic criminals, so don't be a complete idiot and wave your valuables around while drunkenly stumbling down dark alleys.

But as long as you don't do that, you'll be fine.

Vancouver is super safe night and day, no matter which part of town you go.

✓ Pick a conveniently-located base

The most convenient place to stay for getting around Vancouver is the West End.

It’s a relaxed but densely-populated local area within walking distance of everything downtown and close to the SkyTrain to the airport.

Specifically, look to stay in the square between Davie, Denman, Robson, and Burrard. The Burrard is a good bet for a funky and perfectly-located hotel.

See our guide to Vancouver's best neighborhoods , where we rate each area on criteria like dining, location, and local feel, to pick the perfect base for your needs.

✗  Don't ever get turned around

If you get spun around and forget which way's which, look for the mountains. That way's north.

✓ Beware of Skid Row

The area between Gastown and Chinatown, centered on the intersection of Hastings and Main, is called the Downtown Eastside.

For fellow fans of the TV show The Wire , it's Vancouver’s version of Hamsterdam . It’s where all the city’s—and really much of Canada’s—drug addicts and untreated mentally ill people are concentrated.

If you go, you will see people injecting themselves with drugs in broad daylight and high out of their minds, screaming at everyone and anyone.

✗  Don't avoid Skid Row, though

The area is heavily policed and totally safe.

We actually recommend walking through it once to experience the gritty underbelly of beautiful Vancouver.

Bonus fun fact:

The term skid row, which now refers to an impoverished urban area, originates from Vancouver's Downtown Eastside. In Vancouver's early days, that's where they once skidded, i.e. dragged, logs.

✗  Don't expect to do a day trip to Vancouver Island

Many visitors we've met think Vancouver Island is super close to Vancouver and an easy day trip.

A couple of them pulled off a day trip nonetheless, but that's crazy. If you want to go to Victoria or Vancouver Island, go for a few days. Or fly.

✓ Take the SkyTrain to and from the airport

The SkyTrain, Vancouver's light rail / subway system, directly connects the airport and downtown. Often, it's faster than taxis and it's cheaper for individuals and couples.

For groups of three or more, a taxi costs about the same.

✓ Use public transit

  Many tourists we've hosted during our time as Airbnb hosts, Americans especially, tend to disregard public transit as an option because back home it's dirty, unreliable, and inconvenient.

It's the opposite here in Vancouver.

Everyone rides public transit in Vancouver and you should too.

✓ Know how to pay for public transit before you ride

Vancouver's transit system accepts contactless Visa and Mastercard credit cards and Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Samsung Pay.

If you don't have such "high-tech" payment methods, you'll need to pay exact change ($2.95 for one zone).

Your best bet if you're staying longer or planning to use public transit a lot is to get a Compass Card . For $6 (refundable only at the Stadium-Chinatown station) it gets you about $0.50 off each ride and can be prepaid or linked to your credit card for automatic reloading.

✗  Don't throw out your transit receipt

You can transfer and ride on Vancouver's public transit system as many times as you want during the ninety minutes after you pay.

It's more than ninety minutes, really, because as long as you're on the bus/train/ferry when you're ninety minutes expires, you're fine.

✓ Keep transit zones in mind

If you take the SkyTrain or the SeaBus outside of Vancouver's city limits, you'll need to pay extra for going into different zones. Check this map  to be sure.

Note that all buses are one zone, so you don't have to pay extra for crossing zones when you're taking the bus.

✗  Don't be afraid to ask the bus drivers

Unlike in many other cities, Vancouver's bus drivers are generally friendly and helpful, so don't be scared to ask them for directions or to let you know when it's your stop.

You can even ask them for directions if you're not taking the bus.

✓ DEFINITELY Rent a bike if it's nice out

Vancouver’s so bike-friendly that car-lovers always complain that bike lanes are taking over the city.

You can’t beat ’em, so join ’em.

The cheapest way to do so is to use Vancouver’s shared bike system,  Mobi , which costs about $10 a day.

For bigger bike rides, like our top-recommended route that we share in our post on  7 Cool Things to Do in Vancouver , rent a better bike for $30 to $50 a day.

✓ Put your bike on the bus to really get out there

If you rent a bike (which we highly recommend) don't be scared of putting it onto the racks on the front of busses or taking it on the SkyTrain. This allows you to cover more ground with one-way bike routes.

✓ Lock your bike just about anywhere

There are tons of dedicated bike parking spots along the streets of Vancouver, but if none are nearby don't hesitate to lock your bike to the nearest sign, parking meter, tree, or whatever looks secure and doesn't get in the way of pedestrians and traffic.

✗  Don't ever leave your bike unlocked

Bike theft is a huge problem in Vancouver.

To avoid being a victim, don't ever leave your bike unlocked and out of your sight and don't leave your bike locked overnight on the street unless all the wheels and the seat are locked too.

✓ Find our favorite spots in Vancouver with our Treasure Map

Using Google Maps' way-overlooked Saved Places functionality , we put together a complete list of our forty favorite restaurants, attractions, and more.

In just one click you can save this treasure map to your Google Maps on your phone for quick reference—even if you're offline—when moving around Vancouver.

Getting Around Vancouver Quick F.A.Q

It's not as quick and easy as Uber, which the taxi mafia has successfully kept out of town, but you can use an imitation app called eCab . You can also try your luck at hailing a cab on the street, but we wouldn't recommend it unless you're right downtown by Granville and Georgia streets. Otherwise you might be stuck waiting a long time.

There are two private companies, False Creek Ferries and the Aquabus, that run similar, competing services. They are the most convenient—and quirky—way to get between downtown, Olympic Village, and Granville Island.

Ask us in the comments and we'll gladly help.

Read This Next:

✗  don't miss our other vancouver travel tips.

If you found some of these tips helpful, you'll find a lot more where that came from here:

11 Essentials for Visiting our Hometown: A Vancouver Travel Blog

Where to Stay in Vancouver: Ratings of the Best Neighborhoods

Vancouver Travel Tips: What You Don't Know, but Should, Before You Visit

Disclosure: Whenever possible, we use links that earn us a cut if you pay for stuff we recommend. It costs you nothing, so we'd be crazy not to. Read our affiliate policy .

16 thoughts on “Dos and Don'ts for Getting Around Vancouver as a Tourist”

We wanted to stay in the West End near Stanley Park, but also wanted to visit the Richmond area for the Asian food and tea. We are not planning to rent a car. Google maps seems to estimate close to an hour using public transportation from West End to Richmond. Any recommendations for better/faster way to get from West End to Richmond?

Hey D.M. What makes it take so long is that the West End and the main dining areas of Richmond aren't right on the SkyTrain. If you want to speed up your trip without taking a taxi the whole way, you could a taxi to/from the stations. The SkyTrain ride itself is fast, 20min.

Thanks, Chris!

I am arriving one day earlier than the main group. I will be meeting the group at the airport 9am the next day Any recommended place for me to stay?

Hi Lotus. Hard to say without more info. Generally, I'd suggest sticking close to the SkyTrain—anywhere along the line that interests you and fits your budget—so that you can get there and back quickly and easily.

Our family of 4 are avoid bikers and want to explore the city with our own bikes (not rentals). Is there a good hotel that is bike friendly? Is it generally ok to bring our bikes in the hotel room at night?

Hi Mix. I don't know about that, sorry. Maybe consider an Airbnb with a garage?

I'm arriving at the airport in Vancouver on Aug 1st. We'll be driving and we're heading to the Sunshine Coast and beyond. Looking at a map, the most direct route through Vancouver is the 99 (Granville St). But it looks like it won't be fast. Is there a quicker/better way to bypass the city and get to Horseshoe Bay? Thanks, much appreciated Tom

Hi Tom. Yeah, you may be faster taking SE Marine along the south edge of the city to Highway 1, and circling Vancouver on the highway. Depends on traffic, though.

I use a fold up wheelchair, which my kind husband pushes, to get around and visit museums. Can I take this fold-up wheelchair (non motorized) onto the public transportation buses? Thank you for your thoughts!

Hi Nikki. Yes, all buses have ramps for wheelchairs. I see them used regularly.

We’ll be leaving our car at the Rocky Mountaineer train station, so we need transportation from there to the Hampton Inn on Robson Street. What’s the best way to do this? Thanks!

Really helpful guide, thank you for putting this together!

Super helpful guide. Thanks so much.

My wife and I are doing four nights in Vancouver in August and then three in Victoria. Do we need reservations in advance for the ferry? we do NOT have a vehicle on this trip. Thanks Frank Surette Washington, DC

Hi Frank. If you're walking on, you don't need reservations for the ferry. Enjoy!

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Vancouver Travel Guide 2024

Updated : March 21, 2024

AAA Travel Editors

Table of contents, getting into vancouver, getting around vancouver, best time to visit vancouver, top things to do in vancouver, best hotels in vancouver, best restaurants in vancouver, vancouver safety tips.

• Planning Your Trip to Vancouver

Vancouver, BC is a bustling, modern city set between the vast Pacific Ocean and the towering North Shore Mountains. This unique setting makes Vancouver an exceptional destination for all types of travelers, from seasoned backpackers and adventurers to families wanting to explore an artful city with occasional outdoor outings. In short: Vancouver offers the best of Canada in one easy-to-navigate city.

Vancouver is constantly growing and you can enjoy restaurants that borrow from culinary traditions around the world along with a great combination of historical neighborhoods and modern skyscrapers. Visit local museums and outdoor parks to experience the city’s unique culture, or spend a night on the town with wine tastings, pub crawls along cobblestone streets and local theater events. Of course, no trip to Vancouver is complete without enjoying its breathtaking nature and there are activities available for both serious hikers and those just looking for a quick view.

Whether you wish to set sail and whale watch near glaciers or enjoy the mountainous and modern skyline from a rooftop bar, this guide to visiting Vancouver will help you explore the best things to do on your next Canadian adventure.

Pacific Standard Time

The Canadian Dollar

Vancouver International Airport

The Vancouver International Airport (YVR) is only 10 miles away from downtown and there are a number of ways to cheaply and comfortably reach your destination from all the terminals:

• The SkyTrain takes less than 30 minutes to reach downtown and it’s one of the most affordable options available for travelers (Roughly $5 per ticket.)

• Taxis average at around $40 and while generally very quick, may take longer than the SkyRail if traffic is heavy.

• Shuttles are available as well and may be free depending on your airline and hotel destination.

• Rental cars via Hertz and other brands are also available at YVR, making traveling convenient for any budget.

Vancouver is a major hub for cruises of all sizes that arrive from Washington, Alaska, plus other North American and international ports. While American travelers will not need a visa to enter Canada, note that some international visitors may be required to apply for a visa in advance, regardless of whether they enter by air, sea, or land.

If you’re in Vancouver and want to explore the incredible waters and nearby coastal regions, there are also many day-trips or even hour-long cruises available that are perfect for viewing the glaciers, whale watching, or traveling further towards Alaska for a great outdoor adventure.

For visitors coming into Vancouver from the United States, there are 13 land border crossings along Washington State which provide the easiest access when driving into the city.

The most common border crossings include:

• Peace Arch

• Blaine Surrey

• Lynden Aldengrove

• Sumas Huntingdon

Vancouver has multiple districts and vast parks to explore on foot, although getting from one end of the city to the other will require other forms of transportation. Plus, with many nearby national parks and outdoor wonders to explore, it's worth thinking about your transportation ahead of time so you never miss a bit. This quick Vancouver travel guide on transportation will help you plan your trip so you can easily explore everything you want on your next vacation.

Public Transit

Vancouver’s buses are a great transportation option, providing fast, clean and comfortable service throughout the city. The buses run from 5 a.m. until 1 a.m. and they can quickly get through downtown towards main attractions like Stanley Park, among other essential parks and destinations. While many routes are direct, you may occasionally have to change lines when connecting from within the city towards the marina.

The SkyTrain is another option similar to the bus, although it provides a faster service with fewer stops. However, it can be a great way to quickly cross greater distances without a car.

Biking and Walking

Vancouver is a fantastic city to walk in and you can walk endlessly in the downtown area and along the bay for great views and exciting entertainment opportunities at any hour.

If you wish to travel a greater distance, you can also rent a bicycle and enjoy Vancouver’s extensive bike baths and green lines along the road for safe and efficient cycling. Be cautious of the weather, however, as cold weather or rain may make cycling difficult in certain seasons.

Vancouver has a number of ride-share options, including popular international brands like Uber and Lyft, along with more local apps, making it a great option for quick and convenient transportation throughout the city.

However, for longer-distance drives, such as to nearby national parks, it may be worth renting a car as ridesharing may be expensive or unavailable further into the wilderness.

Rental Car via Hertz

• Address: 3880 Grant McConachie Way, Vancouver, BC V7B 1Y7

Save time and money on your Vancouver vacation by renting a car from Hertz at the Vancouver International Airport. Choose from a wide range of models to fit your style and budget and enjoy quick and easy access to your hotel and all the city’s greatest attractions.

You can also utilize AAA and Hertz at other car rental locations throughout the city and surrounding areas.

Vancouver is beautiful in any season, but each season may provide something unique and exciting to help enhance your vacation.

September and October are often less crowded than the warm summer months, yet the weather is still sunny and ideal for walking and long days of sightseeing. While summer is certainly warmer, it will be much more crowded as it’s considered peak tourism season.

Starting in November, Vancouver experiences a lot of rain which usually lasts until March. During this time, there may also be occasional snowfall within the city, which can cause traffic congestion and mild travel issues. The surrounding mountainous regions will likely have a lot of snow during winter as well, making travel to the nearby parks more difficult.

From March to May, you can enjoy a milder climate with fewer crowds, which makes it a great time for cruises and general travel and potentially less expensive hotel stays as well.

From mid-May to August, you’ll experience the warmest months but also the most crowds and highest hotel prices.

From exceptional outdoor excursions to historical and modern metropolitan entertainment, here are some great things to do in Vancouver on your next vacation.

Whale Watching Boat Tour

Enjoy a three-hour whale watching tour to see Orcas, Humpback Whales and other exciting marine life in this scenic tour. While three hours is the most common tour duration, there are shorter and longer cruises available depending on your preferences.

Enjoy a Night in Downtown Vancouver

Along Granville Street in downtown Vancouver, you can walk among endless pubs, nightclubs and exciting new restaurants covered with bright neon lights. Plus, there are many historical side streets to get lost in and explore at any hour.

Families can also enjoy a night walk and watch as the city transforms into a colorful and bustling destination. However, couples and adult groups will likely want to stay out until later to enjoy the energetic buzz of nighttime Vancouver.

Granville Island Public Market

• Address: 1689 Johnston St., Vancouver, BC V6H 3R9

The Granville Island Public Market is right along the water and it’s a large complex that features over 50 unique restaurants and shopfronts to explore. From handmade pastries to delectable meals served to-go, along with everything from coffee to local wines and spirits, you can experience the best of Vancouver’s cuisine in one scenic and unforgettable location. There are many tables available as well, both indoors and outside along the marina.

This place is great for couples and families with kids of all ages. After your meal, make sure to walk around the harbor for incredible views of the city and bay.

VanDusen Botanical Garden

• Address: 5251 Oak St., Vancouver, BC V6M 4H1

The VanDusen Botanical Garden is great for families and couples and it features multiple colorful sub-gardens that you can walk around in for hours. Each garden is carefully cultivated and you can view gorgeous rose gardens, rows of cherry trees, magnolias and many other bright seasonal offerings.

Stanley Park

• Address: 7500 Stanley Park Dr., Vancouver BC V65 1Z4

Stanley Park is a vast, 400-hectare rainforest that features incredible trails, lakes and views of both the pristine bay and modern Vancouver. You could easily spend an entire day here hiking, riding your bike, or lounging among the gorgeous native fauna. You could also pass through relatively quickly by sticking to the main trails near the waterfront, making this a great place for those wanting a scenic view along with those looking to break a sweat.

There are also guided tours available if you wish to learn more about the region or get taken to a specific point of interest.

Vancouver Art Gallery

• Address: 750 Hornby St., Vancouver, BC V6Z 2H7

The Vancouver Art Gallery is one of Canada’s largest collections of historical art and this outstanding museum features paintings from the 20th century along with modern art and rotating exhibitions.

This is a great place for those interested in history, art and local culture and it's suitable for all ages.

From luxurious to budget-friendly, Vancouver has a wide range of hotels available for your next vacation. Let’s look at some different options to help you get started.

The Westin Bayshore Vancouver

• Address: 1601 Bayshore Dr, Vancouver, BC V65 2V4
• Rates: From $235
• Amenities: Free onsite parking and valet, two restaurants, full bar, sauna, onsite peninsula marina, eco certification, indoor and outdoor heated pools, pet friendly in certain rooms

The Westin Bayshore Vancouver is a AAA Four Diamond designated luxurious and modern hotel right on Vancouver’s idyllic peninsula. With stunning views in every room, either of the bay or the surrounding skyline and mountains, you’ll feel pampered with the finest amenities and stylish comfort.

Great for couples, groups and solo travelers who desire luxury during their vacation.

Hilton Vancouver Downtown

• Address: 433 Robson St, Vancouver, BC, V6B 6L9
• Rates: From $274
• Amenities: Paid onsite parking and valet, restaurant, full bar, sauna, heated outdoor pool, pet friendly in certain rooms, valet laundry, eco certification

With an amazing downtown location, the AAA Three Diamond designated Hilton Vancouver Downtown allows you to enjoy the best of the city while living in modern luxury.

The airy rooms and decor make each room a pleasure to relax in and the views of the surrounding city are breathtaking at any hour.

Great for couples, those who wish to explore the city on a whim and families with children of all ages.

Residence Inn by Marriott Vancouver Downtown

• Address: 1234 Hornby St, Vancouver, BC, V6Z 1W2
• Rates: $157
• Amenities: On-site for a fee, heated indoor pool, valet and coin laundry, close to downtown, eco certification

The Residence Inn by Marriott Vancouver Downtown is a AAA Three Diamond designated great option for families and couples who desire modern comfort without a premium price tag. Even with a lower price than other downtown hotels, the Residence Inn still provides spacious, comfortable and welcoming rooms that make you feel right at home.

Plus, the location makes exploring downtown on foot very simple and you’re a close drive to many of the city’s best attractions.

Great for couples, families with children and those looking for a comfortable, modern hotel at a reasonable price.

Vancouver has great dining options for all budgets and tastes and to help make your trip unforgettable, here are some must-visit places suitable for any occasion.

Blue Water Cafe + Raw Bar

• Address: 1095 Hamilton St, Vancouver, BC V6B 5T4
• Type: Seafood
• Price: $$$$

Situated in a cozy, historical warehouse, the Blue Water Cafe + Raw Bar holds a AAA Four Diamond designation and is one of Vancouver's highest-rated restaurants for fresh caught seafood, oysters and premium steaks.

Whether you want a classic salmon steak or beef ribeye, or a more interesting and unique presentation of delectable oysters and raw shellfish, you’re guaranteed to have an exceptional meal. Plus, they have a fantastic wine and cocktail menu to make your night complete.

Reservations are highly recommended.

• Address: 1038 Canada Place, Vancouver, BC, V6C 0B9
• Type: Canadian, Pacific Northwest

Botanist is a trendy and beautifully decorated restaurant with a AAA Four Diamond designation that serves premium and artful meals in a relaxing setting. Try the local halibut, or an expertly prepared lamb rack, along with a delectable wine selection. The expert chefs are also visible at all times, making it an immersive and unforgettable experience.

Café Medina

• Address: 780 Richards St, Vancouver, BC V6B 3A4
• Type: Canadian, Breakfast

Café Medina is one of Vancouver’s best spots for all-day breakfast. Enjoy Belgian waffles, home-style potatoes, plus a wide variety of omelets, side meats and fresh pastries. Along with great coffee and a cozy setting, this is a great spot for families and couples looking to start the day off right.

Rogue Kitchen and Wetbar

• Address: 602 Broadway, Vancouver, BC, V5Z 1G1
• Type: Canadian, Pub Food

Rogue Kitchen and Wetbar is a casual yet cozy brewery that offers over 30 beers on tap along with fantastic cocktails and spirits. Plus, they serve up great burgers, pastas and salads among other pub-style offerings.

This is a great place to enjoy a casual dinner and drinks before hitting the town.

Reservations are recommended on weekends and holidays.

Vancouver is overall a very safe city for travelers of all ages, although it’s important to take proper precautions when hiking or venturing into nearby parks and trails.

For personal safety within the city, you should exercise standard precautions as you would in any other major city. While the overall crime rate is very low, make sure not to leave valuables visible in your car when away and take general safety precautions when walking in unfamiliar areas at night. Be aware of your surroundings and stay in well-lit areas of the city later in the evening.

Weather and Outdoor Safety

Vancouver can get quite cold in the autumn and winter and it’s important to have proper clothing while staying in the city. This includes:

• A winter jacket

• Non-slip winter boots

• Beanie or warm hat

All of these standard winter items can keep you warm and healthy during your stay.

When hiking, you may wish to bring the following items since the weather can change quickly on mountainous trails:

• Thermal pants

• Water-resistant clothing or ponchos

• Extra water and food

If hiking further outside the city limits, such as in the surrounding mountains and wilderness, please take proper precautions since these areas are often untamed and serious situations may arise.

Some safety tips in the wilderness to consider include:

• The presence of black bears and grizzly bears in certain regions. Do not engage with wildlife and talk to local rangers about whether there has been any recent bear activity. Some parks may also allow the use of bear mace if necessary.

• Tell people you know and the local rangers where you’re hiking and stay on the trail at all times.

• Expect there to be limited or no cell reception when hiking in the wilderness.

• Bring extra water and food.

• Bring a paper map to help you stay on the trail.

• If traveling far, bring a signaling device, such as a whistle, to make yourself known if lost.

Planning Your Trip to Vancouver 

When thinking of the best time to visit Vancouver it’s important to know that AAA members can access perks and take advances for vacation planning such as getting the best discounts on hotels , rental cars and entertainment tickets. 

AAA Travel Editors are AAA Travel Experts.

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Is Vancouver Island Worth Visiting? 15 Reasons to visit!

Are you wondering if Vancouver Island is worth visiting? I asked Chanelle from Chasing Chanelle to answer this question for me.

Chanelle is a Canadian-based blogger who loves the West Coast and has put together her top reasons to visit Vancouver Island. 

Is Vancouver Island Worth Visiting?

To answer this question, YES, Vancouver Island is definitely worth visiting!

This beautiful island is located southwest of mainland British Columbia, in the midst of the Pacific Ocean. With a mix of picturesque cities, remote beaches, lush rainforests, and snow-capped mountains, there is something for everyone here. 

The diverse natural beauty of the island makes it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with plenty of hiking, camping, and water sports. Plus, it’s a really family-friendly destination.

And don’t worry if you’re more of an urban traveler, with a rich history and culture, and as the home of BC’s capital city, there is also plenty for you to do here. 

15 Best Reasons to Visit Vancouver Island

To help you decide if Vancouver Island is worth visiting, here are the top 15 reasons to visit. Hopefully, some of these will inspire you to add it to your list of future travel destinations!

1. Pacific Rim National Park 

At the top of the list, there is Pacific Rim National Park. This is Canada’s oldest National Park Reserve and is protected by UNESCO. 

Spanning nearly 200 square miles on Vancouver Island’s west coast, Pacific Rim National Park is one of the best places in the world to explore kilometers of unspoiled sandy beaches, temperate rainforest, and dramatic coastal landscapes.

2. Easy access from Mainland Canada and the USA

Although many islands can be difficult to reach, Vancouver Island is actually really close to both mainland Canada and the USA, making it easy to get to.

The best way to travel to Vancouver Island is by ferry to Nanaimo or Victoria, from Vancouver or Seattle.

The ferry ride can be as short as 1.5 hours (depending on the route you’re taking). This is a great option as you can bring your car with you, making it easy to explore as much of the island as possible

It’s also possible to fly to Vancouver Island from mainland Canada, or Seattle. The island’s biggest airport is Victoria International Airport (YYJ). There are also several smaller airports located in communities around the island, which are served by major airlines.

Because Vancouver Island is so easy to get to from the mainland, if you’re short of time it’s a great place to visit for a weekend getaway, or even just for the day!

Check Ferry Availability Here

3. Whale Watching

Whale watching is one of the best things to do when at Vancouver Island, with some tour operators even guaranteeing sightings! 

You are most likely to see orcas (also known as killer whales), humpback whales, and Pacific grey whales making their way through the island’s waters.

There are also over 500 resident whales in the area, so they can be sighted at any time of year.

If you haven’t been whale watching before, this should definitely be added to your list of things to try, as it’s a truly special experience.

Click to Book a Whale Watching Experience!

4. The Beautiful Coastline 

If Vancouver Island is known for one thing, it has to be its stunning coastline. As Canada’s premier beach destination, not only will you find beautiful sandy beaches here, but also rugged shores, interesting marine life, and unique landscapes to explore.

As the island is surrounded by the Pacific Ocean, the water is cold! But this doesn’t deter beachgoers every summer from swimming, surfing, and exploring the beach. 

Fishing and beachcombing are also popular activities on Vancouver Island. There is an abundance of marine life, shells, and crustaceans that line the shores, and anemones and starfish can be spotted in the many tidal pools.

Read more about PNW Beaches at Olympic National Park

Located at the northern tip of Pacific Rim National Park, Tofino is a must-visit destination on Vancouver Island.

This small town has something for everyone – from family-friendly campsites to luxury resorts, and everything in between. 

Tofino is famous for being the surf capital of Canada, with miles of sandy beaches and world-class waves year-round.

But this isn’t the only thing to do here. Tofino is also known for whale-watching, hot springs, camping, hiking, storm-watching, and excellent local food. 

Plus, the area is a great place to base yourself for day trips into Pacific Rim National Park.

Click here for the best vacation rentals in Tofino

6. Amazing Hiking

When you think of hiking in Canada, summiting peaks in Banff or Jasper probably comes to mind. However, some of the PNW’s best hiking can actually be found on Vancouver Island.

What makes hiking here so spectacular is the dramatic landscapes and varied terrain. From technical coastal hikes to mountain summits, there is something here for every type of hiker.  

In particular, the island is home to one of the world’s most famous multi-day hikes – the iconic West Coast Trail .

Nestled in the beautiful Pacific Rim National Park, this 47-mile hike is unlike any other on the planet. With a mix of beach and forest walking, boulder fields, mud, ladders, and cable cars, the diversity of the terrain and unspoiled views make this a once-in-a-lifetime hike. 

7. Beach Camping

Vancouver Island is one of the most popular destinations in Canada for camping. And what makes it so popular is the abundance of beach camping opportunities! 

There are two ways to try beach camping on Vancouver Island: either by completing one of the island’s several multi-day coastal hikes; or by booking a site at one of the many beachside campgrounds. 

Staying at a beachside campground is a great option for your next family vacation. There is nothing quite like sleeping by the ocean, having bonfires on the beach, and watching the sunset over the waves. Plus, you will get to maximize your time enjoying and exploring the beach each day.

Some of the best places for beach camping on Vancouver Island include Pachena Bay (located inside Pacific Rim National Park), Rathtrevor Beach Provincial Park, and Cox Bay Beach near Tofino.

Search for Camp Sites on Vancouver Island

8. Wildlife Viewing

Vancouver Island has some of the best wildlife viewing opportunities in all of Canada.

The island is home to an array of land animals and birds including grizzly and black bears, cougars, grey wolves, black-tailed deer, and bald eagles, as well as tons of marine life such as whales, sea lions, otters, dolphins, fish and small marine animals. 

When exploring the natural surroundings on Vancouver Island, if you exercise patience and caution, it’s possible to spot some of these animals in the wild, or at least see traces of them. 

To increase your chances of seeing wildlife, you can hire a guide or go on a wildlife viewing tour. In the summer months, you can even take a grizzly bear tour to see them catching salmon and feeding along the shore!

9. It’s a Family Friendly Destination

As you’ve probably gathered by now, Vancouver Island is a very family-friendly destination.

Between camping, beachcombing, exploring tidal pools, wildlife spotting, swimming, and much more, this is not a place where kids will get bored! And that is exactly what keeps families coming back year after year.

10. Port Hardy

Most visitors to Vancouver Island will spend their time in the middle and southern parts of the island. However, if you’re looking for a more remote and adventurous vacation, then Port Hardy is for you.

Located near the northern tip of Vancouver Island, Port Hardy is a small community, surrounded by secluded beaches, a rugged coastline, and some of the island’s best wildlife viewing opportunities. 

Port Hardy is an adventure seeker’s dream.  Here you can partake in world-class fishing, scuba diving, boating, and hiking, all within a pristine and untouched environment.

11. BC’s Capital City – Victoria

If outdoor activities aren’t your thing, Vancouver Island is still worth a visit. In particular, for the beautiful and historic city of Victoria.

Victoria is the capital of British Columbia and the largest city on the island. It’s easy to get here by air or ferry, and is a great destination for a weekend break, or even a day trip!

With a rich British history, Victoria is filled with British culture and some of Canada’s most beautiful architecture.

It’s also a center for art, food, and culture. In the city, you will find horse-drawn carriages, double-decker buses, tearooms, colorful gardens, and a stunning harbor. 

In addition to site seeing, you can visit the Royal BC Museum, see colorful houseboats and eat fresh seafood at the fisherman’s wharf, and even take a seaplane tour!

Click Here to See the Best Tours in Victoria

12. Cowichan Valley Wine Country

When we say that Vancouver Island has it all, it really does!

On top of the stunning coastline, old-growth forests, and many mountains, Vancouver Island also has a beautiful wine region, complete with Canada’s only maritime Mediterranean climate.

There are several winemaking areas on the island, but Cowichan Valley, in particular, is worth a visit.

It is home to some of Canada’s best wineries, as well as an abundance of distilleries, cideries, and local farms producing artisanal food. 

The area is also known for hosting several of the country’s best multi-day festivals, where you can enjoy live performances from international acts, sample local produce, camp, dance, and attend workshops.

13. It’s a year-round destination

Although you might only think of Vancouver Island for summer vacations, it’s actually a year-round destination with some amazing winter activities. There are two ski resorts on the island.

And, as the island has Canada’s mildest winter weather, a lot of outdoor activities, such as hiking and surfing, can continue in the colder months. 

One of Vancouver Island’s most popular winter activities is storm-watching. From November to February, a lot of hotels even offer winter storm-watching packages.

If you prefer to stay inside in the warmth, there are also plenty of indoor activities on the island. There is no shortage of museums, boutique shops, top restaurants, and spas (to name a few).

14. Mt Washington Alpine Resort

If you love skiing or snowboarding but want a more cost-effective and family-friendly option than many other resorts, Mt Washington Alpine Resort is for you.

Mt Washington is the island’s premier ski resort and actually has some of the most consistent snow in Canada.

Although it’s not as big as some of the better-known Canadian resorts, what Mount Washington lacks in terrain, it makes up for with tons of snow. 

The ski area has a lot of beginner runs, perfect for those learning to ski, in addition to more advanced terrain.

And lift passes at Mount Washington are priced around 15% cheaper than more high-profile resorts like Whistler Blackcomb. 

15. Unique Experiences for Everyone

Vancouver Island is a true adventure seeker’s playground. However, you don’t have to be a seasoned explorer to try an array of unique and fun experiences available on the island. 

Not only are there plenty of activities suitable for all ages and skill levels; but there are also tons of bucket-list-worthy things to do on the island.

From whale-watching or seeing grizzly bears in the wild to landing on water in a seaplane, there is something exciting for everyone to try here!

Visiting Vancouver Island FAQs

Now that you know why Vancouver Island is worth visiting, here are a few more FAQs to help you plan your trip to this beautiful island.

What is so special about Vancouver Island?

Vancouver Island has it all! The island’s stunning natural landscapes, including sandy beaches, temperate rainforests, and tall mountains, make it one of the most unique and special places in Canada.

And its mild climate means the natural beauty of the island can be enjoyed all year round. 

What is the best Month to Visit Vancouver Island? 

This really depends on what you’re looking to do. For a summer vacation, August is considered the best time to visit, since it is the warmest month, but anytime from June to September is beautiful.

For winter activities, January and February are the best time.

Do You Need a Car to Travel the Island? 

No, but traveling by car is the easiest way to get around the island. If you don’t have a car, luckily there are various bus services that connect most cities and towns on the island. 

Can you drive from Vancouver to Vancouver Island?

Technically, yes! If driving, you can get the ferry with your car from Vancouver to Victoria or Nanaimo on Vancouver Island.

How Long is The Ferry Ride to Vancouver Island? 

The ferry from mainland Canada to Vancouver Island takes between 1:35 to 2 hours, and from Seattle in Washington State, takes 2 hours and 45 minutes.  

How Many Days Do You Need on Vancouver Island? 

If you want to explore different parts of Vancouver Island, you will need at least 7 days, but the more time the better.

If you’re short on time, you can also visit Vancouver Island for just a weekend or day trip. However, you will be limited to what you can see during your visit.

How Can You Spend One Day on Vancouver Island? 

The best way to spend one day on Vancouver Island is to get the ferry to Victoria or Nanaimo early in the morning.

You can then spend the day exploring the city, before returning by ferry in the evening.

There are also a number of tours you can fit into a day trip to the island, such as whale-watching. 

Can You Walk Around Vancouver Island? 

You can’t walk around Vancouver Island, but you can walk the Vancouver Island Trail (VIT), a 500-mile hike that covers the length of the island. This will be quite a hike and it generally takes around 2 months to complete.

How Long Does It Take to Drive Around the Island? 

The island has a limited road system, so you can’t actually drive around the island. An exception to this is a 160-mile loop around the southern part of the island.

Called the Pacific Marine Circle Route, this loop takes around 5 hours to drive.

Although it’s better to do the drive over a couple of days so you can take your time to enjoy the beautiful stops along the way. 

You can also drive from Victoria at the bottom of Vancouver Island, to Port Hardy at the top. This takes around 6 hours, covering 285 miles. 

What is The Most Beautiful Part of Vancouver Island? 

The west coast of Vancouver Island is generally considered the most beautiful part, with breathtaking coastal scenery and old-growth forests.

This is where you will find Pacific Rim National Park and pristine beach destinations like Nanaimo. 

Conclusion: Is Vancouver Island Worth Visiting?

We hope we’ve answered your questions about whether you should visit Vancouver Island. 

With some of the most beautiful landscapes in Canada and unique activities, you’ll never get bored on Vancouver Island.

As a great all-year-round destination for adventurers, families, and city travelers, there is something on the island for everyone.

Therefore, we definitely think Vancouver Island is worth visiting!

Trip Planning Resources

These are companies I use and trust when planning all of our trips. I only recommend companies I personally use and trust.

Flight Deals: Expedia or WayAway

Airport Parking: Airport Parking Reservations

Rental Cars: Discover Cars

Ferry Services: Direct Ferries

Hotel Booking: Hotels.com , Trivago

Things to do: Viator , or Get your Guide ,

Travel Insurance: Travel Insurance Master

Theme Park Tickets: Getaway Today (use code FlipFlops10 for a discount)

Free Travel Planning Services: Flannels or FlipFlops Travel

If you find my content helpful, booking through the links above helps support my blog at no additional cost to you. Thank you for your support.

Chanelle Rosenbaum

Chanelle is a Canadian-based blogger who loves the West Coast. She has a passion for sharing her love of the area with others.

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Getting around Vancouver

Planning to travel in Vancouver? Whether you’re a visitor or a resident, let this guide help you make the most of your Vancouver experience. Travel from the airport to a hotel using Uber and discover popular routes and destinations. Depending on your city, you can even use the app to get around with public transport, bikes or scooters, and more.

Plus, check out Uber rates for riders and drivers and learn how to use Uber to get paid to drive or deliver in Vancouver.

Reserve car service in Vancouver with Uber

Arrange your car service needs in advance with Uber in Vancouver. Request a ride up to 30 days ahead, whether you need transportation to the airport, you have plans to visit a restaurant, or you’re going somewhere else.

Ride Sharing in Vancouver

Getting around Vancouver without a car is easy with Uber. Find places to visit in the area, then request a ride on any day and at any time of the week. You can request a ride in real-time or request a ride in advance so your ride is ready when you are. Whether you’re traveling in a group or alone, you can use the app to find a ride option for your needs.

Open the Uber app and enter your destination to begin exploring Vancouver.

Choose the best ways to get around Vancouver

Taxi in vancouver.

Consider Uber as an alternative to taxis when getting around Vancouver. With Uber, you can trade flagging down cabs for requesting rides on demand, no matter the time of day. Request a ride from an airport to a hotel, head to a restaurant, or visit another place. The choice is yours. Open the app and enter a destination to get started.

Public transport in Vancouver

Getting around with public transport is an affordable way to travel. Depending on the area, you can view nearby bus or subway routes with Uber Transit to help plan your travels. Open the app to see if Uber Transit is available in your neighborhood or visit popular places in Vancouver by ridesharing with Uber.

Bike rentals in Vancouver

Biking is an eco-friendly way to get around the heart of a city. In select cities, you can find and ride electric bikes with Uber. Open the app to see if bikes are available in Vancouver. If bikes are available in Vancouver, remember to wear a helmet and follow traffic laws while riding.

Uber does not tolerate the use of alcohol or drugs by drivers using the Uber app. If you believe your driver may be under the influence of drugs or alcohol, please have the driver end the trip immediately.

Commercial vehicles may be subject to additional state government taxes, which would be over and above the toll.

Prices are shown in Canadian dollars.

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Is it safe to visit Mexico? What Canadians must know about the updated 2024 travel advisory

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It might be the third-most-visited destination for Canadians after the United States, but Mexico isn't considered a low-risk country for travellers. 

The Canadian government continues to advise tourists to exercise a high degree of caution when visiting Mexico, highlighting the country's "high levels of criminal activity and kidnapping." 

In November 2023, the United Nations stated that over 100,000 people are  currently missing in Mexico , characterizing the mass disappearances as "alarming," according to Reuters.

In December 2023, the Mexican government released the findings of their Disappeared Persons Search Strategy, revealing the scope of missing people in the country. However, the document "ambiguously" categorized roughly 80,000 individuals "due to the lack of sufficient data ," said Amnesty International. 

Other violent crimes, including armed burglaries and physical and sexual assault, are common in many places. Many robberies happen at airports, currency exchange bureaus, or ATMs.

Petty theft, including purse and bag snatching, is also common, particularly in popular tourist areas or during crowded festivals or protests.

Updated Mexico travel advisory for Canada in 2024

Canadian travellers do not require a visa to visit Mexico but their passport must be valid for their stay in the country. It is always a good idea to ensure your passport is valid for six months after you return home from travel. If you become ill or injured while in your destination, you may not be able to travel home. Having a buffer for your travel document before it expires ensures you won't have trouble coming home. 

In 2022, Canada and its neighbours south of the border issued updated  advisories for parts of Mexico  due to violent crime, including homicide, kidnapping, carjacking, and robbery. 

There continue to be high rates of these types of crime in popular tourist destinations such as the Mayan Riviera (Cancún, Playa del Carmen, Puerto Morelos, and Tulum), and Acapulco. Criminal groups and drug cartels are also present in tourist areas and bystanders can get caught in crossfire.

Disputes between taxi and ridesharing application drivers may occur in these popular tourist destinations. Drivers generally don't target tourists but you "be caught up in these incidents and harassed or injured."

In Mexico City, government-authorized taxis have licence plates starting with “A” or “B." Other taxis at stands will have their company's logo and the plate number stamped on the side of the car. Official taxis in Mexico City are pink and white. Users can validate the pink and white taxis on the CDMX app.

Buses are relatively safe in the capital city but you should use VIP or executive class transportation when travelling to other cities.

Avoid all travel to the Guerrero State 

Canada continues to advise against any travel to the Guerrero State due to the aftermath of  Hurricane Otis . The area has grappled with increased criminal and gang activity following the natural disaster. 

The cities of Ixtapa/Zihuatanejo and Taxco are excluded from the advisory. 

Avoid non-essential travel to these areas in Mexico

The Canadian government warns against non-essential travel to the following areas due to high levels of violence of violence and organized crime

• all Chihuahua
• all Colima, except the city of Manzanillo
• all Coahuila, except the southern part of the state at and below the Saltillo-Torreón highway corridor
• all Durango, except Durango City
• Highway 45 between León and Irapuato
• the area south of and including Highway 45D between Irapuato and Celaya
• all Michoacán, except the cities of Morelia and Patzcuaro
• the Lagunas de Zempoala National Park
• the municipality of Xoxocotla
• the area within 20 km of the border with Sinaloa and Durango
• the city of Tepic
• all Nuevo León, except the city of Monterrey
• all Sinaloa, except the cities of Los Mochis and Mazatlán
• all Sonora, except the cities of Hermosillo and Guaymas/San Carlos and Puerto Peñasco
• all Tamaulipas
• all Zacatecas

What happens if you are caught committing a crime in Mexico?

If you are caught committing a crime, even a "minor" one such as smoking outside a public building or public urination, you could be detained. 

Penalties for breaking the law in Mexico can be more severe than in Canada. Travellers can be held in pre-trial detention for 72 hours before a trial.

Paying a fine may secure an early release from detention but is not guaranteed.

Smoking is prohibited in all public places except for clearly marked designated smoking areas. Some places tourists can no longer smoke include beaches, parks, hotels, and restaurants. If you are caught  smoking in public,  you may be fined.

What to do if you need help while you are in Mexico 

In case of an emergency in Mexico, dial 911. 

Contact roadside assistance if you run into an issue on a highway. The Angeles Verdes is a highway patrol service that provides free assistance on all major toll highways from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. local time. 

To contact the Angeles Verdes,  download their App  on your mobile device. In an emergency, dial 078 or 800 006 8839 (toll-free in Mexico) to reach them.

Canadians in need of emergency consular assistance should contact Global Affairs Canada's Emergency Watch and Response Centre by calling 001-800-514-0129 (toll-free from Mexico only), +1 613 996 8885, by text message at +1 613-686-3658, via WhatsApp at +1 613-909-8881, via Telegram at Canada Emergency Abroad or by  e-mail . 

Visit a  travel medical clinic  before you book a ticket from Vancouver International Airport (YVR). The healthcare professionals will inform you about what vaccinations you require and what you can expect on your trip. There are risks of contracting several viruses spread by mosquitoes including dengue, Zika, and chikungunya.

Travellers should always check the latest government advisory before booking a ticket from Vancouver to Mexico. They should also purchase a  comprehensive travel insurance policy  when they book their ticket, which will cover the cost of your ticket in case you can't leave due to an unforeseeable medical or other emergency reason. It will also cover incidents such as missed connections, baggage interruption and loss, and more. 

Canadians should always register trips they take  online  before they leave so that the government can contact them in an emergency.

Find more information about exciting destinations in B.C. and across the globe, as well as travel deals and tips, by signing up for  V.I.A.'s weekly travel newsletter The Wanderer . Since travel deals can sell out, find out the day they are posted by signing up for our  daily Travel Deals newsletter.

Want to learn more about a specific destination or have a travel concern or idea you would like V.I.A. to write about? Email us at elana@vancouverisawesome. Send us stories about recent holidays that you've been on, or if you have any tips you think our readers should know about. 

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